Japanese right-hander Tatsuya Imai has signed a three-year deal with the Houston Astros, valued at $18 million annually with opt-outs after each season, closing the door on a potential move to the Philadelphia Phillies. Imai, 27, had a standout 2025 season in Japan, posting a 1.92 ERA. The Phillies, already committed to over $102 million in their rotation, will now focus on internal options like Ranger Suárez and top prospect Andrew Painter as they monitor the pitching market.
