(CHICAGO) — The Chicago Cubs have secured a cornerstone of their rotation for the 2026 season: left-handed starter Shota Imanaga has officially accepted the team’s one-year, $22.025 million Qualifying Offer (QO), ending weeks of speculation about his offseason plans.
The surprising decision—Imanaga was one of only four players across MLB to accept the QO—provides immediate and much-needed stability for the Cubs’ pitching staff.
Stability Secured, Leverage Gained
Imanaga’s acceptance of the QO caps off a complex contractual saga after both the Cubs declined a $57 million club option and Imanaga declined his own $15.25 million player option. By accepting the larger QO, the 32-year-old left-hander gets a substantial pay raise for the year while prioritizing a return to a familiar, competitive environment.
- The Benefit for Chicago: The Cubs retain a proven veteran who brings consistency, experience, and a polished arsenal. For a rotation that relies heavily on young talent like Cade Horton and the eventual return of Justin Steele from surgery, Imanaga’s presence instantly checks a major box.
- The Benefit for Imanaga: Following a season that saw him battle injury and inconsistency (particularly an elevated home run rate in the second half), the QO allows him to aim for a bounce-back year at a high salary before re-entering free agency next winter without the QO compensation attached.
Focus Shifts: One Box Checked
With the news now confirmed, Cubs fans can look ahead to 2026 with confidence, knowing a foundation of their pitching staff remains in place.
However, the focus immediately shifts to how President Jed Hoyer will round out the rest of the pitching staff. While Imanaga’s return alleviates one need, the team is still widely expected to pursue another frontline starter to provide more depth, especially given the questions surrounding the longevity of Jameson Taillon and Matthew Boyd.
Imanaga’s guaranteed slot at $22.025 million gives the Cubs clarity on their budget, allowing them to confidently pursue targets for their bullpen and position players, such as securing an elite left-handed bat.
