Old GMs, New Stars, and One Big What-If | S9E16

This week, the Team discusses the Cubs’ impressive early-season performance, having navigated the toughest schedule in baseball to sit six games over .500. The hosts marvel at the Cubs’ 9-0 thrashing of the Pirates, highlighting breakout performances from Carson Kelly and Pete Crow-Armstrong, while debating whether this team echoes the 2015 Cubs’ unexpected rise. Ron remains cautiously pessimistic, sticking to his 40-game assessment rule, while Elliot and Pete revel in the Cubs’ potential.

The conversation shifts to the Cardinals, with a nostalgic tribute to former GM Walt Jocketty, whose bold trades and veteran acquisitions shaped their 2000s success. The hosts reflect on his legacy, with Pete drawing parallels to Billy Beane’s "Moneyball" approach.

Elliott and Pete lament missed opportunities, specifically the Cubs’ failure to pursue Bryce Harper in 2018 and contrast that episode with rumors of the Cubs targeting Kyle Tucker for a massive extension.

Beyond baseball, the episode features "Ron’s Soccer Minute", recapping St. Louis City’s frustrating 2-2 draw against LAFC, and the debut of "Elliot’s Music Minute", where he shares his love for jam bands like Goose and his upcoming concert plans. Pete also teases a future "Travel Minute"…

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