Is Keaton Wagler the best player in the Final Four? (Hour 1)
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The Mully & Haugh Show kicks off with a lively discussion of Chicago sports, starting with the White Sox's 1-5 start and the rain-delayed home opener, which the hosts agree was the right move. They express deep concern over the team’s poor run differential, struggling pitching (especially Shane Smith), and lack of offensive production, while contrasting it with the Cubs' strong 3-3 start fueled by dominant performances from Matthew Boyd, Edward Cabrera, and Kyle Horton. Boyd’s bold decision to pitch in 39-degree weather without sleeves becomes a highlight, symbolizing resilience and mental toughness. The conversation shifts to the Bears’ fight for compensatory draft picks after Ian Cunningham’s hiring by the Falcons, with hosts praising their push to New York despite the NFL’s refusal to appeal. The stadium project update reveals no real progress, with the Bears still waiting on Illinois legislation, though George McCaskey’s emotional appeal about the family’s legacy is noted. The episode then pivots to the NCAA tournament, with a spirited debate on whether Keaton Wagler is the best player left in the Final Four. While acknowledging Wagler’s elite skill set and potential top-10 NBA draft stock, the hosts argue that Yaxel Lendenberg of Michigan is the more impactful player due to his leadership and clutch performances, especially given Michigan’s reliance on him. The segment ends with a scathing critique of the Bulls’ 140-point loss to the Pacers, highlighting their lack of defense, inconsistency, and the futility of betting on them despite their offensive firepower.
The White Sox’s 1-5 start and poor run differential signal deeper systemic issues beyond just bad luck.
Matthew Boyd’s sleeveless start in freezing weather was a powerful psychological statement and a sign of elite mental toughness.
The Bears’ decision to fight for compensatory picks in New York shows integrity and a commitment to NFL rules, even when the odds are against them.
The Cubs’ rotation depth—Cabrera, Horton, and Boyd—creates a strong foundation for a competitive season.
Yaxel Lendenberg, despite being older and less NBA-ready, is the most crucial player in the Final Four due to his leadership and dependability.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
White Sox Struggle Amid Rain and Poor Start
The hosts open with concern over the White Sox’s 1-5 record, poor run differential, and struggles on both offense and pitching, especially Shane Smith. They praise the decision to reschedule the home opener due to 100% rain forecast, calling it the right move for fans and team recovery.
Matthew Boyd’s Cold-Weather Heroics and Cubs’ Momentum
“It was like 20 degrees with the windchill yesterday. I heard Pat and Ron talking about it, and Zach, and it was just talking about it would build character. A game like this would build character.”
Bears Fight for Compensatory Picks and Stadium Drama
The hosts praise the Bears’ effort to appeal the NFL’s denial of compensatory picks after Ian Cunningham’s hire, calling it a principled stand. They also dissect the Bears’ stadium project, expressing skepticism about moving to Indiana and believing the team will stay in Arlington Heights.
Bulls’ Collapse and the Pacers’ Unlikely Dominance
“They gave up 100 points while you blinked. It was unbelievable.”
Final Four Debate: Is Keaton Wagler the Best Player?
“If he has a bad night on Saturday night, there is no shot. They beat Arizona. I totally disagree with that. Zero.”
“If he has a bad night on Saturday night, there is no shot. They beat Arizona. I totally disagree with that. Zero.”
“They gave up 100 points while you blinked. It was unbelievable.”
“I couldn't. I could not put a dime on the Bulls. If you forced me to make a bet, I'd have taken the Pacers because the trend is your friend.”
Hosts
White Sox
other
Cubs
other
Matthew Boyd
person
Bulls
other
Keaton Wagler
person
Mike Mulligan
person
David Haugh
person
Bears
other
Yaxel Lendenberg
person
Pacers
other
Pick 6: Bulls release Jaden Ivey after his anti-LGBTQ comments
Mully & Haugh Show • 21m • 3/31/2026
Pick 6: Who's the best coach and player left in the NCAA Tournament?
Mully & Haugh Show • 15m • 3/31/2026
Bruce Levine talks Ian Happ's hot hitting and future with Cubs
Mully & Haugh Show • 10m • 3/31/2026
Roger Powell likes Illinois' chance to beat UConn
Mully & Haugh Show • 14m • 3/31/2026
Mike Florio shares insight on his interview with Kevin Warren
Mully & Haugh Show • 17m • 3/31/2026
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