Cubs Use Opener Kittredge, Imanaga Relieves in NL Wild-Card Game 2 Loss

The Chicago Cubs, following their Game 1 victory over the San Diego Padres, have opted to use an opener strategy for Game 2 of the National League Wild Card series, with right-hander Andrew Kittredge starting the game and left-hander Shota Imanaga entering in the second inning. Imanaga, who has struggled significantly throughout the season, particularly in the first inning where he posted a 7.20 ERA and conceded numerous home runs, did not factor into the Cubs' 3-0 loss in Game 2 after allowing two earned runs in three innings. Kittredge, who showed strong relief performance in Game 1, is expected to help mitigate the early lineup challenges the Cubs face with Imanaga. Despite his difficulties, Imanaga remains a candidate to pitch in Game 3 if the Cubs win the decisive Game 2. The Cubs' use of an opener reflects a strategic adjustment to Imanaga's recent struggles, aiming to capitalize on bullpen depth while managing the matchup against a strong Padres lineup. Meanwhile, Padres starter Dylan Cease took the mound for Game 2, continuing the competitive dynamic of this short series.