Cubs vs Nationals: Opening Day Showdown

0:00From Washington Nationals coverage, this is your March 20th update. The Chicago Cubs opened their 2026 season with Big World Series hopes hosting the Washington Nationals on March 26th at 120 p.m. Central Time in Rigglyfield. After falling in the National League Division series last year, the Cubs hand the ball to veteran left-hander Matthew Boyd for his third career. Opening Day Start Boyd had a breakout 2025 campaign, going 14-8 with a 3.21 earned run average over 31 starts. The 35-year-old earned his first All-Star nod and dominated at home, winning 12 of 15 decisions with a 2.51 mark rate. There in the friendly confines, meanwhile, the Nationals enter a rebuilding phase under new manager Blake Boutera, countering with right-hander Cade Cavalli in his first opening day. The 27-year-old first-round pick from 2020 showed promise before injuries sidelined him.

1:00Cavalli dealt with shoulder inflammation in 2022 and Tommy John's surgery the next spring, missing most of the next two years. He fought back strong in 2025, posting three wins and one loss with a 4.25 earned run average in 10 outings, earning, praise for his grit in the clubhouse. Fans can expect plenty of energy or rigley, where the Nationals last opened a season back in 2012. This match-up sets the tone for both teams, chasing their goals as the long season unfolds.