The Chicago Cubs continue their series against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Sunday, aiming to secure a sweep and extend their impressive home winning streak to 11 games. The Cubs have been in excellent form recently, winning 14 of their last 17 contests and holding a strong 13-5 record at home this season.
Saturday’s game saw Chicago clinch the series with a 2-0 victory, highlighted by Shota Imanaga’s dominant performance on the mound, pitching seven scoreless innings. Cubs manager Craig Counsell commended his team’s resilience and adaptability, especially given the injury challenges they have faced, noting that these qualities have strengthened the squad.
For Sunday’s matchup, left-hander Matthew Boyd (1-1, 7.00 ERA) will start for the Cubs. Boyd is looking to regain consistency after a disrupted season caused by a biceps strain. Although he showed promise early on, he has struggled to maintain form, failing to pitch beyond five innings in his last two outings.
Opposing him will be Arizona’s Merrill Kelly (1-2, 9.20 ERA), who is also recovering from injury. Kelly has encountered control problems recently, allowing 13 runs over his previous two starts and struggling with command.
Historically, Kelly holds an advantage in this matchup, boasting a 3-1 record and a 3.25 ERA against Chicago. Boyd, on the other hand, has yet to secure a win against the Diamondbacks, standing at 0-2 in his career versus Arizona.
With both pitchers aiming to find their rhythm, Sunday’s game could be decided by which starter settles in quicker. The Cubs are determined to maintain their home dominance and complete a commanding series sweep over the Diamondbacks.
