Craig Counsell is making all the right moves as Cubs win 5 straight (Hour 1)

Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show41mApril 20, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

The Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show kicks off with a lively discussion on the Chicago Cubs' recent five-game winning streak, praising manager Craig Counsell for his strategic moves, particularly his timely use of pinch hitters like Scott Kingery and Carson Kelly. The hosts debate the importance of roster depth, highlighting how offseason additions like Alex Bregman and Miguel Amaya have given Counsell more flexibility. Despite the Cubs' current lack of a closer—due to Daniel Palencia's injury—Caleb Thielbar, at 39, has stepped in capably, though concerns remain about long-term bullpen sustainability. The conversation shifts to the Chicago Bulls' search for a new basketball operations leader, with speculation around Billy Donovan's role and potential candidates like Matt Lloyd and Austin Brown. The show also celebrates Munitaka Murakami's breakout performance for the White Sox, comparing his power-hitting prowess to legends like Adam Dunn and Jim Thome, while acknowledging the high strikeout toll. The episode closes with a fun segment on romantic songs for Wrigley Field dates, featuring personal picks from the hosts.

Key Takeaways
1

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

2

The Cubs' bullpen depth has been tested, but their starters have stepped up, reducing pressure on a shorthanded relief corps.

3

Munitaka Murakami's power-hitting has been a revelation for the White Sox, with comparisons to Adam Dunn and Jim Thome.

4

The Bulls are actively searching for a new basketball operations leader, with Billy Donovan likely staying in a key role.

5

Roster flexibility from offseason moves has allowed managers like Counsell to make better in-game decisions.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
5 min

Sponsor Intro & Illinois Legislative Drama

The episode opens with a sponsor message from Vasectomy Clinics of Chicago and a lighthearted jab at the hosts' credibility. The conversation shifts to speculation about Illinois Speaker Chris Welch blocking a sports-related bill, with Cam Buckner responding to the claims.

5:00
5 min

Who's Your Guy? Draft Week Kickoff

We educate people all week on guys they may not have heard of. Helps us too!

Highlight
10:00
10 min

Cubs' Winning Streak & Craig Counsell's Leadership

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

Highlight
20:00
10 min

Bullpen Challenges & Thielbar's Role

If it's not Caleb Thielbar without Palencia, then who?

Highlight
30:00
10 min

White Sox's Munitaka Murakami Breakout

He's become the most three true outcome player I've seen in a long, long time.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
I'd rather be hated than disappoint someone.
Layla Rahimi2:15
Viral: 88.0
The difference between Michael Bush in 2025 and Moises Ballesteros in 2026 is very simple.
Marshall Harris12:50
Viral: 85.0
He's become the most three true outcome player I've seen in a long, long time.
Marshall Harris34:23
Viral: 82.0
Speakers

Hosts

Layla RahimiMarshall HarrisMark Grody
Topics Discussed
Chicago Cubs Winning Streak95%Craig Counsell Management Style90%Munitaka Murakami's Power Hitting88%Cubs Bullpen Depth and Injuries85%Roster Depth and Strategic Flexibility82%Chicago Bulls Front Office Search80%NFL Draft Prospects and 'Who's Your Guy?'75%Wrigley Field Date Night Vibes65%
People & Brands

Chicago Cubs

other

25xPositive

Munitaka Murakami

person

14xPositive

Craig Counsell

person

12xPositive

Chicago Bulls

other

10xNeutral

Caleb Thielbar

person

8xNeutral

Billy Donovan

person

7xNeutral

Daniel Palencia

person

6xNegative

Dane Brugler

person

4xPositive

Libertyville

place

4xNeutral

Matt Lloyd

person

3xNeutral

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