Cubs' Matthew Boyd Lands on IL with Bicep Injury

Javier Assad recalled as Cubs continue to deal with pitching injuries.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 6:09pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball pitcher's motion broken down into overlapping planes of color and shape, conveying the fragmented nature of the Cubs' injury-plagued rotation.The Cubs' pitching staff continues to be tested by injuries, with starter Matthew Boyd the latest to land on the IL.Chicago Today

The Chicago Cubs have placed starting pitcher Matthew Boyd on the injured list due to a bicep strain, the team announced on Monday. Javier Assad was recalled from the minors in a corresponding roster move as the Cubs continue to navigate early-season pitching injuries.

Why it matters

The Cubs have struggled to a 4-5 start this season, and the loss of Boyd, their projected No. 3 starter, is another blow to a rotation that is already missing Cade Horton. Maintaining a healthy pitching staff will be crucial for the Cubs as they look to climb out of the NL Central basement.

The details

According to reports, Boyd suffered a bicep strain and was placed on the 10-day injured list. Javier Assad, a 25-year-old right-hander, was recalled from the minors to take Boyd's spot on the active roster.

  • The Cubs placed Boyd on the IL ahead of their game against the Rays on Monday, April 6, 2026.

The players

Matthew Boyd

A 30-year-old starting pitcher for the Chicago Cubs.

Javier Assad

A 25-year-old right-handed pitcher recalled from the minors by the Cubs.

Cade Horton

A Cubs starting pitcher who was previously placed on the injured list.

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What they’re saying

“Starting pitching injury concerns have been a problem for Chicago early this season.”

— Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune reporter

What’s next

The Cubs will need to find a way to fill Boyd's spot in the rotation while he recovers from the bicep injury. They will hope to get him back healthy as soon as possible to bolster their pitching staff.

The takeaway

The Cubs' early-season pitching woes continue, as they now lose another key starter in Matthew Boyd to injury. Maintaining a healthy rotation will be crucial for the team as they look to turn around their slow start to the 2026 season.