Tatsuya Imai made his goals known right from the start during his introductory press conference with the Houston Astros on Monday. The Japanese pitcher smiled and then read a prepared message in English from his phone, saying, “What happened to H-town? I’m Tatsuya Imai. I’m ready to chase the world championship. Let’s go, Houston.”
Imai recently signed a three-year, $54 million contract with the Astros, aimed at strengthening their rotation as ace Framber Valdez becomes a free agent and is unlikely to return. “We needed to strengthen our rotation,” said general manager Dana Brown. “He had strong skills and a great track record, and we believe he can perform well in the major leagues.”
At 27 years old, Imai came to the Astros after a successful career with the Seibu Lions in Japan’s Pacific League, where he recorded 10 wins, 5 losses, an ERA of 1.92, and 178 strikeouts in 163 2/3 innings last season. Over eight seasons with Seibu, Imai was a three-time All-Star, amassing 58 wins, 45 losses, a 3.15 ERA, and 907 strikeouts in 963 2/3 innings.
Astros manager Joe Espada praised the signing, highlighting Imai’s competitive nature and focus on winning. “Starting pitchers are crucial, and no matter how many you have, it’s never enough,” Espada said. “Imai talks a lot about being a champion, and I admire his grit and toughness. I’m excited to see him pitch for us.”
Astros owner Jim Crane expressed hopes that Imai’s signing will be the first of many players brought in from Asia, as the team has recently added scouting personnel in Tokyo, Taiwan, and Seoul. “We are investing in talent identification overseas and have lots of work ahead to bring great players to Houston,” Crane explained.
Imai’s arrival is a significant boost for a team that missed the playoffs for the first time since 2016 after a season marred by injuries. He revealed that the idea of moving to Major League Baseball took hold after meeting with his agent Scott Boras about five years ago. “That moment made me believe if I worked hard and believed in myself, I could make it,” Imai shared through an interpreter.
Known for his fierce competitiveness, Imai said that his desire to win has been with him since childhood. “Ever since playing baseball in elementary school, I wanted to be the best, throw the fastest and furthest,” he said. “That drive stayed with me throughout my career.”
However, Imai also enjoys having fun both on and off the field, valuing interactions with fans and wanting to give back to those who have supported him. When asked about connecting with his new teammates, he jokingly noted receiving a direct message from Astros closer Josh Hader, welcoming him and offering help. “His messages came so fast, it felt like 160 miles per hour. I want to respond as fast as that,” Imai said with a smile.
(Fan Take) This signing is exciting for baseball fans because it highlights the growing influence of international talent in MLB and the Astros’ commitment to building a championship-caliber team. Imai’s competitive spirit and skills could bring a fresh dynamic to the rotation, helping to elevate the level of play and global interest in the sport.
