CHICAGO – The buzz in the dugout was palpable. Through five dominant innings, Cubs rookie right-hander Cade Horton had the Atlanta Braves’ potent lineup flummoxed, not allowing a single hit. The no-hitter was very much alive, and the Wrigley faithful were on their feet with every out. Then came the hard stop. Manager Craig Counsell, known for his meticulous pitching management, emerged from the dugout, signaling the end of Horton’s masterful outing.
For many young pitchers, being pulled with a no-hitter in progress would be a bitter pill to swallow. But Horton, mature beyond his years, understood the bigger picture. “I knew going into it that there was going to be a pitch count and a hard stop,” Horton said after the game. “My job is to go out there and execute for as long as I can, and I felt like I did that.”
Indeed, he did. Horton’s fastball, touching the high 90s, was lively, and his slider kept Braves hitters off balance. He carved through the lineup, mixing his pitches effectively and showing the poise of a seasoned veteran. His final line: 5.0 innings, 0 hits, 0 runs, 2 walks, and 6 strikeouts. A truly impressive performance against one of the league’s top offenses.
Counsell’s decision, while perhaps frustrating for fans hoping to witness history, was rooted in caution and long-term planning for the promising rookie. Horton is still building up his innings count, and the organization is committed to protecting his arm. “Cade was outstanding,” Counsell acknowledged. “It’s tough to take him out there, but we have a plan for him, and we’re sticking to it. His health and development are paramount.”
The bullpen, tasked with preserving the no-hit bid, ultimately surrendered a hit in the sixth inning, ending the suspense. However, the focus remained on Horton’s stellar effort and his professional approach to the situation.
“It’s a team game,” Horton added. “My goal is to give us a chance to win, and I felt like I did that today. Hopefully, there will be more opportunities for no-hitters down the road.”
Horton’s performance serves notice that the Cubs have a legitimate talent on their hands. While the no-hitter eluded him on this occasion, his five no-hit innings against a formidable opponent highlight his immense potential and the bright future ahead for the young right-hander and the Cubs.
