Cubs Turn to Shota Imanaga in Crucial Game 2 of NLDS Against Brewers
The Chicago Cubs find themselves in a pivotal moment as they prepare for Game 2 of the National League Division Series against the Milwaukee Brewers. With their backs against the wall following a disappointing 9-3 loss in Game 1, the Cubs are counting on left-hander Shota Imanaga to help level the series.
Imanaga Takes the Mound
In a decisive move, Cubs manager Craig Counsell announced Imanaga as the starter for Monday evening’s crucial matchup. The decision comes on the heels of a lackluster performance from Game 1 starter Matthew Boyd, who recorded one of the shortest outings in Cubs postseason history. Boyd managed only two outs, giving up four hits and six runs—two earned—before he was pulled after throwing 30 pitches, of which 21 were strikes.
Chicago’s hopes hinge on Imanaga not only providing length on the mound but also securing a much-needed victory before the series shifts back to Chicago for Game 3.
Looking Back at Imanaga’s Performance
Shota Imanaga made his postseason debut in the NL Wild Card series against the San Diego Padres, where he started Game 2. Unlike Boyd, Imanaga will take the mound on regular rest, having thrown just four innings in his last outing. In that game, he allowed three hits and two runs, including a home run, while walking two and striking out three. The Padres ultimately won that matchup, leading to a dramatic Game 3, which the Cubs prevailed in.
During the regular season, Imanaga posted a record of 9-8 with a 3.73 ERA over 25 starts. His performance was hampered by a hamstring injury that sidelined him for over a month. Across 144.2 innings, he managed to strike out 117 batters while issuing 26 walks, holding opponents to a .218 batting average and finishing with a 0.99 WHIP.
Imanaga’s Journey from Japan to MLB
Imanaga’s journey to the MLB was noteworthy, as he was one of the top rookies in the National League following an impressive career in Japan. In his last season overseas, he achieved a remarkable 15-3 record with a 2.91 ERA in 29 starts, striking out 174 batters over 173.1 innings and allowing a .225 batting average against him.
A Brief Respite for the Bullpen
The Cubs will benefit from the scheduling of the series, as Game 2 comes after a day off. This break is particularly important for Chicago’s bullpen, which was heavily utilized after Boyd’s early exit in Game 1. The added rest could prove invaluable as they prepare for the challenges ahead in this best-of-five series.
Upcoming Game Schedule
Game 1: Brewers 9, Cubs 3, Saturday (Brewers lead series 1-0)
Game 2: Chicago Cubs at Milwaukee Brewers, Monday, 8:08 p.m. CT, TBS/HBO Max
Game 3: Milwaukee Brewers at Chicago Cubs, Wednesday, 4:08 p.m. CT, TBS/HBO Max
Game 4: Milwaukee Brewers at Chicago Cubs, Thursday, 8:08 p.m. CT, TBS/HBO Max (if necessary)
Game 5: Chicago Cubs at Milwaukee Brewers, Saturday, Oct. 11, 3:38 p.m. CT, TBS/HBO Max (if necessary)
As the Cubs gear up for this critical game, all eyes will be on Imanaga to deliver a performance that can turn the tide in the series.
