Blue Jays looking to bring star Japanese player to Toronto

The Toronto Blue Jays are in the hunt for the next big Japanese star who is looking to make his way to the major leagues.

After a push to the World Series, the Blue Jays are reportedly showing interest in Munetaka Murakami, a 25-year-old star infielder who plays for the Tokyo Yakult Swallows, while also representing his country at the 2023 World Baseball Classic.

ESPN's Jeff Passan first reported the news of Murakami tossing his name in the hat towards MLB teams, calling it "one of the most anticipated free agencies of the winter."

And the Blue Jays have had their eyes on the star for years, according to Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith.

But the process won't be simple.

Per MLB.com's Mark Feinsand, the New York Yankees, New York Mets, Seattle Mariners, Philadelphia Phillies, San Francisco Giants, and Boston Red Sox are all also interested in his services.

Murakami has a 45-day window that opens Saturday to sign a contract with an MLB team, giving him up until Dec. 22 to strike a deal.

What would the Blue Jays be getting in Murakami?

Mostly, he's known for his power.

Standing at 6-foot-2 and 213 pounds, he's hit 246 home runs in 892 games as a pro in Japan. His 56 home runs in 2022 set a league record for most home runs by a Japanese player. In an injury-riddled 2025 season, he put up 22 home runs with 47 RBIs and a 1.043 OPS in 56 games.

The move would certainly shake up Toronto's infield, which is already in a state of flux as the Jays await to see how Bo Bichette's free agency plays out.

Murakami has primarily played as a third baseman in Japan, though he has also sporadically suited up at first base and in the outfield when necessary.

In any case, unless his free agency is wrapped up quickly, don't expect this to be the last update about the Jays and Murakami, as MLB signing periods have a tendency to drag on for weeks and even months sometimes.