The CHGO Cubs podcast highlights the Cubs' pre-season buzz, focusing on players Matt Shaw and PCA, while discussing their potential impacts as the season opener approaches in Japan.

Concerns surrounding Shaw's oblique injury raise questions about his readiness for the start of the season, potentially delaying his debut. Meanwhile, PCA's impressive spring training performance is analyzed, forecasting significant contributions as the Cubs aim to exceed expectations this year. The excitement surrounding former player Sammy Sosa's presence at camp adds to the positive vibes, as he mentors young talent, including PCA and others, creating an inspiring atmosphere.

Ryan Presley, newly introduced by the Chicago Cubs, emphasized his readiness to compete for the closer role and his excitement about joining a historic franchise. He expressed enthusiasm for pitching at Wrigley Field, sharing that the decision to leave the Houston Astros was challenging yet ultimately rewarding. Presley highlighted the opportunity to mentor young pitchers in the Cubs' bullpen, particularly mentioning Porter Hodge as a potential dynamic duo.

The discussion also touched on the Cubs' recent moves to enhance their roster, including the signing of Presley and the Dodgers' acquisitions that have impacted the Cubs' strategy. The podcast featured a ranking of center fielders in the National League, with prospects like Pete Crow-Armstrong (PCA) being placed for discussion on their potential to rise in rank by the season's end. The hosts debated the implications of these roster changes and the overall direction of the Cubs heading into the 2025 season.

The CHGO Cubs podcast emphasizes the necessity for players to exceed their projections to achieve a successful season in 2025. The hosts discuss the recent acquisition of John Birdie and speculate on his potential impact on the team's performance. They reflect on the versatility he brings as a utility player, albeit not a primary star. Dansby Swanson garners national attention and debate over his value as a player, particularly regarding his offensive statistics in juxtaposition to his defensive prowess. The conversation also touches on other players' potential to exceed expectations, with specific odds given for various Cubs players based on projections.

Mock drafts can be crucial in preparing for a fantasy baseball season, and the latest episode of Locked on Fantasy Baseball dives into the intricacies of one. Host Dominic Martino and co-host Matthew analyze a recent mock draft in which Matthew picked from the seventh position. The strategy focused on positional scarcities while ensuring a strong outfield with early selections like Kyle Tucker and Yordan Alvarez. Matthew explains his decisions surrounding player selections, including Austin Riley and Blake Snell, while emphasizing the importance of grabbing outfield talent before it thins out.

As the draft unfolds, Matthew shares insights on players like James Wood and Jordan Westberg, highlighting their potential in the upcoming season. He stresses the value of early picks for outfielders and discusses the importance of balancing power and speed within the team construction. The conversation also touches upon the risks associated with injury-prone pitchers such as Shane McClanahan and Brandon Woodruff, with a recognition that streaming options may be required later in the season. Overall, the draft reflects a mix of calculated risks and strategic depth, providing a valuable lesson for fantasy baseball enthusiasts.