Cubs’ Early Exit for Shota Imanaga Draws Fan Criticism in Tokyo Loss to Dodgers

Manager Craig Counsell defends decision to pull Imanaga after four no-hit innings, citing workload management, as Cubs fall 4-1 in MLB Opening Day game.

The Chicago Cubs lost 4-1 to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the MLB Opening Day game held in Tokyo, Japan.
Shota Imanaga pitched four no-hit innings but was pulled after 69 pitches as part of a pre-determined plan to manage his workload.
Manager Craig Counsell stated that the decision was made to protect Imanaga’s long-term health for the season, despite fan frustration over the move.
Ben Brown, who replaced Imanaga, allowed three runs in the fifth inning, contributing to the Cubs’ defeat.
The Tokyo Series highlighted the cultural significance of Japanese baseball and the pressures on players like Imanaga to perform on their home soil.