Matthew Boyd started for Chicago in Game 1 and saw a rough two-inning stretch as Milwaukee piled up nine runs early. His performance shapes Chicago’s decision-making for Game 2 and the required adjustments to slow Milwaukee’s jump-start.

<p>Boyd’s start faced a rough patch early as Milwaukee flexed its home-field advantage with an energized crowd and a quick offensive onslaught.</p><p>The Cubs’ left-hander absorbed the pressure early, highlighting the challenge of facing a loud Milwaukee environment in Game 1 of the NLDS.</p>

Boyd started for Chicago on short rest and was pulled after the first with four runs allowed, setting the tone for a Cubs comeback attempt that fell short.

Boyd’s short, rough outing in Game 1 triggered a quick hook and left a cloud over his next start with Cubs. His performance emphasized the risk of short rest in playoff pitching. Fantasy managers should monitor his next assignment and rest cadence, as his effectiveness could swing the Cubs’ chances in a tight series.

Boyd, on three days' rest, was pulled after 30 pitches as the Brewers struck early. He allowed six runs (two earned) on four hits and a walk, with just 43% of his pitches in the strike zone and a high Brewers swing rate. The showing raised questions about the viability of short-rest playoff starts for him.