Three Cubs trends we’re watching early in the season

Three Cubs trends we’re watching early in the season

From North Side Territory: A Chicago Cubs Podcast by Foul Territory Network

April 16, 2026 · 34 min

About this episode

The episode discusses three key trends observed in the early part of the Cubs season, including player performances and potential concerns.

Three weeks into a long season, three particular developments have caught our attention (besides the recent rash of pitching injuries). The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney spotlight these ideas and try to project what might be sustainable and what could be a long-term concern. Is there reason to think Shota Imanaga could again be a legitimate Cy Young Award contender? Is Nico Hoerner simply off to a hot start or turning into a potential MVP candidate? And how do you evaluate the offensive struggles of Pete Crow-Armstrong and Michael Busch at this particular moment? One thing to pack, five ways to power! Get 10% Off @Ridge with code FOUL at Ridge.com/FOUL #Ridgepod See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People in this episode

Guests: Sahadev Sharma, Patrick Mooney

Topics covered

  • Cubs trends
  • pitching injuries
  • MVP candidates
  • offensive struggles
  • Cy Young Award

Keywords

  • Cubs
  • trends
  • pitching injuries
  • MVP
  • Cy Young
  • offensive struggles

Sponsors

Ridge

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: The Athletic

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