Bleacher Bunch #8: Cubs Baseball is BACK!

Bleacher Bunch Network: A Chicago Cubs Podcast

🎙 Host: Mike Waller, Guests: Evan Altman & Sara Sanchez

📅 Date: February 20, 2025

⚾ Podcast Network: Fans First Sports Network

Episode Summary:

In this live-hosted episode of Bleacher Bunch, I take the mic for the first time in a live setting—so go easy on me (or don’t, I know you won’t). I’m joined by Evan Altman of Cubs Insider, and later by Sarah Sanchez, to talk all things Cubs Spring Training, Justin Turner’s signing, bullpen depth, and the DFA of Alexander Canario—a move that sparked some heated reactions.

With the Cactus League underway, we break down the Cubs’ first spring game, early player impressions, and the impact of rule changes like the ABS challenge system.

Key Topics Covered:

🔹 Cubs Spring Training Opener: Who Stood Out?

• Gage Workman’s impressive debut: Is he the real deal or just a flash?
• Kevin Alcantara, Moises Ballesteros, and James Triantos – promising performances from young Cubs
• Cody Poteet makes history – first-ever ABS challenge winner in MLB history
• How the Cubs’ bullpen pieces looked in game action

🔹 The Justin Turner Signing & Roster Implications

• Cubs sign Justin Turner (1-year, $6M with a mutual option)
• How will Turner be used? Platoon bat? DH? Backup first baseman?
• What Turner brings to the clubhouse: Veteran leadership & grit
• Could this signing actually benefit the Cubs’ bench depth?

🔹 Alexander Canario DFA Fallout: Why?

• Jed Hoyer’s handling of young talent: Why does this keep happening?
• Canario’s strong 2023 debut (45 PA, .286/.333/.524, 2 HR) – why not give him a chance?
• The Cubs keep Vidal Brujan (career 50 WRC+, 550 PA) over Canario – does that make sense?
• Are the Cubs bad at selling high on prospects?
• Cubs’ track record of trading/dumping power-hitting Latinos (Morel, Velázquez, Contreras, now Canario)

🔹 Cubs’ Bench & Bullpen Upgrades – Have They Raised the Floor?

• Bullpen breakdown: Why this year’s group might be better
• The importance of depth & flexibility
• Craig Counsell’s bullpen philosophy – expect early-season instability
• Does Turner + Workman + Birdie make the Cubs’ bench finally competent?

🔹 Rule Changes & What They Mean for the Cubs

• ABS challenge system debuts – will it help patient hitters like Seiya Suzuki?
• Cubs pitchers & the challenge system: Will it affect pitch selection?

🔹 Final Thoughts & Fan Reactions

• Are the Cubs building a contender, or just filling gaps?
• Can Jed Hoyer survive this season if the Cubs underperform?
• The fanbase reacts to Spring Training moves

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