Usually, I like to use this space to celebrate a great game from a top Cubs prospect, but sometimes, it’s important to note when the other thing happens.
Last night, Cade Horton had his very first really bad start. He lasted just 3.0 innings, allowed 6 earned runs on 5 hits (2 homers) and 4 walks, striking out 5.
The big blow was a grand slam by a dude who is on fire, and you can see where the pitch missed:
It was a rough go for Horton all around, who has otherwise cruised in almost all of his professional starts. He appears to be finding Triple-A a little more challenging.
Ultimately, I agree with Greg’s conclusion that this is more likely than not to be a beneficial experience for Horton’s development:
Sure, you’d love it if every Cubs prospect dominated at every level and then just kept on dominated into the big leagues and on to the Hall of Fame. But that more or less doesn’t happen for ANY player. And the more they can learn in a safe environment about how to make adjustments, how to deal with struggles, and how to compete against different kinds of players, the better.
If you put in the work, the talent will win out in the end. I have no doubt Cade Horton will put in the work, and will get some value out of this game.