Tatsuya Imai gets a cool gesture from fans during Rockets-Suns
The Houston Rockets welcomed a special guest to the Toyota Center on Monday as they faced the Phoenix Suns. Houston Astros pitcher Tatsuya Imai was on hand to watch the game on the field.
Imai recently signed a three-year, $54 million contract with the Astros after spending nine years with the Saitama Seibu Lions in his native Japan.
The 27-year-old star is already acclimatizing in Houston, and cheering for the Rockets should only earn him more fans.
The crowd gave him a big round of applause when he was introduced by the stadium announcer in the first quarter. Imai stood up and confessed a warm welcomewhile also signing a baseball.
X fans were also delighted to see Imai attend the game.
“Bro, he’s everywhere. I love this guy already!” he said @kadenlk44.
“My boy loves it already. I feel like he’s going to cook,” he added @Clutchfan199.
“He’s already locked in with the city,” echoed @DubIslegend.
“Good Luck Charm,” claimed @ultimatenovason.
“This guy’s already a celebrity, and he hasn’t thrown a punch,” commented @fluker_lane.
With all the hype surrounding him, Imai is expected to boost the Astros, who missed the playoffs for the first time since 2016 after an 87-75 record.
It will be interesting to see how Imai adjusts to MLB, especially with all the pressure and comparisons to fellow Japanese and Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto.
meanwhile, The rockets did not disappoint Imaias they defeated the Suns, 100-97, to improve to 22-11. Kevin Durant led the way with 26 points and 10 rebounds.
2026-01-06 04:21:00
