"Jake Irvin has had a brutal time against left-handed hitters: .269/.339/.505 (.361 wOBA) with a staggering 16.4% HR/Fly ball ratio, explaining the decision to swap out Matt Shaw for Michael Conforto."
"Imanaga had a great first year in 2024 and a solid first half of 2025. After dealing with injury, if he's healed up, there's no reason to believe he can't start succeeding again."
The Cubs bounced back from an Opening Day loss to defeat the Nationals 10-2. For Shota Imanaga's first start of 2026, the lineup includes Michael Busch, Alex Bregman, and Michael Conforto, who replaces Matt Shaw due to Jake Irvin's struggles against left-handed hitters. Carson Kelly also replaces Miguel Amaya in the lineup. Imanaga's previous performance was affected by injury, but if healthy, he has the potential to succeed again.
Read at Bleacher Nation
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