New York Yankees and Chicago Cubs Expected To Be Finalists To Sign Tatsuya Imai
The Japanese market could move quickly, with deadlines to sign for each international free agent rapidly approaching. The New York Yankees and the Chicago Cubs are among the teams competing for Japanese ace Tatsuya Imai. He must sign with a team by January 2 at 5 p.m., leaving him with just over two weeks to make a decision.
Yankees and Cubs Pushing For Imai
Approximately five MLB teams have expressed strong interest in 27-year-old Imai, with the New York Yankees and Chicago Cubs emerging as likely finalists to sign him, according to Francys Romero. The Cubs, who have recently added Japanese talent such as Shota Imanaga and Seiya Suzuki, would benefit greatly from Imai’s presence in their rotation. With a clear need for pitching depth, Chicago would gain a reliable and proven option in Imai.
The New York Yankees have been considered frontrunners for Imai since he declared his intention to join Major League Baseball. Eager to reestablish their presence in the Japanese market, the Yankees view Imai as an ideal fit. With Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodón expected to miss time next season, Imai would provide much-needed stability and could immediately step into a leading role in the rotation.
It remains to be seen whether the Cubs can compete with the Yankees for Imai or if his personal preferences will ultimately decide the outcome. Notably, Imai has indicated a reluctance to join a team with existing Japanese players, which is a factor that could disadvantage the Cubs, who have both Imanaga and Suzuki.
In contrast, the Yankees have not featured a Japanese superstar since Masahiro Tanaka, setting the stage for Imai to quickly become a marquee name in the Bronx.
Phillies Remain In the Race
The Philadelphia Phillies have emerged as a serious contender in the pursuit of Imai. When healthy, their rotation ranks among the league’s best, but uncertainty clouds the long-term outlook. Zack Wheeler may be nearing retirement, and both Aaron Nola and Jesus Luzardo face significant questions heading into next season.
Beyond Aaron Nola, the Phillies lack a dependable starter for the future. Even Nola has struggled with inconsistency over the past few seasons, underscoring the team’s urgent need for long-term stability in their rotation. Imai would address this gap and represent Philadelphia’s first significant international signing in years.
As Imai’s signing draws closer, competition among teams is intensifying and driving up his price. Ultimately, the decision will rest with the Japanese star as he chooses where to spend the next chapter of his Major League career.
