Craig Counsell is making all the right moves as Cubs win 5 straight (Hour 1)
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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.
Craig Counsell is making smart, impactful managerial decisions that are key to the Cubs' five-game winning streak.
The Cubs' bullpen depth has been tested, but their starters have stepped up, reducing pressure on a shorthanded relief corps.
Munitaka Murakami's power-hitting has been a revelation for the White Sox, with comparisons to Adam Dunn and Jim Thome.
The Bulls are actively searching for a new basketball operations leader, with Billy Donovan likely staying in a key role.
Roster flexibility from offseason moves has allowed managers like Counsell to make better in-game decisions.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
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.
Who's Your Guy? Draft Week Kickoff
“We educate people all week on guys they may not have heard of. Helps us too!”
Cubs' Winning Streak & Craig Counsell's Leadership
“The difference between Michael Bush in 2025 and Moises Ballesteros in 2026 is very simple.”
Bullpen Challenges & Thielbar's Role
“If it's not Caleb Thielbar without Palencia, then who?”
White Sox's Munitaka Murakami Breakout
“He's become the most three true outcome player I've seen in a long, long time.”
“I'd rather be hated than disappoint someone.”
“The difference between Michael Bush in 2025 and Moises Ballesteros in 2026 is very simple.”
“He's become the most three true outcome player I've seen in a long, long time.”
Hosts
Chicago Cubs
other
Munitaka Murakami
person
Craig Counsell
person
Chicago Bulls
other
Caleb Thielbar
person
Billy Donovan
person
Daniel Palencia
person
Dane Brugler
person
Libertyville
place
Matt Lloyd
person
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Examining the Bears’ receiver void
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5 On It: How confident are you in what Edward Cabrera can bring to the Cubs?
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Will White Sox rookie Munetaka Murakami hit 40 home runs this season?
Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show • 12m • 3/31/2026
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