Cubs Rotation Aims for 255 Innings from Young Duo

Cabrera and Horton key to Cubs' deep pitching staff in 2026

Mar. 29, 2026 at 5:31pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a baseball pitcher's windup and delivery broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in the Cubs' team colors of navy blue, red, and white.The Cubs' young pitching duo of Cabrera and Horton could be the key to unlocking the team's deep rotation in 2026.Chicago Today

The Chicago Cubs have built a strong starting rotation for the 2026 season, led by veteran starters Shota Imanaga, Matthew Boyd, and Jameson Taillon. However, the success of the rotation could hinge on the performances of young pitchers Edward Cabrera and Cade Horton, who combined for 255 2/3 innings last season.

Why it matters

The Cubs are hoping their depth in the rotation will be a key advantage in a competitive NL Central division. Cabrera and Horton taking the next step in their development could make the Cubs' staff one of the best in baseball.

The details

Cabrera, acquired in a trade last year, set a career-high with 137 2/3 innings pitched in 2025. Horton, a rookie last season, added 118 innings. If the two young hurlers can replicate or improve on those totals in 2026, the Cubs' rotation would have a strong foundation to build upon.

  • Cabrera set a career-high with 137 2/3 innings pitched in 2025.
  • Horton added 118 innings as a rookie in 2025.

The players

Shota Imanaga

A veteran starting pitcher for the Cubs.

Matthew Boyd

A veteran starting pitcher for the Cubs.

Jameson Taillon

A veteran starting pitcher for the Cubs.

Edward Cabrera

A young starting pitcher acquired by the Cubs in a trade last year.

Cade Horton

A rookie starting pitcher for the Cubs last season.

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What they’re saying

“If Cabrera and Horton can give us 255 innings again, that's a huge boost to our rotation depth.”

— Jed Hoyer, Cubs President of Baseball Operations

What’s next

The Cubs will be monitoring Cabrera and Horton closely in spring training to see if they can build on their 2025 workloads and solidify the team's rotation.

The takeaway

The Cubs have assembled a deep and talented starting rotation, but their success may hinge on the continued development of young pitchers Cabrera and Horton, who could provide a crucial 255 innings if they take the next step in 2026.