Bleacher Bunch Network: A Chicago Cubs Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Bleacher Bunch: No Love for Japan Feb 14, 2025

Show notes

This Valentine's Day, listen to Sara Sanchez as she hosts this week's Bleacher Bunch with co-host, Michael Cotton. They discuss the Cubs player moves of the week, hate on Jed Hoyer, love on Christopher Morel, re-start their relationship with uniforms, and Cotton comes out of nowhere with Japan Games hot take that nobody agrees with. Thank you for being Patreon Supporters.

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CubsPS+ #103: A Bench Rising from the Ashes? Feb 12, 2025

Show notes

Episode Summary:

In this episode, I dive into a key aspect of the Cubs' roster—bench depth—and why improving it could make a huge impact in 2025. Last season, the Cubs’ bench was a major weakness, and I break down the numbers on just how bad it was. But with several offseason additions and some intriguing prospects, is the bench finally a strength?

I also check in on the latest Alex Bregman rumors and discuss whether the Cubs should pursue a veteran bench bat like Justin Turner or Mark Canha.

Key Topics Covered:

🔹 Bregman Watch: The Latest Updates

Cubs' reported 4-year offer vs. Bregman’s 6-7 year demands
Will Bregman sign soon, or is this another Scott Boras standoff?
If the Cubs don’t land Bregman, what’s Plan B at third base?

🔹 Cubs’ Bench in 2024: How Bad Was It?

The Cubs’ backup players combined for -1.1 WAR 🤯
Outside of Mike Tauchman (1.1 WAR, 111 WRC+), the bench was a disaster
Patrick Wisdom (-2 WAR, 75 WRC+), Miles Mastroboni (-4 WAR, 36 WRC+), Nick Madrigal (-0.7 WAR, 57 WRC+)

🔹 How the Cubs Improved the Bench This Offseason

Added Gage Workman (Rule 5 pick) – Cubs see big potential in him
Signed Jon Berti – veteran utility guy with speed and versatility
Picked up Vidal Brujan – but will he actually make the team?
Signed backup catcher Carson Kelly – huge upgrade over last year's backups
Outfielder Alexander Canario finally gets his shot

🔹 Projections: Can This Bench Be a Strength?

Workman, Berti, and Canario all project better than last year’s options
Carson Kelly (backup catcher) projects for 88-96 WRC+ vs. last year’s 58 for backup catchers
Cubs might finally have reliable bench bats

🔹 Who Else Could the Cubs Add?

Justin Turner: Veteran power bat, projects for 112 WRC+, could be a great pinch hitter
Mark Canha: Another veteran option, good OBP, can back up first base
Paul DeJong: Less exciting, but a versatile option

🔹 What’s Next?

Bregman decision could shake up the roster – if he signs, does Matt Shaw move to the bench?
Spring Training battles to watch – Workman, Birdie, and Canario will be fighting for their spots
Cubs look deeper, healthier, and better prepared to handle a long season

🎧 Listen & Subscribe:

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Twitter/X, TikTok, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, YouTube: @CubsPSPlus

What do you think of the Cubs' bench this year? DM me or leave a comment!

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CCB #225: Podcasters Reporting For Spring Feb 11, 2025

Show notes

Sara Sanchez and Danny Rockett chop it up at the start of Spring!

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Bricks Behind the Ivy: Cubs Pitchers & Catchers Report + Should They Add Alex Bregman? Feb 10, 2025

Show notes

Spring Training is officially underway! In this episode of Bricks Behind the Ivy, we discuss:

• Cubs pitchers and catchers reporting to camp

• Jed Hoyer’s opening workout presser

• The early start to Spring Training due to the Cubs’ Japan Series

• Should the Cubs pursue Alex Bregman? How would he fit in the lineup?

Join us for all things Cubs as we kick off another season! Subscribe for weekly updates from The Bleacher Bunch Network.

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Bleacher Bunch #6: Organic Ueck Brew Feb 07, 2025

Show notes

Hilarious comedian and Brewers enthusiast Eric Wielo joins the show to talk about Bob Uecker's impact on his life. Then, Sara and Danny discuss Bregman and Brasier. Finally, a taped portion of an interview with Cubs organist Josh Langhoff.

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CubsPS+ #102: More Moves & What I Got Wrong in 2024 Feb 06, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the podcast, I dive into a variety of Cubs-related topics as the offseason winds down. With pitchers and catchers reporting soon—especially early for the Cubs and Dodgers due to their Tokyo series—it's time to assess recent moves, potential signings, and projections for the upcoming season.

Key Topics Covered:

🔹 The Larry Bowa Episode

Honoring Cubs history: This episode is named for Larry Bowa, who wore #2 for the Cubs from 1982-1985 and played a key role in the 1984 division-winning team.

🔹 Cubs' Recent Trade for Ryan Brasier

Cubs acquired veteran reliever Ryan Brasier from the Dodgers.
Breakdown of the trade details and what Brasier brings to the bullpen.
Discussion on Dodgers’ roster crunch and why Brasier was the odd man out.

🔹 Alex Bregman Rumors: Could He Be a Cub?

Cubs reportedly have a four-year offer north of $100 million on the table.
How Bregman would fit into the Cubs' infield and potential lineup changes.
Addressing concerns: Would signing Bregman block Matt Shaw or require trading Nico Hoerner?
Why depth is key and why having multiple strong options is a good problem.

🔹 Cubs Season Projections: What the Experts Say

PECOTA projection: Cubs at 90.6 wins – 3rd best in NL, 5th in MLB.
FanGraphs projection: Cubs at 84 wins – much more conservative.
Betting Lines: Cubs projected between 85.5 – 88.5 wins across sportsbooks.
My take: Cubs look like an 87-88 win team right now, but that could change.

🔹 Looking Back: What I Got Right & Wrong from 2024 Predictions

Bullpen Management: Thought the Cubs’ bullpen depth was improved—it wasn’t (until late in the year).
Bench Roles: Expected better use of depth, but some players never got a real shot.
Making Room for the Kids: Cubs gave PCA, Bush, and Shaw a real shot, but could have done more for Canario & Mervis.
Nick Madrigal’s Future: Thought he was too good to DFA—turns out, I was wrong.
Christopher Morel at 3B: Hoped he’d take over the role, but his struggles led to a trade.

🔹 Final Thoughts & What’s Next

Bregman’s situation remains fluid—will the Cubs pull the trigger?
Cubs still have offseason moves they could make—maybe an SP addition?
Full season preview coming in early March!

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Got questions or hot takes? DM me or send a message—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

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Josh Langhoff and His Amazing Organ! Feb 05, 2025

Show notes

Come see Wrigley's Organists Josh and John as they raise money for a trip to Madagascar! Sunday June 16th!

https://onrealm.org/sjtlnorthfield/PublicRegistrations/Event?linkString=MmY4MWYzNjYtOWNiMi00YWZhLTg1ZDctYjI2MzAxNjRhMGY1

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CCB #224: The PECOTA Parlay Feb 04, 2025

Show notes

Sara Sanchez and Danny Rockett discuss the Pecota Projections and baseball gambling scandals this weeks Cuppa Cubbie Blue.

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Bricks Behind the Ivy - Inside Pitching Development with Ben Brewster (Tread Athletics) & Tyler Zombro (Cubs Special Assistant) Feb 03, 2025

Show notes

Pitching development is evolving fast, and we’ve got two of the best minds in the game to break it all down! In this episode of Bricks Behind the Ivy, we’re joined by Ben Brewster of @treadathletics and Tyler Zombro, the brand-new Special Assistant for the Chicago Cubs, to discuss:

⚾ The latest trends in pitching development

💪 How biomechanics & data are shaping the future of pitching

🧠 Mental and physical challenges pitchers face

🔵 Tyler Zombro’s new role with the Cubs and his incredible journey

This is a must-watch for Cubs fans and baseball enthusiasts who want to understand the cutting edge of pitching development!

💬 Drop a comment with your thoughts on the episode!

✅ Make sure to like, subscribe, and follow Bricks Behind the Ivy for more in-depth Cubs content!

#Cubs #PitchingDevelopment #MLB #TreadAthletics #GoCubsGo

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Welcome to the BBTI Family, Yaggy Road Roasting Company!

Started by three college friends at Valparaiso University, Yaggy Road Roasting Company is a specialty boutique coffee roaster centered on ethically sourcing and meticulously roasting some of the most special coffees in the world. A lot of life’s most special moments happen over coffee, which is why Yaggy Road ensures that the coffee in your mug is as special as the moment you are experiencing.

Order your Coffee Here! - https://www.yaggyroad.com/?ref=BricksBehindTheIvy

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Son Ranto #1025: Back to Basics Feb 01, 2025

Show notes

Rockett and Cotton record a good old fashioned Cubs podcast.

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