Athletics urged to lock down former NPB Triple Crown winner before deadline passes

Jared Bloom

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Athletics urged to lock down former NPB Triple Crown winner before deadline passes image

The Athletics have accomplished very little so far this offseason. They are one of the few teams that have kept relatively quiet since the winter months have approached. 

Their most significant move came when they signed Mark Leiter Jr. To a one-year deal. While he is no Mason Miller, he was brought on to bring some swing and miss stuff to the bullpen. 

However, they were involved in a trade with the Boston Red Sox. They received Justin Riemer in exchange for Ryan Watson, who the club had selected earlier in the week during the Rule 5 Draft. 

Athletics urged to lock down former NPB Triple Crown winner before deadline passes

One intriguing player who is still on the open market is Munetaka Murakami. He has been in the NPB since 2018, but was posted earlier this offseason. 

He is well-decorated, being named a two-time Central League MVP, a four-time All-Star, and a Triple Crown winner in 2022. He also plays a position that the A's could use an upgrade in, which is third base. 

Sports Illustrated's Jason Burke argues this would be a great addition for the club if they are willing to spend the money. 

"The Athletics could use an upgrade at third base this winter, and Murakami's power would be a huge boost to the club after their third basemen put up a 75 wRC+ in 2025."

While the A's have shrugged their shoulders at emptying their pocket for players, they did just offer a four-year deal to Ha-Seong Kim. Maybe they can put that one toward Murakami. 

One thing is for certain, and that is Murakami does not have much time left. He has until 5 p.m ET to strike a deal with any team across Major League Baseball. So, if the A's want this upgrade, they'd better get it done sooner rather than later.

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