The Chicago Cubs are relying on left-hander Matthew Boyd to kick off their postseason. Boyd, who started Game 1 in last year’s wild-card series against the San Diego Padres, is once again taking the mound as the Cubs face the Padres at Petco Park on Tuesday. The team decided against starting right-hander Kevin Gausman, choosing the lefty instead. Last year, Boyd limited the Padres to one run in 4 1/3 innings at Wrigley Field.
Manager Craig Counsell commented on Boyd’s current form, saying, “The first two months of the season were interrupted, but since then he’s been consistent. That’s what Matthew offers.” Boyd returned from meniscus surgery on June 25, maintaining a 3.42 ERA over 17 starts, allowing three earned runs or fewer in 12 outings.
Counsell did not specify the starters for Games 2 or 3, with Game 3 being necessary only if there is no winner by then. Gausman, who suffered a left shoulder injury in his final regular-season start, remains a consideration for the upcoming games in the series. Though trending towards recovery, Gausman wasn’t an option for Tuesday’s start.
For the wild-card roster, the Cubs plan to include 12 pitchers. Left-hander Shota Imanaga could play a role in this series, though it’s uncertain if he’ll start or relieve. Right-hander Clay Holmes may offer bulk innings in various roles despite his recent struggles.
The best-of-three series allows the Cubs’ pitching staff to be flexible. Counsell said, “We’re focused on getting 27 outs, regardless of how we do it.” Winning Game 1 will guide the team’s approach for the rest of the series. Losing could lead to an all-hands-on-deck effort for Game 2.
Facing the Padres, known for their strong home record of 51-30 compared to 40-41 on the road, means the Cubs must adapt to a challenging environment at Petco Park.
The Cubs are also deciding on Alex Bregman’s role. Playing with facial fractures, he might start as the designated hitter rather than at third base. Bregman’s swift return energizes the team, with Pete Crow-Armstrong noting, “He’s wonderfully crazed about his work.”
The Cubs aim to win two out of the next three games, focusing less on aesthetics and more on securing victories.
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