#opening-day-starter

#opening-day-starter

Boyd, who turned 35 last month, tossed a career-high 179 1/3 innings with the Cubs last season. He worked to a strong 3.21 ERA with a slightly below-average 21.4% strikeout rate but a terrific 5.8% walk rate. Boyd is entering the second season of a two-year, $29MM contract.

Ryan was sent for imaging over the weekend after experiencing lower back discomfort, but he's dealing only with inflammation. There should still be ample time for Ryan to be ready for the start of the season. If healthy, he'd be a lock to take the ball on Opening Day after Minnesota lost Pablo López to Tommy John surgery.