After a tough rookie season, Tatsuya Imai will give it another go in Houston.
The Astros starter picked up his $18-million player option for 2027 on Thursday, according to multiple reports.
Imai, who joined the Astros from NPB's Saitama Seibu Lions, also has another $18-million option for 2028.
The 28-year-old right-hander pitched in 23 games for the Astros this season, including 15 starts. He posted a 4.93 ERA and 1.42 WHIP while striking out 97 batters and walking 51 across 76.2 innings.
Imai will likely return to a rotation that also includes ace Hunter Brown and righty Cristian Javier as the Astros look to return to the post-season.
