Watch Shota Imanaga Play 'Go Cubs Go' On the Guitar

Since his opening press conference after signing with the team last January, Imanaga has routinely offered Cubs fans a glimpse at his comedic personality. During that press conference, Imanaga also gave a rendition of "Go Cubs Go" while sitting next to team President Jed Hoyer, who immediately cracked a huge smile.

Another endearing moment was when reporters walked into the Cubs clubhouse last summer to find Imanaga's locker flashing a new nameplate reading "Mike Imanaga II", an ode to the alias the pitcher uses to order coffee at Dunkin Donuts. When asked about the "II" at the end of the name, Imanga simply said, "It just sounds cool." 

During any given Imanaga start, you'll likely see the 2024 All-Star openly react to everything from flinching at deep fly balls, shaking his head at close pitches, or bowing to the umpire after he throws him a new ball. The guy radiates with personality and he backs up his antics with amazing stuff on the mound. 

The Cubs need another great year from Imanaga

Aside from his musical talents, Imanaga blew away everyone's expectations last year, leading the pitching staff in ERA (2.91), strikeouts (174), innings pitched (173.1), and WHIP (1.02). It was an incredible year for his first season pitching in the United States and he adjusted to the heavier workload with ease. In Japan, starters typically throw every six days, giving them an extra day of rest compared to their American counterparts. 

With his first full offseason in the books and his second Spring Training in full swing, Imanaga is looking to build on his 2024 success to help lead the Cubs back into playoff contention in 2025. He will be on the mound in the Cubs' opening contest against the Los Angeles Dodgers on March 18th, with the opportunity to pitch against arguably the best lineup in baseball in his home country.