"Matthew Boyd is a veteran on a staff that doesn't necessarily have a long-standing, team-associated ace. If Justin Steele were healthy, for example, it would just FEEL like he was obviously the guy. But with Cade Horton a relative youngster, there isn't another obvious choice."
"Boyd is coming off an outstanding, All-Star, long and full season with the Cubs. He was the guy who carried so much of the load last year, and a tip of the cap on Opening Day - particularly after all he's done in his career to try to get and stay healthy - seems like a nice thing to do."
"Although the postseason appearances are probably sticking out in peoples' minds, and Boyd did wear down late in the year, let's not forget that he was outrageously good for the first five months. If he's healthy and everything looks right with him, then why wouldn't the Cubs want him getting the ball right away?"
Matthew Boyd has been selected as the Chicago Cubs' Opening Day starter for the 2026 season. This decision reflects several strategic considerations. Boyd brings veteran experience to a pitching staff lacking an established ace, particularly with Justin Steele's health concerns and Cade Horton still developing. Boyd's selection honors his outstanding All-Star season and his career dedication to health and performance. Despite late-season fatigue, Boyd demonstrated exceptional performance during the first five months of the previous season. Additionally, the Cubs' opponent struggles significantly against left-handed pitchers, making Boyd an advantageous choice for Opening Day competition.
Read at Bleacher Nation
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]