Shota Imanaga, the Chicago Cubs’ newest star, has seemingly adapted swiftly to life in the U.S., but his most surprising discovery about America might catch you off guard.
During a recent interview with MLB Network, Imanaga was asked about the most unexpected aspect of his move from Japan to the United States.
After pausing to think, he delivered a surprising and humorous response through his interpreter. “The biggest surprise for me has been that even on a red light, I can take a right,” Imanaga revealed.
Having signed a four-year, $53 million contract with the Cubs in January, the 30-year-old pitcher, who had spent his entire life in Japan before this, has undoubtedly encountered many cultural differences. The fact that the ability to turn right on red struck him as noteworthy is quite amusing.
Imanaga is enjoying a stellar debut MLB season, boasting a 5-0 record with a 0.78 ERA and 35 strikeouts in 34 2/3 innings. His engaging personality and these light-hearted moments, both on the mound and with the media, have quickly made him a fan favorite.
