The Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast

Brett and Michael are back for the thirty-eighth episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! Not much movement yet in the Cubs’ offseason, but the big storyline remains Shota Imanaga’s qualifying offer decision, which must come by November 18.Reports suggest Imanaga is expected to decline the $22 million offer, with his camp exploring what his market might look like if he does. If he accepts, he’ll return to the Cubs for 2026. If he declines, he could still re-sign in Chicago—but if he signs elsewhere, the Cubs would receive a compensatory draft pick after the second round.Meanwhile, all signs point to the Cubs being active in the starting pitching market, with names like Tatsuya Imai, Dylan Cease, and others emerging as possible targets. The guys dig into Cease’s current career arc and discuss what kind of deal or trade value he might carry.Finally, they ask the offseason question on everyone’s mind: could the Cubs bring back Cody Bellinger?A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.comFollow Michael on Twitter ➡️ @michael_ceramiFollow Brett on Twitter ➡️ @brett_a_taylorFollow Bleacher Nation on Twitter ➡️ @bleachernationFollow Michael on Bluesky ➡️ @michael-cerami.bsky.socialFollow Brett on Bluesky ➡️ @brett-taylor.bsky.socialFollow Bleacher Nation on Bluesky ➡️ @bleachernation.bsky.socialVisit our Website ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brett and Michael are back for the thirty-seventh episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! They discuss the Cubs’ decision to decline Shota Imanaga’s option, what it means for his future, and whether a Qualifying Offer could still be in play. They also touch on Shane Bieber’s surprising one-year deal to stay in Toronto, how front offices are approaching short-term pitching contracts, and the Cubs’ new one-year agreement with Colin Rea heading into 2026.A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.comFollow Michael on Twitter ➡️ @michael_ceramiFollow Brett on Twitter ➡️ @brett_a_taylorFollow Bleacher Nation on Twitter ➡️ @bleachernationFollow Michael on Bluesky ➡️ @michael-cerami.bsky.socialFollow Brett on Bluesky ➡️ @brett-taylor.bsky.socialFollow Bleacher Nation on Bluesky ➡️ @bleachernation.bsky.socialVisit our Website ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brett and Michael are back for the thirty-sixth episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! With the baseball season nearing its end, the guys talk through a range of topics—from dominant postseason pitching performances to what lies ahead for the Cubs.They start by discussing Trey Yesavage’s breakout playoff and World Series run, and where a pitcher with his stuff would have finished the year if he were a Cubs prospect—Double-A? Triple-A? The conversation expands into the growing league-wide trend toward promoting talented young pitchers earlier. With more arms entering pro ball already polished, are teams ready to embrace a true youth movement on the mound? And could future CBA changes accelerate that timeline even more?The guys also dive into Jon Heyman’s report about the Cubs’ unwillingness to structure a Shohei Ohtani contract the same way the Dodgers did—with 97% of his record $700 million deferred. They unpack how that shaped the final bidding process, what the Cubs’ reported $500 million offer says about their strategy, and whether the Dodgers’ deferral-heavy model offered hidden tax benefits that helped seal the deal.Finally, they reflect on where the Cubs stand in relation to true World Series contenders—what’s in place, what’s missing, and how far they really are from being the next team to make a deep October run.A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.comFollow Michael on Twitter ➡️ @michael_ceramiFollow Brett on Twitter ➡️ @brett_a_taylorFollow Bleacher Nation on Twitter ➡️ @bleachernationFollow Michael on Bluesky ➡️ @michael-cerami.bsky.socialFollow Brett on Bluesky ➡️ @brett-taylor.bsky.socialFollow Bleacher Nation on Bluesky ➡️ @bleachernation.bsky.socialVisit our Website ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brett and Michael are back for the thirty-fifth episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! It’s that tricky part of the offseason where storylines are just starting to form, but there’s still plenty to dig into.The guys discuss the Dodgers’ rumored interest in Kyler Tucker, and how it fits the trend of big-name players being tied to big Cubs offseasons—though major fireworks haven’t arrived just yet. They also look at the current roster structure and how few obvious openings the Cubs actually have.Starting pitching remains an area of need, and the conversation turns to how the Cubs might approach it. Some of the arms discussed back in July could resurface as trade or short-term free-agent targets, as none of those pitchers ended up being moved at the deadline. While the team would likely prefer shorter deals, there’s also recognition that cost-controlled options could be appealing through trade. That said, it’s tough to imagine another big December splash just a year after the last one.They also take a longer view, discussing Dansby Swanson’s performance three years into his seven-year, $177 million deal and what that contract looks like now that the first half of his tenure is in the books.A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.comFollow Michael on Twitter ➡️ @michael_ceramiFollow Brett on Twitter ➡️ @brett_a_taylorFollow Bleacher Nation on Twitter ➡️ @bleachernationFollow Michael on Bluesky ➡️ @michael-cerami.bsky.socialFollow Brett on Bluesky ➡️ @brett-taylor.bsky.socialFollow Bleacher Nation on Bluesky ➡️ @bleachernation.bsky.socialVisit our Website ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brett and Michael are back for the thirty-fourth episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)—the first episode of the offseason. They reflect on what was a memorable 2025 campaign, one that ended just two runs short of the NLCS after falling 3–1 to the Brewers in Game 5 of the NLDS.The guys talk through the sense of closure following the season, the excitement of five postseason games at Wrigley Field, and the legacy this team leaves behind. It was a year defined by progress, competitiveness, and the kind of energy fans have been waiting for.They also look back on individual storylines—especially Kyle Tucker’s season, which started at a superstar level before injuries and inconsistency took the shine off his overall numbers. Even though his production wasn’t disastrous, the narrative of his season ended up being dominated by injuries, slumps, and a late-summer benching in Milwaukee.In contrast, they highlight the steady impact of players like Carson Kelly, whose reliability and clutch performances became defining moments down the stretch.A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.comFollow Michael on Twitter ➡️ @michael_ceramiFollow Brett on Twitter ➡️ @brett_a_taylorFollow Bleacher Nation on Twitter ➡️ @bleachernationFollow Michael on Bluesky ➡️ @michael-cerami.bsky.socialFollow Brett on Bluesky ➡️ @brett-taylor.bsky.socialFollow Bleacher Nation on Bluesky ➡️ @bleachernation.bsky.socialVisit our Website ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brett and Michael are back for the thirty-third episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! The Cubs are fighting to stay alive as they head into NLDS Game 4 tonight (Thursday) at Wrigley Field, trailing the Brewers 2-1.They recap last night’s thrilling 4-3 win that kept the series alive and take a hard look at the defensive miscues that cost the Cubs in their two losses. The guys also discuss a few key players who’ve been crucial all season but haven’t yet delivered in the postseason. Plus, a preview of the pivotal Game 4 matchup between Freddy Peralta and Matthew Boyd, and what the Cubs will need to do to force a decisive Game 5.A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.comFollow Michael on Twitter ➡️ @michael_ceramiFollow Brett on Twitter ➡️ @brett_a_taylorFollow Bleacher Nation on Twitter ➡️ @bleachernationFollow Michael on Bluesky ➡️ @michael-cerami.bsky.socialFollow Brett on Bluesky ➡️ @brett-taylor.bsky.socialFollow Bleacher Nation on Bluesky ➡️ @bleachernation.bsky.socialVisit our Website ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brett and Michael are back for the thirty-second episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! The Cubs are moving on after taking down the Padres in the Wild Card round—their first playoff series victory in seven years—and the guys are amped.They reflect on the Padres series, noting how close it really was and how both teams leaned heavily on their bullpens and matchup management. Aggressive moves from both dugouts were amplified in the short three-game format, with San Diego’s bullpen, in particular, standing out.The guys also ask the big question: are we trusting Brad Keller in the ninth inning? before turning the page to preview the upcoming NLDS showdown with the Brewers, which kicks off in Milwaukee this weekend.A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.comFollow Michael on Twitter ➡️ @michael_ceramiFollow Brett on Twitter ➡️ @brett_a_taylorFollow Bleacher Nation on Twitter ➡️ @bleachernationFollow Michael on Bluesky ➡️ @michael-cerami.bsky.socialFollow Brett on Bluesky ➡️ @brett-taylor.bsky.socialFollow Bleacher Nation on Bluesky ➡️ @bleachernation.bsky.socialVisit our Website ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brett and Michael are back for the thirty-first episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! With the postseason right around the corner, the guys cover a number of key injury and pitching storylines.Kyle Tucker could return as soon as this weekend in a DH role after meeting with his personal PTs in Tampa, but questions remain about whether he’ll be at full strength. Cade Horton’s status for the Wild Card round is also up in the air, with the Cubs potentially considering resting him if they can get through the opening series in two games—giving him added rest ahead of the NLDS. Meanwhile, Michael Boyd delivered a “decent” outing the day after Horton’s back issue surfaced, adding some intrigue to the rotation plan.In the bullpen, Daniel Palencia has returned quickly from a shoulder strain and looked sharp, but will Craig Counsell immediately give him the closer role back? Michael Soroka has also continued to impress out of the bullpen—his latest one-inning burst showed how dominant he can be when pounding the zone. The guys also talk through what the back end of the Cubs’ bullpen should look like as the team gears up for October.A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.com Follow Michael on Twitter ➡️ @michael_ceramiFollow Brett on Twitter ➡️ @brett_a_taylorFollow Bleacher Nation on Twitter ➡️ @bleachernationFollow Michael on Bluesky ➡️ @michael-cerami.bsky.socialFollow Brett on Bluesky ➡️ @brett-taylor.bsky.socialFollow Bleacher Nation on Bluesky ➡️ @bleachernation.bsky.socialVisit our Website ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brett and Michael are back for the thirtieth episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! The Cubs have officially clinched a playoff spot for the first time since 2020 after sweeping the Pirates, and the guys reflect on how far this roster has come. They debate whether this team has the pieces to make a deep October run and what a realistic championship path looks like.They also break down the projected playoff rotation, how the Cubs will set it up, and the confidence level in the arms leading the way. Matthew Boyd’s recent struggles are also on the table—after making hitters look foolish earlier in the season, his command has been shaky, his wildness has crept up, and his whiff rate has fallen dramatically.A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.comFollow Michael on Twitter ➡️ @michael_ceramiFollow Brett on Twitter ➡️ @brett_a_taylorFollow Bleacher Nation on Twitter ➡️ @bleachernationFollow Michael on Bluesky ➡️ @michael-cerami.bsky.socialFollow Brett on Bluesky ➡️ @brett-taylor.bsky.socialFollow Bleacher Nation on Bluesky ➡️ @bleachernation.bsky.socialVisit our Website ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brett and Michael are back together for the twenty-ninth episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! The Cubs dropped their series to the Nationals and opened the Braves set with another loss, pushing their skid to three games. Still, they remain the only team in baseball without a four-game losing streak this season and hold the fifth-best record overall.The guys talk about the Cubs’ inability to capitalize while the Brewers have been scuffling, and how regression has hit the offense—especially with runners in scoring position and a lack of home run production. They also dig into Seiya Suzuki’s second-half power drought (just one homer in nearly two months) despite strong underlying hard-hit metrics.A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.comFollow Michael on Twitter ➡️ @michael_ceramiFollow Brett on Twitter ➡️ @brett_a_taylorFollow Bleacher Nation on Twitter ➡️ @bleachernationFollow Michael on Bluesky ➡️ @michael-cerami.bsky.socialFollow Brett on Bluesky ➡️ @brett-taylor.bsky.socialFollow Bleacher Nation on Bluesky ➡️ @bleachernation.bsky.socialVisit our Website ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brett is flying solo for the twenty-eighth episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! He recaps a strong stretch of baseball for the Cubs, including series wins over both the Rockies at Coors Field and the Braves at Wrigley Field.The Cubs have widened their Wild Card lead thanks to some stumbles by the Padres, but the main spotlight goes to Cade Horton. His second half has been outstanding, with strikeouts climbing, walks falling, and a run that’s drawing comparisons to Jake Arrieta’s legendary 2015 second-half surge. Brett digs into Horton’s Rookie of the Year chances and what his emergence means for the rotation.Also on the docket: Kyle Tucker leaving the second Braves game early with calf tightness. The hope is it’s nothing more than precautionary, with Tucker likely to return by Friday.A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.com Follow Michael on Twitter ➡️ @michael_ceramiFollow Brett on Twitter ➡️ @brett_a_taylorFollow Bleacher Nation on Twitter ➡️ @bleachernationFollow Michael on Bluesky ➡️ @michael-cerami.bsky.socialFollow Brett on Bluesky ➡️ @brett-taylor.bsky.socialFollow Bleacher Nation on Bluesky ➡️ @bleachernation.bsky.socialVisit our Website ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brett and Michael are back for the twenty-seventh episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! They discuss the rocky start to the Giants series, including Matthew Boyd’s rough outing despite San Francisco’s struggles against lefties leading into the matchup.The guys also dive into the subtle shift in expectations as the Cubs pivot from chasing the NL Central crown to focusing on locking up the top Wild Card spot. Despite offensive regression and continued struggles at the plate—both for Michael Busch individually and the lineup as a whole—the Cubs still hold the fifth-best record in baseball and have avoided the kind of collapse that can sink a season. They wrap up with some positives too, including the sweep of the Angels.A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.comFollow Michael on Twitter ➡️ @michael_ceramiFollow Brett on Twitter ➡️ @brett_a_taylorFollow Bleacher Nation on Twitter ➡️ @bleachernationFollow Michael on Bluesky ➡️ @michael-cerami.bsky.socialFollow Brett on Bluesky ➡️ @brett-taylor.bsky.socialFollow Bleacher Nation on Bluesky ➡️ @bleachernation.bsky.socialVisit our Website ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brett and Michael are back for the twenty-sixth episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! They recap a pivotal stretch against the Brewers, where the Cubs took three of five games and showed plenty of reasons to believe they’re the stronger club—even if the standings still lean Milwaukee’s way.The guys dig into why the Brewers seem to consistently out-perform their roster on paper and compare what they’ve seen across the 13 head-to-head matchups so far. They also discuss Kyle Tucker getting a short mental break amidst his slump, the revelation that he’s been playing with a hand fracture, and his quick return to the lineup after two days off.A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.comFollow Michael on Twitter ➡️ @michael_ceramiFollow Brett on Twitter ➡️ @brett_a_taylorFollow Bleacher Nation on Twitter ➡️ @bleachernationFollow Michael on Bluesky ➡️ @michael-cerami.bsky.socialFollow Brett on Bluesky ➡️ @brett-taylor.bsky.socialFollow Bleacher Nation on Bluesky ➡️ @bleachernation.bsky.socialVisit our Website ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brett and Michael are back for the twenty-fifth episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! The guys react to Miguel Amaya’s ankle injury—suffered in his first game back from months on the Injured List—which thankfully came back as a sprain with no fracture.They also talk about Owen Caissie’s call-up in the wake of Amaya’s injury, how he fits into the Cubs’ lineup, and his arrival in the middle of a scorching hot stretch at the plate in Triple-A. The conversation also includes how Kyle Tucker’s high on-base percentage is still helping the Cubs despite his current slump, and why getting his bat going is key for the second half.A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.comConnect with us!Follow Michael on Twitter ➡️ @michael_ceramiFollow Brett on Twitter ➡️ @brett_a_taylorFollow Bleacher Nation on Twitter ➡️ @bleachernationFollow Michael on Bluesky ➡️ @michael-cerami.bsky.socialFollow Brett on Bluesky ➡️ @brett-taylor.bsky.socialFollow Bleacher Nation on Bluesky ➡️ @bleachernation.bsky.socialVisit our Website ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brett and Michael are back for the twenty-fourth episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law), and they’re joined once again by Dave from Feldco!The guys react to what felt like a disappointing trade deadline for the Cubs and evaluate the state of the team heading into August. Despite the lack of big moves, the Cubs remain one of just two teams in baseball who have yet to be swept this season.They also highlight how key bats finally came alive in the final game of the Reds series after a frustrating stretch in clutch spots, take a look at Willi Castro’s defensive versatility since joining the team, and continue to track Cade Horton’s promising development—including his rising strikeout rate and improved command inside the zone.A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.com=============================Connect with us!Follow Michael on Twitter ➡️ @michael_ceramiFollow Brett on Twitter ➡️ @brett_a_taylorFollow Bleacher Nation on Twitter ➡️ @bleachernationFollow Michael on Bluesky ➡️ @michael-cerami.bsky.socialFollow Brett on Bluesky ➡️ @brett-taylor.bsky.socialFollow Bleacher Nation on Bluesky ➡️ @bleachernation.bsky.socialVisit our Website ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brett and Michael are back for the twenty-second episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! They break down the Cubs’ series loss to the Royals and reflect on the team’s recent .500-level play, which has allowed the Brewers to continue closing the gap in the NL Central. With the trade deadline approaching, the guys also dig into some of the names being floated around and what kinds of moves might make sense for this roster. Finally, they preview the big upcoming three-game set against Milwaukee with the division lead potentially on the line. A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.com =============================Connect with us!Follow Michael on Twitter ➡️ @michael_ceramiFollow Brett on Twitter ➡️ @brett_a_taylorFollow Bleacher Nation on Twitter ➡️ @bleachernation Follow Michael on Bluesky ➡️ @michael-cerami.bsky.socialFollow Brett on Bluesky ➡️ @brett-taylor.bsky.socialFollow Bleacher Nation on Bluesky ➡️ @bleachernation.bsky.social Visit our Website ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brett and Michael are back for the twenty-first episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! They kick things off with a quick recap of the All-Star Game—including the swing-off finale—and explain why that particular twist has no place in the regular season.They also highlight Pete Crow-Armstrong embracing his status as a role model and how Kyle Tucker’s deadpan, low-energy All-Star presence was accidentally hilarious.From there, they talk replay review process tweaks, take stock of the Cubs roster heading into the second half, and reflect on the team’s surprising first-half success—owning the third-best record in baseball despite major rotation injuries. A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.com =============================Connect with us!Follow Michael on Twitter ➡️ @michael_ceramiFollow Brett on Twitter ➡️ @brett_a_taylorFollow Bleacher Nation on Twitter ➡️ @bleachernation Follow Michael on Bluesky ➡️ @michael-cerami.bsky.socialFollow Brett on Bluesky ➡️ @brett-taylor.bsky.socialFollow Bleacher Nation on Bluesky ➡️ @bleachernation.bsky.social Visit our Website ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brett and Michael are back for the twentieth episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! The Cubs wrapped up their week with a dominant 8-1 win over the Twins and an unforgettable Fourth of July performance, crushing eight home runs in an 11-3 win over the Cardinals—a new franchise record.They spotlight Michael Busch’s red-hot stretch, including his three-homer game and co-NL Player of the Week honors, and discuss how he’s finally getting national attention alongside bigger Cubs names like PCA and Kyle Tucker.Also on deck: the NL Central race is tightening up. The Brewers have surged with a sweep of the Dodgers and a month of winning baseball, but the Cubs still hold a schedule advantage in the second half. A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.com =============================Connect with us!Follow Michael on Twitter ➡️ @michael_ceramiFollow Brett on Twitter ➡️ @brett_a_taylorFollow Bleacher Nation on Twitter ➡️ @bleachernation Follow Michael on Bluesky ➡️ @michael-cerami.bsky.socialFollow Brett on Bluesky ➡️ @brett-taylor.bsky.socialFollow Bleacher Nation on Bluesky ➡️ @bleachernation.bsky.social Visit our Website ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brett and Michael are back for the nineteenth episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! They check in on the ongoing Guardians series and recap a tough road stretch that included a series loss in Houston and a split in St. Louis. The guys revisit the Kyle Tucker trade, particularly in light of Cam Smith’s breakout with the Astros, and what that deal looks like now. Plus, the Cubs are sending two starters—Kyle Tucker and Pete Crow-Armstrong—to the All-Star Game for the first time in six years, and the conversation shifts to which other Cubs could still join them as reserves. A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.com =============================Connect with us!Follow Michael on Twitter ➡️ @michael_ceramiFollow Brett on Twitter ➡️ @brett_a_taylorFollow Bleacher Nation on Twitter ➡️ @bleachernation Follow Michael on Bluesky ➡️ @michael-cerami.bsky.socialFollow Brett on Bluesky ➡️ @brett-taylor.bsky.socialFollow Bleacher Nation on Bluesky ➡️ @bleachernation.bsky.social Visit our Website ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brett and Michael are back for the eighteenth episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! With the Cubs officially past the halfway point of the season, the guys take stock of where things stand, including a three-game lead in the NL Central.They also discuss the dynamics of lineup construction, including how the Cubs are working to shake up their order and break up a string of left-handed hitters to maximize offensive opportunities and matchup advantages. A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.com=============================Connect with us!Follow Michael on Twitter ➡️ @michael_ceramiFollow Brett on Twitter ➡️ @brett_a_taylorFollow Bleacher Nation on Twitter ➡️ @bleachernation Follow Michael on Bluesky ➡️ @michael-cerami.bsky.socialFollow Brett on Bluesky ➡️ @brett-taylor.bsky.socialFollow Bleacher Nation on Bluesky ➡️ @bleachernation.bsky.social Visit our Website ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.