Tatsuya Imai signed with the Astros for three years and $54MM, surprising many as he was expected to receive a larger contract. The Cubs were seen as a strong competitor but hesitated on a long-term commitment for a top starter. Meanwhile, the Cubs are still in need of a rotation upgrade and may pursue other starters or focus on their offense, potentially targeting Kazuma Okamoto from NPB, despite internal options at third base. Okamoto has drawn interest from several teams, including the Padres and Pirates, which may offer him more playing time than the Cubs.
