Astros pitcher Tatsuya Imai attributes his arm fatigue to difficulties in adjusting to American lifestyle and baseball culture. Currently on the 15-day injured list, Imai expressed concerns about differences in meal times and routines compared to Japan.
Astros' RHP Tatsuya Imai blames inability to 'adjust to the American lifestyle' while discussing arm fatigue
Now sidelined until at least late April, the right-hander spoke to reporters via interpreter on Tuesday and has some rather interesting things to say when discussing his arm fatigue. Per The Athleticās Chandler Rome, Imai admitted having trouble adjusting to the American lifestyle in baseball and outside of baseball.
When asked for an example, Imai reportedly pointed to when and where the players eat compared to how teams in Japan operate.
Itās unclear how eating in the Astros clubhouse can cause excess arm fatigue. Itās also quite possible something is being lost in translation here as well.
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - APRIL 10: Tatsuya Imai #45 of the Houston Astros reacts after being pulled during the first inning against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park on April 10, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Jack Compton/Getty Images)
Tatsuya Imai has had some issues since coming to MLB.
(Jack Compton via Getty Images)
Thatās a long list of issues for a player to have two-and-a-half weeks into his MLB career. There are, of course, adjustments that every player needs to make while moving from Japan to the U.S., but this is also stuff they should be aware of while considering teams and preparing accordingly.
The biggest adjustment for Japanese pitchers is usually the schedule, where Nippon Professional Baseball starters usually pitch once a week while MLB arms are asked to go out every five days. The Astros have so prevented Imai from having to pitch on less than five days rest.
Imai is on a contract that guarantees him $54 million through the 2028 season, though he can also opt out after 2026 or 2027.
As much as heās struggled, his injury was still bad news for a Houston organization that has already seen fellow starting pitchers Hunter Brown (shoulder strain) and Cristian Javier (shoulder strain) hit the IL this season. Itās unclear when any of these pitchers will return, which isnāt ideal considering the Astros have lost eight straight games and are in last place in the AL West with a 6-11 record.
Q&A
What did Tatsuya Imai say about adjusting to American lifestyle?
Tatsuya Imai mentioned that he struggles with adapting to the American lifestyle, particularly in terms of meal times and routines compared to Japan.
Why is Tatsuya Imai on the injured list?
Tatsuya Imai is on the 15-day injured list due to arm fatigue, which he attributes to his challenges in adjusting to life in America.
How much did the Astros guarantee Tatsuya Imai in his contract?
The Houston Astros guaranteed Tatsuya Imai $54 million in his contract when he joined the team from Japan.
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