{
  "id": 9463907,
  "title": "How the Cubs Playoff Rotation is Shaping Up",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/24/how-the-cubs-playoff-rotation-is-shaping-up",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-24T01:55:18.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/cubs-playoff-rotation-shaping-015518289.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Chicago Cubs' playoff rotation is taking shape as the MLB postseason race unfolds. After a rough season with their pitching staff, the Cubs need to determine which three starters will make it to the postseason. Among the candidates are Clay Holmes, Kevin Gausman, and Matthew Boyd.\n\nClay Holmes, who was acquired in a massive trade, has been a key player for the Cubs' run in October. Despite a 4.26 ERA, his strong performance before struggles and ability to force ground balls make him a valuable asset. Matthew Boyd, with a 4.06 ERA and 9-5 record, is another reliable option and could be in the rotation for the first round.\n\nKevin Gausman, one of the team's most experienced pitchers, has a 5.04 ERA but has shown the ability to go deep into games. His experience and durability make him a likely starter for the Cubs. The third spot in the playoff rotation is uncertain, but if the Cubs advance, Matthew Boyd is likely to be the starter. Other options like Shota Imanaga and David Peterson could also make an appearance, but all pitchers have some uncertainties. The final decision on the Cubs playoff rotation will depend on their performance and their opponent.",
  "summary": "With the MLB postseason race shaping up, the Chicago Cubs' playoff rotation is becoming clearer. They have occasionally had a rough time with their pitching staff this season, and it has been hard to know who they can trust. However, they are heading for a best-of-three series in the Wild Card round. This means that …",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}