Overview
- Imai’s agent Scott Boras confirmed the Nov. 19 posting date at the GM Meetings in Las Vegas, triggering talks with all 30 MLB clubs.
- The 27-year-old right-hander is coming off a 10–5 season with a 1.92 ERA and 178 strikeouts over 163.2 innings for Seibu.
- Under the MLB–NPB agreement, Seibu’s posting fee is 20% of the first $25 million of a contract, 17.5% of the next $25 million, and 15% above $50 million, plus 15% of earned bonuses and escalators.
- The Yankees and Mets are cited by multiple outlets as logical suitors, with Boras saying Imai favors big markets and values joining a winning team.
- Industry projections vary widely, with estimates ranging from about $80 million to as high as $200 million and several analyses clustering near a $150 million guarantee.