Tatsuya Imai Makes a Pitch for MLB: A Standout Pitcher in the Market
Right-handed pitcher Tatsuya Imai has initiated his application process through the Major League Baseball (MLB) system, opening the door for teams to negotiate his signing as a free agent. The negotiation period extends from Wednesday until January 2nd. Imai joins the also prominent Munetaka Murakami, an infielder with great power at bat, whose 45-day deadline to sign a contract ends on December 22.
Throughout his eight seasons with Seibu, Imai has demonstrated consistency, accumulating a record of 58-45 with an ERA of 3.15. His impressive strikeout total amounts to 907 in 963 and two-thirds innings. He has been selected for the All-Star Game on three occasions.
A milestone in his career was April 18, when he led his team in a combined no-hitter against Fukuoka, pitching eight flawless innings. Furthermore, on June 17, Imai set a new team record by striking out 17 batters against Yokohama, surpassing the previous mark of 16 set by Daisuke Matsuzaka in 2004. According to the MLB’s posting agreement with the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), the posting fee will be 20% of the first $25 million contract, including bonuses and options. This percentage decreases to 17.5% for the next $25 million and to 15% for any amount exceeding $50 million. In addition, an additional fee of 15% will be applied to any bonus earned, salary increases, and options exercised.
