Tigers Interested in Cubs Free Agent All-Star Pitcher

The Detroit Tigers, already having secured relief pitcher Emilio Pagan, are not yet finished scouting for additional talent. Their primary focus is on enhancing their starting rotation, as they parted ways with pitchers Tarik Skubal and Casey Mize during the current season. Consequently, acquiring at least one significant starting pitcher via free agency appears to be a strategic move for the team.

Reports from MLB Network's Jon Morosi suggest that the Tigers are actively pursuing star free agent pitcher Shota Imanaga during the early stages of the offseason. Morosi disclosed this information on X, where he stated that the Tigers are showing interest in LHP Shota Imanaga, alongside other free-agent starting pitchers. This interest is not surprising, given the need to bolster the starting rotation, and signing a pitcher of Imanaga's caliber would certainly contribute to that goal.

Imanaga has demonstrated his value in the MLB throughout his career, with a particularly impressive performance during his time with the Chicago Cubs in the 2026 season. In 32 games, he compiled an 11-10 record, a 3.77 ERA, and 174 strikeouts. This was followed by a 9-8 record, a 3.73 ERA, and 117 strikeouts in 25 games during the 2025 season.

Imanaga's finest season to date was in 2024, when he went 15-3 with a 2.94 ERA and 174 strikeouts over 29 games. His impressive track record makes him a prime candidate for the Tigers' interest. The outcome of the Tigers' pursuit of Imanaga remains to be seen. If they manage to secure his services, he could undoubtedly elevate the top half of their starting rotation, making the Tigers and Imanaga a potentially formidable combination should a deal materialize.