HUBE BOOST: Yankees’ Aaron Boone Confirms The Stunning Return Of Their One-Time Valued Key Player

After missing out on Juan Soto, the New York Yankees appeared determined to construct a powerhouse that would dominate the AL East for years to come. They then signed Paul Goldschmidt to a one-year deal, filling the role that Anthony Rizzo had previously held. For a team focused on sustained success, opting for a short-term solution with a one-year player seems like a perplexing move.

Initially, it was expected that GM Brian Cashman might pursue Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and while that remains a possibility, recent reports suggest the Yankees are now targeting a Japanese superstar for a long-term solution.

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The Yankees are reportedly interested in signing Munetaka Murakami. According to Michael Kay, a Yankees reporter, the team’s management is aiming to land the Japanese slugger in the next offseason. Kay shared this on ESPN:

“You have to find creative ways to make yourself more appealing. You just have to. [Yoshinobu] Yamamoto chose the Los Angeles Dodgers. Now, [Roki] Sasaki rejected you. Now, the slugging first baseman Murakami will be a free agent at the end of this year.

 

Japanese star pitcher Roki Sasaki says he's signing with the Dodgers
Rōki Sasaki

I know the Yankees would love to sign him. That’s why they’re hesitant to commit to a long-term deal for a first baseman. Will they secure him, or will he end up on the West Coast?”

Murakami is one of the greatest sluggers in NPB history, becoming the youngest player to hit 200 home runs at 24. At 22, he made history in 2022 by becoming the youngest player in NPB to win the Triple Crown, with a phenomenal .318/.458/.711/1.168 slash line, 134 RBIs, and 56 home runs in just 487 at-bats. His 56 home runs that season set the NPB single-season record.

His on-base percentages are impressive, as he consistently draws a significant number of walks each year. While last season was a down year for the 24-year-old, Murakami still posted a .244/.379/.472/.851 slash line with 33 home runs in 500 at-bats.

Although his OPS and slugging percentages were career lows, his power remained evident, despite hitting a career-low 13 doubles and just one triple. He began the season in a slump but managed to recover.

Murakami has experienced slumps throughout his career, including during his historic 2022 season. His performance at the 2023 World Baseball Classic was memorable, even though it came during one of his slumps. Despite a few hits, they were crucial ones, like his two-run walk-off double that sent Japan to the finals against the U.S.

\He later impressed with a stunning swing against Merrill Kelly in the finals. Murakami will be 25 next season and currently plays third base for the Tokyo Yakult Swallows. However, his defense at third may not be strong enough for MLB, and he is likely better suited to first base.

While there are risks, including his recent slumps and the adjustment from NPB to MLB, Murakami’s power and eye at the plate offer plenty of potential for the Yankees. Additionally, his left-handed bat could be a great fit for Yankee Stadium’s short right-field porch.

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