What's Happening?
Cade Horton, a rookie right-hander for the Chicago Cubs, is anticipated to have a normal offseason after recovering from a right rib fracture. Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer revealed that
Horton would have been included in the National League Championship Series roster if the team had advanced. Despite missing the wild-card and National League Division Series rosters due to his injury, Horton has shown promising performance during the regular season, achieving a 2.67 ERA, 1.09 WHIP, and a 97:33 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 118 innings. His recovery marks a positive outlook for the Cubs as they plan for the upcoming season.
Why It's Important?
Horton's recovery is significant for the Cubs as they look to strengthen their pitching lineup for the next season. His impressive statistics during the regular season indicate his potential to be a key player in the Cubs' rotation. The ability to return to a normal offseason routine suggests that Horton can continue developing his skills without the setback of injury. This development is crucial for the Cubs' strategy in building a competitive team, especially after missing out on advancing further in the postseason. Horton's health and performance could impact the Cubs' decisions in player management and game strategy.
What's Next?
As Horton is expected to have a normal offseason, the Cubs will likely focus on integrating him back into their pitching rotation for the next season. The team may also consider additional training and conditioning to ensure his full recovery and readiness. Horton's performance in the upcoming season will be closely monitored, as it could influence the Cubs' overall strategy and potential trades or acquisitions. The Cubs' management will need to assess Horton's progress and make decisions that align with their long-term goals for the team.