The Astros made their first major splash of the offseason, landing a pitcher the baseball world can’t stop talking about: Tatsuya Imai. After searching far and wide to replace the inevitable departure of 2025 season’s ace, Framber Valdez, Houston may have just found its next frontline starter.
So, who is he and what is all the hype about?
Tatsuya Imai, born in Kanuma, Tochigi, Japan, is a 27-year-old right-handed pitcher with a strong resume. He was drafted right out of high school and developed entirely in Japan’s pro system.
Imai was drafted by the Saitama Seibu Lions and debuted in NPB in 2018. Early on, he developed a reputation for power and durability. He gradually improved over his first few seasons, increasing his consistency and command while maintaining high velocity, and became known for missing bats and handling heavy inning totals. His competitiveness, aggressiveness, and determination shaped him as a pitcher early in his career.
Once he solidified who he was on the mound, where did he go from there?
After early development, he became a frontline starter, consistently ranking among the league’s strikeout leaders and shouldering ace-level innings in Seibu’s rotation. He has the stats to back up Houston’s excitement, per NPB.jp.
Career Stats (NPB, 2018–2025): W–L: 58–45, ERA: 3.15, SO: 907 in 963⅔ IP
2025 Season Stats: W–L: 10–5, ERA: 1.92, SO: 178 in 163⅔ IP
After a great career in Japan, he started generating buzz in the MLB world. Due to his stellar stats and ever-growing skill, he made himself an attractive target for the Houston Astros. Not only did they need a great starting pitcher, but it looks like they found exactly what they were looking for in Imai.
He is determined and motivated, and has already made it clear he doesn’t want to take the easy way out. He wants to grind and earn his place in the major league system.
Imai has already immersed himself in Houston culture. He was spotted at a Texans game this past weekend, showing his support for his new city.
Not only is he extremely talented, he has a big smile on his face, and he is on the hunt for the big wins. With Imai joining the rotation, the Astros have added an impact starter who should strengthen the 2026 rotation.