Cubs’ Crucial Pitching Decisions for Postseason Opener

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The Chicago Cubs have again turned to left-hander Matthew Boyd to open their postseason campaign. Boyd, who started Game 1 in last year’s wild-card series against the San Diego Padres, will take the mound at Petco Park this Tuesday. The Cubs could have chosen right-hander Kevin Gausman, but opted for Boyd.

Last season, Boyd limited the Padres to one run over 4 1/3 innings during Game 1 at Wrigley Field. “The first two months of the season were interrupted, but since then he’s settled into a routine,” said manager Craig Counsell. “Matthew’s experienced playoff starts and succeeded, and we expect the same tomorrow.”

Boyd returned from meniscus surgery on June 25 and recorded a 3.42 ERA in his last 17 starts. He held opponents to three earned runs or fewer in 12 of those outings. Counsell hasn’t detailed plans for who will start Games 2 or 3. Gausman, who injured his shoulder in his final regular-season start, is likely to pitch later in the series.

The Cubs are carrying 12 pitchers in their wild-card roster. Left-hander Shota Imanaga is expected to play a role, either as a starter or reliever. Right-hander Clay Holmes is set to provide relief, either by starting or delivering multiple innings from the bullpen.

“I look at these games as having 27 outs to get,” Counsell noted. “The roles like starter or closer don’t matter. We need 27 outs.”

The Cubs’ strategy beyond Game 1 depends on whether they win or lose the opener. Wednesday’s Game 2 will require full effort if they fail to win on Tuesday. “Winning is everything,” Counsell emphasized. “In short series, your approach needs adjusting.”

The Cubs face an additional challenge playing at Petco Park, where the Padres had a formidable 51-30 home record this year. The Cubs must contend with the Padres’ 40-41 road performance and adapt accordingly.

An undecided factor is whether Alex Bregman can start at third base. Returning from multiple facial fractures, he took grounders during practice. His potential return energizes the Cubs’ lineup. “His quick comeback excites us,” Pete Crow-Armstrong stated. “He’s passionate and ready to compete.”