The Chicago Cubs believe they have a team ready to compete for playoff appearances and championships starting in 2024. However, the talent they have throughout their organization keeps fans interested in more than just the Cubs in Chicago. It feels as if the Cubs are about as rich with assets as they have ever been.
One of those assets the Cubs are so excited about is starting pitcher Cade Horton. After dominating hitters in AA Tennessee with the Smokies, Horton was promoted to AAA Iowa to join those Cubs, continuing his quick path through the farm system to the major leagues. He is still finding his way with the promotion, struggling just a tad. But the 21-year-old is primed to make his way to Chicago sometime this summer.
Or, at least, we thought he was. Horton made his fifth start with Iowa in AAA on Wednesday night in Louisville. But as he was warming up before the bottom of the second inning, the Cubs' training staff emerged from the dugout. He was removed from the game after that.
Cubs' Top Prospect Cade Horton Removed From Game
According to Patrick Mooney of The Athletic, starter Cade Horton was removed from Wednesday's game due to back soreness. Much remains unknown about what happened, how it happened, and where to go from here, but that is what we know at this point.
Horton is expected to join the Chicago Cubs in some capacity this summer as part of the pitching staff. The Cubs currently have a healthy rotation, with Ben Brown seemingly replacing Kyle Hendricks. Should Horton still join the Cubs this summer, he could be a piece to provide multiple innings out of the bullpen or make spot starts as needed.
Cubs' social media will undoubtedly be watching the situation through the night, hoping for the best news. As back issues are nothing to toy with, expect the Cubs to take every precaution to ensure Horton's long-term health is a top priority.
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