Shota Imanaga Delivers Six No-Hit Innings but Cubs Fall 2-0 to Pirates at Wrigley Field

Shota Imanaga held the Pittsburgh Pirates hitless through six innings Friday at Wrigley Field, but the Chicago Cubs were unable to capitalize on opportunities and lost 2-0 before a crowd of 28,811 in Chicago.

Despite the return of slugger Seiya Suzuki to the lineup, the Cubs struggled offensively, failing to deliver with runners in scoring position. The team managed six singles and drew seven walks, putting the leadoff man on base four times, but went 0-for-8 with runners in scoring position. Manager Craig Counsell expressed frustration after the game, noting the inability to convert chances into runs.

Imanaga, a left-hander, threw 100 pitches over six innings, allowing only one baserunner on a walk. He has now pitched at least six scoreless innings without allowing a run in eight of his 57 starts with the Cubs. Although it was one of his strongest showings, Imanaga declined to call it his best start with the team.

After Imanaga exited, the Pirates broke up the no-hit bid in the seventh inning. Ryan O'Hearn singled off reliever Caleb Thielbar, and Bryan Reynolds followed with a two-run home run. The Cubs were unable to respond, and the game ended with Chicago shut out for the second time this season.

Pete Crow-Armstrong had a difficult day at the plate, hitting into a double play and leaving multiple runners stranded. The offensive struggles extend to three regulars—Alex Bregman, Michael Busch, and Dansby Swanson—who each remain below a .200 batting average early in the season.

Cubs president Jed Hoyer commented before the game that drawing conclusions early in the season is premature, emphasizing confidence in the team's offensive potential as the year progresses.

Following Friday's loss, the Cubs continue searching for consistency at the plate, while Imanaga's performance stands out as a promising development. The Pirates and Cubs resume their series this weekend at Wrigley Field.