The Chicago Cubs host the Miami Marlins at Wrigley Field on Thursday, September 24, with first pitch scheduled for 2:20 PM ET. Matthew Boyd gets the ball for Chicago against Miami's Tyler Phillips in a regular-season afternoon affair on the North Side. With the calendar flipping toward the final days of September, every game carries weight in the standings, and the Cubs will be looking to take care of business in front of their home crowd.
Cubs vs. Marlins Pitching Matchup: Boyd Against Phillips
Matthew Boyd draws the start for the Cubs. A left-handed veteran who has bounced between rotation spots and bullpen roles across his career, Boyd brings experience to a September start that matters. The Cubs will need him to eat innings, work efficiently, and keep Miami's lineup off the bases.
Opposing him is Tyler Phillips for the Marlins. Phillips is a right-handed pitcher who has made appearances for Miami this season. Without specific current ERA or win-loss numbers confirmed for either starter, the focus shifts to execution on the day — command, pitch selection, and the ability to navigate a lineup without major damage.
Keys to Watch in Thursday's Game
- Boyd's command early: Getting through the first few innings without a crooked number will set the tone. If Boyd establishes his breaking ball and keeps the Marlins guessing, the Cubs offense should have enough opportunities to provide run support.
- Capitalizing at the plate: The Cubs need to make Phillips work deep into counts and force the Marlins bullpen into action. Scoring in the middle innings, not just relying on one big inning, will be the key to a comfortable win.
- Bullpen readiness: September rosters are expanded, and the Cubs have options if Boyd hits a wall. Managing the bullpen wisely in a daytime game at Wrigley — where wind and heat can be unpredictable factors — will matter.
- Defensive execution: Late-season games can get sloppy. Clean defense behind Boyd early will keep pitch counts manageable and the Cubs in front.
Where to Watch Cubs vs. Marlins
Thursday's game is available on Marquee Sports Network for television and on 104.3 The Score on FM radio for Cubs fans throughout the Chicago area.
Prediction: Cubs Win at Home
The Cubs are at Wrigley Field, playing a September afternoon game in front of what should be an energized crowd. Miami is a team that has faced significant roster and organizational challenges this season. Boyd is a capable arm when on, and the Cubs have enough lineup depth to generate runs against Phillips. Look for Chicago to control this one at home and pick up a win that keeps the energy on the North Side heading into the final stretch of the regular season. Cubs 5, Marlins 2.
