Hitting details spark heated discussion! Munetaka Murakami compared to Shohei Ohtani’s rookie year: patience is required

Shohei Ohtani’s recent impact in the U.S. has created a surge of interest in Japanese hitters, increasing anticipation for the next star. Munetaka Murakami, the slugger from the Tokyo Yakult Swallows, is set to join MLB via the posting system, making his potential power and future role a key focus for American media discussions.

Murakami missed much of this year due to a side abdominal injury but still launched 22 home runs in only 56 games. In 2022, he hit 56 homers in a single season and is regarded as one of the most dominant power hitters in recent NPB history. Although his high strikeout rate has caused some scouts to be divided, most analysts remain optimistic about his ability to produce at a "30-home-run season" level in the Major Leagues.

Bleacher Report’s analysis describes Murakami as a typical "Three True Outcomes" (TTO) hitter, characterized by power, walks, and a high strikeout rate. His batting swing involves a large separation between his arms and torso at the start, a motion compared to Ohtani’s when he first arrived in the U.S. This style leads to a tendency to chase bad pitches and slower reactions to inside fastballs. However, the report also notes that Ohtani overcame similar issues in about a year, suggesting that patience is warranted for Murakami’s adjustment period. Defensively, while he can play third base, his range is limited, and a move to first base in the future is considered highly likely.

Regarding the best team fit, Murakami has attracted interest from several big-market powerhouses such as the New York Yankees, New York Mets, and Boston Red Sox. However, Yardbarker warns that while big markets offer quick exposure, they also present a tougher environment for rookies, especially in media-heavy cities like Los Angeles and New York, where performances are scrutinized more intensely, particularly with other Japanese players like Ohtani in the spotlight.

Therefore, the outlet points out that a "small market team" might actually be a better starting point for Murakami, with the Miami Marlins seen as the most suitable option. The Marlins have long sought stable, long-term power at first base, which aligns perfectly if Murakami shifts defensively to that position. Compared to big markets, smaller markets allow him to gradually build experience as a regular starter. At only 25 years old, he also fits well with Miami’s youthful roster.