Cubs and Imanaga Explore Future Options
As the dust settles after the World Series, the Chicago Cubs and pitcher Shota Imanaga are contemplating their future, both together and apart. Following the conclusion of the season, the Cubs opted not to exercise their option on Imanaga’s current contract, a decision mirrored by the pitcher, who also declined his option. However, in a surprising twist, the Cubs extended a qualifying offer worth $22 million, leaving Imanaga with a decision to make by November 18.
Jed Hoyer Reflects on the Decision
Cubs President of Baseball Operations, Jed Hoyer, took the time to address the media at the general managers’ meetings in Las Vegas, shedding light on the rationale behind the team’s decision to forgo Imanaga’s option. Speaking with reporters, Hoyer explained that both parties felt the original options did not reflect their true value.
“We obviously value Shota a ton,” Hoyer stated. “I think he was amazing for us as a pitcher and a teammate. I don’t want to close that door completely by any stretch. But ultimately, we didn’t think that the club option was the right value, and he didn’t think that the player option was the right value, and you know, that happens.”
Even with the option declined, Hoyer emphasized that the door remains open for discussions. “Clearly, we made him a qualifying offer and there’s nothing that prohibits us from still talking to him. So, I don’t want to close that door, but obviously, like I said, the way that we valued the club option and the way he valued the player option, we obviously didn’t meet up there.”
Next Steps for Imanaga
With the qualifying offer on the table, Imanaga faces a pivotal moment in his career. He has until mid-November to weigh his options, which could shape not only his future but also that of the Cubs as they look to build their roster for the coming season. The uncertainty looms large, but both sides seem to want to keep the lines of communication open as they navigate this critical juncture.
