On Tuesday, the Chicago Cubs opted not to pick up their three-year, $57 million option on Shota Imanaga and cleared the way for him to enter free agency. It wasn't a complete surprise, given his struggles in the second half and the team's desire to keep the books clean for 2027, but the decision is still a bit of a shock to the system, nonetheless. Just a few short months ago, nobody would've questioned keeping the Throwing Philosopher on the North Side. Now, he's potentially out the door, barring his acceptance of a qualifying offer if it's extended.
Cubs can't stop frustrating fans—and their Shota Imanaga decision proves it
