Cade Horton, Cubs Battle for Series Win, Defeat Marlins 2-1 in Finale

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net  |  By Ron Luce  |  Last updated May 21, 2025 6:27 PM ET

Although the series could've been wrapped up by Tuesday, the Chicago Cubs still had an opportunity to take a series in Miami. Although Monday's late collapse stung, the team rallied and smoked the Miami Marlins 14-1 on Tuesday. With a quick turnaround on Wednesday, Cade Horton pitched brilliantly in his third MLB outing, helping the Cubs finish off a narrow 2-1 victory in south beach. 

The Cubs struck early in Wednesday's win, with Kyle Tucker blasting his 12th home run of the season and second in as many games for the 1-0 lead. It appears Tucker is getting back on track after a rough slump earlier in the month of May. 

Kyle Tucker! 2 homers, 2 days! pic.twitter.com/eWwieo5vQx

— Cubs On Tap (@CubbiesOnTap) May 21, 2025

However, the lead didn't last for long. Miami scraped together a run in the bottom of the first, but a good battle from Cade Horton and spectacular play from Nico Hoerner ended the threat with the score tied at one. 

Nico “Gold Glove” Hoerner pic.twitter.com/NH6Tvh7HT3

— Cubs On Tap (@CubbiesOnTap) May 21, 2025

After the first inning, both Max Meyer and Horton settled in. Both sides had a fair amount of baserunners, but the pitching and defense held strong. Overall, both youngsters were very good. Meyer went 6.0 innings, allowing just five hits, one run, and one walk while striking out four. 

As for Horton, he appeared to get better as the game went on. While battling with Kyle Stowers in the fifth inning, Horton threw a series of changeups that kept the slugger off balance, ultimately striking him out in embarrassing fashion. The Cubs' youngster seems to be finding his footing in the majors and will leave the front office with a tough decision when Shota Imanaga is healthy once again. 

For the afternoon, Horton pitched 5.1 innings, surrendering six hits and three walks. That said, only one run scored and Horton fanned three, all in the latter innings of his outing. 

The Cubs found a way to take the lead late. Matt Shaw, who recorded his third double in as many games since returning from Triple-A Iowa earlier in the game, walked to lead off the eighth inning. Shaw stole second, setting up a runner in scoring position. Following an Ian Happ flyout, Kyle Tucker ripped a single into left field. The ball got away from Kyle Stowers, allowing Shaw to score and Tucker to advance on the error. 

Cubs in front! pic.twitter.com/ik8qkQIwx0

— Cubs On Tap (@CubbiesOnTap) May 21, 2025

The Cubs failed to add another run following a Tucker steal of third base, and couldn't capitalize on a Michael Busch double to start off the ninth. However, Brad Keller and Daniel Palencia kept the Marlins off the board late and locked up a 2-1 win for the visiting Cubs. 

What's On Tap Next?

The Cubs are off on Thursday, but venture north to Cincinnati for a three-game set with the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ballpark over the weekend. Friday's first pitch is scheduled for 5:40 p.m. CT and will feature Matthew Boyd for the Cubs and Hunter Greene for the Reds.