Houston manager Joe Espada announced that starter Tatsuya Imai will pitch out of the bullpen for the weekend series against the Texas Rangers after a rough start. Imai gave up two runs, got only two outs, and walked four in his last start against the Angels.

The right‑hander, in his first season with the Astros, signed a three‑year, $54 million contract after eight seasons in Japan. He posted a 6‑4 record with a 5.83 ERA and 72 strikeouts in 58⅔ innings, showing inconsistency—six‑plus inning work in a combined no‑hitter versus the Rangers on May 25, but three or fewer innings in five of his 15 starts, including three first‑inning exits.

Espada said the bullpen shift is temporary for this series, noting that Imai has prior relief experience in Japan and expects him to adapt quickly. The manager plans to give him a few innings during the series and will work on specific issues identified in his last start, aiming to get him back to starter form when ready.

Espada emphasized a step‑by‑step approach, ensuring Imai has enough time to settle into relief duties before considering longer changes.