Chicago Cubs fans have quickly fallen in love with Japanese-born rookie Shota Imanaga. The 30-year-old has had an incredible start to his MLB career and was rewarded with an All-Star nod earlier this season.
Imanaga has consistently given fans a reason to love the lefty on the field, but recently, he has also given fans a reason to love him off the field. As the players enter Wrigley Field, several cameramen can be seen. Amongst the crowd, a Cubs superfan can usually be found snapping photos of her own. Sam Bernero is well known by the players; they often stop to take a picture with her.
Before Friday’s game against the Cardinals, Imanaga made a nice gesture to show his appreciation to Bernero for her constant support. Imanaga is a known coffee enthusiast who is regularly seen entering the Friendly Confines with Dunkin’ Donuts. On Friday, he arrived with two: one for himself and one for Cubs fan Bernero.
OMG! OMG!! Shota Imanaga just gave me a Dunkin iced latte!!
He arrived with two cups and said this one for you and handed me one.
I'm in shock!!
Made my day! What a great memory I have. pic.twitter.com/h5yeS0qewP— Sam Bernero (@sambernero) August 2, 2024
It was a small gesture from Imanaga that likely made this fan’s day. The Japanese star has made his adjustment to America and the MLB look easy, and as he continues to impress on the field, his personality has shined through all the same.
Imanaga has appeared in 20 games for the Cubs, posting an impressive 3.09 ERA with an 8-2 record. He started Thursday against the Cardinals, where Imanaga allowed four runs and struck out seven in six and two-thirds.
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Photo Credit: Shota Imanaga #18 of the Chicago Cubs walks on the field before the game against the Cincinnati Redsat Great American Ball Park on July 29, 2024 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Mowry/Getty Images)
