Cubs Lefty Shota Imanaga Enters Free Agency After Contract Rejection

Published

2 days ago

4 November, 2025

editorial

BREAKING: Chicago Cubs left-handed starter Shota Imanaga is officially entering free agency following a critical decision by the team. Sources confirm that the Cubs rejected an option to extend his contract to 2028, leading Imanaga to also decline a $15 million player option for the upcoming season.

This development is significant as it opens the door for Imanaga to seek new opportunities with other teams. The Cubs still have the option to extend a qualifying offer for 2026, which must be decided by the end of this week. If Imanaga turns down that offer and signs elsewhere, the Cubs will receive draft pick compensation.

At 32 years old, Imanaga had a mixed performance in the 2024 MLB season, finishing with a record of 9-8 and a 3.73 ERA across 25 starts. Although he burst onto the MLB scene with a stellar 15-3 record and a 2.91 ERA in his debut year, his effectiveness dwindled as the season progressed. Notably, he struggled in September, posting a troubling 6.51 ERA.

In a pivotal moment during the NLDS against the Milwaukee Brewers, Imanaga was bypassed for the starting role in Game 5, instead warming up in the bullpen without entering the game. His performance raises questions about his future in the league.

Imanaga’s contract situation is complex. He initially signed a four-year deal with the Cubs valued at $53 million, which included a club option that could have extended the contract to five years and $80 million. By rejecting the $15 million option, Imanaga now has the chance to negotiate a longer-term deal with other clubs.

The Cubs’ decision to not extend Imanaga reflects their strategic direction and could influence their pitching lineup moving forward. As the clock ticks down to the qualifying offer deadline, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds.

Stay tuned for updates as Imanaga navigates this critical juncture in his career, and what it means for the Cubs as they prepare for the upcoming season.