Cubs Weekly: Recent Episodes

Marquee Sports Network

Serving Cubs fans relevant and engaging weekly discussions on the team and providing the most informative analysis and insight during the baseball season and throughout the entire year. Host Elise Menaker is joined by regular contributors and special guests. (Marquee Sports Network Podcasts)

The Cubs showed what they are made of with a strong series against the Brewers, finding a variety of ways to win and gain ground in the NL Central.

Andy Martínez and Tony Andracki sum up the week at Wrigley Field that certainly felt like the playoffs even if it was still only August. They break down how Adbert Alzolay and the bullpen has been a key to the team's success in recent weeks as well as the mindset and chemistry of the group.

Where does Justin Steele rank in the NL Cy Young conversation? Will rookie Jordan Wicks stick in the rotation for the rest of the season? Who will the Cubs call up when rosters expand on Sept. 1?

The Cubs keep finding ways to grind out close victories. Andy Martínez and Tony Andracki analyze the Cubs-Tigers series and stress the importance of Jameson Taillon pitching up to his capabilities.

How do the Cubs solve their 5th starter woes and what does the team do with Drew Smyly? Plus, where would the Cubs be without Cody Bellinger this season?

Triple-A Iowa Cubs broadcaster Alex Cohen also stops by the pod to provide a lowdown on Pete Crow-Armstrong, Jordan Wicks, Alexander Canario and other players to keep an eye on who might come up and help the big-league club in the middle of a pennant race.

Christopher Morel delivered another magical moment in his Cubs career. The righty hit an epic 3-run, walk-off home run as the Cubs beat the White Sox 4-3 in the finale of the Crosstown Classic. Andy Martínez and Tim Stebbins recap the magical night at Wrigley on the Cubs Weekly Podcast.

The duo recaps other big moments in the game, including Nick Madrigal’s home run against his former team and Michael Fulmer’s clutch performance in relief. They discuss what the win means for the Cubs playoff hopes.

Later in the podcast, the two breakdown the Marcus Stroman injury and what it means for the Cubs moving forward. Stebbins and Martínez discuss how the Cubs might fill the fifth spot in their rotation moving forward.

Looking at pitching puzzle On this week’s edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, Andy Martínez and Bruce Levine discuss the Cubs’ decision to move lefty Drew Smyly from the rotation to the bullpen. The pair discuss the ramifications that has on the rest of the starting rotation, including the impending return of Marcus Stroman.

The duo then discusses the Cubs’ bullpen usage and how David Ross will manage his relief corps in the stretch run. Levine and Martínez discuss Mike Tauchman’s incredible run and what his success means for the team’s use of Seiya Suzuki going forward.

Later in the podcast, Levine recalls being present for Hall of Fame weekend, where Cubs radio broadcaster Pat Hughes was honored as the Ford C. Frick Award winner. Levine shares what makes Hughes so special.

The Cubs are officially going for it. They picked a lane at the deadline and emerged as buyers with a big lineup pickup in Jeimer Candelario.

Tim Stebbins, Andy Martínez and Tony Andracki analyze the Cubs' deadline moves, what it means for the rest of the season, how the new-look lineup is shaking out and ripple effects up and down the roster.

Plus, pitching questions surrounding Marcus Stroman, Drew Smyly and the bullpen. And what are the top storylines Cubs fans should pay attention to in the final two months of the season?

What will the Cubs do at the trade deadline? Taylor McGregor and Tony Andracki weigh Jed Hoyer's options on the latest Cubs Weekly Podcast and both agree that the best course of action might be to stand pat and see if this team can go on a run.

Seiya Suzuki made the defensive highlight of the season Tuesday night on the South Side while Cody Bellinger is making his impact felt on both sides of the ball and in the clubhouse.

Plus, Adbert Alzolay is coming into his own in the closer's role and Cubs players react to their first taste of the Crosstown Series

Vibes were high around Wrigley Field Tuesday night in an offensive explosion for the ages. Our podcast panel of Chris Emma, Tim Stebbins and Tony Andracki dissect the big win and how important it is that the Cubs take advantage of the soft part of their schedule.

Are Nico Hoerner, Seiya Suzuki and Ian Happ breaking out of their respective slumps? Has Jameson Taillon turned a corner? What does the future hold for Marcus Stroman?

Plus, the trio talks Immaculate Grid, the game taking the baseball world by storm.

The Cubs put a bow on the 3-day draft Tuesday by selecting 10 players in rounds 11-20. Cubs VP of Scouting Dan Kantrovitz stopped by the Cubs Weekly Podcast with Andy Martínez and Lance Brozdowski to recap the eventful — and restless — 3 days of the draft.

Kantrovitz shares some insight on 1st round pick Matt Shaw, his offensive profile and why they liked him as their first pick. Then, Kantrovitz goes in depth on 2nd round pick Jaxon Wiggins, one of the pitchers the Cubs were excited to pick in the draft. Later in the pod, Kantrovitz provides some information on some of the more intriguing later round picks the Cubs made, like 6th rounder Alfonsin Rosario and 16th round pick Daniel Brown.

To wrap up the pod, Brozdowski and Martínez discuss their takeaways from the draft and the All-Star Game, where Justin Steele pitched a scoreless inning.

On this week's edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, Taylor McGregor and Andy Martínez recap a crazy Cubs win in Milwaukee and what that means for the team ahead of the All-Star Break. The pair discuss Daniel Palencia's emergence and what it could mean for the Cubs' bullpen going forward. Then, McGregor and Martínez discuss the All-Star Game, where 3 Cubs were selected and what they're most excited to see in the game.

Later in the pod, actor Thomas Ian Nicholas stops by with Tony Andracki to talk about the anniversary of the film Rookie of the Year. Nicholas shares some of his favorite baseball stories and how he follows the game today.

Coming off London, the Cubs are staring down an important stretch of games before the All-Star Break. Tim Stebbins, Andy Martínez and Tony Andracki analyze the Cubs' final couple weeks of the first half and debate which Cubs players will make the All-Star team.

How do the Cubs handle the Jameson Taillon situation moving forward? How has Nick Madrigal's recent stretch of play impacted the Cubs roster? How have the Cubs found stabilization in the bullpen?

Plus, Cubs reliever Julian Merryweather stops by to chat about the London trip and how he's emerged as a high-leverage arm in the bullpen.

The Cubs are red-hot, having won 10 of 12 and 4 straight series. They've knocked the Pirates from 1st place all the way to 4th and are threatening to climb to the top of the NL Central...if not for the apparently unstoppable Cincinnati Reds.

Sean Marshall joins the podcast (31:06) to break down the Cubs' recent run with Andy Martínez and Tony Andracki. From the major turnaround by the offense to the steadying presence of the rotation, the Cubs are firing on all cylinders right now.

Marshall also breaks down the importance of the pitcher-catcher dynamic and why we're seeing so much success from Marcus Stroman and Tucker Barnhart. With the Cubs heading to London, Marshall explains how the players should approach the grueling travel of the trip to keep the momentum going.

Plus, we discuss Trey Mancini's role on the team, Mike Tauchman's stellar play, Christopher Morel's adjustments in the DH spot, Kyle Hendricks in prime "Professor" form and Nick Madrigal's recent resurgence.

Kyle Hendricks is fresh off his best start in years and his continued return to form would pay huge dividends for the Cubs moving forward. Plus, Cody Bellinger is nearing a return to Chicago and he could be playing a new position to help give the Cubs offense a boost.

Elise Menaker and Tony Andracki break it all down in the latest Cubs Weekly Podcast and what it means for the rest of the roster. They also discuss a weird baseball scoring rule, the Cardinals' disaster of a season and the new MLB schedule.

Plus, Menaker gives a rundown on several of the Cubs' top prospects, including Pete Crow-Armstrong, Kevin Alcántara, Ben Brown and a trio of relievers pitching well in Triple-A.

We also welcome in a special guest - DJ Ca$h Era, who was the guest DJ at Wrigley Field on Tuesday night to kick off the homestand and Pride month.

With the Cubs taking on the Angels in Anaheim, Shohei Ohtani's first series against the North Siders takes center stage. On the latest Cubs Weekly Podcast, our panel of Andy Martínez and Tony Andracki spend some time daydreaming about Ohtani in Chicago and how that would impact the Cubs roster.

The duo also discusses how some key members of the next Cubs core - Miguel Amaya, Christopher Morel, Matt Mervis - have fared recently and how it may or may not have affected their long-term stock in the organization.

Plus, some rotation optimism surrounding the team even while question marks continue to swirl in the bullpen.

Ryan Dempster drops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to reminisce on his 9-year Cubs career with Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki.

Dempster tells tales of what it was like to be teammates with Greg Maddux, how incredible Derrek Lee's 2005 season was, 2007-08 memories, the differences between Lou Piniella and Dusty Baker and much more.

Plus, Dempster also shares his strategy during a benches clearing brawl and why he felt like a part of the roster during the 2016 season.

Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki discuss the Cubs' early-offseason roster decisions, which included outrighting 9 players to the minors and selecting the contract of 4 prospects to add to the 40-man roster.

Willson Contreras and Jason Heyward are officially gone and the Cubs also made a minor trade with the Tampa Bay Rays that could pay off huge dividends in the 2023 team.

Plus, Martinez analyzes the Cubs coaching moves and how the hitting infrastructure will be altered next season. MLB.com's JP Morosi also provides a very intriguing nugget about a high-profile free agent that may be motivated to sign with the Cubs.

MLB’s offseason kicked off in earnest this week with the annual General Managers Meetings at the Conrad at Resorts World in Las Vegas. Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer and general manager Carter Hawkins convened with the rest of their counterparts from across the league this week for meetings, breakout sessions and plenty more.

Taylor McGregor and Andy Martínez were in Las Vegas to recap the event and get a grasp for what the Cubs hope to accomplish during this pivotal offseason. The pair share their biggest takeaways, the Cubs’ plans for the offseason and share some fun from Scott Boras’ press conference.

Plus, the pair provide updates on Drew Smyly, Willson Contreras, Kyle Hendricks and much more.

Chicago native and Cubs radio analyst Ron Coomer stops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to revisit Game 7 of the 2016 World Series with Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki.

Six years after the greatest game in Cubs franchise history, the trio discusses the biggest takeaways from that magical night in Cleveland and relive the emotional roller coaster.

Plus, hear what Coomer did during the rain delay, how he celebrated the Cubs' championship and why he wears his World Series ring so often.

Cubs vice president/director of pitching and assistant GM Craig Breslow joins the Cubs Weekly Podcast to explain to hosts Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez exactly what his job entails on a day-to-day and week-to-week basis.

Breslow also provides a peek behind the curtain as to how the organization's pitching infrastructure has grown in the last few years and what they still hope to accomplish in coming seasons.

Plus, how does Kyle Hendricks return to form and who are some other names in the organization to keep an eye out for in 2023 and beyond?

Our Cubs Weekly panel of Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki answer reader questions ahead of a pivotal offseason.

From best free agent fits to offseason predictions, we attempt to answer every question fired our way - including some fun off-the-wall queries.

00:56 - Who are some Cubs players that you think will break out next season?

03:47 - Was Jar Jar secretly a dark lord of the Sith (the true ‘phantom menace’ within an abandoned storyline)?

04:48 - Which Cub had the best ULRAG of the year?

06:05 - If you could design a Cubs + Star Wars promo/gameday giveaway what would it be?

07:02 - Favorite Cubs moment of the 2022 season

09:15 - Using the 2022 Cubs final home game lineup, match each player with their Star Wars character.

15:37 - Will the Cubs try to get top free agents?

16:40 - Thoughts on the upcoming offseason

18:46 - Prediction for next season's record

20:05 - Do you think the Cubs will make the 2023 postseason?

21:13 - Do you foresee Morel retaining the multi-tool function next year or getting locked in at one spot?

24:05 - 2016 Cubs as MCU characters

26:55 - What's the 1B situation next year looking like? Would adding a 36-year-old player (like Jose Abreu) with positional limitations be wise?

29:24 - Why not extend Willson Contreras?

31:50 - Will the Cubs sign a FA SS or could they trade for one? Is Nico staying at SS or moving back to 2B?

33:58 - What are your projections for CF, SS, 1B, 2B, 3B starters in '23? FA's, prospects, names?

37:22 - Who is the Cubs' future?

39:24 - Favorite dance?

40:33 - If made available, would the Cubs be in on Rafael Devers or Mike Trout?

Bruce Levine, Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki dissect Jed Hoyer's end-of-season press conference and provide the main takeaways from the Cubs president of baseball operation's hour-long session with media.

Plus, the podcast panel provides predictions for the Cubs offseason, including the biggest areas of need on the roster and a bold prediction for the winter.

The trio also reflects on the 2022 season with the best moments, most important on-field developments, biggest surprises, MVPs, Cy Youngs, etc.

Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki attempt to answer a slew of questions surrounding the Cubs pitching staff entering the offseason and looking ahead to 2023.

What are reasonable expectations for Kyle Hendricks next year? Where do Hayden Wesneski, Keegan Thompson, Javier Assad, Adbert Alzolay and Adrian Sampson fit into the pitching staff next year?

Plus, what are the most important storylines to watch over the final week-plus of the regular season?

Carlos Peña drops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to explain what his Hispanic heritage means to him and what it was like coming up through the minor leagues as a Hispanic ballplayer.

Plus, Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki evaluate what role Zach McKinstry and Michael Hermosillo might have on the 2023 Cubs after a recent stretch of solid play.

Martinez also details his unique find in the story of Alfonso Rivas and Javier Assad, who grew up playing Little League together in Tijuana and are now teammates once again in Chicago.

00:55 - What does the future hold for Zach McKinstry and Michael Hermosillo with Cubs?

12:29 - How the Assad/Rivas story came about

16:26 - Andy goes 1-on-1 with Carlos Peña

Triple-A Iowa broadcaster Alex Cohen joins Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki on the Cubs Weekly Podcast. The trio discusses the upcoming MLB rule changes - like larger bases and pitch clock - that have been at the Triple-A level all season.

Plus, updates on players like Adbert Alzolay, Alexander Canario, Brennen Davis and how Caleb Kilian has fared since his cup of coffee in the big leagues.

Cohen also breaks down Matt Mervis' monster season, what he saw from a trio of pitchers (Hayden Wesneski, Brandon Hughes, Javier Assad) before they migrated to Chicago and provides several under-the-radar players to keep an eye on.

TOPICS:

01:12 - Impressions of pitch clock and bigger bases in the minors

04:12 - Hayden Wesneski's time in Triple-A and adjustment to MLB

06:42 - Caleb Kilian's up-and-down 2022 campaign

11:02 - Summing up Brennen Davis' return to Triple-A so far

13:07 - Brandon Hughes, Javier Assad and the Cubs pitching development

18:25 - Alexander Canario update

20:56 - Matt Mervis' breakout season

26:05 - Adbert Alzolay's rehab outings

28:32 - Under-the-radar players to keep an eye on

Hayden Wesneski turned in one of the most dominant MLB debuts in Cubs recent history but his pitching may not have been the most impressive part of his evening.

Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki explain on the latest Cubs Weekly Podcast and chat about Wesneski's role for the rest of the season and in 2023.

Plus, the duo discusses Wade Miley's return, next steps for Justin Steele, Keegan Thompson and Adbert Alzolay and Ben Zobrist's future role.

Martinez and Andracki also break down the likelihood Franmil Reyes and Rafael Ortega play major roles on the 2023 Cubs.

00:46 - Tony and Andy get stumped on this week's trivia question

03:34 - Hayden Wesneski's dominant debut: What stood out most?

08:10 - Taylor McGregor goes 1-on-1 with Wesneski after the game

10:13 - What's next for Wesneski?

14:52 - Will we see Steele and Thompson pitch again this season? When might Contreras be back?

18:53 - Ben Zobrist potentially having an expanded role with the organization?

21:32 - What does the future hold for Franmil Reyes and Rafael Ortega with Cubs?

We're at the point in the season where the Cubs are using the final few weeks to evaluate younger players. Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki break it down on the latest Cubs Weekly Podcast, including Jeremiah Estrada and Brendon Little making their MLB debuts this week in Toronto.

Plus, why Cubs veterans believe the team is on the right track and how they can help young pitchers like Justin Steele and Keegan Thompson as they navigate their first full big league campaign.

The panel also discusses the narrative surrounding Nick Madrigal and the team's top two draft picks from last month (Cade Horton and Jackson Ferris) stop by the Marquee Sports Network studio.

Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki dissect the Cubs' pitching staff with the addition of several young arms. How is the bullpen shaking out? What does the 2023 rotation look like?

Plus, Lance Brozdowski chats with Brennen Davis on his injury recovery while Martinez and Andracki provide a slew of other prospect updates.

The duo also discusses the importance of winning over the final six weeks of the season and what it could mean for this franchise moving forward.

00:16 - The plan for Kyle Hendricks

04:32 - Young pitchers proving their worth in Chicago

10:00 - Has Adrian Sampson carved out a role on the 2023 pitching staff?

12:42 - Analyzing Steele's breakout

17:30 - Brennen Davis 1-on-1 with Lance Brozdowski

23:06 - What are the next steps for Davis?

25:24 - Other prospect updates (Alexander Canario, Miguel Amaya, Jordan Wicks)

32:13 - How important is it for the Cubs to playing winning baseball down the stretch?

Lance Brozdowski stops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to share his new Top 25 Cubs prospect rankings and make Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki smarter.

Brozdowski breaks down his list, what went into his reasoning behind who is ranked where and what he struggled with most as he put together the order.

Plus, the panel breaks down the depth of the system, some new additions to the rankings, which players could join the list next season and a few prospects fans may see at Wrigley Field in the near future.

00:47 - How Brozdowski put his list together and how these rankings compare to past lists

08:43 - The organization's strength of pitching depth compared to a year ago

14:48 - The graduation of Christopher Morel, Nelson Velazquez and Anderson Espinoza from these rankings

19:22 - Why Caleb Kilian dropped in this list

23:29 - Why Kohl Franklin dropped on the rankings

24:29 - Why Brozdowski left off Reginald Preciado, Alexander Vizcaíno, Christian Franklin and Brailyn Marquez

28:25 - The arrival of Matt Mervis and Moises Ballesteros

36:11 - A wave of young relievers coming up through the system

38:28 - How will this list look a year from now?

41:48 - Who are some of the prospects that can make an impact at Wrigley Field in the near future?

The Cubs won big at Field of Dreams - both in the game and in the experience at the magical place.

Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki relive the best moments from the momentous day in Iowa and recall how the Cubs took in the event. Plus, catch an interview with Murray Cook, the groundskeeper at the Field of Dreams.

In the second segment, our duo discusses the Jason Heyward news, Franmil Reyes' addition to this team and how Tom Ricketts is viewing the offseason.

Jed Hoyer also chats with Cole Wright about the upcoming winter and the future of the franchise.

The MLB trade deadline came and went and there was no shortage of surprising moves - by the Cubs and around the league.

Juan Soto and Josh Hader are among the stars switching teams while the Cubs held on to a pair of stars of their own in Willson Contreras and Ian Happ.

Even one of the moves the Cubs did make - trading away young reliever Scott Effross - was surprising, though the trio of veterans shipped out was predictable.

Our panel of Elise Menaker, Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki break down all the deadline madness and how it affects the Cubs moving forward.

Full rundown:

00:35 - Trivia

03:10 - Reaction to Contreras/Happ remaining with Cubs

09:29 - How does this affect the final two months of the Cubs' season?

14:46 - Is Contreras now more likely to sign an extension with the Cubs?

18:22 - Jed Hoyer on the Cubs' deadline haul

20:29 - What stands out to you most about the Cubs' deals?

28:35 - Who needs to step up for the Cubs post-deadline?

33:41 - What surprised you most about the deadline?

37:25 - How did the Soto trade impact the market for the Cubs?

Cubs GM Carter Hawkins sits down with Cole Wright to discuss Willson Contreras' future, Nico Hoerner's emergence and more.

Plus, the Cubs Weekly panel of Elise Menaker, Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki recap the emotional series at Wrigley Field for Contreras and Ian Happ. The trio also previews the upcoming trade deadline and the stories they're following leading up to the busy day.

00:46 - Trivia

02:51 - Recapping emotional series at Wrigley Field for Contreras, Happ

07:34 - All eyes on the trade deadline

13:11 - Cole Wright sits down with Cubs GM Carter Hawkins

40:27 - Story of the week

Cubs vice president of scouting Dan Kantrovitz drops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to dissect the organization's 2022 MLB Draft haul.

Lance Brozdowski and Tony Andracki chat with Kantrovitz about the run on pitching (16 of the 20 selections were pitchers), two-way players, the timing of the draft and how the pre-draft plan came to fruition.

Elise Menaker, Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki chronicle the journey to the MLB All-Star game for a couple of Cubs - Ian Happ and Willson Contreras.

Plus: An All-Star themed trivia question, takeaways from the series with Baltimore and where the Orioles are at in their rebuild and how Kyle Hendricks' injury affects the rotation.

(00:28) Trivia
(02:45) Ian Happ's All-Star journey
(10:03) Willson Contreras' path to L.A.
(15:23) Takeaways from Cubs' series with Orioles
(21:29) Kyle Hendricks' injury and how it impacts the rotation
(26:59) HR Derby chatter
(30:48) Story of the Week

The theme of this week's podcast is Wrigley Field, as two members of the "Friendly Confines" crew stop by to detail their day-to-day duties.

Mira Emma, a groundscrew intern and an Iowa State soccer player, joins Elise Menaker for an interview on how she helps get the playing surface ready for the Cubs.

Also, security guard Fabian De Hoyos chats with Andy Martinez about his sudden rise to fame after going viral during a broadcast last week.

And then there was the defense of Wrigley Field that galvanized Cubs fans after a Boston Red Sox pitcher attacked the iconic ballpark.

Catch it all on this week's podcast:

(00:54) Cubs trivia question
(03:56) Seiya Suzuki's return and inside-the-park homer
(08:10) Mira Emma interview
(21:23) Fabian De Hoyos interview
(31:47) The legend of Fabian
(35:12) Story of the week

Elise Menaker, Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez discuss all the latest surrounding the Cubs - particularly how young players are making strides toward the future.

Topics include:

(00:35) A Kyle Hendricks trivia question
(06:54) A snippet from a new feature with Hendricks
(11:02) Nico Hoerner's incredible hot stretch
(16:15) Christopher Morel's growing pains
(22:24) Keegan Thompson's future in the rotation
(29:01) Our favorite stories of the week

The Cubs were forced to make a variety of tough pitching decisions this week, including optioning Adrian Sampson and top prospect Caleb Kilian down to the minors.

Elise Menaker, Taylor McGregor and Tony Andracki discuss why the Cubs made each move and what comes next for the team. Plus, an All-Star voting update brought about some surprises - and some very unsurprising developments.

The panel also provides injury updates and discusses how Nico Hoerner has proved all the doubters wrong.

Paul McAnulty - the hitting coach at Class-A South Bend in 2019 - joins the Cubs Weekly Podcast to discuss what Christopher Morel was like as a player coming up through the Cubs system and how the youngster morphed into a star rookie in the majors.

Plus, Elise Menaker, Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez chat about the state of the Cubs' rotation - including Kyle Hendricks' return to the mound, Justin Steele's development and Caleb Kilian's second stint in Chicago.

The panel also dissects Ian Happ's breakout season and how the 2022 Cubs are all about opportunity for players like Eric Stout.

Lance Brozdowski joins Elise Menaker and Tony Andracki on the Cubs Weekly Podcast. The trio discusses a host of young players in the organization, including Christopher Morel's breakout and Caleb Kilian's debut.

Plus, what prospects have taken a leap this season? And who are some young players we might see in Chicago later this year following in the footsteps of Morel and Kilian?

The panel also dissects Patrick Wisdom's adjustments at the plate and which Cubs players might be ticketed for the All-Star Game next month.

It would be difficult to script a better first couple weeks for Christopher Morel in the major leagues. Elise Menaker, Tony Andracki and Iowa Cubs broadcaster Alex Cohen dissect Morel's hot start and how he has impacted the Chicago team.

We also check in on how rehab assignments for David Bote and Alec Mills have gone in Iowa and updates on top prospects Caleb Kilian and Brennen Davis.

Plus, who will be next to make the trip from Iowa to Chicago to help the big-league club? And how is the new pitch clock affecting the game in the minor leagues?

The Conductor himself, Dan Plesac, stops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to chat with host Elise Menaker and Tony Andracki.

The trio discusses the Cubs' recent stretch of quality play, Christopher Morel's staying power, Frank Schwindel's resurgence and a return to health by Nico Hoerner and Willson Contreras.

Plus, who is next to get a statue outside Wrigley Field? And Plesac also weighs in on doubleheaders and his favorite Wrigley and Crosstown memories.

Fergie Jenkins' statue was unveiled at Wrigley Field this weekend and Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez provide their takeaways from the festivities, including what Billy Williams said.

Plus, hear from Jenkins as he speaks to the crowd on hand and explains what the honor means to him.

Also, Spencer Owen stops by Wrigley Field to detail his status as a Home Run Derby X Wild Card and how he is training to partner with Geovany Soto on the Cubs team in this summer's event.

Carlos Peña stops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to chat with host Cole Wright and Andy Martinez about the Cubs' recent play, including a an all-around team victory Monday night in San Diego.

From Kyle Hendricks' dominant outing to a strange week for Frank Schwindel to Nico Hoerner's budding stardom, the trio dissect every aspect of the Cubs roster - complete with pop culture references.

Plus, why are players not rewarded with an RBI if they drive in a run while grounding into a double play? Peña, Wright and Martinez debate.

Sean Marshall joins Elise Menaker and Tony Andracki to chat about the top takeaways from the Cubs in the first month of the 2022 season.

Marshall analyzes Marcus Stroman, Keegan Thompson, David Robertson and some other Cubs pitchers and provides his thoughts on this year's shortened Spring Training.

Plus, the panel discusses favorite Crosstown memories, including Marshall's throwback to his playing days.

Marshall, Menaker and Andracki also have a chat about the mental side of the game - with some help from Patrick Wisdom.

Baseball is weird. That is one of the main takeaways our Cubs Weekly Podcast panel (Elise Menaker and Tony Andracki) had from the 4-game set with the Pirates at Wrigley Field.

Menaker and Andracki analyze a few key areas of the roster coming into focus - including the batting order and bullpen. Plus, reinforcements could be on the horizon and Keegan Thompson's breakout season.

The Cubs' next 14 games are all against playoff contenders, so we will learn a lot about what this team is made of during this upcoming stretch.

The Cubs split their road series with the Pirates and Rockies, with their offensive showings catching the eye of our panel — Elise Menaker and Andy Martínez. The pair discuss the hot start for the Cubs’ bats that ranks in the top 10 of baseball in many offensive categories and the showings of Patrick Wisdom and Frank Schwindel.

Then, Menaker and Martínez breakdown Seiya Suzuki’s torrid start and what’s been most impressive so far.

Menaker and Martínez discuss the Cubs’ rotation and how the pitching staff will look as they continue to get stretched out and into full game rhythm.

With the Cubs taking 2 of 3 from the Brewers in the first series of 2022, our panel (Elise Menaker, Tony Andracki and Lance Brozdowksi) discuss the top takeaways from the weekend. Topics include Seiya Suzuki's historic debut, the success of the rotation and surprising developments.

Then, Brozdowski takes the group through his latest Top 25 Cubs prospect rankings, explaining why players slot in at each spot.

Who made the biggest leap? Who is poised to shoot up the list in 2022 or beyond? Which players just missed the cut? Brozdowski answers these questions and more.

The 2022 MLB season is upon us! Our panel (Elise Menaker, Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez) previews the Cubs season and provides predictions on a variety of topics, including:

-Favorite Spring Training moment

-2022 Cubs breakout player

-Under-the-radar players to keep an eye on

-Who will lead the Cubs in homers?

-Who will lead the Cubs in saves?

-Biggest surprise of the season

-Bold predictions

-Must-watch series for the season

Plus, Cubs second baseman Nick Madrigal stops by the podcast to chat about his unicorn approach at the plate, his thoughts on walk-up songs and how he will work with the team to stay healthy in 2022.

Reporting from Mesa, Ariz., host Elise Menaker is joined by Bruce Levine and Tony Andracki to touch on all the latest updates from Cubs camp.

From Seiya Suzuki's upcoming Cactus League debut to Willson Contreras' contract news to how the bullpen and pitching staff are shaping up, our crew discusses the most pertinent news.

On this week’s edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, Andy Martínez, Cole Wright and Bruce Levine discuss the news on the reported signing of Seiya Suzuki.

Then the trio breakdown the newest additions to the roster, including Marcus Stroman, Wade Miley and Andrelton Simmons. The crew also discusses some injury updates and Levine gives some insight on additions to the Cubs roster, all while celebrating the return of baseball.

Cubs first baseman Frank Schwindel stops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to chat with host Cole Wright and Tony Andracki.

Topics include:

-Schwindel's whirlwind 2021 season

-What led to his immediate success in Chicago?

-Interactions with Cubs fans

-How he plays so loose and relaxed on the field

-His favorite moment as a Cub

-Goals for 2022 and beyond

It was a strange weekend for the Cubs as they were forced back to Chicago after more positive tests on the Cardinals. Elise Menaker filled in as host of the Cubs Weekly podcast and chats with Marquee Sports Network's digital contributor Andy Martinez on how the Cubs navigated the awkward weekend while Jed Hoyer and David Ross also reacted to the looting in Chicago.

Then, second-round pick Burl Carraway joined Tony Andracki and Lance Brozdowski to run down what his experience has been like at the Cubs alternate training site in South Bend and how he developed velocity on his fastball that can now reach triple digits.

On the latest edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, Elise Menaker and Lance Brozdowski have a makeshift draft of what they believe are the top storylines of the Cubs 2021 Minor League season.

Plus, Cubs pitcher Adbert Alzolay and his wife sat down with Taylor McGregor to talk about his family, his journey to the major leagues and more.

On the latest edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, Elise Menaker and Lance Brozdowski debut an exclusive interview with Ed Howard in Class A Myrtle Beach. They also reflect on a conversation Lance had with Howard’s Mt. Carmel High School baseball coach, Brian Hurry, and reveal a special surprise Marquee put together for Howard’s interview.

But before those sit-downs, Menaker and Brozdowski chat about Owen Caissie, Christian Franklin, DJ Herz and Jordan Nwogu. They discuss Caissie’s Canadian high school roots and his cerebral approach to his swing and Franklin’s whirlwind last few months after being drafted in the 4th round by the Cubs this July. They also dig into Herz’s heart-warming hometown start, his recent promotion to South Bend and Nwogu’s relationship with Howard.

Then, Coach Hurry’s details what stands out about Howard’s on and off-field talents and how big of an impact he’s had on Mt. Carmel’s baseball program. And Ed Howard chats about his acclimation to Class A from high school, how much the Cubs mean to the city of Chicago and the close circle of support he relies on for motivation.

On the latest edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, Lance Brozdowski joins to discuss his Top 20 Cubs prospect rankings, which is live now on MarqueeSportsNetwork.com.

Brozdowski details how easy it was to choose No. 1 on the list (Brennen Davis) and also chats 1-on-1 with the young outfielder in Tennessee. Davis explains how he's adjusted to the jump from High-A to Double-A and his daily mental approach.

Brozdowski and Tony Andracki break down the rest of the Top 20 prospect rankings and how the order was determined after Davis at No. 1. Plus, what surprised Brozdowski as he talked to scouts and players and watched video in researching for this list? And what prospects are poised to make the greatest leap on the next iteration of the rankings?

Lance Brozdowski checks in from Arizona with Andy Martínez to give the latest on some of the Cubs pitching prospects on this edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast.

Brozdowski breaks down some of the adjustments that pitching prospects like Jordan Wicks, Caleb Killian and others have been working on in terms of pitch grips and mechanics.

We also get the latest on some minor changes that 2020 1st round pick Ed Howard has been working on in his swing. Then, Brozdowski shares some of the fun that the prospects have been having in camp.

Cubs Vice President of Player Development Jared Banner joins Tony Andracki and Lance Brozdowski on this edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast.

Banner discusses his new role, the Cubs' ongoing prospect camp in Arizona and some big picture concepts, including how the organization is making practice more difficult for players.

Plus, Banner gets into detail on a slew of Cubs prospects including Brennen Davis, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Caleb Kilian, D.J. Herz and James Triantos.

In a special Black History Month edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, hosts Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez have profound conversations with a pair of community leaders.

LaVonte Stewart Sr., the Founding Executive Director of Lost Boyz Inc., joins Andracki to discuss his organization and how he uses baseball to make a difference in the lives of young kids in Chicago.

Then, Tracy Abrams - the CEO of Chicago Positive Impact and former University of Illinois basketball star - joins Martinez to discuss the importance of mentorship and how that guides his organization in making the lives of children better.

Cubs icon Kerry Wood joins the Cubs Weekly Podcast with Tony Andracki and Bruce Levine. The 1998 National League Rookie of the Year touches on a variety of topics, including:

What role baseball plays in his life currently
Signing with the Cubs as a 17-year-old
Handling the national attention after the 20-strikeout performance
Dealing with adversity of injuries
How he was 20 minutes away from retiring in 2007
Best moments of his career
Favorite teammates and coaches
Leaving Chicago and joining new teams in Cleveland and New York
His relationship with Cubs fans
Emotions he felt as the Cubs won it all in 2016

MLB.com's national baseball reporter Jesse Sanchez joins Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez on the Cubs Weekly Podcast to break down the organization's international signing class, headlined by Alexis Hernandez (brother of Cristian Hernandez).

What should Cubs fans know about these prospects? The Cubs have notoriously been aggressive on the international market - how have they built up their development pipeline to help these prospects transition to the States?

Plus, scouting reports on previous international signings, like Cristian Hernandez and Reginald Preciado.

Bruce Miles covered the Cubs for over two decades and the veteran scribe joins the Cubs Weekly Podcast to chat with Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez about his memories on the beat.

From his first year in an eventful 1998 season to the Cubs heartbreak in 2003 to the magical fall of 2016, Miles was there to document every step of the way. He touches on some of his favorite managers to talk to, how the Cubs fanbase has changed over time and some of his most unforgettable moments.

Plus, Miles offers up advice for young journalists and details how the job has changed over the last 25 years.

On the latest edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, Andy Martinez and Bruce Levine are on location and recap the GM Meetings.

Then, they share their thoughts on the week, including a memorable road trip. The pair share what they think the Cubs' offseason will look like.

Plus, Levine chats with Jed Hoyer and Carter Hawkins to go more in-depth on the Cubs' offseason.

On the latest edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, Lance Brozdowski and Tony Andracki run down all the organizational news from Arizona as the Fall League gets underway. That included a visit to the Cubs complex from Brennen Davis, a recap of Nelson Velazquez's head-turning performance and a couple of interesting arms working along their development path.

Brozdowski then chats with Cubs prospect Andy Weber, a utility infielder who is gaining some valuable experience in the AFL.

Plus, Pat Hughes stops by the podcast for an enlightening chat on his recent induction into the Chicagoland Hall of Fame, amazing Ron Santo stories and how he interacts with Cubs fans throughout the offseason.

Rick Sutcliffe drops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast for one of the most entertaining episodes ever alongside host Cole Wright and Tony Andracki. The 1984 NL Cy Young winner tells stories from his playing days, including:

-An epic prank war with a well-known actor

-What he told Theo Epstein in 2012 to make the Cubs president throw his phone against the wall

-Why Dusty Baker was his favorite teammate

-The wild adventure on the night he was traded to the Cubs

-The first time he met Ron Santo

Plus, Sutcliffe details how he would add more offense into today's baseball and explains why he's so excited for the future of the Cubs, including an amazing testimonial of new GM Carter Hawkins.

The Cubs introduced their new general manager this week, Carter Hawkins. Cubs Weekly host Elise Menaker and Tony Andracki sum up the top takeaways from Hawkins' introductory press conference and explain how they think he fits in alongside Jed Hoyer in the front office.

Plus, Menaker and Taylor McGregor detail their respective experiences doing in-game sideline reports throughout the 2021 season and all the challenges and changes that came with that role. Such topics include the impact of fans on the broadcasts, interacting with players for stories and the differences in this season compared to 2020.

The Cubs Weekly Podcast panel ties a bow on the 2021 season, handing out superlatives. Host Elise Menaker, Bruce Levine and Tony Andracki offer their takes for the best moment of 2021, the biggest surprise, the most impactful roster move and more.

Then, the trio turns its attention to the offseason and makes bold predictions for how the winter may play out for the Cubs, the top takeaways from the MLB postseason and early picks for 2022 breakouts.

Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer has a laundry list of tasks he and his front office need to accomplish this season. Catch his interview with Cole Wright on the Cubs Weekly Podcast about the team's top priorities this winter and how Hoyer plans to attack the offseason.

Plus, Wright chats with Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez as the trio runs down their wish list for the Cubs offseason and what areas the Cubs need to address first.

On this episode of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez run down the latest topics surrounding the team as the 2021 season comes to a close.

From Patrick Wisdom's record-setting performance to what comes next for David Ross, the duo dissects each storyline. Plus, Alfonso Rivas' season-ending injury, Matt Duffy's potential place on the 2022 roster and a glimpse at what the pitching staff might look like down the road.

Host Cole Wright and Tony Andracki look to the future for the Cubs and how the team can turn their spoiler ways into a winning season in 2022.

What should the Cubs do with Nico Hoerner for the rest of this year and over the winter? Where do youngsters like Alfonso Rivas, Adbert Alzolay, Justin Steele and Keegan Thompson fit into the 2022 picture?

Plus, San Francisco Giants mental health advocate Drew Robinson stops by the pod to detail his experience throwing out the first pitch at Wrigley Field and how his incredible journey can help inspire today's athletes.

Wright and Andracki also chat a little Bears and what they saw from Justin Fields in his NFL debut.

The Cubs have won 8 of 9 and are thoroughly enjoying their role as spoiler in September.

Bruce Levine joins Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez on the Cubs Weekly Podcast to answer what the winning ways have taught us about this team and how the organization has navigated a strange time with David Ross' positive COVID test.

Plus, the panel evaluates a slew of players and how they might fit on the Cubs roster in 2022 and beyond, including:

Frank Schwindel
Patrick Wisdom
Rafael Ortega
Adrian Sampson
Alec Mills
Michael Hermosillo

Longtime Tennessee Smokies play-by-play broadcaster Mick Gillispie joins the Cubs Weekly Podcast to chat with Tony Andracki and Lance Brozdowski about the organization's Double-A affiliate.

Weaving in hilarious stories about Ryne Sandberg and Jody Davis, Gillispie explains what the last two years have been like down in the minor leagues and how some of the Cubs' top prospects have fared at the Double-A level.

From Brennen Davis to Christopher Morel to Caleb Kilian to a slew of under-the-radar players to keep an eye on, Gillispie provides his firsthand account of the youngsters coming up through the farm system.

This week's edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast is all about the future. We welcome in MLB Pipeline's senior writer Jim Callis to break down the organization's top prospects, including how Brailyn Marquez's injury affects his stock, when Brennen Davis might arrive at Wrigley Field and initial takeaways from the Cubs' trade deadline haul.

Plus, news and notes on Reginald Preciado, Kohl Franklin, Alexander Canario, Caleb Kilian, Cristian Hernandez and which prospect the Cubs received at the deadline was most surprising.

Tony Andracki and Lance Brozdowski also preview the Marquee Sports Network Top 20 Cubs prospect midseason list that is set to hit the digital sphere in the coming days.

The 26 hours leading up to the 2021 MLB trade deadline will go down as one of the most emotional times in franchise history for the Cubs fanbase. From Anthony Rizzo to Javy Báez to Kris Bryant, Jed Hoyer had to make some difficult decisions to do what he believed was best for the organization to move into its next chapter.

Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez break down all the trade deadline moves on the latest Cubs Weekly Podcast and sum up Hoyer's thoughts on the deals. They also analyze what's next for the Cubs over the final two months of 2021 and beyond.

This edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast is all about the next wave of talent in the organization.

Cubs scouting director Dan Kantrovitz stopped by the pod to run down the team's haul in this week's MLB Draft and explained how the organization ramped up for the draft and how the Cubs evaluate amateur prospects.

Marquee Sports Network's Tony Andracki and Lance Brozdowski also discuss a couple of pitching prospects already in the Cubs system: Ryan Jensen and Max Bain, who are currently developing in with Class-A South Bend.

The Cubs ended their 11-game losing streak Wednesday night at Wrigley Field - could this be the start of a hot stretch for the team? The schedule is certainly in their favor.

Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez dissect the win, put the 11-game losing streak into perspective and dive into the next few weeks that will dictate the future of the franchise.

Is Jed Hoyer's mind already made up on what path his front office should take at the deadline? What has to happen for the Cubs to get back into the race and become buyers? If they do become sellers, who goes at the deadline?

Plus, injury updates and what does the future hold for Jake Arrieta, Justin Steele and Keegan Thompson?

MLB.com reporter/researcher Sarah Langs joins the Cubs Weekly Podcast to chat with host Elise Menaker and Tony Andracki about the first half of the Cubs season.

From a statistical dive into the team's performance to providing context for Kris Bryant's versatility to how the NL Central race will play out as the season moves on, Langs provides insight on the Cubs' first 81 games.

The panel also discusses the top storylines in baseball so far this season, including Patrick Wisdom's incredible rookie year with the Cubs.

The Cubs made history Thursday night in LA with the franchise's first combined no-hitter. Elise Menaker was on the ground in LA for all the festivities and joined the Cubs Weekly Podcast to discuss the momentous occasion with Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki.

The panel breaks down the highlights from the combined no-no, including the relievers pitching without realizing what was going on, Willson Contreras' involvement and an interview with Craig Kimbrel right after the game.

We also hear from Champ Pederson, Joc's older brother, on receiving his World Series ring before Thursday's game and what that moment meant to him.

Plus, our panel zooms out on a difficult month of June for the Cubs and how the team has been able to stay afloat in the playoff race despite facing elite opponents and enduring grueling road trips.

"Sticky stuff" is a hot-button topic around Major League Baseball right now and we discussed the new rule changes on the latest Cubs Weekly Podcast with host Elise Menaker, Bruce Levine and Tony Andracki.

The panel touches on how the foreign substance crackdown will affect the game and the Cubs while also breaking down the team's difficult June schedule, where Patrick Wisdom fits into the Cubs' future plans and more.

Also, reliever Tommy Nance stops by for a conversation on his rookie season and how he's emerged as a force out of the Cubs bullpen.

The "next man up" mentality has been a huge key for the Cubs this season and that starts in Iowa. To get a glimpse into how the I-80 shuttle has become so frutiful for the organization, we talked to Iowa Cubs play-by-play broadcaster Alex Cohen and analyst/reporter Elise Menaker.

Marquee Sports Network is airing 14 days of Iowa Cubs action this summer, including on back-to-back days this week on June 10-11.

Menaker and Cohen break down the culture at Principal Park with Marty Pevey's club and explains how big-leaguers like Jason Heyward and Alec Mills have provided wisdom during rehab stints.

Speaking of wisdom, Cohen also explains Patrick Wisdom's journey from Iowa Cubs Opening Day starter to National League Player of the Week.

Plus, who are some other players to keep an eye on in Iowa that may impact the Chicago team down the road?

After a strong homestand and a sweep of the Padres, the Cubs have clearly sent a message to the rest of the National League that they are a force to be reckoned with.

Ryan Dempster joins host Cole Wright and Tony Andracki to break down the Cubs' recent hot streak and how the team has changed the narrative after an 11-15 April. Dempster also shares what advice he gave to Anthony Rizzo that still resonates today and recounts an amazing Vince Vaughn story.

Plus, a chat with Cubs pitcher Tommy Nance and his father, Mark, who is afflicted with ALS. June 2 was the inaugural Lou Gehrig Day around Major League Baseball to raise awareness and funding for ALS and those families living with the disease.

On the latest edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, Iowa Cubs pitching coach Ron Villone stops by for a chat on the young arms in the organization and how they each forged a path to the big leagues.

Villone discusses his time with Adbert Alzolay, Justin Steele, Tommy Nance and others and provides a unique lens to view the Cubs' young pitchers.

Plus, Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez break down all the injuries for the Cubs and what it means for the team moving forward as they wrap up a really successful month of May.

Doug Glanville stops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to chat with host Cole Wright and Tony Andracki about a couple of buzz topics surrounding Major League Baseball lately - unwritten rules and analytics.

Glanville hosts Class is in Session on Marquee Sports Network and explains what stood out to him most from a recent episode revolving around analytics and their role in today's game. He also explains why Kris Bryant's versatility cannot be measured on paper and the trio discuss how the Cubs have turned around their offense in part by going against some analytics.

Plus, an open conversation about the White Sox unwritten rules controversy and an interview with the Cubs new PA announcer Jeremiah Paprocki.

On the latest edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, reporters Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez run down the team's recent road trip and how all the injuries are impacting the roster. Plus, we dive into how the Cubs have turned things around offensively this season and Andy nerds out with some "Avengers" comparisons.

We also welcome in Cubs director Mike Fox and Cubs productions producer/editor Pat Gostele (20:47) for a behind-the-scenes look at the Megalodon, Marquee Sports Network's groundbreaking new camera that created a buzz at the ballpark on the last homestand.

As the Cubs claimed a series victory over the Dodgers with a doubleheader sweep, David Ross' group has exhibited some encouraging signs lately.

Host Cole Wright is joined by reporters Taylor McGregor and Tony Andracki on the latest Cubs Weekly Podcast to run down some of those promising tidbits, including:

Kyle Hendricks' bounceback start
The offense jumping on Clayton Kershaw
David Bote's "clutch" gene
Kris Bryant's resurgent season
Young pitchers showing potential

The first month of the 2021 season is in the books and we have learned plenty about the Cubs so far.

We break it all down on the latest Cubs Weekly Podcast with host Cole Wright, Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez. The trio provides reaction to the big Bears draft pick and weigh in on how they believe the Cubs lineup will be structured moving forward.

Plus, analysis on the pitching staff, injury updates and the return of Minor League Baseball.

The Cubs’ pulled out a small-ball win over the Mets and sit at 8-9. The offense has shown some signs of resurgence and Sean Marshall and Andy Martinez join host Cole Wright to break it down on the latest Cubs Weekly Podcast.

The trio discuss Anthony Rizzo heating up, the bright spots of the rotation and bullpen and Marshall breaks down just

Two weeks into the 2021 season, the Cubs sit at 5-7. But there's reason for optimism with this offense and Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez read the tea leaves on the latest Cubs Weekly Podcast.

The two Cubs reporters discuss why the peripheral stats indicate good fortune may be coming for the likes of Ian Happ and Anthony Rizzo while Kris Bryant has been a consistent bright spot in this lineup. Plus, we hear from Jed Hoyer on his assessment of the first 12 games and where the Cubs go from here.

Cole Wright, Ryan Sweeney and Tony Andracki analyze the first week of the 2021 season and what we learned about this Cubs team.

What takeaways are there from the offense's early performance? Will this rotation continue to surprise people? How has David Ross handled rotations for the position players? What kind of effect does Craig Kimbrel's dominance have on the rest of the bullpen? Does Andrew Chafin have the best mustache in baseball? (Yes. The answer is yes.)

We break it all down on the latest episode of the Cubs Weekly Podcast.

Our Cubs Weekly crew (host Cole Wright, Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez) preview and predict the 2021 MLB season and break down how David Ross' roster is shaping up for Opening Day.

The trio provides thoughts on a host of categories for the season, including:

-NL Central standings

-Cubs MVP

-Cubs Cy Young

-Cubs breakout player

-Comeback player of the year

-Biggest surprise on the 2021 Cubs

-Bold predictions

-Series to circle on the Cubs' 2021 schedule

Elise Menaker steps in as host of the Cubs Weekly Podcast as she and Tony Andracki discuss the Cubs roster crunch, expectations for the 2021 pitching staff and the team's offensive adjustments as they look to put 2020 in the rearview mirror.

Elise also chronicles her record-setting softball career at Cornell University and her journey in media.

Later, artist/muralist Kate Lynn Lewis stops by the podcast to relay her collaboration with the Cubs for Women's History Month.

Former MLB.com beat reporter Carrie Muskat stops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to chat about her illustrious 40-year career in the industry and her new book "The Big 50: The Men and Moments That Made the Chicago Cubs."

Carrie revisits her favorite moments from her time covering the Cubs and the relationships she built along the way, including a special moment she shared with Anthony Rizzo after the 2016 World Series.

Host Cole Wright and Tony Andracki also break down the latest storylines from Cubs camp, including: Shelby Miller's impressive spring, Adbert Alzolay's role, the backup catcher spot and a rebound season from Javy Báez.

Taylor McGregor, Andy Martínez and host Cole Wright react to the return of fans to Wrigley Field and other storylines from camp. McGregor also discusses her position as a role model and woman in sports media.

Beth Mowins stops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast for a candid chat with host Cole Wright and Tony Andracki about her career, her new role with Marquee Sports Network and her thoughts on bunting. During the 2021 season, Mowins will become the first woman to serve as a play-by-play broadcaster for a Cubs game (19:57).

Wright and Andracki also touch on the latest from Cubs camp, including the position battles worth keeping an eye on at second base and in the bullpen. Plus, how Joc Pederson is fitting in and the tough decision the Cubs face with Nico Hoerner.

Year 2 of Camp Rossy is in full effect as the Cubs prepare for the 2021 season. Host Cole Wright is joined by Andy Martinez and Tony Andracki to discuss the biggest observations from the first week of spring training and how the roster is coming together.

Plus, Cole chats with Ian Happ about his 2020 adjustments and goals for the new season.

Spring is in the air...in Arizona, at least.

Cubs pitchers and catchers reported to their Mesa, Ariz., complex this week and we broke it all down on the Cubs Weekly Podcast with host Cole Wright and Tony Andracki.

The Jake Arrieta signing became official this week and our panel discusses what he brings to the table in the locker room and how his arrival will impact the rest of the rotation.

Plus, Cole and Tony tackle a slew of other pitching topics with help from Kyle Hendricks, Jed Hoyer and Tommy Hottovy.

On the latest episode of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, Professor Doug Glanville stops by to teach host Cole Wright and Tony Andracki a thing or two.

Among the topics include Glanville's new show, "Class is in Session" on Marquee Sports Network, how Glanville navigated the shift from a Major League Baseball player to a professor and author in his post-playing career and his thoughts on the league's new rules.

Glanville also provides an emotional farewell to his friend and colleague Pedro Gomez, the legendary and affable ESPN baseball reporter who passed away Sunday.

Marquee Sports Network associate producer and prospect analyst Lance Brozdowski joins host Cole Wright and Tony Andracki on the Cubs Weekly Podcast to discuss the latest Top 20 prospect rankings.

Brozdowski spoke to many around the game - including scouts - to devise this Top 20 list and provides in-depth analysis on each prospect in addition to rationale behind the rankings.

He also gives his take on which Cubs prospects are poised for the biggest jump in 2021 and how the next iteration of this list might look.

With the MLB offseason approaching its endgame, the panel breaks down the Cubs' winter and how it stacks up against the rest of the league on the latest episode of the Cubs Weekly Podcast.

Host Cole Wright is joined by Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez to discuss a wide array of topics, including:

What Austin Romine's signing means (0:40)
Cubs selling opportunity - who will step up in 2021? (3:57)
An in-depth look at the state of the pitching staff (7:25)
What should the Cubs do with Nico Hoerner to begin the season? (16:19)
Which core player is primed for the biggest rebound? (21:22)
Who plays left field in 2021? (26:00)
How the Cubs fit in what has been a strange winter for the NL Central (32:15)
What other division in baseball bears watching this season? (36:20)

On this week's edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, vice president of player development Matt Dorey stops by to dive into the organization's farm system with host Cole Wright and Tony Andracki.

Among the topics Dorey touched on include:

Development during a strange 2020 (1:35)
Managing a cautious vs. aggressive approach in 2021 (5:26)
Prospects who could make an impact in the big leagues in 2021 (9:14)
Development of young pitchers like Kohl Franklin, Ryan Jensen and Cory Abbott (14:09)
How Brennen Davis has emerged as Cubs' top prospect (20:22)
What the future holds for Miguel Amaya (24:59)
2021 breakout prospects (28:56)

Jon "Boog" Sciambi - the new face and voice of Cubs TV broadcasts - joined the Cubs Weekly Podcast with host Cole Wright for a conversation about his life, baseball and expectations for the new role.

Topics include:

Navigating the whirlwind interview process in a Zoom world (3:34)
His broadcasting idols (5:12)
What Christian Yelich recently DM'd him (7:01)
His amazing Harry Caray story (8:03)
Musical tastes (12:54)
His friendship with Rick Sutcliffe (16:07)
What he saw in the 2020 Cubs (17:13)
The state of baseball today (19:30)
Thoughts on coffee and chapstick (25:41)
His experience broadcasting KBO games last year (30:25)
Why ALS hits close to his heart (32:19)

After the Cubs traded away Yu Darvish and Victor Caratini in exchange for Zach Davies and four prospects, Cole Wright had an extensive chat with Jed Hoyer (4:17) about the deal and what comes next for the franchise. Wright and Tony Andracki break down the move and analyze the biggest takeaways from Hoyer's statements on the trade.

Plus, MLB Pipeline's Jim Callis (26:28) also stops by the podcast to provide a scouting report on the four prospects the Cubs received from the Padres and how the farm system is shaping up entering 2021.

Taylor McGregor catches up with David Ross (11:15) on the Cubs Weekly Podcast to discuss how his offseason has been after his rookie season as manager, how he deals with trade rumors and Jed Hoyer taking over for Theo Epstein.

Plus, Taylor shares with host Cole Wright some of her behind-the-scenes perspective from covering the Cubs games at Wrigley Field in 2020, including all of the cool ins and outs she got to experience within the historic ballpark.

Elise Menaker takes the reins as host of this week's Cubs Weekly podcast with guests Bruce Levine and Sean Marshall as the trio breaks down the 2020 Winter Meetings. New Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer also joins the podcast for an exclusive interview about a variety of topics as the 2021 season approaches.

The Cubs introduced Jed Hoyer as the new president of baseball operations Monday and we break it all down on the Cubs Weekly Podcast. Host Cole Wright talks with Len Kasper and Bruce Levine about the immediate and long-term challenges Hoyer faces and what kind of leader Hoyer will be.

Plus, an exclusive interview with Hoyer as he discusses the next step in chapter in his career, his time working alongside Theo Epstein and the immediate future for the ballclub.

On this edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, we discuss Theo Epstein's departure from the Cubs front office. Host Cole Wright chats with Len Kasper and Bruce Levine about what Epstein has meant to this Cubs team over the last nine years and what comes next.

Plus, an exclusive interview with Theo Epstein.

Cubs radio broadcaster Pat Hughes joins the Cubs Weekly Podcast to relive his legendary career with host Cole Wright and Tony Andracki. From classic Ron Santo stories to memories of the 2016 World Series run, Hughes reflects on the best moments of his 25 years with the Cubs.

He also explained what the strange 2020 season was like for him, including how Ronald Reagan's advice helped him out in one crucial moment.

Hughes is the play-by-play broadcaster for the Cubs for WSCR 670 The Score.

Ryan Dempster stops by as the guest on the latest Cubs Weekly Podcast, reflecting back on the fateful fall of 2016 and the current state of baseball. The former Cubs pitcher tells stories of his Game 7 experience and shares what it was like in the clubhouse celebration after the game.

Dempster also shares his recent conversation with David Ross and how "Off the Mound" has grown from a Cubs Convention staple to a weekly show and podcast with some of the biggest names in baseball.

Catch the entire conversation as Dempster joins host Cole Wright and Tony Andracki as they discuss the role of analytics in baseball, Jon Lester's awesome gesture to Cubs fans and more.

With the Los Angeles Dodgers hoisting the World Series trophy this week, that means the MLB offseason is officially upon us.

What will be the main area of focus for the Cubs front office this winter? Will the DH stick around in the National league and if so, how will the Cubs approach the position this winter?

Host Cole Wright is joined by Bruce Levine and Tony Andracki to break down every facet of the Cubs offseason and each provides their bold predictions on how the winter will play out.

Ryan Sweeney drops by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to join host Cole Wright and Tony Andracki to break down the 2020 season that was for the Chicago Cubs.

What was this year like to watch and cover? What comes next for this lineup? And what does the future hold for Theo Epstein? The panel addresses these topics and more while also taking some time to appreciate the best six-year stretch in franchise history.

It's going to be a wild postseason and the Cubs will kick it all off by facing a team they haven't seen at all in the regular season. So what has this 2020 season been like for the Miami Marlins and how do they stack up against the Cubs?

Marlins.com beat writer Joe Frisaro stops by the podcast to give Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez insight into this Marlins team and what the keys to the matchup will be in the best-of-3 series at Wrigley Field.

Frisaro gives the full scouting report on the young pitchers the Marlins will throw at the Cubs this week and also shares some awesome stories of former Cubs reliever Brandon Kintzler, who is now the Miami closer.

Sean Marshall joins host Cole Wright and Tony Andracki on the latest Cubs Weekly Podcast to break down the huge five-game set with the Cardinals and what the bookend wins say about this 2020 Cubs team.

Plus, the trio gives their take on the biggest "quees" to the home stretch of the regular season, including Jon Lester's return to form, how the new acquisitions might fit into the mix and how the offense turns a corner to put up the type of consistent production it has been aiming to regain since the early part of the campaign.

Marshall also provides firsthand experience on what a guy like Billy Hamilton brings to a clubhouse and how he can affect this Cubs team over the final three weeks.

Cubs Weekly host Cole Wright and Tony Andracki caught up with John Farley and Brett Jackson (yes, the former Cubs outfielder) from Weather Applied Metrics stop by the podcast for a chat about their technology utilized during the Marquee Sports Network broadcasts at Wrigley Field.

Farley and Jackson explain how the flags at Wrigley often betray what the wind is actually doing at a field level or how the wind can swirl and wreak havoc on the game. They also explain how Wrigley compares to other ballparks around the game and how teams can utilize this technology to their advantage in the future.

What was the biggest takeaway from the Cubs' five-game series against the Cardinals at Wrigley Field? When Kris Bryant returns, does David Ross immediately slot him back into the leadoff spot? How do the Cubs stack up against the 2020 White Sox?

Our Cubs Weekly panel answers these questions and more as host Cole Wright is joined by Bruce Levine and Tony Andracki to recap the crazy week that was and look ahead to the Crosstown Series this weekend at Wrigley Field.

Doug Glanville recently wrote an op-ed for the New York Times about baseball's place in the pandemic and how the fight for the regular season is bigger than the sport. He stopped by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to discuss his thoughts on the matter with host Cole Wright and Taylor McGregor. The trio also broke down the "Rossian culture" that has helped the Cubs jump out to a 7-2 start to the season.

Then, Elise Menaker and Tony Andracki recap the Cubs' weekend sweep of the Pirates and their thoughts on the new extra-innings rule.

Before this week's podcast wraps up, Cubs reliever Dan Winkler dropped by to relay his firsthand experience of the Cubs-Cardinals rivalry growing up in Central Illinois and how his family with split allegiances reacted to his signing in Chicago.

Kyle Hendricks tossed an absolute masterpiece Friday night, but Bill Murray stole the show nationwide with his hilarious rendition of the 7th Inning Stretch. Marquee Sports Network GM Mike McCarthy joins Cole Wright and Taylor McGregor on the Cubs Weekly Podcast to explain how the viral video came to fruition.

Then, Wright and McGregor are joined by Tony Andracki as the trio breaks down the Cubs' first series of the regular season. What can a performance like Tyler Chatwood's outing on Sunday mean for this rotation moving forward? How does Yu Darvish rebound? How can David Ross' first series as manager be summed up? And what's next for the Cubs as they hit the road for Cincinnati?

The 2020 season is right around the corner and the Cubs Weekly podcast gets you ready for the year with updates from summer camp and predictions for what the campaign has in store. Host Cole Wright is joined by Taylor McGregor and Tony Andracki to provide their respective takeaways from the first two exhibition games against the White Sox and how the pitching staff is shaping up with the season a few days away. Then the trio offers up predictions for the 2020 Cubs season - a bold prediction each, thoughts on what the Cubs final record will be and breakout players to keep an eye on.

On the latest episode of the Cubs Weekly podcast, host Cole Wright and Tony Andracki are joined by Bruce Levine to answer the burning questions surrounding the team's pitching staff two weeks into summer camp: How does Jon Lester look and how built up will he be for the regular season? Who will take the final two spots in the rotation and how does that impact the bullpen? And if Bruce were managing the Cubs, how would he handle the DH spot all year?

Bleed Cubbie Blue’s Sara Sanchez also stops by to discuss what Wrigleyville has been like during a pandemic and what the Cubs have meant to her throughout her life.

Marquee Sports Network digital reporters Tony Andracki and Andy Martinez run down their first impressions of the Cubs 2020 schedule, including series to circle and why it could be a favorable slate. The duo then provides their first impressions of Cubs summer camp at Wrigley Field from the holiday weekend. Such topics include the advanced approach at the plate by the hitters and how the Cubs plan to address the rotation in José Quintana's absence. Plus, Kris Bryant's honest assessment of his future and why he might be primed for a huge 2020 campaign.

Baseball is finally back! The Cubs are gearing up for the 2020 campaign with Spring Training 2.0 at Wrigley Field beginning next week.

Host Cole Wright breaks down the return of Cubs baseball with Taylor McGregor and Tony Andracki in the latest episode of the Cubs Weekly Podcast. The trio touches on what they're looking forward to most, plus how they anticipate the new rule changes affecting the Cubs.

They also give their early predictions on the 2020 Cubs campaign.

On a special Juneteenth edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, host Cole Wright relays his Cubs 360 Daily discussion with Andre Dawson, Shawon Dunston, Doug Glanville and Bruce Levine about race and diversity in baseball and beyond.

Plus, with Father's Day coming up, the panel describes the impact their parents had on them as they were growing up and trying to become successful.

After the Cubs wrapped up their 5-round Draft, the organization's vice president of scouting Dan Kantrovitz stopped by the Cubs Weekly Podcast to share his thoughts on the picks.

Kantrovitz is in his first year running the draft for the Cubs and believes it could not have gone any better, from the Ed Howard pick 16th overall to Koen Moreno in the 5th round.

Then, MLB Pipeline's senior writer Jim Callis shared his thoughts on the Cubs draft with Cole Wright and Tony Andracki.

In addition to evaluating each of the 5 picks, Callis explains what comes next for the Cubs and other MLB teams after the Draft and also made a bold statement about a current prospect in the Cubs system.

Hall of Famer and Cubs legend Andre "Hawk" Dawson stopped by the latest edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast to chat with host Cole Wright and Tony Andracki.

Dawson spoke on a variety of topics, from the Black Lives Matter protests and the current state of our country to the upcoming 10-year anniversary of his Hall of Fame induction. The Hawk also details his famous magazine shoot with Michael Jordan and Walter Payton, a creative way a fan at Wrigley Field helped him break out of a slump and the emotions he felt as he watched the 2016 Cubs finally win the World Series.

As Major League Baseball and the Players Association continue their negotiations in a bid to return to play, Cole Wright, Tony Andracki and Bruce Levine discuss what the 2020 season might look like for the Cubs and other teams. The trio also discusses how a lack of a minor league season could impact the game. Then, Cubs quality assurance coach Mike Napoli stops by to chat about his new job with the team, his World Series experiences and how he's helped make sure Anthony Rizzo will be ready to go whenever the season begins.

On the latest edition of the Cubs Weekly Podcast, former manager Lou Piniella stops by to chat for a few minutes on his thoughts about baseball's shutdown and how much different a shortened season would be on every team. Then Cole Wright and Tony Andracki discuss a variety of topics, including how David Ross' managerial style would be impacted by a shortened season, if younger players may be better positioned for this current landscape and how playing in front of zero fans would affect the Cubs and other teams.

On the debut edition of the Cubs Weekly podcast, host Cole Wright chats with broadcaster Len Kasper about baseball, his path to the booth and their Ultimate Cubs Lineups. Cubs Weekly Podcast, presented by Wintrust - Marquee Sports Network Podcasts