Despite the Chicago Cubs missing out on top Japanese free agents Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the signing of Shota Imanaga appears to be a major win for them. Imanaga, a left-handed pitcher from Japan, joined the Cubs on a four-year, $53 million deal and has exceeded expectations in his initial outings in America.
Despite facing injuries to key players like Cody Bellinger, Seiya Suzuki, and Justin Steele, the Cubs are just one game behind in the National League Central, largely due to Imanaga’s stellar performance.
With a perfect 5-0 record and an impressive 0.78 ERA, along with maintaining a low WHIP and striking out 35 batters in 34 2/3 innings, Imanaga has demonstrated remarkable control on the mound.
Although concerns existed about his susceptibility to home runs, he has only given up two so far. Joel Reuter of Bleacher Report even predicted him as a potential All-Star for the 2024 season, highlighting his exceptional start.
With Steele set to return soon, the Cubs could boast one of the most formidable pitching duos in baseball if Imanaga maintains his current form.
