Craig Counsell is making all the right moves as Cubs win 5 straight
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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.
Craig Counsell is making smart, impactful managerial decisions that are contributing directly to the Cubs' five-game winning streak.
The Cubs' improved bench depth in 2026—thanks to offseason moves—allows for better strategic flexibility and more effective pinch-hitting.
Managerial decisions like pinch-hitting with Carson Kelly against left-handed pitchers and managing player workload show a more nuanced, data-informed approach.
Fan engagement is strong, with listeners actively correcting on-air errors, highlighting a sharp and attentive audience.
The Cubs are not yet in first place, but their recent performance suggests they are building momentum and improving consistency.
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'.
Cubs' Winning Streak & Managerial Praise
“Craig Counsell is making all the right moves as Cubs win 5 straight.”
Bench Depth & Strategic Flexibility
“The difference between Michael Bush in 2025 and Moises Ballesteros in 2026 is very simple.”
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.
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.
“Craig Counsell is making all the right moves as Cubs win 5 straight.”
“The difference between Michael Bush in 2025 and Moises Ballesteros in 2026 is very simple.”
“I don't need to ride the roller coaster. I know how the coaster goes. I know how it's going to end.”
Hosts
Chicago Cubs
other
Marshall Harris
person
Mark Grody
person
Craig Counsell
person
Moises Ballesteros
person
Carson Kelly
person
Chicago Bears
other
Libertyville
place
Michael Conforto
person
Six Flags Great America
other
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