The Los Angeles Dodgers have spent the past several years building a reputation as the premier destination for Japan’s biggest baseball stars. From Shohei Ohtani to Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki, Los Angeles has become a powerhouse of NPB talent. But one of this offseason’s most coveted pitchers — Seibu Lions ace Tatsuya Imai — made it clear he isn’t looking to join the blue wave. If anything, he wants to challenge it.
“I’d rather take them down,” Imai said with a laugh during a televised interview with former MLB pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka on TV Asahi’s Hodo Station, according to MLB.com. His comments landed with force, especially given how often incoming Japanese stars publicly praise the Dodgers’ infrastructure and cultural support system.
Support Local and Independent Sports Writing – Subscribe To the LAFB Network Today!
Why Imai Isn’t Dreaming of Dodger Blue
Vote For Your Favorite Dodgers Duo: Ohtani – Yamamoto, Betts – Freeman, Hernandez – Hernandez
Imai acknowledged the appeal of teaming with Ohtani, Yamamoto, and Sasaki, but argued that beating a team stacked with that level of talent would be more meaningful. “Winning against a team like that and becoming a World Champion would be the most valuable thing in my life,” he said.
Part of Imai’s stance comes from his desire for independence as he transitions to MLB. He admitted he’d prefer joining a roster without another Japanese player, hoping to confront the cultural and personal challenges head-on. “If there were another Japanese player on the same team, I could just ask them about anything, right? I don’t really want that. I want to experience that survival vibe,” he said.
A Rising Ace Ready for the Leap
Imai enters the posting market after the best season of his career — a 1.92 ERA with 178 strikeouts across 163⅔ innings. The 27-year-old has made three NPB All-Star teams and has drawn praise from across the league. His agent, Scott Boras, said teams are stunned when evaluating him: “He leaves an indelible mark on you.”
His pitching philosophy aligns with current MLB trends. Despite standing 5-foot-11, Imai emphasized that his fastball thrives up in the zone. “The key is not aiming low,” he explained. “Almost like I’m driving it upward from below.”
The Opponent He Wants Most
And when it comes to MLB hitters he’s eager to face, Imai didn’t hesitate. “It’s Shohei Ohtani,” he said. “I really want to test how far my fastball can go against him.”
Whether he signs with a contender like the Yankees or a surprise suitor, one thing is clear: Imai isn’t chasing comfort or familiarity — he’s chasing the Dodgers.