With each passing day, it seems increasingly unlikely that the Chicago Cubs will try to re-sign star slugger Kyle Tucker in free agency this offseason. The rea

AL East powerhouse linked to Shota Imanaga after the Cubs decline his club option, sparking major trade buzz around the star left-hander

As a rookie, Imanaga took the league by storm, posting a 2.91 ERA over 173 1/3 innings and earning down-ballot Cy Young votes.

Shota Imanaga is now a free agent after a series of contract decisions initiated by the Chicago Cubs, league sources confirmed Tuesday, leaving the Japanese pitcher to weigh his future options.

A person familiar with the decision tells The Associated Press that left-hander Shoto Imanaga became eligible for free agency when the Chicago Cubs declined an option to keep his contract by guaranteeing $57 million for the 2026-28 seasons and he turned down a $15.

The Chicago Cubs' marriage with outfielder Kyle Tucker appears likely to be short-lived. Tucker is thought to be seeking at least $300 million in free

The Reds are facing free agent decisions on several of their own pitchers: Zack Littell, Nick Martinez, Emilio Pagán, and Wade Miley. Tony Santillan, Graham Ashcraft and Connor Phillips are their top returning leverage relievers.

The Chicago Cubs have until Thursday to extend left-hander Shota Imanaga a $22.025 million qualifying offer for 2026.