Chicago Cubs Make a Splash: Matthew Boyd Joins Rotation in $29M Deal
CHICAGO — The Chicago Cubs are wasting no time making moves this offseason, and their first big splash is sure to turn some heads. The Cubs have reportedly agreed to a two-year, $29 million contract with veteran left-hander Matthew Boyd, according to sources and multiple reports confirmed by ESPN. The deal also includes the potential for Boyd to earn an additional $1 million in performance bonuses over the two years, pending a physical.
At 33 years old, Boyd is coming off a remarkable comeback season after undergoing Tommy John surgery. He made a strong impression in 2024, going 2-2 with a stellar 2.72 ERA in eight starts for the Cleveland Guardians. Boyd also shined in the postseason, making three starts for the AL Central champions and allowing just one run while striking out 14 batters over 11 2/3 innings. Talk about clutch pitching when it matters most!
Boyd’s journey back to the mound was nothing short of inspiring. After signing with Cleveland in June, he made his season debut on August 13, pitching 5 1/3 innings of one-run ball against none other than his new team, the Cubs. That performance clearly left an impression on Chicago’s front office, and now Boyd will be suiting up in Cubbie blue for the next two seasons.
What Boyd Brings to the Cubs
Adding Boyd to the rotation gives the Cubs a solid left-handed option to complement their existing arms. He joins a rotation that already features Justin Steele, Shota Imanaga, and Jameson Taillon. With this group, the Cubs are looking to build on their back-to-back second-place finishes in the NL Central, where they posted identical 83-79 records in 2023 and 2024.
Boyd’s ability to perform under pressure, as evidenced by his postseason success, could be a game-changer for a Cubs team that’s been on the cusp of contention. His veteran presence and leadership will also be invaluable in a rotation that features a mix of experience and youth.
Why This Move Matters
For Cubs fans, this signing signals that the front office is serious about taking the next step. After two straight seasons of falling short in the division, the team is clearly looking to bolster its roster and make a push for the playoffs. Boyd’s addition not only strengthens the rotation but also sends a message to the rest of the league: the Cubs are ready to compete.
Here’s a quick breakdown of why this move is significant:
- Proven Track Record: Boyd’s 2.72 ERA in 2024 shows he’s still got plenty left in the tank, even after Tommy John surgery.
- Postseason Pedigree: His dominant playoff performances for Cleveland prove he can deliver in high-stakes situations.
- Rotation Depth: Adding Boyd gives the Cubs a more balanced and formidable starting rotation.
Of course, the deal is still pending a physical, but assuming all goes well, Boyd will be a key piece of the puzzle for Chicago in 2025 and beyond.
What’s Next for the Cubs?
With Boyd in the fold, the Cubs may not be done making moves this offseason. The team has shown a willingness to spend in recent years, and fans will be eager to see if more reinforcements are on the way. Could another big bat or bullpen arm be next on the shopping list? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: the Cubs are gearing up for a serious run at the NL Central crown.
For now, though, the focus is on Boyd and what he brings to the table. Cubs fans, get ready—this could be the start of something special on the North Side.
Originally Written by: Associated Press
