The Chicago Cubs are shaping their playoff rotation around Kevin Gausman, Clay Holmes, and Matthew Boyd as they prepare for a best-of-three Wild Card series. The team’s pitching staff has struggled with consistency throughout the season, but these three starters have emerged as the most reliable options for October.
Clay Holmes, acquired in a major trade at the deadline, has made a strong case to be part of the rotation despite a recent rough patch. Before allowing 16 earned runs in his last three starts, Holmes was nearly untouchable, giving up just one run over four appearances. His 4.26 ERA may not impress on paper, but his ability to generate ground balls complements the Cubs’ defense well. Chicago could limit his innings over the final week of the regular season to keep him fresh for a postseason start.
Kevin Gausman, another significant trade deadline addition, brings the most postseason experience to the staff. Since joining the Cubs, he has pitched 44 2/3 innings with a 5.04 ERA and a 4-2 record. While his ERA is elevated by a few tough outings, Gausman’s ability to provide length is important for a bullpen that has shown vulnerability. There remains some uncertainty about whether he will start in the Wild Card round, but his experience makes him a strong candidate.
The third spot in the rotation is less clear, with Matthew Boyd currently the leading contender. Boyd has been a steady presence when healthy, posting a 9-5 record with a 4.06 ERA. His familiarity with Wrigley Field could be an advantage if the Cubs secure the top Wild Card spot. Depending on the opponent and the outcome of the first two games, Boyd might start either the first or second game of the series.
Other pitchers like Shota Imanaga and David Peterson remain on the fringe of the rotation. Imanaga has struggled with home runs but appears to have found some stability, while Peterson has put together a string of good starts. Both present question marks compared to the trio of Holmes, Gausman, and Boyd.
The Cubs’ playoff rotation decisions could still shift over the final week of the season, especially after their September 23 start against the Miami Marlins. The team’s manager will likely weigh recent form and matchup considerations before finalising the lineup. For now, Holmes, Gausman, and Boyd have separated themselves enough to be the frontrunners for starting duties in the Wild Card series.
The Cubs’ pitching has been their biggest question mark heading into October, and how these starters perform could determine whether they advance beyond the Wild Card round.
According to Yahoo Sports.