CHGO Chicago Cubs Podcast CHGO Cubs Related: Cubs Extend QUALIFYING OFFER to Shota Imanaga as Free Agency Begins
Nov 7, 2025
The Cubs have made headlines by extending a Qualifying Offer to pitcher Shota Imanaga as free agency kicks off. Hosts break down the implications for the Cubs’ offseason strategy and explore Imanaga's options—accepting the offer or testing the market. They weigh Imanaga's past performance, injury impacts, and the organization's prioritization of flexibility. The discussion also touches on recent trades, bullpen dynamics, and spending strategies heading into a busy winter, while keeping fans updated on key upcoming decisions.
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Why Cubs Declined The Three-Year Option
- The Cubs declined Shota Imanaga's three-year option due to age, injury risk, and limited payroll flexibility.
- A one-year qualifying offer preserves flexibility while still valuing him if he accepts.
Imanaga's Market Dilemma
- Shota faces a tradeoff: take the one-year qualifying offer and bet on himself, or seek multi-year security amid injury questions.
- The qualifying offer also deters some teams because it carries draft-pick compensation.
Injury Linked To Measurable Pitch Changes
- Statcast changes post-injury showed Shota's release point, extension, and splitter behavior shifted toward more tailing action.
- Those mechanical shifts likely explain increased home runs and reduced feel late in the season.