The Cubs made their first major offseason move by declining a three-year option to extend Shota Imanaga’s contract. In turn, the Japanese pitcher declined his player option for next season and elected to become a free agent. The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney bring you both sides of this story, explaining why Chicago’s front office made this decision and how Imanaga will explore his options. What is the next move for the Cubs? And where does Imanaga go from here? Follow North Side Territory all offseason for the latest news and notes.

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