Cubs Clinch Postseason Berth as Boyd’s Struggles Raise Questions and Cade Horton Shines
The Chicago Cubs are celebrating a significant milestone in their season. With a decisive 8-4 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday, they have officially secured their place in the postseason. This marks their return to October baseball for the first time since the 2020 season, and the jubilant fanbase is reveling in the long-awaited success.
Concerns in the Starting Rotation
While the Cubs have enjoyed a fruitful season, there are rising concerns regarding the team’s starting rotation. A veteran pitcher, once seen as a potential playoff asset, has struggled to find consistency as the season nears its conclusion. Matthew Boyd, a name many anticipated would complement Shota Imanaga in the playoffs, has faced difficulties in recent outings.
In his latest performance against the Pirates, Boyd’s struggles were evident. He has allowed 32 earned runs over the last 53.2 innings, resulting in a troubling 5.37 ERA. Kenneth Teape from Sports Illustrated highlighted how the situation has worsened, noting that Boyd’s challenges extended into the second inning of Wednesday’s game, where he surrendered another earned run.
Teape pointed to Boyd’s heavy workload as a possible factor in his decline. With 171.1 innings pitched this season, this is the most he has thrown in a single campaign since 2019, when he logged 185.1 innings with the Detroit Tigers—a career high. The increased pitching demands may be taking a toll on the veteran’s performance.
Cade Horton Shines Amidst Concerns
Fortunately for the Cubs, there has been a silver lining in the form of Cade Horton. The young pitcher has emerged as a bright spot in the rotation, showing dominance on the mound and providing a sense of reassurance as the team gears up for the playoffs. Horton’s performances have not only showcased his talent but have also offered a glimmer of hope amidst Boyd’s recent downturn.
As the Cubs prepare for their postseason run, the balance of their starting rotation will be a critical factor. While Boyd’s inconsistency raises valid concerns, the emergence of Horton could provide the depth needed to make a significant playoff push. The Cubs are embracing the challenges ahead, but the health and performance of their pitching staff will be pivotal in determining how far they can go in October.
