Breakout Cubs starter continues to be disrespected in MLB power rankings

After flashing some encouraging signs during the first half of the season, Cade Horton's rookie campaign has evolved into a true breakout season due to his dominance during the second half of the season. Horton isn't just making the case to be the ace of the Cubs' starting rotation; he is becoming a favorite for the National League Rookie of the Year award.

Since July 1, Horton has carried a 1.11 ERA while striking out 24 percent of the hitters he has faced. During Horton's rise through the Cubs' system, it was his ability to miss bats that played a factor in his rise to being the team's top pitching prospect. A pitcher with a swing-and-miss profile is something that the Cubs have sorely missed in their starting rotation, and Horton seems to be a clear answer.

With Justin Steele likely going to miss the start of the 2026 season, it would seem that Horton is in line to be the team's No. 2 starting pitcher next season. Though there could even be a case that he should be viewed as their ace.

Regardless, Horton's profile is on the rise, and yet he was completely snubbed by Major League Baseball during their latest starting pitcher power rankings. Horton wasn't even mentioned among the 10 starting pitchers ranked, and instead, got a passing mention as an honorable mention.

Cubs’ breakout arm just got hit with another brutal MLB snub

Whether looking at Horton's season as a whole or the dominant run he has been on over the last two months, he has been one of the best starting pitchers in all of baseball. There is no reason why Horton should be relegated to being an honorable mention when he has very clearly been pitching at a Cy Young level over his last nine starts.

With the injury to Jameson Taillon, Horton seems to be in line to make a postseason start for the Cubs. As of now, it's hard to argue against the idea that Horton should be the Game 2 starter for the Cubs, behind Shota Imanaga in the postseason rotation.

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