Rumors are swirling again — could the Chicago Cubs actually consider signing Max Scherzer to a 1-year deal? In today’s episode, Mike breaks down why this move doesn’t make sense for the Cubs’ long-term pitching plan, the risks involved, and what fans should realistically expect.
We also dive into the breaking news out of Washington: reports suggest MacKenzie Gore could be available via trade. The Cubs checked in once before — but should they circle back now that the market is shifting? Mike analyzes Gore’s upside, injury history, cost, and what a potential deal might look like.
PLUS — we wrap up with another great Viewer Question from the Cubs Central community!
If you’re a die-hard Cubs fan and crave honest, intelligent, and passionate baseball talk… hit that LIKE button, subscribe, and join the conversation!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsCentral #MaxScherzer #MadMax #MacKenzieGore #CubsRumors #MLBTradeRumors #CubsNews #BleedCubbieBlue #GoCubsGo #MLBOffseason #BaseballTalk
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In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we dive deep into the Cubs’ rumored interest in Kansas City Royals left-hander Kris Bubic, a former first-round pick coming off season-ending surgery. The Cubs have reportedly checked in on Bubic as a potential buy-low pitching option — but is he a smart upside play, or another bargain-bin gamble when Chicago needs REAL rotation upgrades?
We break down Bubic’s profile, his pre-injury improvements, his recovery timeline, and whether he could fit into the Cubs’ 2025 pitching plans.
Then we shift to a major topic stirring up the fanbase: Bruce Levine’s comments telling Cubs fans to “trust Jed and Carter” and ignore the noise.
Well… today we explain EXACTLY why Cubs fans should not blindly trust the front office right now.
From failed timelines to lack of big signings, to constantly “checking in” but never pulling the trigger — this episode lays out the truth.
The MLB offseason is heating up — and the Chicago Cubs are right in the middle of it! In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we dive into TWO blockbuster trade rumors that could reshape the North Side:
💣 Could the Cubs trade for Ketel Marte? Reports out of Arizona say the Diamondbacks may be willing to move their All-Star infielder — and Jed Hoyer could be tempted to add a switch-hitting spark to the lineup.
🔥 Or will the Cubs swing BIG for Fernando Tatis Jr.? With the Padres facing serious financial trouble, Bob Nightengale reports Tatis could be on the market — and the Cubs might just have the prospects to pull it off.
🎙 Hosted by Mike Jones — your home for breaking Cubs news, bold offseason takes, and deep-dive analysis all winter long.
#Cubs #ChicagoCubs #CubsRumors #MLBOffseason #KetelMarte #FernandoTatisJr #KyleTucker #Dodgers #MLBRumors #CubsNews #GoCubsGo
In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we break down Jed Hoyer’s headline-making comments from the MLB GM Meetings! Hoyer confirmed the Cubs aren’t closing the door on a possible Shota Imanaga return, but he also revealed the team’s main offseason focus is pitching.
So what does that mean for the Cubs’ pursuit of Kyle Tucker, Kyle Schwarber, or any other big-name position players? Are the Cubs done adding bats — or could a surprise move still be coming?
We’ve got the full breakdown of Hoyer’s comments, what they really mean for Chicago’s offseason game plan, and how it could shape the 2025 roster.
⚾️ Topics we cover:
Jed Hoyer’s quotes on Shota Imanaga’s future with the Cubs
Why pitching is the Cubs’ #1 offseason priority
What this means for Kyle Tucker, Kyle Schwarber, and other top free agents
How Chicago’s budget could impact big splash signings
What Cubs fans should expect next
👉 Don’t miss this deep dive into the Cubs’ offseason strategy — subscribe now for the latest Cubs news, rumors, and updates from Chicago Cubs Central!
🔥 In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central 🔥 Mike breaks down a wild week of Cubs news — and it starts with Cade Horton getting snubbed in the NL Rookie of the Year race! 😤 Horton finishes second to the Braves’ Drake Baldwin, sparking a major debate about MLB’s award system and how fan voting is skewing results. From PCA (Pete Crow-Armstrong) missing out on the Platinum Glove to Horton losing the ROY, are MLB awards becoming a popularity contest? 👀⚾
Then, we say goodbye to a Cubs legend — Kyle Hendricks retires. 🧢 Mike looks back at Hendricks’ incredible career, his World Series legacy, and asks the question: Could “The Professor” be heading into coaching next?
Finally, MLB insider Bob Nightengale drops a bombshell: the Cubs are expected to spend big this offseason 💰 — targeting starting pitching and corner outfield help. Mike breaks down who fits the Cubs’ wishlist and what fans can expect as the front office reloads for 2025.
🎯 Don’t miss this one, Cubs fans — like, comment, and subscribe for all the latest Cubs offseason coverage!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsNews #CadeHorton #KyleHendricks #MLBFreeAgency #BobNightengale #CubsOffseason #PeteCrowArmstrong #MLBAwards #CubsBaseball #GoCubsGo
🔥 In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central 🔥 Mike breaks down the 5 hottest topics heading into the MLB GM Meetings in Las Vegas! 🏙️⚾
From Kyle Tucker trade buzz to Shota Imanaga’s contract drama, plus Cade Horton’s Rookie of the Year push, Mike covers everything Cubs fans need to know heading into a pivotal offseason. 💥
We’ll also dive into two major questions:
⚙️ How do the Cubs rebuild their starting rotation?
💪 What’s the plan to fix the bullpen once and for all?
If you’re a die-hard Cubs fan or just love offseason rumors, this is one you don’t want to miss!
📺 Tune in now — subscribe, like, and drop your thoughts in the comments on what move the Cubs should make first!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsNews #MLB #GMMeetings #KyleTucker #ShotaImanaga #CadeHorton #CubsOffseason #BaseballTalk
Bleacher Report just dropped a list of potential pitchers the Chicago Cubs could target this offseason, and the names are loaded with star power — Ranger Suárez, Dylan Cease, Michael King, Framber Valdez, Brandon Woodruff, Zac Gallen, and Merrill Kelly.
In this episode, Mike Jones breaks down every name on the list — their 2025 stats, strengths, weaknesses, and how each one fits the Cubs’ rotation going into next season. Who should Chicago prioritize as their next big arm?
We cover everything from top-tier aces like Framber Valdez to value picks like Merrill Kelly, and even explore risky high-upside options like Dylan Cease and Brandon Woodruff.
📊 Pitchers Discussed & 2025 Stats:
Ranger Suárez – 12-8, 3.20 ERA, 151 K, 1.22 WHIP
Dylan Cease – 8-12, 4.55 ERA, 215 K, 1.33 WHIP
Michael King – 5-3, 3.44 ERA, 76 K, 1.20 WHIP
Framber Valdez – 13-11, 3.66 ERA, 187 K, 1.24 WHIP
Brandon Woodruff – 7-2, 3.20 ERA, 83 K, 0.91 WHIP
Zac Gallen – 13-15, 4.83 ERA, 175 K, 1.26 WHIP
Merrill Kelly – 12-9, 3.52 ERA, 167 K, 1.11 WHIP
🎯 In This Episode:
Who the Cubs should target first
Which pitchers fit Chicago’s rotation needs best
Which arms are high-risk/high-reward
What kind of deals make the most sense for the Cubs in 2025
💬 Comment Below:
Who do YOU think the Cubs should go after — Framber Valdez, Dylan Cease, or someone else?
📺 Subscribe for all the latest Cubs offseason rumors, trade targets, and free-agent news every week on Chicago Cubs Central!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsNews #MLBFreeAgency #CubsRumors #CubsOffseason #BleacherReport #MLBNews #RangerSuarez #DylanCease #FramberValdez #BrandonWoodruff #ZacGallen #MerrillKelly #MichaelKing
Free agency is officially open, and the Chicago Cubs are expected to make a huge move this offseason. MLB insider Jesse Rogers says the Cubs are due to sign a really big free agent — but who could it be? Mike Jones breaks down all the possibilities and what it means for the team heading into 2025.
Plus, we dive into Shota Imanaga’s surprising offseason moves — could he return on a one-year deal before pitching in Japan in 2027 if there’s an MLB lockout? And what does that mean for the Cubs rotation?
We also cover Kyle Tucker’s Silver Slugger Award, and the fact that both Tucker and Imanaga received qualifying offers. How could that affect the Cubs’ offseason plans?
👉 Topics Covered:
Jesse Rogers says the Cubs are ready to land a major free agent
Shota Imanaga’s contract decision and possible one-year return
MLB lockout rumors for 2027 and how it impacts free agency strategy
Kyle Tucker wins a Silver Slugger Award
Qualifying offers for Tucker & Imanaga and what it means for the Cubs
💬 Comment below: Who do you think the Cubs’ “big free agent” will be this winter?
⬇️ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for all things Chicago Cubs Central!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsNews #MLBFreeAgency #ShotaImanaga #KyleTucker #CubsRumors #MLBNews #JesseRogers #CubsBaseball #CubsOffseason #WeBookItPodcast
The Cubs leaned on Jameson Taillon in 2025, and he delivered when it mattered most — but can he step up even more in 2026? ⚾🔥
In this episode, we break down his 2025 campaign:
Record: 11‑7
ERA: 3.68
Strikeouts: 98
WHIP: 1.06
Hard-hit % allowed: 39.7%
Barrel % allowed: 8.6%
💡 We’ll cover:
What made Taillon a reliable arm in the Cubs rotation
Key areas for improvement: command, durability, and deeper outings
How he fits into Chicago’s rotation mix with young arms emerging
Goals for 2026: Can he be a difference-making starter for the Cubs?
👀 The Big Question:
Will Jameson Taillon elevate his game in 2026, or was 2025 his peak for the Cubs?
💬 Drop your thoughts below — how do you see Taillon performing next season?
🎧 Subscribe to Chicago Cubs Central for in-depth analysis, player breakdowns, and the latest Cubs news from Wrigley Field!
The future of the Chicago Cubs’ rotation is HERE — and his name is Cade Horton. 🔥
After an impressive 2025 rookie campaign, Horton proved he’s not just hype — he’s a cornerstone in the making. In this episode, we break down his stellar debut and ask: What can Cade Horton do to take the next step in 2026?
⚾️ 2025 Season Highlights:
Record: 11–4
ERA: 2.67
Innings: 118.0
Strikeouts: 97
WHIP: 1.08
🔥 Debuted May 10, 2025 — quickly became one of the Cubs’ most reliable arms!
💡 We’ll cover:
What made Horton’s rookie year so dominant
Areas for improvement (command, pitch mix, stamina)
How he can lower his hard-hit rate and go deeper into games
Where he fits in the Cubs’ 2026 rotation
What realistic goals look like for Year 2: 150+ innings? 200 Ks? ERA under 3.00?
👀 The Big Question:
Can Cade Horton become the next great Cubs ace? Or will MLB hitters adjust in 2026?
💬 Drop your thoughts below — what’s YOUR prediction for Horton’s 2026 season?
🎧 Subscribe to Chicago Cubs Central for all things Cubs: pitching breakdowns, roster moves, and offseason updates from Wrigley Field!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsCentral #GoCubsGo #CadeHorton #MLBProspects #CubsBaseball #CubsPodcast #WrigleyField
Host Mike Jones breaks down a shocking move out of Wrigley Field — the Chicago Cubs have rejected their team option to extend Shota Imanaga, and in response, Imanaga has declined his $15 million player option! 😱
What does this mean for the Cubs’ rotation heading into 2026?
Could Imanaga be testing the free-agent market for a bigger payday — or is Chicago planning a new long-term deal?
⚾️ In this episode:
🔍 Full breakdown of Imanaga’s 2025 season stats (13-7, 3.29 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 172 K)
💰 What declining the option means for both sides financially
🧩 How this move affects the Cubs’ rotation plans for 2026
👀 Possible replacements or free-agent targets
💭 Could Shota Imanaga still return to Chicago on a new deal?
📣 The Big Question:
Did the Cubs make the right call — or will they regret letting their star lefty walk?
💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments!
And don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and turn on notifications for all your Cubs news and offseason updates.
#ChicagoCubs #ShotaImanaga #CubsCentral #MLBNews #GoCubsGo #CubsRumors #CubsPodcast #WrigleyField
The catcher conversation in Chicago is HEATING UP! 🔥
With Carson Kelly playing some of his best baseball behind the plate — batting .249 with 17 HR and 50 RBI — has he locked down the Cubs’ starting catcher role for good? 🤔
Meanwhile, Miguel Amaya’s future is in question after another injury setback. The young backstop showed promise (.281 AVG, .348 wOBA), but durability remains the big question mark. Can the Cubs trust him long-term, or is he trade bait now that Kelly’s proving his worth?
⚾️ Episode Highlights:
📊 Stats Breakdown: Amaya’s development vs. Kelly’s consistency
🩹 Injury Watch: Is Amaya’s health costing him his roster spot?
💰 Contract Outlook: How Kelly’s 2-year deal impacts the Cubs’ catching plans
🔍 Free Agent Catcher Market (2025 Winter):
We scout potential names like Danny Jansen, Kyle Higashioka, Yasmani Grandal, and Jacob Stallings — could the Cubs make a move?
💥 Plus: We ask the big question — If Kelly keeps producing, is Miguel Amaya now expendable?
Drop your takes in the comments ⬇️
Would YOU trade Amaya, keep him, or look for another catcher this winter?
🎧 Subscribe to Chicago Cubs Central for all things Cubs — from Wrigley rumors to roster breakdowns, we’ve got the North Side covered every week!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsCentral #GoCubsGo #MiguelAmaya #CarsonKelly #MLBNews #CubsBaseball #CubsPodcast #WrigleyField
The Cubs are stacking hardware AND scouting big names — and we’ve got all the inside talk right here!
🔥 Michael King Declines His Option!
Could the Chicago Cubs make a move for the former Padres ace? We break down his 2025 stats (3.44 ERA, 1.20 WHIP, 9.8 K/9), his 2026 contract projections, and why he might be a perfect fit in Wrigley’s rotation.
🥇 DEFENSIVE DOMINANCE IN CHICAGO!
Pete Crow-Armstrong, Ian Happ, and Nico Hoerner all bring home Gold Gloves, showing the Cubs’ defense is elite.
PCA: +24 OAA — tied for MLB’s best!
Happ: 4 straight Gold Gloves, 1 error all year!
Hoerner: +17 DRS, proving he’s the backbone at second!
But here’s the question... 👀 Should there have been even MORE Gold Gloves on this team? We break it down and debate who got snubbed.
📊 Plus:
2026 Cubs roster projections
Free-agent fits & what a King deal could look like
Why Chicago might be one arm away from true contention
💬 Sound off in the comments:
Would you sign Michael King? And who else deserved a Gold Glove?
🎧 Hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and stay locked in to Chicago Cubs Central — where we break down every pitch, every play, and every possibility.
#ChicagoCubs #CubsCentral #GoCubsGo #MichaelKing #WrigleyField #GoldGlove #PCA #IanHapp #NicoHoerner #MLBNews #CubsPodcast
The Chicago Cubs tried FOUR different closers in 2025… and none of them stuck. 👀 Now, with 2026 approaching fast, the biggest question in Wrigleyville is simple:
👉 Who should take over the 9th inning?
In today’s episode, Mike breaks down every option on the table:
✅ Is Daniel Palencia ready to claim the role after a breakout year?
✅ Could Brad Keller or Porter Hodge be internal solutions?
✅ Or should the Cubs spend BIG on a proven closer like Edwin Díaz or Robert Suárez in free agency?
We take a deep dive into recent performances, bullpen issues, and each pitcher's ability to deliver when it matters most. Then it’s YOUR turn — Cubs fans sound off:
⚡️ Who do YOU trust with the final three outs?
Palencia? Keller? Hodge? Or a free-agent star?
Drop your answer in the comments and LET’S TALK CLOSERS! 💬👇
🚨 Chicago Cubs Central — Offseason ALERT! 🚨
The Cubs are rumored to be eyeing elite Japanese starting pitcher Tatsuya Imai — and today we break down why he could become Chicago’s next rotation star! 🇯🇵🔥
✅ We break down his dominant 2025 NPB stats
✅ His pitch mix & velocity (FAST!)
✅ How he fits next to Justin Steele & the Cubs rotation
✅ His age & risk coming to MLB
✅ And most importantly… 💰
👉 How much should the Cubs offer to land him?
👉 Would YOU give him 5 years? 6 years? Over $100M?
Imai throws GAS, has nasty swing-and-miss stuff, and could be the ace we’ve been waiting for. But with big-market teams also hunting pitching…will Chicago step up and PAY?
👇 Cubs fans! Drop your vote in the comments:
Would you sign Tatsuya Imai?
A) Absolutely — Bring him to Wrigley!
B) Only if the price is right
C) Pass — focus on other arms
If you love Cubs content — LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE ✅ & TURN ON 🔔 NOTIFICATIONS so you never miss a breakdown!
#GoCubsGo ⚪🔵
Nico Hoerner just delivered a HUGE 2025 season for the Chicago Cubs — but with a contract year coming in 2026, should the Cubs think about trading him while his value is at its PEAK? 👀
In today’s episode of Chicago Cubs Central, we break down:
✅ Nico Hoerner’s full 2025 stats 📊
✅ How his 2025 compares to past seasons
✅ What kind of contract he could demand next
✅ The pros & cons of trading him now
✅ How a potential deal could reshape the Cubs future
Is Nico a CORE PIECE or a PRIME TRADE CHIP? YOU decide!
👇 COMMENT BELOW 👇
Should the Cubs KEEP or TRADE Nico Hoerner?
💬 Join the conversation — Cubs fans everywhere need to weigh in!
🔥 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT & SUBSCRIBE for more Cubs news, trade rumors, and offseason breakdowns!
#ChicagoCubs #NicoHoerner #CubsNews #MLBTradeRumors #GoCubsGo #CubsCentral #CubsOffseason #KeepOrTrade #WrigleyField #MLB2025
In this episode of Chicago Cubs Central, Mike Jones dives into the breakout season of Michael Busch for Chicago. After his 2024 rookie campaign, Busch stepped up big time in 2025 — but now the question is: What’s next for the Cubs’ rising slugger?
📊 Segments include:
A look back at Busch’s 2024 stats (.248 AVG, 21 HR) and what rookie-growing-pains still showed.
A full breakdown of his 2025 surge: .261 AVG, 34 HR, 90 RBIs, with elite hard-hit and barrel rates.
Analysis of how Busch fits into the Cubs’ core alongside Tucker, Suzuki, and more — and whether he’s locked in for the long haul.
What Busch needs to prove in 2026 to become a true franchise cornerstone.
💬 We Want to Hear From YOU:
Do you believe Michael Busch is the guy for the next decade in Chicago? Drop your thoughts below on his future role and what stat would convince you he’s locked in!
📢 Don’t forget to hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and turn on notifications for more Cubs updates and deep dives here on Chicago Cubs Central!
#ChicagoCubs #MichaelBusch #CubsBaseball #GoCubsGo #MLB2025 #CubsNation #CubsCarGo #FutureStar #CubsHighlights #CubsFuture
The season is over and NOW the pressure is on! Jed Hoyer, Craig Counsell, and Carter Hawkins have some HUGE choices to make as the Chicago Cubs enter a defining offseason. ⚾🔥
In today’s episode, Mike breaks down every major Cubs free agent — including Kyle Tucker, Brad Keller, Caleb Thielbar, Taylor Rogers, Michael Soroka, and Ryan Brasier — and dives into the tough question:
👉 Who deserves to stay on the North Side, and who should the Cubs let walk?
We cover ✅
✅ Which players fit the future championship window
✅ Why the bullpen could look drastically different in 2026
✅ How big-money decisions could shape the Tucker storyline
✅ What these moves reveal about the Cubs’ plan moving forward
This offseason could change EVERYTHING for the Cubs — and fans deserve answers. 👀
💬 Sound off in the comments:
Which free agent would YOU keep and why? Should the Cubs spend big… or look ahead to the youth movement?
If you love Cubs baseball — smash that LIKE button, SUBSCRIBE, and stay locked in right here on Chicago Cubs Central for nonstop offseason coverage! 💙🐻⬇️
#Cubs #ChicagoCubs #CubsNews #MLBOffseason #KyleTucker #JedHoyer #CraigCounsell #FlyTheW #GoCubsGo
In today’s episode, Mike dives into a HUGE pitching target the Cubs could go after this offseason — Dylan Cease! 👀⚾️
We break down his 2025 performance with the Padres, including his elite strikeout numbers, contract situation, and why the Cubs are one of the most intriguing landing spots for the former Cubs prospect. Could a reunion finally happen at Wrigley Field? 👀🐻
💰 What kind of contract should the Cubs offer?
Would you give Cease a long-term deal worth over $100M?
Or roll the dice on a shorter, “prove-it” contract?
We want YOUR take! ⬇️
Plus — how does Cease fit into a future Cubs rotation?
Do the Cubs need a frontline strikeout machine to compete with the Dodgers, Braves & Brewers? 🤔💭
📌 Topics in this episode:
✅ Dylan Cease 2025 stats & performance
✅ How he fits Chicago’s pitching needs
✅ Pros & cons of signing him
✅ Best contract structure for the Cubs
✅ Fan debate: Pay up or pass?
💬 DROP YOUR COMMENTS:
Would YOU sign Dylan Cease? If yes — how many years $$ would you offer?
📣 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & hit the 🔔 so you never miss an update from Cubs Central — your home for nonstop Cubs talk all year long!
Go Cubs Go! 💙🐻⚾️
#ChicagoCubs #CubsCentral #DylanCease #MLBNews #CubsRumors #GoCubsGo #MLBFreeAgency #WrigleyField #PitchingTargets #CubsNation
🎙️ Cubs Big Moves & Rookie Spotlight! | Cubs Central
In this power-packed episode, Mike dives into two major storylines shaking up the Cubs’ future:
🔹 Trade Radar Hot! The Cubs have emerged as potential suitors for ace Shane Bieber — the World Series-playing pitcher with a 2025 stat line of 4-2, 3.57 ERA, 37 Ks, 1.02 WHIP. ESPN.com+1 We explore how Bieber could fit Chicago’s rotation, the risk/reward equation, and whether the Cubs should pull the trigger.
🔹 Rookie of the Year Alert! The Cubs’ own Cade Horton is riding high with a 2025 stat line of 11-4, 2.67 ERA, 97 Ks. ESPN.com+1 Meanwhile, Drake Baldwin of the Braves is making waves with .274 AVG, 19 HR, 80 RBIs, .810 OPS. ESPN.com+1 Can Horton beat out Baldwin for the NL Rookie of the Year? We break it down.
From blockbuster trade talk to rookie races, this episode covers it all. Roll up and stay tuned!
#ChicagoCubs #CubsRumors #ShaneBieber #CubsTrade #CadeHorton #RookieOfTheYear #DrakeBaldwin #MLB2025 #CubsNation #GoCubsGo #BaseballTalk