Agent Scott Boras said he’s talked with Astros owner Jim Crane about a better plan for Tatsuya Imai in 2027.

Imai opted into an $18 million salary next year after struggling to a 4.93 ERA over 76 2/3 innings in his first season in Houston. “This guy has great ability,” Boras said. “Obviously, the consistency you want to improve. We’re continuing to have meetings about it and getting him more locked in to a routine that fits in well for the Astros and us.” It’s unclear how much faith Houston has in Imai’s ability to bounce back, but one imagines he’ll get a chance to contend for a rotation spot in spring training.