CubsPS+ #110: The Joy of Greatness

CubsPS+ Episode 110: The Joy of Greatness – PCA and 40 Years of Cubs Magic In this episode, I took a step back from the spreadsheets and stat lines to talk about something more visceral: joy. Specifically, the kind of joy that comes from watching greatness unfold right in front of us. Pete Crow-Armstrong isn’t just playing well—he’s turning every game into an event. I start by connecting this episode’s number—110—to two Cubs legends: Ron Santo (#10 forever) and PCA’s preseason 110 WRC+ projection. PCA has blown past that projection with a 137 WRC+ and has already become one of the most exciting players in baseball. I dive into his elite defense, blazing speed, and emerging bat—and why it all adds up to something Cubs fans haven’t seen in decades. This episode isn’t just about numbers—it's about feeling. The vibe. The aura. The once-in-a-generation energy that PCA is bringing. Inspired by PCA, I reflect on the rare moments over the last 40+ years when Cubs players reached that same level of "must-watch greatness": Andre Dawson’s MVP season in 1987 Greg Maddux’s dominance before the Cubs let him walk Kerry Wood’s 20-strikeout masterpiece Sammy Sosa’s video-game numbers and unforgettable 1998 Derrick Lee’s incredible 2005 season Javy Báez’s electric mix of flash and power Jake Arrieta’s unreal run from mid-2015 to mid-2016 I ask a simple but essential question: When was the last time watching Cubs baseball felt like this? With the team on a 99-100 win pace despite injuries and with PCA leading a resurgence in center field, I urge listeners to appreciate the moment. I wrap with a reminder: greatness is rare. Don’t just analyze it. Enjoy it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices