Who Should Be the Cubs Game Two Starter?

As the Chicago Cubs head into the postseason, the start of Game Two has already drawn considerable attention. In Game One, Matthew Boyd struggled, allowing three earned runs on three hits, including two home runs. With the stakes high, the Cubs' game two starter will need to step up and perform better than Boyd did.

The Cubs' rotation features four remaining pitchers, all of whom have potential to start. Among the frontrunners is Clay Holmes. When acquired at the trade deadline, he was seen as a likely playoff starter. Although his recent form has been concerning, with 18 earned runs in 19 2/3 innings over four starts in September, Holmes remains the most talented option. His command has been an issue, but his elite talent makes him a strong candidate for the game two starter role.

David Peterson is another strong candidate for the role. Since joining the Cubs, he has been consistently solid, using ground balls effectively to complement the team's defense. Over his last few starts, he has been one of the team's top pitchers, with a 1.27 ERA. If the Cubs choose to go with a lefty again, Peterson is certainly in play.

The other two rotation members, Kevin Gausman and Shota Imanaga, also have their own struggles. Gausman has been a solid starter since the trade deadline but injured his left shoulder in his last start. Imanaga, while having a strong regular season, has allowed too many home runs and has a mixed schedule due to his recent pitching.

Ultimately, while all four pitchers will appear in the series, Holmes might have the nod as the game two starter. The Cubs need to demonstrate that he was worth the trade, and he will be under pressure to perform well in the postseason.