Matt Boyd Gearing Up for World Baseball Classic

Cubs pitcher ready to represent Team USA after strong spring training starts

Feb. 26, 2026 at 11:03pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Matt Boyd, the Cubs' surprise ace in 2025, is preparing for the upcoming World Baseball Classic after two encouraging spring training outings. Boyd will start for Team USA on Tuesday, balancing the thrill of playing for his country with the responsibility of continuing his spring progression ahead of the 2026 MLB season.

Why it matters

Boyd's performance in the WBC will be closely watched, as he looks to build on his breakout 2025 campaign and solidify his status as a top-tier starter for the Cubs. With several other talented pitchers on the Team USA roster, Boyd's ability to handle the high-stakes environment of the tournament will be a key indicator of his readiness for the upcoming season.

The details

In his first two spring training starts, Boyd has thrown 36 and 34 pitches, respectively, and expects his pitch count to increase slightly as the WBC begins. However, he will still be treated as a starter and follow his typical five-day rotation. Team USA manager Mark DeRosa and pitching coach Andy Pettitte have been in regular contact with the Cubs' coaching staff to ensure Boyd is properly prepared for the tournament and the upcoming season.

  • On February 21, Boyd threw 36 pitches in his first spring training start.
  • On February 23, Boyd threw 34 pitches in his second spring training start.
  • On Tuesday, Boyd is slated to start for Team USA in a World Baseball Classic exhibition game.

The players

Matt Boyd

A pitcher for the Chicago Cubs who had a breakout 2025 season and is now preparing for the World Baseball Classic as part of Team USA.

Mark DeRosa

The manager of the Team USA baseball team for the World Baseball Classic.

Andy Pettitte

The pitching coach for the Team USA baseball team for the World Baseball Classic.

Craig Counsell

The manager of the Chicago Cubs.

Tommy Hottovy

The pitching coach for the Chicago Cubs.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The pitch count is going to be building as we go into that tournament. And as far as after that, that'll take care of itself. Just staying on course with [the pitch count], just get to do it for the stars and stripes now.”

— Matt Boyd

“We've got a good plan going forward to make sure I'll be ready for this whole season up ahead.”

— Matt Boyd

“The intensity is going to be different because we're playing for our country. You're out there in front of 50,000 fans as compared to one or two thousand. It's how you mitigate the days after and how you go up to those build ups when the intensity does go higher naturally. You just have to take care of the days after and monitor and do the ample steps in between.”

— Matt Boyd

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.