Imanaga, Chicago’s dependable option, carries a strong track record but has hit a rough patch with a higher ERA and notable home-run vulnerability. His performance in Game 2 is pivotal for Cubs to even the series and pattern a potential Game 5 scenario.

Imanaga starts Game 2 after a prior postseason appearance; his thoughtful, joyful approach and steady repertoire could pressure Milwaukee’s hitters. Three regular-season starts against Milwaukee give him familiarity, and his measured power-on-power style may dictate the pace of the game.

<p>Imanaga starts Game 2, a thinking-man’s competitor whose joy on the mound pairs with precision. This season he went 9-8 with 3.73 ERA in 25 starts and faced Milwaukee three times (1-2, 3.57 ERA). His 2024 line, 15-3 with 2.91 ERA, underscored a breakout that keeps Cubs rotation hopes alive in a tight series.</p>

Imanaga is slated to rest for Game 2, a strategic lever for Chicago given his usual workload. His conditioning and approach after rest will influence the Cubs’ ability to stabilize the rotation and sustain a playoff push, with fantasy players eyeing how the extra rest could sharpen his effectiveness.

Imanaga was a potential Game 2 starter mentioned as an option for Chicago, representing a rotation pivot aimed at stabilizing the series after Boyd’s rough start.