CubsPS+ #101: Brick By Brick

Bleacher Bunch Network: A Chicago Cubs Podcast

Welcome back to the podcast! In Episode 101, I dive deep into how the Cubs are building their pitching staff, including rotation depth, bullpen construction, and the strategy behind their moves this offseason.

Key Topics in This Episode:

🔹 Cubs' Approach to Pitching Depth

• The Cubs are prioritizing depth and flexibility to avoid last year’s bullpen struggles.
• How they’re structuring the rotation to maximize innings and limit overuse.
• Piggybacking and multi-inning relievers: A new approach for 2024?

🔹 Bullpen Overhaul: Who Steps Up?

• Ryan Pressly likely to start as the closer, but Porter Hodge, Julian Merryweather, and Tyson Miller could all factor into high-leverage spots.
• Keegan Thompson, Eli Morgan, and Javier Assad provide versatility in middle relief.
• The Cubs' philosophy: more arms, more options, fewer bullpen meltdowns.

🔹 Rotation Depth: More Reliable Than 2023?

• Projected starting five: Justin Steele, Shota Imanaga, Jameson Taillon, Matthew Boyd, and Colin Rea.
• Depth options: Javier Assad, Jordan Wicks, Ben Brown, Luke Little, and Caleb Killian.
• Cubs might still be in the market for a mid-rotation starter—who's available?

🔹 Trade & Free Agent Targets

• Cubs have been linked to Dylan Cease and Michael King—what would it take to get them?
• Are they still considering signing a veteran reliever like David Robertson?
• Long-term bullpen vision: Can the Cubs build a sustainable bullpen instead of relying on quick fixes?

🔹 Can This Bullpen Hold Up Over 162 Games?

• Lessons from 2023: The bullpen collapsed early due to overuse and injuries.
• Why a mix of veterans and young power arms might work better this time.
• Will the Cubs' depth help avoid last year’s late-season fade?

Final Thoughts:

The Cubs have more bullpen weapons and pitching depth than they’ve had in years, but is it enough? This year’s success could depend on whether their high-upside arms deliver—or if they still need one more big move.

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