BREAKING: Chicago Cubs left-handed starter Shota Imanaga is officially entering free agency after both he and the team rejected contract options. This significant move comes just hours after the Cubs turned down an option to extend his contract through 2028, allowing Imanaga to decline his own $15 million player option for the upcoming season.
This decision is critical for both Imanaga and the Cubs, as they must now navigate the complexities of free agency. Imanaga, 32, had a mixed season, finishing with a record of 9-8 and a 3.73 ERA over 25 starts. Notably, his performance deteriorated in September, where he posted a troubling 6.51 ERA. He was notably absent from the starting lineup in the pivotal Game 5 of the NLDS against the Milwaukee Brewers, despite warming up in the bullpen.
Imanaga burst onto the MLB scene in 2024 after signing a lucrative four-year deal worth $53 million with the Cubs. His impressive rookie season saw him achieve a remarkable 15-3 record along with a 2.91 ERA, showcasing a unique rising fastball and a deceptive splitter. However, as hitters became more familiar with his pitching style, his effectiveness waned. Over two seasons with the Cubs, he surrendered a staggering 58 home runs, a troubling statistic given the windy conditions at Wrigley Field.
The Cubs still have the option to extend a qualifying offer to Imanaga for 2026, which must be made by the end of this week. If he declines that offer and signs with another team, the Cubs will receive draft pick compensation, adding another layer of intrigue to this developing story.
Fans and analysts alike are closely watching how this situation unfolds. Imanaga’s decision to pursue free agency could lead him to a longer-term deal elsewhere, positioning him as a valuable asset in the offseason market.
Stay tuned for updates on Imanaga’s next steps as this situation continues to evolve.