Home / Sports / Cubs Lock Up Imanaga for 2026 Season
Cubs Lock Up Imanaga for 2026 Season
25 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Shota Imanaga accepted a $22.025 million qualifying offer.
- He will play for the Chicago Cubs in 2026.
- Teammate praises Imanaga's fearless pitching style.
Shota Imanaga will remain with the Chicago Cubs in 2026 after accepting a $22.025 million qualifying offer. This decision prevents the influential pitcher from entering free agency and keeps him at Wrigley Field for another season.
General Manager Carter Hawkins described the move as an easy choice, emphasizing Imanaga's value to the team. Pitcher Jameson Taillon lauded Imanaga's open collaboration with coaches and medical staff, as well as his aggressive, "fearless" pitching style characterized by a dominant fastball.
Imanaga, who joined the Cubs in January 2024, has become a fan favorite. Despite missing part of the 2025 season with a hamstring injury, the team and its fans are hopeful for his full participation and continued success in 2026.
