The Chicago Cubs declined to pick up a three-year option on Imanaga's contract, which triggered Imanaga's player option (which he also declined), officially making him a free agent. He went 9-8 with a 3.73 ERA across 25 starts in Chicago this past season. While the Blue Jays did use Eric Lauer and Easton Lucas as left-handed starters in 2025, the team spent most of the year without a consistent left-handed presence in the rotation.
Glasnow's last start was Game 3 of the National League Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers. He pitched 5 and 2/3 innings, giving up only one run on three hits, and striking out eight hitters. The California product has rested since his start on October 16th and is coming out fresh to get his start at Dodger Stadium. The Blue Jays have gotten their fair look at Glasnow over the years, as he was a part of the American League East under the Tampa Bay Rays banner before being dealt to the West Coast.
On Tuesday night, Sandy Alcantara reminded everyone why he's still the face of Miami's pitching staff. The right-hander tossed six dominant innings against the Pirates, allowing just three hits, one walk, and striking out six in a 3-2 win to even the series. He needed only 85 pitches to do it-his most efficient outing of the year by far. That's more like the Sandy Alcántara we know and love!