Craig Counsell continues to push all the right buttons (Hour 3)
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The third hour of the Mully & Haugh Show dives into a mix of baseball and sports management topics, beginning with a deep dive into the Dodgers' unique 14th pitcher exception due to Shohei Ohtani, sparking a broader discussion on MLB's outdated 13-13 roster rule and its impact on offense and defense. Hosts Bruce Levine and KC Johnson debate the rise of 'boom or bust' offensive stars like Yoán Moncada and Seiya Suzuki, highlighting how their patience at the plate and home run power are reshaping team strategies. The conversation shifts to the Cubs' bullpen decisions, with strong support for Colin Ryan’s role as a starter despite his potential value in relief. On the NBA front, the Bulls’ executive search is analyzed, with candidates like Austin Brown, Dennis Lindsay, and Matt Lloyd under scrutiny. The absence of clarity around Billy Donovan’s future is a major point of concern, though the hosts acknowledge his strong reputation and the precedent for coaches remaining involved in front-office roles. The Bears’ stadium bill faces new opposition from the Illinois Teachers Union, raising concerns about school funding, adding a political wrinkle to an otherwise optimistic outlook on a breakthrough. The episode closes with a preview of NFL draft coverage with Mike Florio.
The 13-13 MLB roster rule is outdated and creates imbalance, especially for teams like the Dodgers with dual-threat players like Shohei Ohtani.
Players like Seiya Suzuki are redefining offensive strategies with high walk rates, home run power, and minimal contact, creating a 'boom or bust' dynamic.
Colin Ryan’s value as a starter outweighs his potential bullpen role, given his 20-11 record and low-key excellence.
The Bulls’ executive search is wide-ranging, with experienced candidates from diverse backgrounds, including agent Austin Brown.
Billy Donovan’s prolonged silence on his future is puzzling, though his legacy and collaborative style remain respected.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
The 13-13 Rule and the Ohtani Exception
“You must have 13 of this type and 13 of the other. That's it. You can't change it until September when you can have call-ups and you can have one more of each. I don't understand it.”
The Rise of the Boom-or-Bust Hitter
“He either walks, strikes out, or hits a home run. The idea that he doesn't chase. He's not up there swinging wildly. There is a discipline to what he's doing even though he strikes out so much.”
Cubs' Rotation and Bullpen Strategy
The hosts evaluate Colin Ryan’s role, arguing that his 20-11 record as a starter makes him too valuable to move to the bullpen, despite the team’s injury concerns. His low-key demeanor and high effectiveness are highlighted as key assets.
Bulls' Executive Search and Billy Donovan's Future
“I don't find it to be that big. I don't think we said dumb. I don't think we said dumber limits of the list, no.”
The Bears' Stadium Bill and Political Hurdles
“It's a little spanner in the works for the 12th hour. Yes, it's late.”
“He either walks, strikes out, or hits a home run. The idea that he doesn't chase. He's not up there swinging wildly. There is a discipline to what he's doing even though he strikes out so much.”
“You must have 13 of this type and 13 of the other. That's it. You can't change it until September when you can have call-ups and you can have one more of each. I don't understand it.”
“You can have the pitcher, catcher and Murakami and the result is a walk, a strikeout or a home run. You can just bring them all in.”
Hosts
Guests
bruce levine
person
kc johnson
person
cubs
other
chicago bulls
other
chicago bears
other
billy donovan
person
craig counsell
person
white sox
other
shohei ohtani
person
colin ray
person
Pick 6: Bulls release Jaden Ivey after his anti-LGBTQ comments
Mully & Haugh Show • 21m • 3/31/2026
Pick 6: Who's the best coach and player left in the NCAA Tournament?
Mully & Haugh Show • 15m • 3/31/2026
Bruce Levine talks Ian Happ's hot hitting and future with Cubs
Mully & Haugh Show • 10m • 3/31/2026
Roger Powell likes Illinois' chance to beat UConn
Mully & Haugh Show • 14m • 3/31/2026
Mike Florio shares insight on his interview with Kevin Warren
Mully & Haugh Show • 17m • 3/31/2026
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