Tatsuya Imai Seeks His Opportunity in MLB
Right-handed pitcher Tatsuya Imai is preparing to make the jump to Major League Baseball (MLB) through the posting system. Starting Wednesday, teams will have the opportunity to negotiate and sign the player as a free agent, with a deadline that extends until January 2nd. Imai joins the also prominent infielder Munetaka Murakami, whose 45-day period to sign a final contract ends on December 22.
Over his eight seasons with the Seibu Lions, Imai has a record of 58-45 with an ERA of 3.15, accumulating 907 strikeouts in 963 2/3 innings. He has been selected for the All-Star team three times.
One of the most memorable moments of his career was on April 18th, when he pitched eight innings in a combined no-hitter against Fukuoka. Furthermore, on June 17th, Imai set a new record for his team by striking out 17 batters against Yokohama, surpassing the previous record of 16 set by Daisuke Matsuzaka in 2004. According to MLB’s posting agreement with the 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 decreases 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.
