Imanaga to sign $53 million, 4-year deal with Cubs

Shōta Imanaga’s contract with the Chicago Cubs, valued at $53 million over four years, features a club option that has the potential to extend the agreement to $80 million spanning five seasons.

A reliable source familiar with the terms confirmed these details to the AP on Wednesday night.

According to the terms, the Cubs have the option to exercise a 2028 extension after the 2025 or 2026 seasons. In the event the team opts not to exercise the option in either instance, Imanaga retains the right to opt out of the remaining contract, allowing him to become a free agent.

Imanaga, a 30-year-old pitcher who secured a crucial win for Japan in the World Baseball Classic final against the United States last year, has until 5 p.m. EST on Thursday for a finalized agreement to be submitted to Major League Baseball.

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This year, Imanaga delivered a solid performance for the Yokohama BayStars in Japan’s Central League, compiling a 7-4 record with a 2.80 ERA over 22 starts. During this season, he demonstrated his pitching prowess by striking out 174 batters and issuing only 24 walks across 148 innings.

Known for his distinctive throwback-style high socks, Imanaga has had an impressive career with the Yokohama BayStars, amassing a record of 64-50 with a 3.18 ERA over eight seasons. In this span, he struck out 1,021 hitters and walked 280 in 1,002 2/3 innings.

During the World Baseball Classic final, Imanaga showcased his fastball, which averaged 93.5 mph. In that game, he allowed only one run and four hits in two innings, although he surrendered a home run to Trea Turner.