"I’d say Paul Skenes” – Cubs sensation Shota Imanaga is most excited to meet Pirates rookie at the All-Star Game
Shota Imanaga has been one of the biggest surprises of the season so far. Although he was a coveted international free agent this offseason, no one could have expected how well he would play during his rookie campaign in the MLB.
"Shōta Imanaga is the first Cubs rookie and first Japanese-born player since Kosuke Fukudome to be named an MLB All-Star. FOX 32's @ttinanguyen went one-on-one with him in Texas" - @fox32news
Even though he has struggled lately, Shota Imanaga burst onto the scene to start the season, earning himself an All-Star selection along the way. He very well might be the steal of the offseason given that the Chicago Cubs were able to sign him to an affordable four-year, $53,000,000 deal. His production so far this season has greatly trumped the deal.
While Imanaga has been one of the most impressive rookies this season, there is another one who has stood out above the rest. Pittsburgh Pirates sensation Paul Skenes has taken the MLB by storm thanks to his triple-digit velocity and elite outings on the mound. This has led to Skenes being named as the National League's starting pitcher during the event.
"@shotaimanaga shared why he’s most excited to talk with and watch fellow rookie Paul Skenes. Full interview on FT Live Episode 373 on YouTube. #mlb #baseball #allstar #chicagocubs #pittsburghpirates #mlballstargame" - @foulterritoryshow
It's not only fans who are looking forward to seeing Skenes at the All-Star Game but Imanaga as well.
"I’d say Paul Skenes," Shota Imanaga said through his interpreter when asked who he is looking forward to meeting. "Talk to him about physical stuff, how he plays catch, what he does in the bullpen," the Cubs star told Foul Territory.
All eyes will be on the Pittsburgh Pirates rookie when he takes the ball for the National League during the 2024 MLB All-Star Game, including his NL teammate, Shota Imanaga.
Shota Imanaga and Paul Skenes will be two of the top contenders for the NL Rookie of the Year Award
While the duo of Imanaga and Skenes may be friendly with one another at the All-Star Game, the two pitchers will continue to battle for the National League Rookie of the Year Award following the break.
Skenes may have the advantage over Imanaga right now, however, there is plenty of time remaining on the calendar for both players to separate themselves from one another. Jackson Merrill of the Milwaukee Brewers also finds himself in the running for the award. Merrill will also be representing the NL at the All-Star Game.