Cade Horton Dominates Guardians in Impressive Spring Training Performance

GOODYEAR, Ariz. – Chicago Cubs right-hander Cade Horton delivered a stellar performance against the Cleveland Guardians on Monday night, showcasing the skills that made him one of baseball’s most exciting arms last season. In a 5-2 Cactus League victory for the North Siders, Horton commanded the strike zone, utilized a diverse pitch repertoire, and consistently baffled hitters.

With the regular season just 10 days away, this outing was a crucial step for Horton as he fine-tunes his game. “I felt like tonight I put it all together,” Horton stated, reflecting on a performance that left a strong impression.

A Strikeout Masterclass

Facing a Guardians lineup featuring seasoned Major League players, the 24-year-old Horton completed five innings with an impressive stat line: 10 strikeouts, just one walk, and one run allowed on three hits. Remarkably, Horton generated a staggering 21 whiffs – the highest single-game total for any pitcher in Spring Training this year. Interestingly, Cleveland starter Gavin Williams also recorded 21 whiffs against a lighter Cubs lineup.

Changeup Key to Success

Horton’s success was largely attributed to his effective use of the changeup. He generated 11 swinging strikes with the pitch, a focal point of his work leading up to the game. “Last week, I made it a point to work on it in my bullpen,” Horton explained. “And then I wanted to see it come to fruition today, and I did that. Fortunate to have such a left-handed lineup today to be able to throw it as much as I did.” He increased his changeup usage to 28% against the Guardians, a significant jump from the 12.8% rate he employed during his rookie season.

Pitch Mix and Velocity

Horton’s pitch mix included 35 four-seam fastballs (averaging 95.9 mph with a peak of 98.6 mph), 20 changeups, eight sweepers, eight curveballs, and one sinker. The overall result was an exceptional 51% whiff rate on 41 total swings. However, Horton emphasized the importance of sequencing over simply chasing strikeouts. “We did a really good job of sequencing,” he said. “I’m not up there chasing whiff. I’m just up there executing pitches.”

Bouncing Back from a Rough Outing

This dominant performance came after a challenging outing against the Rangers on Tuesday, where he allowed six runs in 3 2/3 innings. Horton approached the setback with a veteran’s mindset, focusing on the process rather than the results. He expressed pride in his ability to bounce back. “It feels really good,” Horton said. “Last week, I got hit around a little bit. But I feel like I put a good work week together. And so, to see the work I put in the middle of the week to today, I feel like it’s really cool to see what you’re working [show up for] you in the game.”

Looking Ahead to the Season

Horton’s 2023 season was a breakout year, going 11-4 with a 2.67 ERA, 97 strikeouts, and 33 walks in 118 innings, despite workload management. He excelled after the All-Star break, posting a 1.03 ERA and finishing as a runner-up for the National League Rookie of the Year Award.

While he was a strong candidate for the Opening Day start, the Cubs have chosen veteran Matthew Boyd for that honor. Horton expressed his excitement and support for Boyd, praising his character and leadership. “I’m so excited for him,” Horton said. “There’s nobody more deserving than him… He just really does put the organization above himself. I think it’s really cool to watch him and just be able to share a clubhouse with him.” Horton is currently slated to start the second game of the season on March 28 against the Nationals at Wrigley Field.

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