Cubs Bounce Back with Win Over Angels

Matthew Boyd's strong start and a big 3rd inning lift Chicago to a series-tying victory.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 11:26pm

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The Chicago Cubs bounced back from a series-opening loss to the Los Angeles Angels, winning 6-2 on Wednesday afternoon at Wrigley Field. Starter Matthew Boyd pitched 5.2 strong innings, and the Cubs broke the game open with a 5-run 3rd inning to even the series at a game apiece.

Why it matters

After dropping the series opener, the Cubs needed a win to avoid falling behind early in the season. Boyd's performance was an encouraging sign for the team's starting rotation, while the offense showed its ability to break out with a big inning against a tough left-handed pitcher.

The details

The Cubs got on the board in the 3rd inning, with Nico Hoerner driving in the first run with an RBI double. Alex Bregman, Dansby Swanson, Matt Shaw, and Pete Crow-Armstrong all added run-scoring hits to give the Cubs a 5-0 lead. Angels starter Yusei Kikuchi struggled mightily in the frame. Boyd was dominant early, racking up 10 strikeouts, but ran into trouble in the 6th inning before the bullpen closed out the win.

  • The game was played on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at Wrigley Field in Chicago.
  • The Cubs scored 5 runs in the bottom of the 3rd inning.

The players

Matthew Boyd

The Cubs' starting pitcher, who threw 5.2 innings of 2-run ball with 10 strikeouts.

Nico Hoerner

The Cubs' second baseman, who had 3 hits including a double and an RBI.

Yusei Kikuchi

The Angels' starting pitcher, who struggled mightily in the 3rd inning and took the loss.

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What they’re saying

“Matthew Boyd was completely locked in from the start of the game for the North Siders, piling up strikeouts through the first five innings.”

— Sean Holland, Author

What’s next

The Cubs will have an off day on Thursday before heading to Cleveland to face the Guardians on Friday.

The takeaway

The Cubs' bounce-back win evens the series and demonstrates the team's ability to respond after a tough loss. Boyd's strong outing is a positive sign for the rotation, while the offense showed its potential to break out with a big inning.