That, in large part, is why starting pitcher Cade Horton has been selected by Levi Weaver of The Athletic (subscription required) as the team’s best rookie performer in 2025. He has had his bumps in the road, as any debuting player would. But he has navigated them more successfully than Shaw and has turned into a reliable pitcher for the team.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - AUGUST 18: Cade Horton #22 of the Chicago Cubs reacts against the Milwaukee Brewers during the first inning in game one of a doubleheader at Wrigley Field on August 18, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Cade Horton exited with a blister on his right middle finger in the third inning of a 7-0 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers on Monday