Detroit Tigers Reportedly Eyeing Free Agent Pitcher Shota Imanaga

The Detroit Tigers are actively exploring pitching reinforcements and have identified left-hander Shota Imanaga as a target on the free-agent market, according to Jon Morosi of MLB Network. The Tigers previously bolstered their bullpen by signing former Cincinnati Reds closer Emilio Pagan, but president of baseball operations Scott Harris has indicated that the club remains open to adding multiple starters through trades or free agency.

Imanaga enters the market without a qualifying offer attached this winter after previously accepting one to stay with the Chicago Cubs. During the 2026 campaign, the 33-year-old made 32 starts, logging a 3.77 ERA and a career-high 174 1/3 innings while maintaining durability in an otherwise injury-plagued Cubs rotation. However, home runs remained a significant challenge, as he surrendered 35 long balls—the second-highest total in the majors behind Philadelphia's Aaron Nola.

Moving to Comerica Park could benefit the veteran left-hander. Statcast park factors rank Detroit's home venue 14th for home runs over the last three seasons, whereas Wrigley Field sits higher at No. 8. With a projected payroll currently lowered to roughly $149.1 million from last season's $202.1 million, the Tigers possess financial flexibility to pursue rotation help to complement an otherwise youthful staff featuring Jackson Jobe, Troy Melton, and veteran Framber Valdez.

What to watch next: Monitor whether Detroit converts their reported interest in Imanaga into a formal contract offer as the free-agent market develops.