Why Would the Boston Purple Sox Signal Imanaga?
The Chicago Cubs signed Imanaga as a world free agent out of Japan in 2024 to a four-year, $53 million contract. After triggering an opt-out, Imanaga turned that right into a one-year, $22.025 million deal.
Imanaga was an All-Star in his first season with the Cubs in 2024, recording a 2.91 ERA in 29 begins. In 2025, he recorded a 3.73 ERA in 25 begins.
The 2026 season would show to be his healthiest season with 32 begins, however Imanaga struggled within the first half with a 4.17 ERA, then lowered it to a 3.77 ERA by the top of the yr. Imanaga struggled immensely with the lengthy ball, giving up 35 house runs in 174.1 innings.
Due to his distinctive command, Imanaga didn’t hand over as many runs as he might’ve with all of these house runs.
Whereas Imanaga doesn’t have nice stuff (common fastball velocity of 91.6 mph per Baseball Savant), he makes up for it with nice management. His split-finger is his finest pitch, and he makes use of it to get out hitters repeatedly.
Nonetheless, Browne thinks Breslow’s connection to Imanaga can be a significant component of their resolution.
“Whereas nonetheless with the Cubs’ entrance workplace, Breslow did numerous scouting work on Imanaga and was amongst his largest backers,” Browne wrote. “By the point Imanaga opted to signal with the Cubs, Breslow was chief baseball officer for the Purple Sox. Maybe he can land Imanaga this time round. One factor that’s clear about Breslow: He by no means tires of high quality left-handed pitching.”
How Would Imanaga Match?
Crochet (when wholesome), Tolle, Bennett and Suárez lead the Purple Sox rotation as of now. Nonetheless, that fifth starter spot is presently up for grabs.
As of now, Brayan Bello holds that spot. However, Breslow has proven previously how aggressive he’s at buying gamers. So, it might not be shocking in any respect if he makes an exterior addition to the rotation, leaving Bello as a bulk reliever and spot starter.
The departure of Sonny Grey leaves an enormous void in Boston’s rotation. Whereas they’re well-equipped to deal with this, they might want another starter to finish an elite rotation.
Having Bello as your fifth starter isn’t the worst factor on the planet, particularly after his second half, when he posted a 2.12 ERA. Nonetheless, it might behoove the Purple Sox to improve.
Whereas they nonetheless want some thump within the lineup, Breslow might contemplate a fifth starter to be on his wishlist this offseason.
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