Scouting Report
Updated May 19, 2026
Shota Imanaga has returned to his exceptional 2024 rookie form after a disappointing 2025 season. The 32-year-old Cubs left-handed starter is posting a 2.28 ERA with 53 strikeouts across 47.1 innings (8 starts) and has been ranked #8 in MLB.com's Pitching Power Rankings. He has delivered quality starts in 5 of his last 6 outings and recently struck out 10 batters against Cincinnati. Imanaga ranks 7th in ERA, 6th in strikeouts, 6th in WHIP (0.93), and 5th in batting average against (.179) among NL qualified pitchers. His improved performance is driven by elite bat-missing ability, with metrics showing he ranks in the 98th percentile in chase rate (39.9%), 91st percentile in whiff rate (32.8%), and 84th percentile in strikeout rate (28.3%). He has become the leader of the Cubs' rotation amid multiple injuries to teammates.
About
Shota Imanaga is a sp for the Chicago Cubs.
Player Overview
SP
Chicago Cubs
Recent News
Brewers 9, Cubs 3: Sh ta Imanaga implodes and the long home winning streak ends
May 19, 2026
Christian Yelich went 2-for-4 with a walk, a double, a home run, two runs scored and two RBI against the Cubs on Monday.
May 18, 2026
Jake Bauers went 2-for-4 with a home run, two runs scored and four RBI against the Cubs on Monday.
May 18, 2026
Shota Imanaga allowed eight runs in 4 1/3 innings and took the loss against the Brewers on Monday.
May 18, 2026
Two-start pitchers: Jacob Misiorowski leads a plethora of terrific options as we pass the quarter pole
May 15, 2026