The Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast

Brett and Michael discuss the Cubs' recent turnaround, including back-to-back series wins and improved play over the last week. They also break down the team's continued struggles with runners in scoring position, Matt Shaw's encouraging progress, and how the Cubs may approach the trade deadline.

Brett and Michael discuss the Cubs’ month-long inability to win a series, the frustration of watching a once-hot team drift toward mediocrity, and the lack of a clear identity on the field. They also break down the team's struggles with runners in scoring position, Seiya Suzuki’s prolonged slump, and what it will take to get the season back on track.

Brett and Michael react to the Cubs getting swept by the Brewers and discuss the growing offensive struggles during the recent skid. They also take a deeper look at Milwaukee’s sustained organizational success and why the Brewers continue to be such a difficult team to catch in the NL Central.

Brett and Michael react to the Cubs’ eight-game winning streak, another dramatic comeback victory, and growing questions surrounding the long-term futures of Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki. They also discuss Matthew Boyd’s injury, strong bullpen performances, and whether the Cubs may need to pursue pitching help sooner rather than later.

Brett and Michael react to the Cubs’ nine-game winning streak, including a dramatic walk-off win over the Phillies. They also discuss roster management, player development vs. winning, and standout performances from Moises Ballesteros and Carson Kelly.

Brett and Michael react to the Cubs’ series win over the Rays, discuss the importance of early-season rotation depth, and preview a tough upcoming stretch against top NL contenders. They also emphasize staying grounded in April despite injuries and early volatility.

Brett and Michael react to the Cubs’ Opening Day loss to the Nationals, break down Matthew Boyd’s outing and missed offensive chances, and discuss Nico Hoerner’s six-year extension as the Cubs continue to invest in their core.

Brett and Michael dive into the fast-approaching regular season, the viewership rating for the World Baseball Classic, and how much Opening Day designations matter.

Brett and Michael break down how the Automated Balls and Strikes (ABS) challenge system is playing out in Spring Training and what it could mean for the future of MLB games. They also discuss the impending bench battles. How does Matt Shaw fit into the mix as a utility option? Which outfielders have the edge among Michael Conforto, Dylan Carlson, and Kevin Alcantara? And what role could Moises Ballesteros carve out as roster spots tighten?

Brett and Michael recap the opening of Cubs camp, discuss Chris Bassitt signing with Baltimore and what it means for the Zac Gallen market, and break down how Matt Shaw fits into the roster. They also examine the Cubs’ unusually deep rotation heading into 2026.

Brett and Michael open the show by celebrating Michael Cerami’s new children’s book about Wrigley Field before diving into a full breakdown of the Cubs’ starting rotation. They discuss upside, risk, Opening Day starter possibilities, and whether the Cubs have done enough to bolster the staff as Spring Training approaches.

Brett and Michael break down a massive week for the Cubs, headlined by the signing of Alex Bregman and the departure of Kyle Tucker to the Dodgers. They discuss what Bregman’s deal means for the Cubs’ contention window, roster construction, and long-term planning, and reflect on how Tucker’s Cubs tenure ultimately fizzled after a promising start.

Brett and Michael check in on the Cubs’ offseason, discussing roster questions, potential moves, and how the front office may approach the rest of the winter.