Cubs Free Agent Target Will Sign This Week

The Chicago Cubs have shown interest in Shota Imanaga and the Japanese starter could be making his decision within the week. Imanaga's posting window closes at 5 pm ET on Thursday, Jan. 11 and according to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, his decision will "likely" come before then.

Morosi notes that five teams are pursuing the lefty as of Sunday, but didn't name the exact teams, however, the Cubs were one potential suitor per Jon Heyman of the New York Post.

With Marcus Stroman moving on in free agency, Chicago has a reason to be interested in the Japanese star.

The current rotation is looking for an ace, and while Imanaga might not be that, he has the potential to be a top-of-the-rotation guy in the future. The fifth starter role isn't filled unless the club believes Jordan Wicks can make an impact in 2024. 

Imanaga is in the second tier of remaining free agent pitchers, even with career numbers in Japan that stand out tremendously.

The 30-year-old posted an ERA of 2.80, a WHIP of 1.054, and struck out 174 in 148 innings pitched for the Yokohama BayStars last season. There are also some concerns about the amount of home runs he gave up, allowing 17 in 2023.

If he can't keep the ball out of the air in America, he won't find similar success to what he's had in Nippon Professional Baseball. MLB hitters will capitalize on mistakes if he leaves pitches up in the zone.

Imanaga has to make a decision before the 5 pm ET deadline on Thursday or his rights will revert back to the BayStars.