2026: Next Dodger Target: Munetaka Murakami (Home Run King)NEW

Dodgers Could Target Japan’s Home Run King to Succeed Max Muncy
The Los Angeles Dodgers may be preparing for a major offseason move to secure Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami as a potential successor to veteran third baseman Max Muncy. While Muncy has been a key contributor since returning from injury-and the team holds a $10 million option for 2026-his age (35) and injury history raise questions about his long-term role.

Height: 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm)
Weight: 213 lb (97 kg)

Murakami’s Appeal
The 25-year-old Tokyo Yakult Swallows star has already hit 223 home runs in Nippon Professional Baseball (2019-2024) and owns a career .270/.395/.550 slash line with a .945 OPS. Despite missing most of 2025 due to elbow surgery, his youth, power, and defensive improvement make him a top free-agent target this winter. Experts project he could command a $200-$300 million deal.

Dodgers’ Fit
Murakami’s profile mirrors Muncy’s-left-handed power and high strikeouts-but with more upside. The Dodgers’ history with Japanese talent (Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Roki Sasaki) and Los Angeles’ large Japanese-merican fanbase strengthen the fit.

Competition
Murakami reportedly prefers the West Coast but is also open to the New York Yankees, setting up a possible high-stakes bidding war.

The Decision Ahead
Signing Murakami could boost the Dodgers’ long-term offensive core but might mean moving on from Muncy, a fan favorite who hopes to retire in LA. This offseason could define the next decade for Dodgers baseball, blending respect for a veteran leader with the pursuit of a new superstar.