According to Heavy.com, the Chicago Cubs have broken their offseason silence by securing a tentative deal with Japanese pitcher Shōta Imanaga. This announcement comes after a slow start to the offseason for the Cubs.
Key Takeaways:
* The Chicago Cubs secure a tentative deal with Japanese pitcher Shōta Imanaga, pending physical tests.
* Imanaga is set to fill the gap left by Marcus Stroman in the Cubs’ starting rotation.
* The deal with Imanaga could be up to $80 million if all options are exercised.
* Potential future acquisitions for the Cubs include Free Agents Cody Bellinger and Rhys Hoskins.
A Deliberate First Step in Free Agency
The Cubs secured the 30-year-old Imanaga after his successful career with the Yokohama Bay Stars in Nippon Professional Baseball. Imanaga recently posted a 2.66 ERA with 188 strikeouts in 159 innings in his last season, contributing significantly to Japan’s 2023 World Baseball Classic win.
Notably, Imanaga relies heavily on his distinct low-90s fastball, which he utilized almost 60% of the time in 2023. His adept use of the slider generated a close-to-40% strikeout rate, demonstrating his pitching prowess.
Imanaga’s Tentative Deal Explained
Following a physical examination scheduled for Wednesday, Imanaga’s tentative agreement, if successful, will see him join the Cubs’ starting rotation. The team includes left-hander Justin Steele and right-handers Kyle Hendricks, Jameson Taillon, and Javier Assad.
MLB Network’s Jon Morosi reported that the finalized deal would secure Imanaga for several years with an average annual value estimated around $15 million. With these terms, it appears that the Cubs may have landed a better deal than anticipated.
The contract could reach $80 million, including player and team options, according to MLB Insider Jon Heyman. This suggests that Imanaga’s contract could span five to six years, guaranteeing the player one to two seasons.
Future Cubs Acquisitions on the Cards?
With key player Marcus Stroman opting out of his contract at the end of the 2023 season, the Cubs had a critical spot to fill. Their initial movement with Imanaga in free agency aligns with this need. However, with multiple slots still open in the roster, it’s predicted that the Cubs will continue making strategic acquisitions.
Notably, the team is yet to substitute left-handed slugger Cody Bellinger. Speculations lean towards the Cubs retaining their former player triggered by the January 7 report citing the Cubs’ ‘serious interest.’
Additionally, free agent first baseman Rhys Hoskins might be a potential fit for the Cubs. Hoskins’ ability to play as a designated hitter and first base is likely a substantial factor for the Cubs.
With high playoff aspirations and a roster needing reinforcement, the Cubs’ commitment to Imanaga could signal a shift in strategy determination this winter. The team’s fans will undoubtedly watch for further acquisition developments in the Windy City.