MESA, Ariz. – The air around Cubs starter Shota Imanaga carried a distinct energy Tuesday afternoon, not just from the buzz of spring training, but from the unusually large contingent of Japanese media present. With numerous MLB stars preparing to depart for the World Baseball Classic in Tokyo, Imanaga found himself at the center of attention, fielding questions from reporters familiar with covering the game’s biggest names in Japan. The scene underscored the growing anticipation surrounding both the tournament and Imanaga’s pivotal role in the Chicago Cubs’ aspirations for a championship run this season.
Imanaga’s decision to remain with the Cubs during this crucial period speaks to his commitment to refining his game and building strength after a challenging finish to the 2025 season. While his compatriots prepare to represent Samurai Japan, Imanaga is focused on solidifying his delivery and regaining the form that made him a standout rookie in 2024. This dedication is particularly important as the Cubs aim to contend for a World Series title, and Imanaga is expected to be a key component of their pitching rotation. He previously starred for Samurai Japan, taking the ball in the gold-medal game during their dramatic 2023 victory over Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, a testament to his international pedigree.
Despite the excitement surrounding the World Baseball Classic, Imanaga expressed his support for his fellow Japanese players, including Cubs teammate Seiya Suzuki. “Obviously, Team Japan has fantastic players,” Imanaga said through interpreter Edwin Stanberry. “From the Cubs, we have Seiya [Suzuki] out there. I think the most important thing is everybody stays healthy. And if they can win the whole thing, I’ll be rooting them on.” This sentiment highlights the camaraderie within the Cubs clubhouse and Imanaga’s willingness to prioritize the well-being of his teammates, even as they compete on the international stage.
Positive Signs in Spring Debut
Imanaga’s spring debut on Tuesday offered encouraging signs for both the Cubs and their fans. In two scoreless innings against the San Diego Padres, Imanaga showcased his signature pitch mix, featuring a fastball-splitter combination alongside a sweeper and curveball. He recorded one strikeout, issued no walks, and allowed just three hits, throwing 33 pitches and generating four whiffs on 19 swings. The Cubs ultimately won the game 6-5, adding to the positive atmosphere surrounding Imanaga’s performance.
Perhaps the most notable aspect of Imanaga’s outing was the increased velocity on his fastball, averaging 93 mph. This represents a 2.2 mph increase compared to his 2025 season average of 90.8 mph, and a step up from the 91.7 mph he consistently hit during his impressive 2024 rookie campaign. While Imanaga’s success isn’t solely reliant on raw speed – his command and deception are equally crucial – the uptick in velocity is a welcome development as he prepares for the regular season. “I desire to preface it by saying, for me, velo isn’t everything,” Imanaga explained. “But obviously, having velocity is an advantage. So, I feel like today out there, it felt like the velo was up. My takeaway was that it was a good start.”
Regaining Strength and Refining Delivery
The increase in velocity is directly linked to Imanaga’s offseason focus on regaining strength in his lower half. A hamstring injury sustained in May of last year hampered his performance in the second half of the season, leading to subtle adjustments in his delivery. Imanaga has been diligently working to address these issues throughout the spring, and Tuesday’s outing provided tangible evidence of his progress. He felt physically strong and confident on the mound, a testament to the hard work he’s place in during the offseason.
Cubs manager Craig Counsell has consistently expressed optimism about Imanaga’s ability to bounce back from last season’s challenges. “I thought Shota was in a great place [going into the offseason],” Counsell said. “I was really happy with how he left and very confident that he would put himself in a very good position, and he was ready to do that.” Counsell’s confidence reflects the Cubs’ belief in Imanaga’s talent and dedication, and their commitment to providing him with the resources he needs to succeed.
Conforto in Camp and Long’s Recovery
Beyond Imanaga’s performance, the Cubs’ spring training camp saw other notable developments. Outfielder Michael Conforto, recently signed to a Minor League contract with a non-roster invite, was in team gear and participating in workouts on Tuesday. While the signing hasn’t been officially announced, Conforto’s presence adds depth to the Cubs’ outfield options, particularly with Pete Crow-Armstrong (Team USA) and Seiya Suzuki (Japan) away competing in the World Baseball Classic. Counsell anticipates Conforto could see game action as early as Saturday or Sunday, providing valuable at-bats for players vying for a roster spot.
First baseman Jonathon Long, ranked as the Cubs’ No. 6 prospect by Pipeline at the end of 2025, is also progressing well after sustaining a left elbow sprain in a game last Saturday. Long, who is slated to represent Chinese Taipei in the World Baseball Classic, has delayed his travel to continue testing his elbow and ensure he’s fully recovered before joining his national team. “He’s doing much better,” Counsell reported. “No issue with X-rays or anything like that. The soreness is dissipating. Still a little residual soreness, but it’s the kind that’s improving every day. Took some swings today.”
Counsell on Conforto’s Mindset
Manager Craig Counsell offered insight into Michael Conforto’s approach to earning a spot on the roster. “We sat down with him this morning. I thought Michael laid it out really well, kind of where he’s at. He’s in a good place. You learn from all your experiences and it puts you in a good place. You have uncertainty when you come to camp on a non-roster deal, and I think he’s in a position to use that uncertainty in a really good way.” This statement underscores the Cubs’ willingness to give Conforto an opportunity to prove himself and contribute to the team’s success.
Looking Ahead
Shota Imanaga’s encouraging spring debut, coupled with the positive developments surrounding Michael Conforto and Jonathon Long, paints an optimistic picture for the Chicago Cubs as they prepare for the 2026 season. The team’s focus remains on building a strong foundation for a championship run, and Imanaga’s ability to regain his form and contribute at a high level will be crucial to their success. The Cubs will continue to monitor the progress of their players throughout spring training, making adjustments as needed to ensure they are fully prepared for the challenges ahead.
The next key date for Cubs fans to watch is the ongoing World Baseball Classic, where Seiya Suzuki and Pete Crow-Armstrong will represent the team on the international stage. The tournament, which runs through March 22nd, 2026, will provide valuable experience for both players and showcase their talents to a global audience. Following the conclusion of the Classic, the Cubs will resume their spring training schedule, with exhibition games scheduled throughout March leading up to Opening Day on April 1st, 2026.
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