WATCH: Shota Imanaga ready to see Cubs play in Japan |
Chicago Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga spoke for the first time at spring training to discuss pitching in Japan, expectations for the 2025 season and more.
Watch the interview below:
Video summary/cliff-notes
(00:00 - 01:08): Shota Imanaga discusses his goals for spring training, emphasizing the importance of continuing his off-season work. He uses the pitching lab to ensure his throws are effective at the MLB level.
(01:08 - 02:13): He talks about constantly improving his pitching and adapting his skills for high-level MLB competition.
(02:13 - 03:16): Imanaga expresses excitement about pitching in Japan, acknowledging the responsibility that comes with it. He wants to perform well in front of both Japanese and Cubs fans.
(03:16 - 04:21): He highlights the significance of playing in Japan, mentioning that Japanese fans usually have to wake up early to watch MLB games, but this time, they can see him at a normal time.
(04:21 - 05:27): Imanaga confirms that his physical condition is game-ready and mentions that Cubs manager Craig Counsell advised him not to overexert himself but rather maintain consistency in his routine.
(05:27 - End): He anticipates teammates asking for recommendations on Japanese food and places to visit, planning to be a helpful guide. He jokes that his teammates will now understand what it's like to be in a foreign country, just as he experienced when moving to the U.S.
