Chicago Cubs Central Podcast

Sho-Time OVER in Chicago???


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Host Mike Jones breaks down a shocking move out of Wrigley Field — the Chicago Cubs have rejected their team option to extend Shota Imanaga, and in response, Imanaga has declined his $15 million player option! 😱

What does this mean for the Cubs’ rotation heading into 2026?
Could Imanaga be testing the free-agent market for a bigger payday — or is Chicago planning a new long-term deal?

⚾️ In this episode:

  • 🔍 Full breakdown of Imanaga’s 2025 season stats (13-7, 3.29 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 172 K)

  • 💰 What declining the option means for both sides financially

  • 🧩 How this move affects the Cubs’ rotation plans for 2026

  • 👀 Possible replacements or free-agent targets

  • 💭 Could Shota Imanaga still return to Chicago on a new deal?

📣 The Big Question:
Did the Cubs make the right call — or will they regret letting their star lefty walk?

💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments!
And don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and turn on notifications for all your Cubs news and offseason updates.

#ChicagoCubs #ShotaImanaga #CubsCentral #MLBNews #GoCubsGo #CubsRumors #CubsPodcast #WrigleyField

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Chicago Cubs Central PodcastBy Chicago Cubs central