All-Star has special message for Chicago Cubs fans

This season has been a trying one for the Chicago Cubs and their fans. Even after winning two of three games against the Los Angeles Angels at Wrigley Field this weekend for their first series victory since June 17-19, they are still seven games out of .500 and mired in last place in the NL Central.

Fortunately, it hasn’t been all bad for the Cubs. Several players have been bright spots so far, including starting pitcher Shota Imanaga.

The 30-year-old left-hander excelled in his first MLB season after arriving from Japan, going 7-2 with a 3.16 ERA, 1.11 WHIP and 92 strikeouts in 91 innings. For his efforts, he was named Chicago’s lone All-Star on Sunday.

The Cubs later released a special video message from Imanaga to Chicago fans via social media.

“Hey Cubs fans! I am so honored to be selected as an All-Star,” Imanaga began. “Thank you for your continued encouragement and support, whether I pitch well or not. I am proud to represent the Cubs and will do my best at the All-Star Game.”

Imanaga has given Chicago fans plenty to cheer about this season. He’s been spectacular at Wrigley Field, going 3-1 with a 3.40 ERA, 1.03 WHIP and 55-4 K/BB ratio in nine starts so far.

The new All-Star will head to Arlington, Texas, next week for the 2024 MLB All-Star Game. Before he leaves, Imanaga will make at least one more start for the Cubs, as he is scheduled to face the Baltimore Orioles in the series opener Tuesday at Camden Yards.

He could also potentially make another start against the St. Louis Cardinals on the final day before the All-Star break, but manager Craig Counsell might want to skip his usual turn there to give him extended rest before the start of the second half.