Cubs Update: Boyd’s Anticipated Return, Crow-Armstrong’s Recognition, and All-Star Voting Status

Matthew Boyd’s Upcoming Start

Matthew Boyd’s next pitching start will be for the Chicago Cubs. He recently threw a bullpen session at Citi Field. Despite not having a fixed date, Boyd’s return is likely soon. He felt good after his recent rehab start at High-A South Bend.

Boyd encountered a delay in his comeback timeline due to left shoulder soreness during a bullpen session on June 9. This setback required him to make another rehab start. The Cubs are considering Boyd for Thursday’s game against the New York Mets. However, manager Craig Counsell is cautious due to potential weather-related schedule changes.

Boyd stated, “You always want to compete… but you also have to trust in the timing laid out in front of you.” The Cubs want to ensure Boyd is fully recovered following shoulder issues after his June 6 rehab at Triple-A Iowa.

Injuries and Adjustments

Boyd has pitched only five games, accounting for 24 innings this season, due to previous injuries. Counsell emphasized the importance of Boyd pitching consistently. Boyd has faced multiple injuries, including surgery and a biceps strain from early April.

The Cubs analyzed Boyd’s delivery and found discrepancies in his arm position. Adjustments were made to his mechanics, which helped alleviate soreness. Boyd expressed relief with the adjustments saying they had corrected the issue.

Pete Crow-Armstrong Receives Recognition

Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong was again named National League player of the week. His recent performance included a .550 batting average over five games. He stood out with four home runs and seven RBIs.

This marked Crow-Armstrong’s second award for the month. He became the first Cub since Derrek Lee in 2005 to win multiple monthly awards. Manager Craig Counsell praised his hitting, especially an at-bat against Blue Jays reliever Mason Fluharty.

All-Star Voting Challenges

The Cubs face difficulties in All-Star Game voting due to recent performance struggles. MLB’s latest tallies showed limited support for Cubs players.

Key Cubs in the rankings include third baseman Alex Bregman and catcher Carson Kelly, both in seventh place. Michael Busch and Dansby Swanson also appear in the top ten for their positions.

Pete Crow-Armstrong, an All-Star starter last year, is currently 14th among outfielders. Seiya Suzuki is 16th, reflecting the team’s challenges in gaining fan votes.