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Shota Imanaga's future uncertain as Cubs weigh options
Chicago Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga faces an uncertain future as he approaches free agency. Despite concerns regarding home runs allowed, Imanaga recorded a team-high 11 wins this season and was the only starter in the rotation to make 32 appearances.
Media reports suggest the Cubs are facing a difficult decision regarding the 33-year-old left-hander. While his 2025 season was hampered by a hamstring injury that led to a seven-week absence, his recent performance showed signs of returning to his 2024 form. Over his three Major League seasons, Imanaga holds a career record of 35-21 with a 3.45 ERA.
Analysts note that while his tendency to give up home runs remains a concern, his durability and reliability make him a highly valuable asset in modern baseball. If he can mitigate his vulnerability to long balls, experts suggest he has the potential to become a 15-win pitcher by 2027.
Entities
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 2 SOURCES] Imanaga's career Major League ERA is 3.45. www.baseballchannel.jp · news.mynavi.jp
- [● 2 SOURCES] Imanaga recorded 174 strikeouts this season. www.baseballchannel.jp · news.mynavi.jp
- [● 2 SOURCES] Imanaga pitched a career-high 174 innings this season. www.baseballchannel.jp · news.mynavi.jp
- [● 2 SOURCES] Imanaga's career Major League record is 35 wins and 21 losses. www.baseballchannel.jp · news.mynavi.jp
- [● 2 SOURCES] Imanaga suffered a hamstring injury in May 2025 during a game against the New York Mets. www.baseballchannel.jp · news.mynavi.jp
- [● 2 SOURCES] Imanaga made 32 starts this season, the most among the Cubs' starting rotation. www.baseballchannel.jp · news.mynavi.jp
- [● 2 SOURCES] Shota Imanaga recorded 11 wins this season, the most on the Chicago Cubs. www.baseballchannel.jp · news.mynavi.jp
- [● 2 SOURCES] Imanaga will become a free agent this off-season. www.baseballchannel.jp · news.mynavi.jp