Matthew Boyd injury update: Cubs pitcher will have knee surgery

The Chicago Cubs rotation just took another hit.  

Manager Craig Counsell announced Wednesday that left hander Matthew Boyd will undergo surgery for a left meniscus injury, with no timetable to return. The news is another blow to a Chicago starting staff that has been devastated by injuries since opening day.  

Boyd, 35, had already missed time this season with a left biceps strain that landed him on the 15-day injured list from April 6-22. He returned to make several starts and appeared to be rounding into form Sunday against Arizona, when he turned in his first quality start of the season. He allowed two runs over six innings to lower his ERA to 6.00.  

ESPN reported that Boyd suffered the injury while playing with his children.  

This is a blow to a staff that has been hit hard. Cade Horton, who was expected to be a key part of the rotation, is already done for the year after an MRI revealed UCL damage in his right elbow. Justin Steele, Chicago’s opening day starter in 2024, is still recovering from Tommy John surgery and isn't expected back until later this month or early June. With Boyd now headed to the operating table, the Cubs are running dangerously low on starting pitching.  

Edward Cabrera and Shota Imanaga figure to anchor the rotation with Jameson Taillon still struggling. Javier Assad and Colin Rea, both of whom filled in during Boyd’s biceps absence, figure to see increased workloads again.  

Boyd signed a two-year, $29.5 million contract with Chicago before the 2025 season. He rewarded the Cubs with a career year earning his first All-Star selection. He was 14-8 with a 3.21 ERA and a team-leading 179 2/3 innings pitched. He has a $15 million mutual option for 2017.  

Matthew Boyd injury update

Boyd has an extensive injury history.  

He has dealt with a flexor tendon strain, Tommy John surgery, a biceps issue this year and now the meniscus injury that requires surgery. Despite that, he remained one of the more reliable starters just a year ago.  

The Cubs entered play Wednesday at 20-14 and in first place in the National league Central.