The Chicago Cubs are currently off to a solid start to their season. They are leading the National League Central with a 28-20 record.
However, it’s not all smooth sailing, as the team faced significant injury woes. Manager Craig Counsell recently gave the latest updates on starting pitcher Shota Imanaga, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Unfortunately, it looks like we won’t see Imanaga back on the mound until “well into June.”
This is tough news for Cubs fans, as Imanaga has been a standout performer this season with a sparkling 2.82 ERA in eight starts, and the team wants to be cautious.
Shōta Imanaga will return “well into June”, per Craig Counsell. pic.twitter.com/7N0OvGjE5k
— Cubs Zone (@CubsZone) May 19, 2025
Their main objective is to keep him healthy for a playoff run rather than rush him back just to chase a potential All-Star nod.
Adding to the Cubs’ challenges is the injury to closer Porter Hodge, who’s expected to hit the 15-day injured list due to an oblique strain. Hodge, just 24 and in his second MLB season, showed tremendous promise last year with a 1.88 ERA.
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However, he’s been having a rough go of things in 2025 with a 5.12 ERA. His injury is a real blow, as the bullpen will need to find new arms to step up in his absence.
With both Imanaga and Hodge out of action, the team is facing quite a challenge, and fans are left hoping that their other pitchers can rise to the occasion.
Also Read: Shota Imanaga Injury: Cubs Star’s Latest Update Will Be A Huge Concern For Fans
Chicago Cubs To Recall Top Prospect To Major League
While the Chicago Cubs are dealing with Imanaga’s injury, it’s just the right time to recall top prospect Matt Shaw from Triple-A Iowa.
This will mark his return to the major leagues after a challenging start to the season. Shaw opened the year on the big-league roster but struggled significantly during his initial stint.
Matt Shaw looked pretty comfortable last night 👀
— Baseball America (@BaseballAmerica) May 20, 2025
After heating up in Triple-A, Shaw went 2-for-4 in his return to the big leagues.
(🎥 @Cubs)
pic.twitter.com/10t1KVXi7e
He batted just .172 with a subpar OPS of .541 over 18 games. Despite a rocky start that included more strikeouts than walks, the Cubs are optimistic about his return.
Since being sent down in mid-April, Shaw has substantially improved at Triple-A. He has elevated his batting average to .286 and boasts an impressive OPS of .969. He also has six home runs and a much-improved plate discipline with more walks than strikeouts.
Also Read: Cubs Trade Rumors: Blockbuster Deal Could Land Top Slugger To Support Kyle Tucker
