Chicago Cubs Update: Matthew Boyd’s Return and Player Achievements
Matthew Boyd Prepares for Return to Cubs
Although a precise date is not confirmed, Matthew Boyd’s next start will be with the Chicago Cubs. After throwing a bullpen session at Citi Field on Monday, Boyd is looking forward to his next start following a rehab game at High-A South Bend. While initially slated to return after a meniscectomy in San Francisco, Boyd experienced left shoulder soreness on June 9 in Denver. This setback required him to undergo another rehab start before returning to the field.
Boyd is currently expected to pitch in the series finale against the New York Mets on Thursday. However, Manager Craig Counsell refrained from making a firm commitment due to potential schedule changes caused by rain. Monday’s game was eventually postponed and rescheduled as a doubleheader on Wednesday.
You always want to compete, you always want to be out there, but you also have to trust in the timing that is laid out in front of you,” Boyd stated. “When the opportunity to pitch arises, I’ll be ready to contribute to the team to the best of my ability.
Counsell emphasized the importance of Boyd’s full recovery, especially after shoulder soreness appeared following his June 6 rehab start. Boyd’s inclusion in the regular lineup depends on his ability to execute consistently in the coming games. Counsell noted that the Cubs must facilitate Boyd’s regular participation in the rotation to achieve this consistency.
The Cubs identified variations in Boyd’s mechanics, particularly his arm height, which may have contributed to his shoulder issues. Adjustments were made and Boyd believes these mechanical tweaks resolved his discomfort, leading to a speedy recovery.
Pete Crow-Armstrong Earns Player of the Week Honors
Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong earned the title of National League Player of the Week for a second time this month. He received this recognition following a series of impressive performances at the plate, marking his second career honor. The last Cubs player to achieve this feat was Derrek Lee in May 2005.
Crow-Armstrong achieved a .550 batting average (11-for-20) with four home runs, seven RBIs, one double, one triple, four walks, five runs scored, two stolen bases, a 1.300 slugging percentage, and a .600 on-base percentage across five games.
Reflecting on Crow-Armstrong’s recent at-bats, Manager Counsell highlighted his recovery in the eighth inning against Blue Jays’ pitcher Mason Fluharty. Crow-Armstrong managed to avoid chasing pitches outside the strike zone and ultimately contributed a single to load the bases.
Sometimes you have to make adjustments in an at-bat,” Counsell explained. “It’s about making strategic decisions and executing them successfully. Crow-Armstrong’s at-bat is a testament to that advanced level of hitting.
Cubs and All-Star Game Voting
The Cubs are facing challenges in garnering fan support for All-Star Game voting, partially due to their struggles over the last six weeks. The voting phase for All-Star Game starters will end on Thursday, aiming to reveal the top candidates at each position.
Current standings show third baseman Alex Bregman, catcher Carson Kelly, and designated hitter Moisés Ballesteros as the highest-ranked Cubs at seventh. Other notable players include first baseman Michael Busch and shortstop Dansby Swanson, both in eighth, and second baseman Nico Hoerner in tenth place.
Crow-Armstrong, who was voted an NL starter last year, ranks 14th among outfielders this season, while Seiya Suzuki places 16th. The All-Star Game rosters and starters will be announced on July 4 at 6:30 p.m.