WATCH: Craig Counsell on Imanaga's injury and what recovery will look like

Tony Crumpton - Senior Editor - 16 hours ago

Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell addressed the media ahead of Tuesday's game against the San Francisco Giants about Shota Imnaga's injury and trip to the IL.

Watch the pregame video below:

Video summary/cliff notes:

(00:01–00:59): Counsell says Imanaga's recovery process will become clearer after a few weeks; currently, they’re focused on symptom relief and light arm movement before progressing with more intensity.

(01:00–01:25): He emphasizes that although it's a hamstring injury like Justin Steele's from last year, each case is unique due to individual differences and injury severity.

(01:26–02:00): Imanaga's hamstring injury is clinically classified as grade one; they plan to proceed cautiously since it’s his first lower-body injury.

(02:01–02:55): Counsell comments on the mental challenge of injury for Imanaga, noting that rest is crucial and sometimes the hardest part for athletes during recovery.

(03:12–03:44): He reflects on how rapidly weather conditions can shift during games at Wrigley Field, especially wind, which significantly affects gameplay.

(04:00–04:57): Counsell agrees with Ian Happ’s observation that the team’s focus on taking games one at a time helps players stay present and avoid getting worn down by the season’s grind.

(05:21–06:14): Cubs pitcher Cade Horton has been limited to ~75 pitches per outing in Triple-A; Counsell says that’s appropriate for early May and post-injury management.

(06:14–08:11): Counsell praises Pete Crow-Armstrong’s development in base-stealing and defense, noting how speed disrupts defenders and that physical tools are taught and refined over time.

(08:40–10:48): Pete’s defensive improvements are highlighted—he’s completing tough plays more consistently and saving bases even on unnoticed plays, showing growth through experience and failure.

(11:06–12:25): Dansby Swanson’s offensive hot streak is discussed; Counsell adds that the balanced lineup relieves pressure, letting players contribute without needing to "carry" the team alone.