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Cubs Get Positive Update on Shota Imanaga

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Douglas Santo | Last updated Jun 14, 2025 5:23 PM ET

The Cubs got good news this week on the much-anticipated return on Shota Imanaga. Imanaga pitched two innings in an Arizona Complex League game on Monday, and struck out four batters on 25 pitches, according to pitching coach Tommy Hottovy.

Following Imanaga's two innings, he went back to the bullpen and threw an addition 15 pitches to total 40 pitches on the afternoon.

This was the southpaw's first in game action since he strained his hamstring on May 4 against the Brewers. Hottovy said Imanaga threw between 88 and 90 mph, which is what was expected, and was pleased with the outcome.

"The things he was working on and feeling through in the week leading up, I think he did a great job of taking it into the game," Hottovy said.

Imanaga sent a text to his pitching coach Tuesday saying he felt good and woke up with no issues. The next step for the Cubs' pitcher is another ACL game today.

The goal is for Imanaga to pitch three innings on 50-55 pitches today, and if all goes well, he could make his third rehab start with Triple-A Iowa.

Tommy Hottovy provides an update on Shota Imanaga’s rehab start later today.

“Hopefully three innings, 53-55 pitches.” pic.twitter.com/fO32RDbWbi
— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) June 14, 2025

Although nothing official has been released on Imanaga's outing today, he seemed to pitch very well and even get some extra work in.

Shota Imanaga went 4 inn, 4 Ks, no BB or ER in complex today. Absolutely brutal morning of 105 degrees or hotter. He was so efficient that after 4 he then went to throw 15-20 more pitches in the bullpen. Here’s a cool view of that session direct one #Cubs @Cubs pic.twitter.com/dwTuinMOFq
— The Welsh (@IsItTheWelsh) June 14, 2025

Imanaga had a stellar rookie campaign in 2024 that earned him a spot in the All-Star game. The second-year pitcher out of Japan had continued that dominance through his eight starts this year with a 2.82 ERA.

In his absence, the Cubs have leaned on a mix of young starters and veterans, who have more than done the job. Four of the five Cubs starters have an ERA below four, and Matthew Boyd has led the pack with his 2.79 ERA.

The Cubs have already lost Justin Steele for the season due to an elbow injury he sustained in April.

While they've been without their top two pitchers, the Cubs have managed to exceed all expectations, lead the NL Central and have the second-best record in the National League.

Steele is lost for the season, but the Cubs seem to be on track to have their ace in Imanaga back on the mound soon.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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