Shota Imanaga's Return: Cubs Lefty Expected In St. Louis Next Week

David

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Post on Jun 23, 2025

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Shota Imanaga's Return: Cubs Lefty Expected in St. Louis Next Week

Chicago Cubs fans rejoice! After a brief stint on the injured list, the highly anticipated return of left-handed pitcher Shota Imanaga is imminent. The Cubs announced that the Japanese import is expected to rejoin the team in St. Louis next week, bolstering their pitching rotation just in time for a crucial series against the Cardinals. This news is a significant boost for a Cubs team looking to solidify their playoff hopes.

The news of Imanaga's impending return comes as a welcome relief for manager David Ross, who has been navigating a challenging pitching landscape in recent weeks. The team has battled injuries and inconsistent performances, making the reliable presence of Imanaga all the more important. His return is expected to add stability and depth to the rotation, significantly impacting the Cubs' chances in the competitive NL Central.

Imanaga's Impact on the Cubs' Rotation

Imanaga's performance since joining the Cubs has been nothing short of impressive. His unique pitching style, characterized by pinpoint control and a deceptive arsenal of pitches, has quickly made him a fan favorite. Before his injury, he consistently delivered quality starts, showcasing his ability to neutralize both right-handed and left-handed batters.

His return is expected to immediately improve several key metrics for the Cubs:

• Reduced ERA: Imanaga's consistent performance historically lowers the team's overall earned run average.
• Improved Win Probability: His ability to pitch deep into games increases the Cubs' chances of winning.
• Increased Strikeouts: Imanaga's strikeout numbers are above average, bolstering the team's overall strikeout rate.
• Enhanced bullpen management: His ability to pitch effectively for multiple innings reduces the workload on the bullpen.

The addition of a reliable starting pitcher like Imanaga is crucial, especially in a pivotal series against a division rival like the Cardinals. This matchup promises high stakes, making Imanaga's presence even more significant.

The Road to Recovery and Next Steps

While the Cubs haven't released specific details about Imanaga's injury recovery, sources suggest he has fully participated in recent minor league rehabilitation assignments, demonstrating his readiness to rejoin the major league roster. His performance in these games will have been key in determining his readiness for the St. Louis series. Further updates are expected from the Cubs in the coming days, confirming his official activation and potential role in the upcoming games.

What This Means for Cubs Fans

For Cubs fans eagerly awaiting Imanaga's return, this news offers a much-needed dose of optimism. His presence adds a layer of excitement to an already captivating season. This is a pivotal moment for the team, and Imanaga's return adds a crucial element to their quest for postseason contention.

Stay tuned for further updates as we approach the St. Louis series! Follow us for the latest news and analysis on the Chicago Cubs. Are you excited about Imanaga's return? Let us know in the comments below!