MLB

MLB Rumors: NY Yankees reportedly emerge as frontrunners for Japanese star player

Amid widespread speculation about the New York Yankees' significant offseason acquisitions, rumors are circulating that they are particularly inclined to sign a reliever.

Yankees’ Aaron Boone confronts strike zone calls.
© Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty ImagesYankees’ Aaron Boone confronts strike zone calls.

The New York Yankees stand as one of the franchises in the MLB from which the most is expected. Their storied history and last season’s struggles are two elements that supporters frequently recall during the offseason. The rumors about potential additions have stirred excitement among the fanbase.

One of the prominent rumors surrounding the Yankees is their interest in reliever Tatsuya Imai, who has generated significant buzz in the offseason regarding his MLB future. According to Japanese media outlet Nikkan Sports, the Bronx Bombers are “fully involved” in the negotiations for Imai.

Nikkan Sports reported, “It is now certain that the Yankees will be fully involved in the bidding for Seibu Lions pitcher Tatsuya Imai,” highlighting their keen interest in the Japanese standout.

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Alongside the Philadelphia Phillies, the Yankees are the other franchise linked by Japanese media to Imai and his potential MLB debut. The prospect of acquiring a player from Japan has excited the fanbase, as they believe such additions can help achieve great success in the upcoming season.

Tatsuya Imai pitching

Tatsuya Imai pitches in the Japanese league.

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Other reported players on the Yankees’ radar

Alongside their reported interest in the Japanese standout, the Yankees are connected with rumors about other notable players in the league. Beyond their situation with Cody Bellinger, the Yankees have reportedly shown interest in a player from the St. Louis Cardinals.

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Cardinals insider Derrick Goold reported that the Yankees have expressed interest in JoJo Romero, a reliever who delivered impressive stats last season, including a 2.05 ERA over 65 games played with St. Louis.

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Yankees’ officialized coaching staff

Despite rumors regarding Aaron Boone’s departure following the Yankees’ 2025 season conclusion, the front office has confirmed the coaching staff for the upcoming season.

  • Manager: Aaron Boone
  • Bench Coach: Brad Ausmus
  • Pitching Coach: Matt Blake
  • Assistant Pitching Coach: Preston Claiborne
  • Assistant Pitching Coach: Desi Druschel
  • Hitting Coach: James Rowson
  • Assistant Hitting Coach: Casey Dykes
  • Assistant Hitting Coach: Jake Hirst
  • 3rd Base/Outfield Coach: Luis Rojas
  • 1st Base/Infield/Baserunning Coach: Dan Fiorito
  • Director of Catching/ML Field Coordinator: Tanner Swanson
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