Astros Eye Rotation Options as Tatsuya Imai Chooses Japan Return

The Houston Astros have been watching the MLB pitching market closely this offseason. One of the more intriguing international names, Tatsuya Imai, is now officially off the board after choosing to stay in Japan despite reported interest from multiple MLB teams. While the Chicago White Sox were among the clubs most aggressively pursuing him, his decision still affects the market the Astros are navigating.

Imai, a standout pitcher in Nippon Professional Baseball, had drawn attention for his late-career leap in command and pitch variance. His upside, paired with his relatively affordable posting profile, made him appealing to any team seeking rotation depth for 2025. His choice to remain in NPB removes one mid-tier target and shifts the focus back to domestic free agents and trade options—an area where the Astros must now stay sharp.

What This Means for Houston’s Rotation

The Astros enter 2025 needing reliable innings behind Framber Valdez, Justin Verlander, Hunter Brown, and Cristian Javier. Injuries and inconsistent performance exposed the team’s lack of depth last season. While Houston was never publicly linked to Imai, his market presence helped balance overall demand for pitching. With him staying overseas, teams that missed out—like the White Sox—could become more aggressive in pursuing the same pitchers the Astros are evaluating.

That includes names such as Blake Snell, Jordan Montgomery, and a growing group of trade candidates. The Astros tend to operate with financial caution, but competition could push prices up quickly, especially as spring training approaches.

Where the Astros Could Turn Next

Houston may focus on controllable mid-tier starters rather than expensive top-end arms. Internal options, including J.P. France and Spencer Arrighetti, will also factor into the equation, though relying on youth alone carries risk.

The Astros still have time, but the pitching landscape is shifting fast. Every missed signing elsewhere changes the market, and Houston must stay proactive if they want to avoid entering the season with too many question marks on the mound.

This article is a summary of reporting by Sports Mockery. Read the full story here.