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34m ago

Astros Land Japan Right‑Hander Tatsuya Imai on Three‑Year, $54 Million Deal With Annual Opt‑Outs

A deadline‑driven posting capped a player‑friendly pact that resets the starting‑pitching market for clubs still shopping.

TOKYO, JAPAN - NOVEMBER 19: Pitcher Tatsuya Imai #48 of Japan reacts after the 4th inning during the Asia Professional Baseball Championship Final between South Korea and Japan at Tokyo Dome on November 19, 2023 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Gene Wang/Getty Images)
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OSAKA, JAPAN - MARCH 05: Tatsuya Imai #48 of Samurai Japan reacts after pitching in the top of the seventh inning during the game between Samurai Japan and Netherlands at Kyocera Dome Osaka on March 05, 2025 in Osaka, Japan. (Photo by Gene Wang/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • Tatsuya Imai, 27, agreed to a three‑year contract that guarantees $54 million, can reach $63 million via innings‑based escalators, and includes opt‑outs after each season.
  • Imai chose Houston as his NPB posting window neared its close, concluding a compressed bidding process that prominently featured the Cubs as the top rival.
  • Multiple reports indicate the Yankees and Mets were not heavily involved, reflecting leaguewide caution on long‑term bets for pitchers moving from NPB.
  • The Astros effectively end their search for rotation help after also adding Mike Burrows, Nate Pearson and Ryan Weiss, with attention expected to shift to bullpen and backup catcher needs.
  • The deal removes Houston from pursuits of remaining frontline starters and is expected to redirect interest toward options such as Framber Valdez, Ranger Suárez and Zac Gallen.