Cubs and Free Agent in Contract Limbo
The Chicago Cubs are facing an unusual situation with left-handed starter Shota Imanaga. The team declined the remainder of his contract, while Imanaga also turned down his player option. This leaves him with a choice: accept the Cubs’ $22 million qualifying offer or test the free-agent market. Players have until November 18 to make a decision.
Free Agency Awaits
If Imanaga declines the qualifying offer, the Cubs could see him explore opportunities elsewhere. Analysts are already speculating on his potential landing spots, with some projecting a move to the Texas Rangers. While Chicago could attempt to re-sign him on a more team-friendly deal, his future remains uncertain.
Rangers Could Be a Fit
Texas is actively seeking starting pitching upgrades this offseason. With Merrill Kelly expected to depart in free agency, the Rangers’ rotation could use another left-handed arm to complement Nathan Eovaldi, Jacob deGrom, and Jacob Latz. A two-year, $38 million deal has been predicted by MLB analysts as a likely scenario.
Performance and Concerns
Despite a hamstring injury in 2025, Imanaga delivered a solid season, pitching 144.2 innings with a 3.79 ERA. However, concerns remain: he allows a high number of home runs and showed a slight drop in velocity, likely due to injury. At 32, long-term contracts are unlikely.
Career Recap
Imanaga made his MLB debut in 2024 after being posted from Japan. He impressed immediately, posting a 2.91 ERA over 29 starts and emerging as a promising talent from Japan. Yet, this contract uncertainty with the Cubs has cast doubt on his long-term viability in the majors at this stage of his career.
