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**Summary:**

Despite a long road of injury setbacks culminating in Tommy John surgery, Chicago Cubs pitcher Matthew Boyd has returned to form and is exceeding expectations. In a recent game against his former team, the Cleveland Guardians, he pitched seven strong innings, allowing only two earned runs in a 5-2 Cubs victory. Boyd’s impressive performance this season, marked by consistency and low earned runs, has been pivotal for the Cubs, especially with other starters sidelined. His ERA is now 2.65 and his record is 8-3. While the Cubs’ offense provided early support with a three-run second inning, they also made some costly base running errors. Seiya Suzuki continued his power surge with his 23rd home run. The bullpen secured the win with strong performances from Brad Keller and Daniel Palencia.

**News Article:**

**Boyd Shines as Cubs Defeat Guardians, 5-2**

*Chicago, IL* – Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Matthew Boyd delivered another stellar performance Tuesday night at Wrigley Field, leading the Cubs to a 5-2 victory over the Cleveland Guardians, his former team. Boyd, who battled through a series of arm injuries, including Tommy John surgery in 2023, pitched seven strong innings, allowing only two earned runs.

“I knew my best was still ahead of me,” said Boyd, reflecting on his long road to recovery. He signed a two-year, $29 million contract with the Cubs this past December.

The Cubs’ offense provided early support in the second inning, with Michael Busch driving in a run and Carson Kelly adding two more with a double. However, the inning was marred by base running blunders, including two pickoffs and a runner tagged out at home.

Seiya Suzuki blasted his team-leading 23rd home run in the sixth inning, providing an insurance run. Kelly added another RBI with a sacrifice fly in the eighth.

Cubs manager Craig Counsell praised Boyd’s efficient performance, noting, “It was excellent again… just more of what we’ve seen from Matt really the whole season.”

With the Cubs rotation facing injuries earlier in the season, Boyd’s consistent performance has proven invaluable. He now boasts an 8-3 record and a 2.65 ERA. Cubs President Jed Hoyer admitted that Boyd has “certainly exceeded expectations.”

Relievers Brad Keller and Daniel Palencia closed out the game, with Palencia earning his ninth save.

While the Cubs secured the win, Counsell acknowledged the team’s struggles on the base paths. “We had a rough inning on the bases.”

The Cubs look to continue their winning streak in the next game of the series.

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