Will Shota Imanaga return to the Chicago Cubs in 2025?

Yes, Shota Imanaga accepted a one-year, $22.025 million qualifying offer from the Chicago Cubs.

Are the Chicago Cubs still looking for more starting pitchers?

Yes, the Cubs are actively monitoring free agents and the trade market for additional starting pitching.

What caused Shota Imanaga's performance to decline?

Imanaga experienced a midseason hamstring injury which affected his mechanics and confidence, impacting his performance.

Home / Sports / Cubs' Imanaga Stays, But Pitching Hunt Continues

Cubs' Imanaga Stays, But Pitching Hunt Continues

9 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Shota Imanaga accepted a $22.025 million qualifying offer from the Cubs.
The Cubs are actively pursuing additional starting pitchers this offseason.
Imanaga is working to improve after a mid-season hamstring injury.

Cubs' Imanaga Stays, But Pitching Hunt Continues

Shota Imanaga has accepted a $22.025 million qualifying offer from the Chicago Cubs, a move that provides the team with pitching depth while not completely derailing their offseason plans. Club president Jed Hoyer expressed optimism that Imanaga can recapture his dazzling 2024 performance, which saw him place highly in Cy Young and Rookie of the Year voting, despite a midseason hamstring injury and a disappointing postseason.

The Cubs are not resting on their laurels, however, as they continue their aggressive pursuit of additional starting pitching talent. Their radar includes Japanese pitcher Tatsuya Imai, Michael King, and Zac Gallen, signaling a clear priority to bolster the rotation for both the regular season and a potential playoff run. The team is also open to adding a swingman to further enhance pitching flexibility.