MLB analyst gets blunt as Giants’ cheap pitching targets undercut their Tatsuya Imai chase

The San Francisco Giants have reportedly dropped out of the race to sign Japanese pitcher Tatsuya Imai, despite earlier rumors linking the two parties. The Giants, who currently have a payroll of over $138 million allocated for 2026, are hesitant to take on Imai’s contract due to market projections.

According to MLB insider Buster Olney, the Giants are not looking to pursue high-priced free agents like Imai. Instead, they are focusing on more moderately priced options to strengthen their pitching rotation.

Imai, who had expressed a desire to beat the Dodgers to a title on a Japanese TV program, was seen as a perfect fit for the Giants. His impressive performance in the Nippon Professional Baseball league, where he recorded a 1.92 ERA, put him in the same category as established MLB starters like Framber Valdez and Dylan Cease.

However, with the Giants having a history of only offering three contracts over $150 million in the past, including deals for Matt Chapman and Willy Adames, they are cautious about deviating from their financial strategy. Buster Posey, the team’s President of Baseball Operations, understands the importance of maintaining financial discipline, especially with a projected payroll of $158 million for 2026.

Instead of pursuing Imai, the Giants are turning their attention to pitchers like Zac Gallen, Ranger Suarez, and Merrill Kelly. Gallen, projected for a four-year $76 million contract, and Suarez, projected for $92 million, are seen as more affordable options for the Giants. Kelly, a veteran pitcher entering his age-37 season, could also be considered for a modest contract.

Overall, the Giants are looking to bolster their rotation with cost-effective options, rather than making a splash in the free agent market. With a focus on financial prudence and strategic acquisitions, the Giants are aiming to build a competitive team for the upcoming season.

Edited by R. Nikhil Parshy.