Cubs’ Shota Imanaga Declines $15M Option, Enters Free Agency

UPDATE: In a stunning turn of events, the Chicago Cubs have officially confirmed that left-handed starter Shota Imanaga is heading into free agency. This development follows the team’s rejection of an option to extend his contract through 2028, prompting Imanaga to decline a $15 million player option for the 2026 season.

This decision, reported by ESPN, means Imanaga is now free to explore opportunities with other teams, significantly altering the dynamics of the Cubs’ pitching roster. The Cubs still have the option to extend a qualifying offer to Imanaga for the upcoming season, but they must make that decision by the end of the week. If he rejects that offer and signs elsewhere, Chicago would receive draft pick compensation.

Imanaga, who turned 32 this year, had a mixed performance in 2025, finishing with a record of 9-8 and a 3.73 ERA over 25 starts. His performance waned towards the end of the season, highlighted by a troubling 6.51 ERA in September. This downturn coincided with his exclusion from the starting lineup for Game 5 of the NLDS against the Milwaukee Brewers, where he was seen warming up in the bullpen but never entered the game.

After signing a lucrative four-year deal worth $53 million with the Cubs in 2024, Imanaga showcased his potential, achieving a remarkable 15-3 record with a 2.91 ERA during his rookie season. His unique pitching style, featuring a rising fastball and deceptive splitter, initially made him a formidable opponent. However, as hitters became more familiar with his repertoire, he struggled, yielding a staggering 58 home runs over his two seasons in the league.

The Cubs’ decision leaves fans and analysts alike wondering how they will reshape their pitching staff moving forward. With Imanaga’s declining option, the team may be forced to explore other avenues in the free agency market, potentially impacting their competitiveness in the upcoming season.

As the clock ticks down on the qualifying offer deadline, all eyes will be on the Cubs and Imanaga. Fans and team officials are eagerly waiting to see if he will remain with the organization or pursue a longer-term deal with another franchise. This developing story is sure to impact the Cubs’ future and the landscape of MLB free agency.

Stay tuned for the latest updates on this breaking news as the situation unfolds.