Is Seiya Suzuki really a top trade candidate for the Chicago Cubs this offseason? In today’s episode, we break down why Bleacher Report listed Suzuki as a major trade possibility, what his 2025 stats say about his value, and whether he can repeat — or even improve on — his performance in 2026.
We cover:
• Why the Cubs might consider trading Seiya Suzuki
• How Suzuki performed in 2025 (HR, RBI, OPS, OBP, AVG & more)
• What his role as a DH vs outfielder means
• His contract situation and no-trade clause
• Whether he can remain a 30+ HR, 100+ RBI player
• Cubs future roster decisions and young outfield talent
• 2026 performance projections & expectations
If you’re a Chicago Cubs fan, an MLB trade-rumors junkie, or just want to understand Suzuki’s value heading into 2026, this video breaks everything down.
#SeiyaSuzuki #ChicagoCubs #CubsNation #CubsBaseball #MLB #MLBNews #MLBTradeRumors #BaseballTalk #CubsRumors #CubsOffseason #MLBAnalysis #CubsFans #SeiyaSuzukiTrade #CubsUpdates #CubsTalk #BaseballAnalysis #MLB2025 #MLB2026 #ChicagoBaseball #CubsHighlights #MLBHighlights #SportsAnalysis #BaseballPodcast #MLBTrades #CubsCommunity
The Chicago Cubs front office is switching up their entire bullpen-building strategy — and this episode breaks down exactly why. For years, the Cubs have relied on one-year deals and low-risk rehab projects to patch together a bullpen, but that approach is no longer enough to land the big names. After losing out on reliever Kirby Yates last offseason — when he chose the Dodgers after Chicago reportedly wouldn’t go the extra year — the Cubs appear to be changing course.
In this episode, we dive into:
🔥 Why Jed Hoyer and the Cubs front office are finally willing to offer multi-year deals
🔥 How the Phil Maton signing signals a major shift in bullpen philosophy
🔥 What Michael Cerami of Bleacher Nation is hearing from his sources
🔥 Why the Cubs are NOT done building that bullpen
🔥 Which “bigger than Maton” bullpen arm could be the next domino
🔥 How previous misses (like Yates) may have forced this change
🔥 What this new strategy means for 2025 and beyond
The Chicago Cubs have officially added veteran right-handed reliever Phil Maton to strengthen their bullpen! In this breaking-news episode, we dive into everything Cubs fans need to know — including Maton’s 2025 stats, how he fits into Chicago’s pitching strategy, and what this move means for the Cubs’ future.
Maton is coming off an impressive 2025 season, posting a 2.79 ERA, 81 strikeouts, and a 1.06 WHIP across 63 appearances. After splitting time with the St. Louis Cardinals and Texas Rangers, the veteran setup man now brings his cutter-curveball mix and late-inning poise to Wrigley Field.
We break down:
✔️ Why the Cubs targeted Phil Maton
✔️ How he immediately improves the late-inning bullpen
✔️ What role he’s expected to play in 2026
✔️ How his 2025 performance projects with Chicago
✔️ What this signing says about the Cubs’ offseason strategy
Whether you’re a lifelong Cubs fan or an MLB news junkie, this episode gives you the full scouting report and roster impact analysis.
In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we break down the major offseason bombshell: Shōta Imanaga unexpectedly accepted the Cubs’ qualifying offer. We analyze why his decision reportedly stunned the front office — and what it means for the Cubs’ 2026 plans.
Next, we look at three top bullpen targets the Cubs are reportedly eyeing: Ryan Helsley, Luke Weaver, and Raisel Iglesias. We go over their 2025 stats, project how they could fit into the Cubs’ pitching staff, and evaluate the risk vs. reward for targeting each one.
✅ Imanaga’s 2025 performance & QO
✅ Helsley’s 2025 closer potential
✅ Weaver’s multi-inning upside
✅ Iglesias as a possible shutdown option
✅ What this all means for the Cubs’ strategy and payroll
If you care about Cubs offseason moves, pitching, and young vs. veteran balance — don’t miss this one.
Subscribe to Chicago Cubs Central for more prospect talk, trade rumors, and in-depth MLB analysis.
#ChicagoCubs #CubsCentral #CubsNews #CubsOffseason #ShotaImanaga #RyanHelsley #LukeWeaver #RaiselIglesias #MLBPitching #MLBFreeAgency #CubsPitching
In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we break down why the Chicago Cubs can’t rely solely on their young talent heading into the next season — especially after losing Kyle Tucker in free agency. With a major impact bat now gone, the Cubs must decide whether to trust their promising prospects or make a move for another big-name hitter.
We take an in-depth look at four key young players: Owen Caissie, Moisés Ballesteros, Matt Shaw, and Pete Crow-Armstrong (PCA). We review their full 2025 season stats, discuss their strengths, where they still need development, and what realistic expectations should look like for the Cubs’ lineup.
We also explore whether Rob Refsnyder, formerly of the Boston Red Sox, could be a smart platoon outfield piece to help stabilize the roster while the young core continues to grow.
If you’re a Cubs fan looking for real analysis, prospect breakdowns, and offseason strategy talk — this is the episode for you.
In today’s episode, Mike dives into several major Chicago Cubs storylines heating up this offseason. Are the Cubs truly linked to Bo Bichette, and what would a potential trade mean for the future of the franchise? We break down the latest buzz, possible trade packages, and whether Bichette is the right fit at Wrigley.
Mike also asks the big question: Should Cubs management shift their attention toward signing Zac Gallen? With the front office seeking pitching upgrades, we discuss how Gallen could transform the rotation and whether he should be the Cubs’ top priority.
Plus — should the Chicago Cubs bring back Christopher Morel? We explore his upside, roster fit, trade value, and what his role could look like in 2025.
If you’re a Cubs fan looking for the latest news, rumors, analysis, and offseason speculation, this is the episode you don’t want to miss!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsNews #CubsRumors #BoBichette #ZacGallen #ChristopherMorel #MLBRumors #CubsBaseball #CubsNation #FlyTheW #CubsOffseason #CubsTalk #CubsUpdates #MLBOffseason #GoCubsGo #CubsTradeRumors #WrigleyField #CubsCommunity #ChicagoSports #NorthSideBaseball
Imanaga has officially accepted his Qualifying Offer, returning to the Cubs on a 1-year, $22 million deal. We dive into what this means for the rotation, whether this signals a bigger offseason plan, and how Imanaga’s 2024 performance sets the tone for a major comeback year.
We also cover the growing buzz around the Cubs’ offseason strategy as Kyle Tucker declines his qualifying offer, officially hitting free agency. With this news, rumors are heating up that the Cubs are prepared to go ALL IN on superstar third baseman Alex Bregman. Could Chicago pull off one of the biggest splashes of the offseason?
Plus — we ask the big question: Can the Cubs rebound after last year’s late-season collapse? We look at key stats, roster needs, and how aggressive Jed Hoyer might be in reshaping this team for 2026.
In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we break down the latest rumors surrounding the Cubs’ search for everyday outfielders as the team prepares for a future that may not include Kyle Tucker. Three names have been buzzing around MLB insider circles — Jo Adell, Jarren Duran, and Steven Kwan — and we’re digging into why these players are reportedly available, how they performed in 2025, and how each one could fit into the Cubs’ 2026 blueprint.
We’ll break down:
🔹 Jo Adell’s massive power surge and why he could replace Tucker’s home run production
🔹 Jarren Duran’s elite speed and defense, and how his profile changes the Cubs’ lineup
🔹 Steven Kwan’s contact-first approach and why he might be the safest everyday outfield option on the market
🔹 What each player would cost, how they’d complement PCA, Happ, and the Cubs’ young core
🔹 Which outfielder gives the Cubs the best path forward if Tucker walks in free agency
If you’re a Cubs fan wanting to understand what the front office might do next, this is a must-watch breakdown packed with insight, stats, roster fits, and realistic trade scenarios.
#ChicagoCubs #CubsCentral #CubsRumors #MLBTrades #MLBRumors #JoAdell #JarrenDuran #StevenKwan #KyleTucker #CubsBaseball #WrigleyField #CubsNation #BaseballNews #MLB2026
Rumors are swirling again — could the Chicago Cubs actually consider signing Max Scherzer to a 1-year deal? In today’s episode, Mike breaks down why this move doesn’t make sense for the Cubs’ long-term pitching plan, the risks involved, and what fans should realistically expect.
We also dive into the breaking news out of Washington: reports suggest MacKenzie Gore could be available via trade. The Cubs checked in once before — but should they circle back now that the market is shifting? Mike analyzes Gore’s upside, injury history, cost, and what a potential deal might look like.
PLUS — we wrap up with another great Viewer Question from the Cubs Central community!
If you’re a die-hard Cubs fan and crave honest, intelligent, and passionate baseball talk… hit that LIKE button, subscribe, and join the conversation!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsCentral #MaxScherzer #MadMax #MacKenzieGore #CubsRumors #MLBTradeRumors #CubsNews #BleedCubbieBlue #GoCubsGo #MLBOffseason #BaseballTalk
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In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we dive deep into the Cubs’ rumored interest in Kansas City Royals left-hander Kris Bubic, a former first-round pick coming off season-ending surgery. The Cubs have reportedly checked in on Bubic as a potential buy-low pitching option — but is he a smart upside play, or another bargain-bin gamble when Chicago needs REAL rotation upgrades?
We break down Bubic’s profile, his pre-injury improvements, his recovery timeline, and whether he could fit into the Cubs’ 2025 pitching plans.
Then we shift to a major topic stirring up the fanbase: Bruce Levine’s comments telling Cubs fans to “trust Jed and Carter” and ignore the noise.
Well… today we explain EXACTLY why Cubs fans should not blindly trust the front office right now.
From failed timelines to lack of big signings, to constantly “checking in” but never pulling the trigger — this episode lays out the truth.
The MLB offseason is heating up — and the Chicago Cubs are right in the middle of it! In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we dive into TWO blockbuster trade rumors that could reshape the North Side:
💣 Could the Cubs trade for Ketel Marte? Reports out of Arizona say the Diamondbacks may be willing to move their All-Star infielder — and Jed Hoyer could be tempted to add a switch-hitting spark to the lineup.
🔥 Or will the Cubs swing BIG for Fernando Tatis Jr.? With the Padres facing serious financial trouble, Bob Nightengale reports Tatis could be on the market — and the Cubs might just have the prospects to pull it off.
🎙 Hosted by Mike Jones — your home for breaking Cubs news, bold offseason takes, and deep-dive analysis all winter long.
#Cubs #ChicagoCubs #CubsRumors #MLBOffseason #KetelMarte #FernandoTatisJr #KyleTucker #Dodgers #MLBRumors #CubsNews #GoCubsGo
In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we break down Jed Hoyer’s headline-making comments from the MLB GM Meetings! Hoyer confirmed the Cubs aren’t closing the door on a possible Shota Imanaga return, but he also revealed the team’s main offseason focus is pitching.
So what does that mean for the Cubs’ pursuit of Kyle Tucker, Kyle Schwarber, or any other big-name position players? Are the Cubs done adding bats — or could a surprise move still be coming?
We’ve got the full breakdown of Hoyer’s comments, what they really mean for Chicago’s offseason game plan, and how it could shape the 2025 roster.
⚾️ Topics we cover:
Jed Hoyer’s quotes on Shota Imanaga’s future with the Cubs
Why pitching is the Cubs’ #1 offseason priority
What this means for Kyle Tucker, Kyle Schwarber, and other top free agents
How Chicago’s budget could impact big splash signings
What Cubs fans should expect next
👉 Don’t miss this deep dive into the Cubs’ offseason strategy — subscribe now for the latest Cubs news, rumors, and updates from Chicago Cubs Central!
🔥 In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central 🔥 Mike breaks down a wild week of Cubs news — and it starts with Cade Horton getting snubbed in the NL Rookie of the Year race! 😤 Horton finishes second to the Braves’ Drake Baldwin, sparking a major debate about MLB’s award system and how fan voting is skewing results. From PCA (Pete Crow-Armstrong) missing out on the Platinum Glove to Horton losing the ROY, are MLB awards becoming a popularity contest? 👀⚾
Then, we say goodbye to a Cubs legend — Kyle Hendricks retires. 🧢 Mike looks back at Hendricks’ incredible career, his World Series legacy, and asks the question: Could “The Professor” be heading into coaching next?
Finally, MLB insider Bob Nightengale drops a bombshell: the Cubs are expected to spend big this offseason 💰 — targeting starting pitching and corner outfield help. Mike breaks down who fits the Cubs’ wishlist and what fans can expect as the front office reloads for 2025.
🎯 Don’t miss this one, Cubs fans — like, comment, and subscribe for all the latest Cubs offseason coverage!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsNews #CadeHorton #KyleHendricks #MLBFreeAgency #BobNightengale #CubsOffseason #PeteCrowArmstrong #MLBAwards #CubsBaseball #GoCubsGo
🔥 In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central 🔥 Mike breaks down the 5 hottest topics heading into the MLB GM Meetings in Las Vegas! 🏙️⚾
From Kyle Tucker trade buzz to Shota Imanaga’s contract drama, plus Cade Horton’s Rookie of the Year push, Mike covers everything Cubs fans need to know heading into a pivotal offseason. 💥
We’ll also dive into two major questions:
⚙️ How do the Cubs rebuild their starting rotation?
💪 What’s the plan to fix the bullpen once and for all?
If you’re a die-hard Cubs fan or just love offseason rumors, this is one you don’t want to miss!
📺 Tune in now — subscribe, like, and drop your thoughts in the comments on what move the Cubs should make first!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsNews #MLB #GMMeetings #KyleTucker #ShotaImanaga #CadeHorton #CubsOffseason #BaseballTalk
Bleacher Report just dropped a list of potential pitchers the Chicago Cubs could target this offseason, and the names are loaded with star power — Ranger Suárez, Dylan Cease, Michael King, Framber Valdez, Brandon Woodruff, Zac Gallen, and Merrill Kelly.
In this episode, Mike Jones breaks down every name on the list — their 2025 stats, strengths, weaknesses, and how each one fits the Cubs’ rotation going into next season. Who should Chicago prioritize as their next big arm?
We cover everything from top-tier aces like Framber Valdez to value picks like Merrill Kelly, and even explore risky high-upside options like Dylan Cease and Brandon Woodruff.
📊 Pitchers Discussed & 2025 Stats:
Ranger Suárez – 12-8, 3.20 ERA, 151 K, 1.22 WHIP
Dylan Cease – 8-12, 4.55 ERA, 215 K, 1.33 WHIP
Michael King – 5-3, 3.44 ERA, 76 K, 1.20 WHIP
Framber Valdez – 13-11, 3.66 ERA, 187 K, 1.24 WHIP
Brandon Woodruff – 7-2, 3.20 ERA, 83 K, 0.91 WHIP
Zac Gallen – 13-15, 4.83 ERA, 175 K, 1.26 WHIP
Merrill Kelly – 12-9, 3.52 ERA, 167 K, 1.11 WHIP
🎯 In This Episode:
Who the Cubs should target first
Which pitchers fit Chicago’s rotation needs best
Which arms are high-risk/high-reward
What kind of deals make the most sense for the Cubs in 2025
💬 Comment Below:
Who do YOU think the Cubs should go after — Framber Valdez, Dylan Cease, or someone else?
📺 Subscribe for all the latest Cubs offseason rumors, trade targets, and free-agent news every week on Chicago Cubs Central!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsNews #MLBFreeAgency #CubsRumors #CubsOffseason #BleacherReport #MLBNews #RangerSuarez #DylanCease #FramberValdez #BrandonWoodruff #ZacGallen #MerrillKelly #MichaelKing
Free agency is officially open, and the Chicago Cubs are expected to make a huge move this offseason. MLB insider Jesse Rogers says the Cubs are due to sign a really big free agent — but who could it be? Mike Jones breaks down all the possibilities and what it means for the team heading into 2025.
Plus, we dive into Shota Imanaga’s surprising offseason moves — could he return on a one-year deal before pitching in Japan in 2027 if there’s an MLB lockout? And what does that mean for the Cubs rotation?
We also cover Kyle Tucker’s Silver Slugger Award, and the fact that both Tucker and Imanaga received qualifying offers. How could that affect the Cubs’ offseason plans?
👉 Topics Covered:
Jesse Rogers says the Cubs are ready to land a major free agent
Shota Imanaga’s contract decision and possible one-year return
MLB lockout rumors for 2027 and how it impacts free agency strategy
Kyle Tucker wins a Silver Slugger Award
Qualifying offers for Tucker & Imanaga and what it means for the Cubs
💬 Comment below: Who do you think the Cubs’ “big free agent” will be this winter?
⬇️ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for all things Chicago Cubs Central!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsNews #MLBFreeAgency #ShotaImanaga #KyleTucker #CubsRumors #MLBNews #JesseRogers #CubsBaseball #CubsOffseason #WeBookItPodcast
The Cubs leaned on Jameson Taillon in 2025, and he delivered when it mattered most — but can he step up even more in 2026? ⚾🔥
In this episode, we break down his 2025 campaign:
Record: 11‑7
ERA: 3.68
Strikeouts: 98
WHIP: 1.06
Hard-hit % allowed: 39.7%
Barrel % allowed: 8.6%
💡 We’ll cover:
What made Taillon a reliable arm in the Cubs rotation
Key areas for improvement: command, durability, and deeper outings
How he fits into Chicago’s rotation mix with young arms emerging
Goals for 2026: Can he be a difference-making starter for the Cubs?
👀 The Big Question:
Will Jameson Taillon elevate his game in 2026, or was 2025 his peak for the Cubs?
💬 Drop your thoughts below — how do you see Taillon performing next season?
🎧 Subscribe to Chicago Cubs Central for in-depth analysis, player breakdowns, and the latest Cubs news from Wrigley Field!
The future of the Chicago Cubs’ rotation is HERE — and his name is Cade Horton. 🔥
After an impressive 2025 rookie campaign, Horton proved he’s not just hype — he’s a cornerstone in the making. In this episode, we break down his stellar debut and ask: What can Cade Horton do to take the next step in 2026?
⚾️ 2025 Season Highlights:
Record: 11–4
ERA: 2.67
Innings: 118.0
Strikeouts: 97
WHIP: 1.08
🔥 Debuted May 10, 2025 — quickly became one of the Cubs’ most reliable arms!
💡 We’ll cover:
What made Horton’s rookie year so dominant
Areas for improvement (command, pitch mix, stamina)
How he can lower his hard-hit rate and go deeper into games
Where he fits in the Cubs’ 2026 rotation
What realistic goals look like for Year 2: 150+ innings? 200 Ks? ERA under 3.00?
👀 The Big Question:
Can Cade Horton become the next great Cubs ace? Or will MLB hitters adjust in 2026?
💬 Drop your thoughts below — what’s YOUR prediction for Horton’s 2026 season?
🎧 Subscribe to Chicago Cubs Central for all things Cubs: pitching breakdowns, roster moves, and offseason updates from Wrigley Field!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsCentral #GoCubsGo #CadeHorton #MLBProspects #CubsBaseball #CubsPodcast #WrigleyField
Host Mike Jones breaks down a shocking move out of Wrigley Field — the Chicago Cubs have rejected their team option to extend Shota Imanaga, and in response, Imanaga has declined his $15 million player option! 😱
What does this mean for the Cubs’ rotation heading into 2026?
Could Imanaga be testing the free-agent market for a bigger payday — or is Chicago planning a new long-term deal?
⚾️ In this episode:
🔍 Full breakdown of Imanaga’s 2025 season stats (13-7, 3.29 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 172 K)
💰 What declining the option means for both sides financially
🧩 How this move affects the Cubs’ rotation plans for 2026
👀 Possible replacements or free-agent targets
💭 Could Shota Imanaga still return to Chicago on a new deal?
📣 The Big Question:
Did the Cubs make the right call — or will they regret letting their star lefty walk?
💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments!
And don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and turn on notifications for all your Cubs news and offseason updates.
#ChicagoCubs #ShotaImanaga #CubsCentral #MLBNews #GoCubsGo #CubsRumors #CubsPodcast #WrigleyField
The catcher conversation in Chicago is HEATING UP! 🔥
With Carson Kelly playing some of his best baseball behind the plate — batting .249 with 17 HR and 50 RBI — has he locked down the Cubs’ starting catcher role for good? 🤔
Meanwhile, Miguel Amaya’s future is in question after another injury setback. The young backstop showed promise (.281 AVG, .348 wOBA), but durability remains the big question mark. Can the Cubs trust him long-term, or is he trade bait now that Kelly’s proving his worth?
⚾️ Episode Highlights:
📊 Stats Breakdown: Amaya’s development vs. Kelly’s consistency
🩹 Injury Watch: Is Amaya’s health costing him his roster spot?
💰 Contract Outlook: How Kelly’s 2-year deal impacts the Cubs’ catching plans
🔍 Free Agent Catcher Market (2025 Winter):
We scout potential names like Danny Jansen, Kyle Higashioka, Yasmani Grandal, and Jacob Stallings — could the Cubs make a move?
💥 Plus: We ask the big question — If Kelly keeps producing, is Miguel Amaya now expendable?
Drop your takes in the comments ⬇️
Would YOU trade Amaya, keep him, or look for another catcher this winter?
🎧 Subscribe to Chicago Cubs Central for all things Cubs — from Wrigley rumors to roster breakdowns, we’ve got the North Side covered every week!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsCentral #GoCubsGo #MiguelAmaya #CarsonKelly #MLBNews #CubsBaseball #CubsPodcast #WrigleyField