Windy City Breakdown

Answering the top Cubs questions as playoffs loom

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Fri, 25 Sep 2026 17:43:46 +0000

The Chicago Cubs have clinched a playoff spot, but there is still much to be decided as far as seeding and opponent for the Wild Card Series goes. Kyle Millinowisch and Tony Andracki attempt to answer the most pressing questions surrounding this team, including: -What can we expect from Alex Bregman now that he has returned to the Cubs lineup? -How will the Cubs roll out their rotation and pitching staff for the Wild Card Series? -Will Kevin Gausman be healthy enough to pitch next week after suffering a shoulder injury? -What does Craig Counsell do with the bullpen in a shortened playoff series? -Who are the biggest X-factors in the lineup that need to step up for a slumping offense? -What's the latest with Justin Steele and will he make an impact on the postseason roster? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What to look for as Cubs inch closer to playoffs

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 18:35:16 +0000

The Chicago Cubs have less than a dozen games before the postseason -- so what should give fans optimism and what should cause them concern? The Windy City Breakdown analyzes the stretch run for the Cubs, then they discuss a big Week 1 win for the Bears.

Tony Andracki, Kyle Millinowisch and Andy Martínez share why the Cubs should give you optimism for a deep run, then they discuss why you should be concern. The trio recap another incredible performance by Pete Crow-Armstrong in the series-opening win over the Braves, then offer some historical nuggets after the center fielder hit his 42nd home run of the season.

Later in the pod, they recap the Bears historic, 59-37 win over the Panthers and why they're excited by the start of the season. The panel then discusses a controversial ranking for Caleb Williams after his incredible Week 1 performance.

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Cubs Panic Meter rising and who's to blame for 2026 pitching woes? Plus, Bears Week 1 preview

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 23:19:27 +0000

The Chicago Cubs were just swept by the Milwaukee Brewers, leading to another 10-game gap in the NL Central -- just like two years ago. So what is the Panic Meter at for the Cubs, both in terms of making the playoffs and putting together a deep run in October? Zooming out, the Cubs rank No. 1 in team defense and offense but have the 30th-ranked pitching staff based on FanGraphs' WAR. How did this happen? Who deserves the blame for this? Andy Martínez, Tony Andracki and Kyle Millinowisch provide answers to these questions, including looking for solutions to the bullpen woes and how the Cubs can right the ship before the postseason. Plus, the panel gives a Week 1 Bears-Panthers preview, making score predictions and guesses for who will be the top receiver, tackler and have the most fantasy points on the Bears. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cubs bullpen implosion vs. Brewers, plus concerns ahead of playoffs

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki, Andy Martinez, Kyle Millinowish) — Wed, 2 Sep 2026 19:15:53 +0000

The Cubs bullpen -- which looked like a strength earlier in the year -- scuffled in a tough loss to the Brewers at Wrigley Field. Tony Andracki, Kyle Millinowisch and Andy Martínez break down the reliever issues for the Cubs and how concerned they are for the team as a whole with the playoffs nearing.

The trio breaks down what's going on with the Cubs, whether they could have done more and who or what may be the answer for their bullpen woes. Later in the pod, the group discusses who will be the X-Factor down the stretch, and their concern for the team: the Philadelphia Phillies.

The Windy City Breakdown then dives into the Bears, as the NFL season nears. They discuss what their biggest concern for the team is and who the No. 1 Bears player they're targeting in fantasy football this year.

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Cubs suffer tough losses on and off field, plus fiasco with D'Backs

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki, Andy Martinez, Kyle Millinowish) — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 19:24:24 +0000

The Cubs suffered a pair of difficult walk-off losses to the Mariners and Diamondbacks, then received some concerning news on right-hander Ben Brown. Tony Andracki, Kyle Millinowisch and Andy Martínez discuss the state of the Cubs after their West Coast trip. The trio also discuss whether or not you should be concerned about the Cubs bullpen situation.

Later in the pod, they discuss Merrill Kelly and the Diamondbacks' claims about pitch tipping and sign stealing and share whether Carson Kelly and Miguel Amaya should get a bump in their WAR because of their ABS prowess. The panel wraps up the pod discussing how far back the Cubs need to be from the Brewers to believe they have a shot at winning the division, and discusses the Cubs' 150th anniversary team.

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PCA strengthens MVP case with historic Crosstown Classic performance

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki, Andy Martinez, Kyle Millinowish) — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 19:11:45 +0000

Pete Crow-Armstrong had an emphatic moment in his 2026 MVP-caliber campaign as he launched a pair of home runs, including a walk-off blast, against the White Sox in the Cubs win in the Crosstown Classic. Andy Martínez, Tony Andracki and Kyle Millinowisch recap the incredible night from PCA and assess what this means for his MVP campaign, especially going up against the Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani.

The crew then breaks down what Dansby Swanson's oblique injury means to the team, and why they're concerned about, even though he hasn't been hitting as well as he has in the past. Then, they discuss Edward Cabrera's blister that has landed him on the injured list for the second time this season (and his third IL stint overall) and what role, if any, he'll play in 2026. The trio wrap up by discussing whether or not they'd like to see a Crosstown Classic World Series and what that would mean for the the city.

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Cubs show aggressiveness at Trade Deadline

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Tue, 4 Aug 2026 18:23:19 +0000

Jed Hoyer and the Chicago Cubs showed their aggressiveness this trade deadline, acquiring pitchers Kevin Gausman, Clay Holmes, Ryan Zeferjahn and Braxton Garrett, and outfielder Tyrone Taylor. The front office showed a willingness to try and bolster a roster that has been positive in 2026. Andy Martínez, Tony Andracki and Kyle Millinowisch break down all of the moves a day after the deadline.

The group analyze what this means for a pitching staff that has shown plenty of signs of wear already this season. Then, the group discuss what this means for the Cubs' playoff rotation and why they are now poised to make a deeper run in October.

Lastly, the panel discusses whether the prices they paid, why they're OK with the Cubs moving on from certain prospects and what it means for the future of their player development.

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Bregman, Hoerner heating up and will Pete Crow-Armstrong overtake Shohei Ohtani for NL MVP?

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki, Kyle Millinowish, Andy Martinez) — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 15:40:59 +0000

Alex Bregman and Nico Hoerner have completely turned things around since the All-Star Break as the Cubs continue their incredibly streaky season. Andy Martínez, Tony Andracki and Kyle Millinowisch evaluate the team's most recent 27-12 stretch (a story we've seen before) and wonders what comes next. Plus, they react to Jameson Taillon's somewhat surprising DFA and what it means for the Cubs pitching staff. Will Pete Crow-Armstrong turn his hot stretch into an NL MVP Award over clear favorite Shohei Ohtani? And the panel takes a look at the trade deadline and whether their thoughts have changed over the last week. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Debating how Cubs should approach MLB trade deadline

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 15:54:35 +0000

The MLB trade deadline is rapidly approaching and the Cubs have a very curious situation ahead of them. Do they go all-in and try to target pitchers like Tarik Skubal and Mason Miller?

Andy Martínez, Tony Andracki and Kyle Millinowisch debate the Cubs' approach to the deadline, including laying out their own ideas of what a perfect trade haul would look like to boost this 2026 roster. The panel throws out some key names for fans to watch, including Freddy Peralta, Kevin Gausman and a host of intriguing relievers.

Plus, a unique wrinkle in the MLB rulebook that impacted the Cubs this week and a surprisingly hot-button debate in the baseball world comes to the surface.

The WCB panel also dabbles into other sports, breaking down Patrick Kane's return to Chicago and a mini preview of Bears training camp.

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Cubs Midseason Superlatives

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 17:45:11 +0000

The Chicago Cubs enter the All-Star Break 12 games over .500 and in a playoff position, but it's arguably been one of the wildest rides to that point. Tony Andracki, Andy Martínez and Kyle Millinowisch assess the team's first half and what the rest of the season may look like for this unpredictable team.

Then, the trio handout some midseason superlatives and awards, including:
- Biggest surprise of the first half
- MVP
- CY Young
- Best offseason move
- Best win
- Worst loss
- Best stat
- 2nd half predictions
- Biggest disappointment

The trio wrap it up with their usual, "That Guy Rocked" segment, a surprising pick that leaves Tony and Andy stumped.

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Putting Pete Crow-Armstrong's hot streak with Cubs in historic context

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Thu, 9 Jul 2026 16:06:09 +0000

Pete Crow-Armstrong has been on another level for a month-and-a-half, begging the question: Did the Cubs actually fleece him in the $115 million contract extension they signed him to before the 2026 season?

Crow-Armstrong's hot stretch and eye-popping skillset was a main topic of conversation on the latest Windy City Breakdown Podcast as hosts Tony Andracki, Kyle Millinowisch and Zoe Grossman discussed the Cubs star outfielder.

Plus, what's behind the Cubs' strong play over the last month? And can they catch the Brewers in the NL Central?

The panel also broke down what the Cubs' approach should be at the MLB trade deadline and whether or not Jed Hoyer's front office should go all in.

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Amid an insane run of pitching injuries, are the Cubs ... back?

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 16:08:15 +0000

The Cubs could put together a very strong pitching staff just with all the guys on the injured list. Ben Brown, Edward Cabrera and key relievers have all landed on the shelf over the last week, putting the Cubs in a bit of a bid.

Andy Martínez, Tony Andracki and Kyle Millinowisch discuss all the pitching injuries on the Windy City Breakdown Podcast and how the Cubs weather the storm. The panel also answers the question -- are the Cubs ... back?

They were the best team in baseball for six weeks, then the worst team in baseball for over a month. And now they've been the best team in baseball again for the last 2-3 weeks. So, who are the real Cubs?

Plus, can David Peterson and Bryse Wilson actually be saviors for the 2026 season? And where should Alex Bregman bat in the Cubs' order?

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The Dansby Swanson Conundrum and revisiting Cubs offseason acquisitions

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 15:36:47 +0000

The Cubs just finished up the easiest stretch of their schedule, where they went 6-6 against two of the worst teams in baseball (Giants, Rockies). Despite Pete Crow-Armstrong's superstar hot streak, the offense still can't find its way with runners in scoring position and the pitching staff continues to deal with a litany of injuries.

Andy Martínez, Tony Andracki and Kyle Millinowisch welcome Zoe Grossman from Cubs on SI to the Windy City Breakdown Podcast to analyze all the latest with this Cubs team. Should Dansby Swanson's struggles merit less playing time -- especially considering youngsters Matt Shaw and Pedro Ramirez have given the Cubs a boost recently?

And who is the biggest disappointment among offseason additions: Alex Bregman or Edward Cabrera?

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Why has the 2026 Cubs season gone sideways?

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 16:40:21 +0000

The Cubs were the best team in baseball through their first 39 games. But in the 30 games since then, they were among the worst teams in baseball with an 8-22 record.

How did that happen? Why has the season gone sideways?

The Bigs' Eugene McIntosh joins Andy Martínez, Tony Andracki and Kyle Millinowisch on the Windy City Breakdown podcast to attempt to answer those questions -- the biggest questions of the Cubs season to date.

From Nico Hoerner's struggles to a slew of players not meeting expectations, this Cubs season has gone off the rails a bit. How does that affect what the team will do at the trade deadline? Does it change how we should view the rest of the season and the Cubs' playoff chances?

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Cubs pitching ponderings and analyzing Alex Bregman's struggles

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Wed, 3 Jun 2026 19:23:22 +0000

The Cubs are getting some reinforcements back on the pitching staff with Matthew Boyd and Edward Cabrera set to return in the next week or so. But how effective will they be? And who will get bumped from the rotation?

One pitcher who looks like a sure thing to stick around is Ben Brown, who may actually be the Cubs' best bet for an All-Star next month. Andy Martínez, Tony Andracki and Kyle Millinowisch discuss all the latest with the Cubs pitching staff, including Brown's big breakout, Jameson Taillon's home run struggles and much more.

Plus, is there a downside to Caleb Williams gracing the Madden video game cover? And what's behind the offensive woes for veteran players like Alex Bregman and Dansby Swanson?

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Cubs halt losing streak but serious questions remain

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Thu, 28 May 2026 14:45:49 +0000

FINALLY. It happened.

The Cubs won a game.

After a brutal 10-game slog, the Chicago Cubs came out victorious in Pittsburgh, halting the franchise's toughest stretch since that fateful losing streak in the summer of 2021. Andy Martínez, Tony Andracki and Kyle Millinowisch discuss the latest streak on the Windy City Breakdown Podcast and try to make sense of a team that put up a pair of 10-game winning streaks AND a 10-game losing streak all in a little over a month.

What does this stretch tell us about the 2026 Cubs and how the rest of the season will play out? What lingering aspects of the losing streak remain even after it has run its course? And is it too early to discuss Tarik Skubal and potential trade deadline targets?

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What is going on with the Cubs right now?

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Thu, 21 May 2026 19:38:48 +0000

The Cubs are in a funk.

They were firing on all cylinders earlier in the year, with multiple 10-game winning streaks. But they are in the upside down right now, struggling in every aspect of the game.

Andy Martínez, Tony Andracki and Kyle Millinowisch analyze it all on the latest Windy City Breakdown Podcast, from the series sweep at the hands of the "no-name" Brewers to Pete Crow-Armstrong's controversial miscues to the Cubs' struggles with runners in scoring position.

Plus, why the Brewers deserve the utmost respect -- despite their manager's silly stance.

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Chuck Garfien joins to preview Cubs-White Sox Crosstown Classic

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Thu, 14 May 2026 19:04:35 +0000

Crosstown Classics are always fun, but the first edition of the 2026 matchup between the Cubs and White Sox should be a blast.

Andy Martínez, Kyle Millinowisch and Tony Andracki are joined by CHSN's Chuck Garfien to preview the matchup between the two teams that are off to strong starts. Chuck also shares the behind-the-scenes, incredible story of breaking the news that the White Sox were retiring Ozzie Guillen's number.

Later in the pod, Andy, Kyle and Tony discuss what's going on with the Cubs on the road compared to at Wrigley Field. Then, Kyle brags about his one prediction he's absolutely nailed thus far.

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The Cubs are off to a historic start and here's why

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Wed, 6 May 2026 19:32:06 +0000

The Cubs are off to their best start since 2016 (and one of the greatest starts in franchise history).

Why?

Andy Martínez, Tony Andracki and Kyle Millinowisch break it down on the latest Windy City Breakdown Podcast, discussing "undertalked" about storylines, the keys behind the team's winning streaks and success at home and much more.

Plus, a view at how ABS has changed the game and why Carson Kelly is the greatest ABS player of all-time. And we kept the receipts on Andy's worst take of the season so far.

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Bears NFL Draft analysis, PCA's struggles and more with Chris Emma

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 17:21:44 +0000

The NFL Draft is in the books and the Bears added some playmakers to their roster. The Score's Chris Emma stops by the Windy City Breakdown to chat with Andy Martínez, Tony Andracki and Kyle Millinowisch on the Bears' draft haul, what to make of Dillon Thieneman and provides an answer as to why the heck the team took a tight end in the third round.

Plus, how do the Cubs survive the wild rash of injuries on the pitching staff? And are Pete Crow-Armstrong's offensive struggles starting to become a serious concern?

To end the episode, the quartet takes a trip down memory lane (and down a rabbit hole, honestly) with some early 2000s Cubs thoughts.

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Cubs winning streak takeaways and is it time to talk about Colin Rea?

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:52:46 +0000

The Cubs haven't lost for a calendar week and seem to be firing on all cylinders right now. Andy Martínez, Tony Andracki and Kyle Millinowisch each provide their top takeaway from the team's 6-game winning streak.

Is it time to talk about Colin Rea and his underrated contributions on the Cubs pitching staff over the last two seasons? Does Moisés Ballesteros need to more against lefties? Are the Pirates real, actual contenders in the NL Central?

Plus, we start a fun new segment reflecting back at a player who holds a special place in Cubs history.

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What comes next for Cubs after Cade Horton's injury?

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Thu, 9 Apr 2026 17:02:25 +0000

Cade Horton is officially done for the season. How does that affect the calculus for the 2026 Chicago Cubs?

The Athletic's Patrick Mooney joins the Windy City Breakdown Podcast to chat with Andy Martínez, Tony Andracki and Kyle Millinowisch about what comes next for the Cubs in the aftermath of Horton's devastating injury. Does this mean the Cubs will be actively searching for a rotation upgrade on the free agent or trade market? Does it change anything for top pitching prospect Jaxon Wiggins?

Plus, Mooney shares some 2016 Cubs memories, explains his first impressions of Edward Cabrera and Alex Bregman and also analyzes the bullpen struggles and how the Cubs can right the ship.

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Cubs panic level rising after pitching injuries?

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Mon, 6 Apr 2026 20:49:06 +0000

Cade Horton (forearm) and Matthew Boyd (biceps) are both on the IL, meaning the Cubs will be without their top two starters for at least two weeks. But in the case of Horton, could he be on the shelf for far longer?

Andy Martínez, Tony Andracki and Kyle Millinowisch reacts to the injury news and rates their own panic levels of the Cubs on the latest Windy City Breakdown Podcast after the first nine games of the 2026 MLB season.

Plus, what should the Cubs do with Ben Brown and how will the rest of the bullpen find its level? And is it time to call up Kevin Alcántara?

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Takeaways from opening week of Cubs' 2026 season

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 20:07:59 +0000

The Cubs have had an up-and-down first few games of the season, going 2-2 against the Nationals and Angels. But there has been much to glean from the opening week.

Andy Martínez, Tony Andracki and Kyle Millinowisch recount their top takeaways from the Cubs' first four games, including Edward Cabrera's nasty stuff, Alex Bregman's most impressive characteristic and Phil Maton's role (and absolute filth on the mound!).

Plus, is there concern about Shota Imanaga already? And what do all the contract extensions around MLB mean for the Cubs and the league?

Martínez also explains the coolest part of Nico Hoerner's extension press conference.

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Reactions to 2026 Opening Day, Cubs contract extensions

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 20:40:49 +0000

The Cubs were dealt a disappointing blow on Opening Day ... and then picked things right back up with breaking news of Nico Hoerner's contract extension.

The Windy City Breakdown Podcast crew of Andy Martínez, Tony Andracki and Kyle Millinowisch reacted to the strange weather at Wrigley, the 10-4 loss to the Washington Nationals and what Hoerner's extension means for the team and the Cubs fanbase.

Plus, who should the Cubs extend next now that Hoerner and Pete Crow-Armstrong are locked up long-term? The panel also reflects on Jason Heyward's career and their favorite memories of the highest-paid player in Cubs history as he announced his retirement.

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Bold predictions for 2026 Cubs, MLB season

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 12:30:00 +0000

It's that time of year again! Bold predictions come fast and furious in the latest episode of the Windy City Breakdown Podcast, as hosts Andy Martínez, Tony Andracki and Kyle Millinowisch provide their hot takes for the 2026 Cubs season. Among the predictions include thoughts on Cade Horton, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Nico Hoerner, Michael Busch and possibly a trip to the World Series??

Other predictions and topics on this episode include:

-What is your biggest question about the Cubs entering the season?
-Under-the-radar players to keep an eye on this season
-Who or what will be the biggest surprise of the 2026 Cubs season?
-2026 Cubs breakout player
-2026 Cubs MVP
-2026 Cubs Cy Young
-What series on the Cubs schedule are you circling and most anticipating?
-What minor leaguer that has NOT made their MLB debut will have the biggest impact on the 2026 season?
-2026 Cubs bold predictions
-2026 MLB bold predictions

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Seiya Suzuki's injury and behind-the-scenes Pete Crow-Armstrong stories

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 16:19:05 +0000

Seiya Suzuki is dealing with a knee injury suffered during the World Baseball Classic, leaving the Cubs to figure out a Plan B with MLB Opening Day just over a week away.

Mick Gillispie, the Cubs' Double-A broadcaster and host of Cubs Baseball Channel, stops by the Windy City Breakdown Podcast to chat through his WBC musings and share some behind-the-scenes stories of Pete Crow-Armstrong as he came up through the Cubs system.

Plus, what does the future hold for Matt Shaw? Is he an option to help plug the gap in Suzuki's stead?

Gillispie also shares his choice for under-the-radar Cubs player to keep an eye on this season and drops a bold prediction for the 2026 Cubs.

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Episode 6: Matthew Boyd named Opening Day starter and more Cubs pitching thoughts

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 03:39:57 +0000

The Chicago Cubs have an Opening Day starter -- 2025 All-Star Matthew Boyd. The Athletic's Sahadev Sharma joins the show to discuss the news with Windy City Breakdown Podcast hosts Andy Martínez, Tony Andracki and Kyle Millinowisch.

Sharma and the crew also dissect the Cubs pitching staff, ranging from questions about what type of performance Justin Steele can put up when he returns from injury to first impressions of Edward Cabrera. Plus, find out the under-the-radar players Sharma thinks could crack the Cubs Opening Day roster -- and why it's not too bold to be talking World Series with this Cubs team.

Later in the episode, Andracki gets fired up about the Randy Arozarena-Cal Raleigh handshake and the panel breaks down the nearly massive miscue from Mark DeRosa and Team USA. And did we see perhaps the wildest day in sports history this week as a result of all this WBC drama?

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Episode 5: Where should Pete Crow-Armstrong bat in Cubs lineup?

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Wed, 4 Mar 2026 02:18:29 +0000

Justin Steele is fully cleared, Pete Crow-Armstrong is gearing up to represent Team USA in the World Baseball Classic and we're all ready to run through a wall after hearing Aaron Judge's speech.

On the latest episode of the Windy City Breakdown Podcast, Andy Martínez, Kyle Millinowisch and Tony Andracki debate the importance of the update on Steele's health and come to terms with their feelings on Judge's speech.

Plus, where should Crow-Armstrong hit in the Cubs batting order in 2026? Will his depressed on-base percentage keep him from hitting toward the top of the lineup? If he's not going to bat leadoff, who will for Craig Counsell's squad?

In football news, what do the Bears do now after a Drew Dalman's surprise retirement and are they really the betting favorite to trade for Maxx Crosby?

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Episode 4: Latest from Cubs camp with MLB.com's Jordan Bastian

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 21:22:36 +0000

MLB.com senior reporter Jordan Bastian joins the Windy City Breakdown to share the latest from Mesa, Ariz. Jordan breaks down the injury news to Tyler Austin and what that means for the Cubs' bench. Then, Jordan shares what to expect from new starter Edward Cabrera, who is scheduled to make his spring debut this weekend.

He also shares what all the players leaving for the World Baseball Classic means for non-roster invitees and other fringe players, before delving into bold predictions. Jordan shares why it's not a bold take to say the Cubs reach the World Series in 2026.

Later in the podcast, Tony and Andy discuss the Cubs' bench situation and why it still matters who the 25th and 26th players are on the roster. The duo wrap up the pod with what they're following beyond baseball, including an intriguing Bears offseason on and off the field and a soccer team in Norway that's stealing the spotlight.

Make sure to like and subscribe to the podcast!

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Episode 3: Cubs camp talk with Tribune's Meghan Montemurro

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 20:30:00 +0000

Chicago Tribune Cubs beat writer Meghan Montemurro is the first guest of the Windy City Breakdown and joins the crew to talk spring training. Meghan shares her observations from camp, including a surprising pick to be the Cubs' breakout player in 2026. She discusses the impact of Alex Bregman to this team and the contrast of what he brings compared to former slugger Kyle Tucker. Meghan delves into what the Cubs rotation may look like once Justin Steele is back in the fold and then provides a bold prediction for the team in 2026.

Later in the pod, Tony, Andy and Kyle react to the interview with Meghan and share what sports stories they're following this week. Tune in and subscribe for weekly Cubs and Chicago sports content!

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Episode 2: Cubs Spring Training officially begins

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 18:01:54 +0000

The crew breaks down the official start of Cubs spring training and recaps the opening press conferences from Jed Hoyer, Carter Hawkins and Craig Counsell. Kyle, Tony and Andy then look at some of the final roster battles they'll be watching this spring, before giving out some recommendations for those fans heading to Arizona.

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Episode 1: Debut + Cubs offseason grades

tandracki23@gmail.com (Tony Andracki) — Thu, 5 Feb 2026 01:36:54 +0000

Introducing the Windy City Breakdown, with hosts Tony Andracki, Andy Martinez and Kyle Millinowisch. The crew debates and grades the Cubs offseason, from the Alex Bregman signing to the bullpen makeover.

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