Cubs' Doubleheader Postponed Amid Rain, Injury Concerns The Chicago Cubs faced a series of challenges as their scheduled doubleheader against the Cleveland Guardians on April 4, 2026, was postponed due to rain. The storm, which arrived in Cleveland on Saturday evening, disrupted the team’s plans for the traditional twin bill, originally set to begin at 12:10 p.m. CT on Sunday at Progressive Field. The postponement provided the Cubs additional time to evaluate their pitching options for the rescheduled games, which would feature righty Edward Cabrera in Game 1 and lefty Shota Imanaga in Game 2. The Cubs’ rotation was already under pressure after Cade Horton, a key starter, exited Friday’s game early due to right forearm discomfort. Horton’s injury forced the team to place him on the 15-day injured list with a right forearm strain, leaving a critical gap in their starting lineup. Manager Craig Counsell has not yet officially named Horton’s replacement, but veteran Colin Rea is emerging as a leading candidate. Rea, who previously served as a reliever before being moved to the rotation in 2025, has shown resilience in his career, including a strong September 2025 stretch with a 2.63 ERA and a 1.17 ERA in three playoff games. To bolster their depth, the Cubs promoted righty Ethan Roberts as the 27th man for the doubleheader and recalled lefty Riley Martin from Triple-A Iowa. Martin, who participated in Saturday’s workout in Cleveland, added another layer to the team’s pitching options. However, the uncertainty surrounding Horton’s injury and the need for a reliable starter for the team’s next game against the Tampa Bay Rays on Wednesday complicated the decision-making process. The Cubs’ bullpen and minor league system also played a role in addressing the depth concerns.#chicago_cubs #cade_horton #cleveland_guardians #colin_rea #progressive_field
Cade Horton Injured, Cubs Face Uncertain Future Cade Horton, the Chicago Cubs' right-handed pitcher, suffered a forearm injury during Friday’s game against the Cleveland Guardians, forcing him to leave the contest in the second inning. The injury has raised concerns about his availability for the remainder of the season, with both Horton and manager Craig Counsell expressing cautious optimism. While initial reports suggested the injury might not be as severe as feared, the Cubs’ medical team is still assessing the extent of the damage. The injury comes at a critical juncture for the Cubs, who had relied heavily on Horton’s performance to bolster their rotation. His absence could significantly impact the team’s chances of competing in the National League Central. The Cubs are now looking to Colin Rea, a promising prospect, to step into the rotation. Rea, who has shown potential in the minors, is being considered as a possible replacement, though his readiness for a major league role remains uncertain. Horton’s injury also complicates the Cubs’ plans for the upcoming season. The team had hoped to build on their recent success, having bounced back from a losing streak with a win against the Guardians. However, the loss of their key pitcher has shifted the focus to managing the injury and preparing for the challenges ahead. The Cubs’ front office is reportedly evaluating options for long-term solutions, including potential trades or roster adjustments. The injury has sparked discussions about the Cubs’ depth and their ability to sustain success without key players. Prospect James Triantos, who has been performing well in the minors, is being highlighted as a potential future asset. His recent two-homer game has drawn attention, but the team’s immediate needs remain centered on stabilizing the rotation.#cubs #cade_horton #cleveland_guardians #craig_counsell #colin_rea
