The Chicago Cubs have named left-hander Matthew Boyd as their Opening Day starter against the Washington Nationals, manager Craig Counsell announced Thursday. Boyd, 35, returns to camp after pitching for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, where he appeared in relief during pool play against Mexico.

Boyd decided to leave the WBC after realizing he wouldn't start in the next round, opting to return to Arizona to prepare for the regular season. The veteran pitcher, who emerged as the Cubs' ace last season with a 14-8 record and 3.21 ERA, wasn't guaranteed innings in the tournament after his relief appearance.

Counsell had targeted Boyd for the Opening Day assignment from the start of spring training but needed to ensure his WBC participation wouldn't disrupt his preparation. The decision caps Boyd's remarkable comeback from arm injury in 2024, during which he made the All-Star team and delivered crucial playoff starts for Chicago.