The Chicago Cubs have made an impressive start to the season, currently leading the National League Central with a 17-12 record, just ahead of the Cincinnati Reds. They faced off against the struggling Pittsburgh Pirates in a three-game series, and during the first game, took a commanding 8-0 lead by the fifth inning. Carson Kelly and Pete Crow-Armstrong contributed homers to the scoreboard.

However, the game took a concerning turn when starting pitcher Shota Imanaga had to exit due to leg cramps. Fortunately for Chicago, this doesn't appear to be a serious issue, and he is expected to make his next start against the Milwaukee Brewers. The Cubs are already missing their ace, Justin Steele, who is out for the season due to elbow surgery, making Imanaga's potential return all the more crucial for their ongoing campaign.