Shōta Imanaga is a left-handed pitcher for the Chicago Cubs and was born in Kitakyushu, Japan. Now in his second year with the team, he previously spent eight seasons with the Yokohama DeNA BayStars in Japan’s NPB. A 2024 MLB All-Star, Imanaga was also a key part of Team Japan’s championship run in the 2023 World Baseball Classic.
In 2025, he posted a 3.37 ERA and an impressive 0.96 WHIP across 24 starts. Imanga has been a standout part of the Cubs pitching unit since joining the team. Currently he’s helping the Cubs go deeper in their playoff run. The Cubs are currently down 0-2 in the second round of the MLB playoffs, to the Milwaukee Brewers and looking for a spark to move on.
What has been the most surprising or fun part of living in Chicago?
“The city. The fans. Everyone here is happy to be a part of Cubs/Wrigley. It is a very good place for me to play and be myself. Very welcoming.”
What has been the biggest adjustment for you moving from Japanese baseball (NPB) to MLB?
“Every hitter is so good. You have to adjust from pitch to pitch and you can’t make any mistakes.”
How does the atmosphere at Wrigley Field compare to stadiums you pitched in back in Japan?
“Crazy fans. Beautiful place to work. It is so comfortable to be there.”
Is there a Japanese baseball tradition or routine you’ve brought with you to the Cubs?
“From Japan my diet and my recovery routine. Most players find something that works for them early in their career since I came over with that and not as a rookie I kept most of the same.”
What’s one thing about Japanese baseball culture that you think MLB fans would appreciate if they experienced it?
“The fans and the games are so crazy and they cheer the whole game with organized cheerleaders for certain sections. Also they whistle every time a ball goes in the stands.”
Was/Is there a player that you have tried to model your game after?
“So many players have helped me. I don’t think I choose one but Paul Skenes I watch and respect and of course my Cubs teammates always are showing me things.”
Do you have a favorite pitch or one you’re currently working on perfecting?
“A cutter. I throw it in practice but not in games yet.”
What’s the excitement like in the club house for the Playoffs?
“It’s crazy fun but we still have more to do. Hope to keep going.”
