Cubs prepare for pivotal series against Rays as Boyd seeks to regain form
The Chicago Cubs are set to host the Tampa Bay Rays for a crucial three-game series at Wrigley Field, marking a significant moment in their pursuit of a playoff berth. With the first game scheduled for Friday afternoon, the Cubs (83-63) are on the verge of clinching their first postseason appearance since 2020, with aspirations of hosting a National League wild card series.
Cubs’ playoff aspirations
After an off day, the Cubs return to their home turf, eager to solidify their playoff positioning. The excitement is palpable as they inch closer to the postseason. Their current focus is on regaining the health of key players such as outfielder Kyle Tucker and pitcher Michael Soroka, both of whom are crucial to their success down the stretch.
Meanwhile, the Rays find themselves in a different scenario. Struggling at two games under .500, their chances of making the American League wild card race are slim. Instead, they will look to play spoiler against a Cubs team that is gaining momentum.
Game Day details
Fans can catch the action on Friday, September 12, with the first pitch scheduled for 1:20 p.m. CT. The game will be broadcast on the Marquee Sports Network for Cubs supporters, while Rays fans can tune in via the FanDuel Sports Network. For those outside the local markets, the MLB Network will provide coverage.
Probable pitchers
Cubs: Matthew Boyd (12-8, 2.92 ERA)
Matthew Boyd takes the mound for the Cubs, coming off a solid performance against the Washington Nationals despite suffering a loss. Over seven innings, he allowed two earned runs and struck out three batters while not issuing any walks. Boyd’s recent stretch has been challenging, with a 1-4 record and a 4.22 ERA in his last seven starts, totaling 42.2 innings pitched. However, he has shown potential, and with the postseason looming, he aims to regain the dominant form he exhibited earlier in the season.
Rays: Shane Baz (9-11, 4.94 ERA)
On the other side, Shane Baz will take the mound for the Rays, marking his best professional season to date. He has consistently taken his turn in the rotation, amassing 164 strikeouts against 57 walks in 155 innings pitched. However, Baz has faced difficulties recently, holding a 1-4 record and a 6.00 ERA in his last seven starts. In his latest outing against the Cleveland Guardians, he pitched five innings, allowing two earned runs while striking out eight and walking one.
Injury updates
The Cubs are managing several injuries as they head into this critical series:
Kyle Tucker, OF (10-day IL, left calf tightness, retroactive to Sept. 6): Tucker is still battling soreness in his calf after running sessions and is eligible to return on Sept. 17.
Miguel Amaya, C (10-day IL, left ankle sprain): Amaya’s potential return hinges on his ability to progress to rehab games at Triple-A.
Daniel Palencia, RHP (15-day IL, right shoulder strain): Chicago is hopeful Palencia can resume throwing this weekend.
Michael Soroka, RHP (15-day IL, right shoulder discomfort): Soroka recently made a rehab start at Triple-A Iowa.
Ryan Brasier, RHP (15-day IL, left groin strain): There have been no recent updates on Brasier’s recovery since he threw a bullpen session in Atlanta.
Additionally, the Cubs are managing two longer-term injuries:
Eli Morgan, RHP (60-day IL, right elbow): Morgan is currently on a rehab assignment at Triple-A Iowa.
Justin Steele, LHP (60-day IL, left elbow surgery): Steele is out for the season following his surgery.
As the Cubs look to solidify their playoff hopes, this series against the Rays could prove pivotal. With Boyd on the mound, Chicago is hoping to harness their momentum and navigate towards a successful postseason run.
