Shota Imanaga had hilarious quote about playing in New York
May 1, 2024; New York City, New York, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Shota Imanaga (18) pitches against the New York Mets during the second inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Chicago Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga played his first MLB game in New York on Wednesday, but the Japanese star said his surroundings looked quite familiar.
Imanaga had another outstanding outing in Chicago’s 1-0 win over the New York Mets at Citi Field in Queens, N.Y. The left-hander allowed just 3 hits and struck out 7 in seven scoreless innings.
After the game, Imanaga was asked what his first experience pitching in New York was like. He said he recognized the view from his hotel because he has watched plenty of Spider-Man.
“The view from the hotel, I recognize it from Spider-Man,” Imanaga said through his interpreter. “So I was just like, oh, this is where Spider-Man was.”
Shota Imanaga was asked what was it like pitching in New York for the first time. His response (via interpreter)
“The view from the hotel, I recognize it from Spider-Man. So I was just like, oh, this is where Spider-Man was.”
— David Lennon (@DPLennon) May 2, 2024
Spider-Man, of course, is set in New York City.
Imanaga has quickly become a fan favorite in Chicago, and quotes like that are only going to add to his popularity. The 30-year-old is 5-0 this season with a 0.78 ERA and 35 strikeouts in 34 2/3 innings. He has even had some humorous moments on the mound.