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)
YearIPERAK/9BB/9WHIPFIPWAR 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 –
Why Atlanta Braves Are Looking Outside the Organization
Atlanta Braves’ rotation picture is unsettled. Spencer Schwellenbach is working back from an elbow fracture, and other arms are dealing with shoulder concerns. Austin Riley’s abdominal surgery adds to the uncertainty on the roster as a whole. The Braves are trying to avoid a situation where returning pitchers are pushed too hard too soon.Adding Tatsuya Imai would give them innings they can trust while easing pressure on established starters. General manager Alex Anthopoulos has also shown interest in expanding Atlanta’s reach into the Japanese market.
How a Trade Could Be Shaped
In this hypothetical deal, Atlanta Braves would send right-hander Hurston Waldrep and infield prospect Nacho Alvarez Jr. to Houston. The Braves would take on Tatsuya Imai’s three-year, $54 million contract, which can rise to $63 million with incentives and includes opt-outs after each season.Houston would gain young, controllable talent. Atlanta would gain short-term rotation security.Also read: MLB trade rumors: New York Mets could sign $88 million Chicago White Sox Outfielder Luis Robert Jr to improve rotation and bolster title odds
Weighing the Outcome
For the Braves, the appeal is clear: reliable innings, strong recent performance, and a manageable salary. The risks include his smaller frame and the cost to the farm system. For the Astros, the move would sacrifice present value for future depth. In this scenario, Atlanta gets what it needs most right now: pitching stability.