The Toronto Blue Jays aren’t wasting any time this offseason. Fresh off a World Series run, they’re diving headfirst into the free agent market - and their latest target could be a game-changer. According to reports, Toronto is among several teams showing serious interest in Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami, a power-hitting corner infielder who’s drawing plenty of attention as his posting window nears its December 22nd deadline.
This pursuit comes as the Blue Jays continue to navigate a pivotal offseason - one that could reshape the left side of their infield. Bo Bichette, their longtime shortstop and two-time All-Star, remains unsigned after hitting free agency. While the Jays are still in contact with Bichette, the front office is clearly exploring multiple paths forward, and Murakami is firmly on their radar.
Who is Munetaka Murakami?
If you're not familiar with Murakami yet, you will be soon. The 25-year-old has been a force in Japan’s NPB since debuting in 2018.
In just over 1,000 games, he's launched 265 home runs, earned four All-Star selections, and played a key role in Japan’s 2023 World Baseball Classic title run. He’s not just a slugger - he’s a cornerstone-type player, capable of anchoring a lineup and holding down a corner infield spot for years.
Murakami’s posting by the Yakult Swallows has created a ripple effect across the league. Teams aren’t just lining up to sign him - they’re also waiting to see where he lands before making their next infield move.
According to MLB Network’s J.P. Morosi, Murakami is tied to several key free agents, including Bichette and Alex Bregman.
The thinking is simple: once Murakami signs, the rest of the infield market could move quickly.
Who’s in the Mix?
Toronto isn’t alone in the Murakami sweepstakes. Morosi reports that at least six other teams - including the Red Sox, Mariners, Tigers, Phillies, Mets, and Pirates - are also in the hunt.
That level of competition speaks volumes about how Murakami is valued across the league. He’s not just a fallback option - he’s a potential franchise centerpiece.
And the clock is ticking. Murakami’s signing window closes at **5 p.m.
ET on December 22**, giving interested teams just over a week to finalize a deal. It’s a deadline that’s shaping the offseason - not unlike the qualifying offer deadline - and it’s forcing teams to make some tough decisions.
The Bo Bichette Factor
Meanwhile, the Blue Jays haven’t closed the door on a Bo Bichette reunion - but the odds may be slipping. Morosi noted that Toronto remains in contact with Bichette, but their pursuit of Kyle Tucker, the top outfield free agent on the market, could complicate things.
If the Jays land Tucker, it could signal the end of Bichette’s time in Toronto. Tucker would likely slide into right field, with Addison Barger shifting into the infield alongside Andrés Giménez and Ernie Clement. That configuration would leave little room for Bichette, who’s been a staple at shortstop for the past seven seasons.
Should Bichette move on, Morosi pointed to Atlanta and Boston as potential landing spots. The Braves could slot him in at shortstop, while the Red Sox might use him at second or third, depending on how their infield shakes out.
Bichette’s Impact
Let’s not forget what Bichette brings to the table. At 27, he’s already a two-time All-Star and one of the most consistent hitters in the American League.
This past season, he slashed .311/.354/.483 over 139 games with 63 extra-base hits and a 129 OPS+. He’s led the AL in hits twice and declined a $22.05 million qualifying offer to test free agency - and he’s earned that right.
The Jays know what they’d be giving up if Bichette walks. But they’re also positioning themselves to pivot quickly, whether it’s with Murakami, Tucker, or another high-impact addition.
What’s Next?
This is a defining moment for the Blue Jays. They’ve already made a splash by signing Dylan Cease to a seven-year, $210 million deal and adding Cody Ponce on a three-year, $30 million contract. Now, they’re eyeing the next big piece - and the decisions they make in the coming days could shape their roster for years.
Whether it’s Murakami, Tucker, or a surprise move, Toronto is clearly going for it. And with the infield market about to heat up, the Jays are right in the thick of it - just where a World Series contender should be.