Cubs rival stuns everyone by landing Japanese slugger in surprise bidding war

With the impression that the bidding for free-agent Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami would be lower than expected, there was a belief that the Chicago Cubs could get involved in the sweepstakes. As it turned out, Murakami is indeed headed to Chicago, but it will be with the Chicago White Sox.

ESPN's Jeff Passan confirms that the 25-year-old slugging third baseman has signed a two-year deal with the South Siders worth $34M. At one point, the expectation was that Murakami would land a long-term deal approaching $200M. However, in recent months, concerns surfaced over his ability to hit high-velocity pitching. Given that velocity is on the rise for major league pitching, it makes sense that his market may not have been as strong as once anticipated.

White Sox swoop in and land Munetaka Muramai on a surprisingly affordable deal.

It was reported late last week that the Cubs were among the teams discussing short-term scenarios with Murakami's agent. The one thing the Cubs couldn't offer that the White Sox could was consistent playing time.

For the Cubs, given the value, it would have been an upside play. Matt Shaw would have likely remained in place as the team's third baseman, and Murakami likely would have been a candidate to get reps as the team's designated hitter, depending on the matchup.

With the White Sox, Murakami should have a clear runway in the team's starting lineup. There's been some question regarding what position Murakami would play upon his move to the majors, with some believing he might be better at first base instead of the hot corner. Regardless, the White Sox can insert him at either position.

The Cubs still have yet to map out their big move of the offseason. The team remains connected to All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman. Unlike Murakami, Bregman's arrival would unseat Shaw at third base. In that scenario, Shaw would serve in a super-utility role off the bench.

The market for Kazuma Okamoto should come into focus now that Murakami has signed. Murakami may have the higher ceiling, but many talent evaluators believe Okamoto could have the most immediate impact. The Cubs have been connected to Okamato as well, but it seems their plans are tied to the method with which they address their need for a starting pitcher.