Jon Heyman still thinks the Cubs need another starter

Mully & Haugh Show12mApril 16, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

The Mully & Haugh Show discusses the current state of the Chicago Cubs and their upcoming series against the struggling New York Mets, highlighting the Cubs' inconsistent offense despite recent offensive outbursts in Philadelphia. Hosts express concern over the team's depth, particularly after losing starting pitcher Kate Horton for the season and relief pitcher Porter Hodge to UCL surgery, raising questions about the league-wide spike in pitcher injuries. They analyze the root causes—increased velocity and aggressive breaking ball usage—and debate whether the Cubs should pursue a veteran starter like Lucas Giolito, who is now reportedly open to a one-year deal. The conversation shifts to broader trends in MLB, including the controversial early long-term contracts handed to young players like Kevin McConaughey and Cole Emerson, with skepticism about whether such deals represent shrewd business or overreaction. The Mets emerge as the most disappointing team due to their $360M+ payroll and abysmal offensive stats, ranking near the bottom in OPS, slugging, and on-base percentage. The hosts reflect on the irony of the Mets' struggles despite their star-studded roster and high expectations.

Key Takeaways
1

The Cubs need another starting pitcher after losing Horton and Hodge to season-ending injuries.

2

Pitcher injuries across MLB are rising, likely due to increased velocity and aggressive breaking ball usage.

3

Lucas Giolito is a potential target for the Cubs, but he's now open to a one-year deal after previously seeking two years.

4

Early long-term contracts for young players like McConaughey and Emerson are risky and may not reflect true value.

5

The Mets are the most disappointing team in baseball despite having the second-highest payroll.

Chapters
0:00
2 min

Opening: Mets' Losing Streak and Cubs' Offense

The hosts open with concern over the Mets' eight-game losing streak and their poor offensive performance, while noting the Cubs' recent offensive surge in Philadelphia.

2:00
2 min

Luis Robert and Cubs' Defensive Strength

Discussion of Luis Robert's limited playing time due to load management and his strong defensive play, along with praise for the Cubs' overall defensive depth.

4:00
2 min

Shota Imanaga's Resurgence and Team Defense

The hosts analyze Shota Imanaga's return to form and praise the Cubs' elite defensive unit, while acknowledging inconsistent offensive production.

6:00
2 min

Injury Crisis and League-Wide Pitcher Concerns

Why are so many injuries going on around baseball? Is there anything – we've asked this question at various points a thousand different times.

Highlight
8:00
2 min

Giolito as a Potential Cubs Acquisition

He needs to do a make good, and obviously he's been throwing, but he's not going to be ready right away.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
The Mets are 29th in OPS. They're 28th or 29th in slugging. They're 29th in on base. I mean, that's pretty pathetic for a team with a... payroll of over $360 million.
Mully10:57
Viral: 85.0
I remember when people look at me as Dr. Doom because it seems like I joined the road trips in progress when they've already begun as a disaster.
Jon Heyman12:04
Viral: 75.0
He needs to do a make good, and obviously he's been throwing, but he's not going to be ready right away.
Haugh6:44
Viral: 70.0
Speakers

Hosts

MullyHaugh

Guest

Jon Heyman
Topics Discussed
Mets' Offensive Struggles90%Team Payroll vs. Performance88%Cubs Starting Pitching Needs85%MLB Pitcher Injuries80%Lucas Giolito Free Agency78%Long-Term Contracts for Young Players75%Cubs Defensive Strength65%Load Management in Baseball60%
People & Brands

Chicago Cubs

other

18xNeutral

New York Mets

other

15xNegative

Lucas Giolito

person

6xNeutral

Luis Robert

person

5xPositive

Jon Heyman

person

5xNeutral

Dodgers

other

4xNeutral

Shota Imanaga

person

4xPositive

Red Sox

other

4xNeutral

Kate Horton

person

3xNegative

Freddie Peralta

person

2xPositive

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