Cubs Talk Podcast

As Cubs spring training continues in Mesa, Arizona, a position battle to look out for is second base. Nico Hoerner is one candidate, but David Bote and Ildemaro Vargas are in the picture as well. Gordon Wittenmyer, live from Mesa, joins David Kaplan, Maddie Lee, and Tim Stebbins to discuss the Cubs' second base picture and whether Hoerner can win the job. Later in the podcast, the crew discusses the Cubs' need for a more diverse lineup and how they feel about being projected to finish near the bottom of the division this season. (2:00) - Is second base Nico Hoerner's job to lose? (6:30) - Is David Bote getting overlooked at second base? (11:06) - The over/under for the Cubs this season has been set at 79 wins. Is that too low? (16:00) - How do Cubs players feel about low outside expectations for this season? (20:10) - Jed Hoyer could have tough decisions to make if the Cubs start off slow

In Tuesday's spring training report, Gordon Wittenmyer and Maddie Lee discuss the sights and sounds from Mesa, Ariz. in Day 2 of Cubs camp. Gordon and Maddie discuss the big topic of the day — Cubs pitcher Adbert Alzolay — who says he is ready for the opportunity to prove he belongs in the starting rotation. Later, they discuss Ian Happ's start to spring training and his thoughts on Kevin Mather's comments on service time, with Happ being the Cubs' players union representative. Make sure to subscribe for daily spring training reports.

Today is the first installment of the Cubs spring training report, featuring David Kaplan, Gordon Wittenmyer, and Maddie Lee. Anthony Rizzo spoke to the media for the first time since last season, and he had thoughts. The Cubs Talk crew reacts to Rizzo discussing his contract situation, his thoughts on Kevin Mather's incriminating comments about bad-faith industry practices and explains why this Cubs team needs to prove that they can win to the fans.

With Fernando Tatis Jr. receiving a HUGE extension to remain a Padre up until I become a Padre (producer Tony here), San Diego has a payroll comparable to teams in big markets like Chicago. The Cubs Talk crew of David Kaplan, Maddie Lee, Tim Stebbins, and Gordon Wittenmyer discuss Tatis' deal and compare it to how the Cubs are managing their budget and roster. Later in the podcast, the crew discusses who on the Cubs could be in line for an extension. Javy Báez? Anthony Rizzo? Kris Bryant? The crew also breaks down if there are any more pitching additions on the horizon for the Cubs. (1:43) - Fernando Tatis Jr. reaches massive extension with San Diego. Do you like the deal? But also, how in the hell do the Padres have two players signed for over $300 million? (6:16) - Fourteen years is a long time. The deal is good for baseball, but the length could be risky. What is a normal deal for someone at Tatis' skill level? (16:00) - If the number to extend Rizzo is $175 million for seven years, are you doing it? (22:20) - Are Cubs done adding pitchers? (26:25) - Is the bullpen strong enough to win? (29:57) - Does Pedro Strop make the Cubs roster?

Spring training is underway and there are questions about the Cubs' 2021 outlook. President of baseball operations Jed Hoyer and manager David Ross addressed the media as camp opened to discuss how they view the team, if they are done adding to the roster and if trades could still be on the table for a few core players, most notably former MVP Kris Bryant. The Cubs Talk crew of David Kaplan, Gordon Wittenmyer, Maddie Lee, and Tim Stebbins discuss Hoyer and Ross' remarks and debate who had it the toughest taking over the Cubs: 2012 Theo Epstein or 2021 Jed Hoyer. (1:25) - Is the team coming to spring training the final roster, or are they looking to make more moves? (6:00) - Jake Arrieta is bringing a competitive fire the Cubs have been missing since he's been gone (12:00) - Which job is tougher: Theo Epstein taking over in 2012 and building the Cubs up to a World Series contender, or 2021 Jed Hoyer working through a rebuild? (25:35) - Jed Hoyer intends on sitting down with the core to discuss their futures. Who stays and who goes? (34:00) - Will Joc Pederson be the Cubs' leadoff hitter or will Ian Happ have that spot?

Jake Arrieta, the last Cubs pitcher to win a playoff game, is coming back to Wrigleyville on a one-year, $6 million dollar deal, NBC Sports Chicago confirmed. The Cubs Talk crew of David Kaplan, Tim Stebbins, and Gordon Wittenmyer discuss Arrieta's return to the Cubs and what he can bring to enhance the starting rotation. The crew also dives into whether the Cubs will add more pitching in free agency, if they have enough money to sign another pitcher and if this enough to win the division. (1:18) - Reactions to the Cubs signing Arrieta. What will they get from him? (7:30) - Is there a serviceable guy left on the market to add to the rotation? (11:50) - If this is the Opening Day team, are they good enough to win 85 games? (16:05) - Rank the top four trades of the Theo Epstein/Jed Hoyer Cubs era (24:00) - Where does Arrieta slot in the rotation?

Will Anthony Rizzo have his greatest season ever? Will the Cubs sign another starting pitcher and if so, who will they get? There are still questions around the Cubs as they get ready to start spring training. David Kaplan, Maddie Lee, Tim Stebbins, and Gordon Wittenmyer go over their predictions for spring training and discuss what they expect to happen before the regular season starts. The crew dives into a possible Kris Bryant trade to the Mets (yes, another KB trade rumor), the Cubs' 2021 game times being announced, and if Jake Arrieta has a chance to return to the North Side. (2:05) - PECOTA has the Cubs winning more games than the White Sox (5:52) - Do the Cubs have any more payroll flexibility? (10:43) - SNY's Andy Martino reports the Cubs and Mets are re-engaged on Kris Bryant trade talks. The Cubs are looking to get a very good player in the deal, but the Mets are not biting yet. (17:19) - Afternoon baseball is back at Wrigley with 47 afternoon home games scheduled this season! (19:31) - Pitchers and catchers report to camp this coming Tuesday. Are there any position battles or storylines that fans need to pay attention to? (26:04) - Any chance Jake Arrieta or James Paxton signs with the Cubs?

In the 1986-87 offseason, Andre Dawson made a move that changed baseball, joining the Cubs in free agency after battling collusion. David Kaplan and Gordon Wittenmyer sit down with Dawson to discuss that tough time and how he managed the era of collusion in baseball. They also discuss the importance of the black baseball players and the impact the black athlete has in America and the world. Later in the pod, the group discusses Dawson's time in the Marlins front office and the craziness of playing the Cubs in the 2003 postseason. (2:00) - Dawson discusses how he became a Cub and the collusion he was up against (11:20) - The similarities between his time as a free agent and the seemingly collusive time for free agents in recent years (18:30) - The impact black baseball players can have on kids looking to play baseball (31:50) - Any regrets in Dawson's career or anything he would have done differently? (35:30) - Cubs vs. Marlins in 2003 postseason and how he felt about the Cubs winning the World Series in 2016

The Cubs' biggest offseason move was upstaged by the Cardinals, but are there other moves they can make to round out the roster? David Kaplan, Gordon Wittenmyer, and Tim Stebbins discuss which areas of the roster the Cubs still need to address and how they can do so. Get your shopping lists out and let's see what we can find. (1:38) - The Cubs have young pitchers in the pipeline nearly ready for the big leagues, but they need to add at least one more veteran starter. (6:15) - If the Cubs need and are looking for veteran pitching, why didn't they make an offer to Jon Lester sooner? (9:45) - Based on what the Cubs have now, should they have brought José Quintana back? Who else is out there? (13:50) - Who plays second base: Nico Hoerner, or should they look for a veteran? (17:40) - Will the government get involved in making sure players get vaccinated?

Spring training is set to start on time in a couple of weeks but there are still uncertainties between the players and owners. David Kaplan, Maddie Lee, Gordon Wittenmyer, and Tim Stebbins discuss the union rejecting MLB's alternate plan for a delayed 154-game season, potential issues that still lie ahead before Opening Day on April 1, and what the relationship between the players and owners is like. Later in the podcast, the crew discusses the Cardinals' big trade for superstar Nolan Arenado. Did the Cards just become the favorite to win the NL Central? (1:40) - Players say no to the owners' proposal, so there will be a 162-game season that is scheduled to start on time (6:35) - COVID-19 is not going away during the 2021 season, so MLB may not reach 162 games anyway and will try to play as many games as they can. (11:00) - The universal DH should be here already. Owners are using it as a bargaining tool to obtain expanded playoffs. DH would benefit everyone -- teams and players. (13:40) - Why fans should be on the players' side (25:40) - Are the Cards division favorites after acquiring Nolan Arenado?

The Cubs finally made a significant offseason addition by signing outfielder Joc Pederson. According to David Kaplan, the Ricketts family expanded the Cubs' 2021 budget enough for Jed Hoyer to make the move. They're also looking to bring in more pitching and are scouting Jake Arrieta and Jeff Samardzija. Are the Cubs officially announcing they are going for the division? Can they win the division with their current roster? David Kaplan, Maddie Lee, Tim Stebbins, and Gordon Wittenmyer discuss the signing and what it does for the Cubs, and which free agent pitcher should the Cubs sign? (1:40) - Is Joc Pederson an upgrade over Kyle Schwarber? (5:34) - Did the Cubs get another Schwarber in Pederson? (10:10) - Jed Hoyer has scouts looking at Jake Arrieta, Jeff Samardzija and Carlos Rodón. (14:20) - Should the Cubs sign more than one of the pitchers they're looking at? (18:05) - Is Arrieta healthy enough to be a starter still?

Now former Mets GM Jared Porter was recently implicated in a sexual harassment scandal, sending a number of lewd and explicit pictures and text messages to a foreign reporter in 2016 — when he was working in the Cubs front office. The Mets fired Porter soon after ESPN reported the scandal, and the Cubs are conducting an investigation. But is that enough, and why is the sports media environment historically conducive to this behavior? NBCS Cubs reporter Maddie Lee is joined by a panel of veteran women sports journalists in Hall of Fame baseball writer Claire Smith, ABC7 Chicago’s Dionne Miller, WBEZ’s Cheryl Raye-Stout, and FOX 10 Phoenix’s Siera Santos. The group discusses the Porter scandal and share stories of their experiences in a male-dominated field. (3:10) - Reactions to Jared Porter's actions with the Cubs in 2016 (8:30) - Progression in locker rooms today. Player behavior has improved over the years from where it was in the early days of women sports reporting (15:00) - Examples of players/management misbehaving in locker rooms and on the beat towards women journalists (22:00) - Advice to young women about sports journalism and how they might be unfairly perceived compared to their male counterparts (29:50) - Personal stories of media members and teams backing women who were scared or didn't know what to do. (33:20) - What will come from the MLB and Cubs Porter investigations and how can the sports industry improve its work environment?

The Baseball Hall of Fame voting is in, and no one will be elected in the class of 2021 as controversy still surrounds several of the steroid era players, along with Curt Schilling. David Kaplan, Tim Stebbins, and Hall of Fame voter Gordon Wittenmyer discuss the hotly debated topic of who should and shouldn't get into the Hall and the voting process. Later in the podcast, the crew discusses whether spring training will be delayed. (1:40) - Nobody elected into the Baseball Hall of Fame for class of 2021 (6:08) - Which steroid era player should be considered and which ones should not? (14:10) - Has Hall of Fame voting become generational, where younger baseball writers/voters want Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, and others associated with PEDs in the Hall, while more veteran writers do not? (20:00) - Will the Baseball Hall of Fame have to create special rules for the steroid era? (30:45) - Will spring training be delayed this year?

The Cubs have a never-ending list of celebrity fans, including TV host and personality Steve Wilkos. Wilkos joins David Kaplan and Gordon Wittenmyer to discuss his lifelong fandom of the Cubs. The crew dives into the Cubs' 2021 offseason, the origin of Wilkos' famous bald head look, his favorite Cub players and Cubs moments, and how he was sitting close to Steve Bartman during that infamous playoff game. (1:40) - Steve Wilkos discusses his passion for the Cubs and the disappointment of the rebuild (6:00) - Did the Cubs get enough for Yu Darvish? (10:30) - Was Theo leaving the right move for the Cubs? (12:10) - How Wilkos joined The Jerry Springer Show and his craziest stories from the show (15:00) - The history of the bald head look (21:50) - Wilkos discusses his days as a Chicago police officer (26:40) - Wilkos sat in the same row as Steve Bartman during Game 6 of the 2003 NLCS (31:30) - Wilkos discusses what he would say to the Ricketts family about the Cubs

In 2016, Jared Porter — then a member of the Cubs front office — sent a number of unsolicited, explicit text messages to a female reporter. The Mets fired Porter for his actions on Tuesday. The Cubs Talk crew of David Kaplan, Maddie Lee, and Gordon Wittenmyer discuss Porter's Cubs tenure, how much the Cubs knew about this incident, and the Cubs' investigation into the situation. The crew also dives into the issues in sports culture that make it unwelcoming for women and how it must improve. (2:35) - Maddie Lee: "Glad the Mets did it and did it quickly. Pretty much any woman in the industry has had some sort of similar experience." (7:00) - This incident pushed a woman out of this industry. And Porter was comfortable sending 62 explicit messages. The reason he was comfortable was because so many others have gotten away with it. (11:40) - Is sports culture changing for the better at all? (16:15) - The difference in men and women in sports reporting and things women have to consider that men don't (21:30) - What should women know before entering sports journalism? (26:50) - Cubs are investigating the situation but have stated they didn't know about Porter's actions in 2016

On this emergency Cubs Pod, Jon Lester, one of the greatest free-agent signings in Chicago sports history seemingly goes to finish his career with the Washington Nationals with teammate Kyle Schwarber. But, according to David Kaplan on this podcast, Jon Lester made it clear he wanted to stay a Cub. Did the Cubs not want Jon Lester? Kaplan is joined by Gordon Wittenmyer as they discuss what happened that Jon Lester went east, what money was Lester looking for, and what are the Cubs thinking in not wanting Lester to return? (1:45) - Gordon Wittenmyer "First word that comes to mind on this is EMBARRASSING. You can’t match $4 million?!? You can’t spare that for Jon Lester?" (5:37) - Four-Fifths of the rotation we all agreed wasn’t good enough as it was. Can they realistically compete with what they have? (9:23) - Lester indicated that he wanted to retire as a Cub. Didn’t want to go anywhere else. Wanted 200 wins as a Cub (15:54) - Lester signaled the culture change when he got here. It’s almost unconscionable. (21:00) - If the Cubs are 4 games up in the division, a player goes down. Do they go out and add on or do they start selling off pieces? (24:30) - Cubs culture change

Well, that didn't take long. Theo Epstein, the former Cubs president, now sets his sights on larger pursuits, joining MLB as a consultant to the commissioner's office. Epstein will help evaluate potential rule changes to improve the game's entertainment value, which he takes some responsibility for hurting. The Cubs Talk crew of David Kaplan, Gordon Wittenmyer, Maddie Lee, and Tim Stebbins discuss Theo's move and what could be in store for the former Cubs president in the future. (1:40) - First impressions of MLB hiring Theo Epstein (5:05) - What will Theo be doing exactly? (10:20) - Can analytics in baseball be fixed? (14:00) - What is Theo ultimately trying to achieve? Owner? MLB commissioner? (17:40) - Predictions on Theo's future

Due to the pandemic, there will be no Cubs Convention this year. But after all the changes the Cubs have made, what would be your one question to the Ricketts family at the annual fan festival? We shot that question to Cubs fans and they responded. David Kaplan, Maddie Lee, Gordon Wittenmyer, and Tim Stebbins discuss and try and answer those questions and statements while discussing what impact the White Sox signing Liam Hendriks has on the Cubs. (2:45) - Comparing the White Sox offseason to the Cubs offseason with the Liam Hendricks signing (8:35) - Will some Cubs fans root for the White Sox this year? (14:30) - Will the Ricketts family be able to be honest with fans about the rebuild? (21:10) - Are the Cubs held to the same standard as the Yankees? (29:10) - Yankees vs. Cubs comparisons (33:46) - Why has the Ricketts family spent money everywhere else but the players?

Without a doubt, the top free agent in baseball this offseason just so happens to also be the most polarizing and interesting in Trevor Bauer. To discuss his free agency and the person that is Trevor Bauer, the Cubs Talk podcast is joined by his agent Rachel Luba. Maddie Lee and Gordon Wittenmyer have a deep and interesting conversation about the state of free agency for not just Bauer, but for the rest of the players during a pandemic, what Bauer is looking for in a team to sign him, his social media presence, and how he's viewed around the league and by fans, and if the Cubs have a shot at Bauer. All of that and more on the Cubs Talk podcast. (4:40) - Rachel Luba joins the podcast (5:15) - The odd offseasons for free agency the last few years (12:10) - Are the Cubs in the running for Trevor Bauer? (18:05) - Trevor Bauer pushing boundaries with his outspoken-ness and his use of social media (26:30) - Can Bauer's strategy of using social media to talk directly to fans be a model for future players? (35:45) - The battle between agents and the media (46:50) - How players like Javy Baez and Kris Bryant should handle being under arbitration for multiple years

Happy New Year, Cubs fans! In the first episode of 2021, the Cubs Talk crew of David Kaplan, Gordon Wittenmyer, Maddie Lee, and Tim Stebbins make some bold predictions for the upcoming season. Will the Cubs win the division? Which Cubs will have the breakout year? Which Cubs will perform better than Yu Darvish? Theo freakin' Epstein will save baseball?!! With all the fiery takes this episode produces, you are not going to want to miss it. (1:40) - The Cubs will win the NL Central (6:00) - The Padres will not make the postseason?! (10:35) - Kris Bryant will be a Cub the entire year (16:45) - Ian Happ will sign an extension with the Cubs (24:10) - Jason Heyward will be the best offensive player for the Cubs in 2021 (35:48) - Theo Epstein will save baseball

Jed Hoyer on trading Yu Darvish and Wilson Contreras' future After trading Yu Darvish to the Padres, Cubs president Jed Hoyer spoke to the media about the organization's direction. The Cubs Talk team of David Kaplan, Gordon Wittenmyer, Maddie Lee, and Tim Stebbins discuss Hoyer's comments and where they think the Cubs are headed, not only in 2021 but the future — including rumors the Cubs are shopping catcher Wilson Contreras. Later in the podcast, the crew answers your questions and concerns about the Cubs in our mailbag segment to open up the new year. (1:40) - Takeaways from Jed Hoyer's press conference (6:45) -Are the Cubs still trying to win the division after trading Darvish? (12:06) - The Cubs are trying to trim payroll (18:55) - Will players regret not taking extensions? (25:10) - Fan question: Did the Cubs trade Darvish for a potential star? (31:00) - When will the Cubs hire a new GM? (36:20) - Can the Cubs move Jason Heyward's contract?

In a surprise to everyone but David Kaplan, the Cubs are trading starting pitcher Yu Darvish and catcher Victor Caratini to the San Diego Padres for prospects. Kaplan is joined by the rest of the Cubs Talk crew of Gordon Wittenmyer, Maddie Lee, and Tim Stebbins to discuss and break down the trade. The group discusses if the Cubs are starting a rebuild if the prospects they're getting will be meaningful players and who could be the next Cub traded. (1:58) - Gordon Wittenmyer: "The Cubs are tanking!" (6:21) - No one knows for sure if Darvish can repeat what he did last season (12:05) - Will the Cubs admit to fans that they are tanking? (17:35) - How is one of the most popular teams in the sport not spending money to win? (25:30) - Who is the next Cub to be traded?

In a special edition of the Cubs Talk Podcast, the crew of Gordon Wittenmyer, Maddie Lee, and Tim Stebbins discuss what would be on the Cubs' wish for Christmas, some new rules to baseball that might impact the game, and what Cubs fans should expect from new President Jed Hoyer. Later in the podcast, the crew gets into heated debates over the greatest Christmas movies of all time. (2:00) - Cub fans Christmas wishes (6:40) - Wishing for Cubs to have a better financial situation (12:15) -Wish lists for new rules in baseball (17:20) - What would baseball look like if it banned the shift (24:40) - Heated debates of best Christmas movies

Agent Scott Boras represents some of MLB's greatest players, including former MVP Kris Bryant. Boras sits down with Gordon Wittenmyer and Maddie Lee to discuss where Bryant stands with the Cubs in the ongoing conversation about whether he will be with the team long term. Gordon, Maddie, and Boras also discuss the loaded 2021 free-agent class, the financial situation the Cubs find themselves in, and what could be a very contentious CBA between the players and owners. (2:20) - Where does Kris Bryant measure up against other top players in baseball today and HOF 3rd baseman Chipper Jones (7:03) - Will Bryant finish the 2021 season with the Cubs? (11:40) - Did all the criticism over 2020 get to Bryant? (14:32) - How a loaded 2021 free-agent class might affect a player & if they might accept an extension (18:50) - Economics surrounding the Cubs this offseason (28:55) - Budget cuts in teams front office and how they affect the game (33:30) - State of the CBA negotiations between the owners and players (41:00) - Update on free agent Jake Arrieta

In his Winter Meetings media session, David Ross was asked if he believes the Cubs can win right now. Without hesitation, Ross confirmed he thinks this roster can and will compete. Host David Kaplan, Gordon Wittenmyer, and Maddie Lee discuss if the Cubs can retool and win at the same time or if Ross is doing coach speak. The group also discusses Anthony Rizzo's future as a Cub. Later, following MLB reclassifying the Negro Leagues a major league, Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, joins the podcast. Kendrick discusses his hesitant reaction to the news and what this means for the history of the Negro Leagues. (2:50) - Does David Ross truly believe he can win with this roster? (6:30) - Does being in a down division help the Cubs believe they can still win? (13:39) - With Anthony Rizzo in the final year of his contract, will the Cubs extend him? (17:55) - Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro League Baseball Museum, joins Gordon Wittenmyer and Maddie Lee (19:00) - Kendrick discusses his reaction to the news and its significance (29:30) - Minnie Minoso was the Latino Jackie Robinson (36:15) - The Pirates and the Cleveland Indians could have had Black players but all declined

In his annual December meeting with the media, baseball super-agent Scott Boras discussed the state of baseball and his clients, including Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant — who is seemingly the subject of trade talks every day. Host David Kaplan, Gordon Wittenmyer, Maddie Lee, and Tim Stebbins discuss Boras' comments on Bryant and the new regime led by Jed Hoyer in ways that only Boras can. Later in the podcast, the crew discusses the still uncertain 2021 MLB schedule and if the Cubs are looking to make any more moves this offseason. (2:20) - Impressions of super-agent Scott Boras' meeting with the media (5:20) - Is the path to keeping Kris Bryant brighter than before? (12:10) - Are the Cubs looking to make any moves? (19:00) - How do agents look at teams' "poor" financial situations this year? (27:10) - Where do the Cubs go from here? (33:28) - Scott Boras' thoughts on the finances of MLB teams

Jed Hoyer, the new Cubs president of baseball operations, makes his first appearance on the Cubs Talk Podcast in his new role. David Kaplan, Maddie Lee, and Gordon Wittenmyer discuss his vision for the Cubs, the search for his GM, what he thinks of his roster, and if the Cubs are in a rebuild. The crew also discusses how the Cubs are operating in a pandemic and how will the league adjust when the season starts up again. (1:24) - Balancing the long-term future and the good chance this roster can win the division this year (7:00) - How did the Cubs prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the organization this season? (11:00) - How will the Cubs continue to develop players and more specifically pitching going forward? (13:08) - Are the Cubs going to be competitive this year? (15:50) - Will the Cubs have to take a step back to get back to the World Series? (18:30) - Have teams inquired about Yu Darvish and Kyle Hendricks? (23:30) - When will the search for a GM start?

On the third day of the Winter Meetings, the Cubs still have been quiet. So, the Cubs talk crew of David Kaplan, Maddie Lee, and Gordon Wittenmyer discuss and relive some of the trades or almost trades of Cubs past, including details on how Nomar Garciaparra became a Cub, and how the Cubs dealt Milton Bradley. Later in the podcast, the crew interviews new Cubs third base coach Willie Harris, discussing his playing career with the White Sox and what he plans to bring to the Cubs. (1:30) - A lot of movement this Winter Meetings by the league (4:35) - The story of how the Cubs traded Milton Bradley (9:03) - How Mike Piazza almost became a Cub (14:44) - Was Kris Bryant actually offered an extension? (20:18) - New Cubs third base coach Willie Harris joins the podcast (24:06) - Harris discusses his relationship with David Ross (26:40) - Harris interviewed to be the manager of the White Sox before Tony La Russa got the job

On Day 2 of the Winter Meetings, Jed Hoyer and the Cubs remain quiet and haven't made any moves so far. Host David Kaplan, Gordon Wittenmyer and Maddie Lee discuss the NL Central not being competitive this season and how that could benefit the Cubs in making the 2021 playoffs. Later, Kevin Youkilis joins the pod and breaks down the Cubs. The group discusses the differences in today's game, Kevin's thoughts on Theo Epstein admitting he was part of the problem in "boring" baseball and how Jed can be successful as the new president of baseball operations. (1:07) - Will the NL Central be competitive in 2021? (5:16) - Can the Cubs win the division while worried about the payroll? (9:29) - Kevin Youkilis interview (14:18) - Youkilis' thoughts on Theo Epstein admitting he was part of the problem in baseball (19:30) - Will the game change back to emphasizing small ball? (22:30) - What is the difference between Theo and Jed? (26:20) - What kind of hitters do the Cubs need?

The 2020 Winter Meetings have begun and everyday this week, the Cubs Talk Podcast will be dropping an episode to keep fans up to date on the Cubs. The Cubs Talk crew of David Kaplan, Gordon Wittenmyer and Maddie Lee discuss what the Cubs are looking to do during the Winter meetings and this offseason, and how they Cubs' farm system looks. Later in the podcast, the crew talks with Matt Dorey, the Cubs VP of player development, about if any of the Cubs prospects could be on the move, how the current system is trying to develop talent and how can they improve the lack of pitching depth in the organization. (1:30) - The Winter Meetings are underway. Where should Jed Hoyer start this year? (5:00) - How can the Cubs build like the Dodgers? (8:21) - Matt Dorey joins the podcast (13:20) - How healthy is the Cubs farm system? (17:30) - How are the Cubs developing pitching?

It's always tough to say goodbye but the Cubs made several non-tender decisions, including Albert Almora Jr. and Kyle Schwarber, while tendering Kris Bryant, among others. With Almora being the sixth overall pick and Schwarber the fourth overall in their respective drafts, were they busts for the Cubs? David Kaplan and Gordon Wittenmyer discuss both players' careers and what being non-tendered could mean for the two. Later in the podcast, Gordon describes in detail what the Cubs' financial situation is and how they are operating to fix it. (1:44) - Surprising that the Cubs made the decisions they did at the tender deadline? (7:00) - What does the Cubs' financial situation look like? (12:50) - Did Theo Epstein stick with certain players for too long? (18:00) - Overview of the Epstein drafts (24:20) - Will there be any movement at the virtual Winter Meetings? (29:00) - Finding starting pitching

The Cubs Talk crew of David Kaplan, Maddie Lee and Gordon Wittenmyer discuss who Jed Hoyer should look at to hire as his GM now that he has been promoted. But, did the Cubs miss out on Kim Ng after possibly knowing Theo Epstein was on his way out? The crew debates the missed opportunity and if Ng was on their radar. Later in the podcast the crew discusses the upcoming tender date (not Tinder) as the Cubs have some difficult choices to make on who stays and who goes. (1:40) - Jed Hoyer begins his search for a GM. Did the Cubs miss out on Kim Ng? (6:52) - Is there a chance the Cubs did try to hire Ng? (12:46) - Which core player on the Cubs will be non-tendered or tendered? (18:30) - Rumors from teams around the league that the Cubs aren't good trading partners (23:30)- A message to Cubs fans on what they should be looking for this offseason to know which direction the team is going (27:28) - A story about when the Cubs worked out Carlos Correa before the draft

The Cubs Talk crew of David Kaplan, Maddie Lee and Gordon Wittenmyer are joined by veteran MLB executive for the White Sox, Dodgers, Cubs and others, Dan Evans. With his many years of experience, Evans provides great insight into what new Cubs president of baseball ops Jed Hoyer will be up against and what fans should look for. The group also discusses the Marlins hiring Kim Ng as GM, her connection to Chicago and what her hiring could mean for the future of baseball. (1:44) - How will the new Cubs regime led by Jed Hoyer get the Cubs back on track? (8:10) - As the Cubs' new president, what should Jed do with former MVP Kris Bryant? (14:50) - How will the winter meetings be impacted by the pandemic? (19:13) - Dan describes what Kim Ng was like as an intern for the White Sox (31:23) - Is Tony La Russa ready to manage again? (37:18) - Can/will Theo Epstein help fix baseball after admittedly helping to make it less fun

Jed Hoyer is now the Cubs president of baseball operations and is leading them into a new era. What is his vision for the team? How will he conduct his GM search? Does he think this Cubs team can win? Host David Kaplan and the Cubs content team of Gordon Wittenmyer, Maddie Lee and Tim Stebbins discuss the new era of Cubs baseball and what they expect of Hoyer. Later in the pod, the crew discusses what they are thankful for in baseball and their favorite Thanksgiving food. (1:27) - Jed Hoyer signs an extension through 2025 as president of baseball operations (9:14) - What will Jed do with Kris Bryant? (16:02) - How difficult does Jed think the Cubs job is? (20:38) - What are you thankful for in baseball? (25:00) - Will Jed go after a big-name free agent? (31:40) - Favorite Thanksgiving food?

With Theo Epstein gone, it's time to look at the future of the Cubs and the direction they will be going. David Kaplan and Gordon Wittenmyer discuss where new Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer should lead the team and if there is a chance the Cubs can win the World Series next season. The crew also gets into Wrigley Field being named a national landmark and what that could mean for the organization. (1:27) - Wrigley Field being named a national landmark could impact the organization financially (7:28) - Now that Theo is gone, how healthy is the Cubs organization? (13:05) - Should the Cubs sell off the assets to start the rebuild again? (18:00) - Theo admits he helped ruin baseball to a degree (25:45) - What is Theo Epstein's next step in baseball?

Theo Epstein has officially stepped down as Cubs president of baseball operations and will be succeeded by general manager Jed Hoyer. The Cubs Talk crew of David Kaplan, Gordon Wittenmyer, Maddie Lee and Tim Stebbins discuss Epstein's resignation, what led to Theo ultimately stepping down, and what his legacy in Chicago will look like. (1:30) - How surprising is Theo's resignation? (6:26) - Tom Ricketts' thinking going forward with Jed Hoyer (9:30) - Theo Epstein's legacy as Cubs president (19:09) - With Theo gone, will the Cubs break up the team? (37:18) - Fondest memories of Theo's tenure

On this edition of the Cubs Talk Podcast, Cubs pitching coach Tommy Hottovy joins David Kaplan and Gordon Wittenmyer to discuss his recovery from COVID-19, what a typical day is like for him, what turned Yu Darvish’s fortunes around in Chicago and how Darvish broke out a pitch against the White Sox he hadn’t thrown in three years. Later in the podcast, Hottovy explains how Craig Kimbrel turned his season around and the chance Jon Lester returns to the Cubs. (01:30) - Hottovy on his recovery from COVID-19 (05:45) - On Darvish finishing second in NL Cy Young voting (12:45) - How Darvish narrows down the number of pitches he can throw (27:30) - Having Darvish and Kyle Hendricks at the top of the rotation (29:30) - Expectations for Brailyn Marquez (33:15) - Chances Jon Lester returns to the Cubs in 2021 (36:20) - How Kimbrel turned his season around

On this edition of the Cubs Talk Podcast, David Kaplan, Gordon Wittenmyer and Tim Stebbins discuss the NL Manager of the Year award voting, the job David Ross did in 2020, and Gordon discusses the criteria he used to cast his vote in the NL Cy Young Award race. (1:30) - David Ross finishes third in NL Manager of the Year voting (8:00) - What Ross had to overcome in 2020 to be successful (12:45) - Could Yu Darvish win the NL Cy Young Award? (20:00) - Was this Darvish’s best season as a starter in his career? (26:10) - Is there a chance a major player on the Cubs will be non-tendered? (32:15) - Any chance Trevor Bauer plays for the Cubs in 2021?

On this edition of the Cubs Talk Podcast, David Kaplan and Gordon Wittenmyer talk to former Cub Mark Prior about winning the World Series as the Dodgers pitching coach, his relationship with Dusty Baker, how he got into coaching and watching the 2016 Cubs win the championship. (1:30) - On clinching the World Series (4:00) - On clinching a playoff spot with the Cubs in 2003 (6:00) - On not being around family during the season (8:00) - On Justin Turner's positive COVID test during Game 6 (10:30) - Passing his knowledge down to today's players (12:15) - On his feeling towards Dusty Baker (14:30) - Does Baker get enough credit for his accomplishments? (18:30) - On Kevin Cash's decision to pull Blake Snell in Game 6 (21:30) - How would he have reacted to being taken out of the game like Snell was (23:30) - How he coaches Clayton Kershaw (26:00) - How he got into coaching (29:00) - Thoughts on MLB's new rules in 2020 (32:30) - On seeing the Cubs win the World Series in 2016

The Cubs are in uncertain times this offseason and fans have questions. The Cubs Talk crew of David Kaplan, Gordon Wittenmyer, Maddie Lee and Tim Stebbins answer Cubs fans' questions about the roster, the impact the pandemic has had on the club financially and which player/players they think will be traded. (2:50) - Will there be coaching changes on David Ross' staff? (8:16) - Will players take less money due to the financial climate? (13:11) - How are the Cubs affected by having no fans in attendance in 2020? (17:00) - Will the Cubs non-tender any of their core players? (22:55) - What is the target year the Cubs are expected to win again? (28:10) - Why don't the Cubs bunt more when they struggle offensively? (33:05) - Offseason bold move predictions

Host David Kaplan is joined by Maddie Lee, Gordon Wittenmyer, and Tim Stebbins as they discuss the White Sox hiring longtime Cubs managerial rival Tony La Russa and if he will add fuel to the Cubs-White Sox rivalry fire. Later in the pod, the crew discusses how MLB should handle the aftermath of Justin Turner's positive COVID-19 test result and what precautions the league should put in place in the future. Plus, should analytics be reevaluated after the Rays' move to pull pitcher Blake Snell in the World Series backfired? (1:30) - What does the La Russa hiring mean for the Cubs? (9:26) - Does the old school managing style work in today's game? Is David Ross old school? (14:32) - Should the Rays have pulled Blake Snell? (25:10) - Has analytics hurt baseball? (34:20) - Justin Turner's positive COVID test

Host David Kaplan is joined by NBCS Chicago's entire Cubs content team of Gordon Wittenmyer, Maddie Lee, and Tim Stebbins, as they give their bold predictions for what they think the Cubs will do this offseason. The crew debates if/when Kris Bryant will be traded, will Theo Epstein move on with one year left on his contract, if the Cubs will empty the cupboard and trade everyone, and if the Cubs will start over by trading everyone but Javy Báez and sign Francisco Lindor next winter. You don't want to miss out on these heated debates. (1:36) - Will Theo Epstein be the president of the Cubs in January? (9:50) - Will any of the core players be back to start next season? (18:05) - Will the Cubs move on from Kyle Schwarber? (27:30) - Is there a chance the Cubs move enough money to sign Francisco Lindor? (35:00) - How will the Cubs find pitching?

The Cubs have made a lot of organizational layoffs due to the pandemic, reaching as far as baseball operations. With a smaller staff, how will they proceed with building the on-field product? Host David Kaplan and Cubs insider Gordon Wittenmyer discuss the layoffs and their impact on how the Cubs offseason. They also discuss potential free agents the Cubs should look at including Trevor Bauer, and a review of the farm system of the Cubs. (1:18) - Cubs layoffs continued into baseball operations (8:10) - Times are tough for the Cubs right now (14:40) - How many teams are prepared to spend in free agency? (20:25) - If Jed Hoyer takes over, will he be forced to make cuts and not spend in free agency? (27:00) - Could Trevor Bauer work with the Cubs?

At the height of the Cubs' run under Theo Epstein, they were the model organization and were the standard for other teams to follow. Now, the Cubs are searching for stability to the roster and organization and need a model to replicate to get them back on track. Which path should they take? David Kaplan is joined by Gordon Wittenmyer and Tim Stebbins to discuss which team in the World Series the Cubs should replicate to get them back to prominence: the big-spending Dodgers, or the analytical and methodical Rays? (1:25) - Which style of rebuilding should the Cubs choose? (5:39) - How can the Rays develop pitching so well? (10:06) - Is the next shoe to drop Theo Epstein and the Cubs parting ways? (15:10) - What does the 2021 Cubs rotation look like? (19:10) - Did Theo succeed or fail as Cubs president? (33:00) - Kaplan predicts the Cubs will make a major move by Christmas

One of the issues the Cubs need to address is the lack of depth in the farm system, but what do they already have there? Host David Kaplan and Maddie Lee discuss the Cubs' minor league system. Is there any talent that will be on the major league team in the future or is the cupboard bare and needing to be replenished completely? Later on in the pod, Kap and Maddie discuss which current Cubs player should be moved to gain assets and when they think they will be traded. (1:20) - The lack of homegrown pitching since Theo Epstein and Jed Hoyer took over (6:10) - Will Adbert Alzolay be a key contributor for the Cubs? (11:50) - Going through the Cubs farm system (16:10) - Will the Cubs be able to find steals during the Winter Meetings?

In his first year as manager, David Ross led the Cubs to a division title and a playoff spot, but could he have done better? David Kaplan and Cubs beat reporter Maddie Lee discuss how well Ross performed in his first year managing and where he can improve. Later on, Kap and Maddie dissect the Cubs roster and rank how well each player did. (1:32) - What letter grade would Ross get for his first season? (8:50) - The Cubs bullpen rankings (15:46) - Is Wilson Contreras a better offensive player than what we saw this year? (21:38) - What is the deal with Kyle Schwarber? (30:18) - What will the Cubs do at second base going into next year?

It seems like the run may be over for the Cubs as we currently know them as they begin to restructure the front office and soon the roster. David Kaplan, Maddie Lee, and Gordon Wittenmyer discuss moves the Cubs made so far and front office restructuring that could come in the future. Later in the pod, the crew discusses new rules implemented by MLB for the shortened season and debate which ones they would like to see stay and which ones they would love to see go. (1:28) - Cubs start making front office moves (9:00) - Which MLB rules should stay and which rules should go for 2021? (15:07) - Will fans be allowed in the stands by next season? (19:50) - When will Theo Epstein's future be determined and when will the roster changes start?

Theo Epstein spoke to the media on Monday and has made it clear that the Cubs are still going to try to win, but changes are coming to the roster and possibly the front office. David Kaplan, Maddie Lee, and Gordon Wittenmyer discuss the important offseason for the Cubs, what may lie ahead for their championship core, and who might be gone before next year. (3:20) - Massive changes may be coming to the Cubs (10:23) - Theo doesn't want to be hereafter his contract is up (18:30) - Goal for next year is to win but also plan for the future (27:00) - Will the Cubs trade Darvish or Hendricks for young prospects? (34:10) What should the Cubs' plan be headed into next year?

The 2020 season is over for the Cubs after a Game 2 loss and sweep to the Marlins. Will Theo Epstein and Cubs ownership commence major changes to the core roster? David Kaplan, Gordon Wittenmyer, and Tim Stebbins discuss the series loss and what they expect to happen to the core roster in the offseason. (1:47) - First takeaways from the series loss (7:56) - Will the Cubs try and compete next year or rebuild? (14:45) - David Kaplan believes that major changes are coming to the Cubs this offseason (21:10) - Will Cubs fans accept another rebuild?

The Cubs lost Game 1 of their three-game series with the Miami Marlins and now face a must-win Game 2 in order to keep their playoff hopes alive. David Kaplan is joined by Gordon Wittenmyer, Maddie Lee, and Tim Stebbins as they discuss the loss, the Cubs’ lack of offense and what's next for Game 2. (1:22) - Biggest takeaway from Game 1 (7:30) - Stunned that the Cubs bats didn't show up in Game 1? (11:30) - Who is more important to Game 2, Yu Darvish or "Bryzzo"? (17:20) - How confident should Cubs fans be in Darvish? (21:35) - Should the amount of playoff teams go down after this season?