Chicago Cubs name Matthew Boyd Game 1 starter vs. Padres

The Chicago Cubs have accomplished their initial mission of making the playoffs, earning the No. 5 seed. Now, the franchise is looking to go on an unforgettable run.

Their first order of business will be taking on the San Diego Padres in the Wild Card Series. Chicago held a 5-1 advantage over San Diego in their season series. But the Padres earned the No. 4 seed with their 91-71 record; two games better than the Cubs.

It’ll be an entire different ballgame come postseason. But Chicago is entering battle with the same pros and cons. Their offense led the league with 850 runs scored and will continue to be their driving force. On the flip side though, Chicago’s team 4.12 ERA ranked 14th overall. Their pitching staff will continue to be questioned unless they take a step forward as a unit.

The Cubs have now picked their Game 1 starter. Chicago will hope for an inspired outing that permeates throughout the entire staff.

Chicago Cubs’ Matthew Boyd draws Game 1 start

Chicago Cubs, Cubs News, Matthew Boyd — Aug 15, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Matthew Boyd (16) delivers a pitch against the St. Louis Cardinals during the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

Manager Craig Counsell confirmed that Matthew Boyd will be on the bump in Game 1, via John Fanta of NBC Sports. His final start of the regular season saw the left-hander pitch seven innings of one-run baseball in a win against the Miami Marlins.

NEWS: Craig Counsell announces Matthew Boyd will start Game 1 for the Cubs against the Padres. pic.twitter.com/VHE1SXDMFc

— John Fanta (@John_Fanta) September 28, 2026

Kevin Gausman could’ve been a Game 1 option, as Boyd is operating under four-days rest. But the right-hander is working his way back from a shoulder injury. He did throw a successful bullpen session on Sunday, putting Gausman on track to start Game 2. Alongside the righty, names like Clay Holmes, David Peterson and Shota Imanaga will be asked to step up.

But to begin their series against the Padres, the Cubs are putting their eggs in Boyd’s basket. Over his 22 starts in 2026, the former All-Star holds a 3.91 ERA and a 96/39 K/BB ratio. Counsell is at least confident Boyd can set the tone.

The Cubs are entering the playoffs with high expectations. While Game 1 won’t determine everything, a win would at least show how serious the Cubs are about competing for the World Series crown.

The post Chicago Cubs name Matthew Boyd Game 1 starter vs. Padres appeared first on ChiCitySports.