CHGO Chicago Cubs Podcast · ALLCITY Network, CHGO Sports

Where Does Chicago Cubs Michael Busch RANK Among NL First Basemen? | CHGO Cubs Podcast

·1 hr·5 clips

Could Michael Busch hit 40 home runs? The hosts believe his power makes it a real possibility.

This episode of the CHGO Chicago Cubs Podcast features hosts Joey Christopoulos and Justin Roman discussing Cubs offseason moves and player evaluations. They analyze the team's reported interest in free agent pitcher Zack Gallen and assess first baseman Michael Busch's standing in the league. Bob Nightengale reported the San Diego Padres, Baltimore Orioles, Chicago Cubs, and Arizona Diamondbacks are finalists for Zack Gallen. The hosts note Gallen previously denied a report from Nightengale claiming he had already signed with the Cubs. Justin Roman states the Cubs do not desperately need Gallen, as their current starting rotation is already strong. He argues adding Gallen would raise the team's floor but creates logistical questions about the rotation and bullpen. Roman points out other pitchers the Cubs were linked to, like Dylan Cease and Framber Valdez, ultimately signed with American League teams. The hosts discuss how Gallen's decision may involve factors like contract deferrals, family location, and a team's ability to improve his pitching. They cite his connection to catcher Carson Kelly and the appeal of the Cubs' elite infield defense. Joey Christopoulos emphasizes the Cubs are "all in" for 2026, crediting both Jed Hoyer and the Ricketts ownership. The conversation shifts to Michael Busch, who was ranked as the ninth-best first baseman in MLB by "The Shredder." The hosts strongly disagree with this placement. They highlight Busch's 2023 stats: a 3.6 fWAR (ranked 4th among first basemen), 34 home runs (2nd), and a 144 wRC+ (2nd). Justin Roman believes Busch has Gold Glove potential and expects even better offensive numbers with everyday at-bats, not just platoon duty. Christopoulos notes Busch's resilience through slumps and his strong postseason performance. Both hosts prefer him batting third, fourth, or fifth, not leadoff, to maximize his power. They argue his ranking is held back because he was a platoon player, and a full season as a starter will elevate his status. The episode maintains a conversational and optimistic tone, blending news analysis with fan-centric debate. Cubs fans eager for offseason updates and player analysis will enjoy this episode. Listeners seeking in-depth tactical breakdowns or interviews with players might find it less engaging.

As heard by us

A loose Cubs chat that turns Michael Busch's rise into a clear ranking debate.

Michael Busch is the center of this Cubs conversation, and the discussion keeps coming back to the same question: how much he has already earned, and how much is still waiting to be proved.

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Why you'd press play

Press play for a lively Cubs debate about where Michael Busch belongs in the pecking order.

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