Cubs Pick Experienced Pitcher for Opening Day

The Chicago Cubs have chosen veteran left‑handed pitcher Matthew Boyd to start their first game of the season. The decision was announced by manager Craig Counsell on Thursday, with Boyd set to face the Washington Nationals at Wrigley Field on March 26. Boyd, who is 35 years old, will be in his third opening‑day start. He previously earned this role with the Detroit Tigers in 2020 and 2021, when games were played under unusual conditions. In 2020 the opener was held without fans, and in 2021 only a small crowd attended. The pitcher expressed gratitude for the honor. He said he feels special to be chosen and that opening day means a lot to both Cubs fans and his family. He also noted that the game is just one of many in a season, but it carries extra weight.The Cubs wanted to avoid any conflict with the World Baseball Classic that year. They decided Boyd would return to spring training early so he could build up his stamina and avoid missing innings in the tournament. After a bullpen session on Thursday, Boyd is slated to start a Cactus League game against the Colorado Rockies on Saturday. Manager Counsell said Boyd is in good shape and will have a normal spring schedule. He praised Boyd’s performance last year, especially after recovering from injury. Boyd finished the previous season with a 3. 21 earned run average over 31 starts, covering his most innings since 2019. He also made his first All‑Star appearance in an eleven‑year career. He reflected on the season’s highs and lows, saying he would not change anything about his experience. The Cubs look forward to seeing how Boyd’s opening‑day outing will set the tone for their campaign.