REPORT: Dodgers Named Potential Fit for Japanese Slugger Coming to MLB This Offseason

Starting third baseman Max Muncy has a $10 million club option for next season.

One would think the Los Angeles Dodgers would pick that up considering the value of the deal in correspondence with Muncy’s production on the field and his value in the clubhouse.

At the same time, Muncy turns 35 later this month. Injuries have begun to pile up — and if this season has taught the Dodgers anything, getting younger across the board likely is the way to go moving into the future.

Longtime MLB pundit Jon Heyman made an appearance on the Walk-Off segment (courtesy of Bleacher Report). One topic he touched upon is the status of impending free agent Munetaka Murakami. The slugging infielder is reportedly heading over to Major League Baseball this offseason. At 25 years of age, he figures to be a hot commodity for teams in search of power.

A host of teams were mentioned in the hypothetical Murakami sweepstakes. Among them was the Dodgers. Heyman touched on the status with Muncy, and while he admitted that the veteran third baseman still has some productivity left in his bat, the Dodgers could opt to still make it work with both Murakami and Muncy in some form or fashion.

Murakami is one of the most prolific position players in Japan. The left-handed slugger already has 248 career homers in eight professional seasons dating back to when he was 18 years of age.

There are some questions about his ability from a defensive standpoint. Some view him more so as a first baseman/DH type. Having said that, he checks a lot of the boxes — from legitimate power to an impressive career OPS of .940. For good measure, he’s also a career .273 hitter.

Murakami will have to work on his bat-to-ball skills. He does strike out perhaps more than some would like. At the same time, the pop he possesses should result in a guy that hits 25-30 homers a year in a perfect world.

Related Posts

Hot Moment: Padres Manager Gives Clayton Kershaw His Flowers After Strong Performance for Dodgers

The San Diego Padres may dislike the Los Angeles Dodgers, but they’ll still give 18-year veteran Clayton Kershaw his flowers after an impressive performance in Friday’s series opener. “A…

Dodgers blank Padres 6–0, reclaim top spot in NL West Division

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – The Los Angeles Dodgers delivered a statement win, shutting out the San Diego Padres 6–0 to reclaim sole possession of first place…

Mets rookie McLean shows off arsenal, athleticism in impressive debut

NEW YORK (AP) – New York Mets manager Carlos Mendoza turned to bench coach John Gibbons as they watched pitcher Nolan McLean get into his first big league…

Nolan McLean sends heartfelt message to Mets fans after impressive win in his highly-anticipated MLB debut against the Seattle Mariners, expressing his gratitude for their unwavering support and enthusiasm throughout the game!

New York Mets rookie pitcher Nolan McLean shut down the Seattle Mariners in his Major League Baseball debut, much to the joy of Mets fans.

MLB insider floats nightmare Cody Bellinger scenario that would be a disaster for the New York Yankees, a situation they must avoid at all costs, considering the team’s current roster and playoff aspirations, as it could lead to a downward spiral in their performance and ultimately cost them a spot in the postseason.

New York Yankees star slugger Cody Bellinger has an opt-out clause in his contract. What’s to happen when the offseason arrives?

Yankees’ Max Fried joins elite company with rare feat, becoming only the 10th pitcher in MLB history to achieve this impressive milestone! Fried’s outstanding performance has solidified his position as one of the top players in the league, and fans can’t wait to see what he does next. 💪🏼🎉

Yankees starting pitcher Max Fried shines amid team struggles, joining Dwight Gooden and Johan Santana with a rare feat in 175 career starts.