Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga has made a significant change in his attitude towards Japanese-speaking reporters following a 6-0 loss to the Dodgers. He stated that he no longer wants to use his Japanese heritage as an excuse for his performance, but instead wants to carry himself proudly as a major-leaguer. Tommy Hottovy, the Cubs’ pitching coach since 2019, has seen Imannaga's tendency to hold himself to a high standard and to strive for perfect results. Veteran pitcher Jameson Taillon said he never noticed Imanagan having a hard time rebounding from a poor outing. The team is now using common language to communicate during games.