MLB trade rumors: Braves eye $54m Astros star to boost roster health
Atlanta Braves are eyeing Japanese pitcher Tatsuya Imai to bolster their rotation ahead of the 2026 season due to existing pitching injuries. A potential trade with the Houston Astros could see Atlanta acquire Imai, offering immediate stability. This move would involve sending prospects Hurston Waldrep and Nacho Alvarez Jr. to Houston, securing much-needed pitching depth for the Braves.
Atlanta Braves shortstop Ha-Seong Kim fields a ball hit by Pittsburgh Pirates' Oneil Cruz (Image via AP Photo/Mike Stewart, File)
The Atlanta Braves are searching for stability as they prepare for the 2026 season, and that search has led to a growing hypothetical discussion around Tatsuya Imai. With injuries already testing their depth, Atlanta is weighing whether a bold trade could protect its rotation before the season even begins.One scenario gaining attention involves the Houston Astros, who signed Imai but could consider moving him if roster balance becomes an issue. While nothing is close to official, the idea reflects how urgent Atlanta’s pitching situation has become.
Who Tatsuya Imai Is as a Pitcher
Tatsuya Imai is a 27-year-old right-hander from Kanuma, Japan, listed at 5’11” and 154 pounds. He is not a power pitcher in the traditional sense. His success has come from command, movement, and the ability to miss bats without giving away free passes.
Those traits stood out during his time with the Saitama Seibu Lions and carried into his most recent seasons.His 2025 performance was the clearest example of his value. He limited baserunners, struck out hitters at a high rate, and kept runs off the board better than almost anyone in Japan.
Tatsuya Imai wears Seibu Lions' jersey during a news conference in Tokorozawa (Image via AP)
Year
IP
ERA
K/9
BB/9
WHIP
FIP
WAR
2023
133.0
2.30
8.80
4.13
1.11
3.20
-
2024
173.1
2.34
9.71
3.63
1.17
2.51
-
2025
117.2
1.76
10.25
2.52
0.90
1.98
-