Matthew Boyd named Cubs' Opening Day starter for 2026 season

Veteran pitcher to take the mound as Cubs aim to return to playoffs

Mar. 12, 2026 at 6:05pm

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Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell has named veteran pitcher Matthew Boyd as the team's Opening Day starter for the 2026 MLB season. Boyd, coming off one of the best seasons of his career in 2025, will get the ball on March 26 when the Cubs open the season at Wrigley Field against the Washington Nationals.

Why it matters

The Cubs are looking to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2020, and Boyd's selection as the Opening Day starter signals the team's confidence in his ability to lead the rotation and set the tone for the season. As a veteran presence, Boyd's experience and consistency could be crucial in helping the Cubs achieve their postseason goals.

The details

In 31 starts last season, Boyd posted a record of 14-8 with a 3.21 ERA, striking out 154 batters and walking just 42 in 179.2 innings of work. He was named an All-Star for the first time in his career. The Nationals have named Cade Cavalli as their Opening Day starter, setting up an intriguing matchup between the two aces.

  • The 2026 MLB season will begin on March 26.
  • Matthew Boyd will make his Opening Day start for the Cubs on March 26.

The players

Matthew Boyd

A veteran pitcher who had one of the best seasons of his career in 2025, earning his first All-Star selection. He will be the Cubs' Opening Day starter in 2026.

Craig Counsell

The manager of the Chicago Cubs, who has named Matthew Boyd as the team's Opening Day starter for the 2026 season.

Cade Cavalli

The Washington Nationals' Opening Day starter for the 2026 season, setting up an intriguing matchup against Matthew Boyd and the Cubs.

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What they’re saying

“Matt Boyd is your Opening Day starter. 🫡”

— Chicago Cubs, Twitter account (Twitter)

What’s next

The Cubs and Nationals will face off on Opening Day, March 26, 2026, with Matthew Boyd taking the mound for the Cubs and Cade Cavalli starting for the Nationals.

The takeaway

The selection of Matthew Boyd as the Cubs' Opening Day starter for 2026 demonstrates the team's confidence in his ability to lead the rotation and set the tone for a potential playoff push. As a veteran presence, Boyd's experience and consistency could be crucial in helping the Cubs return to the postseason for the first time since 2020.