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The Cubs pulled rookie Cade Horton three innings into his start against the Mets on Tuesday because his back was tightening up, the team announced.
The Cubs framed the move as precautionary. Horton, who allowed one run Tuesday, has been the Cubs’ best starter in the second half, even on a pitch limit. He was poised to play a major role in their postseason run.
On Tuesday, Horton surrendered a leadoff home run to Francisco Lindor, followed by a single by Juan Soto. Then he retired the next nine batters he faced, before exiting the game.