Overview
- Shota Imanaga threw 25 pitches over two innings in a June 9 rehab start for the Arizona Complex League Cubs, striking out four and allowing one hit with consistent velocity.
- He is scheduled for another minor-league outing this Saturday to build up to 50-55 pitches before moving to Triple-A and targeting a full return by the end of June.
- Justin Steele underwent season-ending elbow surgery in April, and relievers Porter Hodge, Javier Assad and Eli Morgan are also sidelined by injuries.
- Veterans Jameson Taillon and Matthew Boyd along with rookies Cade Horton, Colin Rea and Ben Brown have helped the Cubs post an 18-12 record since May 5.
- Despite multiple pitching setbacks, Chicago has maintained a 40-26 mark and leads the National League Central as it pursues a postseason berth.