Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Matthew Boyd. Jeff Curry-Imagn Images

Injury bug has taken over Cubs' starting rotation

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Apr 6, 2026 2:36 PM ET

In a year that many predicted the Chicago Cubs to be atop the National League Central standings, they have been bitten early and often by the injury bug.

It was announced before Monday's game against the Tampa Bay Rays that Cubs left-hander Matthew Boyd would be placed on the 15-day injured list. Boyd is dealing with a left bicep strain that will sideline him for at least the next two weeks.

Boyd joins fellow Chicago starter Cade Horton on the 15-day IL. Horton left Friday's start against the Cleveland Guardians in the second inning. He was placed on the 15-day IL on Sunday with what the club called a right forearm strain.

Less than 10 games into the season, and the Cubs are without their Nos. 1 and 2 starters in the 2026 rotation.

#Cubs fully expect this to be a minimum IL stint for Matthew Boyd. The issue has been in his recovery and they feel a little break will allow him to regain full health.
— Taylor McGregor (@Taylor_McGregor) April 6, 2026

Cubs' rotation depth will be tested early

With the injuries to Boyd and Horton, the Cubs will be turning to Colin Rea and Javier Assad to fill those voids in the rotation. Rea and Assad have both shown flashes of excellence during their time with the Cubs, something fans will certainly hope they can continue during the absence of two key pitchers.

Chicago is still awaiting the return of its former ace, left-hander Justin Steele. Steele has suffered injuries in each of the previous two seasons that have allowed him to make just 28 starts over those two years.

If Boyd, Horton and Rea all return to form after recovering from their injuries, the Cubs have a chance to boast one of the best starting rotations in all of baseball.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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