CHGO Chicago Cubs Podcast

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 underway. Don’t miss this full Cubs Spring Training preview packed with analysis, projections and key roster questions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 dive deep into where the Cubs rank in the NL Central — and whether they truly measure up against MLB powerhouses like the Dodgers, Braves, and Phillies. Are the Cubs a legitimate National League contender in 2026? Do they project as a top-10 team in baseball? And what needs to happen to outperform the models?  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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’ lineup this season, and what would a breakout year mean for Chicago’s postseason hopes? Subscribe to CHGO Cubs for daily Cubs news, analysis, live shows, and postgame coverage all season long Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 group simply strong—or truly elite enough to claim the title of best infield in the NL in 2026?  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 prove early in camp? Baseball season is almost back as pitchers and catchers report in Arizona. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 guys dig into expectations, upside, and what this pitching staff still needs to prove in 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 Gallen still a realistic trade target for Chicago, and would the Cubs be willing to make one more splash to solidify the rotation? The guys discuss how Gallen would fit alongside the current pitching staff, what a potential deal might cost, and whether the Cubs are positioned to keep pushing their chips in. An ALLCITY Network Production 📬 Chicago sports in your inbox: https://allchgo.com/newsletter BUY MERCH: https://store.allcitynetwork.com/collections/chgo-locker FOLLOW ON SOCIAL: Twitter: @CHGO_Sports Instagram: @CHGO_Sports Limited Time Offer – Get Huel today with my exclusive offer of 15% OFF online orders of $50 or more with my code cubs15 at https://www.huel.com/cubs15 . New Customers Only. Thank you to Huel for partnering and supporting our show! Prize Picks: Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CHGO and use code CHGO and get $50 in lineups when you play your first $5 lineup! PrizePicks. It's Good to be Right! Empire Today: Schedule a free in-home estimate today! All listeners can receive a $350 OFF discount when they use the promo code CHGO. Restrictions apply. See https://empiretoday.com/chgo for details. Monarch Money: Use Monarch Money to get control of your overall finances with 50% off your first year at https://www.monarch.com/chgo Ray Auto Group: Get into your next vehicle with Ray Auto in Fox Lake! Ray Chevy: https://www.raychevrolet.com/ Ray CDJR: https://www.raycdjr.com/ HelloFresh - Get 10 FREE meals at https://hellofresh.com/freecubs. Applied across 7 boxes, new subscribers only, varies by plan. Better Help: This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Never skip therapy day, with BetterHelp. Visit https://www.betterhelp.com/CHGO today to get 10% off your first month. Use code chgocubs50 to get 50% OFF your first Factor box and free wellness shots for life with any active subscription at https://FACTORMEALS.com/chgocubs50 Hall of Fame App: Get a 7-Day Free Trial + 50% Off your first month with code CHGO. Just download the HOF app on iOS and Android or visit www.hofbets.com, enter code CHGO, and you’re all set. #ad Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code CHGO for $20 off your first purchase. When you shop through links in the description, we may earn affiliate commissions. Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. #Cubs #ChicagoCubs #FlyTheW #VibeWithUs Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 Imanaga? And just how important is a healthy—hopefully returning—Justin Steele to the Cubs’ success? From pitch profiles and upside to command, durability, and rotation depth, this episode dives into how high the Cubs’ pitching ceiling really is—and what needs to go right for Chicago to contend in 2026. An ALLCITY Network Production 📬 Chicago sports in your inbox: https://allchgo.com/newsletter BUY MERCH: https://store.allcitynetwork.com/collections/chgo-locker FOLLOW ON SOCIAL: Twitter: @CHGO_Sports Instagram: @CHGO_Sports Limited Time Offer – Get Huel today with my exclusive offer of 15% OFF online orders of $50 or more with my code cubs15 at https://www.huel.com/cubs15 . New Customers Only. Thank you to Huel for partnering and supporting our show! Prize Picks: Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CHGO and use code CHGO and get $50 in lineups when you play your first $5 lineup! PrizePicks. It's Good to be Right! Empire Today: Schedule a free in-home estimate today! All listeners can receive a $350 OFF discount when they use the promo code CHGO. Restrictions apply. See https://empiretoday.com/chgo for details. Monarch Money: Use Monarch Money to get control of your overall finances with 50% off your first year at https://www.monarch.com/chgo Ray Auto Group: Get into your next vehicle with Ray Auto in Fox Lake! Ray Chevy: https://www.raychevrolet.com/ Ray CDJR: https://www.raycdjr.com/ HelloFresh - Get 10 FREE meals at https://hellofresh.com/freecubs. Applied across 7 boxes, new subscribers only, varies by plan. Better Help: This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Never skip therapy day, with BetterHelp. Visit https://www.betterhelp.com/CHGO today to get 10% off your first month. Use code chgocubs50 to get 50% OFF your first Factor box and free wellness shots for life with any active subscription at https://FACTORMEALS.com/chgocubs50 Hall of Fame App: Get a 7-Day Free Trial + 50% Off your first month with code CHGO. Just download the HOF app on iOS and Android or visit www.hofbets.com, enter code CHGO, and you’re all set. #ad Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code CHGO for $20 off your first purchase. When you shop through links in the description, we may earn affiliate commissions. Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. #Cubs #ChicagoCubs #FlyTheW #VibeWithUs Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 Cubs’ postseason hopes. Plus, Luke and Joey take a look around the NL Central, reacting to recent signings and how the division is shaping up as the Cubs try to position themselves as contenders in 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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’t done yet, this could be the swing that defines the offseason. Join the CHGO Cubs conversation and let us know who YOU think the Cubs should add next. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 approaching and major roster decisions looming, the crew discusses what’s at stake for Ian Happ—and why 2026 could define his Cubs career. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 farm system impacts Chicago’s ability to compete in the NL Central on the CHGO Cubs Podcast.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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_Sports  Limited Time Offer – Get Huel today with my exclusive offer of 15% OFF online orders of $50 or more with my code cubs15 at  [https://www.huel.com/cubs15](https://www.huel.com/cubs15) . New Customers Only. Thank you to Huel for partnering and supporting our show! Prize Picks: Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CHGO and use code CHGO and get $50 in lineups when you play   your first $5 lineup!   PrizePicks. It's Good to be Right! Empire Today: Schedule a free in-home estimate today! All listeners can receive a $350 OFF discount when they use the promo code CHGO. Restrictions apply. See [https://empiretoday.com/chgo](https://empiretoday.com/chgo) for details. Monarch Money: Use Monarch Money to get control of your overall finances with 50% off your first year at https://www.monarch.com/chgo  Ray Auto Group: Get into your next vehicle with Ray Auto in Fox Lake!  Ray Chevy: [https://www.raychevrolet.com/](https://www.raychevrolet.com/) Ray CDJR: [https://www.raycdjr.com/](https://www.raycdjr.com/) HelloFresh - Get 10 FREE meals at [https://hellofresh.com/freecubs](https://hellofresh.com/freecubs). Applied across 7 boxes, new subscribers only, varies by plan. Better Help:  This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Never skip therapy day, with BetterHelp. Visit [https://www.betterhelp.com/CHGO](https://www.betterhelp.com/CHGO) today to get 10% off your first month.  Use code chgocubs50 to get 50% OFF your first Factor box and free wellness shots for life with any active subscription at [https://FACTORMEALS.com/chgocubs50](https://factormeals.com/chgocubs50)  Hall of Fame App: Get a 7-Day Free Trial + 50% Off your first month with code CHGO. Just download the HOF app on iOS and Android or visit [www.hofbets.com](http://www.hofbets.com/), enter code CHGO, and you’re all set. #ad Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code CHGO for $20 off your first purchase. When you shop through links in the description, we may earn affiliate commissions. Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. #Cubs #ChicagoCubs #FlyTheW #VibeWithUs  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 Bregman the final major move before camp begins? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 is a true cornerstone—or a key trade chip.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 MLB. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 that move shifts the Chicago baseball landscape and what it means for the Cubs moving forward. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.