The Boston Red Sox struck gold on the free agent market last offseason when they landed Alex Bregman, but the opt-out clause in his contract looms large. If the veteran third baseman does decide to execute said clause at the end of the 2025 season, however, the Red Sox might have to pivot in a major way.
While the latest rumors wouldn't be a one-for-one solution for that potential nightmare, the Red Sox may at least have a high-profile option to sign and solve their first base problem. And if they bring Bregman back? Even better! They're stacked.
During a recent interview with Bleacher Report, MLB insider Jon Heyman of the New York Post identified Boston as one of the top fits for Japanese corner infielder Munetaka Murakami.
The highly-touted NPB slugger is expected to be one of the top free agents available in free agency this offseason, and Heyman listed the Red Sox as one of four primary suitors alongside the Los Angeles Dodgers, Seattle Mariners and New York Mets.
Potential fits for Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami, per @JonHeyman:
— B/R Walk-Off (@BRWalkoff) August 13, 2025
Mariners, Dodgers, Mets, Red Sox 🍿 pic.twitter.com/PDB1wOpXmb
Red Sox Rumors: MLB insider names Boston an ideal fit for incoming Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami
Admittedly, the Bregman situation – namely, whether he exercises his opt-out and whether Boston can get him locked up on a long-term extension – makes it more difficult to predict the likelihood that the Red Sox actually sign Murakami. But the fit makes sense for plenty of logical reasons.
Murakami is a left-handed slugger who has spent most of his career playing third base, but he has the ability to play both corner infield spots – which could be particularly appealing to the Red Sox, who have had a revolving door at first base of late. Previous rumors have suggested he would probably make the official switch to first base should he land in MLB.
The 25-year-old Murakami hit .244 with 47 extra-base hits including 33 home runs, 86 RBI and a .851 OPS in 143 games for the Tokyo Yakult Swallows last season. In his first 28 games this season, Murakami posted a .311 batting average with seven home runs and a 1.003 OPS. He averaged 37.2 homers in each of the previous six seasons, including 56 in 2022.
When it comes to their future at third base, re-signing Bregman likely remains the Red Sox's top priority. Whether or not they get it done, Murakami would certainly be an ideal get for solving the other side of the infield.
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