Cubs' Top Pitching Prospect Likely Doesn't Make MLB Debut This Season

Chicago Cubs fans will likely have to wait longer to see one of their top prospects pitch in the MLB.

There are tons of elite prospects on the verge of making their debuts for the Chicago Cubs this season.

After developing into being considered a top-five farm system, those on the cusp of playing in the MLB for the first time could become impact players at some point during their career.

One that has fans and the organization excited is Cade Horton, their No. 2 overall player according to MLB Pipeline.

The right-hander was taken seventh overall by the Cubs in the 2022 MLB Draft and is already turning heads.

The 22-year-old started 21 games during his first professional season and finished with an ERA of 2.65, striking out 117 batters across 88 1/3 innings pitched.

Horton projects to be an elite starter when he makes the bigs.

Unfortunately for him and Chicago fans, it doesn't seem like that might happen for another year or two.

The Cubs addressed their starting rotation by signing Jameson Taillon in free agency last offseason and adding Japanese star Shota Imanaga this year. While Taillon struggled in his first season with Chicago, he's expected to bounce back, and Imanaga has all the makings of becoming a future ace.

Justin Steele is the current No. 1 on this staff and Kyle Hendricks is back for another year.

The only potential slot that could be open is the fifth spot , which will likely come down to a competition between Javier Assad and Jordan Wicks.

All this adds up to the rotation being full and the 22-year-old potential star still having to wait his turn.

Of course, things could change based on injuries or poor performance. Plus there's an opportunity for late season call ups where he can make his first MLB appearance.

Horton hasn't even touched Triple-A yet in his career, so it will be interesting to see where he begins the 2024 season.

Either way, he's a prospect to keep an eye on throughout the year.