Tag: Shota Imanaga

MLB fans loved seeing how the Cubs surprised Shōta Imanaga with his All-Star honor in the clubhouse

He even offered to split the prize money.

While the Cubs have been a disappointment in the first half of the season, rookie pitcher Shōta Imanaga has lived up to the billing. And now, he’s earned himself a trip to Arlington, Texas, in the process.

Shōta Imanaga — who spent eight seasons professionally in Japan before signing with the Cubs this offseason — was the Cubs’ lone All-Star selection. Though the honor was expected given the Cubs’ struggles across the board, Imanaga certainly seemed surprised when the news was announced in the clubhouse on Sunday.

In a video shared by the team’s Twitter/X account, Cubs manager Craig Counsell made the announcement to the whole team and gave Imanaga an opportunity to speak to the group. “Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls.” He’s a vibe, for sure.

The team interpreter Edwin Stanberry may have left something out as well. Shōta apparently offered to split the prize money (if there is any) with his teammates.

You don’t see many rookies make an All-Star team, but like Counsell said, Imanaga isn’t your typical rookie. He’s made the jump over from NPB to MLB look seamless, but it couldn’t have been easy.

MLB fans also loved seeing how Imanaga learned of the All-Star news.

This was how Twitter/X reacted

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Cubs star pitcher Shota Imanaga recognized New York from Spider-Man, which is so perfect

Shota Imanaga had his “Welcome to New York” moment with Spider-Man.

Cubs starting pitcher Shota Imanaga took the mound against the Mets on Wednesday, which marked his first time pitching in New York.

Imanaga secured the victory, 1-0, after throwing seven scoreless innings against the Mets. It was his fifth win in the majors, bringing his record to a perfect 5-0 on the season. He also holds the lowest ERA (0.78) in the MLB.

After the game, Imanaga was asked about his experience visiting New York. Via an interpreter, he said that he recognized his view from the hotel as the same one from Spider-Man.

Everyone needs to have their “Welcome to New York” moment eventually.

Imanaga, a two-time All-Star in Japan who helped lead his country to win a gold medal at the World Baseball Classic last year, just had his centered on a Marvel Comics superhero.

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