The return of Shota Imanaga was supposed to be good news for the Chicago Cubs. And it is no doubt phenomenal news. But with every comeback, there is usually a sacrifice involved, and there is a sacrificial lamb in this happy story, too.
On Thursday, Imanaga was officially activated from the 15-day injured list. Completely ready to make his start in the series against the St. Louis Cardinals. His left hamstring completely healed, and his numbers from the rehab are promising, actually sharp. 4 1/3 scoreless innings, 72 pitches—so he looks every bit ready. But to make room, the Chicago Cubs had to make a rather difficult call.
They had to designate 32-year-old Michael Fulmer for assignment. And it was not something that Cubs manager Craig Counsell took lightly.
Cubs Designate Michael Fulmer For Assignment https://t.co/7o2Ej55pZb
— MLB Transactions (@mlbtrdeals) June 26, 2025
Talking to Marquee Sports Network, Counsell said, “I mean yeah, he’s part of the team, and you miss those guys for sure. We look forward to having him back. I know he’s just excited to get back on a routine where he can go out there and do what he loves to do every four or five days.” They are not happy to let Fulmer go. Because he might have joined the Cubs league only a while back, but he has made a strong impression. In two appearances this week, he tossed three scoreless innings. He gave up just two hits and showed velocity that has not dropped off. It wasn’t just a short burst either. His work at Triple-A Iowa had been great, too. There, he managed a 2.96 ERA with a 32% strikeout rate over 24 1/3 innings.
But Counsell mentioned that this decision was not solely based on performance. It was also about the timing and the roster plan the team had in mind. “Michael did a really nice job. We’re hopeful we can keep him in the organization; he’s got to go through a process here. We kind of mapped this chain of moves out—that’s probably the best way to put it—and nothing really sidetracked us from that path, so this is where we landed.” Fulmer’s journey back to the mound had already included Tommy John surgery not once but twice. Plus, a role shift from rookie ace to late-inning reliever. Now, maybe he might have to see if he is traded, cleared to stay in the Chicago Cubs system itself, or claimed. Whatever happens, one thing is sure—the Cubs are not closing the door on him completely.
This decision, though, comes as a surprise to many, given that Ben Rice being off seemed more likely. However, while saying goodbye to Fulmer wasn’t easy, it’s clear that the Cubs are looking at contending, and that means gearing up. Not just emotionally, but even on the mound.
Chicago Cubs eye two Marlins for in bold trade deadline push
The trade deadline buzz is at its highest peak, and the Chicago Cubs are at the thick of it. But it’s no surprise, right? The injuries and shaky starts have them looking for more than just good vibes this summer. With Shota Imanaga back and hoping to take charge of the rotation, the front office is planning to get some reinforcements to be able to make a deep run postseason. According to Ken Rosenthal, the Cubs are already working the phones. And they are not just calling anybody.
The Chicago Cubs have targeted the same name that is headlining every other team’s wish list—Sandy Alcantara. The Marlins’ ace and former Cy Young winner, for sure, could be a game-changer for the Chicago Cubs. But if you are being honest, his price tag is a bit too rich. But it turns out that, in any case, the Cubs can’t afford it; they already have a backup plan in motion.
The name in the spotlight—Edward Cabrera! He is also with the Miami Marlins and is silently having a loud year! And he could be a long-term asset for the team, with arbitration years still left after 2025, too. Sure, he won’t grab eyeballs and attention the way Alcantara does. However, for the Cubs, he could be the player they need—affordable, available, and effective.
The clock is ticking towards July, and it feels like Chicago is itching to make a move soon. If they get Alcantara, they could be playoff-ready suddenly. Don’t you feel? Let us know.
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