On this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, Mike breaks down the likelihood of the Cubs adding another veteran big bat to the lineup as the 2026 season approaches.
💥 We take a deep dive into three veteran offensive options still on the market:
⚾ Rhys Hoskins – proven right-handed power and on-base ability
⚾ Marcell Ozuna – middle-of-the-order pop with a long track record
⚾ Miguel Andújar – versatile contact bat with sneaky upside
📊 In this episode, we cover:
Each player’s 2025 stats and previous team
2026 offensive projections and expected production
How each bat would fit the Cubs lineup and roster construction
Contract value, risk vs reward, and which option makes the most sense
Is Jed Hoyer looking for a short-term veteran boost or lineup depth?
Are the Cubs one more bat away from being a serious contender? 🤔
🔥 Tune in, join the conversation, and let us know in the comments:
Which veteran bat should the Cubs sign?
#ChicagoCubs #CubsCentral #CubsOffseason #CubsRumors
#MLBFreeAgency #MLBHotStove #CubsLineup
#RhysHoskins #MarcellOzuna #MiguelAndujar
#MLBNews #CubsBaseball #VeteranBat
#MLB2026 #NorthSide #JedHoyer
The Chicago Cubs just shook up the MLB landscape and Chicago Cubs Central has you covered with FULL BREAKDOWN and REACTION!
In this breaking news episode, Mike is joined by Coach as they react to the Cubs pulling the trigger on a major trade with the Miami Marlins, landing electric right-hander Edward Cabrera 🐻⚾
💥 TRADE DETAILS:
The Cubs send top prospect Owen Caissie plus two Double-A players to Miami in exchange for Edward Cabrera, a high-octane arm with frontline starter potential.
📊 We break down:
Why the Cubs made this move right now
What Edward Cabrera brings to the Cubs rotation
The impact of losing Owen Caissie
Is this the Cubs pushing toward WIN-NOW mode?
How this trade shapes the 2026 outlook and beyond
Is this the bold move Cubs fans have been waiting for? Or did Chicago give up too much? 👀
🔥 Tap in, join the debate, and let us know what YOU think in the comment
#ChicagoCubs #CubsTrade #EdwardCabrera #OwenCaissie #CubsBreakingNews
#ChicagoCubsCentral #MLBTrades #CubsNews #CubsRumors
#MLBNews #MiamiMarlins #CubsBaseball #MLBHotStove
#CubsRotation #MLB2026 #NorthSide
🔥 CUBS FANS — THIS IS NOT A DRILL! 🔥
Chicago Cubs Central returns with a SPECIAL Listener Appreciation Edition, as Mike Jones is joined by lifelong Cubs fan Rich Mercer for a passionate, fan-first discussion about the future of the Chicago Cubs.
The guys react to MAJOR breaking news from Ken Rosenthal that dropped earlier today — and the message is loud and clear: the Chicago Cubs are nowhere close to being done rebuilding and reshaping this roster. 👀⚾
What does this report mean for Jed Hoyer’s plans? How aggressive will the Cubs really be? And why should Cubs fans be feeling more optimistic than ever heading into the next phase of the offseason?
This episode is packed with excitement, insight, and appreciation for the fans who ride with Chicago Cubs Central every week. Cubs Nation is buzzing — and for good reason!
🎧 Tune in, tap in, and join the conversation!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsCentral #CubsNews #KenRosenthal #MLBHotStove #CubsOffseason #CubsRumors #CubsFans #ListenerAppreciation #JedHoyer #WrigleyField #NorthSide #CubsTalk #MLBNews #CubsNation
Are the Chicago Cubs gearing up for a MAJOR offseason move? 👀
In this episode, we break down the growing buzz linking the Cubs to two huge names — a possible reunion with Cody Bellinger and a bold push to land Zac Gallen as a value free-agent arm.
🧢 Could Jed Hoyer bring Bellinger back to Wrigley Field after his strong 2025 season?
⚾ Are the Cubs targeting Zac Gallen following a down year in hopes of landing him at a discount?
💰 Is this the Cubs’ strategy to win without overspending — finding stars on a steal?
We dive deep into:
✅ 2025 stats for Cody Bellinger & Zac Gallen
✅ Why both players are being linked to Chicago
✅ Contract expectations & market value
✅ How each player fits the Cubs’ long-term plan
✅ Whether Cubs fans should believe the hype — or stay cautious
This could be a make-or-break offseason for the Cubs, and these two names might define it. 👀
Would YOU bring Bellinger back? Is Zac Gallen worth the risk?
👇 Drop your thoughts in the comments & don’t forget to like and subscribe for more Cubs coverage!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsRumors #CodyBellinger #ZacGallen #MLBFreeAgency
#CubsOffseason #JedHoyer #WrigleyField #MLBRumors #CubsNation
#CubsBaseball #HotStove #MLB2026 #CubsCentral #BaseballTalk
In this episode, Mike Jones dives headfirst into the Chicago Cubs’ lack of urgency this offseason and their continued refusal to spend outside their comfort zone. Once again, the Cubs swung and missed, this time on Tatsuyi Imai, reportedly backing off because they weren’t comfortable with the AAV he was seeking in his contract.
Meanwhile, fans are watching division rivals get better while the Cubs stand pat — and the frustration has reached a boiling point. Is this front office playing it too safe? Is this approach costing the Cubs a real shot at contention? And how long will fans tolerate this pattern?
Mike breaks it all down, calls out the front office, and asks the question every Cubs fan is thinking: Is this acceptable anymore?
👇 Drop your thoughts in the comments and let your voice be heard.
👍 Like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more Cubs coverage all offseason long!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsNation #ChicagoCubsCentral #MLBOffseason #CubsFans #JedHoyer #CubsFrontOffice #MLBHotStove #TatsuyiImai #CubsBaseball #NorthSide #FlyTheW #MLBNews #BaseballTalk
Jed Hoyer has been busy reshaping the Chicago Cubs bullpen heading into the 2026 season — but the big question is: is it enough to contend?
In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we break down the Cubs’ newest bullpen additions Hunter Harvey, Hoby Milner, Jacob Webb, and Phil Maton, and analyze how effective these moves could be based on their 2025 MLB stats and performance.
We also take a deep dive into how these new arms fit alongside Caleb Thielbar, Daniel Palencia, Colin Rea, and Javier Assad. Does this group have enough swing-and-miss? Enough high-leverage reliability? And most importantly — what are the Cubs STILL missing in the bullpen?
🔥 Topics Covered in This Episode:
2025 stats & analytics for Hunter Harvey, Hoby Milner, Jacob Webb & Phil Maton
How these bullpen additions impact the Cubs’ 2026 outlook
Can Daniel Palencia anchor the back end as the closer?
Are Thielbar, Rea, and Assad enough depth arms?
What type of bullpen arm the Cubs still need to become World Series contenders
Fan question: Is this bullpen built for October baseball?
📢 Cubs fans — we want to hear from YOU:
👉 Are you confident in this bullpen?
👉 Do the Cubs need one more elite reliever?
👉 Grade Jed Hoyer’s bullpen rebuild so far!
Make sure to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more Chicago Cubs news, breakdowns, and offseason analysis all year long.
#ChicagoCubs #CubsBullpen #JedHoyer #ChicagoCubsCentral
#MLBBullpen #CubsOffseason #Cubs2026 #HunterHarvey
#PhilMaton #HobyMilner #JacobWebb #DanielPalencia
#CalebThielbar #JavierAssad #ColinRea #MLBAnalysis
#CubsTalk #CubsYouTube #MLBNews #CubsNation
The Kyle Tucker market is heating up… or is it slowing down? 🤔
In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, Mike breaks down why the longer Tucker remains unsigned, the more likely it becomes that “King Tuck” returns to Chicago on a short-term deal.
We dive deep into:
⚾ Why Kyle Tucker’s free-agent market may not be developing as expected
⚾ How timing is working in the Cubs’ favor
⚾ What a short-term reunion deal could realistically look like
⚾ The pros and cons of bringing Tucker back to Wrigley
⚾ And the BIG question — do Cubs fans want a King Tuck reunion? 👑🐻
With the Cubs still needing impact bats and front-office decisions looming, this could be one of the most important storylines of the offseason.
👇 Sound off in the comments:
Would YOU sign Kyle Tucker to bring him back to Chicago?
Like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more Cubs coverage all offseason long!
#ChicagoCubs #KyleTucker #KingTuck #CubsNation #ChicagoCubsCentral
#MLBFreeAgency #CubsOffseason #WrigleyField #MLBHotStove
#CubsTalk #MLBNews #BaseballYouTube #NorthSide
#CubsRumors #CubsFans #MLB2025 #CubsBaseball
Jon Heyman dropped a major bombshell on December 23rd, reporting that the Chicago Cubs could be in on not just Tatsuya Imai — but ALSO Japanese slugger Kazuma Okamoto 👀🇯🇵
On this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, Mike breaks down:
⚾ Why the Cubs are suddenly linked to TWO elite Japanese stars
⚾ What it would mean if Kazuma Okamoto’s value plummets
⚾ Could the Cubs actually land Okamoto AND Imai on bargain deals?
⚾ Would YOU want the Cubs to sign the 29-year-old power bat if the price is right?
⚾ Is this the bold move Cubs fans have been waiting for this offseason?
Okamoto has been one of Japan’s most consistent power hitters, and pairing him with Imai could completely change the Cubs’ outlook for 2025 and beyond. Is this smart roster building… or another offseason gamble?
💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments:
👉 Would you sign Okamoto if his market crashes?
👉 Would landing BOTH players save the Cubs’ offseason?
🔔 Like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for daily Cubs news, rumors, and analysis!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsNation #ChicagoCubsCentral #KazumaOkamoto #TatsuyaImai
#CubsRumors #MLBRumors #NPB #JapaneseBaseball #CubsOffseason
#MLBHotStove #JonHeyman #CubsNews #BaseballTalk #MLB2025
It’s almost Christmas — and Chicago Cubs fans are still waiting.
In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, Mike asks the question every Cubs fan is thinking: What’s the hold up? Why haven’t the Cubs made a major move yet this offseason?
We break down the Cubs’ lack of urgency, evaluate the roster as it currently stands, and ask fans to grade the Cubs’ offseason so far. With clear needs still glaring, the clock is ticking.
The Cubs still need:
⚾ A middle-of-the-order bat
⚾ A shutdown closer
⚾ One or two starting pitchers
Names like Cody Bellinger, Kyle Tucker, Alex Bregman, Pete Fairbanks, and Tatsuya Imai are all discussed as potential targets — but will the Cubs actually pull the trigger?
Are the Cubs being patient… or cheap?
Is this front office waiting for bargains while the division improves?
And how much longer can fans be expected to wait?
Drop your offseason grade in the comments and tell us what move HAS to happen next.
👍 Like
📩 Subscribe
🔔 Turn on notifications for daily Cubs coverage
The Chicago Cubs may be exploring creative trade options to upgrade their starting rotation — and one name continues to stand out: Edward Cabrera.
In this episode, we break down how the Cubs could realistically trade for Miami Marlins starter Edward Cabrera, a controllable, power-armed pitcher with front-of-the-rotation upside. With the Orioles pivoting after trading for Shane Boz, does this open the door for Chicago to strike?
We dive deep into Cabrera’s MLB stats, pitch profile, contract control, and what it would take to get a deal done. Could the Cubs put together a package centered around Jordan Wicks and Ben Brown? Is Cabrera worth the cost, or would the Cubs be giving up too much pitching depth?
This episode covers:
⚾ Edward Cabrera trade rumors
⚾ Cubs rotation needs and urgency
⚾ Breakdown of a Wicks + Ben Brown trade proposal
⚾ Why Miami may (or may not) deal Cabrera
⚾ Risk vs reward for the Cubs
⚾ What this move means for the Cubs’ playoff chances
Let us know in the comments: Would YOU trade Jordan Wicks and Ben Brown for Edward Cabrera?
Make sure to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more Chicago Cubs Central coverage all offseason long.
#ChicagoCubs
#CubsTradeRumors
#EdwardCabrera
#CubsRotation
#MLBTradeRumors
#CubsOffseason
#MLBHotStove
#JordanWicks
#BenBrown
#Marlins
#CubsNews
#CubsCentral
#MLBAnalysis
#BaseballTalk
#NorthSide
Are the Chicago Cubs sleepwalking through the offseason?
In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we break down the Cubs’ lack of urgency this winter, their continued bargain-hunting approach, and why missing out on pitchers like Michael King, Devin Williams, and Brad Keller is pushing this offseason toward complete failure.
With Michael King re-signing with the Padres, the Cubs’ rotation options are shrinking fast — and now the pressure is on. If the Cubs don’t land Tatsuya Imai, one of the top international pitching targets available, what message does that send to fans?
We dive into:
⚾ The Cubs’ 2025 payroll and spending trends
⚾ Why Chicago keeps losing out on impact arms
⚾ How close the Cubs really are to the luxury tax
⚾ Why Tatsuya Imai is now a MUST-SIGN
⚾ Whether ownership is prioritizing profit over winning
This is a make-or-break offseason for the Cubs. Are they serious contenders — or stuck playing it safe while the rest of MLB spends big?
💬 Join the conversation:
Should the Cubs open the checkbook for Imai?
Is this offseason already a failure if they don’t?
#ChicagoCubs
#CubsOffseason
#CubsRumors
#CubsNews
#CubsCentral
#MLBHotStove
#MLBFreeAgency
#TatsuyaImai
#CubsPitching
#CubsRotation
#CubsPayroll
#MLBRumors
#BaseballTalk
#FlyTheW
Are the Chicago Cubs on the verge of a blockbuster trade? 👀 Reports say the San Francisco Giants have called about Nico Hoerner, and Cubs fans are already asking the big question — is a Nico trade incoming?On this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we break down:⚾ Why Nico Hoerner’s name is suddenly in trade rumors⚾ Whether a blockbuster deal involving Rafael Devers is realistic or pure fan fantasy⚾ A full stat comparison between Hoerner and Devers and how each fits the Cubs’ long-term vision⚾ The Cubs’ quiet signing of Tyler Austin after his success in Japan — and whether his NPB numbers can translate to MLBIs Nico Hoerner too valuable to move? Would you trade elite defense and speed for middle-of-the-order power? And can Tyler Austin be a sneaky pickup for the Cubs bench or DH role?👇 Jump into the comments and tell us:👉 Is a Nico Hoerner trade coming?👉 Would YOU trade him for Rafael Devers?👉 What are your expectations for Tyler Austin this season?Subscribe for more Chicago Cubs news, trade rumors, analysis, and daily Cubs coverage!#ChicagoCubs#CubsTradeRumors#NicoHoerner#RafaelDevers#CubsNation#MLBTradeRumors#CubsOffseason#TylerAustin#CubsBaseball#ChicagoSports#CubsCentral
In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we break down why bringing Caleb Thielbar back stabilizes the Cubs bullpen and what his 2025 regular season and playoff performance tells us about his role moving forward. From late-inning reliability to veteran leadership, Thielbar’s return could be a sneaky-important move for a Cubs team looking to contend.
We also take a deep dive into one of the most intriguing arms in the Cubs farm system — Jaxon Wiggins. We analyze his 2025 minor league numbers, pitch mix, velocity, and development path, and discuss whether Wiggins could realistically earn a call-up to the major league roster this season. Is he a future starter? A bullpen weapon? Or a name Cubs fans need to remember right now?
Plus:
⚾ Why Thielbar’s presence matters for young pitchers
⚾ What the Cubs need to see from Wiggins before promoting him
⚾ How bullpen depth impacts the Cubs’ long-term pitching plans
Let us know in the comments — should the Cubs give Jaxon Wiggins a shot in Chicago this year, or let him develop more in Triple-A?
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more Cubs coverage!
#ChicagoCubs #Cubs #ChicagoCubsCentral #CalebThielbar #JaxonWiggins #CubsBullpen #CubsProspects #MLB #MLBProspects #CubsFarmSystem #CubsPitching #NorthSide #CubsNation #BaseballTalk #MLBNews
In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, Mike Jones breaks down a potential blockbuster trade scenario that could reshape the Cubs’ pitching staff for years to come.
The Cubs are in desperate need of bullpen help and another reliable starting pitcher, and two names stand out as possible solutions: Mason Miller and Nick Pivetta. Both pitchers faced the Cubs in the 2025 Wild Card Series, and both made a major impression.
💥 Could the Cubs trade for Mason Miller, one of the most dominant high-velocity bullpen arms in baseball?
💥 Is Nick Pivetta the rotation stabilizer the Cubs need to compete in October?
💥 What would the Padres demand in return, and are the Cubs willing to pay the price?
We dive into:
Mason Miller’s electric 2025 season and postseason dominance
Nick Pivetta’s ace-level performance and playoff start vs Chicago
Realistic trade packages the Padres could ask for
Whether the Cubs should cash in prospects to win now
How these moves could set the Cubs up long-term
This episode asks the big question Cubs fans are debating right now — do you build patiently, or go all-in?
👇 Join the conversation in the comments:
Would YOU trade top Cubs prospects for Mason Miller or Nick Pivetta?
#ChicagoCubs #CubsNews #CubsRumors #MLBTradeRumors #MasonMiller #NickPivetta #CubsBullpen #CubsRotation #MLBHotStove #Padres #MLB2025 #CubsCentral #WinNow #BaseballTalk
In this episode, Mike Jones fires up a brand-new game with the viewers: “What Are The Odds?” — and today, the stakes couldn’t be higher for the Chicago Cubs.
News has exploded out of Los Angeles that the Dodgers are unwilling to offer Kyle Tucker a long-term contract. Could this stunning development bring the Cubs back into the mix? Is a Kyle Tucker reunion suddenly a real possibility for Chicago?
And that’s not all…
Fresh reports say Tatsuya Imai could command a massive 6-year, $135 million contract. Is he worth ace-level money? Will the Cubs step up and pay it, or will another team beat them to the punch?
Mike breaks down the odds, the rumors, the numbers, and what these huge decisions could mean for the 2026 Cubs roster.
⭐ Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT your odds, and SUBSCRIBE for all Cubs updates!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsNews #CubsRumors #KyleTucker #TatsuyaImai #MLBOffseason #CubsCentral #MikeJones #GoCubsGo #MLBNews #BaseballRumors
In this episode, Mike Jones breaks down a wild week of Cubs rumors and near-miss moves that could reshape the entire 2026 roster. The Chicago Cubs are officially in trade talks with the Washington Nationals for MacKenzie Gore, one of the most electric young left-handers in baseball. Will Chicago finally land the controllable starter they’ve been searching for?
Plus — the Cubs reportedly met with Pete Alonso about a potential deal before he ultimately chose the Baltimore Orioles. How close were the Cubs to actually landing the Polar Bear?
And finally… Devin Williams is OFF the table. Chicago refused to match the $51 million price tag for the dominant closer. Was that a smart long-term play or a costly mistake?
With missed opportunities piling up and the rotation still incomplete… WHO will the Cubs sign next? Mike gives his picks, predictions, and what moves MUST happen next.
👉 SUBSCRIBE for more Cubs news, rumors, and breakdowns!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsNews #CubsRumors #MLBTrades #MacKenzieGore #PeteAlonso #DevinWilliams #CubsCentral #MikeJones #MLBOffseason #GoCubsGo #BaseballNews
In this episode, Mike Jones dives into Day 2 of the MLB Winter Meetings as Craig Counsell steps up to the mic and drops some major bombshells. We break down his comments on Michael Busch no longer being limited to right-handed pitching, and what this means for the Cubs’ 2025 lineup versatility.
We also explore how Matt Shaw is shaping the Cubs’ future plans — especially how his role in 2026 may extend well beyond third base. Plus, an update on Justin Steele’s injury timeline, what the Cubs expect moving forward, and how this impacts the rotation.
From roster strategy to development plans and surprise takeaways from Counsell’s presser — we’ve got it all covered. Tap in and stay informed on every move the Cubs are making this winter!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsCentral #WinterMeetings #MLBNews #CraigCounsell #MichaelBusch #MattShaw #JustinSteele #CubsBaseball #MLBUpdates #CubsNation #GoCubsGo #CubsRumors #BaseballTalk #MLB2025
🔥 CHICAGO CUBS CENTRAL – DAY 1 WINTER MEETINGS BREAKDOWN! 🔥
In this must-watch episode, Mike dives into Day 1 of the MLB Winter Meetings, where the Chicago Cubs are already making noise and exploring multiple high-impact moves.
💣 Cubs Showing Interest in BIG Names
Chicago is reportedly connected to several potential upgrades — including Kyle Schwarber, Eugenio Suárez, and superstar free agent Alex Bregman. Could one of these bats land at Wrigley?
🧢 Jed Hoyer Speaks on the 3B Conundrum
Jed addresses one of the biggest questions of the offseason: Who plays third base in 2025?
He gives major insight into the Cubs’ thinking — including his confidence in top prospect Matt Shaw.
⚾ Winter Meetings Heat Up
From trade talks to free-agent chatter, Mike breaks down everything the Cubs are doing behind the scenes as they look to reshape the roster.
🔥 Big decisions are coming — will the Cubs strike fast or wait for the right moment?
👍 LIKE, COMMENT & SUBSCRIBE for daily Cubs coverage, rumors, and Winter Meetings updates!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsCentral #MLBWinterMeetings #CubsRumors #KyleSchwarber #EugenioSuarez #AlexBregman #JedHoyer #MattShaw #MLBRumors #CubsNews #GoCubsGo #ChicagoSports #BaseballTalk #MLBOffseason
🔥 CHICAGO CUBS CENTRAL – WINTER MEETINGS BREAKING NEWS! 🔥
In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, Mike Jones kicks off the Cubs Winter Meetings and welcomes fans to the annual offseason madness! With the front office hunting for upgrades, the big question is simple:
Will the Cubs land a superstar?
🏆 Alex Bregman Rumors Heating Up
Could Chicago make a massive splash and bring in one of the top hitters on the market?
💣 Kyle Schwarber Reunion?!
Is a return to Wrigley Field actually possible for Schwarbs? Mike breaks down the latest buzz.
🤝 Trade Talk With the Miami Marlins
With pitching a top priority, we explore whether the Cubs could strike a deal with Miami for rotation or bullpen help.
⚾ Starting Pitching & Bullpen Needs
From frontline starters to late-inning weapons, what moves MUST the Cubs make this week?
💬 What will the Cubs get done during the Winter Meetings?
Mike gives his predictions, analysis, and insight on what fans should expect as the action unfolds.
👍 LIKE, COMMENT & SUBSCRIBE for more breaking Cubs news, offseason rumors, and analysis all winter long!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsCentral #MLBWinterMeetings #CubsRumors #AlexBregman #KyleSchwarber #CubsNews #MLBRumors #CubsBaseball #GoCubsGo #ChicagoSports #MLBOffseason #BaseballTalk #MikeJones #CubsUpdates
Can the Chicago Cubs finally build a championship-caliber rotation in 2026? In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we break down Bruce Levine’s surprising pick for the Cubs’ next rotation addition — Tatsuya Imai, the NPB star who dominated in 2025 and is now linked to Chicago as a potential top-of-the-rotation upgrade.
We also dive into the projected 2026 rotation of Cade Horton, Matthew Boyd, Jameson Taillon, Shota Imanaga, and now possibly Imai. Can the Cubs win with this group? Is Imai truly the missing piece to push this team over the edge and into World Series contention?
We break down every pitcher’s 2025 stats, 2026 projections, strengths, risks, and what this group needs to become the best rotation in the NL Central.
If you’re a die-hard Cubs fan or love MLB rumors, projections, and offseason strategy, this episode is for you. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and drop your predictions in the comments!
#Cubs #ChicagoCubs #CubsNews #MLB #MLBRumors #CubsRumors #CubsRotation #TatsuyaImai #CadeHorton #MatthewBoyd #JamesonTaillon #ShotaImanaga #BruceLevine #Cubs2026 #CubsOffseason #GoCubsGo #Baseball #MLB2026 #CubTogether