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5 Cubs prospects that took a step forward - 1. Cade Horton
If you're not bullish on Cade Horton's ability yet, I advise you to change your outlook on life and practice having more optimism. Horton has proved he's the real deal in every situation he's been placed in. After being drafted 7th overall in the 2022 MLB draft, he delivered in his first season of professional ball with a 2.65 ERA in 88.1 IP, while recording 117 punchouts in the process. He started two games in the Double-A playoffs, going 2-0 with a collective 0.90 postseason ERA in 10 innings.
Horton hurled 27 innings at the Double-A level in 2023, and there's a solid chance he starts there again in 2024. However, it will be soon that we see him in Triple-A Iowa, just one phone call away from MLB. He is a core piece of the Cubs' organization moving forward, and he's already the #2 prospect for the Cubs, including #29 overall. In 2023, he won Cubs pitcher of the year. At his best, he flashes true frontline starter material, and 2024 will be a massive year for him and the rest of the members on this list.