The Baltimore Orioles are looking to rebound after a disappointing 2025 season, but they’ve got work to do if they want to compete in the loaded AL East.
Their starting rotation needs help. The O’s are relying on a young, inexperienced group of arms, and Grayson Rodriguez’s health remains uncertain heading into 2026.
The good news? There are plenty of options available this offseason. Baltimore could explore a trade for someone like Dylan Cease, or they could look across the Pacific for reinforcements.
Eyes on Japan
That’s where Tatsuya Imai comes in. The Saitama Seibu Lions lefthander is expected to be posted after the season ends, and he’s generating serious buzz among MLB scouts.
Former MLB GM Jim Bowden likes what he sees from Imai, particularly his ability to control the tempo with his secondary offerings.
“He sits in the mid-90s with his fastball but can reach the high-90s when he needs it. His best secondary pitch is a wipeout slider and he mixes in a changeup, splitter, curveball, and sinker.”
Don’t let his smaller frame fool you – Imai knows how to frustrate hitters. He’s not always throwing gas, but he can dial up the velocity when needed while keeping batters guessing with his arsenal of offspeed stuff.
Perfect Fit, Steep Price
Bowden thinks Imai would be a solid addition to Baltimore’s rotation, but it won’t come cheap. He’s projecting the Japanese southpaw to land a seven-year, $154 million contract.
That’s a significant investment for an Orioles organization that’s been more conservative with big-money deals. But given their rotation needs and Imai’s upside, it might be the type of move that helps them keep pace in a division that’s only getting tougher.
The question is whether Baltimore’s front office is ready to make that kind of commitment to a pitcher who’s never thrown a pitch in the majors.
