What's Happening?
Cade Horton, a rookie right-hander for the Chicago Cubs, is anticipated to have a normal offseason following a rib injury that kept him off the NLCS roster. Horton suffered a right rib fracture during
his final regular-season start, which led to his absence from the wild-card and NLDS rosters. Despite this setback, Horton has shown promising performance with a 2.67 ERA, 1.09 WHIP, and a 97:33 K:BB ratio over 118 innings in the regular season. Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer confirmed Horton's potential inclusion in the NLCS roster if the team had advanced, indicating his recovery progress.
Why It's Important?
Horton's recovery and expected normal offseason are crucial for the Cubs as they look to strengthen their pitching lineup for the upcoming season. His impressive stats during the regular season highlight his potential as a key player for the team. The Cubs' ability to rely on Horton could significantly impact their performance in future games, especially given the competitive nature of Major League Baseball. His return to form could bolster the Cubs' pitching staff, providing them with a reliable option in their rotation.
What's Next?
As Horton prepares for a normal offseason, the Cubs will likely focus on his rehabilitation and conditioning to ensure he is ready for the next season. The team's management will monitor his progress closely, aiming to integrate him back into the roster effectively. Horton's recovery will be pivotal in shaping the Cubs' strategy and roster decisions as they plan for the upcoming season.
