MLB analyst explains why Cubs should pursue Tatsuya Imai

All set to make his move to the big leagues, three-time NPB All-Star Tatsuya Imai is one of the most sought-after players on the market at the moment. Per reports, the Chicago Cubs are also one of the team keeping tabs on the starting pitcher.

Speaking to MLB Network Radio on Friday, analyst and former big leaguer Chris Gimenez explained why Imai would be a good fit for the three-time World Series champions.

"Starting pitching seems to me to be that place that they (Cubs) should be looking very heavily in," Gimenez said. "They've got some really interesting bullpen pieces. Their bullpen was actually a lot better than a lot of us wanted to give it credit for. Should they be in on (Tatsuya) Imai? Yes. Should they be in on some of these other free agents that are currently still out there? Yes, absolutely, they should be. "Because they need to continue to find depth in this rotation. We've seen injuries hamper them, which it pretty much did this playoff run as well. Injuries were the ultimate reason they ended up losing to the Milwaukee Brewers. If they have everybody healthy, I think they have a chance to beat the Brewers."

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Cubs infielder speaks about Tatsuya Imai's ability, offers insight into his best pitch

Speaking to MLB Network Radio on Tuesday, Cubs first baseman Tyler Austin, who spent six seasons in the NPB with the Yokohama DeNA Baystars, spoke about Tatsuya Imai's ability on the mound.

"The stuff is there, the makeup is there," Austin said. "I've spoken to him a little bit. He is more focused then anybody I've seen on that side of the ball over there, if that makes sense. He's dialed into his craft. "Really good stuff. I'm excited to see how it plays out for him over here. I'm excited to see where he ends up, to be honest. I think he's got the chance to be special."

Tatsuya Imai in action for the Saitama Seibu Lions - Source: Getty

Further, he offered insight into what he thinks is Imai's best pitch, his slider.

"Really good slider, different type of slider," Austin added. I actually struck out against him in one at-bat I have off him. When I came back into the dugout, I was like, 'Man, that's a digusting fork.' The analytics guy looks to me and goes, 'Hey, those were sliders.' Never seen one like it. We'll see if it translates over here or not, but it's pretty good."

Tatsuya Imai is projected to secure a deal in the range of $135 million.

Edited by Raghav Mehta