CHGO Chicago Cubs Podcast

From early camp takeaways to the biggest roster battles, Matt dives into what really matters as the Cubs ramp up for the 2026 season. How is the starting rotation shaping up? Who needs a strong spring? And what should fans realistically expect heading into Opening Day? Is this the spring where PCA takes another leap? What are the expectations for his bat, defense, and overall impact on the lineup? Matt analyzes how Crow-Armstrong fits into the Cubs’ long-term vision — and whether this is the year he becomes a true difference-maker. Plus, a deep look at the Cubs’ starting pitching. Is the ro...

On today’s episode of the CHGO Cubs Podcast, hosts Luke Stuckmeyer, Joey Christopoulos, and Justin Roman debate where Suzuki truly ranks among NL right fielders. After another strong stretch at the plate, has the Cubs star officially entered the elite tier? The guys dive into his power numbers, on-base ability, advanced metrics, and overall impact compared to the rest of the league. Plus, how does Suzuki’s production complement key Cubs pieces like Pete Crow-Armstrong, Ian Happ, and Alex Bregman? Is this core strong enough offensively to make noise in the NL — and does Suzuki lead the charge? Is he...

On this episode of the CHGO Cubs Podcast, hosts Luke Stuckmeyer, Joey Christopoulos, and Justin Roman debate where Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson ranks among division rivals. How does Swanson stack up offensively and defensively against the rest of the NL Central? Is his glove still elite? Can his bat take another step in 2026? The guys dive into advanced metrics, defensive value, leadership impact, and how Swanson compares to other shortstops around the division. With big expectations for the Cubs this season, how important is Swanson’s performance to a potential NL Central title run?

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Can the Chicago Cubs REALLY win the NL Central in 2026? 👀 Cubs Chairman Tom Ricketts believes this team has what it takes to finish on top — but is that confidence justified? On today’s CHGO Cubs Podcast, hosts Luke Stuckmeyer and Joey Christopoulos and guest Matt Cozzi break down Ricketts’ comments and what they mean for the direction of the franchise. Are the Cubs legitimate division contenders? How do they stack up against the rest of the NL Central? And does this roster truly have championship upside? We dive into the impact of Alex Bregman in the middle of the lineup, t...

With Ian Happ continuing to be one of the most consistent two-way left fielders in baseball, Seiya Suzuki providing elite bat-to-ball skills and middle-of-the-order production, and Pete Crow-Armstrong flashing Gold Glove defense and game-changing speed in center field, the Cubs’ outfield might be as complete as any in the NL. On this episode of the CHGO Cubs Podcast, the crew breaks down how this trio stacks up against the Dodgers, Braves, Phillies, and the rest of the National League. Is PCA already the best defensive center fielder in the league? Can Suzuki take another offensive leap? And does Happ’s ve...

Both players reached the top of their sport in Chicago. Derrick Rose became the youngest MVP in NBA history and looked ready to lead the Bulls back to championship glory before devastating injuries changed the trajectory of his career. Kris Bryant helped break the Cubs’ 108-year World Series drought, won NL MVP, and was on a Hall of Fame pace before injuries and roster changes reshaped his future. So which career leaves fans wondering more? What if D-Rose never tears his ACL? What if Bryant stays healthy and remains the face of the Cubs dynasty? How many championships are we...

On this episode of CHGO Cubs Related, Corey Freedman and Brendan Miller break down the biggest storylines to monitor as the Cubs report to camp. How will Alex Bregman’s leadership impact the clubhouse — and especially young stars like Pete Crow-Armstrong? Where does Matt Shaw fit defensively as roster battles begin? Are the Cubs truly comfortable with their current outfield depth, or could moves still be coming? Plus, which hitters could be this year’s surprise standouts? From breakout candidates to position battles and leadership dynamics, Corey and Brendan cover everything fans need to know as the 2026 season gets underw...

Luke Stuckmeyer and Joey Christopoulos break down the latest 2026 Chicago Cubs projections and analyze how the North Siders stack up against the rest of Major League Baseball. How do the numbers view Alex Bregman’s impact in the middle of the lineup? Is Pete Crow-Armstrong projected to take another step toward stardom? What do projections say about Ian Happ’s consistency and overall value? And on the pitching side, can Cade Horton emerge as a front-line arm while Daniel Palencia locks down high-leverage innings? From projected win totals and playoff odds to offensive rankings and rotation outlook, Luke and Joey...

Where does Chicago Cubs first baseman Michael Busch actually rank among NL first basemen? On this episode of the CHGO Cubs Podcast Joey Christopoulos and Justin Roman break down Busch’s 2026 outlook and stack him up against the top first basemen in the National League. The guys debate Busch’s offensive upside, defensive value, and whether he belongs in the same tier as names like Freddie Freeman, Matt Olson, Pete Alonso, and Paul Goldschmidt. Is Michael Busch already a top-tier NL first baseman — or does he still have something to prove? How important is Busch’s production to the Cubs’ li...

On today’s CHGO Cubs Podcast, the guys are counting down the days until Spring Training! They discuss the Brewers trading Caleb Durbin to the Red Sox and debate whether the Nico Hoerner + Matt Shaw trade rumors are dead. Plus, they dive into the division and rank the catchers in the NL Central. It’s a packed episode with Luke Stuckmeyer, Joey Christopoulos and Justin Roman!

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Do the Chicago Cubs have the BEST infield in the National League heading into the 2026 season? On this episode of the CHGO Cubs Podcast, Luke Stuckmeyer, Joey Christopoulos, and Justin Roman break down the Cubs’ infield talent and stack it up against the rest of the NL. From Alex Bregman’s veteran presence, championship pedigree, and elite bat, to Dansby Swanson’s Gold Glove–caliber defense and leadership, the Cubs’ infield suddenly looks loaded. Add in Nico Hoerner’s versatility and consistency, along with Michael Busch’s continued development and offensive upside, and the debate gets real fast. Is Chicago’s grou...

With the first official workout set for February 11, Corey Freedman and Brendan Miller get you ready for Chicago Cubs pitchers and catchers reporting to Spring Training. On this episode of the CHGO Cubs Podcast, the guys take an in-depth look at the Cubs pitching staff and break down the key storylines to watch as 2026 Spring Training gets underway. Corey and Brendan dive into the starting rotation, including Shota Imanaga, Cade Horton, and Edward Cabrera, plus the biggest questions facing the rest of the Cubs starters and relievers. What should fans expect once workouts begin? Who has the most to...

On today’s CHGO Cubs Podcast, the crew breaks down the current state of the Cubs’ pitching staff and asks the tough question: is this rotation lacking excitement, or is it built to win consistently? With Justin Steele hopefully returning this season, plus arms like Cade Horton, Shota Imanaga, Jameson Taillon, and Matthew Boyd, the Cubs have plenty of depth — but do they have enough star power? Is there a true ace leading the rotation? Can Cade Horton take the next step? Will Imanaga bounce back to elite form? And does reliability get mistaken for “boring” in today’s MLB? The guy...

Subscribe to our NEW CHGO Cubs YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@CHGO_Cubs With 50 days left until Opening Day 2026, are the Chicago Cubs finished spending this offseason — or is another big move still coming? On this episode of the CHGO Cubs Podcast, Luke Stuckmeyer and Joey Christopoulos break down the latest comments from Jed Hoyer and the Cubs front office as questions swirl about whether Chicago is truly done adding to the roster. So far, the Cubs have already landed notable names this offseason, including Alex Bregman and Edward Cabrera — but is that enough to contend in 2026? Is Zac Gall...

Subscribe to our NEW CHGO Cubs YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@CHGO_Cubs What is Edward Cabrera’s ceiling with the Chicago Cubs in 2026? On today’s CHGO Cubs Podcast, Luke Stuckmeyer, Joey Christopoulos, and Justin Roman break down what Cabrera could become in the Cubs’ starting rotation and whether his electric stuff can translate into true frontline starter production. The crew also takes a wider look at the Cubs’ overall pitching outlook for the 2026 season. Can Cade Horton continue his rise and establish himself as a rotation cornerstone? What should the expectations be for veterans Jameson Taillon and Shota Im...

Will Cade Horton emerge as the ace of the Chicago Cubs rotation in 2026? On today’s CHGO Cubs Podcast, Luke Stuckmeyer and Joey Christopoulos break down FanGraphs ZiPS projections for the Cubs’ starting pitchers and what they reveal about the staff heading into the season. Can Horton build off his stellar second half and take the leap to frontline starter status? Will Shota Imanaga bounce back and reestablish himself as a top arm in the rotation? The guys react to which Cubs pitchers ZiPS is high on, which arms are projected to regress, and what it all means for the...

The Chicago Cubs are facing a true walk year reality in 2026—and the pressure couldn’t be higher. Seiya Suzuki, Ian Happ, Jameson Taillon, and Shota Imanaga all enter pivotal seasons that could define their futures in Chicago. CHGO Cubs hosts Luke Stuckmeyer and Joey Christopoulos break down who has the most at stake, what a walk year really means for each player, and how their performances could shape the Cubs’ postseason hopes and long-term roster plans. 

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On today’s CHGO Related Cubs Podcast, Corey Freedman and Brendan Miller break down the top remaining free agents the Cubs could still pursue and zero in on one intriguing name: Zac Gallen. Would Gallen be the right fit at the top of the Cubs’ starting rotation? How would he slot alongside Justin Steele, Shota Imanaga, and the rest of the pitching staff? And most importantly, can the Cubs afford him financially and prospect-wise? The guys analyze roster construction, payroll flexibility, and what a final major move could mean for the Cubs heading into Spring Training. If the Cubs aren...

Ian Happ enters the 2026 MLB season with more pressure—and more respect—than ever as questions swirl about his future with the Chicago Cubs. Despite being ranked as MLB’s No. 6 left fielder and finishing No. 4 in the fan vote, is this still a true prove-it year for the Cubs outfielder? On the CHGO Cubs Podcast, hosts Luke Stuckmeyer and Joey Christopoulos are joined by Kyle from The Setup Man Podcast and BBBS of Metropolitan Chicago CEO Jeremy Foster to break down Happ’s production, league-wide perception, and where he fits in a crowded Cubs outfield. With Spring Training approach...

The Chicago Cubs’ farm system is under the microscope after ESPN’s latest Top 100 Prospects list featured only two Cubs prospects: Moisés Ballesteros at No. 51 and right-handed pitcher Jaxon Wiggins at No. 83. Should Cubs fans be worried about the overall strength and depth of the prospect pool—especially when division rivals like the Milwaukee Brewers added top prospects Jett Williams and Brandon Sproat from the New York Mets in exchange for Freddy Peralta and Tobias Myers? Luke Stuckmeyer and Joey Christopoulos break down what the rankings mean, which Cubs prospects could rise in 2026, and how the state of the far...

Subscribe to our NEW CHGO Cubs YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@CHGO_Cubs FanGraph’s ZiPS Projections are out for the 2026 Chicago Cubs! How does Alex Bregman’s first season as a Cub project? How do they think the Shota Imanaga and the rotation will do? Will Pete Crow-Armstrong look more like 1st half or 2nd half PCA? Join Joey Christopoulos and Luke Stuckmeyer as they discuss! An ALLCITY Network Production 📬 Chicago sports in your inbox:[ https://allchgo.com/newsletter](https://allchgo.com/newsletter) BUY MERCH:  https://store.allcitynetwork.com/collections/chgo-locker  FOLLOW ON SOCIAL:  Twitter: @CHGO_Sports Instagram: @CHGO_Sport...

The MLB Top 100 Players list is out—and Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner is nowhere to be found. Is Nico Hoerner being disrespected after another elite season of defense, consistency, and all-around impact for the Cubs? CHGO Cubs hosts Luke Stuckmeyer, Joey Christopoulos, and Justin Roman break down Hoerner’s numbers, compare him to players who did make the list, and debate whether this omission is a major snub heading into the 2026 MLB season. With Spring Training approaching, the guys also discuss the Cubs’ offseason plans—will Jed Hoyer and the front office add more pieces, or is Alex Bre...

Matt Shaw’s value to the Chicago Cubs goes far beyond the box score—and it might be higher than most fans realize. With the Cubs active in the trade and free-agent markets, Shaw’s name continues to surface in rumors, making his long-term impact even more important to evaluate. Using charts and graphics to break it all down, the CHGO Cubs crew makes the case for what Shaw brings to Chicago, from his second-half surge to his versatility and upside. The CHGO Cubs Related Podcast is hosted by Corey Freedman and Brendan Miller as they debate whether Matt Shaw i...

Pete Crow-Armstrong is quickly becoming one of the most exciting young athletes in Chicago — but where does he actually rank among the city’s top stars? On this episode of the CHGO Cubs Podcast, the crew breaks down PCA’s rise and stacks him up against other Chicago superstars like Caleb Williams and Connor Bedard. From impact and marketability to long-term ceiling, we debate who truly belongs at the top of Chicago sports. 

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How valuable is Matt Shaw to the Chicago Cubs’ future? On this episode of CHGO Cubs, Corey and Brendan break down Shaw’s impact as one of the Cubs’ top prospects, his offensive upside, defensive versatility, and where he fits into GM Craig Counsell’s vision for the roster. With Alex Bregman now in Chicago and the Cubs still active in the trade and free agent market, Matt Shaw’s name has surfaced in multiple roster and trade discussions. Corey and Brendan also dive into Shaw’s strong second half and explain why he’s become such an appealing player across...

The Chicago Cubs can’t be done this offseason — and the front office knows it. Even after recent moves, there are still clear holes on this roster that must be addressed if the Cubs want to contend in the NL Central. On this episode of the CHGO Cubs Podcast, hosts Luke Stuckmeyer and Joey Christopoulos break down why Chicago still has work to do, what positions remain in play, and which names could be next on the Cubs’ radar. Plus, with major news on the South Side as the Chicago White Sox trade Luis Robert Jr., the guys discuss how th...

Relive the Chicago Cubs’ unforgettable 2016 World Series magic and ask the big question: can they do it again? CHGO Cubs Podcast, hosts Luke Stuckmeyer and Justin Roman connect that historic championship run to today’s rising superstars in Chicago — including Pete Crow-Armstrong and the new core shaping the next era of Cubs baseball. With Craig Counsell leading the clubhouse, they break down how leadership, roster construction, and culture compare to 2016, what lessons still apply, and how close this team really is to another title run. Cubs fans won’t want to miss this nostalgic deep dive with a forward-looking twist. <...

Chicago Cubs players are already arriving in Arizona for Spring Training, and the big questions are starting early. Who WILL be the Cubs’ best player in 2026—and who NEEDS to be the Cubs’ best player for this team to reach its ceiling? Plus, what do Ian Happ, Jamison Taillon, and Dansby Swanson all have in common as the Cubs gear up for the season? Luke Stuckmeyer and Justin Roman break it all down on the CHGO Cubs Podcast, presented by Toyota.

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Subscribe to our NEW CHGO Cubs YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@CHGO_Cubs The Chicago Cubs have enjoyed a big offseason, but should they stop or keeping adding like the Dodgers? The guys talk about the latest Zac Gallen report! The luxury tax gets a new approach in 2026 and Matt Shaw gets ready for the infield. Plus, a memorable Cubs Convention recap. Tip of the cap to the Chicago Bears - but Cubs season is here! Join Luke Stuckmeyer and Joey Christopoulos for the CHGO Cubs Podcast. 0:00 Show start 1:20 Mourning the Bears 10:00 Zac Gallen linked to the Cubs 16:00 Current...

When the Cubs officially introduced Alex Bregman on Thursday, President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer drew a comparison between the 2026 roster and the World Series–winning 2016 team. The common thread? Depth. Corey and Brendan break down how the Cubs envision deploying a lineup that includes Nico Hoerner, Matt Shaw, and Alex Bregman—and why this kind of roster construction matters. They also explore how Bregman’s impact goes beyond positional flexibility, shaping the culture and competitive edge of the team. All that and more on this episode of the CHGO Cubs Related Podcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https...

The Chicago Cubs are entering a new era after landing Alex Bregman and Edward Cabrera, signaling a bold, win-now approach from the front office. On the CHGO Cubs Podcast, Joey Christopoulos and Justin Roman break down what Bregman’s arrival means for the Cubs’ lineup and leadership, plus how Cabrera strengthens the pitching staff. With Cubs Convention happening this week and trade rumors swirling around Nico Hoerner, the Cubs offseason buzz is reaching a fever pitch. Tune in for expert analysis, roster implications, and what it all means for Cubs fans heading into 2026.

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Should the Chicago Cubs trade Nico Hoerner? On this episode of the CHGO Cubs Podcast, we break down the growing trade speculation surrounding Hoerner, including reported interest from the San Francisco Giants and New York Yankees, and how Alex Bregman’s arrival reshapes the Cubs’ infield picture. With Bregman in the mix, we analyze positional flexibility, payroll considerations, defensive value, and what a potential Hoerner trade could return. Does Bregman’s presence make Hoerner expendable—or even more valuable on the trade market? All that and more as we debate the future of the Cubs’ infield. 

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Jed Hoyer and the Cubs have created one of the best infields - but is it the BEST in baseball? Additionally, another team is interested in that claim and may attempt to acquire Nico Hoerner for the West Coast. Just say no! The guys take a look at the Cubs' possible lineup and new look rotation with all the offseason additions. Oh…and the Cardinals are giving up! Join Luke Stuckmeyer, Joey Christopolous and Justin Roman for the CHGO Cubs Podcast

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Alex Bregman has agreed to a 5-year deal with the Chicago Cubs, and the ripple effects could define the Cubs’ 2026 season. The three-time All-Star agreed to a five-year, $175 million contract with the Cubs on Saturday, according to multiple reports, and the deal includes a no-trade clause. On the CHGO Cubs Podcast, Luke Stuckmeyer, Joey Christopoulos, and Justin Roman break down what Bregman’s contract means for the Cubs’ roster construction, lineup, and long-term championship window heading into 2026. How does Bregman fit alongside stars like Dansby Swanson and Nico Hoerner, and what does this move signal about the Cubs’ commitment to conte...

BREAKING NEWS: The Chicago Cubs have landed star infielder Alex Bregman, agreeing to a 5-year, $175 million contract in a franchise-altering move that sends shockwaves through MLB. On this emergency episode of the CHGO Cubs Podcast, our hosts react instantly to what Bregman brings to Chicago, how he fits with the Cubs’ core, and what this signing means for the NL Central race. Is this the superstar addition Cubs fans have been waiting for? Tune in for instant analysis, roster impact, and fan reaction.

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After the Chicago Cubs traded for high-ceiling pitcher Edward Cabrera, league buzz has centered on whether they'll keep pushing—potentially adding another marquee bat. How realistic is an Alex Bregman fit? What about Bo Bichette? And does a potentially lower-cost option like Eugenio Suárez make more sense given the Cubs’ payroll picture? Brendan and Corey break it all down on Thursday’s edition of the CHGO Cubs Related podcast.

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The Chicago Cubs are finalizing a deal to acquire starting pitcher Edward Cabrera from the Miami Marlins in a major pitching move. On this emergency episode of the CHGO Cubs Podcast, hosts Luke Stuckmeyer and Joey Christopoulos react to the breaking news, breaking down what Cabrera could bring to the Cubs rotation if the trade is completed. The guys discuss the potential fit at Wrigley Field, how this move would impact Chicago’s pitching staff, and what the Cubs may be giving up to land the hard-throwing right-hander.

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What should the Chicago Cubs change in 2026 as pressure mounts on GM Jed Hoyer ahead of the Winter Meetings? On this episode of the CHGO Cubs Podcast, hosts Luke Stuckmeyer and Joey Christopoulos discuss the Cubs’ quiet offseason so far and what must change moving forward, including expectations for Pete Crow-Armstrong, Dansby Swanson, Ian Happ, and Seiya Suzuki. The guys break down roster construction, lineup consistency, and whether the front office has done enough to push this team forward. Hit subscribe for daily Cubs news, analysis, and year-round baseball coverage!

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Subscribe to our NEW CHGO Cubs YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@CHGO_Cubs On today’s episode, Luke Stuckmeyer, Joey Christopoulos and Justin Roman debate whether the Cubs will land one of these three remaining big bats on the free agent market. Could it be the 27-year old Bo Bichette coming off a run at the World Series? Veteran and long-linked to the Cubs Alex Bregman? Or could a reunion be in the making with Cody Bellinger? Plus, they discuss the Edward Cabrera trade market heating up and some pointed comments made by the baseball media over the weekend di...

After weeks of courtship, Chicago Cubs fans received tough news as Japanese pitcher Tatsuya Imai announced he will sign with the Houston Astros, leaving the Cubs empty-handed once again. On this episode of the CHGO Cubs Podcast, hosts Joey Christopoulos and Justin Roman break down how the Cubs missed out on Imai and what went wrong in the pursuit. They also debate who the Cubs could target next as MLB free agency continues and frustration grows around the team’s offseason approach. What’s the next move for Jed Hoyer and the Cubs after missing another impact arm?