Cubs Go All-In with Alex Bregman, Kyle Tucker Era Officially Ends | Bleacher Nation Cubs episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 16, 2026 · 52 MIN

Cubs Go All-In with Alex Bregman, Kyle Tucker Era Officially Ends | Bleacher Nation Cubs

from The Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast · host brett taylor, michael cerami

Brett and Michael are back for the forty-fifth episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law), and it’s been a very busy week.The Cubs finally made their biggest move of the offseason—and one of the biggest in franchise history—signing third baseman Alex Bregman to a five-year, $175 million deal. With deferrals lowering the luxury tax hit, the Cubs pushed decisively into their contention window, adding a true middle-of-the-order presence and locking down third base. The guys discuss why the timing made sense, what it says about ownership and the front office, and how Bregman’s arrival reshapes the roster—most notably pushing Matt Shaw into a super-utility role that could benefit both the lineup and Shaw’s long-term development.They also react to the other major news of the week: Kyle Tucker officially signing with the Dodgers. Once viewed as a potential long-term cornerstone after an MVP-caliber first half, Tucker’s Cubs tenure unraveled amid injuries, inconsistency, and a quiet finish. Brett and Michael reflect on how quickly the narrative shifted, why an extension never materialized, and what his departure means now that the Cubs have pivoted aggressively toward winning in the immediate future.A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.comRead more Cubs coverage ➡️ bleachernation.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brett and Michael break down a massive week for the Cubs, headlined by the signing of Alex Bregman and the departure of Kyle Tucker to the Dodgers. They discuss what Bregman’s deal means for the Cubs’ contention window, roster construction, and long-term planning, and reflect on how Tucker’s Cubs tenure ultimately fizzled after a promising start.

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Cubs Go All-In with Alex Bregman, Kyle Tucker Era Officially Ends | Bleacher Nation Cubs

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This episode was published on January 16, 2026.

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Brett and Michael are back for the forty-fifth episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law), and it’s been a very busy week.The Cubs finally made their biggest move of the offseason—and one of the biggest in franchise...

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