The Houston Astros introduced right-handed Japanese pitcher Tatsuya Imai to the media on Monday.
Imai, who signed a three-year, $54 million contract with the AL West club on Friday, answered questions from reporters amid his transition from Nippon Professional Baseball to the Major Leagues.
In response to a question about the upcoming 2026 World Baseball Classic, Imai said he will not play for Team Japan. He spent eight seasons with NPB's Saitama Seibu Lions and earned three All-Star selections.
"As of right now, I have no plans to participate," Imai said in Japanese at his press conference. The 27-year-old had his agent, Scott Boras, and translator sitting at the podium alongside him.
Imai to focus on upcoming season with the Astros
Imai is the first Japanese player in Astros history to sign directly from NPB. The last Japanese player to sign a free agent contract with Houston was infielder Kaz Matsui in 2007.
Astros fans may be happy with Imai's decision to skip the WBC. Obviously, health is a concern after New York Mets fans watched their former closer, Edwin Diaz, tear his patellar tendon while celebrating a win with Puerto Rico in 2023. Diaz's injury was a freak accident, but still, concerns exist.
Team Japan, which defeated the United States in 2023, should be able to manage its pitching staff without Imai. Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto are expected to compete.
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