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Cubs star Shota Imanaga has a new nickname and the reason behind it is hilarious

5 months agoAndy Martinez

If you glanced at the nameplates inside the Cubs clubhouse, you might spot an unfamiliar name.

Situated between Kyle Hendricks and Ben Brown’s lockers was number 18 — “Mike Imanaga II”. “Mike Imanaga” was ingrained like the other nameplates in the room, but the “II” was clearly written on if close enough attention is paid.

Shota Imanaga’s locker no longer had his actual name.

But why Mike? Well, it’s the name he uses when he picks up his daily coffee because it’s easier for baristas than Shota.

Imanaga’s love of Dunkin’ Donuts was well documented earlier in the year — he even admitted to not being recognized at his local Dunkin’. It becomes a little more challenging to be recognized when you use a pseudonym, though.

And why “II”?

“It just sounds cool,” Imanaga said through interpreter Edwin Stanberry.

A wholesome moment, from a player who has quickly endeared himself to Cubs fans. Later Friday morning, Imanaga had a white box from Dunkin’ that he had received and proudly displayed it in his locker like a trophy.

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