Struggling Cubs Pitcher Shota Imanaga Faces Difficulties Relaxing Amid His Absence in Japan
Life in a new city, even for a professional baseball player like Shota Imanaga, comes with its own set of challenges. The Chicago Cubs pitcher has found one such challenge in his new home - the absence of bathtubs.
In an interview, Imanaga admitted that he misses the bathtubs back in Japan. It turns out, most Japanese houses have bathtubs, and their absence in some places is a culture shock for the lefty pitcher.
Now, you might wonder why we're still using bathtubs in the 21st century when Japan, supposedly, is advanced enough to have toilets with more computing power than Apollo 11's space capsule. That's the Japanese for you. They've mastered the art of plumbing more efficiently than the rest of us.
Japanese bathtubs have historical and cultural significance, stemming from the tradition of public bathhouses, sentō, that played a crucial role in hygiene and socialization. As private baths became accessible, they found a place in practically every household. This culture places great emphasis on hydrotherapy and wellness, making bathtubs an essential part of their lifestyle.
In the US, factors like economic and housing trends have influenced bathtub trends. Older apartment buildings, common in urban areas like Chicago, may prioritize space efficiency by replacing bathtubs with showers. However, due to market trends, cold plunge tubs are on the rise, estimated to reach a market value of $132.1M by 2030. Yet, the majority of US homes have historically included bathtubs, though they are increasingly being replaced by showers in renovations due to convenience factors.
Imanaga's dedication to his bathing ritual is commendable. Faced with the lack of bathtubs, he doesn't settle for less. Instead, he's found an inflatable tub - suitable for children or babies. When hot water is poured into it, Shota's bathtub woes disappear.
It's high time a realtor in Chicago looked into upgrading Imanaga's living arrangements, adding a jacuzzi or garden tub to his new home. The pitcher has shown that a good soak after a long day is more than just a luxury; it's a necessity.
- Shota Imanaga, the Chicago Cubs pitcher, revealed his troubles adjusting to life in a new city, specifically the absence of bathtubs in his new home.
- Imanaga, who is accustomed to Japanese housing with bathtubs, finds this absence culturally shocking.
- In the US, due to housing trends, older apartment buildings may prioritize space efficiency by replacing bathtubs with showers, but cold plunge tubs are on the rise.
- Despite finding an inflatable tub to substitute for his missing bathtub, Sasaki's dedication to his bathing ritual indicates that a jacuzzi or garden tub would better cater to his needs and enhance his experience with sports, particularly baseball, in the MLB.
