Cade Horton

After a promising 2025 campaign that saw him post an 11-4 record with a 2.67 ERA and 97 strikeouts across 118 innings as a rookie, this 24-year-old right-hander enters 2026 with legitimate upside as a mid-rotation starter. His early-season numbers suggest further refinement, with an improved 2.45 ERA and 0.82 WHIP through limited action, indicating continued development of his control and efficiency. The primary appeal lies in strikeout production and ERA stability, though fantasy managers should monitor his innings load carefully given his age and relative inexperience, as the Cubs may manage his workload conservatively. If granted a full-time starting role, he offers win-loss and strikeout category potential, but inconsistent volume remains the key risk for those banking on his performances this season.