Chicago Cubs Central Podcast

The Chicago Cubs offseason just took a MASSIVE turn. According to Bruce Levine, the Cubs have signed Zac Gallen, and if true, this move could completely reshape the NL Central 👊⚾On this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, Mike Jones is joined by SetUp Man Ty to break down ALL the hottest Cubs topics, including:🔥 What Zac Gallen brings to the Cubs rotation🧠 How this signing impacts the Cubs’ World Series chances📈 Team expectations heading into the upcoming season⭐ Which Cubs players are primed to stand out and break out🐻 Can this roster finally take the next step?From pitching dominance to offensive firepower, this episode covers it all. If you’re a Cubs fan, you do NOT want to miss this deep dive into what could be a franchise-changing season.👉 Like, comment, and subscribe to Chicago Cubs Central for daily Cubs news, rumors, and REAL talk from REAL fans.#ChicagoCubs #CubsNation #ZacGallen #MLBHotStove #CubsCentral #BruceLevine #MLBNews #NLcentral #GoCubsGo #CubsTalk #MLB2026

Pete Crow-Armstrong enters Year 3 as one of the most talked-about players in baseball. After being ranked MLB.com’s No. 1 center fielder, the pressure is officially on. Was PCA’s 2025 breakout season real — and more importantly, is it sustainable?In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we break down:Pete Crow-Armstrong’s 2025 stats and advanced impactWhy MLB.com ranked PCA as the top center fielder in baseballWhether his power, speed, and plate discipline can hold up in 2026What PCA must improve to make a legitimate NL MVP runRealistic goals for the 2026 seasonHow important PCA is to the Cubs’ long-term championship windowWith elite defense, game-changing speed, and a rapidly improving bat, Pete Crow-Armstrong may be on the verge of becoming a true five-tool superstar. But can he live up to the hype — or is the pressure too much?🎙️ Tune in for a deep dive Cubs fans can’t miss.Pete Crow-Armstrong enters Year 3 as one of the most talked-about players in baseball. After being ranked MLB.com’s No. 1 center fielder, the pressure is officially on. Was PCA’s 2025 breakout season real — and more importantly, is it sustainable?In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we break down:Pete Crow-Armstrong’s 2025 stats and advanced impactWhy MLB.com ranked PCA as the top center fielder in baseballWhether his power, speed, and plate discipline can hold up in 2026What PCA must improve to make a legitimate NL MVP runRealistic goals for the 2026 seasonHow important PCA is to the Cubs’ long-term championship windowWith elite defense, game-changing speed, and a rapidly improving bat, Pete Crow-Armstrong may be on the verge of becoming a true five-tool superstar. But can he live up to the hype — or is the pressure too much?🎙️ Tune in for a deep dive Cubs fans can’t miss.#ChicagoCubs #PeteCrowArmstrong #PCA #CubsCenterField #MLB #MLBRankings #NL_MVP #CubsNation #BaseballPodcast #Cubs2026 #FiveToolPlayer #MLBAnalysis #ChicagoSports #CubsCentral

Could the Chicago Cubs make one of the biggest trades in baseball by landing Tarik Skubal?In this episode of Cubs Central, we break down a massive trade proposal that would send ace left-hander Tarik Skubal from the Detroit Tigers to the Cubs — in exchange for Matt Shaw, Jaxson Wiggins, and Ethan Conrad.This is a true win-now vs future value debate, and we dive into stats, impact, and fit for every player involved.Tarik Skubal’s 2025 stats and why he’d instantly become the Cubs’ true No. 1 starterHow Skubal changes the Cubs’ rotation and postseason outlookMatt Shaw’s 2025 production and why Detroit would view him as a cornerstone infielderJaxson Wiggins’ upside as a power-armed pitching prospectEthan Conrad’s tools and projection as a high-ceiling outfield batWho actually wins this trade — Cubs or Tigers?Would this deal push the Cubs into legitimate World Series contention, or is the price too high?👉 LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the notification bell for more Cubs trade rumors, prospect breakdowns, and deep-dive analysis right here on Cubs Central.#ChicagoCubs #CubsCentral #TarikSkubal #MLBTradeRumors #CubsProspects #MattShaw #JaxsonWiggins #EthanConrad #CubsPitching #WorldSeriesWindow #MLB

Chicago Cubs Central | Should the Cubs Sign Eugenio Suárez?The Chicago Cubs are running out of time — and so is the free-agent market. Eugenio Suárez is the last true power bat still available, and he won’t be unsigned for much longer. With money freeing up and the Cubs already expected to push past the luxury tax to chase pitching, the real question becomes simple: why not go all-in?In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we break down why Eugenio Suárez makes perfect sense on a one-year “win-now” deal. The Cubs have a lineup built to contend, but adding Suárez’s proven power could be the missing piece that turns a playoff team into a legitimate World Series threat.We discuss:Why Suárez is the last impact bat on the marketHow a short-term deal protects long-term flexibilityWhere Suárez fits defensively and offensivelyWhat the Cubs’ lineup looks like with Suárez, Seiya Suzuki, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Dansby Swanson, Nico Hoerner, Michael Busch, Ian Happ, Carson Kelly, and Alex BregmanWhy this move signals the Cubs are serious about winning nowIf the Cubs are already spending big to upgrade the rotation, adding one more bat could be the difference between competing and parading down Clark Street.📢 Don’t miss this breakdown of why Eugenio Suárez could be the final piece of the puzzle.#ChicagoCubs #EugenioSuarez #CubsOffseason #CubsBaseball #MLBFreeAgency #WorldSeriesChase #CubsNation #FlyTheW #CubsLineup #WinNow

🔵⚾ Chicago Cubs Central | Could Framber Valdez Be the Pivot if Zac Gallen Stays in Arizona?Cubs fans are locked in on Zac Gallen, but what if the real move is flying under the radar? 👀In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we dive deep into Framber Valdez, the former Houston Astros ace who remains a free agent — and ask the big question:👉 If Zac Gallen re-signs with the Diamondbacks, could Framber Valdez be the Cubs’ Plan B… or even the better fit?We break down:🔍 2025 stats & performance for both Framber Valdez and Zac Gallen⚾ Complete pitch arsenals — sinkers, curveballs, fastballs & more📊 Why Valdez’s ground-ball dominance could play perfectly at Wrigley💰 Contract value, durability, and long-term rotation impact🤔 Why Cubs fans might be overlooking one of MLB’s most consistent leftiesIs Chicago waiting on the headline name… while the smarter move sits right there in free agency?🎙️ Don’t miss this in-depth Cubs rotation conversation — subscribe, like, and join the debate in the comments!#ChicagoCubs#CubsCentral#FramberValdez#ZacGallen#CubsRotation#MLBFreeAgency#CubsOffseason#MLBPitching#BaseballTalk#WrigleyField#Astros#Diamondbacks#MLB2025#CubsRumors#PitchingBreakdown

In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we dive deep into one of the most important long-term decisions facing the Cubs front office. Nico Hoerner is approaching a critical point in his contract, and his future in Chicago could directly impact the career path of top prospect Matt Shaw.We break down:Why Nico Hoerner’s contract situation matters right nowWhether the Cubs should extend Nico long-termHow a Nico extension could block Matt Shaw’s path to everyday playing timeIf trading Matt Shaw is the smart move — and what the Cubs could realistically get in returnHow this decision shapes the next era of Cubs baseballIs Nico Hoerner too important to let walk?Is Matt Shaw the key trade chip that lands a frontline pitcher or middle-order bat?Or can the Cubs find a way to keep both?If you’re a Cubs fan who cares about roster construction, player development, and winning at Wrigley, this is a must-watch episode.👉 Subscribe for more Chicago Cubs news, rumors, and in-depth analysis👉 Drop your take in the comments: Extend Nico or trade Matt Shaw?

The Chicago Cubs are projected to win the NL Central… while losing MORE games than last season?! 🤯FanDuel’s season predictions have Cubs fans split, and in this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we break down how that scenario is even possible. Is the NL Central really that weak? Are the Cubs built to win ugly? And most importantly — who has to step up for this team to actually take the division?We dive deep into the numbers, roster construction, bullpen volatility, rotation stability, and the lack of a true MVP bat. This isn’t casual talk — this episode is for hardcore baseball fans who want real analysis, not blind optimism.If the Cubs are going to win the Central with a lower win total, someone has to emerge as the guy. We identify the pressure points that will decide the season and explain why FanDuel’s projection might be uncomfortable… but realistic.🔥 Division race breakdown🔥 Cubs vs NL Central rivals🔥 Who must step up offensively🔥 Rotation and bullpen truth🔥 What this projection REALLY says about the CubsLet’s talk baseball.#ChicagoCubs#CubsBaseball#ChicagoCubsCentral#NLcentral#MLBPredictions#FanDuel#CubsNation#MLBAnalysis#BaseballPodcast#MLB2026#CubsTalk#MLBYouTube#WrigleyField

🔵🔴 CUBS READY TO SPEND?! | Zac Gallen, Cody Bellinger & 2026 Expectations | Chicago Cubs Central 🔵🔴Chicago Cubs Central is back with a must-watch episode as Mike is joined by Kyle Stanley from The SetUp Man Podcast to break down the latest Cubs rumors and front-office buzz heading into the new season. ⚾🔥🚨 Zac Gallen to the Cubs?Are the Cubs seriously considering adding another frontline starting pitcher? We dive into why Zac Gallen makes sense, how he fits into the rotation, and what it would mean for the Cubs’ postseason hopes.👀 Cody Bellinger Reunion Incoming?Could Cody Bellinger be headed back to Chicago? Mike and Kyle debate the realistic chances of a reunion, how Bellinger would fit on the roster, and whether this move could push the Cubs over the top.💰 What Changed With the Cubs’ Spending Philosophy?Something feels different on the North Side. Are the Cubs finally ready to spend aggressively again? We break down what’s changed in the front office, why the approach looks different, and what it signals for the future.🎯 Season Expectations & Big-Picture OutlookWith the roster taking shape, what are realistic expectations for this Cubs team? Division race? Wild Card? Deep playoff run? We set the bar and explain what must go right for success.⚾ Smart analysis. Real talk. Cubs fans only.If you’re locked into Chicago Cubs rumors, MLB free agency, trade speculation, and season outlooks, this episode is for you.🔔 Like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for weekly Cubs news, breakdowns, and insider-style discussions on Chicago Cubs Central!#ChicagoCubs#Cubs#CubsNews#CubsRumors#ZacGallen#CodyBellinger#MLBNews#MLBHotStove#CubsBaseball#CubsPodcast#ChicagoCubsCentral#MLBOffseason#CubsRotation#CubsFreeAgency#NLCCentral#WrigleyField

🚨 Chicago Cubs Central: Alex Bregman & Edward Cabrera Injury Update! 🚨In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, Mike dives deep into the latest injury concerns surrounding Alex Bregman and Edward Cabrera. What does this mean for the Cubs’ 2026 season? Will the team need to make moves to stay competitive? We break down how these injuries could impact lineups, pitching rotations, and the Cubs’ playoff chances.Stay informed, get the latest updates, and don’t miss a single detail about your favorite team!🎯 Topics Covered:Alex Bregman injury history & potential impactEdward Cabrera durability & Cubs’ rotation concernsPredictions for the Cubs’ lineup and pitching strategyWhat fans should watch for in 2026💬 Join the conversation! Comment your thoughts and predictions below.🔔 Subscribe for more Cubs news, updates, and analysis!#ChicagoCubs #AlexBregman #EdwardCabrera #MLB #CubsCentral #CubsNews #CubsInjuries #MLBUpdates #BaseballTalk #CubsNation

The Chicago Cubs bullpen is deep… but is it complete? 👀In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we break down the Cubs’ urgent need for a true shutdown closer heading into the 2026 season. While the bullpen is stacked with arms like Daniel Palencia, Ben Brown, Phil Maton, Caleb Thielbar, and Hoby Milner, the question remains — who finishes games at Wrigley?We dive into:⚾ The Cubs’ in-house bullpen options and whether Palencia is ready to lock down the 9th⚾ A full breakdown of unsigned free-agent relievers still on the market⚾ 2025 stats for each realistic closer candidate⚾ How these veterans would fit into an already strong Cubs bullpen⚾ Whether Jed Hoyer should trust what’s in the building — or go get a proven closerWith the Central Division up for grabs, every blown save matters. Is it time for the Cubs to make one more move and solidify the back end of the bullpen?👇 Drop your thoughts in the comments👉 Who should be the Cubs’ closer in 2026?👉 Trust Palencia… or sign a veteran?🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS for all things Chicago Cubs baseball!#ChicagoCubs #CubsBullpen #CubsCloser #MLBFreeAgency #Cubs2026#DanielPalencia #BenBrown #MLBBullpen #WrigleyField#JedHoyer #CubsTalk #CubsNation #MLBHotStove #NorthSide

On this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, Mike is joined by viewer Cedric for a can’t-miss breakdown of ALL the latest Cubs news and rumors shaking up the North Side 👀⚾The BIG question everyone’s asking:👉 Could Nico Hoerner be traded to the San Francisco Giants for ace Logan Webb?!👉 Would the Cubs really move on from one of their most reliable infielders to land a frontline starter?We also dive deep into the future of Matt Shaw:👉 Is he a legit trade chip the Cubs could move to upgrade the roster?👉 Or does Shaw project as a super-utility weapon who could thrive all over the diamond?From trade speculation to roster construction and front-office philosophy, this episode is packed with real Cubs talk, bold opinions, and fan perspective you won’t want to miss.If you’re locked into Cubs rumors, roster debates, and what’s NEXT for this team — Chicago Cubs Central is the place to be 🐻🔥#ChicagoCubs #CubsCentral #CubsRumors #NicoHoerner#LoganWebb #SFgiants #MattShaw #CubsTrades#MLBHotStove #CubsNews #CubsNation#WrigleyField #MLBNews #NorthSide

The Chicago Cubs shocked the baseball world by signing Alex Bregman, and now the ripple effects are just beginning 👀In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, Mike is joined by Steven as they break down what Bregman’s deal means for the Cubs — not just now, but for the future of the roster.With Bregman locked in, the BIG question becomes:👉 Who’s the odd man out?👉 Will the Cubs move on from Nico Hoerner?👉 Is Matt Shaw the trade chip teams are calling about?We also dive into a HUGE development 💰👉 The Cubs FINALLY deferred money — something fans have been begging for.👉 Is this proof the front office’s philosophy is changing?👉 Are the Cubs entering a new era of aggressive roster building?This episode is loaded with roster implications, trade speculation, and real Cubs talk you won’t hear anywhere else. If you’re a Cubs fan, this is a must-watch 🔥🐻#ChicagoCubs #AlexBregman #CubsCentral #CubsNews#NicoHoerner #MattShaw #CubsRumors #MLBHotStove#CubsTrades #CubsNation #MLBNews #WrigleyField#CubsOffseason #NorthSide #MLBFreeAgency

🔥 THE CUBS DID IT! ALEX BREGMAN IS A CHICAGO CUB! 🔥The Chicago Cubs have officially landed their big bat — signing Alex Bregman to a MASSIVE 5-year, $175 MILLION deal 💰⚾In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, Mike breaks down what this blockbuster signing means for the Cubs’ lineup, clubhouse, and championship aspirations.Bregman brings elite power, postseason experience, and Gold Glove defense to Wrigley Field, instantly changing the outlook for the Cubs in 2026 and beyond. But the work may not be done 👀With Bregman locked in, the Cubs now have a real opportunity to add MORE talent via trade and push this roster over the top.👉 Is this the move that signals the Cubs are ALL-IN?👉 Who could be next on the trade block?👉 Are the Cubs now legit World Series contenders?Tune in as we break it all down on Chicago Cubs Central — Cubs fans, this is one you don’t want to miss! 🐻🔥

On this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, Mike breaks down the likelihood of the Cubs adding another veteran big bat to the lineup as the 2026 season approaches.💥 We take a deep dive into three veteran offensive options still on the market:⚾ Rhys Hoskins – proven right-handed power and on-base ability⚾ Marcell Ozuna – middle-of-the-order pop with a long track record⚾ Miguel Andújar – versatile contact bat with sneaky upside📊 In this episode, we cover:Each player’s 2025 stats and previous team2026 offensive projections and expected productionHow each bat would fit the Cubs lineup and roster constructionContract value, risk vs reward, and which option makes the most senseIs Jed Hoyer looking for a short-term veteran boost or lineup depth?Are the Cubs one more bat away from being a serious contender? 🤔🔥 Tune in, join the conversation, and let us know in the comments:Which veteran bat should the Cubs sign?#ChicagoCubs #CubsCentral #CubsOffseason #CubsRumors#MLBFreeAgency #MLBHotStove #CubsLineup#RhysHoskins #MarcellOzuna #MiguelAndujar#MLBNews #CubsBaseball #VeteranBat#MLB2026 #NorthSide #JedHoyer

The Chicago Cubs just shook up the MLB landscape and Chicago Cubs Central has you covered with FULL BREAKDOWN and REACTION!In this breaking news episode, Mike is joined by Coach as they react to the Cubs pulling the trigger on a major trade with the Miami Marlins, landing electric right-hander Edward Cabrera 🐻⚾💥 TRADE DETAILS:The Cubs send top prospect Owen Caissie plus two Double-A players to Miami in exchange for Edward Cabrera, a high-octane arm with frontline starter potential.📊 We break down:Why the Cubs made this move right nowWhat Edward Cabrera brings to the Cubs rotationThe impact of losing Owen CaissieIs this the Cubs pushing toward WIN-NOW mode?How this trade shapes the 2026 outlook and beyondIs this the bold move Cubs fans have been waiting for? Or did Chicago give up too much? 👀🔥 Tap in, join the debate, and let us know what YOU think in the comment#ChicagoCubs #CubsTrade #EdwardCabrera #OwenCaissie #CubsBreakingNews#ChicagoCubsCentral #MLBTrades #CubsNews #CubsRumors#MLBNews #MiamiMarlins #CubsBaseball #MLBHotStove#CubsRotation #MLB2026 #NorthSide

🔥 CUBS FANS — THIS IS NOT A DRILL! 🔥Chicago Cubs Central returns with a SPECIAL Listener Appreciation Edition, as Mike Jones is joined by lifelong Cubs fan Rich Mercer for a passionate, fan-first discussion about the future of the Chicago Cubs.The guys react to MAJOR breaking news from Ken Rosenthal that dropped earlier today — and the message is loud and clear: the Chicago Cubs are nowhere close to being done rebuilding and reshaping this roster. 👀⚾What does this report mean for Jed Hoyer’s plans? How aggressive will the Cubs really be? And why should Cubs fans be feeling more optimistic than ever heading into the next phase of the offseason?This episode is packed with excitement, insight, and appreciation for the fans who ride with Chicago Cubs Central every week. Cubs Nation is buzzing — and for good reason!🎧 Tune in, tap in, and join the conversation!#ChicagoCubs #CubsCentral #CubsNews #KenRosenthal #MLBHotStove #CubsOffseason #CubsRumors #CubsFans #ListenerAppreciation #JedHoyer #WrigleyField #NorthSide #CubsTalk #MLBNews #CubsNation

Are the Chicago Cubs gearing up for a MAJOR offseason move? 👀In this episode, we break down the growing buzz linking the Cubs to two huge names — a possible reunion with Cody Bellinger and a bold push to land Zac Gallen as a value free-agent arm.🧢 Could Jed Hoyer bring Bellinger back to Wrigley Field after his strong 2025 season?⚾ Are the Cubs targeting Zac Gallen following a down year in hopes of landing him at a discount?💰 Is this the Cubs’ strategy to win without overspending — finding stars on a steal?We dive deep into:✅ 2025 stats for Cody Bellinger & Zac Gallen✅ Why both players are being linked to Chicago✅ Contract expectations & market value✅ How each player fits the Cubs’ long-term plan✅ Whether Cubs fans should believe the hype — or stay cautiousThis could be a make-or-break offseason for the Cubs, and these two names might define it. 👀Would YOU bring Bellinger back? Is Zac Gallen worth the risk?👇 Drop your thoughts in the comments & don’t forget to like and subscribe for more Cubs coverage!#ChicagoCubs #CubsRumors #CodyBellinger #ZacGallen #MLBFreeAgency#CubsOffseason #JedHoyer #WrigleyField #MLBRumors #CubsNation#CubsBaseball #HotStove #MLB2026 #CubsCentral #BaseballTalk

In this episode, Mike Jones dives headfirst into the Chicago Cubs’ lack of urgency this offseason and their continued refusal to spend outside their comfort zone. Once again, the Cubs swung and missed, this time on Tatsuyi Imai, reportedly backing off because they weren’t comfortable with the AAV he was seeking in his contract.Meanwhile, fans are watching division rivals get better while the Cubs stand pat — and the frustration has reached a boiling point. Is this front office playing it too safe? Is this approach costing the Cubs a real shot at contention? And how long will fans tolerate this pattern?Mike breaks it all down, calls out the front office, and asks the question every Cubs fan is thinking: Is this acceptable anymore?👇 Drop your thoughts in the comments and let your voice be heard.👍 Like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more Cubs coverage all offseason long!#ChicagoCubs #CubsNation #ChicagoCubsCentral #MLBOffseason #CubsFans #JedHoyer #CubsFrontOffice #MLBHotStove #TatsuyiImai #CubsBaseball #NorthSide #FlyTheW #MLBNews #BaseballTalk

Jed Hoyer has been busy reshaping the Chicago Cubs bullpen heading into the 2026 season — but the big question is: is it enough to contend?In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we break down the Cubs’ newest bullpen additions Hunter Harvey, Hoby Milner, Jacob Webb, and Phil Maton, and analyze how effective these moves could be based on their 2025 MLB stats and performance.We also take a deep dive into how these new arms fit alongside Caleb Thielbar, Daniel Palencia, Colin Rea, and Javier Assad. Does this group have enough swing-and-miss? Enough high-leverage reliability? And most importantly — what are the Cubs STILL missing in the bullpen?🔥 Topics Covered in This Episode:2025 stats & analytics for Hunter Harvey, Hoby Milner, Jacob Webb & Phil MatonHow these bullpen additions impact the Cubs’ 2026 outlookCan Daniel Palencia anchor the back end as the closer?Are Thielbar, Rea, and Assad enough depth arms?What type of bullpen arm the Cubs still need to become World Series contendersFan question: Is this bullpen built for October baseball?📢 Cubs fans — we want to hear from YOU:👉 Are you confident in this bullpen?👉 Do the Cubs need one more elite reliever?👉 Grade Jed Hoyer’s bullpen rebuild so far!Make sure to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more Chicago Cubs news, breakdowns, and offseason analysis all year long.#ChicagoCubs #CubsBullpen #JedHoyer #ChicagoCubsCentral#MLBBullpen #CubsOffseason #Cubs2026 #HunterHarvey#PhilMaton #HobyMilner #JacobWebb #DanielPalencia#CalebThielbar #JavierAssad #ColinRea #MLBAnalysis#CubsTalk #CubsYouTube #MLBNews #CubsNation

The Kyle Tucker market is heating up… or is it slowing down? 🤔In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, Mike breaks down why the longer Tucker remains unsigned, the more likely it becomes that “King Tuck” returns to Chicago on a short-term deal.We dive deep into:⚾ Why Kyle Tucker’s free-agent market may not be developing as expected⚾ How timing is working in the Cubs’ favor⚾ What a short-term reunion deal could realistically look like⚾ The pros and cons of bringing Tucker back to Wrigley⚾ And the BIG question — do Cubs fans want a King Tuck reunion? 👑🐻With the Cubs still needing impact bats and front-office decisions looming, this could be one of the most important storylines of the offseason.👇 Sound off in the comments:Would YOU sign Kyle Tucker to bring him back to Chicago?Like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more Cubs coverage all offseason long!#ChicagoCubs #KyleTucker #KingTuck #CubsNation #ChicagoCubsCentral#MLBFreeAgency #CubsOffseason #WrigleyField #MLBHotStove#CubsTalk #MLBNews #BaseballYouTube #NorthSide#CubsRumors #CubsFans #MLB2025 #CubsBaseball