Cubs Pursue Talent: Shota Imanaga’s Latest Updates

The Chicago Cubs are entering the offseason with a clear focus on strengthening their pitching staff. President of baseball operations Jed Hoyer emphasized to reporters the need to enhance both the rotation and bullpen, given the team’s solid roster of position players.

Cubs Focus on Pitching Additions

The Cubs are well-stocked with players, including key figures like Nico Hoerner and Dansby Swanson, who form a strong middle infield duo. Additionally, Ian Happ, a long-time player with the team, recently earned his fourth consecutive Gold Glove award. Other notable players such as Michael Busch, Pete Crow-Armstrong, and Seiya Suzuki also ensure the lineup remains competitive.

Spotlight on Young Talent

The Cubs have promising young players like Matt Shaw, Owen Caissie, Moises Ballesteros, and Kevin Alcantara, who may break into the lineup next season. Shaw showcased his potential with a notable wRC+ of 130 after the All-Star break.

Pitching Needs Highlighted

With Shota Imanaga entering free agency and Justin Steele still recovering from surgery, the Cubs’ pitching rotation needs urgent attention. Currently, only veteran pitchers Matthew Boyd, Jameson Taillon, and Rookie of the Year runner-up Cade Horton are assured spots for Opening Day.

• Matthew Boyd: Has a history of injuries but recently completed a healthy season.
• Jameson Taillon: Missed time due to calf and groin injuries.
• Cade Horton: Finished the season on the injured list due to a shoulder issue.

Other potential pitchers, like Colin Rea and Javier Assad, could serve as stopgaps, but fresh additions are necessary.

Free Agent Considerations

Several intriguing pitchers might be viable options for the Cubs this winter, even as they prioritize budgetary constraints surrounding free-agent commitments. Notable names include:

• Dylan Cease
• Framber Valdez
• Tatsuya Imai
• Ranger Suarez
• Brandon Woodruff
• Zac Gallen

There are talks about Imanaga potentially declining the qualifying offer extended to him, but a reunion remains a possibility. Bruce Levine of 670 The Score suggested that the Cubs might explore a two-year deal with him. This could provide a suitable compromise between both parties while addressing budget considerations.

Addressing the Bullpen Challenges

The Cubs face a further challenge in their bullpen after losing key relievers like Brad Keller, Drew Pomeranz, and Caleb Thielbar this offseason. With only Daniel Palencia firmly part of the relief options, the team may explore veteran signings to bolster their ranks.

While high-profile free agent relievers like Edwin Diaz and Devin Williams seem out of reach, players such as Kenley Jansen and Pete Fairbanks may be during the offseason. Their acquisition could provide much-needed stability to the Cubs’ pitching staff as they strive for success in the upcoming season.