Are there early concerns for the Cubs? (Hour 2)
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The Mully & Haugh Show delves into early-season concerns for the Chicago Cubs following a 2-0 loss to the Angels, with hosts reflecting on the impact of extreme weather, a slow start, and the psychological weight of high expectations. They debate whether today's game is a 'must-win,' ultimately concluding it's not, but still important for momentum and morale. The conversation shifts to insights from Cubs pitching coach Tommy Haddavy, who offers a nuanced assessment of the rotation, particularly praising Shota Imanaga's improved stuff and composure despite a rough opening start. Haddavy emphasizes the importance of process over early results, especially after players' participation in the World Baseball Classic. The hosts also reflect on the broader changes in college basketball, including player empowerment through the transfer portal and NIL, using the Final Four as a backdrop to discuss how fleeting success can be in college sports. The episode balances baseball analysis with broader sports commentary, maintaining a tone of cautious optimism amid early-season struggles.
Early-season losses don't define the Cubs' season; perspective and process matter more than short-term results.
Pitching coach Tommy Haddavy sees Shota Imanaga's stuff as improved over 2024, suggesting a second look at his performance beyond the home run.
The World Baseball Classic may have left some pitchers, like Matthew Boyd, in 'midseason form' too early, affecting their consistency.
Player movement in college basketball is now driven by NIL and the transfer portal, making rosters unpredictable year-to-year.
Coaches and players carry emotional weight from close losses, especially in high-stakes moments like the Final Four.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Cubs' Early Struggles and the Weight of Expectation
The hosts open with the Cubs' 2-0 loss to the Angels in frigid conditions, discussing how weather and early-season results impact fan psychology and team morale. They debate whether today's game is a 'must-win,' ultimately concluding it's not, but still important for momentum.
Insights from Pitching Coach Tommy Hattavy
“I think the stuff, his understanding how he wants to use everything... With his mix, he is going to give up homers at times. That's just the type of pitcher he is.”
The Evolution of College Basketball and Player Empowerment
“There's just so much of that stuff that is sitting there waiting for us to sort of tear apart, have a good...”
Reassessing Shota Imanaga and the Path Forward
“When he says things like that, it will cause me to look at the next start by Shota a little differently.”
“I think the stuff, his understanding how he wants to use everything... With his mix, he is going to give up homers at times. That's just the type of pitcher he is.”
“I think the Velo's better. I think he's got a bigger repertoire and a bigger pitch mix. I think he's got more confidence in using all those pitches.”
“The biggest, I would say, like hangover if you want to call it from the WBC is you get thrown into this playoff atmosphere.”
Hosts
Guests
Chicago Cubs
other
Tommy Hattavy
person
Shota Imanaga
person
World Baseball Classic
other
Matthew Boyd
person
The Score
media
Final Four
other
Los Angeles Angels
other
104.3 The Score
media
Illinois Fighting Illini
other
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