New starter Shota Imanaga immediately endeared himself to Cubs fans after taking the stage for his introductory news conference Friday.

"Hey Chicago," Imanaga said in English. "What do you say? The Cubs are going to win today."

It was an early clue into his personality as Imanaga, 30, begins his MLB career after signing a four-year, $53 million contract with the Cubs this week. If he pitches well, the Cubs have the option, after his second and third season, to extend that contract out to five years and $80 million.