Mets President Spotted Scouting Japanese Phenom Slugger Ahead Of Free Agency

August 13, 2025
Japan third baseman Munetaka Murakami hits a home run during the Baseball World Classic in 2023.

The New York Mets are ramping up their interest in Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami as the Nippon Professional Baseball season winds down. 

Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns was spotted at Meiji Jingu Stadium in Tokyo on August 12, 2025, watching the Yakult Swallows’ star corner infielder take the field.

Mets President David Stearns Scouting Japanese Powerhouse Munetaka Murakami for Possible MLB Move

Murakami is one of Japan’s most prolific hitters, possessing consistent home run production. Since 2019, he has posted five seasons with 30 or more homers, including a record-setting 56-home run campaign in 2022. 

Despite battling injuries this season, he showcased his elite talent by delivering a walk-off two-run home run during Stearns’ visit. Over his NPB career, Murakami boasts a .273/.394/.543 slash line, 246 home runs, and a remarkable .943 OPS, making him one of the most coveted Japanese hitters to approach MLB in recent years.

The Mets’ interest in Murakami aligns with potential roster changes, especially with first baseman Pete Alonso expected to exercise an opt-out in his contract after the 2025 season. Murakami’s ability to play third base and first base offers flexibility for the Mets, who have struggled to establish a clear third base starter in recent seasons. 

Photo Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

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