Shota Imanaga Hits Free Agency as Cubs Decline Options, Sparking Intense Market Interest

In one of the more unexpected offseason developments, the Chicago Cubs have parted ways with starting pitcher Shota Imanaga after both sides declined their contract options for 2026. The 32-year-old left-hander, who impressed during his first two MLB seasons, now becomes one of the most intriguing names on the free-agent market. His availability is particularly surprising given his consistency and affordability compared to other top-tier arms.

Imanaga’s debut season in 2024 was a resounding success. He posted a 2.91 ERA with 174 strikeouts, earning All-Star honors and quickly proving he could adapt to MLB’s pace and power. Though he regressed slightly in 2025 with a 3.73 ERA and 0.99 WHIP over 144.2 innings, his ability to limit baserunners and provide quality starts remained evident. For teams seeking stability rather than star power, he represents a highly valuable acquisition.

Analysts project Imanaga’s next deal in the $43–45 million range over three years—an attractive number in an offseason market where elite starters could command twice that amount annually. The Cubs’ decision to move on has puzzled many around the league, especially given the organization’s recurring rotation depth concerns.

Now, several contenders are circling. The Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants, and Boston Red Sox have emerged as potential landing spots, each offering a compelling mix of fit, opportunity, and financial flexibility.

1. Los Angeles: A Natural Fit for Japanese Pitching Talent

Few organizations have embraced Japanese baseball culture as seamlessly as the Los Angeles Dodgers. With Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and top prospect Roki Sasaki already in the fold, L.A. has built an infrastructure uniquely suited to attract players like Imanaga. The Dodgers’ support staff includes dedicated cultural intermediaries, translators, and analytics personnel who specialize in transitioning Japanese players to the MLB environment. For Imanaga, the appeal is obvious. Joining a rotation anchored by Ohtani, Yamamoto, Blake Snell, and Tyler Glasnow would allow him to thrive in a low-pressure role as a dependable fifth starter—one capable of shouldering innings during the regular season while giving the staff flexibility. The Dodgers’ player development and medical programs are also among the league’s best, ensuring long-term value and health management. From a competitive standpoint, Los Angeles remains the sport’s premier destination. The team’s recent World Series win in 2025 underscored its dominance and commitment to depth. General manager Brandon Gomes has repeatedly emphasized that “you can never have too much pitching,” a philosophy that makes Imanaga’s steady reliability a perfect fit. With vast financial resources and a history of investing heavily in proven international talent, the Dodgers appear well-positioned to outbid their rivals and secure yet another piece in their formidable rotation puzzle.

2. San Francisco: Seeking Stability After a Frustrating Exit

The San Francisco Giants entered the offseason facing urgent questions about their pitching staff. Despite the excellence of Logan Webb and the return of Robbie Ray, the team’s lack of depth was exposed during its brief postseason appearance. Behind their top arms, durability and consistency became glaring weaknesses—a void Imanaga could help fill immediately. General Manager Zack Minasian has been candid about the need for multiple starting pitcher additions, particularly if the team fails to land marquee names such as Framber Valdez or Dylan Cease. Imanaga offers an ideal balance of cost efficiency and reliability, making him a prime candidate to anchor the middle of San Francisco’s rotation. Oracle Park’s pitcher-friendly conditions would also suit Imanaga’s skill set. His tendency to induce fly balls played well in Japan and could flourish in a spacious ballpark that suppresses home runs. In contrast, Wrigley Field’s volatile wind patterns occasionally inflated his numbers in Chicago, leading to a few costly outings. Ownership has signaled a willingness to spend this winter, and Imanaga’s addition could mark a practical yet impactful move—one that addresses a pressing need while maintaining financial flexibility for future upgrades.

3. Boston: Rotation Reinforcement in a Competitive AL East

After another uneven postseason, the Boston Red Sox know they must solidify their pitching to keep pace in the stacked American League East. Garrett Crochet emerged as a bona fide ace, but questions persist beyond him. Brayan Bello struggled with consistency, and Lucas Giolito remains an unreliable option heading into 2026. Imanaga fits the mold of the dependable mid-rotation arm Boston has lacked. He offers innings, control, and experience against elite competition—all without the price tag of a top-tier free agent. For Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow, who has prioritized depth and sustainability over splashy spending, Imanaga represents a smart and measured investment. The Red Sox’s payroll flexibility also positions them well to act quickly. Having missed on several high-profile offensive targets last offseason, the front office may redirect its resources toward pitching, where the impact could be immediate. In Fenway Park, Imanaga would likely slot into the No. 2 or No. 3 role behind Crochet, stabilizing the staff and giving Boston a balanced rotation built on reliability rather than star power. For a franchise seeking to reestablish itself as a contender, his addition could signal renewed focus on fundamentals and depth.