Matthew Boyd grateful for his chance with the Cubs

In Chicago, Matthew Boyd recently finalized a major two-year contract worth $29 million with the Chicago Cubs, marking a significant step in his career following a successful recovery from Tommy John surgery. Boyd, a left-handed pitcher, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to a team he has personal ties to, as his grandfather was a devoted Cubs fan. Boyd started his season with the Cleveland Guardians, where he made his debut on August 13, pitching impressively against the Cubs and finished the season with a 2.72 ERA over eight starts. He also played a role in the Guardians' playoff run, making three postseason starts and allowing only one run, while striking out 14 batters in 11 2/3 innings. Looking to boost the Cubs’ chances for a playoff berth, Boyd emphasized the potential of the roster, highlighting young talent and seasoned players like Ian Happ, Cody Bellinger, and Dansby Swanson. His insights into the team's strengths included their offensive versatility and speed, which he believes will prove significant as the Cubs attempt to reach the postseason for the first time since 2020. Boyd’s determination is not only fueled by his recent success in Cleveland but also by the rich legacy of the Cubs that resonates with him personally. With a $5 million signing bonus and annual salaries increasing to $14.5 million, Boyd’s contract reflects the organization’s belief in his capabilities and impact, especially after a challenging recovery period. As the Cubs prepare for the next season, they have also made changes to their coaching staff under manager Craig Counsell, adding a mix of new coaches and promoting some existing staff to new roles. Notably, the Cubs have appointed several specialists, such as a new first base coach and sustaining the core of their coaching from the previous year. This strategic approach showcases the Cubs’ commitment to building a competitive squad capable of contending for championships in the upcoming seasons, making Boyd’s addition a key element in this plan. His history as a pitcher, combined with the experienced roster and new coaching strategies, sets a hopeful tone for the team's efforts in the forthcoming campaign.