Explore every episode of the podcast Cubs Now
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| The incredible stories behind the Cubs' combined no-hitter | 05 Sep 2024 | 00:26:23 | |
Shota Imanaga, Nate Pearson, Porter Hodge, Miguel Amaya and the Cubs combined to make history Wednesday night at Wrigley Field, throwing the 18th no-hitter in team history. Tony Andracki, Andy Martínez and Alex Cohen, who called the no-no, broke it all down on the Cubs Weekly Podcast. The trio shared their favorite moments from the epic game, including some fun anecdotes. Cohen shared his story of being thrust onto the call at the last-minute and what it meant to call a no-hitter on his third big-league game. They broke down what the win means for the team as they hope to keep their playoff hopes alive. | |||
| Bottoms Up | 29 Aug 2024 | 00:26:18 | |
The Cubs pulled off their win of the season - and one of the best wins in the last decade - Wednesday to finish off a sweep of the Pirates in Pittsburgh. Andy Martínez and Tony Andracki recap the wild week, The Christian Bethancourt Game and explain what it all means for the Cubs in the playoff race. The Cubs are now 16-8 in August and a big reason for that success has been the performance from the bottom of the order. Dansby Swanson, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Miguel Amaya and Bethancourt have been phenomenal this month, combining for a .991 OPS in August. We discuss all that and more on the latest Cubs Weekly Podcast and we even work in a little Caleb Williams and Bears chat with the new Marquee Sports Network Bears Insider Scott Bair. | |||
| Sutcliffe, Sandberg, Shota and Steele | 11 Jul 2024 | 00:25:18 | |
Former Cy Young winner Rick Sutcliffe stopped by the Cubs Weekly Podcast with hosts Tony Andracki and Andy Martínez. The “Red Baron” reflected on Ryne Sandberg’s new statue unveiled at Gallagher Way. Sutcliffe shared stories about his former teammate, including car rides to Wrigley Field and spending time in meetings with Lou Piniella after their playing days ended. The 1979 Rookie of the Year then discussed this year’s team — including what he’s thought of rookie phenom Shota Imanaga and who it reminds him of. Later in the pod, Sutcliffe shares a fun story about Justin Steele ahead of his first career complete game and a behind-the-scenes anecdote with Ian Happ. | |||
| Pedro Strop | 02 Jan 2023 | 00:39:01 | |
One of the greatest relievers in franchise history stops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast. Pedro Strop chats with Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki about memories from the 2016 World Series run, his favorite moments at Wrigley Field and plenty more from his Cubs career. Plus, Strop fills us in on what's coming next in his career and when he plans to return to Chicago. | |||
| Dansby Day | 21 Dec 2022 | 00:40:25 | |
The Cubs introduced Dansby Swanson Wednesday morning at Wrigley Field. Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki provide their biggest takeaways from the press conference and how Swanson will fit in with this Cubs team. Plus, Swanson explains why the Cubs hold a special place in his heart and Martinez explains how Carter Hawkins and Jon Lester helped sell Swanson on coming to Chicago. Hear from Hawkins, Jed Hoyer and Swanson himself as they react to the big day in Wrigleyville and what comes next for the Cubs. | |||
| Ripple effects of Dansby Swanson signing | 18 Dec 2022 | 00:32:34 | |
The Cubs made their offseason splash, signing free agent Dansby Swanson to a multi-year deal, per sources. The Cubs Weekly Podcast breaks down the signing and what comes next for the Cubs. Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez analyze the move for the Cubs and what it means to their roster for 2023. The pair then discuss what the move means for some of the other players on the roster, like Nick Madrigal, Christopher Morel and others. Lance Brozdowski and Bruce Levine join the podcast to share what comes next for the Cubs and who they could be after as they look to continue to improve their roster ahead of the 2023 roster. Andracki and Martinez then give their input on what the Cubs’ biggest need is going into next season. | |||
| Busy Winter Meetings for the Cubs | 07 Dec 2022 | 00:29:04 | |
Cubs news has been coming in fast and furious during the Winter Meetings in San Diego and our Cubs Weekly Podcast panel breaks it all down on location. Ryan Dempster joins Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez to analyze all the craziness around MLB, the Cubs' reported signings of Cody Bellinger and Jameson Taillon, Pat Hughes' Hall of Fame call and Willson Contreras' rumored deal in St. Louis. How much did the Cubs' roster improve just in the couple days in San Diego? What kind of upside do Taillon and Bellinger bring to the team and is there a trickle down effect on the rest of the roster? Plus, which of the top 3 shortstops would be the best fit for the Cubs? | |||
| A Winter Meetings addition | 07 Dec 2022 | 00:24:07 | |
The 2022 MLB Winter Meetings are underway in San Diego, bringing a special edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast. And the Cubs brought their own special addition to the table, in the form of the reported signing of former MVP Cody Bellinger. Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki break down how Bellinger will fit with the Cubs, what he brings to the table and why there's reason for untapped optimism surrounding the move. As the Cubs continue to shop in the free agent market, how are Jed Hoyer, Carter Hawkins and David Ross making their "pitch" to top players? What have been the main takeaways so far from a really active MLB Winter Meetings? Plus, MLB Network Insider Jon Morosi stops by to discuss what moves could be coming next for the Cubs. | |||
| Cubs nostalgia with Ryan Dempster | 21 Nov 2022 | 00:35:30 | |
Ryan Dempster drops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to reminisce on his 9-year Cubs career with Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki. Dempster tells tales of what it was like to be teammates with Greg Maddux, how incredible Derrek Lee's 2005 season was, 2007-08 memories, the differences between Lou Piniella and Dusty Baker and much more. Plus, Dempster also shares his strategy during a benches clearing brawl and why he felt like a part of the roster during the 2016 season. | |||
| Analyzing early-offseason roster decisions | 17 Nov 2022 | 00:33:02 | |
Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki discuss the Cubs' early-offseason roster decisions, which included outrighting 9 players to the minors and selecting the contract of 4 prospects to add to the 40-man roster. Willson Contreras and Jason Heyward are officially gone and the Cubs also made a minor trade with the Tampa Bay Rays that could pay off huge dividends in the 2023 team. Plus, Martinez analyzes the Cubs coaching moves and how the hitting infrastructure will be altered next season. MLB.com's JP Morosi also provides a very intriguing nugget about a high-profile free agent that may be motivated to sign with the Cubs. | |||
| Recapping the GM Meetings in Las Vegas | 10 Nov 2022 | 00:18:49 | |
MLB’s offseason kicked off in earnest this week with the annual General Managers Meetings at the Conrad at Resorts World in Las Vegas. Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer and general manager Carter Hawkins convened with the rest of their counterparts from across the league this week for meetings, breakout sessions and plenty more. Taylor McGregor and Andy Martínez were in Las Vegas to recap the event and get a grasp for what the Cubs hope to accomplish during this pivotal offseason. The pair share their biggest takeaways, the Cubs’ plans for the offseason and share some fun from Scott Boras’ press conference. Plus, the pair provide updates on Drew Smyly, Willson Contreras, Kyle Hendricks and much more. | |||
| Revisiting Game 7 with Ron Coomer | 02 Nov 2022 | 00:37:26 | |
Chicago native and Cubs radio analyst Ron Coomer stops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to revisit Game 7 of the 2016 World Series with Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki. Six years after the greatest game in Cubs franchise history, the trio discusses the biggest takeaways from that magical night in Cleveland and relive the emotional roller coaster. Plus, hear what Coomer did during the rain delay, how he celebrated the Cubs' championship and why he wears his World Series ring so often. | |||
| Cubs VP of pitching Craig Breslow | 28 Oct 2022 | 00:36:31 | |
Cubs vice president/director of pitching and assistant GM Craig Breslow joins the Cubs Weekly Podcast to explain to hosts Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez exactly what his job entails on a day-to-day and week-to-week basis. Breslow also provides a peek behind the curtain as to how the organization's pitching infrastructure has grown in the last few years and what they still hope to accomplish in coming seasons. Plus, how does Kyle Hendricks return to form and who are some other names in the organization to keep an eye out for in 2023 and beyond? | |||
| A historic moment | 04 Jul 2024 | 00:27:06 | |
Elise Menaker joins Andy Martínez and Tony Andracki on the latest Cubs Weekly Podcast to discuss her career journey to this point and being a part in a historic Cubs broadcast on Marquee.
Plus, why does it feel like every Cubs game is Groundhog Day right now? What does the offense do to get out of this 2-month-long funk?
Our panel analyzes the recent stretch and what to make of this team over halfway into the season. | |||
| 2022-23 offseason mailbag | 20 Oct 2022 | 00:46:07 | |
Our Cubs Weekly panel of Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki answer reader questions ahead of a pivotal offseason. From best free agent fits to offseason predictions, we attempt to answer every question fired our way - including some fun off-the-wall queries. 00:56 - Who are some Cubs players that you think will break out next season? 03:47 - Was Jar Jar secretly a dark lord of the Sith (the true ‘phantom menace’ within an abandoned storyline)? 04:48 - Which Cub had the best ULRAG of the year? 06:05 - If you could design a Cubs + Star Wars promo/gameday giveaway what would it be? 07:02 - Favorite Cubs moment of the 2022 season 09:15 - Using the 2022 Cubs final home game lineup, match each player with their Star Wars character. 15:37 - Will the Cubs try to get top free agents? 16:40 - Thoughts on the upcoming offseason 18:46 - Prediction for next season's record 20:05 - Do you think the Cubs will make the 2023 postseason? 21:13 - Do you foresee Morel retaining the multi-tool function next year or getting locked in at one spot? 24:05 - 2016 Cubs as MCU characters 26:55 - What's the 1B situation next year looking like? Would adding a 36-year-old player (like Jose Abreu) with positional limitations be wise? 29:24 - Why not extend Willson Contreras? 31:50 - Will the Cubs sign a FA SS or could they trade for one? Is Nico staying at SS or moving back to 2B? 33:58 - What are your projections for CF, SS, 1B, 2B, 3B starters in '23? FA's, prospects, names? 37:22 - Who is the Cubs' future? 39:24 - Favorite dance? 40:33 - If made available, would the Cubs be in on Rafael Devers or Mike Trout? | |||
| Offseason predictions and 2022 awards | 12 Oct 2022 | 00:49:03 | |
Bruce Levine, Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki dissect Jed Hoyer's end-of-season press conference and provide the main takeaways from the Cubs president of baseball operation's hour-long session with media. Plus, the podcast panel provides predictions for the Cubs offseason, including the biggest areas of need on the roster and a bold prediction for the winter. The trio also reflects on the 2022 season with the best moments, most important on-field developments, biggest surprises, MVPs, Cy Youngs, etc. | |||
| Pitching questions | 27 Sep 2022 | 00:25:38 | |
Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki attempt to answer a slew of questions surrounding the Cubs pitching staff entering the offseason and looking ahead to 2023. What are reasonable expectations for Kyle Hendricks next year? Where do Hayden Wesneski, Keegan Thompson, Javier Assad, Adbert Alzolay and Adrian Sampson fit into the pitching staff next year? Plus, what are the most important storylines to watch over the final week-plus of the regular season? | |||
| What's in a name? | 20 Sep 2022 | 00:39:27 | |
Carlos Peña drops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to explain what his Hispanic heritage means to him and what it was like coming up through the minor leagues as a Hispanic ballplayer. Plus, Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki evaluate what role Zach McKinstry and Michael Hermosillo might have on the 2023 Cubs after a recent stretch of solid play. Martinez also details his unique find in the story of Alfonso Rivas and Javier Assad, who grew up playing Little League together in Tijuana and are now teammates once again in Chicago. 00:55 - What does the future hold for Zach McKinstry and Michael Hermosillo with Cubs? 12:29 - How the Assad/Rivas story came about 16:26 - Andy goes 1-on-1 with Carlos Peña | |||
| Triple-A roundup with Alex Cohen | 13 Sep 2022 | 00:30:40 | |
Triple-A Iowa broadcaster Alex Cohen joins Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki on the Cubs Weekly Podcast. The trio discusses the upcoming MLB rule changes - like larger bases and pitch clock - that have been at the Triple-A level all season. Plus, updates on players like Adbert Alzolay, Alexander Canario, Brennen Davis and how Caleb Kilian has fared since his cup of coffee in the big leagues. Cohen also breaks down Matt Mervis' monster season, what he saw from a trio of pitchers (Hayden Wesneski, Brandon Hughes, Javier Assad) before they migrated to Chicago and provides several under-the-radar players to keep an eye on. TOPICS: 01:12 - Impressions of pitch clock and bigger bases in the minors 04:12 - Hayden Wesneski's time in Triple-A and adjustment to MLB 06:42 - Caleb Kilian's up-and-down 2022 campaign 11:02 - Summing up Brennen Davis' return to Triple-A so far 13:07 - Brandon Hughes, Javier Assad and the Cubs pitching development 18:25 - Alexander Canario update 20:56 - Matt Mervis' breakout season 26:05 - Adbert Alzolay's rehab outings 28:32 - Under-the-radar players to keep an eye on | |||
| A dominant debut | 07 Sep 2022 | 00:29:01 | |
Hayden Wesneski turned in one of the most dominant MLB debuts in Cubs recent history but his pitching may not have been the most impressive part of his evening. Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki explain on the latest Cubs Weekly Podcast and chat about Wesneski's role for the rest of the season and in 2023. Plus, the duo discusses Wade Miley's return, next steps for Justin Steele, Keegan Thompson and Adbert Alzolay and Ben Zobrist's future role. Martinez and Andracki also break down the likelihood Franmil Reyes and Rafael Ortega play major roles on the 2023 Cubs. 00:46 - Tony and Andy get stumped on this week's trivia question 03:34 - Hayden Wesneski's dominant debut: What stood out most? 08:10 - Taylor McGregor goes 1-on-1 with Wesneski after the game 10:13 - What's next for Wesneski? 14:52 - Will we see Steele and Thompson pitch again this season? When might Contreras be back? 18:53 - Ben Zobrist potentially having an expanded role with the organization? 21:32 - What does the future hold for Franmil Reyes and Rafael Ortega with Cubs? | |||
| Evaluation time | 31 Aug 2022 | 00:38:48 | |
We're at the point in the season where the Cubs are using the final few weeks to evaluate younger players. Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki break it down on the latest Cubs Weekly Podcast, including Jeremiah Estrada and Brendon Little making their MLB debuts this week in Toronto. Plus, why Cubs veterans believe the team is on the right track and how they can help young pitchers like Justin Steele and Keegan Thompson as they navigate their first full big league campaign. The panel also discusses the narrative surrounding Nick Madrigal and the team's top two draft picks from last month (Cade Horton and Jackson Ferris) stop by the Marquee Sports Network studio. | |||
| Pitching, prospects and Brennen Davis | 24 Aug 2022 | 00:38:28 | |
Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki dissect the Cubs' pitching staff with the addition of several young arms. How is the bullpen shaking out? What does the 2023 rotation look like? Plus, Lance Brozdowski chats with Brennen Davis on his injury recovery while Martinez and Andracki provide a slew of other prospect updates. The duo also discusses the importance of winning over the final six weeks of the season and what it could mean for this franchise moving forward. 00:16 - The plan for Kyle Hendricks 04:32 - Young pitchers proving their worth in Chicago 10:00 - Has Adrian Sampson carved out a role on the 2023 pitching staff? 12:42 - Analyzing Steele's breakout 17:30 - Brennen Davis 1-on-1 with Lance Brozdowski 23:06 - What are the next steps for Davis? 25:24 - Other prospect updates (Alexander Canario, Miguel Amaya, Jordan Wicks) 32:13 - How important is it for the Cubs to playing winning baseball down the stretch? | |||
| 2022 mid-year prospect rankings | 19 Aug 2022 | 00:44:40 | |
Lance Brozdowski stops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to share his new Top 25 Cubs prospect rankings and make Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki smarter. Brozdowski breaks down his list, what went into his reasoning behind who is ranked where and what he struggled with most as he put together the order. Plus, the panel breaks down the depth of the system, some new additions to the rankings, which players could join the list next season and a few prospects fans may see at Wrigley Field in the near future. 00:47 - How Brozdowski put his list together and how these rankings compare to past lists 08:43 - The organization's strength of pitching depth compared to a year ago 14:48 - The graduation of Christopher Morel, Nelson Velazquez and Anderson Espinoza from these rankings 19:22 - Why Caleb Kilian dropped in this list 23:29 - Why Kohl Franklin dropped on the rankings 24:29 - Why Brozdowski left off Reginald Preciado, Alexander Vizcaíno, Christian Franklin and Brailyn Marquez 28:25 - The arrival of Matt Mervis and Moises Ballesteros 36:11 - A wave of young relievers coming up through the system 38:28 - How will this list look a year from now? 41:48 - Who are some of the prospects that can make an impact at Wrigley Field in the near future? | |||
| Field of Dreams | 13 Aug 2022 | 00:40:37 | |
The Cubs won big at Field of Dreams - both in the game and in the experience at the magical place. Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki relive the best moments from the momentous day in Iowa and recall how the Cubs took in the event. Plus, catch an interview with Murray Cook, the groundskeeper at the Field of Dreams. In the second segment, our duo discusses the Jason Heyward news, Franmil Reyes' addition to this team and how Tom Ricketts is viewing the offseason. Jed Hoyer also chats with Cole Wright about the upcoming winter and the future of the franchise. | |||
| Assessing the 2024 Cubs at the midpoint | 27 Jun 2024 | 00:28:13 | |
As the Cubs reach the midpoint in the 2024 season, the Cubs Weekly Podcast tries to answer a critical question — is this who the Cubs are? Andy Martínez and Joe Girardi discuss what the Cubs can do to right the ship. The pair break down some of the Cubs’ offensive woes and how a good stretch can help turn a team. Girardi offers some insight of the benefits and downsides of trying to fire up a team by throwing things or yelling. The duo also discusses Ryne Sandberg’s statue, his legacy in Chicago and Girardi’s memories playing with the Hall of Famer. Later in the podcast, the pair discuss Kyle Hendricks’ resurgence, the role Miguel Amaya played in it and what moving on from a veteran like Yan Gomes can do to a team. Girardi offers some insight on Pete Crow-Armstrong’s struggles at the plate and what he can do to turn around his game offensively. | |||
| A trade deadline full of surprises | 03 Aug 2022 | 00:43:22 | |
The MLB trade deadline came and went and there was no shortage of surprising moves - by the Cubs and around the league. Juan Soto and Josh Hader are among the stars switching teams while the Cubs held on to a pair of stars of their own in Willson Contreras and Ian Happ. Even one of the moves the Cubs did make - trading away young reliever Scott Effross - was surprising, though the trio of veterans shipped out was predictable. Our panel of Elise Menaker, Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki break down all the deadline madness and how it affects the Cubs moving forward. Full rundown: 00:35 - Trivia 03:10 - Reaction to Contreras/Happ remaining with Cubs 09:29 - How does this affect the final two months of the Cubs' season? 14:46 - Is Contreras now more likely to sign an extension with the Cubs? 18:22 - Jed Hoyer on the Cubs' deadline haul 20:29 - What stands out to you most about the Cubs' deals? 28:35 - Who needs to step up for the Cubs post-deadline? 33:41 - What surprised you most about the deadline? 37:25 - How did the Soto trade impact the market for the Cubs? | |||
| A convo with Carter Hawkins | 28 Jul 2022 | 00:43:24 | |
Cubs GM Carter Hawkins sits down with Cole Wright to discuss Willson Contreras' future, Nico Hoerner's emergence and more. Plus, the Cubs Weekly panel of Elise Menaker, Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki recap the emotional series at Wrigley Field for Contreras and Ian Happ. The trio also previews the upcoming trade deadline and the stories they're following leading up to the busy day. 00:46 - Trivia 02:51 - Recapping emotional series at Wrigley Field for Contreras, Happ 07:34 - All eyes on the trade deadline 13:11 - Cole Wright sits down with Cubs GM Carter Hawkins 40:27 - Story of the week | |||
| Dan Kantrovitz analyzes 2022 Draft | 20 Jul 2022 | 00:32:43 | |
Cubs vice president of scouting Dan Kantrovitz drops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to dissect the organization's 2022 MLB Draft haul. Lance Brozdowski and Tony Andracki chat with Kantrovitz about the run on pitching (16 of the 20 selections were pitchers), two-way players, the timing of the draft and how the pre-draft plan came to fruition. | |||
| The path to LA | 14 Jul 2022 | 00:35:55 | |
Elise Menaker, Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki chronicle the journey to the MLB All-Star game for a couple of Cubs - Ian Happ and Willson Contreras. Plus: An All-Star themed trivia question, takeaways from the series with Baltimore and where the Orioles are at in their rebuild and how Kyle Hendricks' injury affects the rotation. - (00:28) Trivia - (02:45) Ian Happ's All-Star journey - (10:03) Willson Contreras' path to L.A. - (15:23) Takeaways from Cubs' series with Orioles - (21:29) Kyle Hendricks' injury and how it impacts the rotation - (26:59) HR Derby chatter - (30:48) Story of the Week | |||
| The wonder of Wrigley | 05 Jul 2022 | 00:39:35 | |
The theme of this week's podcast is Wrigley Field, as two members of the "Friendly Confines" crew stop by to detail their day-to-day duties. Mira Emma, a groundscrew intern and an Iowa State soccer player, joins Elise Menaker for an interview on how she helps get the playing surface ready for the Cubs. Also, security guard Fabian De Hoyos chats with Andy Martinez about his sudden rise to fame after going viral during a broadcast last week. And then there was the defense of Wrigley Field that galvanized Cubs fans after a Boston Red Sox pitcher attacked the iconic ballpark. Catch it all on this week's podcast:
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| Making strides | 29 Jun 2022 | 00:32:55 | |
Elise Menaker, Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez discuss all the latest surrounding the Cubs - particularly how young players are making strides toward the future. Topics include: - (00:35) A Kyle Hendricks trivia question - (06:54) A snippet from a new feature with Hendricks - (11:02) Nico Hoerner's incredible hot stretch - (16:15) Christopher Morel's growing pains - (22:24) Keegan Thompson's future in the rotation - (29:01) Our favorite stories of the week | |||
| Pitching decisions | 22 Jun 2022 | 00:29:45 | |
The Cubs were forced to make a variety of tough pitching decisions this week, including optioning Adrian Sampson and top prospect Caleb Kilian down to the minors. Elise Menaker, Taylor McGregor and Tony Andracki discuss why the Cubs made each move and what comes next for the team. Plus, an All-Star voting update brought about some surprises - and some very unsurprising developments. The panel also provides injury updates and discusses how Nico Hoerner has proved all the doubters wrong. | |||
| Insight from Christopher Morel's minor league coach | 15 Jun 2022 | 00:41:26 | |
Paul McAnulty - the hitting coach at Class-A South Bend in 2019 - joins the Cubs Weekly Podcast to discuss what Christopher Morel was like as a player coming up through the Cubs system and how the youngster morphed into a star rookie in the majors. Plus, Elise Menaker, Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez chat about the state of the Cubs' rotation - including Kyle Hendricks' return to the mound, Justin Steele's development and Caleb Kilian's second stint in Chicago. The panel also dissects Ian Happ's breakout season and how the 2022 Cubs are all about opportunity for players like Eric Stout. | |||
| Young players to keep an eye on | 10 Jun 2022 | 00:50:16 | |
Lance Brozdowski joins Elise Menaker and Tony Andracki on the Cubs Weekly Podcast. The trio discusses a host of young players in the organization, including Christopher Morel's breakout and Caleb Kilian's debut. Plus, what prospects have taken a leap this season? And who are some young players we might see in Chicago later this year following in the footsteps of Morel and Kilian? The panel also dissects Patrick Wisdom's adjustments at the plate and which Cubs players might be ticketed for the All-Star Game next month. | |||
| Christopher Morel's incredible start and checking in on Triple-A Iowa | 02 Jun 2022 | 00:42:08 | |
It would be difficult to script a better first couple weeks for Christopher Morel in the major leagues. Elise Menaker, Tony Andracki and Iowa Cubs broadcaster Alex Cohen dissect Morel's hot start and how he has impacted the Chicago team. We also check in on how rehab assignments for David Bote and Alec Mills have gone in Iowa and updates on top prospects Caleb Kilian and Brennen Davis. Plus, who will be next to make the trip from Iowa to Chicago to help the big-league club? And how is the new pitch clock affecting the game in the minor leagues? | |||
| Are the Cubs in their Redemption Era? | 20 Jun 2024 | 00:27:06 | |
The word of the day is "redemption" for the Chicago Cubs. Andy Martínez and Tony Andracki break down the Cubs' big series win over the Giants and how they got to that point, including clutch performances from Kyle Hendricks and Dansby Swanson. The offense is showing signs of life, the starting rotation continues to excel but the bullpen has been a pain point, especially lately. Martínez and Andracki analyze where the Cubs go from here with the bullpen, including potential pitchers in the organization that can help out. Alex Cohen - the Triple-A Iowa Cubs broadcaster - also joins the pod to help shed a light on some intriguing pitchers in the minor leagues that could impact the Chicago bullpen at some point this year. Plus, what is the latest with outfield prospects Owen Caissie, Alexander Canario and Brennen Davis? | |||
| Dan Plesac | 26 May 2022 | 00:27:48 | |
The Conductor himself, Dan Plesac, stops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to chat with host Elise Menaker and Tony Andracki. The trio discusses the Cubs' recent stretch of quality play, Christopher Morel's staying power, Frank Schwindel's resurgence and a return to health by Nico Hoerner and Willson Contreras. Plus, who is next to get a statue outside Wrigley Field? And Plesac also weighs in on doubleheaders and his favorite Wrigley and Crosstown memories. | |||
| Fergie Day and Home Run Derby X | 21 May 2022 | 00:30:47 | |
Fergie Jenkins' statue was unveiled at Wrigley Field this weekend and Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez provide their takeaways from the festivities, including what Billy Williams said. Plus, hear from Jenkins as he speaks to the crowd on hand and explains what the honor means to him. Also, Spencer Owen stops by Wrigley Field to detail his status as a Home Run Derby X Wild Card and how he is training to partner with Geovany Soto on the Cubs team in this summer's event. | |||
| Carlos Peña weighs in on the Cubs and a weird rule | 11 May 2022 | 00:34:05 | |
Carlos Peña stops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to chat with host Cole Wright and Andy Martinez about the Cubs' recent play, including a an all-around team victory Monday night in San Diego. From Kyle Hendricks' dominant outing to a strange week for Frank Schwindel to Nico Hoerner's budding stardom, the trio dissect every aspect of the Cubs roster - complete with pop culture references. Plus, why are players not rewarded with an RBI if they drive in a run while grounding into a double play? Peña, Wright and Martinez debate. | |||
| April lessons and favorite Crosstown memories with Sean Marshall | 02 May 2022 | 00:45:44 | |
Sean Marshall joins Elise Menaker and Tony Andracki to chat about the top takeaways from the Cubs in the first month of the 2022 season. Marshall analyzes Marcus Stroman, Keegan Thompson, David Robertson and some other Cubs pitchers and provides his thoughts on this year's shortened Spring Training. Plus, the panel discusses favorite Crosstown memories, including Marshall's throwback to his playing days. Marshall, Menaker and Andracki also have a chat about the mental side of the game - with some help from Patrick Wisdom. | |||
| Big test looming for 2022 Cubs | 25 Apr 2022 | 00:41:01 | |
Baseball is weird. That is one of the main takeaways our Cubs Weekly Podcast panel (Elise Menaker and Tony Andracki) had from the 4-game set with the Pirates at Wrigley Field. Menaker and Andracki analyze a few key areas of the roster coming into focus - including the batting order and bullpen. Plus, reinforcements could be on the horizon and Keegan Thompson's breakout season. The Cubs' next 14 games are all against playoff contenders, so we will learn a lot about what this team is made of during this upcoming stretch. | |||
| Assessing Cubs’ early offensive successes and Seiya Suzuki’s sizzling start | 18 Apr 2022 | 00:47:39 | |
The Cubs split their road series with the Pirates and Rockies, with their offensive showings catching the eye of our panel — Elise Menaker and Andy Martínez. The pair discuss the hot start for the Cubs’ bats that ranks in the top 10 of baseball in many offensive categories and the showings of Patrick Wisdom and Frank Schwindel. Then, Menaker and Martínez breakdown Seiya Suzuki’s torrid start and what’s been most impressive so far. Menaker and Martínez discuss the Cubs’ rotation and how the pitching staff will look as they continue to get stretched out and into full game rhythm. | |||
| Opening Weekend takeaways and new prospect rankings | 12 Apr 2022 | 00:46:24 | |
With the Cubs taking 2 of 3 from the Brewers in the first series of 2022, our panel (Elise Menaker, Tony Andracki and Lance Brozdowksi) discuss the top takeaways from the weekend. Topics include Seiya Suzuki's historic debut, the success of the rotation and surprising developments. Then, Brozdowski takes the group through his latest Top 25 Cubs prospect rankings, explaining why players slot in at each spot. Who made the biggest leap? Who is poised to shoot up the list in 2022 or beyond? Which players just missed the cut? Brozdowski answers these questions and more. | |||
| 2022 preview and predictions plus a sit-down with Nick Madrigal | 05 Apr 2022 | 00:55:34 | |
The 2022 MLB season is upon us! Our panel (Elise Menaker, Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez) previews the Cubs season and provides predictions on a variety of topics, including: -Favorite Spring Training moment -2022 Cubs breakout player -Under-the-radar players to keep an eye on -Who will lead the Cubs in homers? -Who will lead the Cubs in saves? -Biggest surprise of the season -Bold predictions -Must-watch series for the season Plus, Cubs second baseman Nick Madrigal stops by the podcast to chat about his unicorn approach at the plate, his thoughts on walk-up songs and how he will work with the team to stay healthy in 2022. | |||
| Suzuki, Contreras and other updates from Spring Training | 23 Mar 2022 | 00:16:47 | |
Reporting from Mesa, Ariz., host Elise Menaker is joined by Bruce Levine and Tony Andracki to touch on all the latest updates from Cubs camp. From Seiya Suzuki's upcoming Cactus League debut to Willson Contreras' contract news to how the bullpen and pitching staff are shaping up, our crew discusses the most pertinent news. | |||
| Cubs make a splash in free agency and return of baseball | 17 Mar 2022 | 00:29:37 | |
On this week’s edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, Andy Martínez, Cole Wright and Bruce Levine discuss the news on the reported signing of Seiya Suzuki. Then the trio breakdown the newest additions to the roster, including Marcus Stroman, Wade Miley and Andrelton Simmons. The crew also discusses some injury updates and Levine gives some insight on additions to the Cubs roster, all while celebrating the return of baseball. | |||
| Searching for solutions | 13 Jun 2024 | 00:27:48 | |
On the latest edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, Andy Martínez and Tony Andracki address the biggest issues facing the Chicago Cubs over the last month-plus. When is it time for fans to panic and when does it stop being "too early" to draw conclusions about a team? Our podcast duo drills down on the Cubs' offensive inconsistencies, the bullpen concerns, the collective fielding slump and how all aspects of the game are intertwined. Plus, what are the solutions for the Cubs and can Jed Hoyer's front office address needs at the trade deadline? | |||
| Catching up with Frank Schwindel | 10 Mar 2022 | 00:24:13 | |
Cubs first baseman Frank Schwindel stops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to chat with host Cole Wright and Tony Andracki. Topics include: -Schwindel's whirlwind 2021 season -What led to his immediate success in Chicago? -Interactions with Cubs fans -How he plays so loose and relaxed on the field -His favorite moment as a Cub -Goals for 2022 and beyond | |||
| Top Storylines of the 2021 Minor League Season and a conversation with Adbert Alzolay | 10 Mar 2022 | 00:46:08 | |
On the latest edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, Elise Menaker and Lance Brozdowski have a makeshift draft of what they believe are the top storylines of the Cubs 2021 Minor League season. Plus, Cubs pitcher Adbert Alzolay and his wife sat down with Taylor McGregor to talk about his family, his journey to the major leagues and more. | |||
| Ed Howard on finding success and his support system back home in Chicago, plus a full onsite report from Class-A Myrtle Beach | 10 Mar 2022 | 00:38:57 | |
On the latest edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, Elise Menaker and Lance Brozdowski debut an exclusive interview with Ed Howard in Class A Myrtle Beach. They also reflect on a conversation Lance had with Howard’s Mt. Carmel High School baseball coach, Brian Hurry, and reveal a special surprise Marquee put together for Howard’s interview. But before those sit-downs, Menaker and Brozdowski chat about Owen Caissie, Christian Franklin, DJ Herz and Jordan Nwogu. They discuss Caissie’s Canadian high school roots and his cerebral approach to his swing and Franklin’s whirlwind last few months after being drafted in the 4th round by the Cubs this July. They also dig into Herz’s heart-warming hometown start, his recent promotion to South Bend and Nwogu’s relationship with Howard. Then, Coach Hurry’s details what stands out about Howard’s on and off-field talents and how big of an impact he’s had on Mt. Carmel’s baseball program. And Ed Howard chats about his acclimation to Class A from high school, how much the Cubs mean to the city of Chicago and the close circle of support he relies on for motivation. | |||