Overview
- Imai, who will start Sunday’s series finale against Los Angeles, gives Houston a chance to split the four-game set.
- He hit 95 mph in a pre-start bullpen, a routine the Astros have allowed him to keep, according to manager Joe Espada.
- His tune-ups included six scoreless Grapefruit League innings and 3 2/3 shutout frames on 79 pitches in a Daikin Park exhibition.
- In Japan he was a three-time All-Star, finishing 2025 with a 1.92 ERA and 178 strikeouts for the Seibu Lions.
- Espada said the club will watch his move to MLB closely and adjust his between-start routine if needed.