"There's no question the soon to be posted latest Japanese superstar could have a transformative impact on the Marlins lineup, with more raw power than any of the corner infielders Miami utilized during the 2025 season. It would also bring a ton of international media attention. Murakami shone brightly for Japan in the last World Baseball Classic, and with that event returning to Miami in 2026, the move would pay some immediate marketing dividends for Marlins owner Bruce Sherman."
"Unfortunately, landing Murakami will probably end up costing about $100 million more than the 2026 Marlins will spend on their entire payroll, once you factor in posting fees. Between that and the fact there is really nothing Miami has to offer that would trump what a West Coast or Northeast team could to the Japanese import, a Murakami to Miami deal would be a long shot at best."
"Fortunately, Murakami can still help solve Miami's corner infield woes without ever taking a single at bat in a Marlins uniform. Why? Because all of the bigger money clubs, the ones that can afford kicking in an extra $15 to $20 million in posting feeson top of a big contract without breaking a sweat, are going to be in on Murakami."
Murakami offers exceptional raw power and significant international media attention, especially with the World Baseball Classic returning to Miami in 2026. The posting fee plus contract would likely exceed Miami's entire 2026 payroll by roughly $100 million, making a Marlins signing improbable. Miami lacks advantages that would outweigh West Coast or Northeast suitors. High-spending clubs will pursue Murakami once other major free agents sign, increasing competition and bidding for corner-infield talent. The presence of Murakami in the market effectively raises prices and priorities for top corner infielders, indirectly helping Miami address its positional needs without acquiring him.
Read at Marlin Maniac
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