Cubs pitcher Cade Horton left today's start in the second inning with right forearm discomfort, raising concerns for the team's pitching depth. This injury comes as the Cubs are already missing their ace, Justin Steele, who is recovering from UCL surgery. Horton, 24, was an impressive rookie last season with a 2.67 ERA and a strong showing in his limited innings this year prior to the injury. His departure may lead to further strain on a rotation already challenged by multiple injuries.

By the Numbers
  • Horton recorded a fastball roughly two miles per hour slower than his season average before exiting.
  • In his two appearances this season, Horton has pitched 7 1/3 innings, allowing 2 runs on 4 hits.
  • Horton has a 20.4% strikeout rate and a 6.9% walk rate from his MLB debut to the present.
State of Play
  • Cubs rotation is already missing ace Justin Steele and former first-round pick Jordan Wicks due to injuries.
  • Cubs have several potential fill-ins for Horton, including Colin Rea, who posted a 4.33 ERA in 27 starts last season.
  • Ben Brown, stretched out for multiple innings, has pitch capability as well, with 6 2/3 frames under his belt this season.
What's Next

Horton's health will be evaluated to determine if an injured list stint is necessary. If it is, the Cubs will need to decide quickly who will step in as a starter. Potential options include Colin Rea, Ben Brown, or even Triple-A pitchers like Javier Assad or top prospect Jaxon Wiggins if added to the roster.

Bottom Line

The Cubs face potential upheaval in their starting rotation following Horton's forearm discomfort, risking an already thin pitching staff as they navigate early-season injuries. Monitoring Horton’s status will be critical, as their depth is further tested in the coming games.