Imagine a scene straight from a Tokyo baseball movie: a stadium filled with cheering fans, cameras flashing, and two of Japan’s biggest baseball stars facing each other in a Major League game. Shohei Ohtani, the Dodgers’ $700 million superstar, stepped up to bat. On the pitcher’s mound was Shota Imanaga, the Cubs’ humble left-handed pitcher known for his precise throws. This wasn’t just an early-season game; it was about national pride, exceptional skill, and lasting legacy. And Imanaga owned the moment again.

For the tenth straight at-bat, Ohtani couldn’t crack the code. No hits. No answers. Just frustration and respect. But what followed may have been more impressive than the feat itself. After leading the Cubs to a stunning win over the Dodgers in the Tokyo Series opener, Shota Imanaga was asked about his streak of dominance over Ohtani. His response? A masterclass in humility.

“The next 10 at-bats, he might get 10 hits. It’s been a small miracle that it’s happened 10 times in a row,” Imanaga said, downplaying the stats with the same calmness he showed on the mound.

This wasn’t just modesty; it was deep respect. Imanaga didn’t bask in the glow of his success. He redirected it. His message was clear: don’t sleep on Ohtani. Not for a second. And that’s what makes this rivalry, if we can even call it that, so compelling. It’s less Ali vs. Frazier, more student vs. master with a twist: the student keeps winning rounds, but still bows to the master.

Imanaga’s poise comes wrapped in numbers, too. He’s not just riding hype, he’s delivering. A 17-4 record, 2.82 ERA, and now, a symbolic torch-touch with Japan’s most revered baseball export. Yet, he’s not trying to overshadow Ohtani. He’s honoring him.

In a league driven by ego and highlight reels, Imanaga is offering something refreshing: dominance without arrogance. His story isn’t just about striking out Shohei Ohtani. It’s about doing it, smiling humbly, and reminding everyone that miracles don’t last forever.

But for now? He’s the only man with a decade-long clean slate against Ohtani. And that, even he admits, is a little bit magical.

Bullpen warning lights still flashing in Wrigleyville

Cubs fans have every right to enjoy this hot start. Shota Imanaga has been a revelation, the lineup is clicking, and the energy feels different in 2025. But even in the middle of the good vibes, there’s a quiet truth buzzing around Wrigley: this bullpen still makes people nervous.

And not just nervous in the “hold your breath in the ninth” kind of way — we’re talking about full-on flashbacks to blown saves, shaky command, and games slipping away that should’ve been locked down. For a team with playoff potential, that’s a problem you can’t ignore.

Right now, the Cubs are winning in spite of their bullpen, not because of it. There’s no defined closer you fully trust. The bridge from the starters to the late innings still feels like walking a tightrope. If you’re trying to win meaningful games in October, that’s not sustainable.

The good news? There’s time and options. Whether it’s a midseason move for a proven high-leverage arm or calling up a hot hand from the farm, the Cubs have levers to pull. But until they do, no lead feels safe enough. And that lingering fear could be the difference between a fun season and a truly special one.