5 On It: Should Nico Hoerner be the Cubs' leadoff hitter all the time?

Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show17mApril 9, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

The episode opens with a spirited debate on whether Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner should be permanently entrenched as the leadoff hitter, with host Leila Rahimi passionately arguing that his career leadoff stats—.285 batting average, .333 OBP, .396 slugging, and a 730 OPS—demonstrate consistent, high-level performance in the top spot. She highlights his speed, approach, and recent success, calling for stability in the lineup. Marshall Harris counters with a nuanced take on the Cubs' pitching rotation, praising Javier Assad’s dominant relief appearance and arguing he’s the most valuable pitcher in the recent series win over the Reds, especially given his uncertain role coming into the season. The conversation shifts to the Bulls’ Patrick Williams, who scored 20 points in a game shortly after the front office that drafted him was fired, sparking a discussion on symbolism and player performance under pressure. The hosts then speculate on the White Sox’s future, predicting a $100 million contract will come in 2028, possibly under new owner Justin Ishbia. Finally, they engage in a lighthearted, detailed mock dinner debate at Circa Resort, dissecting menu items, portioning, and social etiquette when a boss is paying—ranging from lobster bisque to campfire s'mores.

Key Takeaways
1

Nico Hoerner’s career leadoff stats (.285/.333/.396) make him a strong candidate for permanent leadoff duty.

2

Javier Assad’s dominant 5.2 innings of scoreless, hitless baseball earned him MVP honors in the Cubs’ recent series win.

3

Patrick Williams’ 20-point game post-front office firing may symbolize a turning point in his career.

4

The White Sox are expected to hand out their first $100M contract by 2028, likely under new ownership.

5

When a boss is paying, order something slightly better than usual but avoid excessive splurging to maintain social balance.

Chapters
0:00
5 min

Should Nico Hoerner Be the Cubs' Permanent Leadoff Hitter?

If the leadoff batter is set, that makes a lot of everything else make sense.

Highlight
5:00
5 min

Who Was the Most Valuable Pitcher in the Cubs' Series Win?

He stayed stretched out like we talked about and then prove why you need to be considered and trusted on this team.

Highlight
10:00
5 min

Patrick Williams' 20-Point Game and Front Office Fallout

The hosts reflect on Patrick Williams’ 20-point game coinciding with the firing of the front office that drafted him, discussing symbolism, player accountability, and the pressure of expectations. They predict he’ll score 25 points with a double-double against the rebuilding Wizards.

15:00
5 min

When Will the White Sox Give Out Their First $100M Contract?

The hosts speculate that the White Sox will hand out their first $100M contract by 2028, likely under new owner Justin Ishbia, despite Jerry Reinsdorf’s reluctance to spend. They debate the timeline and ownership dynamics.

20:00
10 min

Dinner Etiquette When Your Boss Is Paying

You want to do something a little bit better than what you would normally do. But you don't want to do too much because then it is rude.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
If the leadoff batter is set, that makes a lot of everything else make sense.
Leila Rahimi0:56
Viral: 85.0
You want to do something a little bit better than what you would normally do. But you don't want to do too much because then it is rude.
Leila Rahimi13:46
Viral: 80.0
He stayed stretched out like we talked about and then prove why you need to be considered and trusted on this team.
Marshall Harris5:19
Viral: 78.0
Speakers

Hosts

Leila RahimiMarshall Harris

Guest

Danny Parkins
Topics Discussed
Cubs Leadoff Hitter Decision95%Restaurant Etiquette and Social Norms90%Pitching Performance and Value88%Player Performance and Front Office Changes82%Team Ownership and Financial Strategy78%MLB Team Contract Trends75%Player Development and Consistency70%Sports Analytics and Stat Evaluation65%
People & Brands

Nico Hoerner

person

12xPositive

Cubs

other

10xPositive

Javier Assad

person

8xPositive

Patrick Williams

person

7xPositive

White Sox

other

6xNeutral

Chicago Bulls

other

5xNeutral

Washington Wizards

other

4xNeutral

Jerry Reinsdorf

person

3xNeutral

Justin Ishbia

person

3xNeutral

Circa Resort and Casino

place

3xPositive

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