Overview
- Chicago declined a three-year, $57.75 million club option for 2026–28, triggering Imanaga’s $15 million player option, which he then rejected to reach free agency.
- The qualifying offer gives Imanaga until Nov. 18 to accept for 2026 or decline and remain a free agent, with the Cubs eligible for draft compensation if he signs elsewhere.
- The Cubs are keeping the door open for a reunion and could discuss a reworked deal depending on how Imanaga’s market develops, according to local reporting.
- ESPN’s Kiley McDaniel projects Imanaga to land a three-year, $43.5 million contract, reflecting expectations for a shorter, lower-guarantee agreement.
- Analysts cite the Padres and Giants as particularly good fits based on park factors and rotation needs, with other potential suitors including the Dodgers, Cardinals, Mets, Yankees, Orioles, Tigers and Angels; Imanaga went 9-8 with a 3.73 ERA in 2025 after a hamstring strain and slight velocity dip.