Bleacher Bunch Network: A Chicago Cubs Podcast

Johnny Onomatopoeia joins Danny Rockett to talk about where the Nationals are in their rebuild in comparison to the Cubs, and then Rogelio Castillo from the Motor City Metrics podcast comes on to talk Tigers. More at http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🎙️ CubsPS+ #109: Cade Horton, Pitch Counts, and Pitching Depth w/ Bryan Smith This week, I welcomed back Bryan Smith (@cubprospects) to dive deep into Cade Horton’s development, minor league pitch counts, and how the Cubs are juggling a fragile pitching staff in 2025. Forget 109 pitches in a game—Bryan and I talk about why Horton never even touched 80 in the minors, and whether that’s coming back to bite him now in the big leagues. We also hit on how the Cubs are adjusting their development philosophy, what that means for the future, and how a guy like Ben Brown is outpacing expectations (and pitch limits). 🔹 What we covered: Why Cade Horton stopped at exactly 79 pitches... like, a lot How the Cubs’ minor league philosophy may have hurt—or helped—Horton’s MLB transition Pitching development: The evolution of workloads, pitch counts, and arm health The Tyler Zombro effect and how the Cubs are reshaping their bullpen weapons Insights on Ben Brown, Daniel Palencia, and Porter Hodge stepping up Current state of Cubs starting pitching depth—and why it’s dangerously thin Bryan's take on Iowa arms like Will Sanders, Peter Solomon, and who’s closest to Wrigley Why Jamo’s changeup might be influencing Cade Horton more than you think A fun riff on how scoring runs and hitting with RISP are actually good ideas! 🧠 Plus, we chat about the psychology of young pitchers, lessons from Little League arm care, and what the Cubs might do down the stretch with so many pitchers on innings limits. 💬 Join the conversation on BlueSky and the 1060West Discord with Bryan and other die-hard Cubs fans! 📲 Follow the show & never miss an episode: Twitter/X: @CubsPSplus @Bleacher_Bunch @Cubprospects Discord: 1060West community (ask for an invite!) and Bleacher Bunch (become a Patreon supporter!) 🧢 Go Cubs—and may our pitch counts rise carefully, and our playoff chances even more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friend of the pod, Sandy Marchetti was a guest on a radio program and I got permission to post it to the Bleacher Bunch because I thought that maybe our listeners would like to hear more about Sandy's new book, Diorama straight from the Poet herself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 2025 Chicago Cubs are playing with energy, swagger, and a sense of purpose — and yes, they’re FUN again. In this episode of Bricks Behind the Ivy, host Jeff Ragauskis breaks down 3 key reasons why this team is a blast to watch. From young stars stepping up to clubhouse chemistry and strong leadership, we’re diving into what’s changed and why you should be excited. 💬 Let us know what YOU think makes this Cubs team fun in the comments! 🎥 Subscribe to your YouTube Channel -https://www.youtube.com/@bleacher_bunch_network 🏟️Looking for Bricks Behind the Ivy? ⚾️ Follow us on Twitter - https://twitter.com/bbti_pod ⚾️Follow Us on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bricks_behind_the_ivy ⚾️Follow Candidcubs on Twitter - https://twitter.com/candidcubs ⚾️Follow BBTI on Blue Sky! - https://bsky.app/profile/bbti-pod.bsky.social 🏟️Looking for Bleacher Bunch? ⚾️ Follow us on Twitter - https://x.com/Bleacher_Bunch ⚾️Follow Us on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bleacher_bunch/ ⚾️Follow on Blue Sky! - https://bsky.app/profile/bleacherbunch.bsky.social ⚾️Join our ad-free Patreon! - https://patreon.com/bleacherbunch ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ 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 ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ Buy all of your Cubs memorabilia from Wrigleyville Sports! Use code "IVY10" at checkout for 10% off! Shop here today! - https://www.wrigleyvillesports.com/ ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ #chicagocubspodcast #chicagocubspodcastyoutube #chicagocubs #BricksBehindTheIvy #bleacherbunch #CubsFanContent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this Memorial Day special episode of Bricks Behind the Ivy, host Jeffrey Ragauskis sits down with Bob Kendrick, President of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, for an unforgettable conversation on the importance of honoring baseball’s history. We explore the stories of Negro League legends, the power of preserving their legacy, and how the past continues to shape the game today. This episode is a tribute to those who paved the way — on and off the field. We learn of Bob's "fanboy" moment with the great Henry Aaron, and the appreciation of getting a hot dog paired with a ball game 🎥 Subscribe to your YouTube Channel - / @bleacher_bunch_network 🏟️Looking for Bricks Behind the Ivy? ⚾️ Follow us on Twitter - / bbti_pod ⚾️Follow Us on Instagram - / bricks_behind_the_ivy ⚾️Follow Candidcubs on Twitter - / candidcubs ⚾️Follow BBTI on Blue Sky! - https://bsky.app/profile/bbti-pod.bsk... 🏟️Looking for Bleacher Bunch? ⚾️ Follow us on Twitter - https://x.com/Bleacher_Bunch ⚾️Follow Us on Instagram - / bleacher_bunch ⚾️Follow on Blue Sky! - https://bsky.app/profile/bleacherbunc... ⚾️Join our ad-free Patreon! - / bleacherbunch ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ 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=Bricks... ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ Buy all of your Cubs memorabilia from Wrigleyville Sports! Use code "IVY10" at checkout for 10% off! Shop here today! - https://www.wrigleyvillesports.com/ ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ #chicagocubspodcast #chicagocubspodcastyoutube #chicagocubs #BricksBehindTheIvy #bleacherbunch #CubsFanContent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sara and Danny welcome Wrigley Vendor Jewish Jonah, and Reds fan comedian Billy Devore as we talk about this particular moment in Cubs baseball fandom. More at http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cotton goes down the Rabbithole on MVPs and finds out that even though the list goes back to the early 1900s, they weren't actually all MVPs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Reds Fan Comedian Billy Devore stops by to discuss how the series is looking so far. The White Sox are still worse than the incoming Rockies. And we see who has been "Raking, Flaking, Throwing, and Blowing" this season. More Son Ranto http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's all hands on deck talking Cubs in a Bleacher Bunch Roundtable until Billy Devore shows up and makes it all about the Reds. Premium Content at http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Has the Crosstown Classic lost its heat? Jeff “CandidCubs” Ragauskis dives into why Cubs vs. White Sox games might not matter like they used to. From team performance to fan expectations, we ask the hard question: do these games still mean anything? Tap into weekly Cubs talk, exclusive interviews, and fan-first analysis right here on Bricks Behind the Ivy. #ChicagoCubs #WhiteSox #CrosstownClassic #MLBrivalry #BricksBehindTheIvy 🎥 Subscribe to your YouTube Channel - / @bleacher_bunch_network 🏟️Looking for Bricks Behind the Ivy? ⚾️ Follow us on Twitter - / bbti_pod ⚾️Follow Us on Instagram - / bricks_behind_the_ivy ⚾️Follow Candidcubs on Twitter - / candidcubs ⚾️Follow BBTI on Blue Sky! - https://bsky.app/profile/bbti-pod.bsk... 🏟️Looking for Bleacher Bunch? ⚾️ Follow us on Twitter - https://x.com/Bleacher_Bunch ⚾️Follow Us on Instagram - / bleacher_bunch ⚾️Follow on Blue Sky! - https://bsky.app/profile/bleacherbunc... ⚾️Join our ad-free Patreon! - / bleacherbunch ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ 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=Bricks... ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ Buy all of your Cubs memorabilia from Wrigleyville Sports! Use code "IVY10" at checkout for 10% off! Shop here today! - https://www.wrigleyvillesports.com/ ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ #chicagocubspodcast #chicagocubspodcastyoutube #chicagocubs #BricksBehindTheIvy #bleacherbunch #CubsFanContent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sean Guest from Bat Flips and Nerds joins Michael and Danny to recap his week in Chicago watching Cubs Baseball. Then we take a spin of the B-Clock and Rant! Ad-Free And Exclusive Bleacher Bunch at http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The vibes are high at Wrigley! Justin Turner delivers a dramatic walk-off single to beat the Marlins, and Cubs top prospect Moises Ballesteros makes his MLB debut—what a night on the North Side. In this live postgame episode of Bricks Behind the Ivy, we react to all the key moments from the game, including: ⚾️ Turner’s clutch performance 🎉 Ballesteros’ big league arrival 🔥 Seiya Suzuki and Ian Happ staying hot 💥 Bullpen concerns (again…) 👀 What this win means for the Cubs’ momentum going forward 🧱 Whether you’re celebrating the walk-off or hyped about the future, we’ve got you covered in this instant reaction episode. 📢 Don’t forget to like, comment & subscribe for weekly Cubs coverage! 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & all major platforms 📱 Follow us on TikTok, Instagram, Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Spanish Language Voice of the Cubs Miguel Esparza joins Danny to talk about signing the stretch and interacting with the Spanish speaking players. Then Sox fan Loren Freeman talks about the team he hates to love. Support independent Cubs podcasting http://www.patreon.com/sonranto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs are 38 games into the season — and it’s time to hand out some grades! 📝 This week on Bricks Behind the Ivy, Pat Eriksen is joined by Cole Wright from Marquee Sports Network to break down the first quarter of the Cubs’ 2025 campaign. Together, they grade: 🔥 The bullpen – consistent or concerning? 💥 The offense – enough firepower? 🎯 The starting rotation – can it survive without Steele? 🧤 The defense – elite or error-prone? Plus, Cole shares insights on covering the team from inside Marquee, what it’s like being around the club daily, and why Cubs baseball is truly one of a kind. 📲 Watch now and subscribe for weekly Cubs insight, stories, and fan-driven analysis. 🎧 Also available wherever you get your podcasts — and don’t forget: 💬 Leave a review with #Brickhead to enter to win a free Bricks Behind the Ivy T-shirt! 🎥 Subscribe to your YouTube Channel - / @bleacher_bunch_network 🏟️Looking for Bricks Behind the Ivy? ⚾️ Follow us on Twitter - / bbti_pod ⚾️Follow Us on Instagram - / bricks_behind_the_ivy ⚾️Follow Candidcubs on Twitter - / candidcubs ⚾️Follow BBTI on Blue Sky! - https://bsky.app/profile/bbti-pod.bsk... 🏟️Looking for Bleacher Bunch? ⚾️ Follow us on Twitter - https://x.com/Bleacher_Bunch ⚾️Follow Us on Instagram - / bleacher_bunch ⚾️Follow on Blue Sky! - https://bsky.app/profile/bleacherbunc... ⚾️Join our ad-free Patreon! - / bleacherbunch ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ 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=Bricks... ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ Buy all of your Cubs memorabilia from Wrigleyville Sports! Use code "IVY10" at checkout for 10% off! Shop here today! - https://www.wrigleyvillesports.com/ ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ #chicagocubspodcast #chicagocubspodcastyoutube #chicagocubs #BricksBehindTheIvy #bleacherbunch #CubsFanContent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Son Ranto Show takes the Bleacher Bunch slot for as conversation about the Chicago Pope and Cade Horton's call-ups. And we talk to Mets fan Uncle Mike! http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch FREE TRIALS AVAILABLE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's time for Cade Horton. Sara Sanchez and Danny Rockett discuss. Join us for early and ad-free listening! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bleacher Bunch celebrates Lee Elia Day with the Ranters rendition of the famous rant from 1983, then Cotton talks with Liz Johnson about her scorecards that she makes as well as her time working with the Orioles and MASN. Check out her baseball scorecards at https://diamondscorecard.company.site/ . Then Jeff Ragauskis joins to talk Pirates, Brewers, and MLB the Show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Bricks Behind the Ivy, we’re joined by Ant Ortiz, a rising voice in the MLB The Show content scene. Ant shares his baseball origin story (1:52), and then we dive into a full scouting report on MLB The Show 24 using a baseball theme: from a Single (4:28), to a Double (12:55), a Triple (24:59), and finally a Home Run (43:54). We also get the inside scoop on Ant’s creative process and his journey in building a community around the game (8:20). Whether you’re a diehard Cubs fan, a baseball gamer, or just curious how digital and real diamond worlds intersect, this one’s for you. 🎥 Subscribe to your YouTube Channel -https://www.youtube.com/bleacher_bunch_network 🏟️Looking for Bricks Behind the Ivy? ⚾️Follow Us on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bricks_behind_the_ivy ⚾️Follow Candidcubs on Twitter - https://twitter.com/candidcubs ⚾️Follow BBTI on Blue Sky! - https://bsky.app/profile/bbti-pod.bsky.social 🏟️Looking for Bleacher Bunch? ⚾️ Follow us on Twitter - https://x.com/Bleacher_Bunch ⚾️Follow Us on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bleacher_bunch/ ⚾️Follow on Blue Sky! - https://bsky.app/profile/bleacherbunch.bsky.social ⚾️Join our ad-free Patreon! - https://patreon.com/bleacherbunch ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ 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 ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ Buy all of your Cubs memorabilia from Wrigleyville Sports! Shop here today! - https://www.wrigleyvillesports.com/ ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ #chicagocubspodcast #chicagocubspodcastyoutube #chicagocubs #BricksBehindTheIvy #bleacherbunch #CubsFanContent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 108 – Cubs Bullpen: Just Noise or Time to Panic? I kicked off the episode by celebrating one of the most infamous moments in Cubs history: Lee Elia’s legendary 1983 postgame rant. If you’ve never heard it, do yourself a favor and look it up — it’s a time capsule of frustration, profanity, and peak Cubs lore. Then I pivoted to the present: the Cubs are 17-12 after surviving a brutal April schedule. Not a single game against a losing team until this series in Pittsburgh — that’s wild. I talked through why I’m actually encouraged by this start — especially considering we’ve already seen the Dodgers, Padres, Diamondbacks, and Rangers. No cupcake wins in that bunch. The offense has been carrying the load — leading MLB in runs scored and ranking top five in most categories. Pitching? That’s where it gets interesting. Let’s talk bullpen: There’s panic out there, and I get it — but I dug into the numbers and game logs to get a clearer picture of what’s actually happening. I broke down every blown save so far — who they’re charged to, how they happened, and why that stat doesn’t always mean what fans think it does. I showed how a single bad outing is inflating ERAs for guys like Porter Hodge and Brad Keller — and why Hodge, in particular, has actually been solid outside of one meltdown. I walked through game-by-game bullpen usage during the last homestand to separate emotion from results. Some of those wins? The bullpen locked it down. I compared this group to last year’s disaster — and while they’re walking too many guys and not getting enough strikeouts, it’s not the same situation as 2024. At least not yet. Where we go from here: I talked about who I trust in the late innings right now (spoiler: it’s not just Presley), and why the Cubs need to keep cycling through arms until they find the right mix. I gave Jed some criticism for not doing more in the offseason — but also credit for being aggressive with early call-ups and DFA moves. I touched on David Robertson rumors, why adding starting depth could actually help the bullpen, and what internal options might emerge. Finally, I looked ahead to May — the schedule softens up, and if this team keeps doing what it did in April against easier opponents, we might just stay on top of the division. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Danny sings the anthem, as the Cubs drop 2 of 3 to the fighting Phils. Then Bryan the Pirates fan stops by to explain why his team sucks. Support independent Cubs podcasting! http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cubs poet laureate Sandra Marchetti joins Sara, IFG, and Danny to celebrate the Cubs beating the deferred Dodgers this week. Support the Bleacher Bunch http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch Check out Sandra's new poetry books! https://amzn.to/4jJ5MTz https://amzn.to/3GrfATe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Bricks Behind the Ivy, we’re brewing up a hot one just like a fresh cup of Yaggy Road Roasting coffee! ☕️ 📣 First up — we’re excited to announce a new way to support the show and score some exclusive merch: Leave a review for Bricks Behind the Ivy on your favorite podcast platform, include #Brickhead in the review, and you’ll automatically be entered to become our Brick Head of the Week! The winner gets a free Bricks Behind the Ivy t-shirt, and of course, a shoutout on the show. ⏱️ Then, it’s the Yaggy Road Roasting Box Score Blitz — our 60-second Cubs recap covering the week that was on the North Side. From walk-offs to weather delays, we’ve got you caught up in a flash. 🏆 We crown our Wrigleyville Sports Player and Pitcher of the Week, spotlighting standout performances and those rising to the occasion with the Cubs battling through injuries and inconsistency. ⚾ Pat takes us back in time ...to Friday of last week...to discuss a historic showdown at Wrigley Field between the Cubs and Diamondbacks. Even after 100 years, still new history happens at Wrigley! 🚨 And with Justin Steele officially out for the year, Jeff breaks down potential arms the Cubs should be targeting to reinforce the rotation. Who can step up and keep this team contending in the NL Central? 🎥 Subscribe to your YouTube Channel -https://www.youtube.com/@bleacher_bunch_network 🏟️Looking for Bricks Behind the Ivy? ⚾️ Follow us on Twitter - https://twitter.com/bbti_pod ⚾️Follow Us on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bricks_behind_the_ivy ⚾️Follow Candidcubs on Twitter - https://twitter.com/candidcubs ⚾️Follow BBTI on Blue Sky! - https://bsky.app/profile/bbti-pod.bsky.social 🏟️Looking for Bleacher Bunch? ⚾️ Follow us on Twitter - https://x.com/Bleacher_Bunch ⚾️Follow Us on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bleacher_bunch/ ⚾️Follow on Blue Sky! - https://bsky.app/profile/bleacherbunch.bsky.social ⚾️Join our ad-free Patreon! - https://patreon.com/bleacherbunch ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎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 ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎Buy all of your Cubs memorabilia from Wrigleyville Sports! Shop here today! - https://www.wrigleyvillesports.com/ ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steele's Out. Shaw's Gone. And the games have gone crazy on this weeks Son Ranto Show, where we Danny, Lyle, and Michael take a spin of the wheel of Cubs grievances. Support independent Cubs podcasts. http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael takes us all down the Baseball Rabbithole into another dimension in which the dimensions of ballparks are probably not what you expected. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Danny Rockett hosts Cubs Insider's Evan Altman and Ballparks on a Budget's Amy Zeiher. Support Independant Cubs Podcasting! http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🎙️ Bricks Behind the Ivy – A Cubs podcast for Cub fans, by Cub fans. This week, we’re joined by Greg Huss, host of Cubs On Deck, for a full rundown of the Cubs minor league system. From the raw talent in Myrtle Beach to the MLB-ready players in Iowa, Greg highlights the top names to watch at every affiliate — and what their paths to Wrigley might look like. 🚨 Minor League Affiliate Rundown: Myrtle Beach Pelicans South Bend Cubs Tennessee Smokies Iowa Cubs Presented by: 👕 Wrigleyville Sports – Fast, custom Cubs jerseys right across from Wrigley Field. ☕ Box Score Blitz is powered by Yaggy Road Roasting Company – boutique coffee from Valpo, made as special as the moments you drink them in. 💬 Let us know: Who’s your favorite Cubs prospect right now? ⭐ Don’t forget to rate, review, and follow to help more fans find the show! 📺 Catch full episodes on The Bleacher Bunch Network on YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sara and Danny are back as their attempt at positivity goes awry with the mixed bag Cubs. Support CCB and all the great shows on the Bleacher Bunch Network. http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch for bonus content! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🎙️ Bricks Behind the Ivy – S2E13: Cubs Climb? Counsell’s Choices, Extensions, & Blitz Breakdown! Hey hey, Brickheads! On this week’s episode of Bricks Behind the Ivy, we take you inside the latest from the Friendly Confines — including big moments from the Cubs’ week, a Box Score Blitz recap, and standout performances that earned Player and Pitcher of the Week honors. We also talk about the big picture: 📈 What does Kyle Tucker’s extension mean for the market? 🖊️ Should the Cubs lock up Pete Crow-Armstrong now? Plus, we break down Craig Counsell’s impact, injury news, and where the Cubs stand in the NL Central race. ☕ Box Score Blitz is fueled by Yaggy Road Roasting Company — boutique coffee from Valparaiso that brings more energy than a leadoff double. 👕 Proudly sponsored by Wrigleyville Sports, located right across from Wrigley Field — home of fast, custom Cubs jerseys made for gameday. ⏱️ Jump to a Segment: 00:04:29 – ⚾ Box Score Blitz (Powered by Yaggy Road Roasting) 00:05:47 – 🧩 Other Cubs Topics (Craig Counsell’s moves, injuries, and extension talk) 00:06:54 – 📊 Standings Update 00:14:14 – 🏆 Wrigleyville Sports Player & Pitcher of the Week 🎥 Subscribe to your YouTube Channel -https://www.youtube.com/@bleacher_bunch_network 🏟️Looking for Bricks Behind the Ivy? ⚾️ Follow us on Twitter - https://twitter.com/bbti_pod ⚾️Follow Us on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bricks_behind_the_ivy ⚾️Follow Candidcubs on Twitter - https://twitter.com/candidcubs ⚾️Follow BBTI on Blue Sky! - https://bsky.app/profile/bbti-pod.bsky.social 🏟️Looking for Bleacher Bunch? ⚾️ Follow us on Twitter - https://x.com/Bleacher_Bunch ⚾️Follow Us on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bleacher_bunch/ ⚾️Follow on Blue Sky! - https://bsky.app/profile/bleacherbunch.bsky.social ⚾️Join our ad-free Patreon! - https://patreon.com/bleacherbunch ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ 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 ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Summary: This week, I'm joined once again by Bleed Cubbie Blue's Sara Sanchez to run back one of their favorite offseason exercises: rebuilding Jed Hoyer’s winter—within real-world limits. No extra spending. No fantasy trade machines. Just the actual signings, the real budgets, and some sharper roster decisions. If Jed had done things a little differently… could this team have been even better heading into 2025? Let’s find out. 🔍 What You’ll Hear This Episode: 🧩 The Ground Rules Every player must be signed at their actual 2024-25 deal Total budget capped under the CBT Cubs moves can be kept or replaced—but not rewritten No hypothetical trades allowed (sorry, no Soto deals) 🔄 The Kyle Tucker Trade: Keep It or Rewind? Both hosts start with a shared assumption: Tucker stays But what about the price—Cam Smith vs. Matt Shaw? Is an extension now in the works… and what would it mean? ❌ Bellinger’s Future: On the Roster or Cashed Out? One host keeps Bellinger—and uses him to deepen the bench The other trades him—and spends the cash immediately Two paths, two very different Cubs rosters 🔥 Pitching Picks: Safe Bets or Big Swings? One side goes bold with a top-of-market starter The other builds depth with three arms for less money Which bullpen duo did both agree on skipping? 🎯 The Bullpen Fix Forget Presley and Teelbar—there were better options out there See who got signed, for how much, and who has closer experience Did Jed aim too low when the Cubs needed late-inning reliability? 🧢 Catcher Carousel: One Popular Signing Gets Swapped One veteran got replaced by a proven glove-first backstop Another move brings in more offense and framing Who got cut? Who got trusted? And what about Amaya? 📋 Bench Battles & Utility Choices Gage Workman stays—but does he play? One roster added a $1M corner bat The other opted for a more versatile veteran with playoff chops 🧮 Roster Recaps & Budget Check-Ins: 💼 Rotation Headlines Who brought in Walker Buehler on a 1-year prove-it deal? Who bet on Cal Quantrill and a young core instead? 🛠️ Bullpen Anchors AJ Minter, Carlos Estévez, Chris Martin, Ryan Stanek… Only a few were chosen—but which duo got the nod? 🧠 Bench Construction Why Ty France might be a better play than Justin Turner Where Jonathan India slots into one version of the roster Why keeping Alexander Canario could’ve changed the outfield picture 🧾 Final Thoughts What happens at the trade deadline if money’s still on the table? Which reworked roster looks better on paper—and on the field? And what would it take to make Kyle Tucker a Cub for life? 🎧 Listen & Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts If you enjoy the show, don’t forget to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review! Let us know which version of Jed’s offseason you would’ve chosen—and who nailed it in this exercise. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs put the biggest Los Angeles beatdown of the Dodgers in franchise history, but lose their Ace pitcher and DH bat. Giveth and taketh. Early and Ad Free listening, plus Premium content when you subscribe, http://www.patreon.com/sonranto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jorge Moreno from the Cubs spanish language radio broadcast joins Cotton and Rockett to talk Cubs wins at the cold confines. Plus, which Cubs players Rake, Flake, throw, and Blow? and Danny get hit in the head with an Ian Happ tossed ball. Join us! http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs go 5-1 this week and the vibes at Wrigley are turning 🔥 In this episode of Bricks Behind the Ivy, hosts Jeff “CandidCubs” Ragauskis and Pat Eriksen from Wrigley Fire Bar & Grill break down what’s clicking on the North Side, highlight Carson Kelly’s surprise cycle, and dive into what this momentum could mean for the Cubs’ season. Presented by Wrigleyville Sports and Yaggy Road Roasting Company. 📌 Topics include: – Cubs’ 5-1 week vs Athletics & Padres – Carson Kelly’s cycle 🤯 – Lineup questions and pitching praise – Can the Cubs sustain this hot streak? 🎧 Subscribe for weekly Cubs coverage from The Bleacher Bunch Network – made for fans, by fans. #ChicagoCubs #CubsPodcast #BricksBehindTheIvy #MLB #GoCubsGo #WrigleyField #CubsWin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs have won 5 straight as they continue their April march through the toughest schedule in baseball. Support independent podcasting http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Crawly shares his Opening Day adventures and Guy Serious from Bleacher Bum Band comes by to talk Cubs and being one of Danny Rockett's oldest friends. Support Independent Cubs Podcasting http://www.patreon.com/sonranto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs’ bullpen is handing out free passes like it’s a charity event, and it’s costing them big. In this episode of Bricks Behind the Ivy, we dive into the latest bullpen meltdowns, what’s causing all these walks, and whether there’s a fix in sight. 🔥 Box Score Blitz – A lightning-fast recap of the Cubs’ latest action. 🍻 Deep Thoughts with Harry Caray – What would Harry say about all these free passes? Let’s find out! ⚾ Bullpen Breakdown – Who’s the biggest culprit? Who (if anyone) can stop the bleeding? Drop your thoughts in the comments—can the Cubs turn it around, or is this just who they are? Let’s talk Cubs baseball! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Miguel Amaya hits incredibly, gets benched. Welcome to your 2025 Cubs. Early and ad free access when you support the Bleacher Bunch for only 1 dollar at http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch FREE TRIALS AVAILABLE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Bleacher Bunch Crew teams up for a pre-game preview of the Cubs and Diamondbacks game, series and overall Cubs season. Early and Ad-Free listening plus exclusive content when you subscribe. Http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Summary: I’m back after a few hectic weeks, and with Opening Day (for most of MLB) here, it felt like the perfect time to drop a season preview episode! This one’s a little shorter, but I wanted to break down the Cubs’ final 26-man roster, talk through what went right and wrong this offseason, and give you my predictions for 2025. I also dive into how I’m approaching this season personally—falling back in love with baseball after a stressful winter, enjoying the game wherever I can find it, and just appreciating the ride. Cubs, college ball, high school, youth leagues—I’m all in. Let’s talk expectations, roster surprises, and whether this team has what it takes to win the division and make a deep postseason run. ⚾️ What I Cover in This Episode: 🔹 Final 26-Man Roster Breakdown Ben Brown named 5th starter Matthew Boyd & Brad Keller win rotation and bullpen spots Ryan Brasier and Tyson Miller to the IL, Vidal Brujan and Keegan Thompson off the roster Gage Workman makes the team via Rule 5, beats out Brujan 🔹 Rotation Outlook Steele, Shōta, Taillon, Boyd, Brown Upside in Boyd & Brown, but can they stay healthy? Depth from Wicks, Assad, and Horton could prove crucial Why I expect Shōta to regress slightly but still be effective 🔹 Bullpen Depth Is a Strength Presley, Merriweather, Hodge, Morgan, Pearson, Teelbar, Keller, Ray Merriweather looks sharp again Cubs have tons of “big guy, throws hard” arms in Iowa ready to rotate in 🔹 Lineup & Bench: Better Than 2024? Tucker > Bellinger (a clear upgrade) Swanson & Nico healthy again = huge boost Shaw at 3B will have growing pains, but the tools are there Bench of Turner, Birdi, Workman, and Kelly gives Craig Counsell flexibility Cubs have more options than they’ve had in years 🔹 The Cody Poteet DFA: A Curious Move Cubs basically dumped Bellinger’s contract for Poteet… and now he’s gone Shows the value they see in Brad Keller 📈 Season Preview & Predictions Cubs win 91 games and take the NL Central crown Brewers (86 wins) and Reds (85) keep it close Cubs’ depth & financial flexibility will let them improve at the deadline If they need an arm? Think Sandy Alcántara-type trade April is a gauntlet, but May gets easier 🧢 Personal Goals for 2025 Watch the Cubs as much as I can—but also Appreciate baseball at every level: MLB, college, high school, youth This is my reset year. I’m in it for the love of the game Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bricks Behind the Ivy – Cardinals Season Preview ⚾🔥 It’s time to break down the Cubs’ biggest rival – the St. Louis Cardinals! In this episode of Bricks Behind the Ivy, we analyze what’s ahead for the Redbirds in 2025. 🔹 Topics Covered: ✅ Key offseason moves and roster changes ✅ Strengths, weaknesses, and X-factors for the season ✅ How the Cardinals stack up against the Cubs ✅ Predictions for the NL Central race Will St. Louis bounce back this season, or are they set for another disappointing year? We’ve got all the insights you need! 🎧 Subscribe and join the conversation! #Cubs #Cardinals #MLB #BricksBehindTheIvy #NLCentral 🎥 Subscribe to your YouTube Channel -https://www.youtube.com/@bleacher_bunch_network 🏟️Looking for Bricks Behind the Ivy? ⚾️ Follow us on Twitter - https://twitter.com/bbti_pod ⚾️Follow Us on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bricks_behind_the_ivy ⚾️Follow Candidcubs on Twitter - https://twitter.com/candidcubs ⚾️Follow BBTI on Blue Sky! - https://bsky.app/profile/bbti-pod.bsky.social 🏟️Looking for Bleacher Bunch? ⚾️ Follow us on Twitter - https://x.com/Bleacher_Bunch ⚾️Follow Us on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bleacher_bunch/ ⚾️Follow on Blue Sky! - https://bsky.app/profile/bleacherbunch.bsky.social ⚾️Join our ad-free Patreon! - https://patreon.com/bleacherbunch ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ 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 ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ Buy all of your Cubs memorabilia from Wrigleyville Sports! Use code "IVY10" at checkout for 10% off! Shop here today! - https://www.wrigleyvillesports.com/ ⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎⚾︎ #chicagocubspodcast #chicagocubspodcastyoutube #chicagocubs #BricksBehindTheIvy #bleacherbunch #CubsFanContent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us for a live and uncut episode of Bricks Behind the Ivy! 🎙️⚾ We break down the latest Chicago Cubs news, discuss the team’s future, and bring you exclusive insights from Cubs insiders. 🔹 Special Segments in This Episode: ✔️ Deep Thoughts with Harry Caray – The legendary voice of the Cubs stops by! ✔️ Firehouse Cubs Talk – Pat Eriksen joins us live from the firehouse for a unique perspective on the Cubs. ✔️ Live fan Q&A & unfiltered Cubs discussion 🎧 Subscribe for more Cubs talk! Made by Cubs fans, for Cubs fans! #Cubs #BricksBehindTheIvy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From trees stumps, to mom porn to the B-Clock, the Son Ranto Show is somehow a Cubs podcast. Early and ad free access when you support the Bleacher Bunch for only 1 dollar at http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch FREE TRIALS AVAILABLE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bleacher Jeff joins the show and then another Jeff, of the Ragauskis variety, joins from Bricks Behind the Ivy. Finally, Jonah from Metropolitan Tenants Organization joins to talk about Just Cause and being in High School when the Cubs won the World Series. Join us for exclusive content! http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🚨 Chicago Cubs 2025 Season Preview | Special Guest: Cole Wright (Marquee Network) 🚨 The wait is over, Cubs fans! ⚾ In this episode of Bricks Behind the Ivy, we wrap up our NL Central Preview by focusing on the most important team—your Chicago Cubs! 🐻💙 Joining us is Marquee Network’s Cole Wright, as we break down: ✅ The Cubs’ 2025 season outlook 🔍 ✅ Japan Series excitement & early season impact 🇯🇵 ✅ Key players to watch & roster expectations 👀 ✅ How the Cubs stack up in the NL Central 🏆 By the time you’re watching this, the Cubs will have already played in Japan—but there’s a long road ahead! Get expert analysis, bold predictions, and all the latest Cubs insights. 💬 Drop your predictions in the comments! Will the Cubs take the division? 🔔 Subscribe to The Bleacher Bunch for more Cubs content: [Insert Channel Link] 📢 Follow us on social: [Insert Social Links] #ChicagoCubs #BricksBehindTheIvy #MLB #CubsBaseball #ColeWright #CubsSeasonPreview #GoCubsGo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sara Sanchez and Danny Rockett discuss all things Cubs in Japan. Early and Ad Free CCB when you subscribe at http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sara and Danny welcome Comedian Ken Schultz from Out Sports to talk Cubs in Japan and this year's vanilla team. Then Infield Fly Girl stops by to get us ready for the big games in Japan! Early and ad free access when you support the Bleacher Bunch for only 1 dollar at http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch FREE TRIALS AVAILABLE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Danny and Sara are back talking about stupid looking hats, and stupid Yadier Molina saying he wants to manage the Cubs. But the real question is...is it stupid to send the rookie Matt Shaw to Japan as he returns from an oblique injury? Early and ad free access when you support Cuppa Cubbie Blue by becoming a Super Ranter for only 1 dollar at http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch FREE TRIALS AVAILABLE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The NL Central battle is shaping up for 2025, and we’re diving deep into the Cincinnati Reds with special guest Andy Evans! 🏟️ We break down the Reds' offseason moves, key roster changes, and how they stack up against the Chicago Cubs this season. Can the Reds challenge for the division, or will the Cubs have the upper hand? Find out in this in-depth breakdown! 🔥 Topics Covered: ✅ Biggest Reds roster changes for 2025 ✅ Strengths & weaknesses heading into the season ✅ How the Cubs match up against their division rival ✅ Predictions for the NL Central race 🏆 Sponsored by Wrigleyville Sports & Yaggy Road Roasting Company ☕ 📺 Subscribe for more Cubs coverage! 🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Podbean & YouTube #ChicagoCubs #Cubs #CincinnatiReds #MLB #NLCentral #BaseballPodcast #BricksBehindTheIvy #GoCubsGo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs a cruising through Spring Training and are heading to Japan this next week. What can you expect from the trip halfway around the world? Plus, we take a spin of the B-Clock! Early and ad free access when you support the Son Ranto Show by becoming a Super Ranter for only 1 dollar at http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch FREE TRIALS AVAILABLE! Buy your shirts here http://www.intheclutch.com/sonranto CODE "SONRANTO" for 10% Off! Buy your tickets here http://www.sonranto.com/tickets Buy your gear here http://www.sonranto.com/shopping Buy your Amazon here http://www.sonranto.com/stuff Buy more shirts here http://www.sonranto.com/swag Listen to Bleacher Bum Band! https://open.spotify.com/album/0gedLl... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WHOOOPSSS!!! FORGOT TO POST THIS EPISODE!!! A LOOK BACK..... Football Season is over and Pitchers and Catchers report to Spring Training! Baseball is here! For early and ad-free Bleacher Bunch. Subscribe to our Patreon campaign. Subscribe free at any of these fine podcasting establishments: Apple Podcasts, Spotify. Watch us record live on X, Facebook, YouTube, Twitch and the Son Ranto Show site. Follow us! Facebook, BlueSky, Insta, TikTok. Buy your shirts here http://www.intheclutch.com/sonranto CODE "SONRANTO" for 10% Off! Buy your tickets here http://www.sonranto.com/tickets Buy your gear here http://www.sonranto.com/shopping Buy your Amazon here http://www.sonranto.com/stuff Buy more shirts here http://www.sonranto.com/swag Listen to Bleacher Bum Band! https://open.spotify.com/album/0gedLl... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Danny Rockett gets a visit from two Joes and a Jeff, as Obvious Shirts Joe, Tik Tok creator Wrigleyville Bum, and BBTI's Jeff Ragauskis join the Bleacher Bunch to talk Cubs Spring and Obvious's new Bleacher Bum Shirts! Early and ad free access when you support the Son Ranto Show by becoming a Super Ranter for only 1 dollar at http://www.patreon.com/bleacherbunch FREE TRIALS AVAILABLE! Buy your shirts here http://www.intheclutch.com/sonranto CODE "SONRANTO" for 10% Off! Buy your tickets here http://www.sonranto.com/tickets Buy your gear here http://www.sonranto.com/shopping Buy your Amazon here http://www.sonranto.com/stuff Buy more shirts here http://www.sonranto.com/swag Listen to Bleacher Bum Band! https://open.spotify.com/album/0gedLl... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices