ST. LOUIS -- Cubs manager Craig Counsell is not one to announce a decision multiple days before it is necessary or required. There are too many variables in play at all times -- not to mention unpredictable developments that can arrive at any moment.
Here is what the Cubs know right now: Shota Imanaga is returning to the rotation this week. The rest of the decision-making surrounding the situation will be revealed in the coming days.
First, there are games against the Cardinals to be played.
“It’s our job to think in advance, but also, things happen,” Counsell said over the weekend. “Everything is kind of on the table and you play out a bunch of scenarios, and then let the days play out until we have to make a decision.”
Right-handers Ben Brown and Jameson Taillon are scheduled to start for the Cubs on Monday and Tuesday, respectively, against St. Louis. The next two starters are “to be announced” for now. Based on the timing of his recent Minor League rehab start with Triple-A Iowa, Imanaga could take the ball in either game (most likely the Thursday series finale).
In the category of “things happen,” Cubs lefty Matthew Boyd exited his outing on Friday early due to a bruise on his throwing shoulder -- the result of a hard line drive he caught to end the fifth inning. Counsell told reporters on Sunday that Boyd was feeling good and “eager to throw,” so he is also lined up for either Wednesday or Thursday against the Cardinals.
It is also important to remember that the Cubs will err on the side of caution in terms of easing Imanaga back into the mix. On the 15-day injured list due to a left hamstring strain, Imanaga logged 72 pitches in his rehab outing with the I-Cubs on Friday. There will still be a ramp-up to the lefty being fully ready over his next few outings.
“There’s going to be things that Shota needs to continue to work on as he’s coming back,” Cubs pitching coach Tommy Hottovy said. “But just getting him back and having him back with the group of guys, what he brings to the table and just that consistent person he is, too, it’s awesome.”
Counsell did not rule out utilizing a six-man rotation for a period of time. Otherwise, the Cubs have things to consider with the three other members of the rotation.
Rookie righty Cade Horton has performed well in Imanaga’s absence, gaining confidence on the mound, while building trust from the team. Brown has been overpowering in some starts, while also enduring some extremely rough ones. Veteran Colin Rea has performed admirably but also has the ability to slide back into a relief role.
“I think it helps that guys were carrying their weight,” Taillon said. “I think it probably helped Shota not feel rushed, if you want to throw an extra bullpen or you need an extra day in-between, or whatever it is. I don't think there was ever a specific target date like, ‘He has to be back by this day.’ He got to just go through his process and make sure he’s right.
“From watching his outing [Friday] night, he’s right. I think we’re going to get a really good version of Shota back, which is super exciting, because he’s one of the best pitchers in baseball.”