Bruce Levine talks Cubs' win over Rays, White Sox getting swept

Mully & Haugh Show13mApril 9, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

The Mully & Haugh Show dives into the early-season struggles of both Chicago baseball teams, with the Cubs showing signs of momentum despite being in last place after 12 games, while the White Sox are reeling from a sweep and ongoing bullpen and pitching depth issues. Bruce Levine highlights the Cubs' unexpected success from depth pitchers like Javier Assad and Colin Ray, who stepped up after injuries, and discusses the importance of sustainable pitching depth as the team looks to improve. He also examines roster decisions around returning star Seiya Suzuki and potential moves involving Dylan Carlson, Michael Conforto, and Matt Shaw. On the White Sox side, Levine critiques the team’s reliance on the opener strategy, arguing it undermines bullpen flexibility and reflects organizational indecision. He emphasizes the tension between player development and immediate competitiveness, especially with pitchers like Grant Taylor and Noah Schultz still being developed in the minors. The discussion also touches on injury timelines, including Kyle Teal’s rehab and Corey Lee’s potential return, underscoring the challenges of balancing long-term growth with short-term performance.

Key Takeaways
1

The Cubs' recent success stems from unexpected depth pitching, particularly from Javier Assad and Colin Ray, who stepped up in the absence of key starters.

2

Sustainable pitching depth remains a critical concern for the Cubs, especially with the potential for further injuries and the need to address roster spots when Seiya Suzuki returns.

3

The White Sox’s reliance on the opener strategy is undermining bullpen flexibility and exposing a lack of depth in their pitching staff.

4

Organizational indecision around player roles—like Grant Taylor’s development as a starter—reveals a tension between long-term player growth and immediate competitive needs.

5

Injury recovery timelines, such as Kyle Teal’s rehab and Seiya Suzuki’s bruised heel, are key factors in upcoming roster decisions and team strategy.

Chapters
0:00
2 min

Early Season Struggles: Cubs and White Sox in Last Place

The hosts open with a grim assessment of both Chicago teams being in last place after 12 games, setting the tone for a critical discussion on early-season performance and organizational challenges.

2:00
3 min

Cubs' Unexpected Momentum from Depth Pitching

The Cubs come home after winning that series having to feel very good about getting Seah Suzuki back. So the arrow's pointing up.

Highlight
5:00
4 min

Sustainability of Cubs' Pitching Depth and Roster Decisions

They're not sitting on their hands saying that they've had enough. They're out there looking for more pitching.

Highlight
9:00
3 min

White Sox's Bullpen Meltdown and Opener Strategy Critique

This is part of why I don't like that idea. It shows such organizational indecisiveness.

Highlight
12:00
2 min

Player Development vs. Immediate Competitiveness

Levine reflects on the broader tension between developing young talent and winning in the present, using Grant Taylor and Noah Schultz as examples of organizational priorities.

High-Impact Quotes
This is part of why I don't like that idea. It shows such organizational indecisiveness.
Bruce Levine6:47
Viral: 80.0
These games need to matter. I mean, I understand the development and you're not playing for a playoff spot but I don't think that you want to ignore that he's necessary.
Bruce Levine7:11
Viral: 78.0
The Cubs come home after winning that series having to feel very good about getting Seah Suzuki back. So the arrow's pointing up.
Bruce Levine1:04
Viral: 75.0
Speakers

Hosts

MullyHaugh

Guest

Bruce Levine
Topics Discussed
Cubs pitching depth and sustainability90%White Sox bullpen and opener strategy85%Player development vs. immediate wins80%Roster management and player returns75%Injury recovery timelines70%Organizational decision-making65%Cubs outfield roster decisions60%Minor league development and promotion55%
People & Brands

Bruce Levine

person

25xPositive

Cubs

other

20xNeutral

White Sox

other

18xNegative

Grant Taylor

person

8xPositive

Seiya Suzuki

person

7xPositive

Colin Ray

person

6xPositive

Rays

other

5xNeutral

Javier Assad

person

5xPositive

Dylan Carlson

person

4xNeutral

Michael Conforto

person

4xPositive

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