The New York Yankees were expected to be heavily involved with some of the top free agents this winter, including Japanese right-hander Tatsuya Imai.
While nothing appears close on any front, Imai’s recent comments suggest the market around him still hasn’t been what he expected, which is something that could ultimately work in the Yankees’ favor.
“Apparently, there actually aren’t many concrete options on the table yet,” Imai said, per SI. “And it seems that having teams show interest and receiving a formal offer are completely different things.”
The issue? Well, Imai has to sign by Jan. 2.
Even if interest is there, offers don’t seem to be, which opens the door for teams like the Yankees to jump in and get something done.
New York has made it clear that adding pitching is a priority, especially given the ongoing questions about Gerrit Cole’s health.
Imai, who has spent his entire professional career in NPB from a very young age, fits the type of starter the Yankees have shown interest in before.
He brings big-time stuff, can pitch deep into games, and looks all but guaranteed to be great in America.
If the price is lower than initially expected, it’s tough to see why the Yankees wouldn’t get involved. We’ll find out soon.
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