The Chicago Cubs were headed into the '26 season with eyes on the World Series, as they had built one of the best rosters in baseball. Well, a lot has changed in under a month, as injuries have dismantled the pitching staff before the team even got a chance.

The biggest hit to the Cubs was the loss of starting pitcher Cade Horton , who just underwent Tommy John surgery, which is taking him out of the season for its entirety and most likely into the 2027 season.

When a pitcher has to undergo Tommy John surgery, it's less than ideal. And to make matters worse, this isn't Horton's first, but his second, as he had the same injury in college back in '21. While this all seems quite dreary, his own teammate could be key to a successful return.

Cade Horton | Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Jameson Taillon is someone who can lead the way for Horton as the young pitcher tries to navigate his return to the mound.…