Craig Counsell is making all the right moves as Cubs win 5 straight

Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show14mApril 20, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

The Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show kicks off with excitement over the Chicago Cubs' five-game winning streak, celebrating their sweep of the Mets and discussing the team's recent momentum. Hosts Mark Grody and Marshall Harris reflect on the roller-coaster nature of Cubs fandom, with Grody embracing the emotional highs and lows while Harris adopts a more measured, analytical perspective. A central theme of the episode is praise for manager Craig Counsell, whose strategic moves—like pinch-hitting with Carson Kelly and managing player health—have been pivotal in the team's success. The hosts contrast the 2026 Cubs' improved bench depth, thanks to offseason moves like signing Alex Bregman and acquiring multiple impactful bench players, with the limitations of the 2025 roster. They also humorously address a mix-up about Great America’s location, correcting Libertyville to Gurney, and celebrate the engaged fan base that keeps them accountable. As the Cubs face tougher competition ahead—including the Phillies, Dodgers, and Padres—the hosts emphasize that the real test is just beginning.

Key Takeaways
1

Craig Counsell is making smart, impactful managerial decisions that are contributing directly to the Cubs' five-game winning streak.

2

The Cubs' improved bench depth in 2026—thanks to offseason moves—allows for better strategic flexibility and more effective pinch-hitting.

3

Managerial decisions like pinch-hitting with Carson Kelly against left-handed pitchers and managing player workload show a more nuanced, data-informed approach.

4

Fan engagement is strong, with listeners actively correcting on-air errors, highlighting a sharp and attentive audience.

5

The Cubs are not yet in first place, but their recent performance suggests they are building momentum and improving consistency.

Chapters
0:00
2 min

Welcome & Who's Your Guy? Launch

The hosts kick off the show with excitement for the 'Who's Your Guy?' segment, a draft-week feature where listeners call in to recommend players they want to learn more about, supported by resources like Dane Brugler's 'The Beast'.

2:00
3 min

Cubs' Winning Streak & Managerial Praise

Craig Counsell is making all the right moves as Cubs win 5 straight.

Highlight
5:00
4 min

Bench Depth & Strategic Flexibility

The difference between Michael Bush in 2025 and Moises Ballesteros in 2026 is very simple.

Highlight
9:00
3 min

Fan Engagement & On-Air Corrections

The hosts reflect on the lively interaction with listeners, including a humorous correction about Great America’s location (Gurney vs. Libertyville), and celebrate the audience’s attentiveness and willingness to speak up.

12:00
3 min

Looking Ahead: Tough Road Ahead

The hosts acknowledge the upcoming challenges, including games against the Phillies, Dodgers, and Padres, and emphasize that the Cubs’ current success is just the beginning of a tougher stretch.

High-Impact Quotes
Craig Counsell is making all the right moves as Cubs win 5 straight.
Mark Grody2:15
Viral: 85.0
The difference between Michael Bush in 2025 and Moises Ballesteros in 2026 is very simple.
Marshall Harris10:07
Viral: 78.0
I don't need to ride the roller coaster. I know how the coaster goes. I know how it's going to end.
Marshall Harris4:35
Viral: 75.0
Speakers

Hosts

Mark GrodyMarshall Harris
Topics Discussed
Cubs Winning Streak95%Craig Counsell's Management90%Bench Depth & Roster Construction85%Fan Engagement & Listener Corrections75%Cubs' Upcoming Schedule70%Draft Week Features60%Player Performance: Moises Ballesteros55%Chicago Bears Events50%
People & Brands

Chicago Cubs

other

28xPositive

Marshall Harris

person

25xNeutral

Mark Grody

person

24xNeutral

Craig Counsell

person

12xPositive

Moises Ballesteros

person

8xPositive

Carson Kelly

person

6xPositive

Chicago Bears

other

5xNeutral

Libertyville

place

5xNeutral

Michael Conforto

person

4xPositive

Six Flags Great America

other

4xNeutral

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