Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell just shared a much-needed update on pitcher Shota Imanaga’s injury, and thankfully, it’s not as bad as some feared.
Imanaga is dealing with a “very mild hamstring strain,” Counsell told reporters, and while he’s expected to miss some time, the injury isn’t considered serious.
“We’re optimistic. I think it’s probable we’re going to be past two weeks here because we’re going to be cautious and make sure that he’s back to 100,” Counsell said.
Craig Counsell says Shota Imanaga has a very mild hamstring strain.
"All in all, pretty good news." pic.twitter.com/U6vV3maMQU
— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) May 6, 2025
Imanaga sustained the injury on May 4, 2025, during a game against the Milwaukee Brewers. While attempting to cover first base, he experienced discomfort in his left hamstring and exited the game in the sixth inning. He was then placed on the 15-day injured list.
Notably, this isn’t the first time Imanaga has been forced to leave the field due to injury. He previously exited his last outing against the Pirates with cramping in both quads, which the team initially dismissed as minor.
Before his injury, Imanaga had been a standout in the Cubs’ rotation. Over eight starts, he compiled a 3–2 record with a 2.82 ERA, striking out 34 batters and issuing 14 walks across 44⅔ innings.
Cubs Injury Woes
Despite the injuries, Chicago is off to a 22–14 start and leads the NL Central. But in Justin Steele and Javier Assad’s absence, the Cubs’ rotation is being held together with duct tape and hope. While Steele is out for the season after elbow surgery, Assad is sidelined by an oblique strain setback.
Currently, Jameson Taillon, Ben Brown, Matthew Boyd, and Colin Rea are carrying the load. Originally in the bullpen, Rea has stepped up since Steele went down and has held his own so far.
Chris Flexen could be stretched out from the pen if needed, while Jordan Wicks remains a Triple-A option. However, Wicks’ up-and-down performances haven’t exactly forced the issue.
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