Some bad news was delivered regarding several notable pitchers on April 7. Astros ace Hunter Brown has been shut down indefinitely, while second-year MLB pitcher Cade Horton is officially done for 2026.
Horton done for 2026
Cubs manager Craig Counsell announced on the 7th that pitcher Cade Horton will miss the rest of the 2026 season. He will undergo season-ending elbow surgery.
Horton left his start last week with forearm discomfort, and per ESPN, he was due to meet with surgeon Dr. Keith Meister this week regarding the injury.
Brown shut down
The Astros confirmed that pitcher Hunter Brown has been diagnosed with a Grade 2 right shoulder strain. He will not throw “for a few weeks,” per an official team announcement.
Brown was placed on the IL with that shoulder strain on April 5.
Updates on Blue Jays’ injuries
The Blue Jays provided updates on Addison Barger, Alejandro Kirk, and Cody Ponce.
Barger was placed on the 10-day IL with an ankle sprain. The move came two days after he departed a contest against the White Sox with ankle discomfort.
Kirk had thumb surgery, and the catcher had a screw placed in his left thumb. He’s expected to miss at least six weeks.
Ponce will have surgery on his ACL next week and is expected to miss six months, effectively ending his 2026 regular season.
Eflin moved to 60-day IL
The Orioles moved pitcher Zach Eflin, who’s dealing with elbow discomfort, to the 60-day IL.
Per the team, he will get a second opinion on the injury this week (h/t MASN).
Rehab assignments
The Guardians sent reliever Andrew Walters on a rehab assignment to Triple-A Columbus.
Rays pitcher Edwin Uceta, meanwhile, was sent to Double-A Montgomery to begin his own rehab stint.
Other news
Brice Turang will not start on April 7, as manager Pat Murphy stated that the infielder is dealing with a lower-body injury.
The Diamondbacks placed first baseman Carlos Santana on the IL with a strained right adductor. Additionally, Jordan Lawlar was moved to the 60-day IL.
Gabriel Arias (Guardians) and Austin Hays were placed on the IL.
Phillies reliever Orion Kerkering was activated off the injured list.
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