Shota Imanaga accepted the Cubs' $22.025 million qualifying offer, securing his return for the 2026 season.

Shota Imanaga has accepted the Chicago Cubs' one-year, $22.025 million qualifying offer, securing his return for the 2026 season. The 32-year-old left-hander declined his $15.25 million player option and the Cubs passed on his $57.75 million club option, making him a free agent. Imanaga’s 2025 season saw a steep decline after a hamstring injury, with a 5.17 ERA and 31 home runs allowed in his final 69 2/3 innings. Despite a strong 2024 rookie campaign, his home run issues and second-half struggles raised concerns. By accepting the qualifying offer, he avoids compensation restrictions and retains leverage for future negotiations. The Cubs now have Imanaga locked in for 2026, bolstering a rotation that includes Matthew Boyd, Jameson Taillon, Cade Horton, and Colin Rea, with Justin Steele expected to return from surgery.