In an effort to bolster their starting rotation, the Cleveland Guardians have reportedly reached an agreement with free agent left-hander Matthew Boyd. This move comes at a time when the Guardians are looking to solidify their pitching staff and maintain their lead in the AL Central division.
Boyd’s Injury Concerns
One of the main concerns with this deal is Boyd’s injury history, particularly his reconstructive elbow surgery last year. This raises questions about his durability and ability to stay healthy for a full season. While Boyd has shown promise in the past, his recent injury struggles could be a cause for concern for the Guardians.
Despite their solid performance thus far, the Guardians have had some inconsistencies in their pitching staff. While some unexpected players like Ben Lively have stepped up, others like Triston McKenzie and Carlos Carrasco have faced challenges. The addition of Boyd could provide much-needed depth and stability to the rotation.
Boyd, who spent eight seasons with the Detroit Tigers, has had a mixed track record in recent years. His 5.45 ERA in 15 starts last season before his surgery is less than ideal, but reports of his recent strong fastball showcase his potential. With a career-high of 185 1/3 innings in 2019, Boyd has proven he has the ability to be a workhorse when healthy.
For first-year manager Stephen Vogt, Boyd’s addition could provide valuable support and depth to the pitching staff. Vogt will need to utilize Boyd effectively to maximize his impact on the team and ensure his health and performance are managed properly throughout the season.
While the Cleveland Guardians’ acquisition of Matthew Boyd brings potential benefits in terms of pitching depth and experience, there are valid concerns surrounding Boyd’s injury history and recent performance. It will be crucial for the Guardians to monitor Boyd’s health closely and manage his workload effectively to get the most out of this new addition to their roster.