{"id":123350,"date":"2026-06-04T00:28:32","date_gmt":"2026-06-04T04:28:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/?p=123350"},"modified":"2026-06-04T00:28:32","modified_gmt":"2026-06-04T04:28:32","slug":"cubs-returning-starters-boyd-cabrera","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/2026\/06\/04\/cubs-returning-starters-boyd-cabrera\/","title":{"rendered":"How Two Returning Starters Could Strengthen the Cubs Rotation"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Chicago Cubs have managed to remain competitive despite dealing with injuries. However, the Cubs’ returning starters, Matthew Boyd<\/a> and Edward Cabrera<\/a>, will help solve that issue. The starting rotation has struggled<\/a> to live up to its promise, mainly due to injuries and inconsistencies. This has linked Chicago to potential trades for starters<\/a>, but if these veterans could return at a strong level, then they may be able to keep some of their top prospects.<\/p>\n

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The Cubs’ Returning Starters<\/h2>\n

Boyd and Cabrera have dealt with injuries for most of the season. Even before they got injured, they had struggled in a majority of their starts. This has become a common theme, as, besides Ben Brown<\/a>, who is having a breakout season<\/a>, there really haven’t been any bright spots. While there is no guarantee, some time off may have helped give a mental reset. Even if it takes some time to shake off the rust, they are much-needed returns.<\/p>\n

Matthew Boyd<\/h3>\n

Boyd last made a start on May 3rd, where he went six innings, allowing four hits and two runs. Before his injury, he had a 6.00 ERA in 24 innings. Boyd also accumulated 31 strikeouts and had a 2-1 record. These numbers are certainly down from what fans hoped, but he also proved last year that he can serve as the top starter on the team. Reaching that level may be unlikely, but if he can provide quality play, then it goes a long way in stabilizing the rotation. He will likely make only one more start in the minors, and very well could be back on the major league roster next week.<\/p>\n

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Cubs and Matthew Boyd will decide if he throws in Triple A or Midwest league for final rehab tuneup Saturday.<\/p>\n

\u2014 Bruce Levine (@MLBBruceLevine) June 3, 2026<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n