Cubs Make Shocking Decision On Ace Shota Imanaga’s Contract

In shocking Cubs news, starting pitcher Shota Imanaga is now a free agent, ESPN’s Jesse Rogers reported connected Tuesday.

Chicago chose to not prime up his action for a 5th season, and past Imanaga declined his $15 cardinal subordinate option. It was primitively expected for Imanaga to stay successful Chicago.

The Cubs could still support Imanaga if nan squad decides to prime up his qualifying offer, which is $22 cardinal for nan 2026 season. If nan squad doesn’t take to elite nan qualifying offer, past Imanaga will officially go a free agent.

Imanaga conscionable vanished up his 2nd play pinch nan Cubs aft his All-Star run successful 2024. In 25 regular play starts, nan Japanese prima posted a 3.73 ERA and a 0.99 WHIP complete 144.2 innings pitched. He threw 117 strikeouts, while giving up 117 hits and 62 runs.

The ace made his postseason debut this twelvemonth during nan Cubs’ section bid run. Imanaga started 1 crippled and appeared successful another, posting a 8.10 ERA and 1.50 WHIP. He threw six strikeouts and gave up 8 hits and six runs.

The Cubs will now look to capable Imanaga’s spot successful nan starting lineup for nan 2026 season. And, rather a fewer teams looking for a beautiful beardown starter will show liking successful Imanaga successful return.

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