Cubs Talk Podcast
by Chicago Sports Network
The Cubs Talk Podcast breaks down all things baseball on the North Side. Host Leila Rahimi, James Neveau, and Nate Poppen bring insider perspectives, regular player interviews, and news updates during the team’s pursuit of another championship. New episodes release every Wednesday morning.
Episodes
-
Cubs Talk podcast looks back at 2024, addresses team’s biggest needs for 2025
The Cubs Talk podcast takes a look at the 2024 season, evaluating the biggest successes, including the development of Michael Busch and the emergence of Shota Imanaga, and the biggest failures as the team once again misses the playoffs. The crew then evaluates the road ahead for 2025, with free...
-
Shota Imanaga’s no-hitter, Anthony Rizzo’s return highlight massive week for Cubs
It's been quite the ride for the Chicago Cubs this week, and James Neveau and Leila Rahimi break it all down on Cubs Talk. Shota Imanaga and the Cubs combine for a no-hitter, but did Craig Counsell make the right call in pulling him, and just how amazing has the hurler's season been? Leila and...
-
Guardians’ sweep of Cubs, luxury tax questions cloud 2025 outlook for North Sider
The Chicago Cubs are fresh off a sweep at the hands of the Cleveland Guardians, leaving Leila Rahimi and James Neveau to ask where things stand with a quarter of the season remaining. The duo chat about missed opportunities in Cleveland, how moral victories at this stage of the year have lost...
-
Isaac Paredes arrives, Mark Leiter departs amid fascinating trade deadline
In a post-trade deadline edition of the Cubs Talk podcast, Leila Rahimi and James Neveau break down all the moves the Cubs made in the leadup to deadline. Isaac Paredes arrives on the North Side of Chicago, but is the upgrade worth the cost the Cubs gave up in losing Christopher Morel? And do...
-
Discussing Chicago Cubs trade deadline moves, prospects, and future stars
On the latest Cubs Talk Podcast, host James Neveau is joined by Greg Huss, host of the Cubs on Deck Podcast and co-founder of NorthsideBound.com, to dive deep into the Cubs' strategy and future. They discuss potential trade deadline moves (1:55), emphasizing that any decisions need to keep next...
-
Cubs draft analysis and first-half season breakdown
On the latest Cubs Talk Podcast, Leila Rahimi and Nate Poppen dive into the Cubs' selection of Cam Smith from Florida State with the 14th pick and whether he's truly a third baseman (0:54). They tackle the issue of having too many young bats without a defensive position (4:00) and discuss the…
more -
Shota Imanaga the All-Star and Nico Hoerner the trade candidate?
James Neveau and Leila Rahimi run through a jampacked week in Cubs baseball, starting with Shota Imanaga's selection to the All-Star Game. The duo chats about his incredible rookie season, and shares a surprising comp for Michael Busch's campaign so far. Later, Leila and James discuss the...
-
Cubs put up lackluster performance vs. Brewers, can they pull out of the tailspin they are in?
Leila Rahimi and James Neveau break down the Cubs' series loss against the Milwaukee Brewers and the sad state of the team as July begins. They discuss the lackluster performances of key players, the team's failed free agent acquisitions and trades heading into the 2024 season, and whether the…
more -
A painful week in San Francisco, and our Cubs’ midseason award winners
The Cubs Talk podcast takes another look at the struggling North Siders as they drop three-of-four to the Giants and hit the halfway mark of their season. James Neveau and Peter Marzano discuss the shoddy bullpen and the shocking resurgence of Kyle Hendricks before getting into their midseason...
-
Cubs Talk breaks down Kyle Hendricks and Ian Happ’s resurgences, Hector Neris’ status
For the first time in a month, the Cubs have won a three-game series, and James Neveau, Nate Poppen and Peter Marzano break it all down. Kyle Hendricks’ dramatic improvement in June is showcased, along with Ian Happ’s recent surge in extra-base hits and impactful moments. The guys then discuss...
-
Can Craig Counsell, Cubs save spiraling season?
In a subdued Cubs Talk podcast, James Neveau and Peter Marzano ask the question that's on everybody's minds: Can the 2024 Cubs pull out of their tailspin and make the playoffs? The guys break down the loss to the Rays, question Jed Hoyer's decision-making in constructing this year's roster, and...
-
Can Cubs inconsistent offense and Pete Crow-Armstrong’s return to the Cubs
On the latest Cubs Talk Podcast, Leila Rahimi and Peter Marzano review and break down the Brewers series and the issues that are being exposed including the lack of consistent hitting (1:00). Have the Cubs prioritized defense too much in building this team and not enough offense (10:39)? Leila…
more -
Struggling Cubs can’t hit, but is there still reason for optimism?
In this edition of the Cubs Talk podcast, Leila Rahimi and James Neveau discuss the offensively challenged Cubs after a painful week against the Pirates and Braves. Cody Bellinger, Ian Happ and Michael Busch are all under the microscope as Craig Counsell's lineup faces scrutiny, but are the…
more -
Cubs in crisis: Navigating injuries and offensive struggles
On this episode of the Cubs Talk Podcast, Leila Rahimi and Peter Marzano dive into the Cubs' injury woes, highlighting their impact on the team's performance. From Dansby Swanson's placement on the injured list to the importance of depth in navigating a challenging season, they explore the team's...
-
Cubs ride through ups and downs, embrace successes of Shota Imanaga, Javier Assad
In today's episode of the Cubs Talk podcast, Leila Rahimi and James Neveau try to figure out what to think of the team after a homestand of mixed results. They praise the team's dominant starting pitching, but also ask questions about the struggles of players like Ian Happ and Dansby Swanson. The...
-
Chicago Cubs’ Big Apple Showdown: Strengths, Weaknesses & Bullpen Woes!
The Cubs split a riveting four-game series in New York against the Mets that exposed some of the team's most notable strengths and weaknesses. Peter Marzano and Leila Rahimi recap four games in the Big Apple while breaking down struggles within the Cubs bullpen. Leila and Peter then discuss how…
more -
Cubs battle through injuries to hot start, but how will they respond with tough schedule ahead?
Peter Marzano and Nate Poppen talk recent roster moves that include Kyle Hendricks heading to the injured list and a callup of first base prospect Matt Mervis as the Cubs wrap up their homestand, while discussing Hendricks' potential role on the team once he returns. The guys then discuss which...
-
Michael Busch powers road trip, but how worried should fans be about Kyle Hendricks?
The Cubs are back home, and James Neveau and Peter Marzano are breaking down their recent West Coast road trip. Series victories over Seattle and Arizona are broken down, as is the performance of the team's starting rotation and bullpen amid a series of injury concerns (1:15). The guys then…
more -
Cubs Talk breaks down season-opening homestand, injury updates for key players
In today's Cubs Talk podcast, James Neveau and Peter Marzano discuss the team's 5-1 homestand, with big wins over the Rockies and Dodgers (1:00). They evaluate the team's plate approach so far this season, and heap praise on Michael Busch, Seiya Suzuki and other contributors (4:00). The guys also...
-
Cubs Talk Podcast: Live from Wrigley Field
On a special edition of Cubs Talk, Leila Rahimi and James Neveau are live from Wrigley Field ahead of Opening Day. They discuss the Cubs' rotation after Justin Steele's injury, and break down the opening series against the Rangers. They also discuss Shota Imanaga's debut, Christopher Morel's hot...
-
2024 MLB Season Preview: Can the Chicago Cubs clinch the division?
The wait is over! Dive into the ultimate breakdown of the 2024 Cubs season with the Cubs Talk Podcast! Join James Neveau and Peter Marzano as they dissect every aspect of the team's potential triumph. From pitching prowess to batting brilliance, they leave no base untouched (2:30). Expect heated...
-
Craig Counsell sets Opening Day rotation, and what can we expect of Shota Imanaga?
On today's Cubs Talk podcast, James Neveau and Nate Poppen react to Craig Counsell's decision to include Jordan Wicks and Javier Assad in the team's Opening Day rotation. They set their expectations for both hurlers and share insight on why Assad nabbed the last job over Drew Smyly. The guys also...
-
Jameson Taillon in doubt for Opening Day and other Cubs insights with Meghan Montemurro
On today's Cubs Talk podcast, Leila Rahimi and James Neveau talk to Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune about all the latest happenings in Mesa. Meghan breaks down the latest injury news on Jameson Taillon (4:53), and evaluates the Cubs' options as they look to put together their 2024…
more -
Cody Bellinger’s debut, prospect breakdown and a David Bote return
On this edition of the Cubs Talk Podcast, Leila Rahimi and James Neveau discuss Cody Bellinger's debut at Spring Training and the plan for him this season (1:07). Later on in the pod, they break down the Cubs prospects they are keeping an eye on including Alexander Canario, Owen Caissie and the...
-
Implications of Cody Bellinger signing with the Cubs
On a new Cubs Talk Podcast, Leila Rahimi, Peter Marzano and Nate Poppen discuss the implications of Cody Bellinger's signing with the Cubs and how the deal got done (1:09). Later, they discuss Jed Hoyer's relationship with Scott Boras and his clients and how players' relationships with the teams...
-
Cubs, Cody Bellinger agree to three-year deal
On a special episode of the Cubs Talk podcast, James Neveau and Peter Marzano discuss the return of Cody Bellinger. The duo chats about the structure of the deal, what it tells us about Jed Hoyer's negotiating and spending habits, and how they feel the process played out. The guys also get into...
-
Cubs owner Tom Ricketts talks Cody Bellinger and spending
On a new Cubs Talk Podcast, Leila Rahimi, James Neveau and Peter Marzano discuss and break down Cubs owner Tom Ricketts' media availability. They discuss the most glaring statements made by Ricketts (1:15), react to his comments about Cody Bellinger's free agency situation (8:54), and discuss the...
-
Craig Counsell already making an impact at Spring Training
Cubs Spring Training is set to begin and to get you prepped and ready the Cubs Talk crew is joined by NBC 5 Sports anchor Mike Berman from Scottsdale, Arizona. The crew discusses new manager Craig Counsell's impact on the team so far (1:00), how will he manage the bullpen (10:16) and the young...
-
PECOTA unkind to North Siders, so is it time to hard-charge Bellinger signing?
In today's Cubs Talk podcast, James Neveau and Peter Marzano discuss Baseball Prospectus' PECOTA projections for the 2024 Cubs. Do they buy the Cubs as an 80-win team, and are they really second-best behind the Cardinals in the National League Central? Should Shota Imanaga and Hector Neris give...
-
As free agents sign, are Cubs missing chance to make impactful offseason additions?
On this episode of the Cubs Talk Podcast, Leila Rahimi, Nate Poppen and Peter Marzano discuss the most recent free agent signings and what it means for the Chicago Cubs. They break down Rhys Hoskins signing with the Brewers (:30). They also lament the Cubs missing out on relief pitcher Robert...
-
Thoughts on Cody Bellinger future with Cubs, Christopher Morel and more with Maddie Lee
On a post-convention edition of the Cubs Talk Podcast, Leila Rahimi, Peter Marzano and James Neveau welcome Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times to talk about the North Siders. Cody Bellinger's future is first up to bat, with Shota Imanaga's pitch arsenal and potential adjustments to big league…
more -
BREAKING NEWS: Shōta Imanaga reportedly signs with Cubs
On a special "THEY FINALLY DID A THING" edition of Cubs Talk, Leila Rahimi, James Neveau and Nate Poppen break down the reported signing of Shōta Imanaga (00:33). They examine how his pitch arsenal could play in the big leagues and if they have any concerns before wrapping up with a quick chat...
-
New year, same quiet offseason for the Chicago Cubs
It may be 2024, but things are feeling an awful lot like 2023 for the Cubs, as Leila Rahimi, James Neveau and Peter Marzano talk about the lack of action on the free-agent market for the North Siders. The trio talks about some minor league pitching signings, including Colten Brewer, but also...
-
Bueller? Bueller? Evaluating Cody Bellinger’s status as Cubs continue quiet offseason
On this episode of the Cubs Talk podcast, Leila Rahimi, James Neveau and Peter Marzano discuss the Cubs' continued quiet offseason. With the Toronto Blue Jays and New York Yankees adding outfielders, are the Cubs the best fit for Cody Bellinger, and how much could his contract cost? The trio also...
-
What is taking so long in MLB free agency, trade market?
Cubs fans are understandably feeling a bit Scrooge-like this holiday season, with the team biding their time before making any sort of freea gent moves. Leila Rahimi, Peter Marzano, Nate Poppen and James Neveau discuss the team's quiet offseason and discuss whether they're making a mistake in not...
-
How do Cubs proceed after Shohei Ohtani signs with Dodgers?
In this episode of the Cubs Talk Podcast, James Neveau, Peter Marzano and Nate Poppen react to Shohei Ohtani landing with the Dodgers. Are the Dodgers the team to beat in the National League? What should the Cubs' priorities be after missing out on the superstar? Is a reunion with Cody Bellinger...
-
Winter meetings a strikeout for Cubs, most of MLB
On a new Cubs Talk Podcast, Leila Rahimi and James Neveau break down the news, or lack thereof, from baseball's winter meetings. With Shohei Ohtani still making a decision, the Cubs seemingly out on Juan Soto and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and still inquiring about Tyler Glasnow, there is plenty of...
-
Recapping our favorite moments from the Cubs’ 2023 season
In a special Cubs Talk podcast, James Neveau and Peter Marzano kick their feet up by the fire and recap their favorite moments from the 2023 season. Christopher Morel's walkoff against the White Sox, Ian Happ's defensive heroics against the Brewers, and Mike Tauchman's incredible catch against…
more -
Will the Cubs make massive free agent splash at Winter Meetings?
Leila Rahimi, Nate Poppen and James Neveau have your full preview of baseball's Winter Meetings. The trio discusses the latest news connecting Shohei Ohtani to the Cubs and whether they think the biggest free agent in baseball history could actually call the North Side home (1:31). Later, they...
-
First impressions of new Cubs’ manager Craig Counsell
On this episode of the Cubs Talk Podcast, Leila Rahimi and Peter Marzano recap Craig Counsell’s introductory press conference. They also discuss Craig Counsell finishing second in the NL Manager of the Year voting and how he can impact the Cubs in 2024. They also talk about who they think are the...
-
More Craig Counsell reaction, sour grapes from Brewers’ ownership and our MLB free agency wish lists
On this episode of the Cubs Talk podcast, Leila Rahimi, James Neveau and Nate Poppen offer their thoughts on Craig Counsell, and what it tells us about the Cubs (1:21). They also discuss Jed Hoyer's ruthless approach and what the future holds for David Ross (8:59). The trio gets into salty…
more -
Craig Counsell in, David Ross out in stunning managerial move
On an emergency edition of the Cubs Talk podcast, James Neveau and Peter Marzano react to the Cubs' hiring of Craig Counsell as their new manager. They discuss what it means for the franchise, as well as whether the Cubs did right by David Ross in firing him. Leila Rahimi discusses the move with...
-
MLB free agency looms, and Cody Bellinger wins NL Comeback Player of the Year
On this episode of the Cubs Talk podcast, Leila Rahimi and James Neveau discuss the return of former hitting coach John Mallee. The duo also discusses upcoming free agency, and how the team should approach their spending when it comes to Jeimer Candelario and others. Cody Bellinger's NL Comeback...
-
As Cubs negotiate Kyle Hendricks’ extension, should team consider other options?
On this episode of the Cubs Talk Podcast, Leila Rahimi, James Neveau, Nate Poppen and Peter Marzano discuss the MLB playoffs and a pair of Game 7's in the LCS (1:26). They then transition to Cubs news, with Kyle Hendricks negotiating an extension with the team (10:51), and whether the Cubs should...
-
Cubs snag Gold Glove noms, Craig Breslow interviews with Boston, Kyle Schwarber sets playoff record
On this episode of the Cubs Talk Podcast, Leila Rahimi, Peter Marzano and Nate Poppen discuss the Cubs' Gold Glove nominations (1:16). They also talk about Cubs' Assistant General Manager/Vice President and Director of Pitching Craig Breslow interviewing for the Red Sox General Manager position...
-
How will Cubs’ approach arbitration for Patrick Wisdom, Nick Madrigal and more
In the latest edition of the Cubs Talk Podcast, James Neveau, Peter Marzano and Nate Poppen discuss the nine Cubs players eligible for arbitration. While Justin Steele will naturally be back, what about Patrick Wisdom, Nick Madrigal, Mark Leiter and more? Later, the guys discuss the MLB playoffs,...
-
Offseason rumor mill begins with Cody Bellinger, Pete Alonso talk
In today's Cubs Talk podcast, the crew discusses the team's late season collapse. They also react to Jed Hoyer's comments on David Ross and Cody Bellinger, and ponder reports linking Pete Alonso and the Cubs. 1:30 - Cubs end of season collapse and missing the playoffs 21:42 - The crew reacts to…
more -
Will the Cubs reach the playoffs, and who should they want to take on?
In this episode of the Cubs Talk podcast, Leila Rahimi, James Neveau and Peter Marzano break down the final week of the 2023 season for the Cubs. Can they reach the playoffs? Who will help get them there? Who would be the ideal opponent for a wild card matchup? Those topics and much more as we...
-
Should David Ross’ job be on the line if Cubs don’t make playoffs?
The Cubs have lost 8 of their last 10 games, including their most recent three-game series loss to the Diamondback. On the latest Cubs Talk Podcast, Leila Rehimi and James Neveau break down what went wrong during that series. Later, they debate if they think the Cubs can save their season and…
more -
Playoff chase update, Justin Steele’s Cy Young case and more
In a jam-packed Cubs Talk, we examine the Cubs' playoff chances with 15 games left, Justin Steele's chances at a Cy Young Award, and the debut of Pete Crow-Armstrong. The group also discusses speculation of Carter Hawkins and a leadership role with the Red Sox.
About this show
The Cubs Talk Podcast breaks down all things baseball on the North Side. Host Leila Rahimi, James Neveau, and Nate Poppen bring insider perspectives, regular player interviews, and news updates during the team’s pursuit of another championship. New episodes release every Wednesday morning.
Hosted by
Chicago Sports Network