Chicago Cubs pitcher Cade Horton underwent Tommy John surgery Thursday and faces an extended rehabilitation period of 15 to 16 months, according to the team’s Friday announcement.
The 24-year-old right-hander won’t be expected back on the mound until July or August 2027, a lengthier recovery period than typical because this marks his second elbow ligament reconstruction surgery. Horton previously had the same UCL repair procedure performed during his college career in 2021.
The Cubs placed Horton on the 15-day injured list April 5, just two days following his abbreviated appearance against Cleveland. He departed that road game after throwing only 17 pitches across one-plus innings.
Through his two starts this season, Horton posted a 1-0 record with a 2.45 earned run average.
Chicago selected Horton as their first-round draft choice in 2022, taking him seventh overall. Last season, he compiled an 11-4 record with a 2.67 ERA across 23 appearances, including 22 starts, and earned runner-up honors in National League Rookie of the Year balloting.
