Cade Horton has quickly become a focal point for the Chicago Cubs heading into the new season, drawing attention for his impressive rise after helping the University of Oklahoma reach the Men’s College World Series in 2022. Drafted seventh overall in the 2022 MLB Draft, Horton rapidly advanced through the minor leagues and made his major league debut against the New York Mets in early May of last season, showcasing his potential as a frontline starter.
Horton’s Strong Debut Sets High Expectations for Cubs Rotation
During his rookie campaign, Horton posted an 11-4 record with a 2.67 ERA and recorded 97 strikeouts over 118 innings. His outstanding performance positioned him as a serious contender for the National League Rookie of the Year, finishing just behind Atlanta Braves’ Drake Baldwin. As the Cubs prepare for the new season, Horton carries the pressure of solidifying his role as the team’s ace and leading what could be one of the strongest pitching rotations in Major League Baseball.
Bleacher Report Analyst Highlights Horton as Potential Staff Leader
Joel Reuter of Bleacher Report points out the Cubs’ rotation is deep but currently lacks a definitive ace to anchor the staff. He notes Horton’s remarkable post-All-Star break burst last season, during which he went 8-1 with a 1.03 ERA over 61.1 innings. This performance suggests Horton has the capability to serve as the Cubs’ leading pitcher, at least until teammate Justin Steele returns from elbow surgery, possibly around the All-Star break.
The Cubs have a strong rotation top-to-bottom, but there’s a case to be made that they are lacking a bona fide ace to anchor the staff. After going 8-1 with a 1.03 ERA in 61.1 innings after the All-Star break last season, Cade Horton has the potential to be that guy, or at least bridge the gap until Justin Steele returns sometime before the All-Star break.
—Joel Reuter, Bleacher Report Analyst
Anticipation Builds Around Cubs’ Pitching Depth for Upcoming Season
The impending return of Justin Steele adds another layer of complexity and optimism for the Cubs’ pitching staff, which already boasts young, talented arms like Horton. However, with Horton positioned as the primary starter, the pressure mounts for him to sustain the dominant performances he showed last season. This responsibility carries significant weight as the Cubs aim to maximize their promising rotation’s impact on their pursuit of success in MLB.
