The MLB offseason’s barreling toward its wildest stretch. Three big stories are pulling in front offices and fans right now. Two Japanese stars are about to make huge decisions as their posting windows tick down. Meanwhile, the Baltimore Orioles keep tinkering with a pitching staff that might look totally different by Opening Day.
Deadlines are coming up fast, and medical updates are starting to matter more. The next few days could finally shake up the market in a real way.
Deadline Approaches for Tatsuya Imai
Tatsuya Imai stands out as one of this winter’s most intriguing arms. His NPB posting window closes at 4 p.m. CT on January 2. All signs point to an MLB deal coming together soon—maybe even before you finish your coffee.
A Dominant Run in Japan
Imai, just 27, doesn’t have much left to prove in Japan. He’s coming off two monster seasons with the Seibu Lions, showing off velocity, sharp command, and a nasty breaking ball. Scouts seem convinced his stuff will play in the majors.
His age makes him even more appealing than most posted pitchers. Earlier this winter, the Cubs, Mets, Phillies, and Yankees all circled him. Lately, the chatter’s gone quiet, but that usually means negotiations have moved behind closed doors. Sometimes, no news is the best clue we get.
Kazuma Okamoto’s Posting Window and Market
Imai’s not the only NPB star on the clock. Infielder Kazuma Okamoto has a posting window that runs a bit longer, closing January 4. Teams have a tight window to get his deal done.
Power Bat with Injury Questions
Okamoto, 29, just wrapped up an elite but injury-shortened 2025 season with the Yomiuri Giants. When he’s healthy, he’s one of Japan’s scariest power bats—good discipline, real home run pop.
This time, Okamoto’s actually flying to the U.S. for face-to-face meetings, which should speed things up. He’s been linked to a handful of teams, including:
With the deadline so close, league folks think a deal could happen fast if a team steps up with the right offer.
Orioles Bolster Rotation with Familiar Arm
While everyone’s watching the international market, the Baltimore Orioles made a quieter move. They brought back right-hander Zach Eflin on a one-year deal. It’s not flashy, but it gives them some stability as they figure out their rotation.
Health Will Determine Baltimore’s Ceiling
Eflin’s still coming back from back surgery he had in August. Early reports say he might be ready for Opening Day. If he is, Baltimore could roll out a rotation of:
That’s a real upgrade over last year’s group and gives them some actual depth. Still, many thought they’d chase a true ace, and so far, that hasn’t happened.
What Comes Next
As posting windows close, recovery timelines are finally coming into focus. The next wave of offseason clarity is almost here.
Baltimore could still target names like Framber Valdez or Ranger Suárez. Of course, nothing feels certain yet.
Within days, MLB clubs will find out where Imai and Okamoto end up. It’s anyone’s guess how aggressive teams like the Orioles will get.
Here is the source article for this story: The Opener: Imai, Okamoto, Orioles
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