Chicago Cubs bummed by player deciding to return in 2026: Report
On Tuesday, starting left-handed pitcher Shota Imanaga signed a one-year $22 million qualifying with the Chicago Cubs.
More News: Cubs bring back star player for 2026 in offseason surprise
The Cubs chose not to pick up his three-year option at the start of the offseason following a disastrous showing in the postseason, giving up an 8.10 ERA in two games pitched (6.2 innings). He allowed four runs in the Brewers’ 7-3 win over the Cubs in Game 2 of the NLDS.
Imanaga tested free agency before deciding to sign the qualifying offer.
Chicago Cubs stunned by Shota Imanaga’s return
More News: Chicago Cubs urged to reconsider possible interest in Dylan Cease
Per Chicago sports insider George Ofman, the Cubs were “stunned” Imanaga took the offer.
“Told Cubs were stunned Imanaga accepted qualifying offer,” Ofman posted onX. “They expected to get a draft pick. Hampers their offer season spending plans. #majorblunder.”
Told Cubs were stunned Imanaga accepted qualifying offer. They expected to get a draft pick. Hampers their offer season spending plans. #majorblunder
— George Ofman (@georgeofman) November 19, 2025
Oops.
The money going to Imanaga will evidently hurt other parts of the roster in 2026. Chicago doesn’t appear to be in the sweepstakes for Kyle Turner, and this about puts the nail in that coffin.
In 2025, Imanaga went 9-8 with an ERA of 3.73 in 25 starts. He made an All-Star appearance in 2024, and Chicago will need Imanaga to pitch more like he did that season if the team hopes to return to the playoffs next year.
It’s unclear why the team made Imanaga an offer if they didn’t want him to return in 2026. He politely accepted, and now there’s an awkward situation brewing in Chicago.
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Source: https://www.chicitysports.com/chicago-cubs-bummed-by-player-deciding-to-return-in-2026-report
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