CubsPS+ #105: Spring Training Listener Mailbag

Bleacher Bunch Network: A Chicago Cubs Podcast

Episode Summary:

It’s Episode 105, and I’m calling this the Tony Womack episode—a tribute to a player I got to know personally while he was coaching my son’s high school team. Womack brought incredible energy to the game, and I hope this episode captures some of that as we dive into all things Cubs.

The Cubs are off to a hot 9-2 start in spring training, and while wins don’t mean much in March, it’s been exciting to see young players step up. Today, I tackle a listener mailbag, covering everything from bullpen battles, underrated hitters, and the Cubs' roster depth, to whether the front office made the right moves this offseason.

Plus, I’m giving away five Cubs PS Plus hats to some lucky listeners!

Key Topics Covered:

🔹 Spring Training Takeaways – Who’s Standing Out?

• Cubs are 9-2 – does it mean anything?
• Why prospect performance is more important than wins
• Kevin Alcantara, Gage Workman, Moises Ballesteros – which young bats are ready?
• Bullpen depth battle – who’s making the cut?

🔹 Listener Mailbag: Answering Your Cubs Questions

Bullpen Battles: Who’s Locked In?

• Ryan Presley, Ryan Brasier, Caleb Thielbar, Porter Hodge – who else makes the cut?
• Keegan Thompson & Tyson Miller’s struggles – are they out?
• Ben Brown vs. Nate Pearson for a bullpen spot
• Yency Almonte’s surprise signing – will he crack the roster?

Which Young Players Will We See in 2025?

• Gage Workman (Rule 5 pick) – does he stick?
• Kevin Alcantara’s breakout spring – could he force his way onto the roster?
• Moises Ballesteros keeps hitting – when will he make his MLB debut?
• Cade Horton, Jordan Wicks, and Brandon Birdsell – when do we see them in the rotation?

Are the Cubs Done Making Moves?

• Could they still add a reliever? (David Robertson, anyone?)
• Why the Cubs still have $28M of payroll space before the CBT
• Potential trade deadline targets if they need help

Who Gets the Last Bench Spot?

• Gage Workman vs. Vidal Brujan – who wins the final roster spot?
• Does Kevin Alcantara make the Opening Day roster?
• Why Craig Counsell finally has the depth to manage matchups

Underrated Player Who Could Break Out

• My pick: Dansby Swanson
• Why injuries zapped his power in 2024
• How rest and a better bench could unlock a return to form

🔹 Final Thoughts & Season Outlook

• Cubs’ depth is better than it’s been in years – but is it enough?
• Why this year’s success will depend on injuries and player development
• Biggest concerns heading into Opening Day

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