Reports: Craig Counsell Delivers Major Health Updates on Two Cubs Pitchers

Cubs Manager Provides Injury Updates on Shota Imanaga and Porter Hodge

The Chicago Cubs have faced a string of injury setbacks, and unfortunately, it looks like this trend is set to continue, according to manager Craig Counsell.

Despite a solid start to the 2025 season with a 28-20 record, placing them atop the National League Central, the Cubs have struggled with growing injury concerns. The team’s depth has been tested early on, and injuries are beginning to pile up, particularly within the pitching staff.

Several pitchers, including Javier Assad, Shota Imanaga, Justin Steele, and multiple relievers, are currently on the injured list, which is a troubling development for the team. Though the Cubs have started strong, their progress has started to plateau, with injuries playing a significant role in that slowdown. While some players are expected to return soon, others are dealing with more serious issues that will require extended recovery, potentially affecting the Cubs’ performance later in the season.

Counsell provided recent updates on two pitchers—Shota Imanaga and Porter Hodge—during a Monday briefing, according to Marquee Sports reporter Taylor McGregor.

Porter Hodge, who is dealing with a left oblique strain, will be placed on the injured list, though he had not yet been officially moved to the 15-day IL as of Monday evening. This news came after the Cubs’ 8-7 loss to the Miami Marlins, when Counsell gave the update.

As for Imanaga, Counsell revealed that the left-hander will need additional time to recover and won’t be throwing off a mound until the end of next week. Imanaga, who has been on the injured list since May 5 with a left hamstring strain, was eligible to return on Tuesday, but it is clear now that he won’t. His return is expected to be “well into June,” according to Counsell.

The loss of Imanaga is particularly tough for the Cubs, who are in desperate need of a boost to their starting rotation. Losing Hodge is another setback, even though he has had struggles this season. Hodge, with a 2-1 record and a 5.12 ERA in 21 games, has been a key high-usage reliever for the Cubs, contributing two saves and six holds. His absence will require further adjustments to the bullpen.