The Chicago Cubs' pitching staff has been dealt a significant blow, with top prospect Cade Horton facing an extended absence. Manager Craig Counsell announced Friday that the right-hander is expected to miss 15 to 16 months following season-ending surgery on his pitching elbow.

Horton, 24, underwent an ulnar collateral ligament revision procedure on Thursday. This marks the second major reconstructive surgery on his elbow, having previously undergone Tommy John surgery as a freshman at Oklahoma in 2021. The promising young starter, who finished second in NL Rookie of the Year voting last season, was forced to exit his April 3 start in Cleveland after just 17 pitches due to a noticeable drop in velocity.

Adding to the bullpen's challenges, the Cubs have also placed reliever Daniel Palencia on the 15-day injured list with a strained left oblique. Palencia had been a bright spot early on, not allowing a run in five appearances this season after recording 22 saves in 2023.

For Horton, the focus is now on the long road to recovery. Counsell shared the pitcher's mindset, emphasizing a day-by-day approach to navigate the demanding rehabilitation process ahead. The Cubs will now look to their depth to fill the void left by two key arms as they navigate the early part of the season.