Matthew Boyd starts for Cubs in wild-card Game 1 against Padres

The Chicago Cubs have named left-hander Matthew Boyd their starter for Game 1 of the wild-card series against the San Diego Padres on Tuesday at Petco Park. Boyd previously started against the Padres in last year's postseason and enters the game after a strong finish to the season, posting a 3.42 ERA in his last 17 starts. Cubs manager Craig Counsell expressed confidence in Boyd's experience for the playoffs, while discussions regarding other pitchers remain ongoing, with right-hander Kevin Gausman’s status uncertain due to a recent shoulder injury. The best-of-three series format allows the Cubs to utilize all available pitchers strategically, focusing on a goal to secure two wins within three games.

• 3:27 AMYahoo Sports — Matthew Boyd named Cubs’ Game 1 starter to set up wild-card rematch against Padres