Chicago, IL – The Chicago Cubs have made a significant move this offseason, reaching an agreement with pitcher Shota Imanaga on a four-year, $53 million contract, league sources revealed. The deal includes an option for the team to extend Imanaga’s contract for a fifth year, potentially raising the overall value to $80 million. The Cubs officially announced the agreement on Thursday, but did not disclose the specific terms.
Imanaga, a left-handed pitcher, joins the Cubs after spending eight seasons with the Yokohama DeNA BayStars in Japan. The 30-year-old gained attention by helping Japan win last year’s World Baseball Classic. As part of the agreement, the Cubs will pay a posting fee of nearly $10 million to Imanaga’s former club in Nippon Professional Baseball.
Despite their deliberate approach to free agency this winter, the Cubs had not made any signings until Imanaga’s deal. The team still has financial flexibility and several gaps in their roster to address. Fans and media have been eagerly waiting for the front office to make moves, with several notable free agents available, including Cody Bellinger, Rhys Hoskins, and Matt Chapman.
The Cubs will rely on Imanaga to provide depth to their pitching staff, rather than being a top-of-the-rotation starter. The team values his left-handed presence and hopes he can enhance their pitching arsenal. With a strong game-planning system and a manager known for outperforming expectations, the Cubs will look to maximize Imanaga’s contributions to compete in a weak division and secure a spot in the expanded playoffs.
This signing comes as the Cubs Convention approaches, where fans will have the opportunity to learn more about the team’s plans for the upcoming season. The Cubs have made other notable moves this offseason, including signing pitcher Jameson Taillon to a four-year, $68 million contract.
In conclusion, the Chicago Cubs have made a significant signing by bringing in pitcher Shota Imanaga on a four-year, $53 million contract. This move demonstrates the team’s commitment to strengthening their roster and their determination to compete in the upcoming season.