Yoshinobu Yamamoto was the largest 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 rationale 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 document and 1.89 ERA for the Chicago Cubs to date this season, and one insider lately revealed why so many groups missed on him in free company.
The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal lately stated that “there have been some issues that gave groups pause and there’s a cause why he bought 1/sixth of what Yamamoto bought” and talked about his measurement, his age, and his lack of high-end velocity gave groups causes to be uncertain about him.
Imanaga is just 5’10” and 170 kilos and is already 30 years outdated, and his 4-year, $53 million deal is already trying like fairly the cut price for the Cubs as Imanaga has outperformed not solely Yamamoto, however practically each different beginning pitcher within the league.
His infectious character has additionally outdated the language barrier, and Imanaga is rapidly changing into a fan favourite in Chicago.
Not solely is Imanaga separating from the sphere within the NL Rookie of the Yr race, however he’s additionally effectively on his technique to changing into an All-Star and has a professional case for the Cy Younger award in the mean time.
You’ll be able to’t assist however root for the man.