The Chicago Cubs are eagerly anticipating the return of left-hander Shota Imanaga, who is set to make a rehab start for Triple-A Iowa. After recovering from a left hamstring strain, Imanaga boasts an impressive 2.82 ERA over eight starts this season, contributing significantly to the Cubs' success in the NL Central.

Cubs manager Craig Counsell noted that Imanaga's performance on Friday will dictate the next steps for the team. Having made six scoreless innings in his previous rehab starts in the Arizona Complex League, the anticipation is high that he can quickly rejoin the Cubs' rotation and bolster their lead as they aim for a strong finish to the season.

In addition, reliever Porter Hodge is also progressing well, following his recovery from a left oblique strain. Hodge threw a scoreless inning in Iowa and is expected to have at least one more appearance before rejoining the major league team. His return could provide additional depth to a bullpen that is crucial in the late stages of the season.