CHGO Chicago Cubs Podcast

On this episode of the CHGO Cubs Podcast, hosts Luke Stuckmeyer, Joey Christopoulos, and Justin Roman debate where Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson ranks among division rivals. How does Swanson stack up offensively and defensively against the rest of the NL Central? Is his glove still elite? Can his bat take another step in 2026? The guys dive into advanced metrics, defensive value, leadership impact, and how Swanson compares to other shortstops around the division. With big expectations for the Cubs this season, how important is Swanson’s performance to a potential NL Central title run?

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Can the Chicago Cubs REALLY win the NL Central in 2026? 👀 Cubs Chairman Tom Ricketts believes this team has what it takes to finish on top — but is that confidence justified? On today’s CHGO Cubs Podcast, hosts Luke Stuckmeyer and Joey Christopoulos and guest Matt Cozzi break down Ricketts’ comments and what they mean for the direction of the franchise. Are the Cubs legitimate division contenders? How do they stack up against the rest of the NL Central? And does this roster truly have championship upside? We dive into the impact of Alex Bregman in the middle of the lineup, the continued rise of Pete Crow-Armstrong, the steady production of Ian Happ, and what a breakout season from Michael Busch could mean for the offense. On the mound, can top prospect Cade Horton make the leap and solidify the rotation?

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With Ian Happ continuing to be one of the most consistent two-way left fielders in baseball, Seiya Suzuki providing elite bat-to-ball skills and middle-of-the-order production, and Pete Crow-Armstrong flashing Gold Glove defense and game-changing speed in center field, the Cubs’ outfield might be as complete as any in the NL. On this episode of the CHGO Cubs Podcast, the crew breaks down how this trio stacks up against the Dodgers, Braves, Phillies, and the rest of the National League. Is PCA already the best defensive center fielder in the league? Can Suzuki take another offensive leap? And does Happ’s veteran presence put this group over the top? 
 

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Both players reached the top of their sport in Chicago. Derrick Rose became the youngest MVP in NBA history and looked ready to lead the Bulls back to championship glory before devastating injuries changed the trajectory of his career. Kris Bryant helped break the Cubs’ 108-year World Series drought, won NL MVP, and was on a Hall of Fame pace before injuries and roster changes reshaped his future. So which career leaves fans wondering more? What if D-Rose never tears his ACL? What if Bryant stays healthy and remains the face of the Cubs dynasty? How many championships are we talking about? How different does Chicago sports history look? 
 

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On this episode of CHGO Cubs Related, Corey Freedman and Brendan Miller break down the biggest storylines to monitor as the Cubs report to camp. How will Alex Bregman’s leadership impact the clubhouse — and especially young stars like Pete Crow-Armstrong? Where does Matt Shaw fit defensively as roster battles begin? Are the Cubs truly comfortable with their current outfield depth, or could moves still be coming? Plus, which hitters could be this year’s surprise standouts? From breakout candidates to position battles and leadership dynamics, Corey and Brendan cover everything fans need to know as the 2026 season gets underway. Don’t miss this full Cubs Spring Training preview packed with analysis, projections and key roster questions.

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