Kate Horton’s nine-start run of minuscule ERA and elite ratios headlines this fantasy recap, but the panel flags the short outings as a limitation that could blunt season-long value if his workload normalizes. Yuri Perez remains a top-tier upside starter, yet recent pops in performance keep him risky in weekly lineups. Roman Anthony’s rookie-year ceiling is discussed with optimism for 2026, though timing and playing time temper immediate impact. The show also surfaces drop candidates and several two-start options and sleeper arms for late-season streaming.

Kyle Tucker’s return anchors a Cubs sweep and sharpens the rotation conversation as Cade Horton rises from prospect to front-line option. Horton’s breakout run, Matt Shaw’s steady ascent, and Cam Smith’s poised approach feed a Cubs core that could press for a playoff push down the stretch. A favorable late-season schedule, Horton Rookie of the Year chatter, and Hendricks’ stability shape fantasy angles and rostering strategies.