Colin Rea shows he's a viable option in Cubs' rotation in a win over Rays (Hour 1)
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The Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show dives into the Cubs' recent 2-1 series win over the Rays, highlighting standout performances from pitchers Colin Rea and Javier Assad, who combined for 13 innings, one run, and just three hits allowed. The hosts praise the Cubs' offensive resurgence, particularly Nico Hoerner’s leadoff performance and the team’s ability to manufacture runs, calling it a crucial building block for the season. They also discuss the team’s depth and flexibility, especially with Cade Horton sidelined, and express optimism about the return of Seiya Suzuki. The conversation then shifts to the NBA, where the hosts condemn the widespread tanking culture, citing the Kings’ controversial foul call in a game against the Warriors as a tipping point. They argue that the league’s inconsistent enforcement of penalties—fines only for players, not teams—undermines integrity. Draymond Green’s call for team fines is highlighted as a necessary step. The segment concludes with a deep dive into the Oklahoma City Thunder’s successful rebuild under Sam Presti, using it as a blueprint for the Bulls, who are criticized for lacking draft capital and long-term strategic patience. The hosts stress that sustainable rebuilding requires embracing short-term pain and accumulating assets, something the Bulls have failed to do consistently.
Colin Rea and Javier Assad delivered strong starts, proving they are viable rotation options for the Cubs.
Nico Hoerner’s leadoff performance is now a permanent fixture and a key part of the Cubs' offensive strategy.
The Cubs’ ability to win against a competitive Rays team signals positive momentum heading into a tough stretch.
NBA tanking has reached epidemic levels, with 10 teams actively trying to lose, creating a competitive race at the bottom.
The Kings’ intentional foul on Seth Curry highlights the need for team-level penalties in the NBA.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Sponsor Intro & Show Launch
The episode begins with a sponsor message from Jewel Osco and a disclaimer about the hosts' opinions, followed by a brief discussion on NBA tanking culture.
Cubs' Series Win & Pitching Breakout
“Colin Ray can pitch. He's a viable option not over the course of a season for 30 plus starts but as a swing guy he's one of the top swing options if not the top swing option in the major leagues.”
Offensive Momentum & Lineup Insights
The discussion turns to the Cubs' offensive improvements, with emphasis on Nico Hoerner’s leadoff role, productive outs, and the team’s ability to score in key moments.
NBA Tanking Crisis & the Kings-Warriors Game
“Losing is winning. Up is down. Down is up. Peace is weak. War is strength. You get the idea. It's not that dystopian, but we're almost there.”
Draymond Green’s Call for Team Penalties
“Why isn't it the same? Everybody loves money. So, you know, the punishment for players is always let's take the money. Well, now it becomes time to punish teams and all of a sudden nobody don't know what to do.”
“Losing is winning. Up is down. Down is up. Peace is weak. War is strength. You get the idea. It's not that dystopian, but we're almost there.”
“Why isn't it the same? Everybody loves money. So, you know, the punishment for players is always let's take the money. Well, now it becomes time to punish teams and all of a sudden nobody don't know what to do.”
“Colin Ray can pitch. He's a viable option not over the course of a season for 30 plus starts but as a swing guy he's one of the top swing options if not the top swing option in the major leagues.”
Hosts
Guest
NBA
organization
Javier Assad
person
Chicago Bulls
other
Colin Rea
person
Oklahoma City Thunder
other
Sam Presti
person
Nico Hoerner
person
Kings-Warriors Game
other
Michael Reinsdorf
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
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