Cubs Name Matthew Boyd as Opening Day Starting Pitcher

Manager Craig Counsell confirms veteran left-hander will take the mound against the Nationals

Mar. 12, 2026 at 7:23pm

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The Chicago Cubs have named veteran left-hander Matthew Boyd as their Opening Day starting pitcher for their matchup against the Washington Nationals. Manager Craig Counsell made the announcement, noting that Boyd recently returned from competing with Team USA in the World Baseball Classic but opted to start the Cubs' season opener instead of continuing in the tournament.

Why it matters

Boyd is coming off an All-Star season with the Cubs in 2025, his first year with the team, and the organization has high expectations for the pitching staff as they look to build on their return to the playoffs. His Opening Day start will be a key moment to kick off the new season and set the tone for the Cubs' championship aspirations.

The details

Over 31 starts last season, Boyd pitched to a 3.21 ERA and a 154/42 K/BB ratio. He will be leading a rotation that also features Shota Imanaga and Jameson Taillon, with newcomer Edward Cabrera also looking to bring more consistency. Counsell said Boyd was given the option to either start Opening Day or continue competing in the World Baseball Classic, and the veteran left-hander ultimately chose the former.

  • Matthew Boyd will make his third career Opening Day start and first with the Cubs on March 28, 2026.

The players

Matthew Boyd

A veteran left-handed pitcher who made his first All-Star team in 2025, his debut season with the Cubs.

Craig Counsell

The manager of the Chicago Cubs, who announced that Boyd will be the team's Opening Day starting pitcher.

Shota Imanaga

A member of the Cubs' starting rotation, returning from the 2025 season.

Jameson Taillon

A member of the Cubs' starting rotation, returning from the 2025 season.

Edward Cabrera

A new addition to the Cubs' starting rotation, looking to bring more consistency to the pitching staff.

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What they’re saying

“Boyd was given the option to either start Opening Day or continue competing in the World Baseball Classic, and the veteran left-hander ultimately chose the former.”

— Craig Counsell, Manager, Chicago Cubs (Marquee Sports Network)

What’s next

The Cubs will open their 2026 season against the Washington Nationals on March 28, with Matthew Boyd taking the mound as the team's Opening Day starter.

The takeaway

The Cubs are counting on Matthew Boyd to set the tone for their 2026 season after his breakout All-Star campaign in 2025. His Opening Day start will be a key moment as the team looks to build on its return to the playoffs and take the next step towards a championship.