A.J. Pierzynski talks White Sox calling up Noah Schultz, Cubs' cold start

Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show17mApril 13, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

In this episode of the Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show, former MLB All-Star catcher AJ Pierzynski joins the hosts to discuss the Chicago White Sox's recent call-up of prospect Noah Schultz, expressing cautious optimism about the left-handed pitcher's potential despite past struggles with walks and durability. Pierzynski critiques the White Sox's bullpen-heavy opener strategy, questioning its sustainability and effectiveness, especially with Grant Taylor being asked to pitch multiple innings. He emphasizes the critical need for starting pitching and notes the team’s offensive struggles, attributing them to early-season slumps rather than systemic issues, urging patience. On the Cubs' slow start, Pierzynski remains confident, citing their veteran core, strong pitching, and resilience, dismissing early-season panic as premature. He also praises the White Sox’s decision to retire Ozzie Guillen’s number, calling it long overdue. Pierzynski shares enthusiasm for the new ABS system, appreciating fan engagement, though he notes inconsistencies in strike zone measurement. He promotes his upcoming city cruises with former and current players, highlighting fan interaction and storytelling. The conversation ends with a lighthearted exchange about his podcast, Foul Territory, and the challenges of covering 30 teams.

Key Takeaways
1

Noah Schultz’s promotion to the White Sox is a promising move, but his success hinges on controlling walks and building stamina beyond the fifth inning.

2

The White Sox’s opener strategy, while effective in short bursts, is unsustainable long-term and reflects deeper starting pitching deficiencies.

3

Offensive struggles early in the season are normal; patience is key—teams like the White Sox and Cubs will likely adjust as the season progresses.

4

The Cubs remain a top contender in the NL Central despite a slow start, thanks to strong pitching and veteran leadership.

5

Ozzie Guillen’s number retirement is a long-overdue honor that celebrates his legacy as a player and manager.

…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
3 min

Opening Banter & Guest Intro

The hosts welcome AJ Pierzynski with a playful, energetic intro, referencing his music and Twitch presence, setting a fun tone for the episode.

3:00
3 min

Noah Schultz Call-Up & White Sox Pitching Concerns

If he can throw it over the plate, he's going to be tough. The biggest thing for him is the walks. That's always been a question for him.

Highlight
6:00
3 min

Grant Taylor as Opener: Strategy or Crisis?

If you want to make him a starter, why not make him a starter in spring training? Why are we trying to do it in the middle of the season?

Highlight
9:00
3 min

White Sox Offense: Slump or Systemic Failure?

Pierzynski addresses the White Sox’s poor offensive numbers, stressing that lineup shuffling won’t fix hitting issues—players must simply start producing.

12:00
3 min

Cubs’ Slow Start & NL Central Outlook

It's two weeks and it's cold out. Wind's blowing in at Wrigley. You guys can't have it blown out every day.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
If he can throw it over the plate, he's going to be tough. The biggest thing for him is the walks. That's always been a question for him.
AJ Pierzynski3:04
Viral: 85.0
If you want to make him a starter, why not make him a starter in spring training? Why are we trying to do it in the middle of the season?
AJ Pierzynski4:03
Viral: 80.0
It's two weeks and it's cold out. Wind's blowing in at Wrigley. You guys can't have it blown out every day.
AJ Pierzynski10:33
Viral: 75.0
Speakers

Hosts

RahimiHarrisGrote

Guest

AJ Pierzynski
Topics Discussed
White Sox Prospects85%Bullpen Strategy and Openers80%Cubs Offense and NL Central Race75%Ozzie Guillen Legacy70%ABS and Umpiring Technology65%Fan Engagement Events60%Early Season Slumps55%Player Development and Depth50%
People & Brands

AJ Pierzynski

person

15xPositive

Chicago White Sox

other

12xMixed

Chicago Cubs

other

10xPositive

Noah Schultz

person

8xPositive

Grant Taylor

person

7xNeutral

Ozzie Guillen

person

6xNeutral

Foul Territory

media

5xPositive

ABS (Automated Ball-Strike)

other

5xPositive

Wrigley Field

place

4xNeutral

Navy Pier

place

3xPositive

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