Cubs ink bounce-back veteran starting pitcher while larger questions remain

The Chicago Cubs took a step toward bolstering their starting rotation on Sunday night as they inked veteran left-handed starting pitcher Matthew Boyd to a two-year deal.

While the Cleveland Guardians were on their run to the American League Championship Series this past October, we highlighted Boyd as a potential target for the Cubs this offseason.

In an offseason where the Cubs declined the 2025 option on Drew Smyly, the thinking was that Boyd could serve as a swingman for the Cubs, splitting time between the starting rotation and bullpen. However, with a $14.5MM price tag for each season, it seems as if the Cubs envision Boyd rounding out the bottom of their starting rotation.

When healthy, Boyd has flashed the ability to be a solid mid-rotation starting pitcher. Boyd's 2024 season was proof of that as he posted a 2.72 ERA in 8 starts with the Guardians after returning from Tommy John surgery. The concern, however, is that Boyd hasn't eclipsed 100 innings pitched in a season since 2019.

At first blush, Boyd's signing has the impression that a larger trade is looming for the Cubs this offseason. The priority for the Cubs this winter has been to add an established starting pitcher near the top of their starting rotation. Boyd doesn't check that box. But with recent rumors that Jordan Wicks and Javier Assad could be a part of a Cubs' trade package this offseason, Boyd would, in theory, slot into the spot they are vacating.

One thing is clear, Boyd can't be the main addition the Cubs make to their starting pitcher. While there is much to like with his profile, counting on him to stay healthy enough to be in the starting rotation for all of 2025 would be a risk. With the Winter Meetings one week away, expect trade rumors to tick up for the Cubs looking for a high-end starting pitcher under team control.