Matthew Boyd is set for an upcoming start with the Chicago Cubs. Although the exact date remains uncertain, his progress is promising. Boyd, who recently pitched a bullpen session at Citi Field and completed a successful rehab start at High-A South Bend, is recovering well. Originally slated for a return in San Francisco, left shoulder soreness after a bullpen session on June 9 in Denver delayed his comeback. This led the Cubs to schedule another rehab start for him over the weekend.
Boyd might start in Thursday’s series finale against the New York Mets. However, Manager Craig Counsell is hesitant to finalize this, especially with the possibility of a game delay due to rain, which was rescheduled as a split doubleheader on Wednesday. Speaking about his situation, Boyd expressed a desire to compete but emphasized the need for patience and readiness when the opportunity arises. “You learn to make the most of the time when that opportunity isn’t available,” Boyd said on Monday. “So when that time does come around, you can be ready to help the team to the best ability you can.”
Craig Counsell highlighted the significant progress Boyd has made over the last week, especially after his shoulder issues emerged post a June 6 rehab at Triple-A Iowa. Boyd’s performance includes five starts and 24 innings this season, limited by meniscus surgery and a biceps strain from early April. Counsell underscored the importance of Boyd’s consistent presence in the game, stating, “We’ve got to get Matt out there consistently.” According to Counsell, a regular schedule is essential to truly monitor Boyd’s progress, mentioning that proper routine through rotations is crucial.
“How the mechanics are working and all that, in relation to kind of where I was two weeks prior and coming out of that last (rehab) start, it couldn’t have been better.”
The Cubs scrutinized Boyd’s delivery amid shoulder issues, identifying variations from the 2025 season. These included differences in his arm height. Boyd noted minor mechanical adjustments have helped alleviate his discomfort, allowing for a quicker recovery.
Player Achievements and Challenges Faced by the Cubs
Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong secured the National League player of the week title once again, following his excellent performance at the plate. Earlier this month, he received this honor on June 8, marking his first achievement of this kind. Crow-Armstrong is the first Cubs player to win this accolade multiple times in a single month since Derrek Lee in May 2005. During five games, Crow-Armstrong achieved a .550 batting average with four home runs, seven RBIs, one double, one triple, four walks, five runs, two stolen bases, and maintained a 1.300 slugging percentage alongside a .600 on-base percentage.
Counsell, when asked about Crow-Armstrong’s exceptional play, emphasized the result-driven nature of baseball. He praised Crow-Armstrong’s strategic performance against Blue Jays reliever Mason Fluharty. Mastering his at-bat, Crow-Armstrong overcame a challenging 0-2 count to single and load the bases, highlighting his ability to make decisive swing choices.
The Cubs are navigating challenges in the All-Star Game voting due to recent offensive struggles. The MLB released recent voting tallies as the first voting phase for All-Star starters nears its end. The final vote results, determining starters and rosters, will be announced on July 4 at 6:30 p.m. Several Cubs players rank within the top ten for their respective positions but remain shadowed by league leaders. Despite being a favored NL starter last year, Crow-Armstrong is currently 14th among outfielders, and Seiya Suzuki ranks 16th.
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