Matthew Boyd Out with Knee Injury

It’s quite surprising, almost a bit disheartening, but it’s true—Chicago Cubs pitcher Matthew Boyd won’t be able to be a present father for a while. The 35-year-old has reportedly torn his left meniscus while, of all things, sitting down to play with his kids. Cubs manager Craig Counsell announced before their game against the Cincinnati Reds that Boyd will need surgery for the injury.

“It’s a little inexplicable,” Counsell remarked, maintaining a calm demeanor.

The Cubs placed Boyd on the 15-day injured list on Wednesday, but there’s no clarity on when he might return.

Boyd last pitched on May 3 against the Arizona Diamondbacks, where he allowed four hits and two earned runs over six innings, contributing to a win for the Cubs. He was expected to start in a series against the Texas Rangers, but that plan is now sidelined.

As of Wednesday night, Counsell hadn’t settled on who might fill Boyd’s spot in the rotation. “I’m not even there yet,” he said when asked about Boyd’s replacement. He mentioned that there could be a plan but it’s still very much in the early stages.

Though Counsell’s mixed messages may come off as nonchalant, it’s tough to blame him, given the team’s ongoing struggle with injuries this season.

As it stands, Boyd is among ten pitchers currently on the Cubs’ injured reserve list, which includes names like Shelby Miller and Justin Steele. That’s a staggering number—ten pitchers on the IL.

Despite the situation, the Cubs are managing to string together wins. They’ve pulled off three consecutive walk-off victories against the Reds and have won eight games in a row overall, as well as 14 straight in spring training at Wrigley Field.