Matthew Boyd joins Cubs on 2-year, $29M contract for 2024.
The Chicago Cubs have made a significant addition to their pitching rotation, agreeing to a two-year, $29 million contract with veteran left-hander Matthew Boyd. According to sources, the deal, first reported by the New York Post, includes a $5 million signing bonus, annual salaries of $7.5 million in 2025 and $14.5 million in 2026.
He also has a mutual option for 2027 valued at $15 million with a $2 million buyout. Boyd could earn an additional $1 million in performance bonuses based on innings pitched.
After recovering from Tommy John surgery, Boyd signed with the Cleveland Guardians midseason in 2023. He quickly proved his worth, going 2-2 with a 2.72 ERA across eight starts. His postseason performance was equally impressive, allowing just one run while striking out 14 batters over 11 2/3 innings in three starts.
Boyd’s season debut came against his future team, the Cubs, on August 13, where he pitched 5 1/3 innings of one-run ball.
Boyd’s ability to bounce back from injuries and deliver consistent results has made him a valuable asset. His slider continues to generate a high whiff rate, and opponents struggled against his four-seam fastball, batting just .150 last season.
His overall ERA of 1.85, factoring in his minor league appearances, underscores his sharpness throughout the year.
The Cubs are looking to bolster their rotation after finishing second in the NL Central for two consecutive seasons. Boyd joins a solid lineup of left-handed talent, including Justin Steele, Shota Imanaga, and Jameson Taillon.
This strategic move aligns with the Cubs’ focus on utilizing Wrigley Field’s lefty-friendly conditions. A study by North Side Baseball highlighted how left-handed pitchers have thrived at Wrigley, benefiting from unique visual and atmospheric factors.
Boyd’s deal signals Chicago’s trust in mid-tier acquisitions to strengthen their roster while managing financial constraints. With Cody Bellinger’s $27.5 million player option impacting payroll flexibility, Boyd’s signing represents a calculated investment to maintain competitiveness without breaking the bank.
At 33, Boyd brings experience and resilience to a Cubs rotation that balances proven starters with young talent waiting in the wings. His comeback story, combined with his recent postseason success, adds depth and reliability to Chicago’s pitching staff as they aim to challenge for the NL Central crown in 2024.
Read More: Reports: Mets sign RHP Frankie Montas to two-year, $34 million deal
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