The Chicago Cubs are facing the postseason without the services of promising rookie pitcher Cade Horton, who has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a right rib fracture. This unfortunate development sidelines Horton at least through the National League Division Series, which is problematic for the Cubs as they gear up for their Wild Card Series against the San Diego Padres.
This move, backdated to September 25, follows Horton’s exit from his September 23 start because of side soreness. Cubs president of baseball operations, Jed Hoyer, mentioned uncertainty about the injury’s cause, speculating illness-related coughing in Cincinnati as a possible factor. No definitive event has been identified as the fracture’s origin.
Initially, the team hoped Horton could be available for the Wild Card Series, but his earliest potential return now is October 10. This is significant because roster changes during a series can only happen if another player is injured, and MLB must approve all postseason roster substitutions.
Replacements have been made in response to the injury, with left-hander Jordan Wicks being called up. The Cubs’ current rotation has Boyd and Imanaga lined up for Games 1 and 2 of the Wild Card Series, and Rea anticipated for Game 3. The series is expected to take place at Wrigley Field, though it’s yet to be officially confirmed. The series victor will likely face the Milwaukee Brewers or possibly the Philadelphia Phillies in the subsequent NLDS.
Horton debuted in the major leagues on May 10, delivering an impressive 2.67 ERA over 118 innings in his 22 starts, marking a strong rookie season. His absence is a considerable blow to the Cubs’ postseason hopes, as Horton was a potential starter for Game 1 of the Wild Card Series.
Historically, rib fractures have sidelined pitchers for an extended period, with an average recovery time of 88 days based on data from recent years. The duration of Horton’s absence depends on the fracture’s severity, but generally, it is not a short-term injury.
With playoff stakes high, the Cubs will need to adjust their strategy to accommodate this significant setback. Despite this challenge, the team remains focused on advancing past the Padres and making a deep postseason run.