North Side Territory

Once again, the Brewers showed they are a superior team, dominating a three-game sweep at Wrigley Field from start to finish. As the Cubs try to regroup, The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney explain how they flipped from the hottest team in baseball to a club that looks completely discombobulated. Are the Brewers really that good? Shouldn’t Alex Bregman be better than this? And what do you want to see from Craig Counsell right now?

PCA looks like he needs a break. After his vulgar exchange with a White Sox fan on the South Side went viral, the Gold Glove center fielder has committed two glaring errors, physical mistakes that he believes comes from a place of being mentally distracted. The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney share their reporting from inside the Wrigley Field clubhouse, explaining what’s gone wrong for the Cubs recently. Plus, their understanding of the Edward Cabrera situation and how the Cubs might move forward with their pitching. To explore coverage, visit aspcapetinsurance.com/FOUL. The ASPCA® is not an insurer and is not engaged in the business of insurance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The PCA Show came to the South Side, which generated an electric atmosphere for the latest installment of the crosstown rivalry. In winning that three-game series, the White Sox showed off their young talent and exposed some areas of concern for the Cubs. Crow-Armstrong always plays with emotion, and the All-Star center fielder complimented the White Sox for the team they’re building, but the Cubs need to get their lineup going again. The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney also break down the state of a pitching staff that appears to be feeling the effects from all those injuries.If you like your money, Mint Mobile is for you. Plans start at $15/month at MintMobile.com/Territory

Do the Cubs have enough top prospects in their farm system to make a blockbuster deal this summer? The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney are back with another primer on the trade deadline, bringing you the names to know and explaining the concepts that guide Chicago’s front office. Does Kevin Alcántara have a future at Wrigley Field? Could Pedro Ramírez be a keeper? And are Matt Shaw and Moisés Ballesteros untouchable parts of the major-league roster? It’s still early in the season, but these are relevant questions as the Cubs think about ways to fortify a World Series contender.Use our code for 10% off your next SeatGeek order* seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discount

Ahead of another crosstown series on the South Side, The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney empty their notebooks in Chicago. How has Brown evolved to the point where he might actually become that top-of-the-rotation starter the club previously envisioned? What do the Cubs see in the recently signed Hendriks, a former All-Star closer for the White Sox? And is this version of the White Sox for real? Get ready for a Cubs-Sox weekend with North Side Territory.Use our code for 10% off your next SeatGeek order* seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discount

Chicago’s front office does not expect to execute a major trade in May. But that process of scouting players, gathering information and reading the markets never really stops. And the Cubs have both a roster that can compete for a World Series title and a multitude of pitching injuries. For an overview of where things stand – and where this could be heading in the summer – The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney share their preliminary list of starters on the radar for the trade deadline.Go to HelloFresh.com/FT10FM now to Get 10 Free Meals + a Free breakfast for Life! One per box with active subscription. Free meals applied as a discount on the first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan. That’s HelloFresh dot com slash ft10fm to Get 10 Free Meals + free breakfast for Life.Use our code for 10% off your next SeatGeek order* seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Blockbuster trades do not typically happen at this point in the baseball calendar. Still, it is not too early to start asking about how the Cubs will approach the trade deadline this summer. The team has performed at such a high level – and endured so many pitching injuries already – that the trade deadline will be a dominant topic around Wrigley Field. For an early read on the market, potential targets and possible trade chips, The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney are here for an interactive show, responding to listeners.

It has been an unbelievable stretch at the Friendly Confines, where the Cubs last lost a game on April 11 while simultaneously dealing with a multitude of pitching injuries. For perspective on this red-hot streak, as well as a preview of what’s to come, listen to Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney. The Athletic beat writers detail the Matthew Boyd situation and provide updates on swingman Ben Brown and Jaxon Wiggins, the organization’s top pitching prospect. Plus, real insights into why Shota Imanaga is again pitching at an All-Star level.Buy two months of BlueChew Gold and get the third for FREE with promo code FOUL at BlueChew.com

It’s still early, but the Cubs have already overcome several challenging moments and demonstrated so many different ways that they can win. The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney are back to explain why this team is absolutely legit (and perhaps a little boring). It starts with up-the-middle defense – Dansby Swanson, Nico Hoerner and Pete Crow-Armstrong – that should never go into a slump. Plus, a look at how Ben Brown has turned around his career and stabilized a bullpen in flux. For the latest information from Wrigley Field, follow this show all season long.If you like your money, Mint Mobile is for you. Plans start at $15/month at MintMobile.com/TerritorySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You have to start with pitching. More than a month into the season, the Cubs have weathered an alarming amount of injuries. How much more can they withstand? The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney break down the pitching plans, anticipating the next moves and potential trouble spots. Plus, how are the Cubs going to use Moisés Ballesteros at catcher? And who’s for real in the National League Central?Use our code for 10% off your next SeatGeek order* seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discount

After a 3-3 road trip through Dodger Stadium and San Diego that has to be considered a success, the Cubs are back at Wrigley Field this weekend and looking to continue their momentum. The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney share some nuggets from their notebooks, beginning with another PCA resurgence on the West Coast. Plus, a comprehensive report on Steele’s diagnosis and a resetting of the timeline and the expectations for the All-Star pitcher. And, finally, why is Kyle Hendricks joining Detroit’s front office?Use our code for 10% off your next SeatGeek order* seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discount

While it’s too soon to label this a playoff preview, the Cubs got an up-close look at the two-time defending World Series champs. With the Dodgers ending the 10-game winning streak that showed a lot about the Cubs’ resourcefulness, it’s time to reset and assess what’s gone right and what’s gone wrong. One month into a new season, The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney sound the alarm bells about the state of the pitching staff while also explaining the key elements of this good start.To explore coverage, visit aspcapetinsurance.com/FOUL. The ASPCA® is not an insurer and is not engaged in the business of insurance.Use our code for 10% off your next SeatGeek order* seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Riding a nine-game winning streak, the Cubs will see how they measure up this weekend against the two-time defending World Series champs. The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney break down how the Cubs are playing through adversity, what to watch for against the Dodgers and why the club believes this high level of performance is sustainable. Listen all season long for behind-the-scenes information from Wrigley Field and up-to-date analysis of the Cubs.Use our code for 10% off your next SeatGeek order* seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at square.com/go/FOUL #squarepodSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Right now, the Cubs are rolling, but everyone in baseball is still ultimately chasing the Dodgers. Why did Counsell bring up the two-way superstar and a perceived unfair advantage for the two-time defending World Series champs? For the story behind the story, listen to The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney. Plus, several important updates on a pitching staff that has come together and handled the early-season adversity. You can’t say the same for the Mets and Phillies, two underperforming big-market teams that have come into Wrigley Field already facing questions about managers on the hot seat and whether the season can be salvaged.Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at square.com/go/FOUL #squarepodUse our code for 10% off your next SeatGeek order* seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amid a wave of pitching injuries and a few hitting slumps, the Cubs are in a relatively good position at this point of the season. How are they doing it? The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney explain the roster-building philosophy and personnel decisions that are paying off right now. Plus more on how Moisés Ballesteros is being developed at the major-league level and why Craig Counsell was looking up at the Wrigley Field press box after a recent in-game move.Use our code for 10% off your next SeatGeek order* seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountGet up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at square.com/go/FOUL #squarepodSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the Cubs off to a so-so start, The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney open the mailbag to answer questions from listeners and place some context around the beginning of the season. What factors go into Craig Counsell’s lineup decisions? How would you change the roster if you had an offseason do-over? And who’s to blame for this recent wave of pitching injuries? All that and more on the go-to show for the latest reporting on the Cubs.One thing to pack, five ways to power! Get 10% Off @Ridge with code FOUL at Ridge.com/FOUL #RidgepodSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three weeks into a long season, three particular developments have caught our attention (besides the recent rash of pitching injuries). The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney spotlight these ideas and try to project what might be sustainable and what could be a long-term concern. Is there reason to think Shota Imanaga could again be a legitimate Cy Young Award contender? Is Nico Hoerner simply off to a hot start or turning into a potential MVP candidate? And how do you evaluate the offensive struggles of Pete Crow-Armstrong and Michael Busch at this particular moment?One thing to pack, five ways to power! Get 10% Off @Ridge with code FOUL at Ridge.com/FOUL #RidgepodSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the injuries continue to pile up, the Cubs are looking at ways to add to their pitching staff. The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney share their reporting on the club’s interest in Lucas Giolito, a one-time All-Star who remains available as a free agent. The two Chicago beat writers lay out the pros and cons of that potential move. For in-depth analysis and unique information, follow this show all season long.Go to HelloFresh.com/FT10FM now to Get 10 Free meals + Free Nutribullet® Ultra Plus+ 2-in-1 Compact Kitchen System (a $189.99 value) on your 3rd box. Free meals applied as a discount on the first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan. Must order the 3rd box by May 31st, 2026.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the Cubs starting to get into the flow of the season, The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney answer timely questions from listeners. How concerned should Cubs fans be about the state of the bullpen? What are the takeaways from potential aces Cade Horton and Justin Steele suffering serious injuries in back-to-back years? Is it too early to start thinking about the trade deadline? (Never.) Listen to North Side Territory all year round for the latest information on the Cubs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is devastating news for Horton, who will need a major procedure on his right elbow, which will sideline one of the sport’s best young pitchers for the rest of the year. As the Cubs absorb this information, The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney describe the scene in the clubhouse and outline the updated plans for the rotation. One name involved in this discussion is Lucas Giolito, who’s still out there as a free agent. How is the club evaluating Giolito right now? North Side Territory breaks down all the angles to this big story.Use our code TERRITORY10 for 10% off your next SeatGeek order* seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ten games into the season, the Cubs have already placed 40 percent of their Opening Day rotation on the injured list. The short-term outlook for Matthew Boyd appears better than Cade Horton’s situation, but the organization’s depth is being severely tested in April and the major-league club simply isn’t playing well right now. What’s the real level of concern here? The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney are back to talk it through with insights from the clubhouse and the manager’s office.Use our code TERRITORY10 for 10% off your next SeatGeek order* seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Cubs are sending mixed signals about Horton, their potential ace who’s now dealing with a forearm issue. With the club waiting for more information off further testing, The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney describe the scene in Cleveland and outline the options for the rotation. Questions from listeners also involve the Cubs’ plans for the trade deadline and strategy around the ABS system.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the Cubs get into the flow of the season, The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney spot some of the early trends and share what they’re looking for in the first month. The rotation, led by Matthew Boyd, is always a focus and moving in the right direction. Right field remains a question mark, both in April and for the long team. And something interesting is happening with Pete Crow-Armstrong’s swing. Get up to speed with the go-to show for the latest information on the Cubs.Start your 7-day free trial today at FOXOne.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s never easy for Crow-Armstrong to hide his emotions, but it was almost impossible during Friday’s news conference at the Wrigley Field office building, where the Cubs heralded his six-year, $115 million contract extension. The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney take you inside the room and behind the scenes of the negotiations, explaining how it happened and why it matters to so many different parties. Listen to North Side Territory all season long for the latest information on the Cubs.Enjoy 50% off for life plus Free Shipping AND 3 Free Gifts at MenGoToMars.comGet 10 free meals and a FREE Zwilling Knife (a $144.99 value) on your third box at HelloFresh.com/FT10FM. Offer valid while supplies last. Free meals applied as a discount on first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In one financial quarter, the Cubs committed $431 million to Nico Hoerner, Pete Crow-Armstrong and Alex Bregman, solidifying them as building blocks at Wrigley Field. Is this a new way of doing business? Yes and no. With direct insights from the key players involved in the negotiations, The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney outline the thinking behind these big moves and how the deals came together.Get 10% off your first month of BlueChew Gold with code FOUL at BlueChew.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Opening Day at Wrigley Field was kind of dud, but the Cubs delivered a six-year agreement with Hoerner, a homegrown Gold Glove second baseman and a fan favorite for his style of play. The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney look into the motivations for this deal, how the front office has seemingly evolved with extensions and why the club now has a clear identity and a solid foundation for the future.Get 10 free meals and a FREE Zwilling Knife (a $144.99 value) on your third box at HelloFresh.com/FT10FM. Offer valid while supplies last. Free meals applied as a discount on first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan.Start your 7-day free trial today at FOXOne.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With Opening Day being treated as a deadline, the Cubs and Crow-Armstrong’s camp came together to finalize a six-year, $115 million deal that solidified him as a new face of the franchise. The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney take you inside the negotiations and explain what each side was thinking during the process. If you want to know how the Cubs operate, and what people inside the organization think of Crow-Armstrong, listen to North Side Territory for those insights from the front office and the clubhouse.Use our code TERRITORY10 for 10% off your next SeatGeek order* seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountIf you like your money, Mint Mobile is for you. Plans start at $15/month at MintMobile.com/TerritorySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nearing the end of spring training, The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney open their notebooks for some information on how the team is coming together. Why did Cubs manager Craig Counsell tell his hitting coaches to stay away from Ballesteros? And what’s the story behind this elite hitting prospect? Plus, some reports from evaluators who maybe aren’t as high on Chicago’s pitching staff. Should this be a concern heading into Opening Day? All that and more on the latest episode of North Side Territory, your go-to show for a behind-the-scenes look at the Cubs. Get 10% off your first month of BlueChew Gold with code FOUL at BlueChew.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What did the Cubs really think of how Team Venezuela handled their closer? The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney explain Palencia’s rise through the organization and onto the stage of an electric championship game. As the Cubs welcome key players back from the WBC, the focus will be getting the entire group on the same page and preparing for Opening Day. How will the pitching staff take shape? And what should we make of the Cactus League performances by Jameson Taillon, Shota Imanaga, Cade Horton and Edward Cabrera? Listen to North Side Territory all season long for the latest information and unique insights from the clubhouse and the front office.Get 10% off your first month of BlueChew Gold with code FOUL at BlueChew.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Near the end of a relatively smooth spring training, the Cubs are dealing with some uncertainty. The club continues to monitor Suzuki, who injured his right knee while playing for Team Japan in the World Baseball Classic, making it questionable whether he will be able to start the season on time. The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney have the latest updates on this situation, from Suzuki’s timeline to the team’s current plans for right field and the internal deliberations on how to fill out the Opening Day roster. Listen to North Side Territory all season long for information, insight and analysis.Start your 7-day free trial today at FOXOne.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With Opening Day fast approaching, The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney analyze some of the decisions that club officials will be facing before the Cubs pack up and leave Arizona. The Cactus League numbers won’t reveal much about Horton, one of the sport’s best young pitchers. But how the Cubs manage the next stage of his career will be fascinating to watch. For certain players, however, the results in spring training matter. Find out who is being closely watched on the latest episode of North Side Territory, the go-to show for information on the Cubs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney break down the latest news from Cubs camp, where Boyd returned after his stint with Team USA. The Athletic’s Cubs beat writers explain why naming the Opening Day starter was a relatively straightforward decision and what that means moving forward. Plus a look at Pete Crow-Armstrong’s World Baseball Classic highlight reel and how that can propel him toward another MVP-caliber season. Follow North Side Territory all season for insights from the field level and the clubhouse.Get 10 free meals and a FREE Zwilling Knife (a $144.99 value) on your third box at HelloFresh.com/FT10FM. Offer valid while supplies last. Free meals applied as a discount on first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan.Start your 7-day free trial today at FOXOne.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As spring training continues and the World Baseball Classic entertains, The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney are back with some nuggets from their notebooks. Leading off, do the results in spring training matter for a Gold Glove shortstop with a $177 million contract? Actually, yes, to a degree, given the changes that Swanson made this offseason. Plus what to make of the latest outings from Matthew Boyd (Team USA) and Jameson Taillon (Canada) as well as some WBC names to file away as the Cubs try to maintain their presence in Japan. Use our code TERRITORY10 for 10% off your next SeatGeek order* seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountStart your 7-day free trial today at FOXOne.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is there another Brad Keller surprise in camp for the Cubs this spring? How would Nico Hoerner's ability to play shortstop impact the team's chances of extending him? What's the plan for Ben Brown? Sahadev empties the mailbag and answers these questions and more. Start your 7-day free trial today at FOXOne.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Team USA’s unbelievable collection of talent includes two Cubs stars who could play prominent roles in this global event. Alex Bregman and Pete Crow-Armstrong are constantly talked about, but this is a huge moment for both players, and a sign of Chicago’s progress over the last several years. The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney discuss Bregman’s influence on the team and how his presence has changed the tenor of this training camp. Plus, Crow-Armstrong’s deep connections to USA Baseball and how Cubs pitcher Matthew Boyd factors in the WBC plans.Start your 7-day free trial today at FOXOne.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What’s the current timeline for Justin Steele as the All-Star pitcher comes back from elbow surgery? And should you be concerned about Jameson Taillon and Shota Imanaga at this point? The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney have the latest information from Arizona, plus a look at how Michael Busch has finally filled the club’s post-Anthony Rizzo void at first base. For real insights and observations from spring training, follow North Side Territory.Start your 7-day free trial today at FOXOne.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney are back with their roster projections and insights from the Arizona complex. Tyler Austin’s unfortunate injury and Michael Conforto’s arrival have somewhat changed the picture. How are the Cubs planning to start the season? At this point, their rotation appears to be healthy while at least one bullpen job seems to be up for grabs. Plus, an explainer on Shota Imanaga’s velocity boost and why that matters. For the latest information on the Cubs, follow North Side Territory throughout spring training.Use our code TERRITORY10 for 10% off your next SeatGeek order* seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spring training is fully underway, but the Cubs haven’t stopped making moves. The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney get you up to speed with the latest from Arizona, where the Cubs will be welcoming a one-time All-Star outfielder. Moisés Ballesteros has also arrived in camp after visa-related delays. Where does the rookie fit in now? Plus a look at Seiya Suzuki’s trajectory as he leaves for the World Baseball Classic in what will be a huge platform year for the Japanese outfielder. Follow North Side Territory throughout spring training for in-depth coverage from Mesa.Use our code TERRITORY10 for 10% off your next SeatGeek order* seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountQuit overspending on wireless with 50% off Unlimited premium wireless. Plans start at $15/month at MintMobile.com/TerritorySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Tony Clark scandal hovered over spring training as union officials visited Cubs camp on Wednesday in Arizona. Sahadev Sharma joins Patrick Mooney with a full report from Mesa. The Athletic beat writers then give a very encouraging update on Cade Horton, who after an awesome rookie season already looks like a potential Cy Young Award contender and Game 1 playoff starter. Plus details on a subtraction to Chicago’s front office and what that might mean for the club’s pursuit of Japanese talent.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In what’s become an annual tradition, Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts separately addressed the team and the Chicago media covering spring training in Arizona. The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney give Cubs fans the most important takeaways from that session with the club’s owner. How should Marquee Sports Network be judged at this point? What does the league’s TV future look like? Where does all that fit into the push for a salary cap in the upcoming labor negotiations? What about money for the trade deadline? For comprehensive coverage of the Cubs all year round, subscribe to North Side Territory.Our listeners get 15% off plus free shipping when they buy two or more pairs of prescription glasses at WarbyParker.com/FOUL — using our link helps support the show. #WarbyParker #adSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is Pete Crow-Armstrong working on this year? And how will Alex Bregman help the young star reach that next level? Sahadev Sharma joins Patrick Mooney with his early impressions from Arizona. The Athletic beat writers discuss the risk-reward approach to trying to change Crow-Armstrong’s game as well as Bregman’s influence within the clubhouse, which is already apparent. Follow North Side Territory throughout spring training for the latest on a Cubs team that is planning to be a World Series contender.Quit overspending on wireless with 50% off Unlimited premium wireless. Plans start at $15/month at MintMobile.com/TerritorySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After the first formal workout for Cubs pitchers and catchers in Arizona, Sahadev Sharma joins Patrick Mooney for a rundown of the sights and sounds in Mesa. The Athletic beat writers capture the new expectations surrounding the team and wonder if we’ll see a different Craig Counsell this year (doubt it). Nevertheless, the Cubs manager made headlines with his preliminary plan for the ninth inning, naming Daniel Palencia as his anticipated closer. And while the Cubs are back, it still left another question hanging out there: Are they done with their offseason yet? Get 10 free meals and a FREE Zwilling Knife (a $144.99 value) on your third box at HelloFresh.com/FT10FM. Offer valid while supplies last. Free meals applied as a discount on first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After a rough stretch of Chicago winter filled with snow, ice and bone-chilling temperatures, Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney are looking forward to pitchers and catchers reporting to Arizona. The Athletic writers explain why the offseason still doesn’t feel over yet in February, what they’ll be paying attention to in Mesa and how the pitching staff will have to come together (or not). Follow North Side Territory throughout spring training, when Sharma and Mooney will be in the clubhouse and around the complex gathering information and insights.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Although another move or two could still be out there, the Cubs checked a lot of boxes this winter, adding to a roster that will be expected to win 90-plus games, a division title and multiple playoff rounds. With spring training right around the corner, The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney hand out their offseason grades, reviewing what the Cubs got right and pointing out what could go wrong.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With so many good questions from listeners, The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney broke up their latest mailbag into two parts. In this episode, the beat writers analyze the possibility of long-term deals for Pete Crow-Armstrong and Nico Hoerner, and outline the plans for Moisés Ballesteros. Plus, a rundown of some of their favorite interviews over the years at Wrigley Field, and why Anthony Rizzo could be a great broadcaster in his new role.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With spring training rapidly approaching, The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney are back with a pitching-centric mailbag, answering questions from listeners about which free agents are still in play, how Craig Counsell will manage the bullpen and whether the Cubs will go with a six-man rotation. Listen all year round for the latest information from the North Side.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As subzero weather grips Chicago, The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney are looking forward to spring training in Arizona and what’s next for the Cubs. In this episode, the two beat writers analyze the Peralta deal and what it means for the Brewers and the rest of the National League. Another Cooperstown election and the 10-year reunion of the 2016 World Series team prompts a question: Will anyone from that group make the Hall of Fame? Plus more on Chas McCormick and the strong sense that this front office is not done yet.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It could be nothing. But this is a front office that is always willing to listen, never viewing a player as untouchable. And the Cubs are clearly signaling that they’re not yet done with their offseason moves. So where does that leave Shaw and Hoerner now that the Cubs have a potential surplus of infielders after the addition of Alex Bregman? The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney share what they’re hearing on North Side Territory, the go-to show for offseason news and analysis of the Cubs. Quit overspending on wireless with 50% off Unlimited premium wireless. Plans start at $15/month at MintMobile.com/TerritorySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Now that the Tucker saga has a predictable ending – the top free agent is heading to Dodger Stadium – The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney give some insights into why the Cubs seemed to move on a long time ago. Closing Alex Bregman’s five-year, $175 million deal certainly took a lot of heat off the Cubs organization leading into its annual winter convention. But the front office also hasn’t yet shut down any of the trade speculation surrounding Hoerner, Shaw and a potential surplus of infielders. North Side Territory, your offseason home for Cubs news and analysis, gets into all of those angles and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What an introduction to Chicago for the two-time World Series champion who purposely chose No. 3 for his new jersey. Yes, Bregman wants a third World Series ring to add to his collection. The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney explain the significance of this moment, how the five-year, $175 million deal came together and where Bregman is planning to make an impact, on and off the field. Get 10 free meals and a FREE Zwilling Knife (a $144.99 value) on your third box at HelloFresh.com/FT10FM. Offer valid while supplies last. Free meals applied as a discount on first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On an electric night for Chicago sports fans, the Cubs reminded the city and the baseball world that they are still a big-market force, closing a five-year, $175 million deal with Bregman before the Bears roared back for a playoff victory over the Packers. The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney explain why the Cubs have been so enamored with the All-Star third baseman and what Bregman’s arrival means for the rest of this year and beyond.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.