Chicago Cubs expect their opening‑day ace Matthew Boyd to rejoin the rotation during the upcoming road trip. Boyd, an All‑Star in 2025, finished a minor‑league rehab start in Iowa, striking out seven in five innings and throwing 83 pitches. After a torn‑meniscus surgery, he hit the 80‑pitch threshold, signaling readiness for major‑league duty for the season ahead.

Manager Craig Counsell welcomed Boyd back into the clubhouse ahead of Sunday’s game against San Francisco. Boyd has missed three weeks with a biceps strain and has only five starts this season, posting a 2‑1 record and a 6.00 ERA. His return lifts a rotation that has endured multiple injuries and struggles for the season as the team seeks stability in pitching.

While Boyd’s comeback offers hope, the Cubs still face lineup woes. Shortstop Dansby Swanson sits out a second straight game, batting .180, and Pedro Ramirez struggles at second base. With a 19‑loss streak, Chicago must rely on a refreshed rotation and a healthier offense to turn the season around and the team aims for a better outcome by the end.