Cubs Rookie Cade Horton Leads NL Rookie of Year Race

Chicago Cubs rookie pitcher Cade Horton has emerged as a dominant force in the National League, currently leading the Rookie of the Year race due to his exceptional performances since the All-Star break. Horton has posted a stunning 0.49 ERA across seven second-half starts, allowing only two runs and striking out notable players like Mike Trout multiple times in a single game, an achievement matched by few in Cubs history. His overall season ERA stands at 2.88 with 77 strikeouts over 93.1 innings, and he has led all qualified NL rookies in ERA. Horton's dominance has drawn comparisons to former Cubs ace Jake Arrieta, with many viewing him as a future ace for the team. Despite past injuries and innings limits, Horton's poise and maturity have allowed him to excel and become a key contributor to the Cubs' playoff push. The Cubs may benefit from locking in Horton with an early contract extension given his promising trajectory and control for five more years.