The Chicago White Sox have already had a better-than-expected offseason, acquiring Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami, among others.
They may not be done acquiring star talent from overseas.
Yahoo Sports Japan reported that the White Sox have entered the race for star Japanese pitcher Tatsuya Imai.
With the final days of Imai’s posting window fast approaching, the White Sox find themselves in a similar position to a week ago.
Just like with Murakami, the White Sox are coming out of nowhere in the final days of Imai’s posting window, which expires Friday afternoon.
The Chicago Cubs, Philadelphia Phillies, New York Yankees and New York Mets are also interested in Imai’s services, but no formal offers have been made as of yet.
Could the White Sox pull off the improbable and sign two premium free agents from overseas?
What Does Imai Bring to the Chicago White Sox?
Imai, entering his age-28 season, is one of the more intriguing starters on the market this offseason.
He is the most coveted pitcher coming out of Japan this offseason. While he won’t get nearly the contract of Dodgers superstar Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Imai’s contract projection was over $100 million.
Could the White Sox get another bargain after successfully driving down Murakami’s pricetag?
He is coming off back-to-back dominant seasons with the Seibu Lions of the Nippon Professional Baseball League, and is a three-time All-Star. During the 2025 season, in 24 games (163.2 innings), Imai posted a 1.92 ERA with 178 strikeouts.
Even more impressive was that Imai had a minuscule 0.89 WHIP.
While Imai brings a slight frame to the states (5-foot-11, 154 pounds), he has a strong fastball, changeup and slider.
His fastball averages around 95 mph, which he throws at a low, sidearm release point, giving it horizontal movement.
In addition, his slider and changeup both generate high swing-and-miss rates (46% and 41% respectively).
How Would Imai Fit in Chicago?
While the White Sox are in dire need of bullpen arms, the starting rotation is not as big a need. Given all the pitching logjam the White Sox are currently in, a young arm or two would have to be booted out of the rotation.
With young arms Shane Smith, Davis Martin, Drew Thorpe, Tanner McDougal, Anthony Kay, Sean Burke and others looking to make an impact on this year’s White Sox roster, does Imai fit?
If Imai is signed, some of the young arms can have more time to develop, such as McDougal and Hagen Smith.
His talent is undeniable. If the White Sox truly want him, they can make the sacrifices by making the necessary changes to the starting rotation.
If the deal is enough of a bargain, there is no reason General Manager Chris Getz shouldn’t sign Imai.
With Murakami already on the White Sox, having two star Japanese players would undoubtedly boost revenue and team popularity. It would put fans in the seats and be great for the city of Chicago.
Whether or not a deal is made, the White Sox’s apparent presence in this race signals a shift in how the current regime approaches free agency and the acquisition of star talent.
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