Who Is Shota Imanaga? Age, Biography and Wiki
Shota Imanaga, born on September 1, 1993, is a notable Japanese professional baseball player who has made significant strides in his career over the years. Known for his impressive pitching skills, he plays for the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). Imanaga has garnered attention not only for his athletic prowess but also for his dedication and work ethic both on and off the field. As of 2025, Imanaga is 31 years old and continues to be a key player in Japanese baseball.
| Occupation | Baseball Players |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | September 1, 1993 |
| Age | 32 Years |
| Birth Place | Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan |
| Horoscope | Virgo |
| Country | Japan |
Popularity
Shota Imanaga's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Shota Imanaga stands tall at approximately 6 feet 1 inch (185 cm) and weighs around 194 pounds (88 kg). His physique is complemented by a robust athletic build, which aids his performance as a pitcher. With a well-maintained fitness routine, Imanaga ensures he stays in peak condition, optimizing his abilities and longevity in the sport.
Imanaga is a 5 ft, 175 lb left-handed pitcher throwing from a three-quarters arm angle. He has a fastball averaging nearly 92 mph (tops out at 96 mph ), changeup, curveball and slider in his repertoire. He is not an overpowering hurler but finds success with his command and changeup.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Shota Imanaga has maintained a level of privacy regarding his personal life; however, there are rumors about his relationship status. While he often keeps his dating life under wraps, sources suggest that he is currently dating a fellow athlete, which is yet to be officially confirmed. His family has been supportive of his endeavors, and they play an important role in his life.
Net Worth and Salary
Shota Imanaga’s net worth in 2025 is estimated to be around $5 million, a testament to his successful career in baseball. His annual salary as a prominent NPB player is rumored to be in the range of $2-3 million, which includes endorsements and sponsorship deals. These earnings reflect his skills on the field and the popularity he has garnered over the years.
On January 11, 2024, Imanaga signed a four-year, $53 million contract with the Chicago Cubs that also contained a fifth-year option. The Cubs also had to pay $9.825 million to the Bay Stars in the form of a release fee.
Career, Business and Investments
Imanaga’s career took off after he was drafted into the professional ranks in 2014. Throughout his journey, he has not only excelled in pitching but has also been involved in various philanthropic activities, leveraging his platform to give back to the community. In addition to his baseball career, Imanaga has shown interest in business ventures, particularly in sports-related investments and merchandise, making strategic moves that enhance his portfolio.
When asked by a reporter about receiving the nickname "The Throwing Philosopher," Imanaga replied (through an interpreter) "I know that I have a unique personality.
If I'm trying to say a normal thing, it comes out a little sophisticated." Prior to starting his MLB career, he said at a press conference (through an interpreter), "I am by no means a finished product and there is a lot of me to learn, and there is a lot for me to study day-in and day-out.
And I believe that, somehow, my approach in that way earned me the nickname."
Social Network
Shota Imanaga is quite popular on social media, where he engages with fans and shares insights into his life as a professional athlete. His Instagram account (@shota_imanaga) features glimpses of his training regimen, matches, and personal moments, drawing a significant following. His presence on social media platforms helps him maintain strong connections with fans and promotes his brand as an athlete.
When asked how he felt pitching in New York for the first time, Imanaga replied (through an interpreter) "The view from the hotel, I recognize it from Spider-Man. So I was just like, oh, this is where Spider-Man was."
Education
Before pursuing a career in professional baseball, Shota Imanaga attended Waseda University, one of Japan's prestigious institutions, where he played collegiate baseball. His educational background has provided him with valuable insights into sports management and personal development, contributing to his growth both as an athlete and individual.
In conclusion, Shota Imanaga continues to be a prominent figure in Japanese baseball in 2025. With an impressive career, notable earnings, and an intriguing personal life, he remains a player to watch. As fans eagerly follow his journey, it is clear that Imanaga will leave a lasting legacy in the world of sports.
