On today’s CHGO Cubs Podcast, we break down a loaded pitching staff that could power the Cubs to the top of the NL. With Cade Horton ready to take another leap, Shota Imanaga building off his dominant MLB debut, and the addition of Edward Cabrera, the upside in this group is undeniable. Add in the veteran stability of Jameson Taillon and Matthew Boyd, and suddenly this looks like one of the deepest rotations in baseball. And don’t forget — Justin Steele is expected to return in the first half of the 2026 season following elbow surgery. If Steele comes back looking like his All-Star self, does that officially make this the most dangerous rotation in the National League? We stack the Cubs up against the Dodgers, Braves, and Phillies, debate the biggest X-factors, and ask the big question: Is this finally the year Chicago’s pitching leads them back to October dominance?

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With the first Chicago Cubs Spring Training game getting underway on Friday, Corey Freedman and Brendan Miller tee up the entire Cactus League slate and what fans should be watching from Day 1. The guys break down Jameson Taillon getting the ball in the opener and what a strong spring could mean for his role in the 2026 rotation. They’ll also dive into Matt Shaw getting reps in the outfield — what does that mean for his versatility and roster outlook? Plus, updates on Pete Crow-Armstrong’s offensive adjustments, Ben Brown’s upside as a breakout arm, and the early camp storylines that could shape the Cubs’ season. From rotation battles to position flexibility and breakout candidates, this episode sets the stage for everything to monitor as Cubs baseball officially returns.

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From early camp takeaways to the biggest roster battles, Matt dives into what really matters as the Cubs ramp up for the 2026 season. How is the starting rotation shaping up? Who needs a strong spring? And what should fans realistically expect heading into Opening Day? Is this the spring where PCA takes another leap? What are the expectations for his bat, defense, and overall impact on the lineup? Matt analyzes how Crow-Armstrong fits into the Cubs’ long-term vision — and whether this is the year he becomes a true difference-maker. Plus, a deep look at the Cubs’ starting pitching. Is the rotation strong enough to compete in the NL? How does Cade Horton factor into the conversation? Are there legitimate depth concerns, or is this staff being underrated heading into the season?

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