CHICAGO — In a surprising turn of events, Chicago Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga has opted for free agency after both he and the Cubs decided not to exercise their mutual options. This decision, announced on Tuesday, sent shockwaves through Cubs Nation as fans grappled with the implications for the upcoming 2026 season.
As the Cubs face uncertainty, anger among fans has surged, with many directing their frustration towards Chairman Tom Ricketts and President Jed Hoyer. The reactions came swiftly on social media, where complaints about the team’s spending and management decisions dominated discussions. The news shifted focus from the NFL trade deadline, where teams struggled to generate excitement, to the immediate concerns surrounding the Cubs’ roster.
Imanaga’s journey has been tumultuous. Just weeks ago, he was a focal point during the National League Division Series against the Milwaukee Brewers. In Game 2, he faltered despite a 3-0 lead, allowing a three-run home run to Andrew Vaughn and finishing the game with a disappointing stat line of 46 pitches over 2.2 innings. Following the game, Imanaga expressed his dismay, stating, “I ruined the game.”
After the Cubs tied the series, Manager Craig Counsell opted not to start Imanaga in the decisive Game 5, instead choosing reliever Drew Pomeranz as the opener. This decision indicated a lack of trust in Imanaga’s ability to perform in high-pressure situations, further complicating his future with the team.
Despite a rocky end to the 2025 season, Imanaga had been a standout performer over the past two years. His combined 3.28 ERA in 2024 and 2025 placed him among the top pitchers, ranking 13th among those with over 300 innings pitched. The Cubs had previously invested in him, but his recent struggles with home runs—averaging 1.64 home runs per nine innings—have raised significant concerns.
The Cubs might still extend a $22 million qualifying offer, providing a path for Imanaga to remain with the team under a new deal. Yet, given his recent performance, he may feel that a fresh start elsewhere could be more beneficial. There is no shortage of teams in the league looking to bolster their pitching rotations with left-handed starters.
As the offseason progresses, questions loom large: Will Hoyer seek another free-agent starter? Can Justin Steele return to form after Tommy John surgery? Or might younger players like Javier Assad or Ben Brown fill Imanaga’s void?
Meanwhile, speculation surrounds whether Imanaga could secure a lucrative contract, despite the potential for a lockout following the 2026 season. His previous fan-favorite status, showcased in memorable commercials like his rendition of “Go Cubs Go,” adds an emotional layer to his departure, further emphasizing the stakes involved.
With the offseason heating up, the Cubs and their fans are left wondering about the future of their pitching staff and the direction the organization will take. As the clock ticks towards the start of free agency, the sense of urgency is palpable, and the Cubs must act swiftly to reshape their team for the challenges ahead.
