Imai Linked to A’s as Giants Make Offseason Moves

As 2026 gets underway, the MLB offseason feels like it’s finally heating up. There’s a lot going on—Japanese stars weighing their futures, rebuilding teams locking up young talent, and contenders scrambling to patch up rotations. MLB Trade Rumors just highlighted three storylines that could really set the tone for the early months of this year, and honestly, each one might ripple across the league.

The Quiet Countdown for Tatsuya Imai

Let’s start with Tatsuya Imai, a 27-year-old righty from Nippon Professional Baseball. His posting window’s about to slam shut, and everyone’s waiting to see where he lands.

Imai’s been on MLB radars for a while as one of the top international arms available this winter. Teams from all over—like the Mets, Yankees, Cubs, Phillies, and Orioles—were reportedly circling him early on.

Final Meetings Define the Market

Lately, though, the chatter around Imai has gone quiet. That doesn’t necessarily mean teams lost interest; maybe they’re just playing things close to the vest.

This week, Imai started meeting with clubs face-to-face. That usually means he’s narrowing down his choices. The posting deadline hits tomorrow at 4 p.m. CT, so he doesn’t have much time left.

Once he picks a team, expect things to move fast. His signing could shake up pitching plans for a bunch of front offices—maybe even in ways we don’t see coming.

The Oakland A’s Bet Big on Their Core

The Oakland A’s aren’t waiting around for big trades or splashy signings. Instead, they’re doubling down on their own guys. Their latest move? A seven-year extension for first baseman Tyler Soderstrom.

Soderstrom Sets the Tone

Soderstrom had a breakout year, no question. He played 158 games and slashed .276/.346/.474, with 25 homers and 60 extra-base hits.

That kind of production, especially from someone so young, makes him a no-brainer to build around. Oakland’s front office seems to agree.

They’re also looking at other young players as long-term pieces, including:

It looks like the A’s want to grow something real and lasting, not just chase quick fixes. Maybe that’s the smart play for a club still figuring out its competitive window.

Giants Solidify the Rotation, Eye the Lineup Next

Meanwhile, the Giants in San Francisco are taking action after a pretty turbulent offseason. They needed to cover innings after Justin Verlander left, and they didn’t waste time getting replacements in.

Mahle and Houser Fill Key Gaps

They brought in righty Tyler Mahle on a one-year deal—though it’s not officially announced yet. Earlier, they signed Adrian Houser for two years.

Mahle’s salary isn’t public yet, but he gives them some depth and maybe a little upside. Now, the rotation has Logan Webb and Robbie Ray as anchors, with Mahle and Houser slotting in behind them.

That leaves just one spot open. The Giants will probably fill it from within, with guys like Landen Roupp and Hayden Birdsong getting a shot in spring training.

Offensive Upgrades on the Horizon

San Francisco has already addressed most of its pitching needs. Now, it looks like the club might shift its focus to the lineup.

The Giants have been linked to free agent Cody Bellinger. They’ve also shown interest in trade targets like Nico Hoerner and Brendan Donovan, both of whom could add some much-needed versatility and offensive balance.

 
Here is the source article for this story: The Opener: Imai, A’s, Giants