An MLB news has taken everyone by surprise, but beyond how unexpected it may seem, it’s an opportunity for several teams-including the Yankees-to acquire a quality starter who can take them to another level. Recently, it was reported that Shota Imanaga will become a free agent, automatically making him one of the main targets in this offseason.
Should the Yankees sign Imanaga?
Imanaga decided not to exercise the three-year option in his contract, rejecting a $15 million option for the 2026 campaign, according to ESPN‘s Jesse Rogers.
Now, the left-handed pitcher becomes one of the most intriguing arms on the winter open market, with the Yankees lurking to improve their rotation.
Imanaga was a star for the Yokohama DeNA BayStars in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball before signing with the Cubs for four years and $53 million, including the aforementioned options. The Japanese pitcher has been an All-Star twice and, over eight seasons, posted a 3.18 ERA in 173 innings.
In 2025, Shota Imanaga had a solid campaign with the Chicago Cubs, recording a 3.73 ERA in 25 starts and 144 innings during the regular season. However, his performance dropped in the playoffs, where he finished with an 8.10 ERA in two appearances (one as a starter).
The New York Yankees urgently need to reinforce their starting rotation heading into the 2026 season, especially considering that Carlos Rodón and Gerrit Cole will not be available at the start due to injury.
Although Max Fried, Cam Schlittler, Luis Gil, and Will Warren seem to have a spot secured in the rotation to begin the year-unless there are moves in the market-there’s still room for a high-impact addition that elevates the group’s level.
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