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Pitcher Imai: Wants to Beat, Not Join, MLB Stars
25 Nov
Summary
- Imai prefers competing against top MLB talent over joining them.
- He recently won Japan's equivalent of the Cy Young Award.
- Imai posted a 1.92 ERA in the 2025 season.
Tatsuya Imai, a prominent Japanese right-hander, is considering a transition to Major League Baseball. Unlike many peers, Imai has voiced a distinct ambition: to face and conquer MLB's elite rather than join them. He finds more satisfaction in competing against top-tier talent and winning a championship through such a challenge, rather than being part of a pre-built powerhouse. This competitive spirit has defined his successful career.
Having recently earned the Sawamura Award, Japan's premier pitching honor, Imai is coming off a stellar 2025 season. He achieved an impressive 1.92 earned run average across 24 starts, recording 178 strikeouts against only 45 walks. His performance highlighted exceptional command and the ability to pitch deep into games, including five complete games and three shutouts.
With eight seasons in Nippon Professional Baseball, Imai has consistently performed, earning three All-Star selections and maintaining a sub-3.00 ERA for four consecutive years. His career ERA stands at 3.15. As he contemplates his next career move, Imai's focus remains on testing his skills against the best and achieving success through formidable competition.
