Japan’s Tatsuya Imai ‘Declares War’ on Dodgers — Reveals His Dream MLB Destination as Yankees Circle.vc
The MLB offseason has taken a dramatic international turn as Japanese pitching star Tatsuya Imai made headlines with bold comments that instantly fired up fans across both hemispheres. Speaking to reporters in Japan, Imai used what he called a “competitive declaration of war” toward the Los Angeles Dodgers, signaling he intends to challenge the league’s most powerful superteam — not join them.
But that wasn’t the only shock.
Imai also revealed the one MLB franchise he dreams of pitching for, and it’s a name guaranteed to spark buzz in New York: the Yankees.
A Bold Message to the Dodgers
With Japanese aces Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Roki Sasaki forming what many believe to be the next Dodgers dynasty, Imai didn’t shy away from the challenge.
According to local reports, Imai said he wants to face “the strongest team, not join them,” framing his comments as a competitive rally cry rather than a personal attack.
Fans quickly interpreted it as:
Imai wants to beat the Dodgers, not wear their uniform.
Imai Reveals His Dream MLB Destination
During the same media session, Imai revealed the franchise he has admired from afar: the New York Yankees, calling them a “global baseball icon” and the team he watched most growing up.
The Yankees, in turn, are already monitoring the right-hander as they continue to expand their international scouting footprint.
Industry insiders say Imai’s comments “did not go unnoticed” in the Bronx.
Why the Yankees Make Sense
Imai’s pitching profile — mid-90s fastball, sharp slider, polished command — mirrors exactly what the Yankees have been targeting in recent years. With rotation questions looming and a growing emphasis on international talent, New York is well-positioned to pursue him when he becomes available.
Possible reasons Imai fits:
- Yankee Stadium spotlight appeal
- A rotation in need of fresh, durable arms
- A franchise historically aligned with Japanese stars
- Marketability and fan engagement in Japan
Dodgers Fans React — And They’re Not Happy
Unsurprisingly, Dodgers fans didn’t appreciate being name-checked. Social media lit up with reactions, ranging from light-hearted jabs to calls for the team to “make him regret it” on the field.
Analysts noted that Imai’s comments could ignite a fun rivalry if he signs with an NL West or AL powerhouse.
What’s Next for Tatsuya Imai?
Imai is expected to explore MLB possibilities in the coming seasons, with scouts already projecting him as a potential mid-rotation starter with upside.
The Yankees have every reason to be interested.
The Dodgers?
They may have just gained a new rival — one who made his intentions unmistakably clear.
If Imai fulfills his MLB dream, the Bronx may soon have its newest international star.
