The Los Angeles Dodgers, two-time reigning World Series champions, continue to expand their hegemony both on and off the field. After securing three of Japan’s biggest baseball stars – Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki – the Los Angeles franchise is once again turning its attention to the Asian market. This time, the target is Munetaka Murakami, one of the most productive and talented sluggers in NPB.
The Dodgers are leading the race to sign the 25-year-old third baseman, who despite dealing with injuries in 2025 managed to hit 22 home runs in just 56 games, finishing the year with an impressive OPS of 1.051. His track record backs him up: 246 home runs in 892 games with the Tokyo Yakult Swallows and a Triple Crown in 2022, a season in which he set the record for most home runs in a year by a Japanese player (56).
Murakami represents a high investment for the Dodgers
Murakami’s numbers make him the best third baseman available in free agency, but also one of the most expensive. His market price would be around $90 million, a considerable figure even for a team with the Dodgers’ robust payroll.
The need to reinforce the hot corner is evident: Max Muncy will be entering his age-35 season in 2026, while versatile infielder Miguel Rojas, 36, will be entering the final year of his contract. While Murakami would be an immediate and long-term solution, Los Angeles management is also evaluating cheaper alternatives that would allow them to maintain financial flexibility and depth on the roster.
Dodgers analyze Korean Sun-mun Song as affordable option
The most realistic alternative seems to be Sun-mun Song, a KBO star and new Kiwoom Heroes player. Reports from South Korean media on November 20, 2024, as well as information highlighted by MSN, indicate that the Dodgers are keeping a close eye on the 29-year-old third baseman, who is considered a much more affordable option for 2026.
While Murakami could cost close to $90 million, Song would be available for just $12.5 million, a similar investment to the three-year contract the Angels recently awarded to Hyeseong Kim, his former Kiwoom teammate. In addition, Song has stated that he will not demand clauses that allow him to reject assignments to the Minor Leagues, something that pleases the Angels’ management because of the flexibility it provides.
Dodgers project their future after winning two World Series
With two consecutive championships, the Dodgers find themselves at a point where future planning is as important as immediate performance. Whether through the superstar route of Murakami or the more accessible profile of Song, the organization is looking to ensure depth, youth and stability at third base.
The Asian market is once again the scene where Los Angeles wants to make a difference, reinforcing a strategy that has already given them outstanding results.
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