5 On It & Craig Counsell talks Seiya Suzuki's return (Hour 3)
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The Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show kicks off its live broadcast from Stadium Swim at Circa Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, diving into five key topics ahead of the Cubs' home series against the Pirates. The hosts debate whether the Cubs must sweep the Pirates without their ace Paul Skenes, ultimately concluding it's not a 'must-sweep' but a strong opportunity to build momentum. They then turn to Seiya Suzuki's long-awaited return, with spirited predictions on his home run total—Mark Brody betting 28, Layla Rahimi taking the over. The discussion shifts to roster moves, including Dylan Carlson’s DFA and Pete Crow-Armstrong’s center field role, with the hosts agreeing Suzuki is the most viable option despite his outfield limitations. The show also previews the Masters golf tournament, with mixed picks between Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and a surprise call for Justin Rose. The episode closes with a lively lineup breakdown and Craig Counsell’s insights on Suzuki’s return and Phil Maton’s knee injury, emphasizing cautious reintroduction and lineup flexibility. The atmosphere is upbeat, blending sports talk with the vibrant energy of Las Vegas.
The Cubs don’t need a must-sweep against the Pirates, but a 2-3 series win is a strong goal.
Seiya Suzuki’s return is a major boost; expect 28–35 home runs depending on health and usage.
Suzuki is the best available option for center field despite limited experience there.
Phil Maton’s knee tendonitis is not an arm issue, but he’ll need a cautious return to avoid further strain.
The Cubs’ depth allows for flexibility in lineup construction, especially with multiple viable outfielders.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Live from Las Vegas: Five On It & Cubs Pre-Game Buzz
The show opens live from Stadium Swim at Circa Resort and Casino, setting the scene with a vibrant Vegas atmosphere and introducing the five topics of the day, including the upcoming Cubs-Pirates series and Seiya Suzuki’s return.
Must-Sweep or Just Win? The Pirates Series Debate
The hosts discuss whether the Cubs must sweep the Pirates without Paul Skenes, concluding it’s not a must-sweep but a valuable opportunity to build momentum and win two out of three games.
Seiya Suzuki’s Return: Home Run Predictions & Expectations
“I'm going to say he's going to hit 28 home runs this year for the Chicago Cubs. Can I take the over on that and make a personal wager with you right now? Absolutely.”
Roster Moves & Center Field Conundrum
“If it's not Saya, then tell me who it is. I'm struggling with that. Who are the candidates? Except for Sayah and Matt Shaw.”
Masters Golf Predictions & Vegas Vibes
“It's the entire stadium swim experience. And, you know, being outside and enjoying my time outside because we can't always do that at this time of year.”
“We're not going to stop throwing... This is really at the highest level when it starts to bug them, when the push-off gets max effort push-off when it starts to bother them.”
“I'm going to say he's going to hit 28 home runs this year for the Chicago Cubs. Can I take the over on that and make a personal wager with you right now? Absolutely.”
“If it's not Saya, then tell me who it is. I'm struggling with that. Who are the candidates? Except for Sayah and Matt Shaw.”
Hosts
Guest
Seiya Suzuki
person
Craig Counsell
person
Circa Resort and Casino
place
Stadium Swim
place
Pete Crow-Armstrong
person
Rory McIlroy
person
Ian Happ
person
Phil Maton
person
Scottie Scheffler
person
Matt Shaw
person
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