Imai to Start as Astros Adjust Rotation During Rehab and Roster Moves

Overview

• The Astros will have Tatsuya Imai make his 10th major-league start against the Guardians, a matchup that spotlights Houston’s need for consistent rotation performance while the team sits below .500.
• Imai was signed to a three-year deal from Japan in January after a 2025 All-Star season with the Seibu Lions and has shown high-strikeout outings and a .227 opponent average in his early MLB work.
• Right-hander Ronel Blanco began a minor-league rehab assignment and threw three scoreless innings after recovering from right elbow surgery, a step toward restoring depth to the Houston bullpen.
• RHP Ryan Weiss cleared waivers and was outrighted to Triple-A Sugar Land after being designated for assignment, and closer Josh Hader has produced a 1.29 ERA in limited appearances following a delayed season start.
• Yordan Alvarez continues to carry the offense with league-leading power numbers and a long on-base streak, while the Astros’ AL-best fielding percentage is helping limit runs despite the team’s 35–41 record.