Texas expected to pursue Japanese phenom Munetaka Murakami, a power-hitting force poised to reshape MLB's landscape.
The posting of Japanese superstar Munetaka Murakami has sent waves across Major League Baseball, and one team quickly drawing attention in the sweepstakes is the Texas Rangers. According to multiple reports, they are among the clubs interested in landing the 25-year-old power hitter from the Tokyo Yakult Swallows.
Murakami, one of the most prolific hitters to come out of Japan in recent years, was officially posted today, opening a 45-day window for MLB teams to negotiate a deal. The left-handed slugger’s rare combination of power and plate discipline makes him one of the most coveted bats available this offseason. Over eight NPB seasons, Murakami has launched 246 home runs in 892 games, highlighted by his historic 56-homer campaign in 2022, which broke Sadaharu Oh’s 58-year-old record for the most home runs in a single season by a Japanese-born player.
For Texas, pursuing Murakami would make sense both competitively and financially. The Rangers have demonstrated an apparent willingness to spend big in recent offseasons, locking up players like Corey Seager, Marcus Semien, and Jacob deGrom to long-term deals. Although the club has faced challenges in maintaining postseason consistency since its 2023 championship run, ownership remains committed to building a sustainable contender, positioning Texas to be aggressive once again in the international market.
The Rangers’ current lineup could also provide a natural fit for Murakami. While Josh Jung remains the club’s long-term answer at third base, Murakami’s versatility would give manager Skip Schumaker multiple lineup configurations. The Japanese star can play first base—where Jake Burger saw time last season—or slot in as a designated hitter, a spot that Joc Pederson occupied but struggled to produce in throughout much of 2025. Murakami’s arrival would immediately add power and balance to the middle of the order while offering flexibility across multiple positions.
In recent years, the Rangers have also invested heavily in strengthening their international scouting and development presence, signaling a commitment to identifying and acquiring global talent. Signing Murakami would not only bolster the lineup but also enhance the franchise’s international visibility—an increasingly important factor in today’s MLB landscape.
Whether the Rangers can outbid big-market contenders such as the Dodgers, Red Sox, or Yankees remains to be seen. However, their combination of financial flexibility and willingness to make bold moves makes Texas a legitimate landing spot. One thing is certain: Murakami’s arrival in Major League Baseball will be one of the offseason’s most-watched storylines—and the Rangers appear ready to make their pitch.