Imanaga Could Give Detroit a High-Risk Rotation Option

Shota Imanaga’s vulnerability to home runs has followed him from Japan to the major leagues. Since making his MLB debut with the Chicago Cubs in 2024, he has allowed 93 homers, more than any other pitcher during that period. Right-handed hitters have accounted for 78% of them, and 72% came off his fastball.

The 2026 season offered some reason for optimism. Imanaga reduced his fastball usage from 48.7% in 2025 to 40.1%, and his fastball run value improved from minus 10 to plus 6. His changeup was a major strength: it produced a plus-14 run value and a .198 expected batting average against. His strikeout rate also rose from 12.2% to 21.5%.

There are still concerns. Imanaga has not generally been a high-strikeout pitcher, and his breaking-pitch results fell sharply from the previous season. Across his MLB career, 69% of the 189 runs he has allowed have scored on home runs. His career 3.92 expected fielding independent pitching suggests a more favorable underlying profile than that damage might imply.

Detroit is looking to add pitching, with president of baseball operations Scott Harris emphasizing experience, power against both types of hitters and reliability in the bullpen. The Tigers have already added reliever Emilio Pagan and are expected to pursue a closer. Imanaga could also be considered as a left-handed rotation option alongside Framber Valdez, though Detroit has not announced plans to pursue him.

A short-term deal could make Imanaga an attractive gamble if he limits home runs and builds on his changeup-led improvement. The proposal depends on whether he can strengthen his secondary pitches and reduce the damage on contact.