Cubs' Cade Horton spins a gem in season opener

Cade Horton, healthy after a late-2025 rib injury, allowed two runs over 6 1/3 innings as the Chicago Cubs beat the Washington Nationals 10-2; he finished the outing with 75 pitches.

Cade Horton returned to the mound for the Chicago Cubs and delivered a strong start as the team beat the Washington Nationals 10-2. Horton was healthy after a broken rib ended his 2025 season early and had been the Rookie of the Year runner-up last year. The Cubs limited his workload late last season to protect his long-term health. Saturday's outing recalled the late-2025 form that made him a key piece of the rotation. Game details: - Horton worked 6 1/3 innings, allowing two runs on four hits while striking out four and walking one. - He threw exactly 75 pitches and used five different offerings, leaning on a four-seamer that averaged 95.4 mph and topped out at 96.9 mph. - The Cubs scored four runs in the sixth inning and won 10-2; Ian Happ hit a three-run homer in the game. - Manager Craig Counsell briefly allowed Horton to start the seventh, with Horton recording one out and throwing three pitches before being removed. - The team intentionally managed Horton's innings last season, frequently keeping him near 75 pitches to protect his health. Summary: Horton's outing reinforced the approach he showed late last season, combining strike-throwing and a varied pitch mix while relying on strong defensive support. The Cubs said he will take the ball every fifth day and the club expects to continue monitoring his workload. The broader impact is that Horton is positioned to be a regular part of the rotation as the season progresses.