Cubs Decline Mutual Options for Boyd and Kelly
The Chicago Cubs have parted ways with pitcher Matthew Boyd and catcher Carson Kelly as both become free agents.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Baseball
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The Chicago Cubs and players Matthew Boyd and Carson Kelly have declined their respective mutual options. As a result, the left-handed pitcher and catcher have entered free agency.
Why it matters
Declining these options allows both players to explore new opportunities across the league while also giving the Chicago Cubs flexibility in their current roster composition. The team and players may still discuss potential re-signing arrangements.
The declined mutual option for Matthew Boyd was valued at $15 million with a $2 million buyout, while the option for Carson Kelly was worth $7.5 million with a $1.5 million buyout.
The players
Matthew Boyd
He is a professional left-handed pitcher who was a member of the Chicago Cubs.
Carson Kelly
He is a professional catcher who served on the roster for the Chicago Cubs.
Chicago Cubs
This is a professional Major League Baseball team based in Chicago that competes in the National League Central division.
The details
The MLBPA officially announced the transition for both players on October 30, 2026. This administrative change formally ends their tenure with the Chicago club for the current cycle.
Timeline
October 30, 2026: The MLBPA announced that Matthew Boyd and Carson Kelly are now free agents.
Early next week: Players will begin to have the freedom to sign with other teams.
Season Trajectory
This roster move aligns with the standard off-season transition period defined by the MLB Collective Bargaining Agreement mutual option provisions. These departures signal a significant shift in the team's depth chart as the organization evaluates its needs for the upcoming season.
The exit of these two players creates immediate openings on the active roster that the Chicago Cubs must address through free agency or trades. Fantasy managers and fans should adjust expectations for the team's starting pitching rotation and catching depth as the lineup changes.
The takeaway
Players entering free agency are now able to evaluate offers from any team in the league. Teams often utilize this period to reallocate salary cap space based on performance and future roster requirements.
What happens next
Free agents are scheduled to begin the period where they can officially sign with new teams starting early next week.
Further reading
For more on the latest roster changes, visit the Chicago Baseball section.
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