Quinn Harris/Getty
Around this time last year, reliever Porter Hodge was working on refining his throwing routine, integrating things such as balance drills into catch play. He didn’t know it then, but the offseason would set him up for a wildly successful rookie season.
His 1.88 ERA in 2024 was the best of any Cubs pitcher who made more than two appearances. And he put up those numbers in high-leverage situations, collecting nine saves.
“Just staying true to myself and staying true to my work ethic,” Hodge said in August when asked about the key to his growth.