Kay Raves About Imai's 'Backwards' Slider

Former Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Anthony Kay recently lauded Japanese baseball prospect Tatsuya Imai on the "Baseball Isn't Boring" podcast. Kay described Imai as a formidable right-handed pitcher who consistently throws between 93-96 mph and possesses a unique, fear-inducing "backwards" slider. Imai, a three-time All-Star in Nippon Professional Baseball, previously pitched for the Saitama Seibu Lions, where he recorded a 1.92 ERA over 163 ⅔ innings last season.

Scott Boras, Imai's agent, confirmed significant interest from multiple MLB teams, with negotiations actively progressing. Offers have reportedly extended from the New York Yankees to the San Diego Padres, positioning Imai as a top prospect in the current trade market. He faces a crucial negotiation deadline on January 2nd; failure to sign with an MLB team by this date will result in his return to his Japanese club.

Imai has explicitly stated his intention not to join the Los Angeles Dodgers, citing their already robust pitching staff. He expressed a desire to make the "best choice" considering his family. As of January 1, 2026, Imai's future in Major League Baseball remains undecided, with teams actively vying for his talent before the upcoming deadline.