Cubs Rely on Imanaga’s Craftiness for Postseason Success
Shota Imanaga, the left-handed pitcher for the Chicago Cubs, may not have taken the mound for a postseason game yet, but he is no stranger to high-stakes situations. The 32-year-old showcased his talent on the international stage as he started for Team Japan in the championship game of the 2023 World Baseball Classic, contributing to a thrilling 2-1 victory over Team USA. With over 1,000 innings logged in Nippon Professional Baseball and an impressive 24-10 record alongside a 3.04 ERA across 51 Major League starts, Imanaga has established himself as a formidable presence. This track record has instilled confidence in the Cubs, who currently sit atop the National League Wild Card standings, as they set their sights on October glory.
Imanaga’s Impact on the Cubs
Signed as a free agent ahead of the 2024 season, Imanaga has quickly become one of the standout pitchers in the league. His stellar performance includes an All-Star appearance and a remarkable combined no-hitter. Cubs manager Craig Counsell expressed his admiration for Imanaga, stating, “Shota has spoiled us from Day 1 in terms of how good he’s been.” He noted that Imanaga has consistently passed every test thrown his way. “Last year, there were questions about how he would fare the second time facing a team. But he’s navigated the league multiple times now and shown his prowess in game planning and execution.”
Precision Over Velocity
Imanaga’s pitching style is defined by his strategic use of a four-seam fastball and a split-finger pitch. While his fastball may not boast the highest velocity, it is his pinpoint accuracy that sets him apart. He ranks in the top 4% of MLB in walk rate at just 4.6%, complemented by a chase rate of 31.0%, according to Baseball Savant. This combination of precision and deception makes Imanaga a challenging puzzle for opposing teams to solve.
Counsell elaborated on Imanaga’s approach, saying, “Teams have tried to formulate plans against him. Some have focused on attacking the high fastball, while others have opted for patience with the split-finger. However, he executes at such a high level, and the differences in his pitches, combined with his crafty ability to mix in other looks, allow him to stay one step ahead. He has a knack for sensing what the opposing team is trying to do, which ultimately leads to his success on the mound.”
Looking Ahead to October
The Cubs’ confidence in Shota Imanaga is palpable as they prepare for the postseason. His blend of experience, strategy, and adaptability positions him as a key asset in their quest for a championship. As Imanaga steps onto the field this October, the Cubs and their fans will be hoping that his precise pitching can translate into postseason magic.
