Are the Pirates the toughest test yet for the Cubs in their young season? (Hour 1)
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “Are the Pirates the toughest test yet for the Cubs in their young season? (Hour 1)” inside PodZeus.
The Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show broadcasts live from Circa Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, blending sports talk with vivid descriptions of the resort's luxurious amenities, including its massive pools, HD golf coverage at Stadium Swim, and vibrant atmosphere. The hosts reflect on the transition from March Madness to the Masters, highlighting the charm of golf season and the excitement of the current leaderboard, especially with Rory McIlroy and Sam Burns leading. They then pivot to a deep dive on the Cubs' upcoming series against the Pirates, debating whether it's the toughest test of the young season. While acknowledging the Pirates' strong team batting average and solid ERA, the hosts argue that the Cleveland Guardians' series was more challenging due to weather and competitive intensity. They emphasize the importance of the Cubs' first division series, the return of Seiya Suzuki, and the need for consistent offensive production. The discussion extends to lineup strategy, with debates over Nico Hoerner batting leadoff and Shota Imanaga's performance. Later, the show shifts to NFL draft analysis with Nate Tice, who discusses the Bears' potential needs at offensive tackle, defensive line, and linebacker, advocating for strategic trades and a focus on scheme fit. The episode closes with Mike Palm discussing betting trends at the Masters and critiquing the Chicago Sky's handling of Angel Reese, arguing that the organization missed a branding opportunity despite her star power.
The Pirates' strong offensive and pitching stats make them a significant test, but not the toughest of the season due to the challenging weather and competition from the Guardians.
Seiya Suzuki's return and consistent offensive performance from the Cubs' lineup are critical for their early-season success.
Nico Hoerner's leadoff role is supported by his on-base percentage and plate discipline, making him a strong candidate for the top of the order.
Shota Imanaga's effectiveness hinges on minimizing multi-run home runs, not just solo shots, to maintain his impact.
The Bears should prioritize addressing the offensive line and defensive depth in the draft, with a focus on scheme fit over raw athleticism.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Live from Circa Resort & Casino: Vegas Vibes and Show Intro
“This doesn't qualify. I can tell you, having been a founding member of Saturday Suckage with Steve Rosenblum, this right here where we are chilling in a cabana at Stadium Swim with the – I'm sorry, guys. I'm overstimulated already.”
The Masters and the Transition from March Madness
The hosts discuss the shift from NCAA March Madness to the Masters golf tournament, praising the charm and unpredictability of the event. They highlight Rory McIlroy and Sam Burns as top contenders and reflect on the emotional highs and lows of the recent Final Four, including Illinois' run and Arizona's collapse.
Cubs vs. Pirates: Is This the Toughest Test Yet?
“You know why? Because it's their first series against a division opponent. And here's what we know. Last year, the Cubs finished behind the Brewers in the standings. One reason why is the Brewers had a better in-division record than the Cubs did.”
Lineup Strategy and Shota Imanaga's Role
The hosts analyze potential lineup changes, advocating for Nico Hoerner at leadoff and discussing Shota Imanaga's performance. They debate the impact of giving up solo versus multi-run home runs and the importance of protecting top hitters with strong protection in the lineup.
NFL Draft Analysis with Nate Tice
“I think the strength of it is, but it's I'd rather be in this area from 25 to 60 than have a maybe a pick in the top 12 in the weirdest way because there's a lot of blemishes even with the top guys.”
“I don't want to criticize Tom Lloyd. He's a great recruiter. He's a very nice man, and he cleaned up a very dirty program that Sean Miller left in Arizona. But he can't coach. He cannot – he's not an X and O guy.”
“The problem also is with her, they're going to get a low first round draft pick the next two years because they're getting. You know what I mean? They're getting the Dream's pick.”
“You know why? Because it's their first series against a division opponent. And here's what we know. Last year, the Cubs finished behind the Brewers in the standings. One reason why is the Brewers had a better in-division record than the Cubs did.”
Hosts
Guests
Circa Resort and Casino
organization
Chicago Cubs
other
Marshall Harris
person
Mark Grody
person
Layla Rahimi
person
Mike Palm
person
Chicago Bears
other
Pittsburgh Pirates
other
Nate Tice
person
Seiya Suzuki
person
Ian Happ discusses his hot start, Nico Hoerner's contract extension
Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show • 15m • 3/31/2026
Edward Cabrera shines in his Cubs debut
Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show • 15m • 3/31/2026
Examining the Bears’ receiver void
Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show • 18m • 3/31/2026
5 On It: How confident are you in what Edward Cabrera can bring to the Cubs?
Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show • 18m • 3/31/2026
Will White Sox rookie Munetaka Murakami hit 40 home runs this season?
Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show • 12m • 3/31/2026
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “Are the Pirates the toughest test yet for the Cubs in their young season? (Hour 1)” inside PodZeus.
Start discovering podcast insights today
Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.
No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime