North Side Territory: A Chicago Cubs Podcast

Coming off a long weekend for the club’s only World Series championship team in more than a century, The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney empty some newsy items from their notebooks. Why did David Ross have no second thoughts about coming back to Wrigley Field after getting fired as manager? When will Theo Epstein’s competitive juices start flowing again? And how will Jed Hoyer pull off trades for pitching at the deadline? Listen for some prospect names to know and potential structures for deals.

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The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney break down the Cubs’ 2026 draft class, giving insights into particular players and the strategies within the room. This push for more pitching could have a direct impact on the plans at the trade deadline. Listen for more on first-round pick Cade Townsend, top pitching prospect Jaxon Wiggins and some under-the-radar names who could make their way to Wrigley Field.

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The club’s performance over the next two-plus weeks absolutely matters. The Cubs can nudge some of the bubble teams they’re trying to do business with, the Twins and Tigers, and then create more separation in the division race during their road trip to Pittsburgh and St. Louis. The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney lay out what Jed Hoyer’s front office is looking for, explain how Craig Counsell’s staff can remodel the bullpen and give updates on some pitchers the Cubs are counting on in the second half.

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After watching the Home Run Derby, Jon Lester is back for some good conversation with The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney, reflecting on his All-Star Game memories and looking ahead to this weekend’s reunion for the 2016 World Series team. Why did Kyle Schwarber go to the next level after leaving Wrigley Field? What do fans really think of Pete Crow-Armstrong? And how did Anthony Rizzo become so good on TV? Listen now for unique insights and perspectives from a former player and two beat writers in Chicago.

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The trade deadline won’t solve everything. It’s a team game, but certain individuals are under a different spotlight and carry more responsibilities, due to their positions, paychecks and accomplishments. The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney identify three players who have to step up for the Cubs after the All-Star break.

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