Cade Horton in Doubt for Wild Card Series
Chicago — The Chicago Cubs are assessing the severity of pitcher Cade Horton’s back injury, which puts his participation in the National League wild card playoff series in doubt. Manager Craig Counsell indicated that, for the moment, Horton “is still on track”, although an MRI performed on Wednesday revealed “some areas of concern” in the ribs.“Right now, Cade is ready,” Counsell assured, adding that Horton is “determined to throw.”
Craig Counsell, Cubs ManagerAnother doctor is expected to review the images. Horton is scheduled to resume pitching on Friday, after two days of rest. Counsell explained that the team will make an informed decision: “We want to make sure we use this time for Cade to tell us how he feels, to show us how he feels, consult our doctors and let them make recommendations to make the best possible decision.” The Cubs will face the San Diego Padres in Game 1 of the National League Wild Card Series on Tuesday. The Cubs’ magic number to secure the first wild card spot, and home-field advantage in the first round, was two over the Padres before Thursday’s game against the New York Mets. Horton holds an 11-4 record in 22 starts and 23 appearances. The 24-year-old right-hander has an ERA of 2.67, which ranks second among qualified rookies. Horton left his Tuesday start against New York after three innings due to back stiffness. He had been sick after his previous start and had been coughing, which caused the problems in his back and ribs. Counsell said the Cubs will not announce their postseason rotation until next week. “We’re at this phase where we’re starting to establish plans,” Counsell said. “We have several. We have four baseball games left, which affects things.”
