Shota Imanaga is set to rejoin the Chicago Cubs after a promising rehab start, per manager Craig Counsell. The left-hander, who boasted a 15-3 record with a 2.91 ERA last season, returns from a hamstring injury that sidelined him since early May. In his latest outing with Triple-A Iowa, he pitched 4 1/3 innings of scoreless ball, striking out eight. The Cubs, leading the NL Central, anticipate that Imanaga's return will bolster their rotation as they continue to fend off competitors like Milwaukee and St. Louis.

Imanaga's impressive performance in the minors, coupled with his previous rookie success, suggests he could be a key asset moving forward. The Cubs also made roster changes by recalling Nate Pearson from Iowa, while designating Génesis Cabrera for assignment. As the Cubs gear up for their series in St. Louis, the focus will be on how Imanaga's regained form can contribute to maintaining their lead in the division.