WATCH: Shota Imanaga honored to be named Cubs Opening Day starter in Japan |
Tony Crumpton
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- Wednesday, February 19 2025
Chicago Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga spoke to the media through interpreter Edwin Stanberry discussing how he found out about starting in the season opener in Tokyo, the legacy of Japanese players playing in the majors and much more.
“I’m very honored,” Imanaga said via interpreter Edwin Stanberry. “I have to say, though, that the reason that the Japanese players are getting a lot of attention is because of all the players in the past that came before us who created this path for all the Japanese players, and we’re walking on their history. “So, I want to say thank you to all of them, and I’m very excited.” Watch the interview below:
Video summary/cliff-notes:
Shota Imanaga Named Cubs’ Opening Day Starter (00:05)
Imanaga was honored but also nervous upon hearing the news.
Facing fellow Japanese pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto in Tokyo adds to the excitement.
Acknowledging Japanese Baseball Pioneers (01:12)
Imanaga expressed gratitude to past Japanese MLB players.
He believes their success paved the way for the current generation.
Impact on Japanese Baseball (03:21)
Hopes the Tokyo game will inspire young Japanese players.
Notes that Japan’s baseball participation has been declining.
Handling Pressure (04:27)
Feels pressure in every game but approaches each with the same mindset.
Sees no major difference between Opening Day and other starts.
Relationship with Yamamoto (05:34)
Recently communicated with Yamamoto through a mutual acquaintance.
Shared a humorous story about buying socks when he received a message.
Japanese Players' Rise in MLB (06:43)
Credits past players' media presence and international exposure.
Social media has helped Japanese players see MLB as an achievable goal.
Influences and Inspiration (08:49)
Grew up admiring Ichiro Suzuki and other Japanese MLB players.
Their media presence and performances inspired his own journey.
Pitching in Tokyo Dome (09:55)
Comfortable pitching there as the mound is similar to MLB’s.
Has given up some home runs in the stadium before.
Differences in Fan Culture (10:59)
Japanese fans have unique chants and coordinated support.
American fans engage differently, with a more individual approach.
Collector Culture in Japan vs. U.S. (13:14)
Both countries have passionate collectors.
Business models and fan engagement strategies differ.
