MLB: Spring Training San Diego Padres at Chicago Cubs MLB: Spring Training San Diego Padres at Chicago Cubs Mar 21, 2025; Mesa, Arizona, USA; Chicago Cubs pitcher Cade Horton throws against the San Diego Padres in the first inning at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

Cubs: Cade Horton’s unknown MLB debut date is creating quite the buzz

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Tyler Koerth | Last updated May 10, 2025 9:58 AM ET

The Chicago Cubs are looking for answers in their starting rotation, which has been impacted by injury. With Javier Assad, Justin Steele, and Shota Imanaga on the injured list, the team has been faced with a tough decision from a pitching stand point as they look to fill the void left by the most recent injury to Imanaga.

This weekend against the New York Mets, the Cubs have activated top prospect Cade Horton, but are not giving him the start on Saturday. Rather, Brad Keller will be on the bump to begin the game, with the rest of the pitchers to be determined after that.

Whether it’s a strategic decision or genuine uncertainty, reporter Taylor McGregor noted that manager Craig Counsell has yet to confirm whether Horton will follow Keller. There’s even a possibility Horton won’t pitch on Saturday at all, meaning his MLB debut could be delayed until Sunday, or possibly beyond.

Buzz is building around Chicago Cubs prospect Cade Horton making his MLB debut

Even though we don’t know when Horton will make his MLB debut, it’s likely to come sometime this weekend against the Mets. Pitcher Jameson Taillon told Marquee Sports Network, “He’s definitely earned this. He’s got a great pitch package, great stuff, great work ethic, he’s a great dude. I think everyone’s excited to see him.”

Getting to know Cade Horton

MLB: Spring Training San Diego Padres at Chicago Cubs MLB: Spring Training San Diego Padres at Chicago CubsMar 21, 2025; Mesa, Arizona, USA; Chicago Cubs pitcher Cade Horton throws against the San Diego Padres in the first inning at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

23 year old Horton was selected seventh overall by Chicago during the 2022 MLB Draft. The University of Oklahoma product has excelled professionally, but missed most of last season due to a LAT strain. His fastball operates in the mid 90’s, tops out around 98 MPH, and he mixes in curveballs, sliders, and changeups.

Despite the Cubs weighing the timing of Cade Horton’s MLB debut, he will be a big part of their plans going forward

As Chicago navigates a stretch of injuries and uncertainty, the decision surrounding Horton’s debut reflects both the team’s current challenges and its cautious approach with one of its most prized arms. While fans eagerly await Horton’s first appearance, the club appears committed to managing his transition carefully. Whether his debut comes this weekend or shortly after, he will be a key part of their pitching staff moving forward.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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