Right-handed pitcher Tatsuya Imai has initiated the process to become eligible for the Major League Baseball (MLB) posting system. This means he will be available to be signed by MLB teams as a free agent, starting Wednesday and until January 2nd.
Imai joins standout infielder Munetaka Murakami, whose 45-day deadline to sign expires on December 22.Imai, a 27-year-old right-handed pitcher, had an outstanding season with the Seibu Lions of the Pacific League, recording a 10-5 record and a 1.92 ERA. In 163 2/3 innings, he managed to strike out 178 batters.
In his eight seasons with Seibu, Imai has a record of 58-45 with an ERA of 3.15. He has achieved 907 strikeouts in 963 2/3 innings and has been selected for the All-Star team on three occasions.
A milestone in his career was April 18th, when he pitched eight innings in a combined no-hitter against Fukuoka. Furthermore, on June 17th, he achieved 17 strikeouts against Yokohama, surpassing the previous team record of Daisuke Matsuzaka, who had achieved 16 strikeouts in 2004.
According to MLB’s posting agreement with Nippon Professional Baseball, the posting fee would be 20% of the first $25 million of a Major League contract, including bonuses and earned options. The percentage is reduced to 17.5% of the next $25 million and to 15% of any amount over $50 million.
Additionally, a 15% surcharge would be applied to any bonus earned, salary increases, and options exercised.
