The Chicago Cubs have lost the chance to sign Japanese pitcher Tatsuya Imai, who inked a three-year contract worth $54 million with the Houston Astros as of January 1, 2024. This development has left many Cubs fans disappointed, particularly since the team was believed to be one of the contenders for Imai’s services, alongside the New York Yankees.
Reports leading up to Imai’s signing indicated a strong interest from the Cubs, with various insiders suggesting that the team was actively pursuing the 27-year-old hurler. However, the unexpected move by the Astros highlights the unpredictability of player signings in Major League Baseball (MLB).
The Cubs could have greatly benefited from Imai’s skills, particularly as they look to strengthen their pitching rotation alongside Cade Horton. While questions remain about whether Imai’s success in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) would translate to the MLB, his contract, with the potential to reach $63 million through incentives, seemed within the financial reach of Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer.
What prompted the Cubs to step back from pursuing Imai remains unclear. Some speculate that the organization may have hesitated due to the financial implications, while others suggest that their interest might not have been as strong as reported. Insights from MLB insider Robert Murray during a live stream on January 2 have brought further clarity to the situation. He noted, “Honestly, I can say I did not see [Imai to the Astros] coming. It was obvious that a signing was coming, but every team that I checked on… it seemed like they were unlikely.”
Murray’s experience and reputation lend credence to his observations, suggesting that the Cubs’ interest in Imai may have dwindled as negotiations progressed. He mentioned that teams like the Phillies and Mets were also considered unlikely to secure Imai’s services. This raises the possibility that the Cubs were focusing their efforts on other established pitchers, such as Framber Valdez, Ranger Suarez, or Zac Gallen, who could better meet their immediate needs.
As the off-season continues, the Cubs must reassess their strategy in the free-agent market. The signing of Imai by the Astros underscores the competitive nature of MLB transactions and the challenges teams face in securing the players they covet. With the season approaching, it is crucial for the Cubs to solidify their roster to remain competitive in the upcoming campaign.
