Shota Imanaga Transitions to Free Agency

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Shota Imanaga Transitions to Free Agency

Shota Imanaga has officially entered free agency following a decision by the Chicago Cubs. The team declined its three-year, $57 million option for the left-handed pitcher covering 2026-2028. Consequently, Imanaga opted out of his $15 million player option for 2026.

Background on Shota Imanaga

Imanaga was signed from Japan during the 2023-24 offseason. Initially, he joined the Cubs on a four-year deal valued at $53 million. His contract included a complex option structure that would have activated following the 2025 season.

2024 Season Highlights

In his rookie year, Imanaga delivered outstanding performances. He made 29 starts and recorded a 2.91 ERA, achieving a strikeout rate of 25.1% over 173.1 innings. His performance earned him a spot in the All-Star Game and a fifth-place finish in the National League Cy Young Award voting.

Challenges in 2025

This year took a different turn for Imanaga. He started the season strong, posting a 2.82 ERA through his first eight starts. However, his underlying statistics were less impressive, showing a 4.59 FIP and a reduced strikeout rate of 18.8%.

Injury: A hamstring injury sidelined Imanaga for nearly two months.
Return: He pitched seven scoreless innings with five strikeouts after the All-Star break.
Struggles: His performance declined drastically, culminating in a 5.17 ERA across 12 starts end of the season.

During these 12 starts, he logged 69.2 innings and allowed 20 home runs. Despite a recovery in his strikeout rate to 23.2%, he still encountered significant issues with giving up long balls.

Long Ball Troubles

Imanaga has consistently faced challenges with home runs. In 2024, even in a successful season, he allowed the tenth-most homers among qualified starters. This year was no different; he surrendered 31 home runs, ranking fourth in the league despite pitching only 144.2 innings.

This recent trend raises questions about Imanaga’s future contributions. Teams interested in adding him will consider both his stellar rookie performance and the inconsistencies observed in his second season.