The Houston Astros are set to enhance their pitching rotation by signing Japanese right-hander Tatsuya Imai to a three-year contract valued at $54 million. This agreement, which comes just before the expiration of his posting window, includes performance incentives based on innings pitched and player opt-outs after each contract year, as reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post.
The contract contains escalators that could increase the total value to approximately $63 million if Imai meets certain performance benchmarks. These escalators activate for each year based on innings pitched thresholds of 80, 90, and 100.
Impact on Astros’ Rotation
Imai’s arrival is particularly significant as the Astros’ pitching lineup has undergone notable changes since the previous season. Following a three-team trade that brought right-hander Mike Burrows from the Pirates, Imai is expected to solidify the middle of the rotation, joining established pitchers like Hunter Brown and Cristian Javier. This strategic addition aligns with the Astros’ ambitions to reclaim playoff success in the upcoming season.
Known for his powerful pitching style, Imai stands out as one of the hardest-throwing starters in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). His impressive performance trajectory suggests he can seamlessly transition to Major League Baseball (MLB) and contribute immediately. Imai has built a reputation as a fierce competitor, showcasing a more animated presence on the mound compared to many of his Japanese counterparts. This was evident when he expressed his desire to “take down” the Dodgers during discussions about his potential signing.
Career Highlights and Scouting Profile
At 27 years old, Imai presents a unique profile as a pitcher. Standing at 5 feet 11 inches and weighing 154 pounds, he initially faced challenges with command early in his career. However, he has made significant strides, reducing his walk rate to a career-low 7% in 2025.
Imai’s journey in professional baseball began after winning the 2016 Summer Koshien tournament with Sakushin Gakuin, leading him to be drafted first overall by the Seibu Lions. He debuted with Seibu’s first team in 2018, encountering mixed results during his early seasons. His breakthrough came in 2021 when he earned an All-Star selection and subsequently made the All-Star roster two more times in 2024 and 2025. Notably, he played a crucial role in a no-hitter on April 18, 2025, pitching the first eight innings.
Imai’s pitching repertoire includes a four-seam fastball, slider, and splitter, along with occasional curveballs. His fastball regularly registers between 95-97 mph and can reach 98-99 mph at its peak. The effectiveness of his fastball lies in its high placement within the strike zone, which often leads to swings and misses. His slider, clocking in at 85-87 mph, serves as his primary strikeout pitch, characterized by a distinctive late break that confounds hitters. The splitter adds further depth to his arsenal, particularly effective against left-handed batters.
Despite his smaller stature, Imai’s explosive pitching style and low three-quarters arm slot contribute to a unique angle that enhances his effectiveness on the mound. As he prepares to make his MLB debut, he is poised to be a significant asset for the Astros, potentially serving as a reliable number three starter.
With the addition of Tatsuya Imai, the Astros are clearly positioning themselves for a strong showing in the upcoming season, as they look to build upon their legacy in Major League Baseball.
