Shota Imanaga Drops Major Update on Injury Severity After Dramatic Cubs vs. Brewers Game – What It Means for His Season

On May 4, 2025, Chicago Cubs fans held their breath as star pitcher Shota Imanaga limped off the field during a tense sixth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers. The Cubs’ 4-0 loss was overshadowed by concerns about Imanaga’s health after he strained his left hamstring while covering first base. Now, the left-hander has provided a critical update on the severity of his injury, shedding light on what it could mean for his 2025 season.

The Injury: What Happened in the Cubs vs. Brewers Game?

During the sixth inning, with the game still scoreless, Brewers’ Christian Yelich hit a grounder to Cubs first baseman Michael Busch. Imanaga sprinted to cover first base for a potential double play but pulled up in pain, grabbing the back of his left leg. He was immediately removed from the game, and the Cubs later confirmed a left hamstring strain. This marked Imanaga’s second consecutive start with a leg issue, following leg cramps in his previous outing against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The Brewers capitalized on Imanaga’s exit, scoring four runs in the inning to secure the victory. For Cubs fans, however, the bigger concern was the health of their ace, who has been a cornerstone of the team’s rotation with an 18-5 record and a 2.89 ERA since joining the Cubs in 2024.

Imanaga’s Update: How Severe Is the Hamstring Strain?

Post-game, Imanaga spoke through his interpreter, Edwin Stanberry, expressing uncertainty about the injury’s severity. “It’s the first time it’s ever happened,” he said, noting he couldn’t gauge the damage immediately. Manager Craig Counsell confirmed that Imanaga would undergo imaging to assess the strain, but no decision on the injured list (IL) would be made until results were clear.

While Imanaga described the injury as distinct from the cramps he experienced in Pittsburgh, the diagnosis of a hamstring strain raises concerns. According to Baseball Prospectus, hamstring strains typically sideline players for three to four weeks, though recovery times vary. Imanaga’s lack of prior lower-body injuries adds uncertainty, as he admitted to being “unsure of what the feeling means.”

What It Means for Imanaga’s Season and the Cubs’ Rotation

Imanaga’s potential absence is a significant blow to a Cubs rotation already reeling from injuries. Justin Steele is out for the season following elbow surgery, and Javier Assad is sidelined with a recurring oblique strain. Imanaga’s 2.77 ERA and All-Star performance have been vital for the NL Central-leading Cubs, who hold a 21-14 record. Losing him for an extended period could jeopardize their divisional lead.

The Cubs have options to fill the void. Veteran Chris Flexen, currently in the bullpen, could transition to the rotation, while top prospect Cade Horton, who boasts a 1.24 ERA at Triple-A Iowa, is a tantalizing possibility. However, Counsell tempered expectations about Horton, stating, “We’re not even close to there yet.”

Outlook: Can Imanaga Bounce Back?

Despite the setback, there’s optimism surrounding Imanaga’s recovery. His resilience is well-documented, with a history of bouncing back from tough outings. In 2024, he posted a 15-3 record and led the Cubs to a strong season, earning a fourth-place finish in NL Rookie of the Year voting. His command and pitching arsenal, including a 92-mph fastball and devastating changeup, make him a critical asset.

For now, Cubs fans await imaging results to determine whether Imanaga will miss a few starts or face a longer stint on the IL. With upcoming off-days, the Cubs could skip his next turn in the rotation, potentially avoiding an IL placement. Regardless, Imanaga’s health will be a storyline to watch as the Cubs navigate a competitive NL Central race.

Stay tuned for updates on Imanaga’s recovery and the Cubs’ plans to keep their rotation strong.