Brett, Sahadev and Patrick react to the Cubs shocking move to hire Craig Counsell and let David Ross go. Was it the right move? Does it change expectations for 2024? Plus, Craig Breslow is heading to Boston to run the Red Sox baseball operations. What does that mean for Cubs player development and the future of Jed Hoyer's front office? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jed Hoyer held his end of season media session this week. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick share their thoughts on the hour-long chat. What are the chances that the team really tries to bring back Cody Bellinger? Will David Ross enter 2024 on the hot seat? What will be the club's overall plan to get better for next season. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs let a promising season slip away in the final weeks and miss out on the postseason. Brett, Patrick and Sahadev look back on the roller coaster ride of the 2023 season. What positives can be taken from it heading into the offseason and 2024? Where does this collapse fit into the Cubs history of disappointing finishes? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Check out our sponsors: -If a comprehensive solution is what you need from yoursupplement routine, then try AG1 and get a FREE 1-yearsupply of Vitamin D AND 5 free AG1 Travel Packs with your first purchase. Go to drinkAG1.com/MLBSSB. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs will head to Milwaukee to finish the regular season with their postseason hopes very much in doubt. Back to back gut-wrenching losses in Atlanta have the Northsiders tied with the Marlins for the final Wild Card spot and they would lose the tiebreaker. Brett, Patrick and Sahadev get into what has gone wrong and what could happen over the final four days of the season. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With one week left in the regular season, the Cubs are sitting in the final Wild Card spot after sweeping the Rockies to finish out their home schedule. If the Cubs win 5 of 6 this week and miss the postseason, how will you view the season? How will Marcus Stroman's return impact the team down the stretch and what does Javier Assad bring to the bullpen? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the Cubs try to hang on to a Wild Card spot, Brett, Patrick and Sahadev get into the good and the bad this week. Cody Bellinger is swinging the bat well and Alexander Canario finally has a big moment. On the other hand, Justin Steele has struggled in back to back starts. The guys debate how concerned we should be about Steele's cutter. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Patrick and Sahadev look back on the Cubs trip to Arizona and five straight losses and look for hope as the club's postseason hopes start to fade. They also discuss reasons to be hopeful that the Cubs can still turn things around. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Check out our sponsors: If a comprehensive solution is what you need from yoursupplement routine, then try AG1 and get a FREE 1-yearsupply of Vitamin D AND 5 free AG1 Travel Packs with your first purchase. Go to drinkAG1.com/MLBSSB. That’s drinkAG1.com/MLBSSB. Check it out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Patrick and Sahadev dig into the Cubs series loss to the Rockies as the Wild Card race tightens in the National League. They also weigh in on the team's defense right now and how it compares to 2016. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs lost 3 of 4 to the D-backs over the weekend in a series that could have easily gone the other way with a break. But forget that because the Cubs are calling up top prospect Pete Crow-Armstrong to the big leagues. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick break down what to expect from the former first round pick. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs took care of business against the Giants with a Wrigley Field sweep. Led by young pitching, the club is rolling and gaining on the Brewers in the NL Central. Justin Steele, Jordan Wicks, Luke Little and Javier Assad have taken center stage in the pennant race. Young relievers being available in September is a sign of a well run organization. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After series split in Cincinnati, Justin Steele gets the Cubs back on track, shutting down the Giants. The guys talk about Steele's emergence and also get into some September roster management questions facing David Ross and company. Where is Alexander Canario? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs took two of three from the Brewers to close the gap in the NL Central. The guys talk about that and the importance of Kyle Hendricks on this year's roster. They also have a positive update on Marcus Stroman's mysterious injury and more. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs hold the National League's 2nd Wild Card spot, but with the Brewers visiting Wrigley this week there's an opportunity to make a run a the Central crown. Milwaukee comes to town as the hottest team in baseball riding an eight-game win streak. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Patrick and Sahadev discuss another series victory that could have been a sweep. They also push back on the criticism that David Ross is getting from the Cubs fanbase arguing that he's doing his best to keep a taxed bullpen fresh for the home stretch of the season. That leads to an overall discussion on the club's pitching fatigue. They wrap things up by talking about Shohei Ohtani's UCL injury and what it means for his upcoming free agency and how it relates to the Cubs chances of a one-year deal. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs prepare for life without Marcus Stroman. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick weigh in on the situation and try to fill in the gaps of what happened. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs were about to drop another frustrating game to the White Sox. And then Michael Fulmer put out a fire. And then Nick Madrigal hit a pinch-hit homer. And then Cody Bellinger doubled and Dansby Swanson walked. And then Christopher Morel walked to the plate... Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney discuss the Cubs' exhilarating 4-3 win over the White Sox on this episode of Onto Waveland. They also get into Marcus Stroman's rib injury and more. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs rebounded from a bad series against the Mets by taking two of three from the Blue Jays in Toronto over the weekend. The schedule over the next two weeks is quite favorable, and then they get a golden opportunity with a three-game series against the Brewers at Wrigley to wrap up the month. In other words, now's the time for the Cubs to move. Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney discuss that and more on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett and Sahadev look back on a disappointing Mets series and look ahead to a trip across the border for an interleague matchup with the Blue Jays. The guys explain some of the bullpen decisions that were criticized against New York. They also get you ready for the upcoming series in Toronto and how the Cubs can bounce back quickly against a probably playoff team. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett and Sahadev look back on the weekend series win over the Braves at Wrigley. What can we take from it? What have been the key's to the club's offensive surge over the last few weeks. The guys also discuss concerns after a poor outing against the Mets in New York Monday night. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Patrick and Sahadev break down the trade deadline and their surprise that the Cubs made the move to reunite with Jeimer Candelario. Did they do enough to really compete for a postseason spot, what to make of Marcus Stroman's hip injury and what do these decisions mean for the club as they head into 2024 and beyond? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs are still hot, winning 8 of their last 9, and have said they will not deal Cody Bellinger before Tuesday's trade deadline. So what will they do? Brett, Patrick and Sahadev prepare you for the final 24 hours of trade season. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs are riding a six game win streak into the trade deadline. Brett, Patrick and Sahadev are ready for Jed and company to buy next week with the team reaching .500 in a wide open National League postseason race. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One week to go until the trade deadline and Brett, Sahadev and Patrick sum up the mood around the Cubs as they head towards a potential sell. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A 2-1 series win against the Nationals is...exactly what the Cubs needed to do to keep this conversation the same? And now, they've got the Cardinals and White Sox on deck. Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney set the table for the weekend on this episode of Onto Waveland Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Selling has become an all-too-familiar July position for the Cubs over these last few seasons. Are they there again? Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney discuss the latest on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Patrick and Sahadev are back to get you ready for the 2nd half of the season. What are the Cubs playing for leading up to the Trade Deadline and then afterwards? They also talk about the Matt Shaw, the club's first round pick in last week's MLB Draft. The guys also look back on Jameson Taillon's win in The Bronx and what it means going forward. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Patrick and Sahadev all agree that the Cubs are better than their record coming off a series split against the Brewers. But what does that mean heading towards the All-Star Break with the trade deadline looming? Will potential high value of Marcus Stroman and Cody Bellinger lead the club to sell? The guys also discuss the Cubs extremely bad record in close games and how that factors into their decisions between now and August 1st. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs have lost 3 straight since Trey Mancini's key error in London, but let's not blame Trey for the slump. Sahadev shares his concerns over the starting rotation, from Taillon to Hendricks, especially with Marcus Stroman out. The guys also discuss how the recent skid will impact the team's decision to buy, sell or hold at the trade deadline. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Check out our sponsors... -Go to omahasteaks.com and type WAVE into the search bar and order the Gourmet Grill Pack today! -Upgrade your closet with Rhone and use WAVE to save 20% at https://www.rhone.com/wave Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett opens the pod with a rant regarding the Cubs use of Trey Mancini at first base. The importance of picking up Mancini after the loss and does this club have the intangibles to to it? Where do the Cubs turn to if Marcus Stroman needs to go on the IL with his blister? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Check out our sponsors: Upgrade your closet with Rhone and use WAVE to save 20% at https://www.rhone.com/wave Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the Cubs pack their bags for London, Brett, Patrick and Sahadev put the club's recent hot streak into perspective. Are they buyers or holders? Is this series against the Cardinals in a foreign country coming at the worst possible time? Are their benefits to the extra time off and travel? Could a 2-game sweep spark the Cubs into real playoff contender status? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Check out our sponsors: -Head to rhone.com/wave and use promo code WAVE to save 20% off your entire order -Head to factormeals.com/wave50 and use code WAVE50 to get 50% off your first box Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the Cubs turning things around on the field, a decision to sell will frustrate the fanbase. Buying may not be the answer either. Is this the rare case when holding at the trade deadline is the right answer? Brett and Patrick also discuss what happened behind the scenes to spark the turn around and the bullpen which may be turning a corner. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Check out our sponsors: -Head to rhone.com/wave and use promo code WAVE to save 20% off your entire order -Head to factormeals.com/wave50 and use code WAVE50 to get 50% off your first box Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs took two of three from Giants and have a shot to [GASP] sweep the Pirates. Marcus Stroman is on the mound after General Manager Jed Hoyer responded to Stroman's tweet about a contract extension. Brett and Patrick also talk about Cody Bellinger and the possibility that he could change positions and re-sign with the Cubs. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs took two of three from the Giants on the road this weekend. Plenty to be happy about with that, but Brett reminds us that the club is now 1 for 7 in potential series sweeping games and the one was against the lowly Athletics. Brett and Sahadev also break down the weekend's starting pitching, mostly good and a little bad. They get into Marcus Stroman's future in Chicago which is becoming a national debate. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Check out our sponsors... For a limited time when you go to omahasteaks.com and enter the code WAVE into the search bar you’ll be able to order the Dad’s Favorite Gift package for JUST $99.99. PLUS you will get 8 FREE Omaha Steaks Burgers with your order! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Patrick and Sahadev collectively reach the same conclusion, that the Cubs are headed for sell off season as they struggle on the West coast. The guys also discuss David Ross' lack of confidence in the Cubs bullpen and how it's impacting his in-game thought process and they look across the division to Cincinnati and wonder how the Reds jumped ahead of the Cubs rebuild. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs take 2 of the first 3 games in San Diego including another gem from Marcus Stroman who is pitching the best baseball of his career. Has he been the Cubs' MVP so far this season? Jameson Taillon also made his best start of the season on Friday. Is that a sign of things to come? The guys also discuss Cody Bellinger and how much he's been missed offensively and defensively while on the IL. Is there a path to Bellinger staying in Chicago next season? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Despite a series win over the Rays, Brett can't get past the missed opportunities in Wednesday's one-run late loss. They talk about how these missed opportunities can hurt the club later in the season despite the overall mediocrity of the NL Central. The guys discuss what can fans be frustrated with David Ross about and what they should't be. They also talk about Justin Steele's potential injury. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marcus Stroman took a no-hitter into the 7th inning on Sunday to snap the Cubs 4-game losing streak with a 1-0 win over the Rays. Unfortunately that win comes after a sweep at home against the Reds. How much of the blame for this season's struggles should fall on David Ross? Jed Hoyer? What does the club need to accomplish on the upcoming West Coast trip to still have a chance at contention? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Led by Christopher Morel's power surge, the Cubs have taken the first two games from the Mets in a key early series at Wrigley. Did the club wait too long to promote the prospect or did he need the time in the minors to get his season off to a great start? Going deeper, has the Cubs self evaluation failed this season, looking at Morel's hot start along with bullpen questions? The guys also discuss Kyle Hendricks as he gets closer to his return from a shoulder injury. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Check out our sponsors: -Head to FACTORMEALS.com/wave50 and use code wave50 to get 50% off your first box. That’s code wave50 at FACTORMEALS.com/wave50 to get 50% off your first box. -Order today and get $30 off with Promo Code WAVE. And every purchase is backed by their unconditional, money-back guarantee. Minimum order may be required. See site for details. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After the Cubs 2-7 road trip, Brett, Sahadev and Patrick try to figure out what went wrong. Did it start on the previous trip? Would things be better if Christopher Morel started the season in the Majors? Should more work have gone into the bullpen? Is David Ross' seat heating up? How deep do the flaws run? The guys discuss all of those questions and more on this episode. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett sits this one out and Sahadev and Patrick regroup after a tough Cubs loss in Houston, the club's 5th straight loss. They put the losing streak in recent historic perspective. The guys also discuss the problems that Keegan Thompson's lack of availability and effectiveness are causing the team. Are changes coming to the Cubs bullpen before they open the weekend series in Philadelphia? Finally, is the club in danger of becoming a seller at the trade deadline. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Check out our sponsors: Athletic Greens is going to give you a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase. All you have to do is visit athleticgreens.com/MLBSSB Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Outscored 27-4 by the Twins in a pair of losses over the weekend, what are we to make of this Cubs team? Brett and Patrick try to figure that out. Will the Astros be the next team for the Cubs to help get on track after a shaky start? They also talk about Kyle Hendricks and what fans should expect as he makes his way back. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Check out our sponsor: Athletic Greens is going to give you a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase. All you have to do is visit athleticgreens.com/MLBSSB Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're going to drop two out of three, it's always better to win the third game. Especially heading into an off day. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss a tough week of baseball but take solace in the Cardinals having a bad pitching staff. The guys also share their appreciation for Willson Contreras embracing the villain role with the Cards. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cardinals are a mess and they're moving Willson Contreras to Designated Hitter as they visit Wrigley Field for the first time in 2023. It should be a wild week and Brett, Patrick and Sahadev get you ready. They'll also look back on the club's series win over the Marlins. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett and Sahadev recorded this episode hours before Matt Mervis' promotion to the big leagues. That doesn't take away from Brett's opening rant on the state of the club's DH position and failures offensively against the Nationals this week. Can the Cubs right the ship offensively and snap out of their recent slide? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yes, the Cubs lost three one-run games to the Marlins to finish April. But, they still finished the month with a 14-13 record including some big wins along the way. Brett, Patrick and Sahadev take a look back at the weekend and a bigger picture view of the season's first month. A month that easily could have resulted in 17 or 18 wins. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett and Sahadev battle through a major coffee spill to bring you this episode of Onto Waveland. They dive into the club's series win over the Cubs and some impressive pitching performances. Justin Steele continues to look like a top starter and Hayden Wesneski took a big step forward. That and much more on a caffeinated edition. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yes, the Cubs lost three of four to the Dodgers at Wrigley, but positives can be taken from the series. The Cubs have beaten Julio Urías twice in April which is an accomplishment. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss that but also explain why we may be starting to see some cracks in the Cubs bullpen and why the next few weeks will tell us a lot about how the 2023 season could play out. Also, can Michael Fulmer be turned around after a tough stretch? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While Sahadev searches for his luggage, Brett and Patrick catch you up on the Cubs. What does the Cubs 5-1 road trip mean for the team's confidence and how does it set the club up for staying in contention into the summer? Also, are fans starting to jump back on the bandwagon early in the season? The guys also look ahead to the Dodgers visit to Wrigley for a 4-game set and ponder whether Jed would consider trading for Shohei Ohtani in July. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs took two of three from the Dodgers in Los Angeles this weekend. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss how much we should take from the series. The starting pitching continues to be strong. Is Patrick Wisdom a different, better player or is this just a hot streak? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After famously failing to sign core players to extensions in the near past, the Cubs lock up Ian Happ on a 3-year, $61 million deal. The move comes after the Club signed Nico Hoerner to a 3-year deal during Spring Training. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss the timing of the deal and what these deals mean for the organization moving forward? They also get into the great vibes around the team after two weeks of baseball. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marcus Stroman and Justin Steele continued to shine in a series win over the Rangers at Wrigley but the Cubs failed to complete the sweep on Sunday because of some questionable defense. How much better will this club be when Seiya Suzuki returns and when will he return from rehab? What will that mean for the rest of the roster? Finally, will the Cubs do enough to consistently win close games this season. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs split a pair of games in Cincinnati getting a lift from their new look offense and veteran bats. Brett, Patrick and Sahadev question David Ross' decision to have Patrick Wisdom bunt in a key spot but also appreciate the fact that Ross is willing to analyze his own decisions after the fact, something that didn't happen under certain past managers. Plus, what is going on in St. Louis with Oli Marmol and Tyler O'Neill? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs got a pair of great starts, great performances from Dansby Swanson and dropped two of three. Brett, Patrick and Sahadev look back on the opening series loss to the Brewers and discuss what we can take from it. -The importance of maximizing a small number of home runs -How will club react to high walk totals -Figuring out the best uses of the bullpen arms -How will the Iowa Cubs roster impact the big club as the season progresses Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Patrick and Sahadev rejoice in the opening of a new baseball season. From the new beer bats to the actual product on the field, the guys are breaking it all down. They discuss how an improved defense is going to keep the team in games and present more opportunities for wins. They also talk about Marcus Stroman's impressive start and his new arsenal, the bullpen lining up and a smaller than expected crowd for Opening Day at Wrigley. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Opening Day is one week away! Brett, Sahadev and Patrick look at some Spring Training numbers that may be cause for concern and then justify not worrying about them. Plus, Seiya Suzuki could return early from his oblique injury. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Cubs Spring Training rolls on, Brett and Patrick check in on the WBC. Will the Edwin Diaz injury make more people question the WBC? Plus, Javier Assad looks dominant with a high 90s fastball against Team USA for Mexico. How will he factor into the Cubs pitching staff. The guys also try to answer some other questions around the Cubs bullpen as Opening Day approaches. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Patrick and Sahadev continue to take in all the "meaningless" baseball this spring. How much can we take from Cody Bellinger's good at-bats? Does Hayden Wesneski have the inside track on the fifth starter job? The guys also evaluate how they think the Cubs are evaluating their young players. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a week of Spring Training games in the books, the guys react to the rule changes and how they've impacted games so far. They also discuss Seiya Suzuki's injury and what the Cubs will do about right field while he's out and some impressive pitching performances early on from the Cubs young arms. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs open up Cactus League play this weekend and Brett, Patrick and Sahadev are ready for it. On this episode of Onto Waveland, they dive into what you should be ready to overreact to once the games begin. They also get into the club's increased pitching depth, and the rise of the sweeper pitch. They guys finish up by discussing all of the third base options in camp. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

And We're back! Sahadev is in Arizona with the Cubs and he joins Brett and Patrick as Pitchers and Catcher's report to Mesa. They discuss the possibility of the club extending Nico Hoerner and Ian Happ this spring. Plus, favorite Spring Training storylines from third base playing time to Jameson Taillon's new slider. Finally, the guys dive into the biggest question of all... can the Cubs content in 2023? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Patrick and Sahadev are back after a month away to recap the return of Cubs Convention! They go on to breakdown the clubs offseason so far. How much has the team upgraded with the additions of Dansby Swanson, Cody Bellinger, Trey Mancini, Eric Hosmer, Jameson Taillon and more. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Patrick and Sahadev are in sunny San Diego for the Winter Meetings. Brett is stuck in the frigid midwest. But the Hot Stove is heading up as the Cubs sign Cody Bellinger to a 1-year, $17.5 million. The guys discuss that and wonder if the club could still ink one of the big shortstops on the market. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the Postseason rolls on in Major League Baseball, the Cubs look to the offseason with Jed Hoyer holding his state of the franchise news conference. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick react to Hoyer and reflect on a very exciting Wild Card round. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs stay red hot entering the final series of the season in Cincinnati riding a 7-game win streak. Brett and Patrick discuss what was probably Willson Contreras' final series at Wrigley Field as a Cub. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs are spoiling the Phillies postseason push this week. Brett and Sahadev discuss the positive vibes around Wrigley after Wednesday's Hayden Wesneski start. Also, Cubs Convention is back for the first time since before the pandemic. What does that mean for the offseason. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Sahadev and Patrick start by discussing the Cubs winning second half and how it impacts the club's draft position. Also, how should the front office be viewing this stretch as they enter the offseason. The guys also discuss the players who have been responsible for the improved product and who the organization can depend on in the future. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett and Sahadev celebrate the champion Cubs, the South Bend Cubs of the Midwest league. Are wins and losses an indicator of prospect talent for future big league use? The return of Keegan Thompson. And the need for the Cubs to go out and get starting pitching.  Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Patrick and Sahadev take a moment to reflect on the Cubs being officially eliminated from postseason contention. Then they continue to look ahead to the future and how the current roster will play in 2023. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett and Patrick reflect on the Cubs sweep of the Mets! They go on to discuss how the positive signs from the second half of the season will translate into player evaluation in the offseason. Does it show that it's time to spend heading into 2023? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the Cubs play out the season, Brett, Sahadev and Patrick look for answers to some questions the club will face in the offseason. Will Drew Smiley be back with the team in 2023? What did Tom Ricketts comments to the media this week mean for the organization moving forward? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week the Cubs had their lowest single game attendance mark since the 2013 season. Is the front office taking note? Brett, Patrick and Sahadev talk about that and also Hayden Wesneski's brilliant debut. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett and Patrick take a look back at a rough weekend in St. Louis and reframe the final month of the season and share their thoughts on the most important things to watch in September. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the Cubs finish off a .500 month, Brett, Patrick and Sahadev discuss what it means. Is this the first step towards being competitive again or is it a fluke? Are there comparisons to where the team is now and where they were back in 2014? The guys also discuss how important the team's starting pitching has been over this recent stretch.   Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Patrick and Sahadev look ahead to the Blue Jays series. Pitching prospects Jeremiah Estrada and Brendon Little will get a look in Canada as Justin Steele and Adrian Sampson go on restricted list. Also, minor leaguers may be moving towards union representation. What will that mean for teams in the future? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How close are the Cubs to contending in the NL Central next season? Following the Cardinals' series, Brett, Patrick and Sahadev discuss the state of the organization and how aggressive they believe the front office will be this offseason. Plus, should the team extend Nico Hoerner? The guys share their thoughts on the shortstop’s future. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs have won five of six heading into a five game series with the Cardinals this week and Patrick and Sahadev are feeling some good vibes around this team. They dive into some of the reasons Cubs fans should be optimistic about where this club is heading. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett and Sahadev take a break from the big league club to focus on the farm system and Cubs prospects. How does the Cubs system compare to other teams in the Nationals League Central? Beyond Pete Crow-Armstrong, does the team have top 100 caliber prospects on the way? They'll discuss those questions and more! Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett and Sahadev dive into Franmil Reyes' potential as a power bat. Also, Patrick Wisdom gets his shot to prove his value at first base. Could he be a trade piece in the offseason? Those topics and more! Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Patrick and Sahadev reflect on one of the more memorable nights of the Cubs 2022 season, a win over the Reds on the "Field of Dreams" in Iowa. They talk about the positives and a few negatives from the game. Then they react to the news that Jason Heyward has played his final game as a Cub. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the signing deadline in the rearview mirror, Brett, Sahadev and Patrick take a closer look at the Cubs player development department. How is the organization doing coaching up the players within the organization? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Sahadev and Patrick dive into an uneventful trade deadline for the Cubs. They explain why Willson Contreras and Ian Happ are still Cubs and spin it forward to the future of the franchise. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With 24 hours to go before MLB's trade deadline, Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss how things are going to play out with Willson Contreras, Ian Happ and more. Also, is there anything worse than the Cardinals getting Juan Soto? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

By time you listen to this podcast, Willson Contreras might be a former Cub. The same could be true for Ian Happ. Brett and Sahadev discuss another trade deadline of significant change for the Cubs on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey, if you're going to wait until July to notch your first sweep of the season, you might as well do it in a way that A) showcases your best trade chips, and B) includes big performances from key pieces of the future. So, with that in mind...well done, Cubs. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yup, that pretty much sums up the last week of Cubs baseball, as well as the weeks to come. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick dig in on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Taylor and Patrick Mooney discuss the Cubs day one picks in the 2022 draft and put a bow on the first half on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey, did you guys hear that Onto Waveland's very own Brett Taylor is the second-most-popular person in the Chicago sports Twitter world?!? It's true! You'd be crazy not to listen to this episode of Onto Waveland, where Brett and Patrick look ahead to the final weekend of the first half. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey, it's mid-July, the time of year when MLB teams that are obvious sellers, such as the Cubs, get to have a little fun. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss the draft and the trade deadline on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christopher Morel, Patrick Wisdom, Nico Hoerner, these guys are all among a group of players proving themselves useful for the Cubs of the future. And with some of those guys being moveable on the diamond, Morel chief among them, we're seeing a flexible roster start to come into focus. Brett and Sahadev discuss that on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Keegan Thompson and Justin Steele have proved in the first half of this season that they can be meaningful contributors to the next competitive Cubs team. So when do those rollover funds come into play? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A fun discussion in the middle of an uncompetitive season: Might Kyle Hendricks want to be traded? And what does his presence do for the Cubs this season and beyond? The guys get into that, and plenty more, on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cardinals have spent nearly the entirety of the last two decades as, at worst, a playoff contender and, at best, a World Series Champion. How do they sustain the long-term success that eludes the Cubs, despite nowhere near the latter's financial advantages? Sahadev and Patrick dig into that, and more, on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kyle Hendricks entered this season as the de facto staff ace for the Cubs. Next year, they likely won't be able to count on him as anything more than a backend rotation filler. What effects will that have the rest of this season, and into the offseason as the Cubs set out, yet again, to fill their rotation? Brett and Sahadev discuss on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs have spent much of the last week or so losing in embarrassing fashion? On this episode of Onto Waveland, Brett and Patrick ask...does it matter how a bad team loses? They also discuss Caleb Kilian's second start. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As expected, the Cubs DFA'd an outfielder in advance of the team's series against the Yankees in New York. Except it wasn't the outfielder most expected them to let go. Oh, and Marcus Stroman and Wade Miley went on the IL. Oh yeah, they also got swept, with the Yankees outscoring them 28-5 in the process. But maybe they got to eat at some great NYC restaurants? Brett and Patrick get into all that, not including the restaurants, on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Did you hear?! Willson Contreras signed a new contract with the Cubs! Wait...oh, wait. It's just to avoid arbitration. Nevertheless! Also, Patrick Wisdom is proving himself this year. Brett and Patrick dig into it all on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We've known the 30,000-foot view for the 2022 Cubs for a while now: not a terrible team, nowhere near good enough to compete. But there are more than a few positives for the future happening right now. Yes, now! Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs are staring at a roster crunch that could define what the team does over the next few weeks. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick wade into the details on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Three prospects made their MLB debuts for the Cubs on Monday, right on the heels of two doing so earlier in the month. There's a good chance not one is a superstar, but many of them could be key players on the next Cubs playoff contender. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss that and more on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey, Nico and Willy are back. That's fun! Brett and Sahadev discuss all the latest developments around the Cubs including Nico Hoerner, locked-in starting shortstop, on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You know in Gladiator when Joaquin Phoenix as Commodus holds his thumb to the side before indicating thumbs up or thumbs down? We're kinda stuck at that spot on a lot of Cubs position players at the moment. Brett and Sahadev explain on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

But seriously, folks, wasn't it nice to see a hitter who likely isn't a superstar but could still be a long-term contributor for the Cubs come up and contribute immediately? The team will need more of that if they're going to stay away from another bridge year in 2023. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick get into all that on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're about six weeks into the 2022 MLB season, and Willson Contreras is far and away the most productive catcher in the league. Will the Cubs extend him? Will he get traded? And what does the front office's decision-making regarding its star catcher tell us about the team now and in the immediate future? The guys break it down on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The trio leaps into the show by discussing the discourse surrounding the deadened balls. Are random Twitter stats more anecdotal and don't paint a full picture? Chicago has experienced its fair share of bumps and bruises this season, both figurative and literally. Could the Cubs tap prospects for their Majors' debut to fill the shoes of those injured, and is there harm in doing so? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s officially sinking in, 2022 is going to be a long season on the North Side. Brett, Sahadev & Patrick dig into the Cubs’ weekend dismantling courtesy of the Dodgers, how the organization’s missteps have led to their current state, the importance of turning money into wins by 2023, and more.  Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After dropping two games to the Sox to start the week, the Cubs will have to wait until at least 2023 to get their hands on the Crosstown Cup. If you can recover from that, Cubs fans, you should listen to the latest episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

April was a month of learning about the Cubs, potentially with a heaping side of confirmation that does not bode well for the team's competitiveness the rest of the way. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick dig into that on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs' bullpen is really good again. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick give everyone involved a whole bunch of kudos on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When, if ever, will the Cubs move on from Jason Heyward this season? It's a question the team may have to answer very soon, as the guys detail on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marcus Stroman and Patrick Wisdom are teaching us once again about the danger of reading too much into early season results. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss that, as well as junk in Keegan Thompson's trunk, on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So is the Cubs offense legitimately good? It certainly has been over the first nine games of the season. That's the jumping-off point for the discussion on this episode of Onto Waveland. The guys also get into what they'll be watching when the Cubs take on the Rays and Pirates this week, moves in the organization, and old NBA posters. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss a disappointing couple of days in Pittsburgh and the weekend ahead in Colorado on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs opened the season by taking two of three from the Brewers, handling themselves quite well against Corbin Burnes, Brandon Woodruff and Freddy Peralta. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss Kyle Hendricks' Opening Day start, initial impressions of Seiya Suzuki, and more on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey, Opening Day is here! What does success look like for the 2022 Cubs? What are we excited to watch this year? Brett, Sahadev and Patrick preview the season on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Willson Contreras is the longest-tenured player in the Cubs organization. Will that tenure extend beyond the 2022 season? Brett Taylor and Patrick Mooney dig into that on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs have been quite active since the end of the lockout, winning the Seiya Suzuki sweepstakes, signing nearly 10 pitchers, and adding a couple of infielders in Andrelton Simmons and Jonathan Villar. Taken together, those moves give us a great indication of not only the Cubs' plans for 2022, but also for the next few seasons to come. Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney break it all down on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The lockout continues but the owners and players actually spoke! Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss that along with the The Athletic's Cubs reader poll results and some prospect talk. The content you need to get through another locked out week of winter.   Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We can say this for the Cubs thus far this offseason: They pretty much made the most of the time afforded them before the lockout. Marcus Stroman grabbed the headlines, with good reason, but the Cubs made strong supporting moves by bringing in Wade Miley. Yan Gomes and Clint Frazier, as well. On this episode of Onto Waveland, the guys discuss the Stroman and Gomes moves, and what they could signal for the Cubs the rest of the offseason. You know, once the owners see fit to end the lockout and all that. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sahadev and Patrick are fresh back from California, where last week's MLB GM meetings took place. They're joined by Brett for a new episode of Onto Waveland, where the guys check in on, you guessed it, the GM meetings. What did Sahadev and Patrick learn and observe while they were out there, and where do the Cubs likely go at this point in the offseason? In addition to the micro plans for the Cubs, the guys take a macro look at the sport, with the December 1 expiration of the collective bargaining agreement looming over everything. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs have made plenty of front office news this offseason, and most of it has focused, understandably, on new GM Carter Hawkins. One long-time front office members left the team, however, while another transitioned into an advisory role. Their absence will be felt across the organization. On this episode of Onto Waveland, Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss the legacies of Randy Bush and Jason McLeod. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New Cubs GM Carter Hawkins had his introductory press conference with Chicago media on Monday. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick get into the weeds of the presser on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs season may be over, but there's still plenty for Brett, Sahadev and Patrick to get into on Onto Waveland. On this episode, the guys discuss the ridiculousness of legislating fandom, the drama in the White Sox-Astros series brought on by former Cub Ryan Tepera, and the Rays falling short after a 100-win season. Then, they dive into Sahadev's and Patrick's Athletic subscriber chat from earlier this week, focusing on the fanbase's ongoing obsession with Nick Castellanos. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jed Hoyer spoke with Chicago media on Thursday, wrapping up the 2020 season and looking to the future. The latter is a whole lot more interesting, as the Cubs prepare for what has to be an active offseason considering all the holes on the roster heading into 2021. Brett and Patrick discuss Hoyer's comments and what they signal for the next few months on this episode of Onto Waveland. The Cubs almost certainly won't be players for the Carlos Correa level of free agents, but could they be dipping into the next tier? Or did Hoyer's comments likely preclude that, as well? And if they did, what does that mean for this team over the next couple seasons? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If someone told Cubs fans before the 2021 season that they'd end the year at 71-91, many, if not most, would have said, "Yeah, I could see that." The way the Cubs got to 71-91, however, was more than a little surprising. They were in first place in the middle of June! They traded three of the most beloved players in franchise history in a 12-hour span! They used an MLB record 69 players! It was not your typical ride to 20 games under .500, even if the ending point made sense. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick look back on the season that was on this episode of Onto Waveland. They also discuss the MLB postseason, making some predictions for what will happen over the next month. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett and Sahadev discuss how the current pieces will fit on the 2022 roster with an active offseason of changes on tap. With an ‘active’ and ‘smart’ approach in free agency, who actually lands with the Cubs this winter? How will the Cubs prioritize position players during the offseason given the holdovers on the roster? How does Nico Hoerner fit into the plans in 2022 and beyond? Brett and Sahadev discuss that, and a lot more, on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs end the season with six of their final nine games coming against the Cardinals. At one point this year, it looked like these games could matter to the Cubs. At another, it looked like they wouldn't mean anything to either team. And now, it's looking like they'll serve as a playoff tuneup for the Cardinals. Does that spark any reflections for the Cubs? Such as...what if they signed Jon Lester instead of Jake Arrieta this offseason? Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss that, and a lot more, on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lost in the shuffle of this off-the-cliff season for this era of Cubs baseball has been what will go down as the worst year of Kyle Hendricks' career. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick dig into that on this episode of Onto Waveland. The guys also discuss Rowan Wick's role for the future, and Brett forces everyone to remember a two-year anniversary no one was particularly interested in reliving. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Would you believe that the Phillies haven't had a winning record in a decade? Even with all the talent they've had in that window, they haven't been above .500 since winning 102 games in 2011. In an alternate universe, the Cubs could be this year where the Phillies are, hanging around the fringes of the playoff race with a talented, but seemingly underperforming, core. Would that be satisfying? Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss on this episode of Onto Waveland. The guys also dig into the uniqueness of Frank Schwindel's breakout. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Giants became the first team to clinch a postseason berth just days after sweeping the Cubs at Wrigley Field in Kris Bryant's return to the only MLB stadium he knew as home until a couple months ago. The timing was poignant because it highlighted a question that might influence the Cubs' offseason: Could the 2022 Cubs make like the 2021 Giants? Brett and Patrick get into that, as well as the idea that the business side of the organization needs the team to be a contender next year, on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A pre-show hot mic caught Sahadev Sharma professing his love for former MVP candidate Ian Happ. With Onto Waveland rocked by scandal, how will Sahadev, Brett Taylor and Patrick Mooney respond? Hey, who says a losing season can't be fun?!? The guys do indeed discuss Happ's recent hot streak, Jason Heyward's role in 2022, and more on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Frank Schwindel the best player in the majors this year? If you embrace some incredibly arbitrary endpoints, you can make a deeply flawed case that he is! In all seriousness, Schwindel has been a major bright spot in what has been a fun run of baseball for the Cubs after the gloom and doom of one month ago. On this episode of Onto Waveland, Brett, Sahadev and Patrick find the joys of a winning streak in an uncompetitive season, highlighted by Schwindel's heroics over the last week and change. They also answer a couple of reader emails. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So, hey, Justin Steele and Adbert Alzolay did a neat little 1-2 dance against the Twins on Wednesday. Did we see the blueprint for what both of them can be going forward? Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss on this episode of Onto Waveland. The guys also take a look at first base for the Cubs in 2022. Is Rookie of the Month Frank Schwindel going to get the chance to be the primary guy over there, assuming Patrick Wisdom is holding down third base? It seems possible, at least right now. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Javy Báez ruffled some feathers in New York after he explained the menaning of the Mets new thumbs down celebration. That aside, it's hard to see him remaining with the Mets next season. So could he find his way back to the Cubs? It certainly seems possible. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss the thumbs down nonsense, a possible reunion between Javy and the Cubs, and the pros and cons of a Báez/Patrick Wisdom left side of the infield on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of the Cubs on-field storylines actually worth following the rest of this season is the performance of the outfielders. In theory, there may not be a 2022 full-timer on the roster. Can Ian Happ salvage his future with the team? Can anyone with a newfound presence after the trade deadline assert himself and take advantage of the playing time he's being afforded? Brett, Sahadev and Patrick break that down on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This offseason could feature the greatest class of free agent shortstops ever...but the Cubs already have Nico Hoerner and Nick Madrigal. So what, right? Right. On this episode of Onto Waveland, Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss why the Cubs absolutely should be players in the middle infield this offseason, no matter who's already on the roster. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Taylor and Patrick Mooney start the show by wishing Jake Arrieta well in his new home in San Diego. Then they dig into the future of the club. The model that led to the 2016 World Series Championship is not going to work this time around. How can the Cubs front office put together a competitive team fast after July's fire sale. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When you renovate your business's century-old place of work, reaping untold financial rewards for yourself in the process, there's really only one thing you can do: build a plaque patting yourself on the back. That's exactly what the Ricketts family will do this week, an exercise in self-congratulation that is equal parts tone deaf and off-putting. Oh, and hey, the Cubs are on a 12-game losing streak. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick dive into the absurdity of it all on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs' post-deadline identity was laid bare in a four-game sweep at the hands of the Brewers, during which they were outscored 37-9. While the poor performance is to be expected given where the roster stands, it should not be accepted as a long-term reality. On this episode of Onto Waveland, Sahadev and Patrick detail how and why this offseason should—and must—be different than the last one during which the franchise was in a similar position. They also discuss the end of Jake Arrieta's Cubs tenure. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When the histories of the post-deadline 2021 Cubs are written, they will not focus on the core-dismantling trades, or wallow in what-could-have-been longints, or traffic in Frank Schwindel jokes (don't hold us to that last one). They will, instead, highlight that August 2021 is when the Cubs became Willson Contreras' team. And if that's the case, then it's reasonable to expect him to get an extension sooner rather than later. Brett and Patrick discuss Contreras' newfound outsize role on this episode of Onto Waveland, and the idea of Miguel Amaya being his backup in 2022. They also get into the White Sox series from last weekend and the potential monetary effects the new CBA could have on the Cubs' spending. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After shipping out the heart and soul of the team that broke the Cubs 108-year World Series drought, the team's front office has presented one clear message: This is not a full rebuild. So if that's the case, the Cubs are going to have to spend some money this winter, right? Brett, Sahadev and Patrick dig into that on this episode of Onto Waveland. They also discuss the freedom that Jed Hoyer should enjoy in free agency with a roster that's more flexible than it has been in almost a decade. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anthony Rizzo is a Yankee. Javier Báez is a Met. Kris Bryant is a Giant. A new era of Cubs baseball has officially begun. On this episode of Onto Waveland, Brett and Patrick reflect on a trade deadline that set a new course forward for the franchise. They consider how the team arrived at this point, the trade returns for each of their former stars, and how the MLB-ready pieces, such as Nick Madrigal, will fit in 2022 and beyond. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Seeing the breakup of the core of players responsible for the best ever era in Cubs baseball isn't a surprise, given where the franchise stands at the 2021 trade deadline. Watching Anthony Rizzo to be the first to go, however, came as a shock to many, if not most, and drove home just how much change could be on the horizon. Rizzo, the face of the turnaround that eventually broke the most famed championship drought in sports, was sacrosanct to many Cubs fans. Now, he's a Yankee, and it's certain that more players fans have come to love over the last decade or so will follow him out the door. Brett and Sahadev discuss that reality, the Rizzo trade, what comes next, and what Cubs fans can look forward to over the next few months on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thrilling end to the Cubs win over the Reds last night. The fun rivalry between the Cubs and the Reds. Entertaining action between Javier Baez and Amir Garrett. Is it time for the Cubs to move on from certain players on the roster?  Brett, Sahadev and Patrick also discuss the trade deadline. How it was logistically necessary for the Cubs to move Andrew Chaffin. The Cubs offense in need of a shake up. And the Cubs maximizing their pitching talent.  Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When David Ross lifted Kris Bryant in the middle of Monday's series opener with the Cardinals, all of Cubs Twitter immediately went on #HugWatch. Bryant left the game with hamstring fatigue, but the fact remains that the trade deadline will dominate the environment around this team for the next week, especially when it comes to Bryant and Craig Kimbrel. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss that dynamic on today's episode of Onto Waveland. They also get into how the timing of this year's MLB amateur draft complicated matters for scouting staffs that are also tasked with priming their teams for the trade deadline, particularly for a team like the Cubs that gutted its scouting staff last year. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's been a long time since there was this little at stake in a Cubs-Cardinals series this late in the season, and it's been noticeable inside Busch Stadium. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss that on this episode of Onto Waveland before moving on to the most pressing Cubs issue of the next 10 days: who gets traded, when does it happen, and what is the return? Namely, the guys focus on the heart of the Cubs core. Kris Bryant is the most likely to go, but could Anthony Rizzo and/or Javier Báez join him? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs open the second half as obvious sellers. Yes, we could see some big names leave Chicago over the next two weeks, but that's not all the second half is about for this team. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick kick off the second half of the season on Onto Waveland in a cheery mood, discussing Brennen Davis winning the Futures Game MVP and other highlights from All-Star Week. They also get into the Cubs 2021 draft class. And yeah, they talk about trades, too. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So...where do we go from here? What's a successful second half look like? How do we look at the Cubs players now that we have to view many of them through the selling lens, at least for the next few weeks? Brett, Sahadev and Patrick get into those questions, and more, on this episode of Onto Waveland. The guys also take a look ahead to this month's MLB Draft. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The fall of the 2021 Cubs came swiftly and with little warning, but there was no missing its arrival. Losers of 10 straight, the Cubs are now in sell mode and facing down the reality that the offensive core that brought the franchise its first World Series in 108 years could finally be broken up. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss the downfall of the 2021 Cubs on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs appeared on their way to winning another getaway day and avoiding a sweep, this one at the hands of the Brewers, by staking Jake Arrieta to a 7-0 lead in the first inning. Many hours and 15 unanswered Brewers runs later, the Cubs had arrived at the low point of their season. The Cubs are six games out of first on July 1. They don't need to start selling now, but what will they have to do between now and the All-Star Break to remain in the hunt and out of the group of sellers? Brett and Sahadev dive in right there on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After starting the trip to Los Angeles with a combined no-hitter, the Cubs dropped three straight to the Dodgers, then lost the series opener to the Brewers in Milwaukee. They're now four games behind the Brewers in the Central, though the remainder of the schedule leading up to the All-Star Break does soften after this trip in Milwaukee. Still, after a sharp drop in the standings in a short amount of time, it's entirely possible that the Cubs may have fallen onto the sell side of the buy/sell divide. Brett and Sahadev get into that, as well as the likelihood that the Cubs will take their trade decisions down to the wire, on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Ross took on the disciplinarian side of his managerial role earlier this week, benching Javy Baez mid-game after the starting shortstop's mental lapse on the basepaths. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick kick off this episode of Onto Waveland discussing Javy's benching and why it was different from situations in which Ross did not bench other players. The guys then take a look at the farce that has been the first week of the new sticky substance rules, and consider what the Cubs will need to do to have a successful weekend in Los Angeles against the Dodgers. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It wasn't a great week for the Cubs, who dropped five of seven games to the Mets and Marlins. And yet, they wake up on Monday still in first place in the NL Central, and they may have discovered a silver lining during the 2-5 week. Could Alec Mills be part of the answer to their rotation woes? Brett, Sahadev and Patrick get into that on this episode of Onto Waveland. They also discuss the backup catcher situation, the dominance of the Tepera-Chafin-Kimbrel trio, the possibility of a small trade, and the team's uncanny ability to salvage the last game of a series. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs have dropped the first three games in their series with the Mets in Queens, exposing some of the issues they've been able to hide over the last few weeks. Namely, the starting pitching is a serious problem, and the offense has fallen back into some bad habits. To be fair, the Cubs remain in first place, and most teams, even the good ones, play worse against better competition. Still, with Pablo Lopez and Trevor Rogers of the Marlins on tap this weekend, and series with Cleveland and the Dodgers ahead, things aren't going to get any easier for the offense any time soon. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick dive into all that and more on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Beautiful weather, first place in the NL Central, and a sweep of the hated Cardinals. Yup, the Cubs couldn't have drawn up a better weekend for Wrigley Field to be open to 100% capacity for the first time since 2019. Brett and Patrick discuss the series sweep by the first-place Cubs on this episode of Onto Waveland. The guys react to Zach Davies' best start in a Cubs uniform, and discuss how shocking it will be when the bullpen eventually falters. They also get into COVID-19 vaccination comments made by Anthony Rizzo and Jason Heyward, and answer some questions from the listeners that have been sitting in our mailbag. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs spent the last weekend in California, and after dropping the first three games of the trip in San Francisco, they return home having gone 3-4 against two of the best teams in the NL. With each passing week, the Cubs keep proving that they are legitimate playoff contenders, and they head into this weekend's series with the Cardinals atop the NL Central. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick break down the West Coast swing on this episode of Onto Waveland. The guys highlight the impressive turnaround, culminating in a win over the Padres and old friend Yu Darvish on Wednesday. They also discuss how the team has forced the front office's hand with respect to the trade deadline by playing better than could have realistically been expected to this point of the season. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs dropped three of four against the Giants, but at least they took the game on getaway day! Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss the weekend series by the Bay, with a focus on a rotation that is starting to put a real strain on an elite bullpen. Plus, more Patrick Wisdom Mania, and a plea for more time for Sergio Alcántara. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs have significantly exceeded expectations to this point of the season, and Jed Hoyer recently intimated that the team would have some flexibility to make in-season moves. Where they stand as the trade deadline draws nearer will depend on how they fare against a brutal schedule in June, but could this team possibly be buyers? Brett, Sahadev and Patrick consider that question on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs wrapped up an 18-9 month of May playing in front of 60% capacity crowds at Wrigley Field! Brett, Patrick and Sahadev discuss the positive vibes at the old ballpark. They also explain why it's not crazy to think that surprising performances from Patrick Wisdom and Kohl Stewart could continue. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs are now 15-6 in their last 21 games, heading into the weekend after a must-have sweep of the Pirates. The Cubs are getting the job done despite having as many players on the IL, this side of the Mets, of any team in the league. Brett and Sahadev discuss the Cubs racking up wins, despite all those injuries, in advance of a very tough stretch of their schedule that kicks off in earnest against the Padres next week. Plus, they also revel in the latest installment of Javy Being Javy: Will Craig's Stolen Soul. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs are 13-6 in May and coming off a series win against the first-place Cardinals in St. Louis. They have the best run differential in the NL Central, and fourth best mark in the entire senior circuit. It's safe to call the first two months of the season a success. With the Cubs approaching Memorial Day just two games out of first in the division, Brett, Sahadev and Patrick consider the way forward on this episode of Onto Waveland. The guys look at what both buying and selling versions of this team could look like, and dive into David Ross' first 100-plus games as a manager. They also discuss the team's surprisingly excellent bullpen. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It took two months for the Cubs and Cardinals to get together this season, but it was worth the wait. The Cubs took two out of three from the NL Central leaders and appear to be legitimate contenders in the division heading into Memorial Day weekend. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick break down the three-game series and what it means for the Cubs in the immediate and long-term future on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Taylor, Patrick Mooney and Sahadev Sharma touch on the Cubs series win over the Tigers and Matt Duffy's popularity and importance on the roster before turning their attention to the return of Jon Lester and Kyle Schwarber to Wrigley Field. They look back on the glory days and remember what it meant when Lester agreed to leave Boston for Chicago. The guys also take advantage of the Cubs off-day and revisit the extra innings runner on second rule. Despite some push back against the rule, the guys are all still loving it. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Taylor, Patrick Mooney and Sahadev Sharma react to three straight losses by the Cubs by asking fans not to overreact. All three games were winnable but the breaks went the other way. The guys also take advantage of the Cubs off-day and revisit the extra innings runner on second rule. Despite some push back against the rule, the guys are all still loving it. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs have won seven of ten after taking two of three from the Pirates. Young pitchers like Adbert Alzolay, Keegan Thompson and Justin Steele are contributing in 2021. Is this the start of a new wave of talented young pitching in the organization. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss that and look ahead to this week's series with the Indians. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Taylor, Patrick Mooney and Sahadev Sharma react to the Cubs surprising sweep of the Dodgers. They dive into the production of Jake Marisnick, Nico Hoerner and Matt Duffy and the challenges that David Ross faces going forward to keep his hot bats in the lineup. Also, this wouldn't be possible if Kris Bryant wasn't willing to move off of third base defensively. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Sahadev and Patrick get you ready for the potentially disastrous series with the Dodgers. Kris Bryant is back performing at an MVP type level, but what does it mean for the Cubs long term with free agency looming. Minor League baseball returns this week so the guys check in on the next wave of Cubs prospects. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Patrick and Sahadev debate whether Anthony Rizzo's pitching performance was all in good fun or a dark moment in a season going off the rails. The guys also take a closer look at what's wrong with Kyle Hendricks and the pitching staff. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After scoring 15-runs in a Friday win, the Cubs bats go cold in a pair of weekend losses. Brett, Sahadev, and Patrick take a closer look at the Brewers series and the call up of Nico Hoerner. The young second baseman impressed at Wrigley. Will he stick in the Majors and what should expectations be for him the rest of the season Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Sahadev, and Patrick take a closer look at the Cubs offensive explosion on Wednesday against the Mets. 16 runs and only one homer is a lot of fun. Can MLB rule changes create more action like that? Then the guys analyze Zach Davies' latest performance and try to figure out if he's close to figuring it out. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Sahadev, and Patrick examine the early struggles of the Cubs’ rotation and discuss how the script following 2016 has gone so wrong for the franchise. Did the success in 2018 hide some of the organization’s long-term flaws? Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Subscribe to The Athletic for just $3.99/mo to start at theathletic.com/waveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs are off on Thursday, heading into the third weekend of the season at 5-7. Their next 19 games come against the Braves, Mets, Brewers, Reds and Dodgers, all teams that are expected to be firmly in the postseason hunt this season. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick take this opportunity to consider a couple of big questions for the Cubs. Namely, is it possible that the approach that made the 2015-17 Cubs so successful and seemed to set up the franchise for a run at a dynasty outdated? Plus, we get into some of your emails. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Email us: wavelandathletic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Heading into play on April 12, the Cubs rank 27th in the majors in runs, 30th in batting average, 30th in OBP and 28th in slugging, all while carrying the third-highest strikeout rate. Sounds familiar, doesn't it? Brett, Sahadev and Patrick have no choice but to get into the doom and gloom on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you tuned in to watch any of the Cubs first six games of the season, you'd be forgiven for thinking it was still 2020. Or 2019. Or the second half of 2018. The offensive issues that have plagued this team for years seem ever-present, and that's already causing heartburn in 2021. But hey, the pitching and defense have been excellent! Brett and Sahadev get into all that, plus read some of your emails, on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs took two of three from the Pirates in their first series of the season, with Kris Bryant and the bullpen standing out as the stars of the series. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss that season-opening series on this episode of Onto Waveland. They also get into the return of fans to Wrigley Field, Ian Happ looking comfortable atop the lineup, and our listener mailbag. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Opening Day brings another season of hope for the Cubs, who should be able to compete in an NL Central that doesn't have any World Series favorites. Yet, that hope has been dampened among much of the fanbase by the lack of an extension for Anthony Rizzo. Brett, Sahadev on Patrick discuss Rizzo's contract situation on this episode of Onto Waveland. The guys also get into their expectations for the Cubs this season, and a couple of items they want to put on the record before the season begins. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the least surprising bit of news to come from Cubs camp this spring, David Ross named Kyle Hendricks the Opening Day starter. Meanwhile, at the other end of the Cubs rotation, Sahadev Sharma dove into Trevor Williams' arsenal, with help from the pitcher himself. Brett, Sahadev and Patrick get into both ends of the rotation on this episode of Onto Waveland. Plus, the guys discuss the report that Major League Baseball is finally serious about cracking down on the use of substances to doctor baseballs. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Opening Day is less than two weeks away, and three of the players most identifiable with this era of Cubs baseball remain in the final year of their current contracts. Will the Cubs extend Anthony Rizzo, Javier Báez and/or Kris Bryant sign extensions? Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney discuss on this episode of Onto Waveland. Plus, the guys get into what has been a very nice spring for Jake Arrieta. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot gave the green light for Wrigley Field and Guaranteed Rate Field to open back up at the start of the season, a great sign for what's to come this spring and summer on both sides of Chicago. On this episode of Onto Waveland, Brett, Sahadev and Patrick discuss the return of fans in 2021, with an ode to one particular Wrigley fixture. Then, the guys get into the back end of the rotation, focusing on Adbert Alzolay, Trevor Williams and Shelby Miller. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The day Cubs fans have been anticipating for years has finally arrived: The team has reportedly agreed to a deal with Eric Sogard. Kidding aside, the Sogard signing gives us an excuse to talk about the one seemingly unsettled starting position going into the spring, second base. Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney get into the second base position, with a focus on Nico Hoerner and David Bote, the value of an average player, and more on this episode of Onto Waveland. Get a subscription to The Athletic for $3.99 a month: https://theathletic.com/ontowaveland/ Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs rotation may have the least strikeout upside of any in the league. But guess what? The group's pitch-to-contact ways line up awfully well with an infield that features at least two elite defenders in Javy Báez and Anthony Rizzo, and potentially a third if Nico Hoerner becomes the regular second baseman. On this episode of Onto Waveland, Brett Taylor and Sahadev Sharma dive into the relationship between the rotation and the infield. The guys also embrace their baseball nerd within, talking about seam-shifted wake and seam mirroring, making both accessible for any listener. Plus, Patrick Mooney checks in with a dispatch from Sloan Park. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Please fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cubs pitchers and catchers reported to Mesa on February 17, making it the perfect day to bring back the regular production of Onto Waveland. Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney will be with you every week through the end of the season, getting things started by taking a look at where the roster stands heading into spring training. A lot has happened since the last episode of Onto Waveland. Kris Bryant will be with the Cubs on Opening Day, and is just one of a number of key hitters in walk years. Jed Hoyer had a long press conference. And hey, Jake Arrieta is back. The guys get into all that, and more, as the 2021 season gets underway. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It isn't often that we publish two episodes of Onto Waveland in one week in January, but all the Cubs-related news that materialized this week called for it. First, the Mets fired GM Jared Porter after an ESPN story detailed that he harassed a female reporter with unwanted, unsolicited, explicit text messages while he was employed by the Cubs in 2016. Then, the Jon Lester era came to an end when the Cubs legend signed a one-year deal with the Nationals, followed in quick succession by Tyler Chatwood joining the Blue Jays and José Quintana teaming back up with Joe Maddon in Los Angeles. Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney start this episode of Onto Waveland by discussing the Porter situation. Then, they get to end of the Lester era, and what the fact that the Cubs couldn't meet his incredibly reasonable asking price says about the team this year. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Spring Training is just about one month away, and with the arbitration filing deadline now in the past, there are no more signposts between where we are now and the reporting date for pitchers and catchers. That means there's no more putting off an offseason where the Cubs will have to be relatively active, given the holes that still exist on the roster. Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney take a look at what the next month could bring for a Cubs team that is very much in competitive limbo for the 2021 season. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney explain how Sahadev and Patrick broke the story that Yu Darvish was being traded to the Padres. Then the guys explain why the deal makes sense even if it has upset many fans. Finally a look at the rest of the offseason and what types of moves the Cubs could still make to remain competitive in the NL Central. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The seismic changes for the Cubs keep coming, and the latest one was completely unforeseen. Len Kasper is the latest mainstay to leave the Cubs, opting for the White Sox' radio booth instead of remaining the TV voice of the Cubs. Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma—who broke the Kasper news—and Patrick Mooney focus on Kasper's departure on this episode of Onto Waveland. They dive into Len's decision, the discussion around his replacement, and the seeming unending stream of major changes hitting the Cubs this offseason. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Theo Epstein Era has come to an end on the North Side of Chicago, with the team's most successful executive stepping down on November 17. Jed Hoyer is now in the big chair, taking over as the team's president of baseball operations. Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney break down the massive change in the Cubs' front office on this episode of Onto Waveland. They consider the differences between Epstein and Hoyer, and the realities facing the latter as he begins his tenure in control of the baseball side of the organization. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We close the book on our offseason preview for the Cubs on this episode of Onto Waveland with a look at the rotation. Yu Darvish, Kyle Hendricks, Alec Mills and Adbert Alzolay will be back, but Jon Lester, José Quintana and Tyler Chatwood are impending free agents. Could the Cubs bring back any of them? Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney break it all down. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If the Cubs are going to make a big splash in the offseason, it will more likely be via trade than free agency. Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney consider the trade value of key Cubs, including Willson Contreras, Craig Kimbrel and Kris Bryant, on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From D.J. LeMahieu and Michael Brantley, to Justin Turner and Shin-soo Choo, there is no shortage of impending free agents who could address some of the Cubs' greatest needs on offense. And yet, the Cubs may not have the funds available to even think about signing any of them. Michael Beller, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney discuss that unfortunate reality on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Theo Epstein's introspective end-of-season press conferences are becoming an all-too-common occurrence for Cubs fans, even though the transparency and insight is appreciated. Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney discuss the 2020 version and what it means for the Cubs, including Epstein's future with the team, on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs' season ended with a whimper this week, with the team scoring one run across two games in a Wild Card Series sweep at the hands of the Miami Marlins. Michael Beller, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney discuss the all-too-predictable end to the Cubs' season on this episode of Onto Waveland. Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 2020 MLB postseason is underway, and the Cubs kick off their Wild Card Round series with the Marlins on Wednesday. Brett Taylor and Sahadev Sharma break down the strangeness of this particular postseason, the state of the Cubs heading into the series with the Marlins, the pitching matchups, and more on this episode of Onto Waveland. Rundown 0:40 The uniqueness of the 2020 MLB postseason 7:47 Breaking down the matchup with the Marlins 14:43 The state of the bullpen 21:39 José Quintana's role in the pen 23:11 Does Brailyn Marquez have a postseason role? 30:48 Cubs' right-handed hitters vs. Marlins' starting pitchers Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The good news is that the Cubs are headed to the postseason. The bad news is that they're falling apart once again over the last week of September. Michael Beller, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney discuss the Cubs' continued offensive struggles, and look ahead to the postseason, on this episode of Onto Waveland. Rundown 2:28 The anatomy of another September collapse 9:14 Looking back at the Pirates series and ahead to the White Sox 15:55 Considering potential first-round opponents Follow Michael on Twitter: @MBeller Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kris Bryant left Monday's win over the Pirates with an oblique issue, and it could be some time before he's able to return to the field. José Quintana, however, will make his return to the mound on Tuesday, six days before the postseason begins. Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney discuss how the latest on Bryant and Quintana affects the Cubs as they start to turn their eyes toward the postseason on this episode of Onto Waveland. Rundown 1:36 Kris Bryant Dealing with an Oblique Injury 7:33 What Are the Cubs Losing if Bryant is Out? 16:01 José Quintana's Return and His Role for the Rest of the Season 24:16 Obligatory Brailyn Marquez Talk Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNation Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get a subscription to The Athletic for $1/month by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs have yet to clinch a postseason berth, but it's almost certainly just a matter of time. So what will the team do with its remaining games in the regular season? How will it prepare for a first-round series that could very well come against a team they haven't played all year? And what sort of 2020 realties will drag into the offseason? Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney dive into all those questions, and more, on this episode of Onto Waveland.0:38 Hats off to the Cubs in this Unique 2020 Season5:38 The Cubs Clinching Scenarios11:15 The Final Week of the Regular Season15:54 A Strange Offseason to Come23:25 Looking Ahead to the PostseasonFollow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNationFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get a subscription to The Athletic for $1/month by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Entering the ninth inning against the Brewers on Saturday, the Cubs had scored eight runs in their previous 41 innings, and all eight of those came in the same game. One big swing from Jason Heyward against Josh Hader changed all that, and then Alec Mills put an exclamation point on the weekend with the 16th no-hitter in franchise history. Brett Taylor and Sahadev Sharma dive into the most dramatic weekend of the Cubs' season to date on this episode of Onto Waveland.Rundown1:00 The Turning Point of the Weekend Series in Milwaukee7:05 Alec Mills Throws the 16th No-Hitter in Cubs History18:37 Sahadev Dives Deep on the Cubs' Bullpen24:51 The Most Tantalizing Arms in the Pen28:21 A Top-Five Bullpen over the Last MonthFollow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNationFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Get a subscription to The Athletic for $1/month by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Believe it or not, the Cubs' 8-5 win over the Reds on Thursday was one of the team's only true comeback victories of the season. On this episode of Onto Waveland, Michael Beller, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney discuss that fact through the lens of the Cubs' offense. They also dive into the bullpen's recent success, the team's performance against aces, and the expected look of the rotation over the final two-plus weeks of the regular season.Rundown2:54 The Cubs Come Back on Thursday6:58 Performance vs. Aces13:15 Is the Bullpen...Good?18:52 The Latest on José Quintana and Tyler ChatwoodFollow Michael on Twitter: @MBellerFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get a subscription to The Athletic for $1/month by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yu Darvish is likely the NL Cy Young frontrunner, while Kyle Hendricks is as reliable a No. 2 starter as there is in the league. Behind them, however, the Cubs' rotation has nothing but questions. Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney try to answer some of those on this episode of Onto Waveland.Rundown3:00 The Five-Game Series with the Cardinals4:16 What Happens Behind Darvish and Hendricks?10:52 The Unknowns Related to José Quintana and Tyler Chatwood14:19 Same Old Offensive Frustrations16:16 Javy Báez Sounds Off on Lack of In-Game Video24:33 The Possible Turning Point27:52 A Shifting ToneFollow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNationFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get a free 7-day trial to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs are looking at filling the rotation without José Quintana and Tyler Chatwood for the second time this season. Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney broke down how they'll do that (hint: It won't just be by slotting Adbert Alzolay into the rotation) on this episode of Onto Waveland. The guys also discuss the Cubs embracing their chirpy reputation.Rundown3:13 José Quintana and Tyler Chatwood on the IL9:47 Time for Adbert Alzolay13:26 A Strain on the Bullpen?17:49 Navigating Trips to the IL20:36 The Cubs Embrace Their Chirpy ReputationFollow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNationFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get a free 7-day trial to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs brought in four new players in trades leading up to the deadline, acquiring left-handed relievers Josh Osich and Andrew Chafin, designated hitter José Martinez, and outfielder Cameron Maybin. Michael Beller, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney break down those moves, plus the return of Kris Bryant, on this episode of Onto Waveland.Rundown1:38 Cubs Get Active During a Busy Trade Deadline4:32 The Acquisitions of José Martinez and Cameron Maybin11:20 New Lefties in the Bullpen19:33 Kris Bryant is Back26:15 Steven Souza's Role Going ForwardFollow Michael on Twitter: @MBellerFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get a free 7-day trial to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Javy Báez's two-homer game on Monday was a much-needed performance from a player who will go a long way toward determining what kind of season the Cubs end up having. Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney pronounce him back, with tongue only somewhat in cheek, on this episode of Onto Waveland. The guys also discuss the Cubs' woes with the bases loaded, the team's sudden rotation depth, and more.Rundown0:41 Javy is Back!5:55 Why Can't the Cubs Hit with the Bases Loaded?12:38 A Season Where Things Can't Even Out17:41 The Rotation is Suddenly Deep21:38 José Quintana's RoleFollow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNationFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get a free 7-day trial to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs are in the midst of a rivalry week, taking three of five from the Cardinals before hosting the White Sox for the first of two series between the two teams this season. Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney discuss the Cardinals series, the team's ability to win despite uneven offensive performances, Craig Kimbrel's resurgence, the need for a lefty in the bullpen, the White Sox series, and more on this episode of Onto Waveland.Rundown3:31 The Cubs Won the Cardinals Series...But Did It Feel Like It?7:30 Is Craig Kimbrel Back?10:15 The Need for a Lefty Reliever15:48 White Sox Offense the Best the Cubs Have Faced to Date?18:16 The Uniqueness of THIS Series with the Sox25:43 The White Sox' TurnaroundFollow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNationFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get a free 7-day trial to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It had to happen eventually, right? The Cubs finally suffered their first setback of the season, dropping four straight games to the Brewers and Cardinals. They still have a comfortable lead in the NL Central, however, and got back on track in Monday's nightcap against the Cardinals, thanks to some pinch-hit heroics from David Bote (who else?). Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney discuss slow starts for Jaiver Báez and Kris Bryant, a small hiccup for the pitching staff, issues with the offense, the dominance of Central Division relievers, the bright outlook for the Cubs, and more on this episode of Onto Waveland.Rundown0:50 David Bote Does it Again3:47 Balancing 21 Games Representing More than One-Third of the Season5:26 How Does a Player Get Comfortable With a Slow Start in a 60-Game Season?8:10 Slow Starts for Kris Bryant and Javier Báez10:20 Possible Extensions for Bryant and Báez13:01 The Cubs' Offensive Numbers20:20 A Hiccup for the Rotation23:43 Handling Losing and High-Leverage Moments30:04 A Tangent on Spin RateFollow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNationFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Get a free 7-day trial to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After an unexpected four-day layoff caused by the Cardinals' ongoing COVID-19 crisis, the Cubs returned to the field on Tuesday, facing a step up in competition against the Indians. They swept the two-gamer in Cleveland, then kicked off this weekend's four-game set with the Brewers with another win. At 13-3, the Cubs have the best record in the majors, and they already have a stranglehold of the NL Central. On this episode of Onto Waveland, Brett Taylor and Sahadev Sharma discuss Kyle Hendricks, Yu Darvish, Ian Happ, José Quintana, the upcoming series with the Cardinals, the Cubs already being near-locks for the postseason, and more.Rundown0:28 Bulls Fire Jim Boylen2:04 Zach Plesac, What Are You Doing?4:26 No Rust after the Four-Day Layoff6:20 The Rotation Remains Lights-Out11:28 What Happens When José Quintana Returns?13:22 How Will the Cubs Handle the Expected Five Games in Three Days Against the Cardinals?17:57 A Team Effort from the Offense, Led by Ian Happ21:28 The Luxury of Being 13-3 in a 60-Game Season27:00 Upcoming Starts for Tyler Chatwood and Alec MillsFollow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNationFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma Get 40% off your first-year subscription to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs return to the field Tuesday after four days off because of COVID-related postponements in St. Louis. The Indians, too, have had their issues, with pitchers Mike Clevinger and Zach Plesac in quarantine after breaking protocol and going out on the town in Chicago over the weekend. Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney discuss that on this episode of Onto Waveland. They also muse about the possibility of last weekend's Cardinals series not getting made up, and the possibility that 7-inning doubleheaders benefit the Cubs.Rundown3:18 Mike Clevinger and Zach Plesac Complicate This Week for the Cubs10:09 Cubs-Indians Two-Game Series in Cleveland15:18 Cubs Avoiding the Pitfalls20:44 Will MLB Reschedule the Postponed Cubs-Cardinals Series?29:04 Do 7-Inning Doubleheaders Benefit the Cubs?Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNationFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get 40% off your first-year subscription to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

All you can do is beat the team in front of you, which the Cubs have done 10 of 13 times this season. It must be said, however, that they haven't played the toughest competition in those 13 games. Michael Beller, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney consider the Cubs record against the company they've kept on this episode of Onto Waveland. They also talk about David Ross' role in the team's hot start, and the challenging turn in the schedule over the next two weeks.NOTE: This episode was recorded before news broke that another Cardinals player tested positive for COVID-19, postponing Friday's game. We present the podcast in its entirety and are staying on top of this fluid situation.Rundown1:28 Judging the Cubs' 10-3 Start4:20 Have the Cubs Re-Found Themselves?6:18 David Ross Has Earned the Praise15:01 Ball Bouncing in the Cubs' Favor17:13 What to Watch for Over the Next Two Weeks20:32 The Weekend Ahead in St. Louis (We Hope)24:42 Cubs' Creation of a Clubhouse Outside the ClubhouseFollow Michael on Twitter: @MBellerFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get a free 7-day trial at The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs enter play on Tuesday with the second-best record in the majors at 8-2 (the Yankees are 8-1). They've won eight of their first 10 thanks largely to the starters and offense covering up what has been an abysmal bullpen. On this episode of Onto Waveland, Brett Taylor, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney get into that bullpen—again—this time highlighting the emergence of Rowan Wick. They also discuss Kris Bryant's return, the possibility of José Quintana rejoining the team as a reliever when he comes off the IL, this weekend's series with the Cardinals possibly being in peril, and more.Rundown0:52 Bracing for a Possible COVID-Related Postponement This Weekend8:29 Alec Mills Deals, but the Bullpen Remains an Issue11:36 Would David Ross Have Pulled the Plug on Craig Kimbrel This Quickly in a 162-Game Season?12:37 The Relievers Emerging as Part of Ross' Circle of Trust16:14 Could José Quintana Return as a Reliever?22:45 Kris Bryant's Return to the Lineup27:31 Onto Waveland is Happy for Jorge SolerFollow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNationFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get 40% off your first-year subscription to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rundown0:36 Anthony Rizzo Airs His Grievances4:00 How Trustworthy are the Protocols?8:02 Seven-Inning Doubleheaders and an Extension for Expanded Rosters15:35 Does it Matter How Many Relievers the Cubs Have?20:27 "No Good Answers"22:59 Long-Term Considerations Related to 2020 Roster Decisions29:19 Reinforcements from South Bend32:05 An Opportunity over the Next Seven GamesFollow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNationFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get 40% off your first-year subscription to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rundown0:55 The Latest on the Marlins' and MLB's COVID-19 crisis6:00 Craig Kimbrel's Issues11:30 The Strangeness of the First Week13:17 A Deep Dive Into the Bullpen19:17 Could the Hitters Peak as the Bullpen Crashes?21:12 How Great Was Tyler Chatwood?24:29 Willson Contreras' Defensive Turnaround26:53 A Look at the Offense Beyond Rizzo and ContrerasFollow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNationFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rundown1:24 Celebrating Opening Day...and the Comcast/Marquee Deal!3:52 Baseball Faces its First In-Season Positive COVID-19 Test with Juan Soto7:05 Optimism Surrounding How the Cubs Have Handled Things9:59 Expanded Playoffs for 202018:47 This Weekend's Series with the Brewers25:37 Final Preseason Thoughts about the CubsFollow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNationFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get 40% off your first-year subscription to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rundown1:30 Reactions to Exhibition Games with the White Sox5:18 Offense is the Key to the Season6:51 The Core (Rizzo, Bryant, Báez, Contreras), and the Supporting Cast10:04 Does the Offense Have to Carry the Team?13:01 Jason Heyward's Role18:56 Desire for a Set Lineup20:39 A Sense of UrgencyFollow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNationFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get a free 30-day trial to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rundown1:19 Good News in the Latest Batch of Testing Statistics5:44 Kyle Hendricks Deservingly Gets the Opening Day Start15:15 Can the Rotation Make or Break the Cubs?22:21 Where's the Love for Jose Quintana?24:28 The Upside of Opportunities for Unproven Relievers28:06 Managing the Staff, Top to BottomFollow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNationFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get a free 30-day trial to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rundown0:47 Willson Contreras on the Environment at Wrigley2:56 Patrick Weighs in on the Cubs' Latest Testing Delay6:58 What Happens in the Regular Season?9:26 Concerns with the Decision-Making Process17:14 Yu Darvish's CommentsFollow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNationFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get a free 30-day trial to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rundown2:10 Feeling OK about Talking Just Baseball5:25 Contreras' Intrasquad Homer off Kimbrel, Rizzo's Back Tightness, Press Box Normalcy9:27 Diving into the Cubs' 2020 Schedule10:46 The Idea of Homefield Advantage15:38 The Reds' Interleague Advantage19:17 Cubs at White Sox Season-Ending Series22:03 Considering the Cubs' First 60 Games in 201924:30 Managing a Different Type of Grind27:44 The Challenge for David RossFollow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNationFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get a free 30-day trial to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rundown0:30 Opening Week Problems at Training Camp2:47 Is This Even Possible?4:55 David Ross' Statements on the Situation8:04 The Supposed Easy Part10:00 What Are the Signals That This Isn't Working?12:09 Freddie Freeman's Positive Test15:11 It All Depends on Trust18:09 The Ubiquity of ChangeFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get a free 30-day trial to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rundown2:14 The Cardinals' Pitching Depth3:38 Do the Reds Have the Division's Best Offense?6:01 The Pirates' New-Look Front Office7:00 Cubs Still Striving to Reach the Offense's Full Potential8:55 Keston Hiura's Key Role for the Brewers11:39 The DH Situations in St. Louis and Cincinnati15:28 The Effects of José Quintana's Injury20:28 How Can the Pirates Be a Thorn in Some Team's Side?24:19 An Elite Bullpen in Milwaukee Looms Large27:25 The One Player You Cover You're Most Excited to Watch32:43 Prediction Time!Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Michael on Twitter: @MBellerFollow Mark (Cardinals) on Twitter: @markasaxonFollow Trent (Reds) on Twitter: @ctrentFollow Will (Brewers) on Twitter: @WillSammonFollow Rob (Pirates) on Twitter: @RobBiertempfel Get a free 30-day trial to The Athletic at theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rundown2:17 Ryan Dempster Joins Onto Waveland3:51 The Landscape of the 2020 Season6:36 David Ross' Handling of the Team This Year8:58 Reinforces Messages of Accountability12:09 It's Already Trade Deadline Time14:35 Wrigleyville in the COVID-19 Era16:20 'Off the Mound' with Ryan Dempster23:30 Takeaways from the David Ross/Jed Hoyer Zoom Conference30:29 First Look at the Cubs' 2020 Roster35:50 Juan Gámez's Potential for 2020Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_MooneyFollow Michael on Twitter: @MBeller Get a free 30-day trial to The Athletic at theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rundown2:30 Burl Carraway Joins the Show2:45 The Whirlwind of the Last Three Months4:00 Onboarding with the Cubs5:20 Early Experience with Cubs Coaches and Staffers6:25 Getting to Know Craig Breslow7:19 Making the Taxi Squad?8:14 Embracing Being a Reliever9:24 First Zoom Meeting with the Cubs10:44 Reaction on Social Media12:28 The Wrigley Experience and Thank You, Burl15:11 The Decisions at Either End of the Taxi Squad21:27 The Shape of 2020's New-Look Schedule24:50 Alec Mills' and Adbert Alzolay's Roles This SeasonFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_MooneyFollow Michael on Twitter: @MBeller Get a free 30-day trial to The Athletic at theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rundown0:25 Baseball is Back3:10 Changes for 20205:07 The Ever-Present Challenges of COVID-198:14 End of the Transaction Freeze and Cubs Taxi Squad Musings11:42 The August 31 Trade Deadline14:47 The Possibility of Players Opting Out16:53 How Do Front Offices Recalibrate Trade Value?21:44 An Interesting Season for Cubs FansFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get a free 30-day trial to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rundown0:27 Movement Toward a 2020 MLB Season4:07 Why Was So Much Time Wasted?9:07 Getting Excited for, and Being Realistic about, the Future13:07 'When and 'Where' and the Owners' Response19:36 The Ramping-Up Period for PitchersFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get a free 30-day trial to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rundown0:24 Rob Manfred's Latest Comments6:58 The Players' Understanding of MLB's Labor History9:43 Is It Good for the Overall Business of Baseball to Treat Every Decision as a Bottom-Line Business Decision?13:00 How Manfred's Background Has Influenced the Negotiations16:04 The Owners' Overwhelmingly Large Role19:35 Recent Comments by Tom Ricketts and Bill DeWitt Jr.Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get a free 30-day trial to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rundown1:47 What Stood out about Ed Howard?3:21 Brian Watching Ed in the LLWS...While at Wrigley Field5:18 An Extremely Strong Work Ethic8:04 Handling the Hometown Pressure9:58 A Potentially Elite Glove at Shortstop11:21 Offense Taking Off with Physical Growth12:03 The Draft Background Process15:24 Brian's Last Word on Ed HowardFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get a free 30-day trial to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rundown2:34 The Cubs' Approach to the Draft Under Dan Kantrovitz5:46 Player Development App in the Minor League System8:52 Recruiting Experience14:38 Putting Money into Player Development19:46 Specific Challenges of the 2020 DraftFollow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNationFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get a free 30-day trial to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rundown1:16 Thank You, Adam2:51 Re-Immersing Yourself in Where the Cubs Were Before the Shutdown4:59 Good News on the Horizon?8:58 The Latest on the MLB/MLBPA Tug of War23:25 The Issue with Soft Deadlines27:32 Is the Draft a Signpost Event for the 2020 Season?Follow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNationFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter: @PJ_Mooney Get a free 30-day trial to The Athletic by visiting theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With protests emerging all across the country, even next to Wrigley Field, difficult and uncomfortable conversations are being had, from the discussions of Black athletes holding back their true feelings to avoid conflict to the delayed public response from MLB in speaking out against systemic racial injustice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs are releasing players, making month-to-month plans and hoping for some clarity soon. Details on return-to-play ideas and what’s at stake for the entire baseball industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tony Andracki of Marquee Sports Network explains the vibe in Wrigleyville, how the Cubs would be positioned in a shortened season and the challenges of covering a team in lockdown mode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A look at how fans feel about possibly attending games without a COVID-19 vaccine, optimism for the Cubs over the next five years and just how much people would appreciate the 2020 World Series champions should a season be completed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tom Verducci, the author of a definitive book on the Wrigley Field rebuild, offers his insights into the future of pitching, what a shortened season could mean for the Cubs and Theo Epstein’s next move. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ken Rosenthal joins the podcast and tells us how the Cubs future plans may be altered by COVID-19, how a cancelled season could severely impact front offices and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

First impressions of Major League Baseball’s return-to-play proposal and the enormous obstacles facing the owners and the players’ union. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rundown2:04 How Did Sahadev and Patrick Select the Key 'What if...' Questions?4:15 Trading for Jose Quintana, Passing on Justin Verlander15:06 The Team's Inability to Develop Pitching Prospects18:32 A New Approach for the 2017 Amateur Draft23:07 Did We Mention the Lack of Pitching in the System? What if the Cubs traded for Justin Verlander in 2017? by Patrick Mooney and Sahadev SharmaFollow Brett on Twitter: @BleacherNationFollow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharmaFollow Patrick on Twitter @PJ_Mooney Get a free 30-day trial to The Athletic at: theathletic.com/ontowaveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With more and more talk of baseball returning this summer, ideas on how to make broadcasting games in empty ballparks more unique and compelling are bandied about. Is this an opportunity for MLB to bring in more fans by being willing to experiment with how games are broadcast? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What the Cubs and Wrigley Field will look like on Opening Day two years from now. Let’s play some fantasy baseball. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While optimism grows that the game will return in 2020, a world with baseball being played in empty ballparks gets closer to being a reality. Former big-leaguer Doug Glanville joins the podcast to share how fans positively impacted his career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Looking back at the Cubs who didn’t pan out and wondering what this shutdown will mean for the next generation of players and a farm system that once viewed 2020 as a pivotal year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From hiring Theo Epstein to signing Jon Lester, a look back at the deals, ideas and personalities that shaped the 2016 World Series champs and a golden age of baseball in Wrigleyville. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs came into this season with two years of control over many of their most important players. But what happens now when the first of those two years is so dramatically impacted? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discussing the economic impact on a unique neighborhood without Cubs baseball, and the importance of supporting your small, local businesses. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Digging into all the Arizona contingency plans, hoping for the Cubs and White Sox to be in the same Cactus League division and wondering what the baseball product might look like after a long shutdown. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Senior Baseball Writer Keith Law joins Brett and Sahadev to discuss the state of the Cubs’ multi-year process of rebuilding the farm system, the impact of baseball’s shutdown on the draft, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A word of thanks to subscribers, shout-outs to some talented radio folks, doomsday scenarios and general nonsense as we adjust to life without Cubs baseball. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With what should’ve been the 2020 home opener behind us, a discussion of what would’ve been and what actually was in Wrigleyville. News that Toronto has banned all public events through June gives us a sobering reality of what baseball faces in its attempt to return this summer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

First impressions of the deal taking shape between Major League Baseball and the players’ union and what it could mean for the 2020 Cubs if there is a baseball season this year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nobody wants to see baseball’s regular season reduced significantly, but with that possibility looming, what can MLB do with the extra time it has and a season that will necessarily be unusual? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Looking back on some first impressions from Arizona and what it will mean for the front office, manager David Ross and Cubs players moving forward. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Everyone is finding their footing a bit right now, and what that means for “enjoying sports” is still something of an open question. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The guys talk about the dizzying week that saw baseball and other sports essentially shut down for an unknown period of time, and what the near-term is going to look like. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett and Patrick discuss MLB’s decision to limit media access in the wake of the spreading coronavirus, and how the concerns could seriously impact baseball and related industries. Also, thoughts on Craig Kimbrel’s first Spring Training with the Cubs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A legendary manager returns to Mesa and continues to cast a long shadow over Cubs camp, so let’s play the blame game. Plus a trip inside the top-secret Pitch Lab where the Cubs are trying to reprogram their pitchers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Ross is back running the show, Tyler Chatwood is the X-factor for a wide-open pitching staff and the Cubs are finally focused on the 2020 campaign after a long winter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett and Sahadev talk about Kris Bryant’s impressive arrival at Spring Training and new job atop the lineup. David Ross, Joe Maddon, preparation, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Patrick and Sahadev are out in Arizona picking up the vibe at a slightly different Cubs camp as pitchers and catchers report, and players kick off their spring. A new manager, old trade rumors, and the story lines to watch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With most of the offseason in the rearview, the guys get back together to discuss Cubs Convention, the many risks that lay ahead, and fans sitting angrily in the corner, pounding their fists in a futile effort to discern just whom to blame. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Patrick and Sahadev sit down for a very special podcast as the guys talk about who they put on their Chicago Cubs All-Decade Team. Do you agree with their picks? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Onto Waveland returns after a brief hiatus as the guys discuss which changes behind the scenes that have already been made could be most impactful for the Cubs. Of course, what matters most is the team on the field and with free agency not expected to be their route of choice, who gets traded and what needs those potential trades would have to fill will be a topic to follow for much of the winter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cubs are hiring — who else? — David Ross to be their next manager. What it means in the clubhouse, the front office and the interview room at Wrigley Field. Plus World Series thoughts on the classless way the Houston Astros run their operation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Decoding what Theo Epstein really means when he talks about change and how the Cubs have too often looked back at the 2016 World Series. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett, Patrick and Sahadev look back on the Joe Maddon era. They describe the scene in St. Louis for Maddon’s final game (2:20). Should this team have been better the last two years (10:10). Was this a firing (12:30)? Where will Maddon land and who’s next for Cubs (21:55)? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cardinals knocked the Cubs out of the National Central race and into their winter of reckoning. How the 2019 team and maybe this entire era at Wrigley Field will be remembered. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Anthony Rizzo’s injury another sign that this simply isn’t the Cubs’ year? Or have these issues around the team been building to the point where it can no longer be written off? Subscribe now to hear new episodes of The Lead each weekday morning: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lead/id1478448344 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The desperate Cubs are promoting a top prospect to San Diego and heading in the direction of Boston with huge decisions looming. Making sense of the Nico Hoerner move and the Dave Dombrowski firing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Patrick Mooney, Brett Taylor and Sahadev Sharma talk Cubs twice a week filling you in on everything you need to know about the team and what's going on at Wrigley. Every Monday, you can listen to Onto Waveland for free on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts, while you can catch Thursday's episode exclusively on The Athletic. You can start your 40% off subscription today by joining through theathletic.com/waveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices