CubsPS+ #89: Process…or Processing Loss

Bleacher Bunch Network: A Chicago Cubs Podcast

Podcast Episode 89 - Show Notes

Title: Process…or Processing Loss

Episode Summary: In this episode, I take a deep dive into the 2024 Cubs season, reflecting on the highs, lows, and what lies ahead for the team. From comparing this season to previous disappointing years, like 2004 and 1985, to assessing the team’s shortcomings, I break down where things went wrong and what needs to change. This episode is all about processing the loss of a season, looking at the team’s structure, and starting to think about the future.

Topics Covered:

• Introduction to Episode 89
• Why I’ve named this the “Robert Stock Episode” – and no, it’s not Robert Stack from Unsolved Mysteries.
• Overview of the Cubs' season: reflecting on the disappointments, missed expectations, and underperformance.
• Processing Loss: Parallels with Previous Cubs Seasons
• I compare 2024 to past disappointing seasons like 2004 and 1985.
• Injuries, bad trades, and underperformance defined these seasons, and 2024 feels eerily similar.
• How this year ranks as one of the most disappointing Cubs seasons in my fandom.
• Expectations vs. Reality: Preseason Projections
• Revisiting preseason predictions and betting lines, which had the Cubs pegged at around 84-86 wins.
• My personal prediction of a 90-win season and why the Cubs ultimately didn’t reach those expectations.
• Discussion of why the Cubs couldn’t make significant moves at the trade deadline due to their middling performance.
• The Upcoming Offseason: What the Cubs Need
• Cubs’ roster assessment: A look at the current squad, potential non-tenders, and decisions around Cody Bellinger and other key players.
• What the Cubs need going forward: Not minor tweaks, but major additions like an ace pitcher, closer, or big bat to elevate the team.
• Young talent waiting in the wings: Matt Shaw, James Triantos, Owen Caissie, and others who are close to being Major League ready.
• A discussion of Craig Counsell’s approach as manager and the tension between him and the front office.
• Individual Player Highlights & Performances
• Assessing key performances from players like Seiya Suzuki, Ian Happ, and Cody Bellinger.
• Can Suzuki and Happ maintain their momentum going into next season?
• The Cubs' bullpen: Potential, struggles, and the importance of adding impact arms.
• The Emotional Farewell to Kyle Hendricks
• Reflecting on Kyle Hendricks’ likely last start with the Cubs, his legacy, and why he deserves a grand send-off.
• Hendricks’ role in Cubs history, from his dominance in the 2016 NLDS to his potential final season in 2024.
• What’s Next for the Cubs?
• Preparing for a long offseason, filled with decisions around trades, free agents, and young talent integration.
• Processing the end of the season and looking forward to the 2025 Cubs, whether they make big moves or stay the course.

Key Quotes:

• “This season feels like a lost cause, much like 2004 and 1985. The injuries, the missed opportunities—this one stings.”
• “The Cubs need to go big this offseason. No more minor additions. We need an ace, a closer, or a big bat to push us over the edge.”
• “Kyle Hendricks deserves a grand farewell. He’s been a cornerstone of this team and one of the most reliable pitchers I’ve seen.”

Call to Action:

• Thank you for tuning in to Episode 89. If you’re still watching Cubs baseball, enjoy the final few games, and stay tuned for offseason analysis and breakdowns. Be sure to subscribe for updates and join the conversation as we process this season together.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices