Manager Craig Counsell prioritizes extra rest for rookie Shota Imanaga

Shota Imanaga, a rookie for the Chicago Cubs, is getting extra rest as part of a plan by manager Craig Counsell. This is because they are thinking about the bigger picture. If Imanaga and Jameson Taillon both played on Saturday, they would need to have another bullpen day in the following week. Luckily, Friday's game got postponed and rescheduled for July 13, which saved the Cubs from this issue. Imanaga is expected to start Game 3 of the Brewers series on Wednesday night after having 10 days of rest, essentially skipping a start. This decision is made with the idea of managing his innings carefully. The team is planning ahead, considering that they will need him to perform well in August and September. Imanaga mentioned that his arm feels fine and he is not tired. Counsell sees this as a proactive move to prevent any issues in the future. They are aiming for around 170 innings from Imanaga and are strategically using the schedule to their advantage. In the background, there are other players like Jordan Wicks and Smyly who are being considered for different roles in the team. Wicks, rehabbing at Triple-A Iowa, might rejoin the rotation soon. Smyly will be used for multiple innings but not as a starter. Counsell is constantly thinking about what would be best for the team.