Brett and Michael are back for the thirty-eighth episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! Not much movement yet in the Cubs’ offseason, but the big storyline remains Shota Imanaga’s qualifying offer decision, which must come by November 18.

Reports suggest Imanaga is expected to decline the $22 million offer, with his camp exploring what his market might look like if he does. If he accepts, he’ll return to the Cubs for 2026. If he declines, he could still re-sign in Chicago—but if he signs elsewhere, the Cubs would receive a compensatory draft pick after the second round.

Meanwhile, all signs point to the Cubs being active in the starting pitching market, with names like Tatsuya Imai, Dylan Cease, and others emerging as possible targets. The guys dig into Cease’s current career arc and discuss what kind of deal or trade value he might carry.

Finally, they ask the offseason question on everyone’s mind: could the Cubs bring back Cody Bellinger?

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