In shocking Cubs news, starting pitcher Shota Imanaga is now a free agent, ESPN’s Jesse Rogers reported on Tuesday.
Chicago chose to not pick up his option for a fifth season, and then Imanaga declined his $15 million player option. It was originally expected for Imanaga to remain in Chicago.
Imanaga just finished up his second season with the Cubs after his All-Star campaign in 2024. In 25 regular season starts, the Japanese star posted a 3.73 ERA and a 0.99 WHIP over 144.2 innings pitched. He threw 117 strikeouts, while giving up 117 hits and 62 runs.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Cubs Make Shocking Decision on Ace Shota Imanaga’s Contract .