Overview
- Imai said he prefers a club without another Japanese player, describing a desire to navigate cultural challenges on his own.
- The Seibu Lions posted the 2025 Sawamura Award winner on Nov. 19, opening a limited window for MLB teams to reach a deal.
- He is coming off a 1.92 ERA with 178 strikeouts over 163 2/3 innings, making him one of this offseason’s top available starters.
- Imai singled out Shohei Ohtani as the hitter he most wants to face, saying he wants to test his fastball against him.
- Reports link multiple teams to Imai, including the Yankees and Cubs, as his comments challenge assumptions about a Dodgers destination.