Cubs Confirm Shota Imanaga Returns from Injury in St. Louis Next Week

Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell confirmed that left-hander Shota Imanaga will return to the major league rotation early next week during the upcoming road trip in St. Louis after a successful rehab start with Triple-A Iowa, where he pitched 4 1/3 scoreless innings with eight strikeouts. Imanaga, who has been sidelined since May 4 due to a left hamstring strain, was having a strong season with a 3-2 record and a 2.82 ERA before his injury, and his return is expected to bolster the Cubs' rotation, which has been weakened by the season-ending loss of Justin Steele and recent shoulder injury to Matthew Boyd. Counsell indicated that the team is considering all options, including a possible six-man rotation, to accommodate Imanaga's return and Boyd's uncertain availability. Imanaga, the 2024 NL Rookie of the Year, signed a four-year, $53 million contract with Chicago in January and is viewed as a critical component for the Cubs as they aim to maintain their lead in the NL Central and reach the postseason for the first time since 2020. Additionally, the Cubs recalled right-hander Nate Pearson from Triple-A and designated lefty Génesis Cabrera for assignment to adjust the roster. The Cubs currently lead their division by 4.5 games and hope Imanaga's return will provide the pitching depth needed to sustain their playoff push.