Cubs place Cade Horton on the 15-day IL with a right rib fracture, likely sidelining him through at least the NLDS. Jordan Wicks is recalled to add rotation depth as Horton’s status remains uncertain; the earliest return could be Oct. 10, with further roster rules complicating a possible NLDS Game 5 start. The Cubs’ current rotation features Justin Steele, Matthew Boyd, Shota Imanaga, Jameson Taillon, Colin Rea, and Javier Assad, with Horton’s absence reshaping the workload and bullpen planning.

Baseball Prospectus notes rib fractures typically require a lengthy recovery, averaging about 88 days in recent data, underscoring the risk of a short-term return. Horton, 24, posted a 2.67 ERA across 118 innings in 22 starts, leaving Chicago with strong but thinner depth if he cannot contribute. The Cubs are navigating postseason substitution rules as they prepare for the Wild Card Series and NLDS.

The Chicago Cubs have made a significant acquisition by trading for pitcher Mike Soroka from the Washington Nationals in exchange for two prospects. Soroka, 27, has struggled with a 3-8 record and a 4.87 ERA this season, leading the league with 14 hit batsmen. A former standout with the Atlanta Braves, he has battled injuries over the past few seasons but has an impressive career ERA of 3.91. The Cubs are in urgent need of pitching depth as they navigate injuries to key players like Justin Steele, Jameson Taillon, and Javier Assad.

Soroka's expected stats show promise, notably an expected ERA of 3.32, suggesting he could perform better than his current numbers indicate. The Cubs are hoping his experience and potential will bolster their rotation and bullpen, especially with the trade deadline looming. They'll be sending Triple-A outfielder Christian Franklin and 18-year-old infielder Ronny Cruz back to the Nationals as part of the deal.

The Chicago Cubs are actively pursuing a new starting pitcher as the MLB trade deadline approaches, especially following injuries to Jameson Taillon, Justin Steele, and Javier Assad. MLB insider Buster Olney reports the Cubs are interested in Dylan Cease, a surprising name on the market. This 29-year-old pitcher, currently with the San Diego Padres, has faced challenges this season, posting a 4.64 ERA but retains a strong strikeout rate with 139 strikeouts in 20 starts. Given his previous success, including a Cy Young runner-up finish in 2022 with a 2.20 ERA, Cease could be a pivotal addition to the Cubs' rotation.

With Cease set to become a free agent, multiple teams, including the Cubs, have engaged in discussions. Despite recent struggles, his history suggests he could rebound and be a valuable asset. As the Cubs weigh their options, the availability of starting pitchers at the deadline could enhance their chances of securing Cease or another capable arm, which is crucial for their postseason ambitions.

The Chicago Cubs are pushing hard for a playoff spot as they vie with the Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central, a division they haven't won since 2020. Their star player, Kyle Tucker, is set to hit free agency, adding urgency to their quest for postseason success. With President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer in the final year of his contract, the pressure mounts to maximize this competitive window.

Starting pitching improvement has been a primary focus, with Shota Imanaga returning strong from injury, and Matthew Boyd showing signs of a career revival. Although Jameson Taillon's performance has been inconsistent, he remains a reliable innings eater. Nonetheless, the Cubs are exploring adding further depth, with Mitch Keller of the Pittsburgh Pirates identified as a key target. Keller's impressive 3.48 ERA and strikeout count make him a compelling option, especially with his contract control through 2028. His recent success against the Brewers enhances his allure as the Cubs approach the trade deadline.

The Chicago Cubs find themselves in a competitive race for the National League Central title, recently losing their lead to the Milwaukee Brewers. To bolster their chances for a deep postseason run, the Cubs are focusing on upgrading their starting rotation, especially following the season-ending injury to Justin Steele. Notable pitchers like Shōta Imanaga and Matthew Boyd have performed admirably, but the Cubs recognize the need for more consistency.

As the trade deadline approaches, the Cubs are reportedly exploring options, with Seth Lugo from the Kansas City Royals emerging as a potential target. Despite being a 35-year-old veteran, Lugo has showcased durability and consistency, with a 2.94 ERA over his last 18 starts. While he may not be the ace fans dream of, his presence could solidify a rotation that currently lacks a reliable No. 5 starter. However, Lugo's contract structure, including a player option after this season, complicates his potential trade, making it crucial for the Cubs to weigh the risk of acquiring what could be a short-term asset.