Shota Imanaga shines as Cubs rookie with 15-3 record
- Shota Imanaga concluded his rookie season with a record of 15 wins and 3 losses, achieving a 2.91 ERA in 29 starts.
- He excelled in his last six starts, going 6-0 with a 2.25 ERA, striking out 174 batters in total.
- Despite his strong performance, he will not pitch in the upcoming game against Cincinnati, reflecting the team's strategic management of player workloads.
Shota Imanaga, a 31-year-old left-handed pitcher from Japan, concluded his rookie season with the Chicago Cubs, achieving an impressive record of 15 wins and 3 losses, alongside a 2.91 ERA over 29 starts. His performance included striking out 174 batters while walking 28 in 173 1/3 innings pitched. Notably, Imanaga excelled in his final six starts, going undefeated with a 2.25 ERA. Despite his success, he will not pitch in the upcoming game against Cincinnati due to a calculated decision by manager Craig Counsell, who cited a lack of risk-reward benefit for the game. This decision reflects the Cubs' strategy to manage player workloads effectively as the season concludes. Imanaga's achievements mark a personal milestone, surpassing his previous best of 13 wins during his time with Yokohama in 2019, showcasing his growth and adaptation to Major League Baseball.