The Cubs are promoting their top pitching prospects as injuries to their major league clubs continue to mount in early 2025.
The Chicago Cubs are poised to showcase promising talent to their pitching roster when they call out Triple-A-Iowa’s top prospect Cade Horton. Horton, who was selected seventh overall in the Oklahoma 2022 MLB Draft, shows off the incredible skills of the minors, boasting an ERA of 1.24 with 33 strikeouts in 26 innings this season.
His rise comes at a critical time. The Cubs are facing injuries to major pitchers, including Shota Imanaga, who was recently placed on the list injured due to hamstring tension. Horton’s debut is expected to bring fresh energy and depth to the Cubs’ rotation as they continue their strong performance at National League Central.
Breaking: The Chicago Cubs are calling Kade Houghton, a top-rank pitching prospect.
Horton has recorded an ERA of 1.24 and has recorded 33 strikeouts over 29.0 on the Triple-A this season.
– Wrigley Wire (@thewigleywire) May 8, 2025
From university standouts to major league prospects
Kade Houghton’s journey to majors is characterized by resilience and rapid development. After undergoing Tommy John’s surgery in 2021, Horton decided to return to the mound and showed off his skill while running to the College World Series in Oklahoma in 2022. His impressive performance attracted the attention of the Cubs, leading to his first round choice.
Kade Horton is heading for the Big League!
It’s an ace level thing right there! Congratulations Cade! pic.twitter.com/xpadjwzczb
– Pitchprofiler (@pitchprofiler) May 8, 2025
In minors, Horton continued to improve his skills, particularly his fastball and slider combination. Despite a brief retreat due to rotator cuff tension in 2023, he returned stronger, improving control and pitch diversity, including developing sinkers and occasional changeups. His dedication and adaptability cement his reputation as one of baseball’s top pitching prospects.
Cubs spinning is enhanced during the challenge
The Cubs’ decision to promote Horton comes in response to a series of injuries that have affected the pitching staff. Shouta Imanaga stands on the sidelines and other pitchers like Justin Steele and Javier Assad deal with their health issues, the team recognizes the need to strengthen. Horton’s consistent performance in Triple A made him a logical choice to fill the gap.
His addition is expected to provide stability as the team navigates the season and keep the team competitive. Manager Craig Counsel and the coaching staff are optimistic about Horton’s ability to move smoothly into a major league environment, effectively contributing to the team’s goals.
Hope for Horton’s debut is high
As Horton prepares for his major league debut, excitement builds up among fans and teammates. His scheduled start against the New York Mets presents an opportunity to showcase his talent on a bigger stage. The Cubs organization has expressed confidence in Horton’s preparation, highlighting his maturity and preparation at this moment.
Cade Horton is calling the Big League!
His best season came in 2022. There he pitched 88 innings to 2.65 ERA, 33.5%k%, 7.7%BB% and BAA 9’of .190.
Don’t forget that this was definitely a #1 pitching outlook before the injury.
– Louisanalysis (@louisanalysis) May 9, 2025
There is a collective belief in his potential to have a significant impact while acknowledging the challenges involved in such a transition. Horton’s debut is not just a personal milestone, but also a testament to the Cubs’ commitment to cultivate and consolidating homemade talent into the roster.
