Marlins Linked to Shota Imanaga as Rotation Insurance

The Miami Marlins could target Shota Imanaga in free agency this offseason, according to a prediction published on November 4. The proposed move would add depth behind Sandy Alcantara or help replace him if Miami trades him this winter or loses him to free agency after next season.

Imanaga made the National League All-Star team in 2024, his first season with the Chicago Cubs. He finished that year 15-3 with a 2.91 ERA over 173⅓ innings, striking out 174 batters and walking 28 in 29 appearances. His performance has dipped since then, and he has allowed 66 home runs over the past two seasons, tied for the most in the majors over that span.

Miami’s loanDepot Park has been among the league’s least home-run-friendly stadiums, ranking fifth-lowest in home runs allowed over the past three seasons. The prediction argues that making many of his starts there could help Imanaga reduce the damage from home runs.

The suggested deal is two years and $34 million, or $17 million per season—a substantial commitment for the Marlins. Miami has contended for a wild-card spot in recent seasons but faded in September. Adding a starting pitcher is presented as one way to strengthen the club’s postseason push.