Chicago Cubs’ Cade Horton: Recovery and Anticipation of a Postseason Return
The Chicago Cubs and their fans continue to watch with bated breath as rookie sensation, Cade Horton, takes progressive strides in his recovery from a fractured rib. The MLB community first noticed Horton’s absence when the promising rookie was seen tossing a football at American Family Field in Milwaukee, indicating a positive sign of his improving health.
“I also threw a baseball,” Horton playfully revealed ahead of Game 2 of the National League Division Series against the Brewers. His playful demeanor and increasing physical activity signal a promising return to the pitching mound, much to the relief of the Cubs and their ardent supporters.
Overcoming Setbacks: Horton’s Injury and Recovery
The unfortunate injury to Horton, resulting in a right rib fracture, occurred at a crucial time, just before the playoffs, and landed the talented righty on the 15-day injured list. Despite the setback, Horton has been persistently pushing his tolerance levels, steadily increasing the intensity of his catch sessions in a bid to gauge his healing progress.
His dedication and progress led to Horton getting back on the mound for a light throwing session at Wrigley Field. Pitching coach Tommy Hottovy shared the hopeful news in Milwaukee, stating that Horton had gone through heavier throwing during Tuesday’s NLDS off-day workout without a hitch, and managed to throw 15 pitches off the mound.
Filling in the Gap: The Cubs’ Rotation Strategy
With Horton sidelined due to injury, the Cubs have had to rely on starters Matthew Boyd, Shota Imanaga, and Jameson Taillon in the postseason. Colin Rea, another talented righty, has been held in reserve in the bullpen and can step in behind this group if needed.
However, the potential return of Horton, though unlikely to bear the full load of a normal starter, could be a significant boost to the Cubs’ pitching strategy. Cubs’ manager, Craig Counsell, expressed optimism about Horton’s recovery, saying that every throwing session has been pain-free and seen increased intensity.
Looking Ahead: Horton’s Anticipated Return
Although Horton was technically eligible for activation ahead of a potential Game 5 in the NLDS, Counsell announced that the rookie would not return this round. In response, Horton expressed understanding of the decision and communicated his complete faith in the team’s capability.
Despite his absence, Horton’s contribution to the team this season has been phenomenal. He pitched his way into the NL Rookie of the Year conversation with an 11-4 record, a 2.67 ERA in 23 appearances, and 97 strikeouts against 33 walks in 118 innings. In the second half of the season, he led all MLB pitchers with a minimum of 50 innings with a 1.03 ERA.
The Road to Recovery: A Slow and Steady Process
The unfortunate rib injury flared up during Horton’s outing against the Mets on September 23, causing him trouble with breathing and discomfort between innings. An MRI exam revealed the rib fracture. Since then, Horton has been diligently working on his recovery, focusing on throwing and preparing for the next day’s workout.
“It’s just stacking good days,” Hottovy shared. “Right away when it happened, he’d feel good for a little while and feel terrible the next day. So now, he’s getting to a point where he’s starting to wake up and not feel anything.”
As Horton continues to recover, the MLB, the Chicago Cubs, and their fans eagerly await his return to the mound.