Chicago Cubs Pitcher Shota Imanaga Aims to Rebuild Trust After Rough Outings; Manager Counsell Defends Lefty
Chicago Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga expressed a desire to rebuild trust after recent rough outings, while manager Craig Counsell defended the lefty, stating the narrative around him is "a little incorrect" and highlighting his strong post-All-Star break performance and importance…
Chicago, IL, September 5, 2026 — Chicago Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga has voiced a desire to rebuild trust following a series of recent challenging performances on the mound. Imanaga, a key member of the Cubs’ pitching staff, acknowledged the need to regain confidence after what he described as recent rough outings. The exact nature of these outings or specific dates were not detailed in the provided information.
In response to discussions surrounding Imanaga’s recent pitching, manager Craig Counsell offered a defense of the left-handed pitcher. Counsell stated that the current narrative characterizing Imanaga’s performance is “a little incorrect.” He pointed to the pitcher’s effectiveness after the All-Star break as a key indicator of his capabilities and value to the team.
Counsell emphasized Imanaga’s importance for team confidence, suggesting that his strong performances are vital for the overall morale and performance of the Chicago Cubs. The manager did not provide specific statistics or detailed examples of Imanaga’s post-All-Star break success, but highlighted its significance. The contractor’s name was not provided. The fine amount was not provided. Details regarding any specific code violations or inspection outcomes were also not provided.
Imanaga’s expressed wish to rebuild trust indicates a personal commitment to improving his on-field results and reinforcing his standing with the team and its fanbase. The manager’s public support underscores the club’s continued belief in his potential and contribution to the team’s objectives. Further details on specific game performances or future plans were not made available.
Additional information regarding the specifics of Imanaga’s recent struggles, the exact timeframe of his post-All-Star break performance, or the precise reasons behind the perceived ‘incorrect’ narrative were not elaborated upon. The manager’s comments serve as a point of reassurance for the pitcher and the team as they move forward.
Story summarized from the original created by Vinnie Duber on chicago.suntimes.com, see more information here.
