USA Today via Reuters
Apr 7, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga (18) pitches against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Apr 7, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga (18) pitches against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
The Tokyo Series opener between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs saw Shota Imanaga’s near-perfect outing cut short, sparking a debate among fanatics and analysts. The Japanese left-hander, dazzled on the mound, was throwing 4 perfect innings with no hits, no runs, and 2 strikeouts, but was pulled after just 70 pitches when, in a surprising move, Cubs manager Craig Counsell decided to take him out.
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Craig defended his decision, emphasizing that the move was part of a pre-established part. “Getting to 70 pitches was the number we had for Shōta, after he finished that inning it was the right time to take him out,” he explained. While the early pull sparked reactions from the baseball world, Counsell was firm on his belief: the long-term health and strategy of his pitcher came first.
Craig Counsell on pulling Shōta Imanaga:
“Getting to 70 pitches was the number we had for Shōta, after he finished that inning it was the right time to take him out.” pic.twitter.com/XpO0XjHwnU
— Cubs Zone (@CubsZone) March 18, 2025
However, this move has ignited fiery questions—was Counsell right to stick to his plan, or did he deprive Imanaga of a historic feat? Now, while the decision may have cost the Cubs a piece of history, it highlights the delicate balance between short-term victories and long-term vision. As the Tokyo Series progresses, the question is: Will this decision prove to be a masterstroke or a missed opportunity?
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Cubs fans split on Craig Counsell’s bold Imanaga call
When Craig Counsell made the call to pull Shota Imanaga after just 4 perfect innings in the Tokyo Series opener, it didn’t just stir up questions; it divided the Chicago Cubs’ fanbase! Was it a precautionary move to protect the pitcher’s future, or did the Cubs manager rob Shota Imanaga of a shot at baseball history?
On one side were the fans who understood the long-term thinking behind the move. It is literally March month; they know the manager’s strategy of limiting Imanaga’s pitch count and prioritizing his health. These fans recognize that in the modern era of baseball, where player longevity is key, such decisions are becoming increasingly common.
On the other hand, there were plenty of fans who were frustrated and disappointed by the decision. They felt that Imanaga deserved a shot at history. With the Cubs up against the powerful Los Angeles Dodgers, pulling a pitcher who was executing a perfect game seemed like a missed opportunity for something rare and unforgettable—this moment could have solidified his place in the Cubs’ lore!
As this debate continues, Cubs fans are left to weigh the balance between playing it safe and seizing the rare moment in baseball.
Written by
Edited by
Sanchari Bhaduri