Russ Dorsey talks Cubs' slow start, Noah Schultz's talents (Hour 4)
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In this episode of the Rahimi, Harris & Grote Show, MLB insider Russ Dorsey joins the hosts to discuss the Chicago Cubs' slow start to the 2026 season, focusing on their struggles with offensive production, particularly in high-leverage situations and with runners in scoring position. Dorsey emphasizes the importance of starting pitchers reaching the fifth inning to give the offense a chance, highlighting the Cubs' lack of depth and consistency in their rotation. He reflects on Kyle Schwarber’s departure, acknowledging the emotional weight for fans but arguing that the move may have ultimately helped Schwarber’s career growth. The conversation then shifts to the Chicago White Sox, where Dorsey expresses excitement about the imminent debut of top pitching prospect Noah Schultz, a 6'10" left-hander with elite stuff. Dorsey praises the White Sox’s focus on developing young starting pitching as a long-term strategy, contrasting it with past roster decisions. The episode also touches on broader themes of organizational timelines, player development, and the importance of patience in rebuilding, while briefly covering the legacy of former Bears coach Dave McGinnis and the infamous 1999 hiring debacle. The hosts close with anticipation for the night’s games, especially Schultz’s debut.
The Cubs need their starting pitchers to consistently reach the fifth inning to give the offense a chance to rally.
The Cubs' struggles with runners in scoring position are a growing concern, despite their strong on-base skills.
Kyle Schwarber’s non-tendering may have been a catalyst for his career resurgence with the Phillies.
Noah Schultz’s debut represents a major milestone for the White Sox’s long-term pitching development strategy.
Developing young, controllable starting pitching is the most valuable asset in modern MLB.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Sponsor Intro & Russ Dorsey’s Return to Studio
The episode opens with a sponsor message from Cars for Kids, introducing Russ Dorsey as a national MLB insider. The hosts welcome him back to the studio, celebrating his upcoming role hosting Hit & Run on Sunday. They share nostalgic trivia about the show’s original co-hosts, George Hoffman and Jesse Rogers.
Cubs’ Slow Start & Offense in Crisis
“If they're not able to get length out of that starting rotation, you're going to have some problems.”
Kyle Schwarber: Legacy, Departure, and Growth
“I think for Kyle Schwarber, the situations that he's found himself in post-Cubs have helped him elevate himself as a player.”
The White Sox’s Pitching Pipeline & Noah Schultz
“Young, controllable starting pitching is the most valued asset in Major League Baseball right now.”
Organizational Strategy & the Future of Rebuilding
The hosts and Dorsey discuss the broader implications of player development, the importance of timelines, and the risks of trading away young talent. They reflect on the White Sox’s past missteps and the need for patience. The episode ends with anticipation for Schultz’s debut and the upcoming games.
“Young, controllable starting pitching is the most valued asset in Major League Baseball right now.”
“I think for Kyle Schwarber, the situations that he's found himself in post-Cubs have helped him elevate himself as a player.”
“If they're not able to get length out of that starting rotation, you're going to have some problems.”
Hosts
Guest
Russ Dorsey
person
Chicago Cubs
other
Kyle Schwarber
person
Chicago White Sox
other
Noah Schultz
person
Philadelphia Phillies
other
Dave McGinnis
person
Luke Little
person
Matt Spiegel
person
Jed Hoyer
person
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