A global chase begins — Mets pegged as top destination for Japanese superstar eyeing MLB glory. DD

Japanese superstar slugger Munetaka Murakami was posted on Friday, according to Jeff Passan of ESPN, and now has 45 days to negotiate with MLB teams and come to an agreement to make the jump.

Murakami has been heralded as the “Japanese Babe Ruth” and is not limited in his contract due to being older than 25. That’s unlike Roki Sasaki last year, for example, who could only receive international bonus pool money last year.

MIAMI, FLORIDA – MARCH 20: Munetaka Murakami #55 of Team Japan celebrates after hitting a two-run double to defeat Team Mexico 6-5 in the World Baseba…Read More

Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly tagged the New York Mets as the No. 1 landing spot for the international star. New York has already seen first baseman Pete Alonso elect free agency this winter, and after another All-Star campaign with increased production, the slugger could be in line for at least a four-year deal.

With the current vacancy at first base, Murakami could be the best option on the board. Adding in the 25-year-old in replacement of the 31-year-old Alonso could prove fruitful for the Mets after missing the postseason, but adding a star of Murakami’s caliber at just 25 could realistically revitalize and extend the Mets’ window.

Kelly also noted that Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns made a trip to Japan to watch Murakami himself. That should be a pretty good indication that, whether Murakami touches down at Laguardia and heads over to Citi Field or not, the Mets should be in on the left-handed slugger.

Murakami, a third baseman by trade, could be asked to make the move to first base or designated hitter, depending on where he lands, and with Alonso not on the team currently, the door begins to open for the Mets. Mets owner Steve Cohen is no stranger to opening his checkbook if the stars align to bring back Alonso and also add Murakami.