Cade Horton shines as Cubs’ rookie ace with eyes on team success
Cade Horton, the Chicago Cubs’ promising young pitcher, has been capturing attention this season, and his latest performance only adds to the narrative. On Tuesday night against the formidable Atlanta Braves, Horton showcased his skills with a stellar outing, throwing 6.1 innings of one-run ball. He allowed just four hits and struck out two, further solidifying his status as a rising star.
With this performance, Horton lowered his season ERA to an impressive 2.70, while his ERA after the All-Star break now stands at a minuscule 0.83. This remarkable second half has thrust him into the conversation for the National League Rookie of the Year award, a title that many observers believe he is well-deserving of.
Historic run fuels Rookie of the Year chatter
Horton’s recent success is nothing short of exceptional. Since the All-Star break, he has surrendered only four earned runs over 53.1 innings pitched, a statistic that undeniably strengthens his Rookie of the Year candidacy. However, Horton remains focused on the bigger picture, prioritizing team achievements over personal accolades.
“I’d rather win a World Series than win Rookie of the Year,” Horton expressed. “So, just continuing to block out that stuff and find ways to go out there on the fifth day and give our team a chance to win.” His mindset reflects a maturity beyond his years, emphasizing the importance of collective success over individual recognition.
Managerial caution with innings pitched
Despite his impressive performance, Horton faces a challenge in the Rookie of the Year race due to concerns over his innings pitched. As of Tuesday night, he reached the 110-inning mark for the season, a milestone closely monitored by manager Craig Counsell. The Cubs are taking a cautious approach with Horton, ensuring that they manage his workload effectively throughout the remainder of the season.
Cade Horton’s season in numbers
To put Horton’s achievements into perspective, here’s a snapshot of his season:
Games Started: 21
Innings Pitched: 110.0
ERA: 2.70
WHIP: 1.11
Strikeouts: 89
Walks: 32
His impressive statistics speak volumes, and the Cubs’ rookie ace continues to demonstrate why he is a key asset to the team. As the season progresses, the focus remains on team goals, with Horton’s individual accolades taking a backseat to the pursuit of a World Series championship.
