Scouting Report
Updated May 19, 2026
Tatsuya Imai, the Japanese right-hander signed to a 3-year, $54M contract by the Houston Astros, has struggled significantly in his MLB transition. After posting a 7.27 ERA in his first three starts, he was placed on the 15-day IL due to right arm fatigue on April 12. During his rehab assignment with Triple-A Sugar Land, Imai continued to show alarming command issues, walking 8 batters while striking out only 5 across 5 innings. In his return start against the Seattle Mariners, he allowed 6 earned runs, 5 hits, 3 walks, and 2 hit-by-pitches in a disastrous outing that included a grand slam. His ERA has ballooned to 9.24. Imai has attributed some struggles to adjusting to MLB conditions including the pitch clock, different baseball, pitcher's mound, and meal schedule. The Astros remain committed to getting him back on track despite the poor performance.
Strengths
- + Proven track record in NPB with 10-5 record and 1.92 ERA in final season with Seibu Lions
- + Showed flashes of potential with intriguing reverse slider against Athletics
- + Astros management and coaching staff remain confident in his ability
- + Young at 27 years old with time to adjust to MLB
- + Signed to significant 3-year, $54M contract indicating organizational commitment
Injury Status: IL-15
About
Tatsuya Imai is a sp for the Houston Astros.
Player Overview
SP
Houston Astros
Recent News
Josh Bell went 3-for-4 with two home runs and four RBI against the Astros on Monday.
May 19, 2026
Tatsuya Imai allowed three runs in 4 2/3 innings and took the loss against the Twins on Monday.
May 19, 2026
PENA RETURNS: Astros vs. Twins Game Thread: Game 49, 5/18/2026
May 18, 2026
Astros' Tatsuya Imai returns from IL with disaster start vs. Mariners, ERA now at 9.24
May 13, 2026
Astros' Tatsuya Imai will make his next start, promises manager Joe Espada despite latest implosion
May 13, 2026