CUBS MOST IMPACTFUL IN-SEASON MOVE: Chicago Demotes Top Prospect to Triple-A Amid Fan Backlash Over Brad Keller–Cade Horton Decision, While Jed Hoyer Provides Timeline on Matt Shaw’s Return
The Chicago Cubs have made what many are calling their most controversial and impactful in-season move of 2025, sending top pitching prospect Cade Horton back down to Triple-A Iowa. The decision has ignited a firestorm among fans and analysts, with some accusing the organization of effectively “punting” on the season after also choosing to promote veteran Brad Keller in Horton’s place. The backlash reflects mounting frustration with the team’s inconsistent performance and perceived lack of urgency in staying competitive in the NL Central race.
Cade Horton, considered by many to be the future ace of the Cubs rotation, had shown flashes of brilliance during his major league stint. Despite a few tough outings, his electric fastball and poise on the mound were widely praised. His demotion came as a surprise, particularly given the Cubs’ rotation struggles and reliance on inconsistent veteran arms. In contrast, Brad Keller — a more seasoned but less dynamic option — has been viewed as a stopgap rather than a long-term solution, further fueling criticism of the move.
Social media was immediately flooded with reactions from Cubs fans, many of whom accused the front office of making a regressive decision. “This feels like giving up,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Let the kid develop at the big-league level, not in Iowa.”
Meanwhile, the Cubs also made headlines by demoting rookie third baseman Matt Shaw, another top prospect who had begun the season with the big-league club. Shaw, who showed promise both at the plate and defensively, was sent down to refine his approach and reset mentally after a recent slump. In a media session following the moves, President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer addressed the decisions, assuring fans that Shaw’s demotion is temporary.
“Matt’s going to be a big part of our future — that hasn’t changed,” Hoyer said. “We expect him back with the major league club within the next few weeks, once he’s gotten the reps he needs.”
As the Cubs juggle player development and competitiveness, fans are watching closely to see if these moves will pay off — or push the team further away from postseason contention.