In a shocking development, the Chicago Cubs declined their three-year, $57 million team option to retain left-handed starting pitcher Shota Imanaga. Imanaga did have a $15 million player option if the club declined, but he declined as well, making him an unrestricted free agent.
The 2025 free agent class had its questions, but adding Imanaga makes it instantly more interesting. The Philadelphia Phillies are expected to be big players in free agency once again this year, so could Imanaga now be on their radar?
The Phillies have been looking for a reason to dive into the Japanese market, and Imanaga could be a great way to kick that off.