Matthew Boyd of the Chicago Cubs vs. Max Fried of the New York Yankees: Top MLB Pitching Duels

The New York Yankees Send Max Fried to the Hill vs. the Chicago Cubs’ Matthew Boyd

Saturday’s game at Wrigley Field between the Yankees and Cubs carries more than just big-market buzz—it features two high-end arms who opted out of pitching in the upcoming All-Star Game. Fried, one of the most consistent pitchers in MLB this season, squares off with Boyd, the surprise All-Star for the Cubs, who’s also skipping Tuesday’s festivities.

Fried enters the contest with a sub-2.50 ERA and a WHIP below 1.00, staking his claim as one of the top left-handed starters in the league. The Yankees need every ounce of that dominance as they try to secure momentum heading into the break, especially with pitching depth taking hits due to innings limits and injuries.

Boyd, meanwhile, has been Chicago’s quiet hero—posting a solid 3.12 ERA and holding opponents to a .219 average. Though he won’t pitch in the Midsummer Classic, he’ll get one final opportunity to show why he deserved the nod.

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Rotation Fatigue Looms Large for Yankees

The Yankees’ rotation is officially showing signs of wear. After pushing rookies like Clayton Beeter and Cam Schlittler (whose name, let’s be honest, is a broadcaster’s landmine), the Bronx Bombers are reaching the All-Star break in desperate need of rest.

Sunday’s starter, Will Warren, hasn’t been sharp lately, and manager Aaron Boone has hinted at potential piggyback scenarios. With Fried on the mound Saturday, New York must maximize his innings, particularly against a Cubs offense that has found life lately with Nico Hoerner, Dansby Swanson, and Ian Happ all heating up.

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Betting Preview: Fried Factor, Unders in Play

Oddsmakers opened the Yankees as slight favorites (-125) with a total of 8.0 runs, reflecting the elite pitching matchup and both teams’ recent lean toward the under.

Top Betting Angles for Saturday:

1. Yankees ML (-125 or better)

Fried has been the most bankable Yankees starter over the past month, and with the bullpen rested after a short outing Friday, this is a good spot to lean New York—especially before a more volatile setup on Sunday.

2. Under 8.0 Runs

Both Fried and Boyd are tough on lefties and adept at suppressing power. With All-Star break energy setting in and cooler evening temps at Wrigley, expect limited run production—especially early. Keep an eye on wind direction, of course.

3. First Five Innings Under 4.5

If you’re unsure about bullpens or late-inning volatility, isolating the starting pitchers with a first five under offers cleaner exposure to what should be a pitcher’s duel.

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All-Star Fallout and Motivation: Yankees With Something to Prove

Don’t overlook the psychological edge: the Yankees had multiple players snubbed or dropped from All-Star consideration, while Boyd gets a ceremonial nod. Fried, especially, may pitch with a chip on his shoulder—opting out of the game but making a case for “best lefty in the AL” with a primetime performance at Wrigley.

Also worth watching: Aaron Judge’s prop lines. Though he’s had a quieter July, Judge’s history against soft-tossing lefties makes him a viable home run play (+320 to +360) in a ballpark that can reward right-handed loft.

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Final Word: Wrigley Stage, October Vibes

It’s only July, but Saturday’s Yankees-Cubs showdown carries the weight of something bigger. Fried vs. Boyd is a playoff-caliber pitching duel, and with both teams needing a springboard into the second half, this one feels decisive.

Bet lean: Yankees ML + Under 8.0

Prop sprinkle: Judge HR & Fried Over 5.5 Ks

For two teams with massive expectations, Saturday is more than just a final series before the break—it’s a test of stamina, strategy, and postseason readiness.

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