Cubs Call Up Left-Hander Riley Martin Following Cade Horton Injury
The Chicago Cubs are shaking up their pitching staff as they navigate early-season injuries. The club has officially promoted left-handed reliever Riley Martin from Triple-A Iowa to the active roster, a move necessitated by the loss of starting pitcher Cade Horton.
Martin, a 28-year-traditional southpaw, is expected to make his Major League debut shortly. His arrival provides manager Craig Counsell with a high-strikeout left-handed option in the bullpen, though the move likewise signals a broader shift in how the Cubs will handle their starting rotation in the immediate future.
The Catalyst: Cade Horton’s Injury
The roster move comes after Cade Horton was placed on the 15-day injured list with right forearm discomfort. Horton, who entered 2026 with high expectations after a strong rookie campaign, suffered the injury during Friday’s game, departing in the second inning after throwing only 17 pitches.
This injury is a significant blow to a rotation already missing Justin Steele, who isn’t expected back until late May at the earliest. While the Cubs await further test results on Horton, the team has turned to internal options to fill the void.
Who is Riley Martin?
Riley Martin isn’t a typical top-tier prospect, but he has consistently climbed the ranks. A sixth-round pick out of Quincy University in 2021, Martin has spent the last four seasons pitching at the Triple-A level. Because he was added to the 40-man roster last November to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft, his recall didn’t require any corresponding roster subtraction beyond Horton’s IL placement.
According to MLB Trade Rumors, Martin’s profile is defined by a “plus curveball” and an upright delivery that maximizes deception. While he struggles with control—posting an inflated 15.57% walk rate in Iowa—his ability to miss bats is undeniable. He maintained a 30.7% strikeout rate over 63.2 innings last season, posting a 2.69 ERA.
Industry rankings reflect his potential: Baseball America ranks him as the 20th-best prospect in the Cubs organization, while MLB Pipeline places him at 28th.
Rotation Shuffle: Colin Rea and Ben Brown
While Martin joins the bullpen, he won’t be the one replacing Horton in the starting rotation. Instead, the move suggests that veteran Colin Rea will step into the spot-starter role. Rea, who began the season as a multi-inning reliever, is viewed as the primary candidate to assume Horton’s duties.
Right-hander Ben Brown remains another candidate to cover multiple frames, but the current strategy points toward Rea taking the mound. Martin is expected to fill the long-relief role that Rea previously occupied, providing the Cubs with necessary depth.
Additional Roster Moves
In addition to Martin’s promotion, the Cubs have recalled right-hander Ethan Roberts. Roberts will serve as the club’s 27th man for today’s doubleheader against the Guardians.
Key Takeaways: Cubs Roster Update
- Riley Martin: Promoted from Triple-A Iowa; expected to make his MLB debut as a left-handed reliever.
- Cade Horton: On the 15-day IL with a right forearm injury.
- Colin Rea: Likely moving from the bullpen into the starting rotation.
- Rotation Status: The Cubs remain without Justin Steele until late May.
- Ethan Roberts: Recalled as the 27th man for the Guardians doubleheader.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Riley Martin start games for the Cubs?
No. Martin is being brought up to provide depth in the bullpen, specifically as a left-handed option and long reliever. Colin Rea is the leading candidate to take over starting duties for the injured Cade Horton.
What is Riley Martin’s scouting report?
Martin is known for a devastating curveball and a deceptive, upright delivery. While he possesses high strikeout potential, he has struggled with consistency in the strike zone, trading control for deception.
When will Cade Horton return?
Horton is currently on the 15-day injured list. The team is awaiting results from further tests to determine the full extent of his right forearm injury.
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