Cubs' Shota Imanaga Receives $43.5 Million Contract Projection After Opting for Free Agency
The Chicago Cubs decided this week not to exercise Shota Imanaga’s $57 million contract option covering the 2026–2028 seasons. That move triggered Imanaga’s $15 million player option, which he declined to pursue opportunities in free agency and secure a potentially stronger long-term deal.
According to reports, the Cubs' left-handed starter is expected to receive a qualifying offer worth $22 million. The question now is what kind of contract Imanaga could command on the open market.
Projected New Deal
ESPN’s Kiley McDaniel recently projected contract values for the top 50 MLB free agents and listed Shota Imanaga among them. McDaniel estimated that Imanaga could land a three-year deal worth $43.5 million.
“After a great first year in MLB, Shota posted a 2.91 ERA in 173.1 innings last season.”
However, his 2025 season proved more challenging. A hamstring strain sidelined him for about a month, and his fastball velocity dipped slightly. Despite that, he still delivered solid statistics with a 9–8 record and a 3.73 ERA over 144.2 innings.
Market Outlook
Imanaga will be 32 at the start of the 2026 season. His experience and consistency position him as a valuable left-handed starter, though the competition in free agency remains strong. Other top southpaws such as Ranger Suarez and Framber Valdez are projected to secure contracts exceeding $100 million.
Author: TJ French, The Sporting News
Author’s Summary
Shota Imanaga declined his player option after the Cubs passed on his contract, entering free agency with projections pointing to a new three-year, $43.5 million deal.