Boyd helps the Cubs beat the Angels 6-2 in rubber game of series

Matthew Boyd strikes out 10 as Chicago takes the series finale

Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:18pm

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Matthew Boyd struck out 10 while pitching into the sixth inning, and the Chicago Cubs beat the Los Angeles Angels 6-2 on Wednesday. Nico Hoerner had three hits for Chicago, and Matt Shaw had two hits and two RBI in the rubber game of the three-game series.

Why it matters

The Cubs' victory over the Angels in the series finale marks an important early-season win for the team as they look to build momentum and compete in the NL Central division. Boyd's strong outing on the mound was a key factor in the win.

The details

Boyd (1-1) allowed two runs, one earned, and two hits over 5 2/3 innings in his second start of the season. The Cubs grabbed control with five runs in the third inning, including RBI singles from Shaw and Pete Crow-Armstrong. The Angels scored two runs in the sixth, but the Cubs added an unearned run in the seventh.

  • The game was played on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

The players

Matthew Boyd

The Chicago Cubs starting pitcher who struck out 10 batters over 5 2/3 innings.

Nico Hoerner

The Chicago Cubs infielder who had three hits in the game.

Matt Shaw

The Chicago Cubs player who had two hits and two RBIs in the game.

Yusei Kikuchi

The Los Angeles Angels starting pitcher who was charged with five runs and six hits over 5 1/3 innings.

Mike Trout

The Los Angeles Angels outfielder who scored a run in the game.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

The takeaway

Boyd's strong pitching performance and the Cubs' timely hitting were the keys to their victory over the Angels in the rubber game of the series. The win gives the Cubs momentum as they look to compete in the NL Central division this season.