Yoshinobu Yamamoto was the most important prize by far in free company this previous offseason, because the beginning pitcher from Japan got here with an extremely polished talent set and big-game expertise at simply 25 years of age, which is the explanation why the Los Angeles Dodgers gave him a 13-year, $325 million contract.
Fellow Japanese ace Shota Imanaga was seen as a comfort prize, however he has been something however that with a 7-1 report and 1.89 ERA for the Chicago Cubs to this point this season, and one insider just lately revealed why so many groups missed on him in free company.
The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal just lately stated that “there were some things that gave teams pause and there’s a reason why he got 1/6th of what Yamamoto got” and talked about his measurement, his age, and his lack of high-end velocity gave groups causes to be uncertain about him.
Shōta Imanaga has shined in his rookie season to this point 👏@Ken_Rosenthal explains why so many groups missed on him in free company this previous offseason ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/amLidlXttz
— FOX Sports activities: MLB (@MLBONFOX) June 15, 2024
Imanaga is barely 5’10” and 170 kilos and is already 30 years outdated, and his 4-year, $53 million deal is already trying like fairly the cut price for the Cubs as Imanaga has outperformed not solely Yamamoto, however almost each different beginning pitcher within the league.
His infectious persona has additionally outmoded the language barrier, and Imanaga is shortly changing into a fan favourite in Chicago.
Not solely is Imanaga separating from the sector within the NL Rookie of the Yr race, however he’s additionally properly on his technique to changing into an All-Star and has a professional case for the Cy Younger award for the time being.
You possibly can’t assist however root for the man.
NEXT:
Cubs Ace Continues To Maintain Aggressive Lead In NL Race
