Astros' Joe Espada Excited for Tatsuya Imai's MLB Debut

Astros manager looks forward to seeing the young pitcher compete in his first major league start.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 5:37pm

Houston Astros manager Joe Espada expressed his excitement for pitcher Tatsuya Imai's upcoming MLB debut in the team's series finale against the Los Angeles Angels. Espada said he hopes to see Imai go out and compete, showcasing his stuff and allowing the team to split the series before facing the Boston Red Sox.

Why it matters

Imai's debut is highly anticipated, as the young pitcher has drawn a lot of attention after a successful career in Japan. His performance could set the tone for the Astros' season and provide a boost to the team as they prepare to face a tough opponent in the Red Sox.

The details

Imai, who recently joined the Astros organization, is set to make his first major league start in the team's series finale against the Angels. Espada said he wants to see Imai 'go out there and compete,' noting the 'excitement in the ballpark' and the importance of Imai delivering a 'good start' to help the team split the series before facing the Red Sox.

  • Tatsuya Imai is set to make his MLB debut on March 29, 2026.

The players

Joe Espada

The manager of the Houston Astros, who is excited to see Tatsuya Imai make his MLB debut.

Tatsuya Imai

A young pitcher who is making his MLB debut with the Houston Astros after a successful career in Japan.

Los Angeles Angels

The Astros' opponent in the series where Imai will make his debut.

Boston Red Sox

The next opponent the Astros will face after their series against the Angels.

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What they’re saying

“For him to just go out there and compete. The excitement in the ballpark, I feel it. We need a good start from him. He's prepared; he's excited. He can allow us to split the series and get ready for the Red Sox.”

— Joe Espada, Astros Manager

“There's going to be a lot of fans [in the stands] and [facing] Major League hitters for the first time. There's definitely going to be some nervousness, but it's up to me to use it as a positive, or as an enemy to myself. I just feel like if I can produce the way I did in Japan, it would be fine.”

— Tatsuya Imai

What’s next

If Imai has a strong debut, it could set him up for a successful season with the Astros and help the team as they prepare to face the Boston Red Sox.

The takeaway

Imai's MLB debut is highly anticipated, with Astros manager Joe Espada expressing excitement to see the young pitcher compete at the highest level. Imai's performance could have a significant impact on the Astros' season as they look to build momentum heading into a matchup with the tough Boston Red Sox.