The Chicago Cubs' remarkable start to the season has hit another speed bump, as left-handed starter Matthew Boyd has been placed on the 15-day injured list with a torn meniscus in his left knee. The injury, which occurred while Boyd was playing with his children, will require surgery, leaving his return timeline uncertain.
Boyd, who posted a 2-1 record with a 6.00 ERA over five starts, becomes the latest addition to an already battered Cubs pitching staff. He joins right-hander Cade Horton, who was lost for the season on April 4 after undergoing Tommy John surgery to repair a torn UCL and flexor tendon. Meanwhile, Justin Steele has also faced a setback in his recovery from last year's Tommy John procedure, with his return now expected after the All-Star break.
With Boyd sidelined, the Cubs are looking to Javier Assad and Ben Brown as potential replacements. However, both pitchers have been crucial in relief roles, especially given the team's injury-riddled bullpen. To fill Boyd's roster spot, the Cubs selected the contract of right-handed reliever Trent Thornton from Triple-A Iowa. The 32-year-old has been sharp in the minors, posting a 3.18 ERA in four appearances, and brings major-league experience with a career 4.38 ERA across stints with the Toronto Blue Jays and Seattle Mariners. Thornton hasn't pitched in the big leagues since a left Achilles injury ended his 2025 season on August 1.
In a corresponding move, left-handed reliever Charlie Barnes was designated for assignment to open a spot on the 40-man roster.
Despite these challenges, the Cubs continue to defy expectations. Entering Wednesday night's home game against the Cincinnati Reds, they hold a commanding 24-12 record, good for first place in the division. Riding a seven-game winning streak and winners of 17 of their last 20 contests, including 13 straight at Wrigley Field, Chicago's resilience is a testament to their depth and determination. For fans and fantasy players alike, keeping an eye on how the rotation shakes out will be key as the season rolls on.