While all eyes are on the start of the postseason, the Cubs’ game two starter is already drawing attention. Matthew Boyd took the mound in game one and struggled, allowing three earned runs on three hits, including two home runs with four Ks to one BB. Unless the Cubs make a comeback in game one, game two will be win or go home for Chicago. With that in mind, the Cubs’ game two starter will have to perform better than Boyd did.
Meet the Cubs Game Two Starter Candidates
The Front Runners
Looking at the Cubs rotation, all four remaining pitchers have cases to start. One of the most popular names is Clay Holmes. When he was acquired at the trade deadline, he was viewed as a likely playoff starter. When he first returned from the injury list, he showed this with a string of quality starts. However, his story has taken a different turn.
Advertisement
In his four starts in September, he has allowed 18 earned runs in 19 2/3 innings. He also has 15 walks to 15 strikeouts. The command has just not been there. It is hard to trust Holmes right now. However, if a righty is going to play, I think Holmes will be the Cubs’ game two starter. His talent is elite, and the Cubs gave up a lot to get him.
With that being said, Holmes’ struggles have been concerning. This has given the other starters a chance to step up. David Peterson may be the best example. He has been rock solid since joining Chicago. A few rough starts do not take away from his success. Recently, he has been pitching at an elite level. Peterson uses ground balls effectively, which, combined with the Cubs’ defense, is an elite combination. If the Cubs decide to go with a lefty again, then he is certainly in play. Over his last few starts, he has been one of the top pitchers on this team.
Other Options
The two remaining rotation members could be in play for the Cubs game two starter role, but each has their own struggles. Kevin Gausman has been a solid starter since the trade deadline. His veteran experience and ability to go six or seven innings make him a quality option. Unfortunately, he banged up his left shoulder in his last start. Gausman is still available to pitch in the series against the Padres, but he may not serve as a traditional starter.
Sep 23, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs pitcher Kevin Gausman (12) pitches against the Miami Marlins during the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images
Shota Imanaga has had an up-and-down season. Despite this, he was one of the team’s top pitchers. He finished the regular season on a good note and is strongly in consideration to start for the Cubs. The biggest issue is home runs, as he allows far too many. The other note is that he pitched on Sunday, although that was only 12 pitches. His schedule is a bit mixed up, so it is unclear how the Cubs wish to manage him.
Advertisement
The Last Word on the Cubs Game Two Starter
All four pitchers will appear this series. Looking at the Cubs’ game two starter, I could see Holmes getting the nod. Of all four, I think he has struggled the most recently. However, the Cubs may want to change up the look. Going with two left-handed starters is fine, but they may want to throw in a righty to force the Padres to adapt.
Holmes has proven to be an elite pitcher. When Chicago traded for him, it was clear they had their eyes on the World Series. They just gave up too much to get him to not give him a big-time start. While Holmes may serve as the Cubs’ game two starter, he will likely have a short leash. Any signs of major struggle, and Chicago may go to one of the other starters to eat innings. The postseason is when star players need to show up, so all the pressure will be on Holmes to prove he was worth the big swing.
Main Photo Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
More Baseball News:
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: Sports.yahoo.com
