Shota Imanaga Becomes Free Agent Following Chicago Cubs Split
Shota Imanaga, a prominent left-handed pitcher, has officially entered free agency following his split from the Chicago Cubs. This decision came after both Imanaga and the Cubs opted against extending his contract, leading to a significant shift in his career.
Contract Details and Performance
Imanaga, who is 32 years old, signed with the Chicago Cubs in 2024 after leaving the Yokohama DeNa BayStars. His four-year deal was valued at $53 million. His entry into Major League Baseball (MLB) was marked by an impressive performance, showcasing his skills following a successful career in Nippon Professional Baseball.
Rookie Season Success
During his rookie year, Imanaga achieved remarkable statistics, including:
- Record: 15 wins and 3 losses
- ERA: 2.91
- WHIP: 1.02
- Strikeouts: 174 across 29 starts
His outstanding performance earned him an All-Star selection and a fifth-place finish in the Cy Young voting.
Challenges and Setbacks
However, the 2025 season brought challenges for Imanaga. A hamstring injury impacted his performance, particularly in May and June. In total, he made 25 starts but ended the season with a 3.73 ERA. Unfortunately, his numbers declined in the latter part of the season, recording a 5.17 ERA over his final 12 outings, where he allowed 20 home runs in 69 ⅔ innings.
Postseason Outcome
His struggles continued into the postseason. In the National League Division Series against the Milwaukee Brewers, Imanaga allowed three home runs in just 6 ⅔ innings, contributing to the Cubs’ early exit from the playoffs.
Future Prospects
As Imanaga becomes a free agent, he is expected to attract considerable interest from teams vying for a World Series title in 2026. His track record, coupled with his age, suggests that he could be a valuable addition to any roster.
