Cubs Talk Podcast

In this edition of the Cubs Talk podcast, Leila Rahimi and James Neveau discuss the offensively challenged Cubs after a painful week against the Pirates and Braves. Cody Bellinger, Ian Happ and Michael Busch are all under the microscope as Craig Counsell's lineup faces scrutiny, but are the team's struggles reversible like they were in May 2023? The duo also discusses Kyle Hendricks' demotion to the bullpen, but ends the show on a positive note as they examine whether or no the Dunkin-loving Shota Imanaga should be the frontrunner for the National League Cy Young Award. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of the Cubs Talk Podcast, Leila Rahimi and Peter Marzano dive into the Cubs' injury woes, highlighting their impact on the team's performance. From Dansby Swanson's placement on the injured list to the importance of depth in navigating a challenging season, they explore the team's struggles and potential moves to be made upon players' return (4:00). Additionally, they review the Cubs vs. Braves series, discussing its significance as a measuring stick for the team (18:09). They also discuss Jed Hoyer's perspective on evaluating team performance beyond one-run games (27:00) and analyze the wins and positives for the Cubs amidst their challenges this season (28:25). See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's episode of the Cubs Talk podcast, Leila Rahimi and James Neveau try to figure out what to think of the team after a homestand of mixed results. They praise the team's dominant starting pitching, but also ask questions about the struggles of players like Ian Happ and Dansby Swanson. The duo also talks about the improving health of the Cubs, with Cody Bellinger and Seiya Suzuki aiming to make an impact, but they also heap praise upon Shota Imanaga and Javier Assad, and discuss how their incredible performances have provided a firewall as the Cubs look to address issues with their lineup and bullpen. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Cubs split a riveting four-game series in New York against the Mets that exposed some of the team's most notable strengths and weaknesses. Peter Marzano and Leila Rahimi recap four games in the Big Apple while breaking down struggles within the Cubs bullpen. Leila and Peter then discuss how the Cubs can use more out of Dansby Swanson amid recent injury woes before getting into an historic start to the season for Shota Imanaga ahead of a pivotal series against the Milwaukee Brewers. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Peter Marzano and Nate Poppen talk recent roster moves that include Kyle Hendricks heading to the injured list and a callup of first base prospect Matt Mervis as the Cubs wrap up their homestand, while discussing Hendricks' potential role on the team once he returns. The guys then discuss which players have caught their eyes with the hot and cold starts before breaking down the Cubs' upcoming schedule and how the team can best position themselves in the NL Central before taking on the Milwaukee Brewers early next month. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Cubs are back home, and James Neveau and Peter Marzano are breaking down their recent West Coast road trip. Series victories over Seattle and Arizona are broken down, as is the performance of the team's starting rotation and bullpen amid a series of injury concerns (1:15). The guys then discuss the latest on Kyle Hendricks' poor start to the year, and debate how much wiggle room the veteran hurler has (10:00). Injury woes mount as Seiya Suzuki hits the IL, but which Cubs injury poses the biggest issue to the team (20:04)? Finally, Peter and James break down Michael Busch's strong April, and whether he can continue his hot hitting (28:30). See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's Cubs Talk podcast, James Neveau and Peter Marzano discuss the team's 5-1 homestand, with big wins over the Rockies and Dodgers (1:00). They evaluate the team's plate approach so far this season, and heap praise on Michael Busch, Seiya Suzuki and other contributors (4:00). The guys also discuss Shota Imanaga's first two starts, and how the team's pitching has been a key to their success (11:00). Injuries are still impacting the Cubs, with updates on Patrick Wisdom, Julian Merryweather and Jameson Taillon emerging this weekend (16:00). Finally, the guys talk about Shane Bieber and Spencer Strider's injuries, and how the Cubs should approach their pitching development amid an uptick in injuries to pitchers (19:40). See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On a special edition of Cubs Talk, Leila Rahimi and James Neveau are live from Wrigley Field ahead of Opening Day. They discuss the Cubs' rotation after Justin Steele's injury, and break down the opening series against the Rangers. They also discuss Shota Imanaga's debut, Christopher Morel's hot start and the opening homestand against the Rockies and Dodgers. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The wait is over! Dive into the ultimate breakdown of the 2024 Cubs season with the Cubs Talk Podcast! Join James Neveau and Peter Marzano as they dissect every aspect of the team's potential triumph. From pitching prowess to batting brilliance, they leave no base untouched (2:30). Expect heated debates on strategic decisions and potential game-changers (15:37), plus bold predictions on homerun kings and divisional domination (20:45). See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On today's Cubs Talk podcast, James Neveau and Nate Poppen react to Craig Counsell's decision to include Jordan Wicks and Javier Assad in the team's Opening Day rotation. They set their expectations for both hurlers and share insight on why Assad nabbed the last job over Drew Smyly. The guys also discuss Shota Imanaga amid a strikeout-filled spring, and give their take on what they expect him to produce in his first Major League season. James and Nate also chat about Seiya Suzuki's hot spring and whether he can carry that into the season, and finally talk about the startling news surrounding Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On today's Cubs Talk podcast, Leila Rahimi and James Neveau talk to Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune about all the latest happenings in Mesa. Meghan breaks down the latest injury news on Jameson Taillon (4:53), and evaluates the Cubs' options as they look to put together their 2024 rotation (13:18). Later, the crew discusses which players have stood out this spring, including the role Michael Busch could play on the squad and where he fits into the Cubs' lineup. Finally, Craig Counsell takes center stage, as Meghan reveals insight into his approach to managing, and why he may be just what the Cubs need to take steps forward in the new campaign (20:30). See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Leila Rahimi and James Neveau discuss Cody Bellinger's debut, Cubs prospects and a David Bote sighting.

On a new Cubs Talk Podcast, Leila Rahimi, Peter Marzano and Nate Poppen discuss the implications of Cody Bellinger's signing with the Cubs and how the deal got done (1:09). Later, they discuss Jed Hoyer's relationship with Scott Boras and his clients and how players' relationships with the teams are continuing to decline (7:26). Finally, the trio discusses the Cubs' bullpen and the need for a left-hander (17:00). See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

James and Peter break down Cody Bellinger's new three-year deal with the Cubs

Leila, James and Peter discuss Tom Ricketts' media availability at spring training.

Mike Berman of NBC 5 Chicago from Cubs Spring Training joins the podcasts to break down the opening week of Spring Training.

In today's Cubs Talk podcast, James Neveau and Peter Marzano discuss Baseball Prospectus' PECOTA projections for the 2024 Cubs. Do they buy the Cubs as an 80-win team, and are they really second-best behind the Cardinals in the National League Central? Should Shota Imanaga and Hector Neris give them more of a boost? They discuss those questions, and also evaluate whether it's time to throw a bag of money at Cody Bellinger ahead of spring training, with the center fielder still on the market. Finally, the guys pick their favorite Cubs promo items of the year, as Pat Hughes and Christopher Morel both are immortalized in some unique ways. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Leila, Nate and Peter discuss the most recent free agent signings

On a post-convention edition of the Cubs Talk Podcast, Leila Rahimi, Peter Marzano and James Neveau welcome Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times to talk about the North Siders. Cody Bellinger's future is first up to bat, with Shota Imanaga's pitch arsenal and potential adjustments to big league life next up. The group discusses the ongoing trade flirtations between the Guardians and Cubs over Emmanuel Clase, and then dives into how Craig Counsell will run the ship now that he's in the Chicago dugout. Finally, Pete Crow-Armstrong takes center stage, with Maddie breaking down his place on the roster pending the Bellinger decision, and how he's approaching his 2024 season. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Leila, James and Nates discuss the Cubs reportedly signing pitcher Shōta Imanaga

Leila, James and Peter talk about the lack of action for the Cubs

Leila, James and Peter discuss the Cubs' quiet offseason

Leila, Peter, Nate and James discuss the Cubs quiet offseason

James, Peter and Nate react to the Shohei Ohtani signing with the Dodgers, what the Cubs priorities should be and more

Leila and James break down everything that happened at the Winter Meetings.

James and Peter look back at their favorite moments of the Cubs' 2023 season

Leila, Nate and James discuss the latest free agent and trade rumors ahead of the Winter Meetings

Leila and Peter recap Craig Counsell's introductory press conference

Leila, James and Nate discuss Brewers' ownership comments about Craig Counsell signing with the Cubs and share their free agency wish lists

James and Peter discuss the firing of David Ross and the hiring of Craig Counsell

Leila and James discuss the return of John Mallee and upcoming free agents

Leila, James, Nate and Peter are back to discuss MLB playoffs, Kyle Hendricks' possible extension, and more

Leila, Nate and Peter talk about Gold Glove nominations, Craig Breslow interview for the Red Sox GM position and more

James, Pete and Nate discuss the Cubs players eligible for arbitration and MLB playoffs

The Cubs Talk crew discusses the Cubs missing the playoffs, Jed Hoyer's comments on the year, and the reports that the Cubs are interested in slugger Pete Alonso.

Cubs Talk pod discusses if the Cubs will make the playoffs and if they do who would you want them to play?

Leila and James discuss the Cubs' three-game series against the Diamondbacks, their playoff push and David Ross' job security.

The Cubs Talk crew discusses the race to the playoffs with 15 games left, Pete Crow-Armstrong's debut, and Justin Steele's chances at the Cy Young Award.

Pete Crow-Armstrong joins the Cubs for the final push to the playoffs

The Cubs Talk crew discusses Cody Bellinger's stock rising, the playoff chase, the stability of the pitching rotation and Anthony Rizzo shutting himself down after talking with David Ross.

The Cubs enter September on a hot streak and in control of their wild card destiny. How could it play out?

James, Nate and Peter discuss the Cubs' playoff chances, Drew Smyly's struggles and how the Cubs' pursuit of Shohei Ohtani could impact Cody Bellinger.

Leila, Peter and James break down the CrossTown Classic, Marcus Stroman’s injury and Pete Crow-Armstrong's progress in the minor league.

The Cubs Talk crew discusses the road ahead for the Cubs as they try to make a playoff push.

The Cubs look pretty good after the trade deadline. Did Jed Hoyer reinvigorate the Cubs' fanbase? Leila and Nate discuss.

The Cubs Talk crew breaks down the Willson Contreras/Cardinals scuffle, the Crosstown series win and have the Cubs done enough for Jed Hoyer to be a buyer before the trade deadline.

Leila, James and Nate discuss the struggling Cubs, and why the "buyer or seller" question doesn't go far enough.

The Cubs talk crew discusses if the Cubs need to be buyers or sellers at the deadline and their expectations for the team in the second half of the season.

The Cubs Talk crew discusses why the Brewers' series is season-defining, the team's mounting injuries and whether the front office is justified in not re-signing Marcus Stroman.

Leila, Nate and James discuss if the Cubs should be buyers or sellers at the trade deadline this year.

Leila and James discusses the heater the Cubs are on headed into their trip to London and they talk about if Marcus Stroman’s nemesis MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred prevent him from starting in the All-Star Game

The Cubs Talk crew breaks down the return of Cody Bellinger, the Cubs not engaging in extension talks with Marcus Stroman and other trade deadline rumors the Cubs are in.

NBC Chicago's Peter Marzano joins Leila and Nate to discuss the Cubs' recent offensive woes, Kyle Hendricks' start to the season and if they should keep Cody Bellinger

Marcus Stroman is dominating, but will he be a key piece in the Cubs' rebuild or just a trade asset at the deadline?

Leila, Nate and James are back to break down Christopher Morel's historic start at the plate

Luis Medina of Bleacher Nation joins the show to discuss what’s been plaguing the Cubs recently and how they can get back to winning games.

The Cubs are losing close games and continue to slide in the standings. Is this what fans can expect for the rest of the season, or can they get back on track?

The Cubs Talk crew breaks down the success first month of the season, why the pitching staff is performing so well and when will Christopher Morel and Matt Mervis be brought up.

Are the Cubs good enough to make a push for the playoffs?

Leila, Nate and James discuss if the way the Cubs are playing is sustainable and former Cubs manager Joe Maddon's comments about his Cubs team.

The crew discusses the injury updates for Kyle Hendricks and Seiya Suzuki, the rumors around the Cubs and Shohei Ohtani, should Marcus Stroman be re-signed now and the new lights in Wrigley Field.

What was your reaction to the new look Cubs? Nate Poppen and James Neveau discuss the first few games of the season and the impact of MLB's new rules.

Leila, James and Nate break down Nico Hoerner extension and what it means for Ian Happ future with the Cubs. Later, they preview the 2023 season.

The Cubs Talk crew discusses the WBC championship game, who should make the final Cubs roster and ESPN's top 100 MLB players with only one Cub on the list.

Leila Rahimi and James Neveau break down the World Baseball Classic from the Cubs angle and discuss why fans should be optimistic about the Cubs.

James Neveau and Nate Poppen discuss the World Baseball Classic, Dansby Swanson's impact on the Cubs, and the latest spring training news

Nate Poppen, Leila Rahimi and James Neveau break down the Seiya Suzuki injury and who should be the 5th starter in the pitching rotation.

The Cubs Talk crew breaks down the Cubs budget for this year, the Cubs adding another 3rd baseman and if the Cubs should make a move for Manny Machado or Shohei Otani.

The Cubs Talk crew discuss Jed Hoyer’s comments in Arizona and the new MLB rules.

The Cubs Talk crew discuss when Pete Crow-Armstrong will join the big league roster, big storylines heading into spring training and what realignment would look like in Chicago.

The Cubs talk crew discusses the Cubs folk hero Dexter Fowler’s retirement, react to Jed Hoyer’s comments about the championship Cubs, and grading the Cubs’ offseason so far.

The Cubs Talk crew discusses how new Cubs Trey Mancini fits with the roster, what will be Kyle Hendricks' role as he gets healthier and will the Cubs trade Nick Madrigal.

The new Cubs Talk Podcast team breaks down the Cubs convention and discuss what's next for the Cubs offseason.

NBC 5's Leila Rahimi goes 1-on-1 with the owner of the Cubs Tom Ricketts.

Tim Stebbins and James Neveau break down the Cubs' addition of first baseman Eric Hosmer.

Tim Stebbins and James Neveau discuss some of the way-too-early Cubs questions for the upcoming season.

In the final episode for Gordon Wittenmyer and David Kaplan, the Cubs Talk crew discusses the 2022 year for the Cubs and looks ahead to 2023.

The Cubs Talk crew breaks down Carlos Correa’s free agency, which college bowl game the Cubs would be in and what's next for the Cubs this offseason.

David Kaplan, Gordon Wittenmyer and Tim Stebbins discuss the latest Cubs' signings and what other moves they need to make.

Gordon Wittenmyer, Tim Stebbins and David Kaplan discuss Cody Bellinger's introductory press conference and whether Carlos Correa will be a free agent again after an issue with his physical.

David Kaplan, Gordon Wittenmyer and Tim Stebbins discuss the Cubs landing All-Star shortstop Dansby Swanson.

The Cubs miss out on star shortstop Carlos Correa. What are they doing this offseason?

As the Cubs still look to make a big splash in free agency, did ownership put Jed Hoyer in a bad spot to attract free agents? Let the debate BEGIN!

Kap, Gordon and Tim discuss the Cardinals signing Willson Contreras and where the Cubs stand as the Winter Meetings wrap up.

Cubs sign a former MVP in Cody Bellinger. How can he help the Cubs?

David Kaplan, Gordon Wittenmyer and Tim Stebbins break down day 1 of the Winter Meetings and how the Trea Turner deal will impact free agency.

Tim, Gordon and Kap preview this year's Winter Meetings and what might be the plan for the Cubs.

Kap, Gordon, and Tim discuss MLB free agency and the predictions that came true.

Tim Stebbins and Gordon Wittenmyer do a special Thanksgiving edition of the podcast giving out the double bird awards for the 2022 season.

ESPN’s Jesse Rogers joins Tim and Gordon to discuss the Cubs’ offseason, where Willson Contreras will end up and more.

Kap, Tim, and Gordon break down the void Willson Contreras is leaving and how will the Cubs fix it.

The Cubs Talk crew breaks down Willson Contreras rejecting the Cubs' qualifying offer to likely close the book on his Cubs tenure. How will you remember the Contreras era?

Kap, Gordon and Tim discuss the top 10 MLB free agents and predict where they will end up this offseason.

David Kaplan, Gordon Wittenmyer and Tim Stebbins break down the latest news from MLB GM Meetings

Ian Happ becomes a Gold Glove player for his play this season, Kap, Gordon and Tim discuss will the Cubs be able to keep Happ before he's a free agent.

Kap, Gordon and Tim discuss the recent injuries to the Cubs top outfield prospects Alexander Canario and Brennen Davis and what it could mean for 2023.

Kap, Gordon and Tim discuss what they expect from the Cubs in 2023.

David Kaplan, Gordon Wittenmyer and Tim Stebbins discuss contract projections for some of the top free agents and whether the Cubs should make those deals.

Joe Maddon joins David Kaplan, Gordon Wittenmyer and Tim Stebbins to discuss 2016, managing again, his new book and a whole lot more.