Shota Imanaga, the Chicago Cubs’ $54 million ace, isn’t just impressing with his pitching skills. Nicknamed “The Throwing Philosopher,” this left-handed pitcher from Japan has been making waves both on and off the field. While adapting to MLB’s competitive environment, he’s also navigating the cultural nuances of life in the U.S., offering fans a deeper look into his unique journey.

On April 15th, Imanaga showcased his prowess against the San Diego Padres, pitching five innings and striking out seven batters. Despite a solo home run by Manny Machado, which followed some defensive lapses, Imanaga kept the game tight. The Cubs clinched a 2-1 victory in 10 innings, handing the Padres their first home loss of the season. It was another reliable performance from the Japanese.

Following the hard-fought win, Imanaga reflected on his cultural experiences, noting, “everybody has their own opinion and they will let that out. And I think even outside of baseball, I’ve noticed that, so that’s been interesting “ This observation highlights the contrasts he’s observed between Japanese and American cultures.

It wasn’t the first time that Imanaga had publicly spoken about his adjustment to American ways. After an emphatic shout after a strikeout in his MLB debut, he said, “I think I’m becoming a little bit more acclimated to the culture of the U.S.” He charmed fans early by learning lyrics to “Go Cubs Go” for his introductory press conference. His teammates rave about his quick English progress and outgoing personality. He even purchased an American football after seeing some teammates tossing one, showing his eagerness to engage with his new surroundings.

How Shota Imanaga and Other Japanese Stars Adjust to MLB Life

Shota Imanaga isn’t alone in observing cultural contrasts between Japanese baseball (NPB) and Major League Baseball (MLB). Ichiro Suzuki once remarked, “The Japanese have a strong tendency to suppress their own feelings. That’s the Japanese character. They kill their own emotions.” Shohei Ohtani, reflecting on his transition to MLB, noted the differences in baseball and culture, emphasizing the unique environment and expectations in the U.S. Yoshitomo Tsutsugo criticized Japan’s youth baseball system, stating, “Baseball needs to stop being adult-oriented and become focused on the education and future of the children.”

Others have put more emphasis on adjusting playing styles and accepting MLB’s bluntness. When Masahiro Tanaka joined the Yankees, he said he hoped to learn the American way instead of relying on strictly Japanese methods. Power pitcher Kazuhiro Sasaki liked the “power against power” philosophy of Major League Baseball and believed that was how the game should be played. And, all of them reveal a common thread: Japanese players are aware of and actively deal with unique cultural and tactical differences upon arrival in the Majors.

This journey of adaptation unfolds as Imanaga contributes to a surprisingly strong start for the Cubs this season. As of April 16, 2025, the Chicago Cubs boast a 12-8 record, leading the NL Central with a +38 run differential, the highest in MLB. Their success is attributed to disciplined hitting and aggressive base running, evidenced by their league-leading 29 stolen bases. Despite the absence of ace Justin Steele, the pitching staff has performed admirably. Shota Imanaga has contributed significantly, holding a 2-1 record with a 2.22 ERA over his first five starts.

Shota Imanaga isn’t just learning how to pitch in the big leagues—he’s learning how to belong. Behind every strikeout, every quiet moment in the dugout, and every new word in English, there’s a deeper story unfolding. It’s a story of identity, of adaptation, and of the quiet courage it takes to show up in a new world and still be yourself.