Astros Pitching Woes and Mariners' Offensive Struggles Highlight MLB News

From Tatsuya Imai's adaptation struggles to a potential Cy Young-winning closer, the latest MLB news has plenty of storylines.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:50pm

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The latest MLB news includes updates on Houston Astros pitcher Tatsuya Imai's difficulties adjusting to the majors, the team's ongoing pitching woes, the Seattle Mariners' offensive struggles, and the possibility of a closer winning the Cy Young award this year. The report also touches on other notable developments around the league, such as the Boston Red Sox's lack of a dominant hitter, Bryce Harper's strong performance in Philadelphia, and the Pittsburgh Pirates' emerging shortstop prospect.

Why it matters

These stories highlight the competitive nature of Major League Baseball, with teams and players facing various challenges and opportunities throughout the season. The Astros' pitching struggles and the Mariners' offensive woes could impact their playoff chances, while the potential for a closer to win the Cy Young award would be a significant milestone in the sport.

The details

Tatsuya Imai, the Astros' highly touted Japanese pitcher, is struggling to adapt to life in the MLB, just when his team needs him to be a star. The Astros are also exploring options to bolster their starting rotation, with Cody Bolton potentially getting another start on Sunday. Meanwhile, the Mariners' offense has been a source of frustration, with the team failing to capitalize on the Astros' recent struggles. On a positive note, Kenley Jansen is making a case for the Cy Young award with his dominant closer performances.

  • Tatsuya Imai has been struggling since joining the Astros earlier this season.
  • Cody Bolton may get the start for the Astros on Sunday.
  • The Mariners have been struggling offensively, especially against the Astros.

The players

Tatsuya Imai

A highly touted Japanese pitcher who is currently struggling to adapt to life in the MLB with the Houston Astros.

Cody Bolton

A pitcher for the Houston Astros who may get the start on Sunday as the team looks to bolster their starting rotation.

Kenley Jansen

A dominant closer for an MLB team who is making a case for the Cy Young award this season.

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What they’re saying

“Ken Rosenthal says the Red Sox lack an 'Aircraft Carrier' hitter.”

— Ken Rosenthal

What’s next

The Astros will continue to monitor Tatsuya Imai's progress and determine if Cody Bolton will get the start on Sunday. The Mariners will look to address their offensive struggles as they aim to keep pace in the AL West.

The takeaway

This MLB news roundup highlights the challenges and opportunities facing teams and players throughout the season. The Astros' pitching woes, the Mariners' offensive struggles, and the potential for a closer to win the Cy Young award all demonstrate the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the sport.