Entering the 2023 MLB season, Cubs pitcher Cade Horton is making headlines not just for his performance but also for his unique journey as a two-sport athlete. With a record of 7-4, 70 strikeouts, a 3.08 ERA, and a 1.20 WHIP over 87⅔ innings, Horton’s first year as a major leaguer has also drawn interest due to the path that led him to the mound instead of the gridiron. This article delves into Horton’s dual-sport aspirations and the notable challenges he faced along the way.
### The Dual-Sport Dream
From an early age, Cade Horton exhibited a remarkable talent in both football and baseball. As a senior at Norman High School in Oklahoma, his athletic prowess was evident—throwing for over 3,000 yards, rushing for 1,100 yards, and scoring 41 touchdowns in just one season. His success made him a coveted quarterback prospect, and the idea of playing both football and baseball at the collegiate level excited him. In interviews during his senior year, Horton expressed a genuine love for football, describing it as “the best time of the year.”
Despite the allure of football, Horton’s background was not solely focused on the gridiron; he was also a promising baseball player, catching the eye of MLB scouts. The challenge of balancing two sports did not deter him—he attended the majority of summer football workouts while also participating in multiple national baseball showcases.
### The Physical Toll and Mechanics
The debate over whether an athlete can successfully excel in two sports is a persistent one, particularly in cases like Horton’s, where the physical demands of the two sports can differ significantly. Many coaches argue against the dual pursuit, claiming that the mechanics required for throwing a football and pitching a baseball are fundamentally different and can lead to fatigue or injury.
Horton, however, believes otherwise. “I don’t feel like it ever affected me,” he stated, suggesting that the skills in both sports could potentially complement each other. He believes that playing football may even make his arm stronger for baseball—a perspective that highlights the complexities of an athlete’s physical development.
### The Turning Point
Horton’s commitment to football continued when he enrolled at the University of Oklahoma. During the fall of 2020, he practiced with the football team but quickly realized that he was not receiving the necessary reps to further his skill set. This sparked a critical decision: after just one game, he chose to focus solely on baseball.
That decision proved pivotal. Shortly after, Horton underwent Tommy John surgery, sideling him for the majority of his freshman season. While it was a setback, it also served as a period of reflection for Horton, allowing him to train and concentrate on becoming the best pitcher he could be.
In the spring of 2022, Horton made a significant impact in the College World Series, attracting the attention of MLB scouts, including the Chicago Cubs. His success at that stage confirmed his decision to focus on baseball, and he was ultimately drafted by the Cubs in the first round.
### Current Performance and Team’s Expectations
Today, Horton is thriving in his professional career. With strong stats and a pivotal role in the Cubs’ rotation, the franchise has certainly benefited from his decision to focus solely on baseball. The organization likely appreciates the competitive spirit and resilience he cultivated as a dual-sport athlete, characteristics that now manifest on the mound.
As he prepares for games against tough opponents, Horton’s journey serves as an inspiration not only to young athletes but also to anyone balancing multiple ambitions. He often emphasizes the mental and physical toughness that comes from competing at high levels in different sports, underscoring the transferable skills that athletes from diverse backgrounds can bring to their primary sport.
### Looking Ahead
As the MLB season progresses, one can’t help but wonder about the alternate universe where Horton is donning a football uniform rather than a baseball cap. Imagining him as a quarterback throwing passes and leading a football team is tempting. Yet, Horton remains focused on his current path and has demonstrated the ability to adapt and excel in intense environments, both on the football field in high school and on the baseball diamond in the major leagues.
His story is a testament to the balancing act that many young athletes grapple with—making choices in pursuit of their dreams while navigating the complexities of competitive sports. It illuminates the importance of following one’s passion and recognizing when it’s essential to pivot for the sake of long-term success.
In conclusion, Cade Horton’s journey highlights the intricacies of being a dual-sport athlete in a world that often demands specialization from its young stars. His experience resonates with aspiring athletes everywhere, serving as a reminder that while the road may be challenging, determination, flexibility, and a focus on one’s strengths can pave the way to success. The Cubs are reaping the benefits of his choices, and baseball fans look forward to witnessing how Horton continues to evolve in his professional career.
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