Today marks Tatsuya Imai’s second Major League start, one of the most anticipated additions to the Astros this offseason.
During his first start, his nerves may have gotten the best of him, but on his eighth pitch, he recorded his first Major League strikeout against Angels star Mike Trout. He also struck out Jorge Soler later in the first inning and ended the second inning with back-to-back strikeouts of Josh Lowe and Travis d'Arnaud.
The third inning proved more challenging. A bases-loaded double by Soler cleared the bases, and an RBI single by Jo Adell tied the game. Imai said the Major League environment is very different from Japan, and that adjustment led to some mistakes.
Still, flashes of his talent were obvious. He has the ability to miss bats, maintain poise under pressure, and show the pitching mechanics that made him one of the most talked-about newcomers this offseason.
There is something to be said about starting your first Major League game in a strong way. His nerves may have gotten in the way, but it is just one game, and he understandably needs to adjust to the pressures and differences of the Major Leagues.
Imai brings talent, energy, and confidence as he looks to chase big wins. With him joining the rotation, the Astros have added an impact starter who should strengthen the 2026 rotation.
Now that he has had a little time to shake those nerves, Imai looks ready to show everyone what he brings to the mound.