Shota Imanaga Takes Firm Steps Towards His Return with the Cubs
The star left-handed pitcher for the [Cubs](/mlb/team/_/name/chc/chicago-cubs), Shota Imanaga, is progressing in his recovery from a left hamstring injury that has kept him out of action since May 4. This was confirmed by manager Craig Counsell this Wednesday.
Before the last game of the Cubs’ series against Colorado, Imanaga completed a 28-pitch bullpen session, ran, and practiced fielding.
“Overall, it was a very good day of work,” Counsell commented. “If everything goes well tomorrow, we’ll repeat this on the weekend and then see what’s next.”
Craig Counsell, Cubs Manager
The next step for Imanaga could be to move to the Cubs’ training facilities in Mesa, Arizona. This could happen when the team begins a nine-game road trip next Tuesday, according to Counsell.
Imanaga, who was an All-Star last season, in his first year in the Major Leagues after arriving from Japan, had a 15-3 record with a 2.91 ERA in 29 starts. He signed a four-year, $53 million contract with Chicago in January 2024, and finished fourth in the National League Rookie of the Year voting.The 31-year-old player began this season with a 3-2 record and a 2.82 ERA in eight starts, before getting injured in Milwaukee while covering first base on a double play in the sixth inning of a 4-0 loss.
