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Cubs Lose Boyd, Add Thornton Amid 7-Game Streak

5/7/2026

Summary

Boyd Surgery

Matthew Boyd will have left meniscus surgery and be placed on the IL on May 6, 2026.
He tore the meniscus while playing with his children, manager Craig Counsell said.
The Cubs called up Trent Thornton, claimed Luis Peralta off waivers, and keep Steele, Horton and Wicks on the IL.
Despite absences, Chicago has won 17 of its last 20 games and started a seven-game winning streak before the Reds.

Summary

Boyd Signed

The Cubs signed right-hander Matthew Boyd to a two-year, $29 million contract that guarantees his salary through 2026 despite his injury.
Boyd, selected for Team USA’s World Baseball Classic roster, now faces meniscus surgery with recovery ranging from weeks to months, leaving his return date uncertain.
Chicago’s 24-12 record keeps the Cubs three games ahead of the St. Louis Cardinals in the NL Central, increasing pressure after Boyd’s April 22 activation and quick sidelining.

Summary

Boyd Injury

Charlie Barnes was designated for assignment to clear a roster spot for Trent Thornton.
The Cubs had slated Boyd to start the series opener against the Texas Rangers in Arlington on Friday before his injury.
Manager Craig Counsell said the injury was “innocent—just going down onto the ground and getting back up.”
Internal replacements are Triple-A southpaw Doug Nikhazy (on the 40-man roster) and right-handers Tyler Beede and Kyle Wright.

History

Historical Context

1966 MLB introduced a 15-day disabled list, cutting the required stay from 30 days and letting teams free a roster spot while injured players healed. Renamed the injured list before the 2019 season, the rule still shapes moves such as the Chicago Cubs placing pitcher Matthew Boyd on the IL in 2024 as they chase the NL Central lead.

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Boyd Surgery

Matthew Boyd will have left meniscus surgery and be placed on the IL on May 6, 2026.
He tore the meniscus while playing with his children, manager Craig Counsell said.
The Cubs called up Trent Thornton, claimed Luis Peralta off waivers, and keep Steele, Horton and Wicks on the IL.
Despite absences, Chicago has won 17 of its last 20 games and started a seven-game winning streak before the Reds.

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