Cubs Land $64.5M Ace Pitcher After Horton's Season-Ending Injury

Chicago acquires star pitcher to fill rotation void left by young hurler's setback.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 12:00am

A cubist, geometric painting depicting the fractured, multi-angled motion of a baseball pitcher, with sharp planes of navy, forest green, and burnt orange colors.The Cubs' acquisition of a high-priced veteran pitcher represents a bold move to shore up their injury-plagued rotation and keep their season from unraveling.Chicago Today

The struggling Chicago Cubs have reportedly traded for a top-tier starting pitcher with a 2.89 ERA and $64.5 million contract to act as an emergency replacement after their young ace Cade Horton suffered a season-ending injury.

Why it matters

The Cubs' rotation has been decimated by injuries to their top two starters, putting their playoff hopes in jeopardy early in the season. Landing an established, high-priced ace could be a game-changer for the team's chances of turning things around.

The details

With Cade Horton out for the season due to injury, the Cubs have reportedly acquired a veteran starting pitcher with a 2.89 ERA and $64.5 million contract to bolster their rotation. This move comes as the team has struggled to a 4-6 record in the NL Central so far this year.

  • Cade Horton suffered a season-ending injury earlier this season.

The players

Cade Horton

A young Cubs starting pitcher who suffered a season-ending injury.

Matthew Boyd

One of the Cubs' top starting pitchers who is currently injured but expected to return at some point.

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What’s next

The Cubs will look to integrate the new starting pitcher into their rotation as quickly as possible to help turn around their slow start to the season.

The takeaway

This trade demonstrates the Cubs' urgency to address their pitching woes and keep their playoff hopes alive, even if it means taking on a hefty contract for an established veteran arm.