WATCH: Shota Imanaga ready to see Cubs play in Japan

Tony Crumpton - Senior Editor - Tuesday, February 11 2025

Chicago Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga spoke for the first time at spring training to discuss pitching in Japan, expectations for the 2025 season and more.

Watch the interview below:

Video summary/cliff-notes

(00:00 - 01:08): Shota Imanaga discusses his goals for spring training, emphasizing the importance of continuing his off-season work. He uses the pitching lab to ensure his throws are effective at the MLB level.

(01:08 - 02:13): He talks about constantly improving his pitching and adapting his skills for high-level MLB competition.

(02:13 - 03:16): Imanaga expresses excitement about pitching in Japan, acknowledging the responsibility that comes with it. He wants to perform well in front of both Japanese and Cubs fans.

(03:16 - 04:21): He highlights the significance of playing in Japan, mentioning that Japanese fans usually have to wake up early to watch MLB games, but this time, they can see him at a normal time.

(04:21 - 05:27): Imanaga confirms that his physical condition is game-ready and mentions that Cubs manager Craig Counsell advised him not to overexert himself but rather maintain consistency in his routine.

(05:27 - End): He anticipates teammates asking for recommendations on Japanese food and places to visit, planning to be a helpful guide. He jokes that his teammates will now understand what it's like to be in a foreign country, just as he experienced when moving to the U.S.