Cubs Secure 6-1 Victory Over Braves; Horton's Dominance Continues
The Chicago Cubs defeated the Atlanta Braves 6-1 on Tuesday night, September 9, 2025, fueled by a strong performance from rookie pitcher Cade Horton and timely hitting. Horton pitched 6 1/3 innings, allowing only one run, while Pete Crow-Armstrong drove in two runs to lead the Cubs' offense.
Horton's Stellar Outing
Cade Horton (10-4), a leading candidate for National League Rookie of the Year, showcased his talent, allowing just one run on four hits without issuing a walk. His ERA now stands at 2.70, the best among NL rookies, and his 10 wins also lead all National League rookies. Horton has emerged as a potential Game 1 playoff starter for the Cubs.
Since the All-Star break, Horton has been nearly unhittable, surrendering only five runs in 53 1/3 innings, boasting a remarkable 0.84 ERA. In his last two starts, both against the Braves, he allowed only one run and four hits in 11 1/3 innings.
Offensive Contributions
Pete Crow-Armstrong had a significant impact, going 1-for-2 with a walk, a hit-by-pitch, and two stolen bases. He drove in Michael Busch with a sacrifice fly in the first inning and later singled to score Ian Happ in the third. Matt Shaw delivered a crucial two-run single during the Cubs' four-run eighth inning.
Ian Happ contributed with a 2-for-5 performance, including a double and a run scored. The Cubs capitalized on opportunities in the eighth inning, with Dansby Swanson drawing a bases-loaded walk before Shaw's pivotal single off Connor Seabold.
Key Moments and Stats
Shaw's bases-loaded single with two outs in the eighth inning proved to be the turning point, breaking the game open for the Cubs. Nico Hoerner and Willi Castro scored on the hit, and Swanson came home on a fielding error by Nacho Alvarez Jr., extending the Cubs' lead to 6-1.
Ronald Acuña Jr. scored the lone run for the Braves, driven in by an RBI single from Jurickson Profar. Braves starter Spencer Strider (5-13) struggled, giving up two runs on six hits while striking out eight.
Horton's Mindset and Development
Cade Horton has displayed remarkable self-awareness and a strong competitive drive. After a challenging outing earlier in the season, he focused on trusting his abilities and attacking hitters without fear of the results. This approach has contributed to his success and cemented his status as a National League Rookie of the Year contender.
"I just really started to trust my stuff, and attack and not be afraid of the results. The results, at the end of the day, will be what they are. It’s just staying in the process and continuing to get better, no matter what happens every week." - Cade Horton
Looking Ahead
The Braves will look to bounce back in the finale of the three-game series, with Chris Sale (5-4, 2.38 ERA) scheduled to start. The Cubs have not yet announced their starting pitcher. The game promises to be an exciting conclusion to the series as the Cubs build towards the playoffs, with Cade Horton’s stock rising.
