Overview
- Imanaga chose the qualifying offer after the Cubs declined a three-year, $57.75 million club option and he turned down a $15 million player option.
- He becomes one of four players to accept a qualifying offer this cycle, joining Trent Grisham, Gleyber Torres and Brandon Woodruff.
- The left-hander followed a standout 2024 (15-3, 2.91 ERA, All-Star, top-five Cy Young finish) with a 2025 marked by a hamstring absence, 3.73 ERA, 31 home runs allowed and shaky postseason outings.
- Chicago can still discuss a multiyear agreement with Imanaga despite the accepted offer, according to team and local reports.
- Kyle Tucker rejected his qualifying offer to pursue a long-term deal, positioning the Cubs to receive draft-pick compensation if he signs elsewhere.