Cubs Announce Cade Horton News After Leaving Guardians Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Apr 3, 2026 4:56 PM ET

The Chicago Cubs pitching staff has the potential to emerge as one of the best in MLB this season, especially after acquiring right‑hander Edward Cabrera in a deal with the Miami Marlins this past offseason. Chicago features plenty of young talent aside from Cabrera, still looking to prove that their success is built for the long run.

One of those players is right‑hander Cade Horton, now in his second season with the club. The 24‑year‑old broke out for the Cubs in 2025, finishing second in National League Rookie of the Year voting and emerging as a foundational piece of the rotation.

Across 23 appearances, Horton posted a 2.67 ERA and an 11‑4 record while striking out 97 batters in 118 innings. He was a major reason Chicago reached the MLB playoffs.

Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Cade Horton (22)© Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Horton dazzled in his first start of the 2026 season, tossing 6 1/3 innings, earning his first win and allowing just two runs against the Washington Nationals.

He looked to continue that success on Friday on the road against the Cleveland Guardians. Unfortunately for Horton, that did not transpire, as he exited the game in the second inning with an apparent injury.

He had thrown 17 pitches before looking toward the dugout. Trainers and coaches visited him on the mound, and after a brief discussion, he was removed from the game. Long reliever Colin Rea entered in his place.

Even on replay, it was unclear what had happened. The Cubs announced moments later that Horton left with right forearm discomfort (h/t Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network).

Per #Cubs, Cade Horton left the game with right forearm discomfort.
— Taylor McGregor (@Taylor_McGregor) April 3, 2026

This is a difficult blow for Horton and Chicago’s rotation if he is forced tomiss extended time. Horton clearly elevates the Cubs' ceiling, and his injury will be monitored closely to determine whether he can return for his next scheduled start.

Expectations have been high for Horton since he was selected seventh overall in the 2022 MLB Draft, and he has done his best to live up to them. He still has room to grow as well, particularly if he can generate more whiffs, as his strikeout rate remains below league-average.

With the Cubs aiming to contend deep into October, getting Horton back healthy will be essential to keeping their rotation among the league’s best.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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