Shota Imanaga to Accept Cubs’ Qualifying Offer
Shota Imanaga is set to remain with the Chicago Cubs, having accepted a one-year qualifying offer valued at $22.025 million. This decision comes as a surprise, especially after speculation suggested that his tenure in Chicago might be ending.
Imanaga’s Contract History
Imanaga signed a four-year, $53 million contract with the Cubs in January 2024. This deal guaranteed him $23 million in the first two years. However, various options were under consideration during this offseason.
- The Cubs opted against a three-year option that would have paid Imanaga $57 million from 2026 to 2028.
- Imanaga also declined a $15 million player option for the year 2026.
Impact of the Qualifying Offer
The Cubs extended a qualifying offer to Imanaga primarily to secure compensation should he decide to sign with another team. By accepting this offer, Imanaga ensures he stays in Chicago for at least one more year, with an additional $7.025 million included beyond the initial player option amount.
If Imanaga does not reach a new contract before the following free agency period, he can re-enter the market without the qualifying offer attached. This situation eliminates potential barriers in seeking a lucrative long-term deal.
Performance Overview
In the 2025 season, Imanaga recorded a 3.73 ERA across 144 2/3 innings, showcasing a strikeout rate of 20.6% and an impressive walk rate of just 4.6%. However, his performance did reveal areas for improvement, especially concerning the quality of contact allowed.
- Imanaga allowed 31 home runs, ranking him among the highest in that category for the season.
- Despite a solid ERA, many of his pitching metrics fell below league averages.
As Imanaga prepares for the upcoming 2026 season, he will aim for a more consistent campaign to enhance his prospects for future contracts.
