Chicago Cubs left-handed pitcher Matthew Boyd is slated for a one-month absence following a necessary surgical procedure on his left knee. This injury, a meniscus tear, occurred innocuously during playtime with his children. His current status places him on the 15-day injured list, with the organization forecasting his return to mound work by early June, contingent on his rehabilitation progressing smoothly.
The unexpected injury to Boyd, described by Manager Craig Counsell as "unexplainable," has led to significant roster adjustments. In a related move, Corbin Martin was designated for assignment subsequent to a challenging performance against the Cincinnati Reds. The Cubs have since called up Gavin Hollowell, a 27-year-old right-handed reliever from Triple-A Iowa, to bolster their bullpen. Hollowell previously appeared in seven games for the Cubs last season, recording 9 1/3 innings with five earned runs, seven walks, and ten strikeouts.
This current knee issue marks Boyd's second stint on the injured list this season, having previously been sidelined from April 2nd to 21st due to a left biceps strain. In his five starts this season, the 35-year-old has compiled a 2-1 record with an earned run average of 6.00, issuing six walks and striking out 31 batters over 24 innings pitched. Boyd, an All-Star in 2025, boasts a career record of 62-78 with a 4.61 ERA across 218 appearances, including 204 starts, for multiple MLB franchises.
Boyd's removal from the starting rotation now means the Cubs have three starting pitchers on the injured list. He joins fellow hurlers Justin Steele, who is out with a left elbow issue, and Cade Horton, sidelined due to a right elbow ailment. Meanwhile, Corbin Martin, 30, struggled in his recent outings, conceding runs in three consecutive appearances. Across those games, he allowed four hits, walked four batters, and gave up two home runs, facing a total of eleven batters. His season ERA stands at 10.80 across seven relief appearances, without recording a decision.
This setback for Matthew Boyd impacts the Chicago Cubs' pitching depth, requiring other team members to step up in his absence. The team remains hopeful for his speedy and complete recovery, anticipating his return to the rotation in early summer to contribute to their ongoing campaign.
