Chicago Cubs ace left-hander Shota Imanaga is making progress in his recovery from a left hamstring strain that has kept him out since May 4, manager Craig Counsell said Wednesday.
Prior to the Cubs’ series finale against Colorado, Imanaga completed a 28-pitch bullpen session, ran drills, and participated in fielding practice.
“Overall, it was a really productive day,” Counsell said. “If everything checks out tomorrow, we’ll look to repeat that this weekend and continue from there.”
The next step for Imanaga would be heading to the Cubs’ training complex in Mesa, Arizona, potentially aligning with the team’s upcoming nine-game road trip starting Tuesday, according to Counsell.
Imanaga made an impressive MLB debut last season after coming over from Japan, earning an All-Star selection while posting a 15-3 record and a 2.91 ERA across 29 starts. He signed a four-year, \$53 million deal with Chicago in January 2024 and went on to finish fourth in National League Rookie of the Year voting.
The 31-year-old had a strong start to this season, going 3-2 with a 2.82 ERA in eight starts before injuring his hamstring while covering first base during a potential double play in the sixth inning of a 4-0 loss in Milwaukee.