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
Jason Heyward announces retirement after 16 years in big leagues Jason Heyward, a World Series champion, five-time Gold Glove winner, and All-Star outfielder, officially retired from Major League Baseball after a 16-season career. The announcement came via MLB Central on Friday, marking the end of his journey with teams including the Braves, Cubs, Cardinals, Dodgers, Astros, and Padres. Known for his defensive prowess and leadership, Heyward’s career spanned over a decade, with his most iconic moments coming during his time with the Cubs from 2016 to 2022. Heyward’s professional journey began in 2010 when he debuted with the Atlanta Braves, a team that selected him in the 2007 first-round draft from Henry County High School in McDonough, Georgia. His rookie season was standout, as he posted a .277/.393/.456 slash line in 142 games, earning him a runner-up finish for NL Rookie of the Year behind Giants catcher Buster Posey. Over the next five years, he solidified his reputation as a top-tier defender, winning two Gold Glove Awards while playing for the Braves and Cardinals. His performance led to an eight-year, $184 million contract with the Cubs in 2016, then the largest free-agent deal in the team’s history. Despite his defensive excellence, Heyward’s offensive contributions were occasionally overshadowed. However, his impact extended beyond the field, particularly during the 2016 World Series. As the Cubs faced a rain delay in Game 7, Heyward delivered a motivational speech to his teammates, reminding them of their resilience and the team’s historic regular-season success. His words helped rally the squad, leading to a dramatic 10th-inning victory that broke a 108-year championship drought for the franchise.#atlanta_braves #chicago #cubs #jason_heyward #mlb_central
Cubs and Nico Hoerner Agree to 6-Year Contract Infielder Nico Hoerner and the Chicago Cubs have reportedly reached a six-year contract agreement, according to ESPN’s Jesse Rogers. The deal comes as Hoerner, 28, prepares to avoid becoming a free agent after the 2025 season. He was set to enter free agency following the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, having completed a three-year, $35 million contract he signed prior to the 2023 MLB season. Hoerner has established himself as a reliable performer throughout his seven-year professional career. During the 2025 season, he recorded a batting line of .297/.345/.394, contributing 29 doubles, 7 home runs, 61 runs batted in, and 29 stolen bases in 649 plate appearances. His consistent output has made him a valuable asset to the Cubs’ lineup, and the new contract underscores the team’s confidence in his contributions moving forward. The agreement marks a significant development for both parties, as it secures Hoerner’s future with the Cubs for the next six seasons. The deal is expected to provide stability to the team’s infield while offering Hoerner long-term financial security. Details about the contract’s financial terms were not disclosed, but the extension reflects the player’s impact on the roster and his potential for continued growth. This breaking news story will be updated.#2025_season #mlb #nico_hoerner #cubs #jesse_rogers
Cubs Legends Anthony Rizzo and David Ross Team Up for Podcast Celebrating 2016 World Series The Chicago Cubs are commemorating the 10th anniversary of their 2016 World Series victory throughout 2026, with plans for a team reunion on July 18. The championship, which ended a 108-year title drought, remains a defining moment in franchise history, and many key players from that era continue to engage with the team and its fans. Anthony Rizzo, the former first baseman who retired in 2025 after a 14-year MLB career, has remained connected to the Cubs by pursuing a broadcasting career. He will work for NBC Sports and Netflix, while David Ross, who played for the Cubs from 2007 to 2016, concluded his 15-year playing career with the 2016 title. Ross later managed the Cubs from 2020 to 2023 before transitioning to television as an ESPN analyst. Rizzo and Ross are now collaborating on a new project as the 2026 season begins. They announced the "Lovable Reunion" podcast, which will feature interviews with former members of the 2016 championship team. The show aims to share stories and memories from that historic season, with Rizzo describing it as a chance to "sit down and everyone tells stories." The podcast will include filmed interviews and behind-the-scenes insights from the 2016 Cubs' title run. Guests confirmed for the series include Kris Bryant, Joe Maddon, Jon Lester, Jake Arrieta, John Lackey, Kyle Schwarber, and Addison Russell. Ross noted that the players are "ticked off" they can’t join the sessions in person, as the conversations often extend beyond the planned two-hour sessions. The first episode of the podcast is set to debut on March 31, 2026. The project reflects the enduring bond between the 2016 team members, who continue to connect with fans and each other despite their individual paths in baseball.#anthony_rizzo #david_ross #2016_world_series #cubs #kris_bryant
