One of the most sought-after players available in free agency is expected to make his decision on where to sign soon.

Any team that is looking for a quality starting pitcher in free agency is likely going to target Japanese ace Tatsuya Imai. The 27-year-old is a three-time NPB All-Star who posted a 1.92 ERA across 24 appearances in the 2025 season for the Saitama Seibu Lions.

With the winter meetings quickly approaching, ESPN's Jeff Passan reported that Imai is moving and that the 27-year-old hurler is expected to sign with a team soon.

"Japanese stars: The posting window for corner infielder Munetaka Murakami ends Dec. 22, and even if he doesn’t sign at the Winter Meetings, it will be soon thereafter," Passan posted to Threads on Sunday. "The market for right-hander Tatsuya Imai is m

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