With just two days left to negotiate with MLB clubs, a source tells MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand that coveted Japanese star Tatsuya Imai is holding meetings in Los Angeles with interested teams. Having been interested and stayed connected throughout the offseason, the New York Mets are believed to be among the teams involved in those meetings. Imai is meeting with clubs via Zoom.
Mets Remain Engaged on Tatsuya Imai as Posting Window Nears End
Tatsuya Imai Meeting With Interested Teams
If Tatsuya Imai fails to reach an agreement with a major league club by Friday’s 5 p.m. ET deadline, he will return to his Nippon Professional Baseball team for the coming season.
The Mets are not expected to pursue long-term deals with Framber Valdez or Ranger Suárez, though the 27-year-old Imai could emerge as an exception. For example, president of baseball operations David Stearns has demonstrated a willingness to make long-term commitments, most notably Juan Soto (15 years, $765 million) and fellow Japanese star Yoshinobu Yamamoto (12 years, $325 million. What all three have in common: a young age and talent – lots of it.
Meanwhile, the Mets are expected to add at least one starting pitcher, though a corresponding subtraction could open the door to landing two. Additionally, teams like the Cubs, Yankees, Phillies, and, most recently, the White Sox have been linked to Imai. While many teams have shown interest in Imai, the market has yet to reveal what level of offers he has received.
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Imai acknowledged the lack of clarity surrounding his market during an appearance on TV Asahi’s “Udo Times.” “Apparently, there actually aren’t many concrete options on the table,” he said. “And it seems that having teams show interest and receiving a formal offer are completely different things.”
Imai recorded a 1.92 ERA over 163 2/3 innings this past season for the Saitama Seibu Lions. He struck out 178 batters, walked 45, and allowed only six home runs. The righty has pitched eight seasons for Seibu. Over the past three years, his ERA has been 2.18.
“There are many teams that are interested in him, and we are moving forward with negotiations,” agent Scott Boras told the Hochi News.
During the program, Imai also discussed his first in-person meeting with Boras, who described his client as a potential difference-maker. Imai said Boras helped narrow down his list of potential suitors. He added that one of his requests is that his trainer and interpreter be included in any MLB agreement.
“I’m thinking of trying to make the best choice,” Imai said. “With family to consider as well, I need to make a good decision.”
Main Photo Credits: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images