MLB Trade Rumors: Phillies Linked to $200 Million Japanese Slugger as Potential Kyle Schwarber Replacement
By Raunak Bose | October 11, 2025
The Philadelphia Phillies are entering a critical offseason following their dramatic National League Division Series loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers. After several seasons of deep playoff runs ending short of a title, the club is expected to make significant roster changes — and the biggest question is whether they can re-sign power hitter Kyle Schwarber.
Although the Phillies would like to retain Schwarber, his market value after a 56-homer season has drawn league-wide attention. If he departs, reports suggest that Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami could be the team’s top target as his replacement.
Phillies Reportedly Interested in Munetaka Murakami
According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, the 25-year-old Munetaka Murakami of Japan’s Tokyo Yakult Swallows is expected to be posted this offseason. Murakami, a two-time Central League MVP, made history in 2022 by hitting 56 home runs — the most ever by a Japanese-born player in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB).
Feinsand reported that the Yankees, Mets, Phillies, and Mariners are among the teams expected to pursue him. Murakami’s blend of power, patience, and youth could make him one of the most sought-after international free agents in recent memory, potentially landing a contract worth around $200 million.
Murakami’s NPB Career Highlights
Across 892 NPB games, Murakami has recorded 842 hits, 246 home runs, 647 RBIs, and a .270 batting average with a .951 OPS. Even in an injury-limited 2025 season, he produced 22 home runs and 47 RBIs in just 56 games, maintaining a stellar 1.043 OPS.
His offensive profile — power to all fields, strong plate discipline, and consistent production — mirrors Schwarber’s strengths, but with more defensive versatility and a decade of prime years ahead.
Possible Lineup Scenarios for Philadelphia
If Murakami joins the Phillies, several lineup adjustments could follow. He could serve as a designated hitter to directly replace Schwarber, or Bryce Harper could move back to the outfield, opening first base for Murakami. Another option could see Alec Bohm traded to create payroll flexibility as he approaches the end of his arbitration years.
Ideally, the Phillies could retain Schwarber while also adding Murakami, forming one of MLB’s most powerful lineups. However, if Schwarber leaves for a larger deal elsewhere, Murakami offers a younger, long-term solution with elite power potential.
Why Murakami Fits Philadelphia’s Vision
President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski has emphasized the need to strengthen the team’s offense after another playoff heartbreak. Murakami aligns perfectly with that plan — providing left-handed power, positional versatility, and a long-term cornerstone for the Phillies’ lineup.
His addition could spark a new offensive era in Philadelphia, keeping the team in contention for years to come.
Final Thoughts
While the Phillies’ priority remains re-signing Schwarber, their growing interest in Murakami signals preparation for all outcomes. After years of falling just short, Philadelphia appears ready to make a bold move. If Schwarber departs, Munetaka Murakami could be the next superstar lighting up Citizens Bank Park.
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