Onto Waveland: A show about the Chicago Cubs (The Athletic)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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, 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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, 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