Astros' thin rotation could take another hit

The Houston Astros are counting on Tatsuya Imai to be a key part of their rotation. Instead, they may need to prepare for his absence.

Chandler Rome of The Athletic reported that Imai is heading back to Houston to undergo testing on what is being called a "tired arm." More information will be revealed after Imai is examined.

Imai has had an uneven beginning to his major league career, surrounding a strong showing on April 4 with a pair of disastrous outings. His start on Friday was particularly putrid, allowing three runs on a hit, four walks and a hit batter while recording one out.

Two possible explanations for Tatsuya Imai's struggles with Houston Astros

Imai initially had another explanation for his struggles on Friday, telling reporters through his interpreter that the mound in Seattle was hard and he struggled to adjust to the weather. Likewise, Imai feels that his mechanics are off with runners on base.

These struggles coincide with some of the potential concerns when Imai was posted. He had struggled with his command during his time in Japan, although that steadily improved year to year. At 5-foot-11 and 176 pounds, he is smaller than the typical starting pitcher, leading to concerns as to whether or not he could withstand a full season in the rotation. Those questions are now amplified given his inability to throw strikes and possible arm issues.

The Astros rotation had already suffered a pair of significant losses with Hunter Brown and Cristian Javier landing on the injured list with Grade 2 strains of their right shoulders. If Imai needs time on the IL, the Astros rotation will be that much thinner.