Shota Imanaga will make his first playoff start aiming to help the Chicago Cubs avoid a losing streak.

Following the Cubs’ loss to the Brewers in the opening game of the National League Division Series, it has been decided that Japanese pitcher Shota Imanaga will start in the second game tomorrow. In what will be his second playoff appearance and first start, he is determined to stop the team from falling into a two-game losing streak before heading back to their home field.

“Just being able to stand on this stage should inspire confidence and is something to be proud of. No matter the result, I want to return home with my head held high,” Shota Imanaga said during an interview with American media the day before the game.

In the second game of the Wild Card Series, Imanaga pitched four innings, serving as a long reliever in a fake starter strategy. Now, he will make his first official start. He stated, “During the game, I can only rely on what I have built up during practice; it’s impossible to suddenly do things I normally can’t. I just need to firmly execute the preparations I have made and show that during the game.”

Matthew Boyd, who started the first game of the Wild Card Series and pitched 4.1 innings allowing one run, faced only eight batters yesterday against the Brewers before exiting. He gave up four hits and six runs (two earned). The Cubs were overwhelmed by the Brewers' heavy offense, conceding nine runs in the first two innings.

Imanaga said, “Every Brewers hitter clearly knows their role, and their coordination yesterday was excellent. That’s what makes their lineup so dangerous. So I have to stay steady and create outs one by one.”