Houston Astros rookie Tatsuya Imai faced an unexpected challenge in his spring training debut, getting struck by a comebacker during a scoreless inning against the New York Mets. The Japanese right-hander, who signed a $54 million, three-year contract in January, allowed a leadoff single to Marcus Semien before the ball ricocheted off his lower right leg.

Imai, checked by an athletic trainer, stayed in the game and retired the next three batters on just 10 pitches, reaching 95 mph. Astros manager Joe Espada praised his performance despite the scare, noting Imai's efficiency and composure. The 27-year-old, a three-time All-Star in Japan, threw only sinkers and changeups in his outing, with all three balls put into play coming on changeups.

While the Astros considered sending Imai back out for another inning, they opted to end his day after the leg injury. Espada expects Imai to be sore but emphasized the positive aspects of his debut. The pitcher acknowledged he was too focused on throwing strikes rather than executing specific pitches, an area he plans to improve. Imai's strong track record in Japan, including a 1.92 ERA last season with the Seibu Lions, suggests he could be a valuable addition to Houston's rotation as they adjust to life without Framber Valdez.