Cade Horton, a rising star for the Cubs, is set to undergo season-ending elbow surgery. The news comes after Horton experienced discomfort in his right forearm during a start.
Horton’s Injury and Surgery Details
Damage to the ulnar collateral ligament in Horton’s right elbow necessitates the surgery, according to manager Craig Counsell. Counsell did not specify the exact procedure Horton would have. A date for the surgery has not been set.
Horton, who finished as runner-up for the NL Rookie of the Year in 2025, exited his start on Friday in Cleveland in the second inning. He was subsequently placed on the 15-day injured list on Sunday.
Impact on the Cubs’ Pitching Rotation
Horton’s injury compounds existing challenges within the Cubs’ pitching rotation. Opening Day starter Matthew Boyd is currently on the IL with a left biceps strain. Justin Steele is still recovering from elbow surgery he underwent last April, with an eye toward a return in the first half of this season.
Replacements in the Rotation
With Horton and Boyd sidelined, Javier Assad and Colin Rea are expected to fill out the back of Chicago’s rotation.
Horton’s Performance Before Injury
Horton, 24, had a strong season for the Cubs last year, posting an 11-4 record with a 2.67 ERA over 23 games (22 starts). He received nine first-place votes in Rookie of the Year voting, finishing second to Drake Baldwin of the Braves. In his first start this year, Horton allowed two runs over 6 1/3 innings against Washington on March 28. However, in his second start, his fastball velocity dropped noticeably from the first to second inning, and he lasted just 17 pitches against four batters.
The Cubs will now navigate the season without Horton as he recovers from surgery.