Imanaga brings a crafty, multi-speed mix to Chicago’s rotation, challenging Milwaukee’s right-handed hitters with deception and off-speed variety. In a series with high-leverage, he could deliver quality innings while testing Brewers’ ability to adjust. His performance will influence Chicago’s chance to stay in the race against a hot Milwaukee squad.

Imanaga spun seven strong innings, allowing a solo homer to Pham but limiting other hits while punching out six. His efficiency (85 pitches) and the Cubs’ defense supported a long relief stint that kept Chicago in control, setting up a late rally.

Imanaga worked seven innings of three-hit ball, delivering another quality start and providing Chicago with length and stability. His outing, punctuated by a brief pause to listen for planes during the Air and Water Show, underscores his poise and ability to anchor a rotation that benefits from deep starts.

Imanaga carries a strong strikeout rate and a sub‐3.20 ERA; entering this start with 79 Ks and a 0.97 WHIP, he’s drawn attention for upside in strikeouts and run prevention, making him a focal point for DFS and betting angles in this Cubs‐Pirates tilt.

Imanaga pitched deep into the game with nine strikeouts and zero walks, delivering an elite whiff rate despite taking the loss. His outing underscored his ceiling in fantasy formats that prize innings with strong ratios, keeping him in the mix for spot starts and deep-league streaming when lined up against weaker offenses.