MLB trade rumors: White Sox eye power upgrade in Munetaka Murakami as experts predict Bo Bichette 2B transition

Munetaka Murakami is once again at the center of MLB offseason talk. The 25-year-old Japanese slugger is drawing fresh attention as his posting window is set to close on Monday at 5 p.m. ET. While several teams have been mentioned in recent weeks, no deal has been finalized yet. Now, a new insider report has connected Murakami with the Chicago White Sox, a team searching for power after another rough season.

At the same time, Bo Bichette is making headlines for a different reason. The Toronto Blue Jays shortstop has reportedly told teams he is open to changing positions. That update could reshape the infield market as free agency talks continue across the league.

Munetaka Murakami draws Chicago White Sox interest before posting deadline

ESPN insider David Schoenfield shared his view this week, urging the Chicago White Sox to take a chance on Munetaka Murakami.

Schoenfield pointed out that the White Sox badly need power after finishing near the bottom of the league in home runs during the 2025 season.

“They have a desperate need for power and Murakami fits at either third or first,” Schoenfield wrote. He added that the fit could depend on where Miguel Vargas ends up playing.

“This would be a nice roll of the dice for a White Sox team that looks to be on the rise.”

Munetaka Murakami is best known for his power in Japan, where he starred for the Tokyo Yakult Swallows.

He hit 56 home runs in 2022 and won multiple MVP awards. Even so, MLB teams have been cautious, partly due to defensive questions and the cost of a posting fee.



With the deadline approaching fast, Chicago remains a team to watch, especially as they look for a middle-of-the-order bat who can change games.

While Murakami waits, Bo Bichette’s name is heating up again. MLB insider Mark Feinsand reported this week that Bichette has told at least one team he is willing to move to second base.

“It seems like the message has gotten through to him that teams don’t view him as a shortstop long-term,” an anonymous source told Feinsand. “His willingness to change positions can only help him in the market.”
The Toronto Blue Jays are still linked to a reunion with their former two-time All-Star. However, the Boston Red Sox are also showing interest.

Boston is exploring an infield overhaul and could see Bichette as a fit at second base, especially with questions around third base following Alex Bregman’s decision to test free agency.

Bichette has limited experience at second base, including short stints earlier in his career and international play. Still, teams value his bat, and flexibility could increase his appeal as talks move forward.

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