CBS Sports MLB experts host weekly Batting Around roundtables during the offseason to discuss a wide range of baseball topics, including recent news, historical perspectives, and future outlooks. Last week, the focus was on Ketel Marte’s future, and this week, Munetaka Murakami’s potential landing spot is being analyzed.
Dane Perry believes the Seattle Mariners are the most likely team to sign Murakami, as they could strengthen their lineup after losing Jorge Polanco and show a need for a reliable third baseman. Seattle remains appealing to Japanese players despite fewer recent acquisitions from Japan.
Mike Axisa suggests Murakami might end up with the Miami Marlins, who have built a power-heavy roster under POBO Peter Bendix and have payroll flexibility in 2027. The Marlins’ interest in power hitters fits Murakami’s profile well. Axisa also identifies the Pittsburgh Pirates as a team in urgent need of Murakami’s power, noting their weak home run numbers over the last few years and the absence of clear successors at key positions.
RJ Anderson has reservations about Murakami’s market value, partly due to concerns about his strikeout rates in MLB. He speculates the Boston Red Sox might meet their power-hitting needs with Murakami. Like Axisa, Anderson also points to the Pirates as a team that could benefit significantly from Murakami’s potential despite the risk.
Matt Snyder sees the Cincinnati Reds as the team most in need of Murakami’s bat, given the advantage of their ballpark for power hitters and the lack of offensive punch in the lineup. While unsure who will secure Murakami’s services, Snyder leans toward the Reds but lacks confidence in that prediction.
Fan Take: Murakami’s next move could be a game-changer, especially for teams desperate to boost their offensive firepower. Baseball fans should watch closely, as his signing could shift team dynamics and influence playoff races in the coming years.
