With the 2026 season just around the corner, the Chicago Cubs are emerging as a strong contender in the NL Central, thanks in large part to a rotation that appears mostly set though not without a few concerns.
Despite a modest Spring Training record, Chicago’s pitching staff has begun to take clear form. Beat writer Meghan Montemurro outlined how the rotation is expected to open the season: Matthew Boyd will start on Opening Day, followed by Cade Horton and Shota Imanaga against the Washington Nationals. Edward Cabrera and Jameson Taillon are then expected to handle the next series versus the Los Angeles Angels.
Boyd getting the Opening Day nod highlights the team’s confidence in him, while Horton—one of last season’s standout rookies has continued to impress. He wrapped up spring with strong strikeout numbers, showcasing the kind of swing-and-miss ability that could make him a breakout star this year. Along with Imanaga, the top of the rotation looks like a real strength.
However, not everything is settled. The biggest question mark surrounds Taillon, whose spring performance has been extremely concerning. Once expected to slot comfortably near the top of the rotation, he now finds himself at the back end after a rough stretch in camp. Over limited innings, he posted an unusually high ERA, gave up a significant number of hits and home runs, and struggled to keep hitters off base.
That’s a stark contrast from how he ended the 2025 season, when he looked dominant down the stretch and gave the Cubs reason to believe he’d be a key contributor in 2026. Now, his role and effectiveness remains uncertain.
Overall, Chicago’s rotation combines upside and depth, but its success could hinge on whether Taillon can rediscover his form. If he does, the Cubs will have one of the more complete pitching staffs in the league as they aim to contend for a division title and beyond.
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