Brett and Michael discuss the Cubs’ 40-man roster deadline, Rule 5 Draft implications, and Shota Imanaga’s return on a one-year, $22 million deal after accepting the Qualifying Offer. They also touch on what could come next—particularly at third base—as the Cubs begin shaping their offseason plans.
Brett and Michael are back for the thirty-ninth episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! It’s a busy week for roster logistics, with the 40-man roster deadline and the Qualifying Offer acceptance deadline both hitting. The guys walk through how the Rule 5 Draft works and what those roster decisions mean for the Cubs heading into the winter.
They also react to Shota Imanaga accepting the Cubs’ $22 million Qualifying Offer, keeping him in Chicago for 2026. It’s a strong short-term outcome for both sides and a reflection of how much the Cubs valued bringing him back on a one-year deal.
Finally, Brett and Michael look ahead at potential offseason priorities—including whether the Cubs could make a move to solidify third base before spring training.
A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!
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