Cubs' Rookie Sensation Cade Horton Lands on IL with Rib Fracture, Misses Playoffs

Chicago Cubs' right-hander Cade Horton, a leading contender for NL Rookie of the Year, was placed on the 15-day injured list with a right rib fracture, effective retroactively to Thursday. This injury sidelines the 24-year-old, a 2022 first-round pick, for the Cubs' crucial first-round playoff series against San Diego, marking a significant blow for the team's first postseason appearance since 2020. Horton had an impressive season, boasting an 8-1 record with a 1.03 ERA in 12 starts post-All-Star break, and an overall 11-4 record with a 2.67 ERA. He exited his September 23rd start due to back tightness, which manager Craig Counsell attributed to coughing from a prior illness. Despite his desire to pitch, discomfort during throwing on Saturday confirmed his inability to continue, with his return timeline currently uncertain.