Robin Adams, Author at ChiCitySports

Chicago Cubs: MLB analyst claims team’s 3-3 start signals one major concern

Robin Adams — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 22:45:37 +0000

Prior to the start of the 2026 MLB regular season, the Chicago Cubs made one thing clear to their fans and the rest of Major League Baseball: they expect to win the division. The Milwaukee Brewers, who knocked the Cubs out of the postseason last year, have won the National League Central Division in each of the past three years. This year, the Cubs expect to end up on top.

What is more, Chicago wants to compete for, and win, the World Series, which they have not won since 2016. As such, they went about the winter piecing together a roster that many feel is one of the best in the Majors. At least on paper.

However, that high-powered and carefully constructed roster started the year 3-3.

MLB analyst wonders if the Chicago Cubs can remain consistent

Mar 28, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs third baseman Alex Bregman (3) at bat against the Washington Nationals at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

Obviously, six games are far from a clear picture of what will be a 162-game season. That being said, while divisions cannot be won in March or April, they can certainly be lost. If the Cubs find themselves a game or two behind the Brewers (or another NL Central team) heading into the final week of the year, many will point to this lackluster start.

Derek Antoine of Yahoo Sports fears that Chicago’s inconsistency to start the year may end up biting them:

“The Cubs have already shown the early warning signs that kill seasons—they can be productive, but not reliably punishing. They can survive cold nights at Wrigley. They can survive one shutout. What they can’t survive is a lineup that only scores when everything lines up perfectly.

“And what happens when they start facing real pitching depth every series? Because the competition hasn’t necessarily been stellar.

“So the question is simple, and I won’t be polite about it. Do the Cubs have enough lineup length to win games when they aren’t hitting nukes? Or are they about to spend April proving that the offense is all paper?”

These are all questions that many had about the Cubs roster going into the season. Undoubtedly, when they are clicking on all cylinders, they are nearly impossible to beat.

But, as Antoine asks, what is going to happen when things are not clicking? Chicago needs to figure out how to overcome these challenges if they are going to compete for the division, much less a World Series title.

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Chicago Cubs get 3 players projected as NL All-Stars after first week of 2026 MLB season

Robin Adams — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:30:40 +0000

The Chicago Cubs are 3-3 through the first six games of the 2026 MLB regular season. While there have been frustrating moments early, it is easy to see the potential this team has to be among the best in baseball. With a talented roster with multiple high-quality players, it will not be long before the Cubs start climbing back up the standings.

Despite the fact that the season is only a week old, some are starting to wonder what players from around baseball will end up representing their teams in the 2026 MLB All-Star Game. Undoubtedly, the Cubs have multiple players that could play in the Mid-Summer Classic, but Bleacher Report predicts only three of them will.

Bleacher Report predicts Alex Bregman and Daniel Palencia will join Pete Crow-Armstrong on the NL All-Star roster

Feb 25, 2026; Mesa, Arizona, USA; Chicago Cubs third baseman Alex Bregman (3) hits a single against the Colorado Rockies in the first inning at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

In Bleacher Report‘s first All-Star roster projection since the start of the season, they predicted that Chicago will be sending three players to the game. They predict that Alex Bregman will be voted in as the NL starting third baseman. They also named Pete Crow-Armstrong an All-Star reserve, and Daniel Palenica as one of the pitchers.

Bregman was an All-Star for the third time in his career last year while playing for the Boston Red Sox. This year, through six games, he is hitting .208/.321/.458 with two home runs and three RBI. However, he was walked (four times) more than he has struck out (twice).

Crow-Armstrong made his first career All-Star team last year. So far this season, he is hitting .261/.320/.261 with three RBI.

Palecia has never been named to an All-Star team in his career. In two appearances this season, he has to record a run. He may have made a name for himself among those choosing All-Star pitchers, though, with all well he pitched in the World Baseball Classic.

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Chicago White Sox have just 1 player predicted to be a 2026 AL All-Star

Robin Adams — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 17:57:14 +0000

The Chicago White Sox are off to a horrendous start to the 2026 MLB season. They are currently 1-5, tied for the worst record in all baseball. What is more, their -31 run differential is, by far, the worst is both the American League and National League.

Indeed, this year projects to be another long-suffering season for White Sox fans, who have watched their team lose over 100 games in each of the past two seasons.

Even though the season is just one week old, many are starting to wonder what the All-Star rosters will look like. And as projections are made, there is only one White Sox player that some think will make the American League roster.

Grant Taylor predicted to represent the Chicago White Sox in the 2026 MLB All-Star Game

Sep 21, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago White Sox pitcher Grant Taylor (31) pitches against the San Diego Padres during the eighth inning at Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

Last year, starting pitcher Shane Smith was named as Chicago’s lone American League All-Star. However, after his first two starts of the season this year, it does not seem like he will be repeating that honor. Smith is currently 0-2 with a 19.29 ERA.

Therefore, in Bleacher Report‘s first All-Star roster projection since the start of the 2026 MLB season, he is not the White Sox player they believe will represent Chicago. Instead, they predict it will be right-handed relief pitcher Grant Taylor:

“He is an under-the-radar candidate worth keeping an eye on this year. With an upper-90s fastball and wicked breaking stuff, he struck out 54 of the 157 batters he faced in 2025 while logging a 1.42 FIP in 36.2 innings.”

Currently, Taylor has a 4.50 ERA in two appearances. Last year, he was 2-4 with a 4.91 ERA in 36 appearances. He also recorded six saves.

This is a very interesting choice from BR because of the presence of Munetaka Murakami on the White Sox roster. While it is yet to be seen just how consistent he will be over the course of the season, one would assume his popularity in Japan will garner him millions of fan votes.

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Chicago Cubs: Edward Cabrera considered team’s biggest takeaway after 1 week of games

Robin Adams — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 14:24:27 +0000

The Chicago Cubs knew that they needed to make a significant addition to their starting rotation. With Justin Steele recovering from injury and not available to start the season, they wanted to get a pitcher who would do more than just fill the gap. They wanted one who would give them years of added stability.

And that is what they got when they traded for Edward Cabrera from the Miami Marlins, sending a package of prospects in return, most notably Owen Caissie.

While Cabrera has made just one start for the Cubs so far this season, his performance has inspired a great deal of excitement among fans.

The Chicago Cubs could have something special in Edward Cabrera

Mar 30, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs pitcher Edward Cabrera (30) pitches against the Los Angeles Angels during the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

In his Cubs debut, Cabrera threw six innings of shutout ball while allowing just two base runners. He also notched five strikeouts and earned the win.

It was an impressive enough performance for MLB.com to name Cabrera Chicago’s biggest takeaway of the first week’s worth of games:

“When Cabrera took the mound at Wrigley Field for his Cubs debut on Monday, the announced attendance of 36,702 was the largest home crowd he had experienced in his MLB career. Not only was he in the North Side’s rowdy environment, but the wind was blowing out and it was his shot at a good first impression as Chicago’s big trade acquisition over the winter.

“Cabrera was unfazed by all of it. The big righty showed off his powerful arsenal and held the Angels to one hit over six shutout innings. He flashed a combination of swing-and-miss (15 whiffs) and trust in the Cubs’ elite defense. It was an impressive debut in every way and showed why Chicago had been trying to reel in Cabrera for a couple years.”

If Cabrera can keep pitching this way, the Cubs’ starting rotation is going to be in excellent shape. What is more, he is under team control for the next several seasons.

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Chicago White Sox: MLB analyst reveals team’s biggest takeaway after 1 week of games

Robin Adams — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 13:51:35 +0000

The Chicago White Sox are not off to a good start in the 2026 MLB season. After going 41-120 in 2024 and 60-102 in 2025, fans did not have high expectations for them this year. The hope was that they would at least play decent baseball and show some improvement.

But they haven’t.

Through the first six games of the season, the White Sox are just 1-5. They are tied with the Boston Red Sox and Athletics for the worst record baseball.

But what is worse is the fact that Chicago has a -31 run differential right now, by far the worst in all the Majors. The next closest team to them is the Red Sox, who have a -15 run differential.

Munetaka Murakami gives the Chicago White Sox a much-needed silver lining

Mar 31, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; Chicago White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) reacts after striking out against the Miami Marlins during the eighth inning at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Indeed, the White Sox have not played very inspiring baseball early on in the season. And while there is still plenty of time, there is microscopic hope that they will right the ship.

That being said, rookie first baseman Munetaka Murakami has at least given fans a new star to cheer for. MLB.com recently named him Chicago’s biggest takeaway from the first week’s worth of games:

“By his own admission, the left-handed-hitting first baseman from Japan has plenty of work to do as he begins his Major League career. In fact, Murakami has focused more on early shortcomings and the process for improvement even when opening weekend accolades were heaped upon him.

“But Murakami became the first player in White Sox franchise history to have a home run in each of his first three big league games, not to mention producing a hit in each of his first five, an RBI in four of those five and showing great patience at the plate with a walk in three of those five. He appears to be a needed bonafide power source.”

Through six games, Murakami is hitting .238/.360/.667 with three home runs and five RBI. As noted above, he hit a home run in each of his first three Major League games. Unfortunately, they were all solo shots and the White Sox lost each of those games.

An additional frustration is that he has struck out nine times in six games. It appears that the high strikeout totals that gave some Major League teams pause when he was on the market did indeed follow him over from Japan.

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Chicago Bears: Ben Johnson gets honest on what Caleb Williams needs to do better in 2026

Robin Adams — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 22:00:58 +0000

When the Chicago Bears drafted Caleb Williams with the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, the hope was that he would become their franchise quarterback. He certainly showed that he could be as a rookie, posting a 62.5% completion percentage to go with 3,541 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, six interceptions, and an 87.8 passer rating.

Following the 2024 NFL season, Chicago hired Ben Johnson to be their next head coach, and the hope was that he would help Williams take steps forward to becoming a more complete quarterback.

And he did; but there is still work to do.

Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson needs Caleb Williams to work on his decision-making

Green Bay Packers defensive end Micah Parsons (1) and defensive end Rashan Gary (52) pressure Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis. The Packers defeated the Bears 28-21.
Wm. Glasheen USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin

In his first season with Johnson as his head coach, Williams had a 58.1% completion percentage, 3,942 passing yards, 27 touchdown passes, seven interceptions, and a passer rating of 90.1.

Clearly, almost all of these numbers were improvements over the 2024 season that Williams had. Noticeably different, though, was the completion percentage, which dropped considerably.

It is something that Johnson wants Williams to work on improving this upcoming season:

“I’m going to mistime some calls, or they’re going to throw something at us that we weren’t prepared for. And that’s on him and his athletic ability to bail us out.

“And so that’s what I’m looking forward to, is we’re going to be able to have those conversations in the quarterback room of when can we hang in there and get this ball out to the primary or the No. 2 receiver, and when do we need to extend, and naturally, I think we got to get better when we extend plays, capitalizing on those as well.”

As one can see from Johnson’s comments, he wants Williams to be better when extending plays with his legs. Instead of being so quick to throw the ball away, at times, the Bears head coach wants his quarterback to be more patient and hit secondary targets.

Williams is a young quarterback, and this is a skill that takes time to develop. If he can do so in 2026, though, Chicago’s offense is going to be even more dynamic.

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Chicago Bears urged to trade fan-favorite defender ahead of 2026 NFL Draft

Robin Adams — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 21:00:25 +0000

The Chicago Bears finished the 2025 NFL season 11-6 and won the NFC North division title. They also knocked their hated rivals, the Green Bay Packers out of the postseason before falling to the Los Angeles Rams in the divisional round. Overall, it was a very successful season.

Of course, new head coach Ben Johnson deserves a great deal of credit for the quick turnaround in Chicago. He revamped the offense and brought in a bright new coaching staff that helped players reach new heights.

Among these was defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, whose 2025 Bears defense led the NFL in takeaways. However, they also finished near the bottom of the league in passing yards and points allowed.

The Chicago Bears are urged to trade linebacker TJ Edwards ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft

Chicago Bears TJ Edwards before a matchup with 49ers – Credit: Bob Kupbens-Imagn Images

Chicago has already made some changes on defense by signing safety Coby Bryant to replace Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker, both of whom signed elsewhere in free agency.

Over the course of the off-season, Chicago has taken measures to cut salary and set themselves up to be able to extend players, sign other free agents, and sign their 2026 NFL Draft class.

Jerry Markarian of Sports Illustrated believes that the Bears should continue to do so by trading, not cutting, linebacker TJ Edwards:

“With that said, they could trade him and save $6.2 million against the cap. Trading him with a post-June 1st designation would save closer to $8 million. They wouldn’t get much (at all, actually), but a deal in the vein of a late-round pick swap would make a lot of sense to get his contract off the books and allow them to get under the cap to sign their rookie class.

“This year’s draft class would provide Chicago with a unique opportunity to replace him with someone who would be a much better fit for the style of defense they want to have. There are a lot of fast and physical ‘backers who will hear their name called on day two.”

Chicago cannot release Edwards to save money. He has a $12 million dead cap hit, but just a $10.6 million cap hit if he remains on the team. The only way they can move on from him and save money is by trading him.

Markarian argues that Edwards, who is coming off a major leg injury, may not be the speedy linebacker that the Bears need to improve as a defensive unit. He suggests that a late pick swap with another team in a trade for Edwards would make sense.

And it might. Chicago would save money and open up more opportunities for younger players. On the other hand, though, they would lose an important locker room voice.

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Chicago White Sox: Munetaka Murakami included on 6-hottest rookies list

Robin Adams — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 19:00:59 +0000

The Chicago White Sox are off to one of the worst starts in Major League Baseball this season. They are currently 1-4 through their first five games and in last place in the American League Central Division. What is more, their -21 run differential is the worst in baseball. In fact, they are the only team with a run differential worse than -14.

This being said, no one expected the White Sox to be good this year. After going 60-102 a year ago, fans are hoping to see a bit more improvement in 2026 as they continue to rebuild.

Fortunately, Munetaka Murakami has given Chicago fans a fun player to rally behind and cheer for amid the team’s lack of winning.

Chicago White Sox slugger Munetaka Murakami named one of MLB’s hottest rookies

Mar 28, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Chicago White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) hits a solo home run as Milwaukee Brewers catcher William Contreras (24) looks on in the fourth inning at American Family Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

When Murakami first announced that he was going to transition to Major League Baseball after eight seasons in Japan, many thought he would get a lot of interest from multiple teams. However, due to his high strikeout totals, that interest never really materialized.

As a result, Murakami signed a two-year $34 million contract with Chicago. So far, he has impressed fans by homering in his first three Major League games. Overall, he is hitting .278/.409/.778 with three home runs and 4 RBI through five games.

Buster Onley of ESPN recently named him one of the six hottest rookies in MLB:

“He is super determined,” White Sox head of baseball operation Chris Getz said of Murakami. “It’s very clear he wants to prove to someone that he’s real. He’s very serious.”

And very dangerous for pitchers: Murakami homered in each of Chicago’s three games against the Milwaukee Brewers. “Put the home runs aside — the quality of his at-bats really stood out,” Getz said, mentioning how his rookie faced some of the Brewers’ hard throwers, such as Jacob Misiorowski.

It’s clear to Getz that Murakami is not just an all-or-nothing slugger, with how he adapts throughout the ball-strike count, and Getz expects that as the 26-year-old faces more major league pitching he’ll continue to make adjustments.

Through the first five games of the season, Murakami has struck out seven times and has drawn four walks. As the year goes on, his individual success will rely on his ability to adjust further to Major League pitching.

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Chicago Bears are “making progress” on contract extension for Caleb Williams

Robin Adams — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 18:54:34 +0000

The Chicago Bears have had a busy off-season. Amid rumors of possibly relocating to Indiana, the front office has had to block out that noise and focus on re-tooling the roster. In 2025, the Bears won the NFC North with an 11-6 record and knocked the Green Bay Packers out of the NFL Playoffs.

Obviously, the goal for 2026 is to improve upon the 2025 NFL season and take the next steps towards Super Bowl contention. Just as obvious is that Caleb Williams played a big role in Chicago’s success and that he will be foundational to any future achievements the team accomplishes.

The Chicago Bears are working on a contract extension for Caleb Williams

Williams is coming off a 2025 season that saw him have a 58.1% completion percentage, 3,942 yards, 27 touchdowns, seven interceptions, and a 90.1 passer rating. It was a record-setting year as he became oh-so-close to being the first quarterback in franchise history to pass for 4,000 yards.

If the Bears have it their way, he will get plenty more opportunities. According to reports, Chicago is making progress on a contract extension for their franchise quarterback:

Bears GM Ryan Poles says the team is planning for a potential contract extension for QB Caleb Williams and Matt Feinstein, the team’s salary-cap guru, will present Poles with extension ideas:

“We’re making progress. That is exciting to even be thinking about planning for that.… pic.twitter.com/6pYUaazj5T

— Bearsszn (@bearszn) April 1, 2026

“We’re making progress,” general manager Ryan Poles said. “That is exciting to even be thinking about planning for that. It’s exciting. But then there’s a challenge after that, too…..It’s really a summer project. Matt Feinstein is digging into it now. We’ve had some preliminary conversations because we want to take some of these things into consideration as we build the team.’’

Williams is entering the third year of his NFL career. He has his standard four-year rookie contract and the fifth-year option left to go before he hits free agency. While Chicago may be engaged in a contract extension already, it may not take effect for a few more years.

This being understood, it is wise for the Bears to start these talks now so that they can hopefully lock him in to a team-friendly deal before future free agent or extended quarterbacks drive up the market.

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Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell announces exciting time-table for Seiya Suzuki retrun

Robin Adams — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 18:00:13 +0000

The Chicago Cubs were forced to start the 2026 MLB regular season without the player they believed would be their everyday right fielder. During the World Baseball Classic, Seiya Suzuki suffered a knee injury while he was sliding into second base. As a result, he was unable to start the year on the Cubs Opening Day roster.

While it is still early, Chicago is 2-3 and in last place of the National League Central Division. They are coming off a game in which they were shutout by the Los Angeles Angles 2-0. Indeed, offense has been a bit of a concern for the Cubs in the early going.

Fortunately, help is on the way.

Chicago Cubs manager reveals likely timeline for Seiya Suzuki return

Mar 14, 2026; Miami, FL, United States; Venezuela second baseman Gleyber Torres (25) tags out Japan center fielder Seiya Suzuki (51) in the first inning during a quarterfinal game of the 2026 World Baseball Classic at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

It was recently revealed that Suzuki was nearing return. Now, it is being reported that he will soon be heading out on a rehab assignment, one that is going to last just 3-7 days:

#Cubs Seiya Suzuki will begin his rehab assignment on Friday with Double-A Knoxville. Craig Counsell expects his assignment to be between 3-7 days.

— Taylor McGregor (@Taylor_McGregor) April 1, 2026

Last season, Suzuki had the best season of his MLB career, hitting .245/.326/.478 with 32 home runs and 103 RBI. It was the first time in his Cubs tenure that he hit more than 30 home runs and had 100 or more RBI.

That being said, his batting average and on-base percentage was well-below his career norms. This season marks the final year of his contract with Chicago, and he will have to perform well if he wants them to bring him back in 2027.

Bringing in a power bat to an offense that has been inconsistent thus far this year will certainly help.

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Chicago White Sox: Munetaka Murakami confusing left off top-25 MLB rookie ranking

Robin Adams — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:17:08 +0000

The Chicago White Sox made one of the most surprising free agent splashes of the MLB off-season. When Munetaka Murakami first announced his intention to transition from Japan to Major League Baseball, few thought that the White Sox would be in play for the slugging first baseman.

However, because of concerns over Murakami’s high strikeout totals in Japan, Major League teams were hesitant to give him a long and lucrative contract. As a result, Chicago was able to swoop in and snag the slugger for two years and $34 million.

The 2026 MLB season is still in its infancy, but Murakami has already made a stellar impression on baseball fans in the United States. However, it somehow was not good enough to even crack a top-25 MLB rookies list.

Chicago White Sox star Munetaka Murakami somehow left off top-25 rookie ranking

Recently, Bleacher Report released their list of the top 25 rookies around Major League Baseball. Their criteria was simply that the rookies begin the season on their team’s Opening Day rosters. Munetaka, of course, began the season on Chicago’s Opening Day roster.

However, for whatever reason, he was not included on the list of the top 25 rookies around baseball.

In his first four games in the Majors, Murakami is hitting .286/.444/.929 with three home runs and three RBI. He also has walked four times and struck out five times.

There are, of course, many talented young rookies across Major League Baseball. However, the fact that Murakami is not included on the list of the top-25 is highly questionable. Perhaps it is because he spent eight seasons playing professionally at the highest level in Japan, but he is still a Major League rookie in 2026.

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Chicago Cubs: Moises Ballesteros grabs top-10 MLB rookie ranking after season’s first weekend

Robin Adams — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 14:07:56 +0000

The Chicago Cubs, early in Spring Training, made it known that they did not intend to let their top prospect, Moises Ballesteros, start another year in the minor leagues. Instead, he was an early addition to the Opening Day roster. This followed his successful Spring Training and brief first stint in the Majors last season.

Indeed, Ballesteros is one of the most highly regarded rookies in all Major League Baseball this season, and there are many who think he could make a run for the National League Rookie of the Year Award.

Chicago Cubs youngster Moises Ballesteros gets top-10 rookie ranking

Mar 30, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs designated hitter Moises Ballesteros (25) runs after hitting a two-run single against the Los Angeles Angels during the third inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

In a recent ranking of the top 25 rookies across Major League Baseball, Bleacher Report slotted Ballesteros in at number 10, writing:

“The departure of Kyle Tucker in free agency cleared a path for Moisés Ballesteros to break camp with a starting spot in the Chicago Cubs lineup, serving as the team’s primary designated hitter.

“The 22-year-old has a 60-grade hit tool and has produced every step of the way in the minors. After struggling in his first MLB action early last season, he returned to post a .333/.435/.564 line in 46 plate appearances as a September call-up.

“His value is exclusively tied to what he does in the batter’s box, but he has raked throughout his pro career.”

Through four games this season, Ballesteros is hitting .143/.200/.143 with two RBI. It is still early, of course, and there is little reason not to believe he will not get going fairly soon.

In Chicago’s last game, a 7-2 victory over the Los Angles Angels, Ballesteros went 1-4 with two RBI.

Last year, in his first 20 games of Big League action, the slugger hit .298/.394/.474 with two home runs and 11 RBI.

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Chicago Bears see rival Packers defender express his hate for team, City, and Ben Johnson

Robin Adams — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 12:32:19 +0000

When the Chicago Bears hired Ben Johnson to be their head coach prior to the 2025 NFL season, he made no secret of his disdain for the Green Bay Packers and his counterpart Matt LaFleur. After spending multiple seasons with the Detroit Lions, Johnson developed a deep dislike for all things Packers, including and especially their head coach.

What is more, Johnson backed up his pre-season trash talk in the regular season and NFL Playoffs. Chicago split the season series with Green Bay 1-1 and then knocked them out of the playoffs in the Wild Card round.

Throughout the year, it certainly seemed like the Bears took the rivalry more personally than the Packers, and that manifested itself on the field.

Green Bay Packers safety Javon Bullard expresses hatred for Chicago Bears

Green Bay Packers safety Javon Bullard celebrates during a football game against the Chicago Bears on Dec. 7, 2025, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis. The Packers defeated the Bears 28-21.

In a recent interview with Tyler Dunne of Go Long, Packers safety Javon Bullard, who lost to the Bears for the first time in his NFL career last year, could not help but express his hatred for nothing only the team, but also the city of Chicago and Coach Johnson:

“Damn, I hate Chicago!” It’s like real hate. I can’t stand Chicago. I don’t know what the hell it is. I don’t like the team. I don’t like their coach. I don’t like sh– about Chicago. Except for their food. I do love their food. But other than that, man? Damn Chicago.”

And on the prospect of facing the Bears again this upcoming season, Bullard said, “We’re going to see them boys — multiple times. They’re going to have to come with it.”

Of course, the Bears did come with it last season, beating Green Bay twice in the span of a month. Perhaps Bullard needs to worry about inspiring this same kind of fire in his own teammates. Maybe then Green Bay would actually show some fight.

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Chicago White Sox reunite with former LHP after Opening Day dud vs Milwaukee Brewers

Robin Adams — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 23:20:46 +0000

The Chicago White Sox saw their pitching staff surrender 14 runs to the Milwaukee Brewers on Opening Day. Additionally, White Sox pitchers issued 10 walks while the hitters struck out 20 times. Clearly, it was not the start the team was hoping for.

As they had an off-day on Friday, the White Sox started scouring the waiver wire for some pitching help. And they found it in the form of one of their own former pitchers.

The Chicago White Sox claim Bryan Hudson off waivers from the New York Mets

MLB: Milwaukee Brewers at San Francisco Giants
Apr 23, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Bryan Hudson (52) throws against the San Francisco Giants in the eighth inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images

On Friday, it was reported that Chicago has claimed left-handed reliever Bryan Hudson off of waivers from the New York Mets:

The Chicago White Sox have claimed left-handed pitcher Bryan Hudson off waivers from the New York Mets.

The White Sox will make a corresponding move prior to tomorrow’s game at Milwaukee.

— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) March 27, 2026

Hudson was originally claimed off of waivers by the White Sox from the Brewers last year. Prior to being waived by Milwaukee, he was 0-1 with a 4.35 ERA. In four games with Chicago after being claimed, he was 0-0 with a 5.79 ERA.

In 2024, while pitching for Milwaukee, Hudson was one of the best relief pitchers in baseball. He appeared in 43 games, went 6-1, and a stellar 1.79 ERA.

As noted in the post from the White Sox social media team, Chicago will be making a corresponding move prior to Saturday’s game against Milwaukee. This means that Hudson will be joining the Major League roster while someone that is already on it will be demoted to Triple-A or designated for assignment.

It is worth noting that many of the hitters that gave the White Sox trouble on Thursday were left-handed.

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Chicago Cubs: Pete Crow-Armstrong credits fans for desire to sign 6-year contract extension

Robin Adams — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 20:47:29 +0000

The Chicago Cubs did not get off to the start that they wanted to in 2026. They dropped their Opening Day game against the Washington Nationals by the score of 10-4. However, over the span of the last few days, they have locked up two of their core players for the long run.

After the Opening Day game was over, it was reported that the Cubs and Gold Glove outfielder Nico Hoerner had agreed to a long-term extension. This news came after Chicago announced that they had signed All-Star center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong to a six-year $115 million contract.

On Friday, Crow-Armstrong addressed the media for the first time since signing his new contract.

Pete Crow-Armstrong praises Chicago Cubs fans

Aug 30, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong (4) hits a single during the third inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images

When Crow-Armstrong spoke to the media on Friday, he was highly complimentary of the Cubs organization and manager Craig Counsell. But he also seemed to indicate that it was the fans in Chicago themselves who made him want to stay right where he was for the long-term.

“I’m most excited about being in Chicago for the next six-plus years, very lucky to be in an amazing city and around the people here,” Crow-Armstrong said.

“This is one of the most unique baseball cities in the world, I would argue that it’s the best. It was the coolest thing for me to learn about Cubs fans and the attention they pay. They’re not quick to turn things negative. It really helps us as players to play in front of people who want to win, but are also just happy to be at the ballpark and watch baseball.”

While Opening Day did not go the way the Cubs wanted it to, it is a 162-game season. They have months of baseball left to play.

And thanks to this extension, and their fans, Chicago will have Crow-Armstrong around for next 1,000+ baseball games.

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Chicago White Sox made dubious MLB history in 14-2 loss to Milwaukee Brewers

Robin Adams — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 19:00:03 +0000

The Chicago White Sox 2026 season did not get off to a good start. In fact, it got off to arguably the worst start imaginable. After a spring full of hope, they fell to the Milwaukee Brewers by the score of 14-2 on Opening Day.

Chase Meidroth led off the game with a solo home run, giving fans false hope that this particular Opening Day game would go their way. Unfortunately, Milwaukee stifled the White Sox offense quickly and effectively for the rest of the day. Munetaka Murakami had his first Major League hit, a home run, later in the game, but it did not make a difference at that point.

In the end, Chicago was on the wrong side of history.

Chicago White Sox make a MLB first on Opening Day vs the Milwaukee Brewers

Mar 26, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Chicago White Sox manager Will Venable tales the ball from pitcher Jordan Hicks (44) as catcher Edgar Quero (26) looks on during a pitching change in the sixth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

It has already been reported that the White Sox helped the Brewers make some history. Led by ace Jacob Misiorowski, Milwaukee struck out 20 Chicago batters, setting a franchise record of strikeouts in a nine-inning game. Misiorowski’s 11 strikeouts are a franchise record for any Opening Day.

Unfortunately, the White Sox made some Major League history themselves:

The White Sox are the only team in MLB history to have a game where the offense struck out 20+ times, got 4 or fewer hits and the pitching staff issued 10+ walks.

— nugget chef (@jayhaykid) March 27, 2026

As one can see from the post above, Chicago is the first team in MLB history to strike out 20 or more times, get four or fewer hits, and see their pitching staff issue at least 10 walks.

Meanwhile, the Brewers struck out only three times and their pitchers issued just five walks (Misiorowski gave up three of them).

All this to say that Opening Day was immensely forgettable for the White Sox.

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Chicago Bears most overpaid player in 2026 identified by NFL analyst

Robin Adams — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 18:37:01 +0000

The Chicago Bears have been busily re-tooling their roster ahead of the 2026 NFL season. In doing so, they have been able to shed tens of millions of dollars in salary cap space, which has allowed them the flexibility to be players in free agency. Additionally, they have set themselves up for the flexibility to necessary to extend their young core, most importantly quarterback Caleb Williams.

As is the case on every NFL team, though, the Bears have money committed to players that have not exactly lived up to the contracts that they have signed.

Dayo Obeyingbo named the most overpaid player on the Chicago Bears

Oct 26, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Tyler Huntley (5) runs with the ball as Chicago Bears defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo (55) chases in the third quarter at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Last year, the Bears signed defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo to a three-year $48 million contract. However, in his first season with Chicago, he only appeared in eight games. And in those eight games, he did not live up to the level of play that the team had expected.

For these reasons, Odeyingbo was declared by Bleacher Report to be Chicago’s most overpaid player:

“The Bears gave Odeyingbo a three-year, $48 million deal last offseason in hopes that he’d take another step forward after back-to-back promising campaigns in Indy. But he struggled in his first eight games, registering just one sack and two tackles for loss before suffering a torn Achilles tendon in Week 9. Far from ideal for a guy who will count $20.5 million against the cap in 2026.”

Unfortunately, Odeyingbo suffered a torn Achilles midway through the season and was unable to have a productive second half of the season. Had he done so, his contract may have been more than justified.

Due to his injury, Chicago is not able to trade him. Furthermore, they cannot cut him because doing so due to his injury would result in them having to guarantee the rest of his contract.

It is not yet known whether or not he will be able to play in 2026. If he does, it will not be until around mid-season.

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Chicago Bears named as sensible trade destination for NFL DPoY Myles Garrett

Robin Adams — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 14:33:49 +0000

The Chicago Bears have been busily re-tooling their roster this off-season. While they have answered multiple questions at various positions, they still are seeking an answer as to how to improve their pass rush.

Earlier this off-season, Chicago was one of the teams rumored to be in the mix for Maxx Crosby. He, however, was traded to the Baltimore Ravens, and then returned to the Las Vegas Raiders due to concerns over his surgically repaired knee. Now, it appears that Crosby and Las Vegas are going to move forward together.

Then, the Bears were rumored to be interested in signing Trey Hendrickson. He, too, went to the Ravens.

There is another dominant pass rusher, though, that soon could be made available.

The Chicago Bears named as a possible trade destination for Myles Garrett

Dec 22, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett (95) warms up before a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images

The situation over with the Cleveland Browns has been bad for years. After Jim Schwartz re-signed as defensive coordinator when he was passed over head coach, many thought that reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett could request a trade.

And the star pass rusher has not done anything to quell those rumors.

If he does demand a trade, Sports Illustrated believes that the Bears would be a destination that makes sense:

“The Bears were on the periphery of the Crosby trade and profile as a team that would like to maximize its time with Caleb Williams while Williams is on his rookie contract. Long-term negotiations with Williams, especially if he continues his ascent under new head coach Ben Johnson, are going to be wildly complex and ground breakingly expensive.

“The best opportunity to win a Super Bowl is now. The Bears had one of the lowest pass rush win rates in the NFL last season, and Garrett is a prototype for succeeding in elements like Soldier Field’s over the long term. Garrett would also be a valuable asset to Williams, having entered the NFL similarly dinged for a slew of outside interests seemingly incongruent with football success.

“Because Chicago plays in one of the better divisions in the NFL, a Garrett trade to the Bears could be an educated bet on the Bears regressing once injuries take their toll (Chicago’s offensive line was remarkably healthy last year, for example) or the Lions, Vikings and Packers improving.”

Obviously, adding Garrett would be a major upgrade to Chicago’s defense. He set the single-season sack record last season with 23.0, and is quickly emerging as one of the best defensive players the game has ever seen.

That being said, acquiring Garrett is going to cost an incredible price. Crosby was originally thought to have been dealt for two first round picks, and getting the reigning Defensive Player of the Year would cost at least twice that much.

Still, if he does demand a trade away from the Browns, the Bears would certainly make sense as a potential destination.

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Chicago White Sox: Luis Robert Jr. takes shot at former team prior to Mets debut

Robin Adams — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 13:04:32 +0000

Early this past off-season the Chicago White Sox traded former All-Star center fielder Luis Robert Jr. to the New York Mets. In return, they received Luisangel Acuna, who made the Opening Day roster and replaced Robert in center field. The trade followed many frustrating years in which Chicago waited patiently for Robert to find his swing.

In 2023, Robert hit .264/.315/.542 with 38 home runs, 80 RBI, and 20 stolen bases. He made the AL All-Star team, won the Silver Slugger, and finished 12th in AL MVP voting.

But over the next two seasons, he hit just .223/.288/.372 while averaging 14 home runs and 44 RBI a year. He also averaged 28 stolen bases a year, but his overall production plummeted.

Luis Robert Jr. took a shot at the Chicago White Sox on Opening Day

Aug 23, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago White Sox outfielder Luis Robert Jr. (88) gestures after he hits a home run during the eighth inning against the Minnesota Twins at Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images

Robert made the Opening Day roster for the Mets, as expected. Before his first game in New York, he was asked by the media about his excitement level for playing in front of their fans. In his answer, he took a shot at the White Sox and fans in Chicago:

Luis Robert Jr: “I am sure that Thursday the stadium is going to be packed, which is something that over the last few years in Chicago I didn’t get to experience that. It’s going to be a new experience for me.”

— Mike Puma (@NYPost_Mets) March 26, 2026

The White Sox, of course, did not win very many games during Robert’s last two seasons in Chicago. Attendance was down, and he believes he will, for the first time in his career, play in front of bigger crowds.

To add to his insult, Robert went 2-4 with two RBI and a run scored in his Mets debut. New York won 11-7.

Chicago, meanwhile, went down 14-2 against the Milwaukee Brewers.

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Chicago Cubs: Matt Shaw named team’s biggest “unknown” of the 2026 MLB season

Robin Adams — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 21:30:42 +0000

The Chicago Cubs made one of the biggest signings of the Major League Baseball off-season by inking Alex Bregman to a five-year $175 million contract. While adding his bat will help ease the loss of outfielder Kyle Tucker, and his glove is good enough for the best defensive infield in baseball, it did leave Chicago with a big question.

That is, what are they going to do with Matt Shaw?

Last season, Shaw emerged as the Cubs everyday third baseman and hit .226/.295/.394 with 13 home runs, 44 RBI, and 19 stolen bases. His production was good enough to earn him a ninth-place finish in NL Rookie of the Year voting.

It was not good enough, however, to earn him a fixed spot in Chicago’s lineup.

What are the Chicago Cubs going to do with Matt Shaw?

Sep 19, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Cubs third baseman Matt Shaw (6) reacts after hitting a two-run home run in the fourth inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

The fact of the matter is that Shaw’s glove and offensive ceiling are just too good to keep out of the lineup every day. He is still young and his swing is still developing, but he has all the makings of a very useful and productive Major League player.

But how are the Cubs going to get him enough at-bats to reach that ceiling? That question is why MLB.com made him Chicago’s biggest unknown of the 2026 season:

“Shaw was the Cubs’ regular at third base in ‘25 and ended the year with some down-ballot Rookie of the Year votes and as a finalist for a Gold Glove Award. When the Cubs signed Alex Bregman, Shaw was asked to move off third and try his hand at being a super sub for both the infield and outfield.

“The 24-year-old Shaw is athletic enough to play all over the field, but there were ups and downs this spring as he learned new positions. Offensively, Shaw also had an up-and-down showing last year, posting a .556 OPS in the first half and an .839 OPS after the All-Star break. Shaw is hoping to be a steady part of the lineup in ‘26, so it will be interesting to see how the Cubs try to make that happen.”

Clearly, the Cubs would much prefer to have the bat Shaw displayed in the second half of last season as opposed to the first half. They have given him some reps in the outfield this spring, but he is still mastering his defense there.

Regardless, Chicago needs to find a way to get him in the lineup more days than not, and bring him in as a pinch hitter, perhaps, if they cannot have him starting.

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Chicago White Sox: MLB insider identifies team’s greatest unknown for the 2026 MLB season

Robin Adams — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 19:00:06 +0000

The Chicago White Sox are set to take on the Milwaukee Brewers in their first series of the 2026 MLB season. It will kick off what is sure to be another rebuilding season on the south side. Unlike in previous years, though, there is a great deal of optimism regarding the direction of the team.

In 2025, the White Sox won just 60 games. However, that was a 19-win improvement from 2024. There are those that believe the team is not all that far off from being a contender.

That being said, Chicago needs to answer quite a few questions with their play in 2026, and one of the greatest unknowns regards their biggest off-season addition.

Munetaka Murakami named the Chicago White Sox greatest unknown

Feb 20, 2026; Mesa, Arizona, USA; Chicago White Sox third baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) hits a single against the Chicago Cubs in the third inning at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

That addition, of course, is first baseman Munetaka Murakami, who signed a two-year $34 million deal with the White Sox after a successful eight-year career in Japan. Chicago landing the Japanese slugger took many by surprise, as they did not originally believe that the White Sox would be in the market for him.

However, Murakami’s high strikeout totals in Japan (he once struck out 180 times in one season) gave many Major League teams pause despite his high home run totals.

And it is his propensity to strike out that made him MLB.com‘s biggest unknown for the White Sox:

“Murakami is the biggest impact addition made by the White Sox during this current rebuild and the most accomplished player from the Pacific Rim to ever join the franchise. But there’s still a question as to how his skills will translate when coming to Major League Baseball.

“He not only has to adjust to a new league but a new country. The White Sox are helping forge a smooth transition, and Murakami is a tireless worker with a very regimented routine. If he takes off offensively, the White Sox could follow as a team.”

Indeed, Murakami’s bat has the potential to carry the White Sox to heights that they have not reached for years. The big question, though, is whether or not his game will translate to the Major Leagues. Japan has produced Hall of Fame stars like Ichiro, and future Hall of Fame talent like Shohei Ohtani.

But will Murakami reach that level, or will be end up a disappointment? There is only one way to find out:

Play the games.

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Chicago Cubs: Pete Crow-Armstrong contract details revealed with interesting pay structure

Robin Adams — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 17:00:18 +0000

The Chicago Cubs have locked up their brightest young star, Pete Crow-Armstrong, to a six-year contract worth $115 million. The extension does not begin until the 2027 season, so he is locked into Chicago through the 2032 season. This year, Crow-Armstrong is playing on his pre-arbitration salary, which means he is getting paid $894,000. However, he also was given a $5 million signing bonus for 2026, giving him a wage of $5.894 million.

Last year, the Cubs approached Crow-Armstrong about signing a long-term contract extension. It is said to have been worth about $66 million. He turned it down hoping to earn a larger offer in the future. Clearly, it worked out for him.

Pete Crow-Armstrong contract details with the Chicago Cubs revealed

Crow-Armstrong’s contract, as stated, is a six-year deal worth $115 million, giving him an annual salary of $19 million. However, he is not going to be paid exactly $19 million in any of the contract’s six seasons.

According to Mark Feinsand, the Cubs have structured Crow-Armstrong’s deal so that he gets salary bumps every few years:

PCA contract details, per source:

$5M Signing Bonus
2027-29: $10M
2030: $20M
2031-32: $30M

— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) March 25, 2026

As referenced above, $5 million of the extension is being applied to the 2026 season as a signing bonus. Then, he will be paid $10 million a year in 2027, 2028, and 2029.

2030 will see Crow-Armstrong getting paid $20 million, and then he will earn $30 million a year in 2031 and 2032.

The Cubs center fielder is coming off a season in which he hit .247/.287/.481 with 31 home runs, 95 RBI, and 35 stolen bases. If he can cut down on his strikeouts and improve his on-base percentage, $30 million a year for him in 2031 and 2032 will be an absolute steal by the time those years roll around.

What will be interesting to see, and this is true for all MLB contracts, is how teams and players view them if there is a lockout in 2027. If there is no season, his contract could be bumped to 2033.

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Chicago White Sox: MLB analyst has high hopes for Munetaka Murakami in 2026

Robin Adams — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 16:00:26 +0000

The Chicago White Sox made one of the biggest surprise signings of the MLB off-season when they landed Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami. Indeed, very few, if anyone, believed that the White Sox would be in the market for such a high-profile player.

However, interest in Murakami did not materialize to the level that many expected. It would seem that many teams were hesitant to sign him because of his high strikeout numbers in Japan. As a result, Chicago was able to get him for two years and $34 million.

While his strikeout numbers were high, so were his home run totals. As such, he could provide a much-needed power injection into the White Sox lineup.

Chicago White Sox star Munetaka Murakami predicted to win Rookie of the Year

Mar 17, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Chicago White Sox third baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) hits against the Athletics in the third inning at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

In his first professional in 2018 season in Japan at 18 years old, Murakami hit .281/.383/.485 with 18 home runs, 72 RBI, and 16 stolen bases. It was just the beginning of what would be a great professional career (up to this point).

Four years later, at the age of 22, Murakami hit .318/.458/.710 with 56 home runs and 134 RBI.

Indeed, his strikeout totals may have been high, but he still hit for a high average and got on base regularly. If he can continue doing so, ESPN believes he could win the American League Rookie of the Year Award:

“Murakami will be a bedrock player in the middle of the White Sox lineup from the season’s outset, and if he stays healthy and mashes 25 to 30 dingers, he’ll get some support.”

Last season, the White Sox won 19 more games than they did in 2024. It was still only 60 wins, but that was much better than 41.

If Murakami can help lead Chicago to another 19-win improvement in 2026, he could win the Rookie of the Year Award quite easily.

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Chicago Cubs rivalry with Milwaukee Brewers named top 12 storyline of 2026 season

Robin Adams — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 14:45:24 +0000

The Chicago Cubs are one of the baseball world’s early picks to compete for and win the World Series in 2026. They have made a big free agent splash, orchestrated a major trade, and have rebuilt their bullpen in an effort to get there. A day before their first regular season game, they have many people buzzing in regard to their chances.

But these things are similar to what they have done in each of the past few years. In each of the last three years, the Cubs have finished second in the National League Central Division… to the Milwaukee Brewers.

Indeed, the Cubs versus Brewers rivalry has become intense over the course of the last two years especially, and it all came to a head in the postseason last year.

The Chicago Cubs rivalry with the Milwaukee Brewers named a top MLB storyline

Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner (2) homers (1) on a fly ball to left field during the eighth inning of the National League Division Series game against the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday October 4, 2025 at American Family Field in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Chicago and Milwaukee have been fierce rivals ever since the Brewers made the move from the American League to the National League. This rivalry intensified prior to the 2024 season when the Cubs hired Craig Counsell away from Milwaukee.

Over the course of the last years, Cubs and Brewers matchups have seemed to mean more, especially to the fans in Milwaukee. But it would appear that the national media has taken notice, too. In his article in which he lists the 12 biggest storylines of the 2026 MLB season, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic listed the Chicago v. Milwaukee rivalry:

“Here we go again. The Cubs loaded up by signing third baseman Alex Bregman, trading for righty Edward Cabrera and remaking their bullpen. The Brewers pared down by trading their ace, righty Freddy Peralta, and the third- and fourth-place finishers for NL Rookie of the Year, third baseman Caleb Durbin and outfielder Isaac Collins.

“Will it matter? Does it ever matter?

“Prior to the 2024 season, the Cubs lured Craig Counsell from the Brewers by awarding him a five-year, $40 million contract, a record total for a manager. Since then, the Brewers have won two more division titles, making it four in five seasons. And Counsell’s replacement, Pat Murphy, twice has won NL Manager of the Year.

“Every year, people like me predict the Brewers’ demise. Every year, the Crew defies expectations. Their rotation without Peralta looks vulnerable, but the same was true at the start of last season, and Milwaukee won 97 games, most in the majors.

“The Brewers … remain the division’s standard. Just ask the Cubs.”

While many experts are picking the Cubs to win the division, they are doing so cautiously, stating that the Brewers have proved everyone wrong before and that it would not be a surprise if they do so again.

Therefore, it is up to the Cubs to make sure that surprise does not happen.

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Chicago Cubs: Michael Busch predicted to become 10th player in franchise history to accomplish this feat

Robin Adams — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 21:50:16 +0000

The Chicago Cubs have accumulated some great young homegrown talent to form the foundation of their 2026 MLB roster. Indeed, looking all over the diamond, All-Star caliber players can be found that came up within Chicago’s farm system.

A few others started their careers elsewhere, but found more success playing in a Cubs uniform. One of these is first baseman Michael Busch, who burst onto the scene last year by mashing 34 home runs, besting his previous career-high of 21.

Busch has, understandably, emerged as Chicago’s everyday first baseman, and ESPN thinks he may do something in 2026 that no Cubs first baseman has done in over 20 years.

ESPN predicts Chicago Cubs first baseman Michael Busch will hit 40+ home runs

MLB: St. Louis Cardinals at Chicago Cubs Jul 4, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs first baseman Michael Busch (29) rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run against the St. Louis Cardinals during the seventh inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

In their recent article in which they gave a realistic bold prediction for each Major League club, ESPN predicted that Busch will take an even bigger step in his power production and hit over 40 home runs in 2026:

“This is a little surprising given Wrigley Field has historically been a great home run park, but only nine Cubs players have hit 40 home runs in a season (for a total of 19 times, including seven from Sammy Sosa and five from Ernie Banks). The only first baseman to do it was Derrek Lee with 46 in 2005. Michael Busch joins the club with 41 home runs and has the first 150 OPS+ by a Cubs hitter since Anthony Rizzo in 2014.”

If Busch is able to mash 40 home runs, he would become just the first first baseman to do so for the Cubs in over 20 years. He would also become just the 10th player in franchise history to hit that many.

Not only is Derek Lee the only first baseman in Cubs history to hit 40+ home runs in a season, he is also the last player at any position to do it with the franchise.

Busch could really cement himself in Cubs lore by fulfilling this prophecy.

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Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell predicted to finally earn long-deserved recognition in 2026

Robin Adams — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 20:30:34 +0000

The Chicago Cubs are entering the third season of the Craig Counsell Era. After finishing the 2023 season 83-79 and in second place behind the Counsell-led Milwaukee Brewers, the Cubs shocked everyone in baseball by luring him away from what he had called his hometown team.

Indeed, Counsell grew up in the Milwaukee area and still resides there as his children attend high school in the area. Getting him to leave Milwaukee was an absolute shock.

Prior to leaving the Brewers, Counsell became the winningest manager in that franchise’s history, ushering in an era of competitiveness the city had not seen since the 1980’s. Yet, he never won a National League Manager of the Year Award.

Chicago Cubs skipper Craig Counsell predicted to win NL Manager of the Year

Mar 31, 2025; West Sacramento, California, USA; Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell (11) before the game against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images

In an ironic twist of fate, Pat Murphy, who replaced Counsell as manager in Milwaukee, has been named the NL Manager of the Year in each of the past two seasons. Meanwhile, the Cubs skipper still seeks his first such honor.

ESPN, though, thinks he will win it this year:

“Counsell has now finished in the top four of NL Manager of the Year balloting six times without winning the award — all he has gotten for his trouble is a high-profile job and a record-setting contract. Is it possible at this point that Counsell could earn support because of a career recognition factor? The prerequisite is for the Cubs to have another strong season, of course. But doesn’t it seem like Counsell has to win this award at some point?”

Last year, Counsell led the Cubs to a 92-70 record and [another] second place finish in the National League Central Division. If he is able to lead Chicago to a division title, one would have to assume that he would finally win the award that has alluded him for so many years.

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Chicago White Sox are being sued by franchise legend Frank Thomas

Robin Adams — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 16:30:49 +0000

There are few players in Chicago White Sox history as respected and beloved as Hall of Fame first baseman/designated hitter Frank Thomas. The “Big Hurt” played 16 seasons of his 18-year in Chicago and smashed 448 of his 521 career home runs wearing a White Sox uniform.

Unfortunately, it is that same White Sox uniform that he donned so well for so many years that has suddenly become the source of conflict between the legendary slugger and the team.

Frank Thomas is suing the Chicago White Sox

1996, Cleveland, OH, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago White Sox first baseman Frank Thomas in action at the plate against the Cleveland Indians at Jacobs Field during the 1996 season. Mandatory Credit: RVR Photos-USA TODAY Sports

According to multiple reports, Thomas is suing the White Sox, as well as multiple jersey manufacturers, for selling city connect jerseys with his name and number on them. He has not received any form of payment for the use of his name.

Per Fox 32:

“Thomas filed the lawsuit March 19 in Cook County Circuit Court, alleging violations of the Illinois Right of Publicity Act.

“The complaint claimed companies including Nike, Fanatics and the White Sox sold ‘City Connect 2.0’ jerseys featuring Thomas’ name and his No. 35 beginning in April 2025 without his consent or compensation.

“According to the filing, the jerseys were marketed and sold with team branding while using Thomas’ identity for commercial gain.

“Thomas argued he has not had a contract with the companies allowing use of his name and likeness and has not received payment tied to the merchandise sales.”

Here is a social media post depicting the jerseys that are the subject of the lawsuit:

Frank Thomas is suing the Chicago White Sox, Nike and Fanatics for selling City Connect jerseys using his name without receiving his permission or compensating him for it, per @royalpratt pic.twitter.com/XlMVXhyr6n

— Jomboy Media (@JomboyMedia) March 24, 2026

As Fox notes, the lawsuit was filed last week on March 19. Undoubtedly, this process will drag on for months before there is a resolution.

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Chicago Bears urged to trade for future Hall of Famer to protect Caleb Williams in 2026

Robin Adams — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 14:56:48 +0000

The Chicago Bears have been busy assembling their roster for the 2026 NFL season. Following the sudden retirement of Pro Bowl center Drew Dalman, they acquired Garrett Bradbury to replace him. In order to do that, they traded away wide receiver DJ Moore to the New England Patriots.

Trading away Moore benefits the Bears two ways. First, they got their replacement at center. Second, moving Moore opens up more opportunities for their younger core of pass catchers.

But while their receiving room is still solid, the offensive line still has questions. This is particularly true at left tackle, the most important position on the line.

Chicago Bears urged to trade for future Hall of Fame left tackle Trent Williams

Jan 11, 2026; Philadelphia, PA, USA; San Francisco 49ers offensive tackle Trent Williams (71) celebrates win against the Philadelphia Eagles in an NFC Wild Card Round game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

Left tackle, of course, is vital to any team with a right-handed quarterback because they protect the blindside. Caleb Williams, as the Bears franchise quarterback, must be protected from pass rushers that he cannot see.

Unfortunately, starting left tackle Ozzy Trapilo tore his patellar tendon in the NFL Playoffs and may not be able to play in 2026. Braxton Jones was brought back on a one-year deal, but Chicago would probably prefer to use him as a swing tackle as opposed to a regular starting left tackle.

As such, The Sporting News urged the Bears to look into trading for future Pro Football Hall of Famer Trent Williams:

“With the Bears having Super Bowl aspirations in 2026, it’s not crazy to think Chicago wouldn’t mind bringing in a future Hall of Famer to protect Caleb Williams’ blindside.”

Williams made the Pro Bowl, the 12th of his career, in 2025 and was named Second Team All-Pro. He also is a three-time First Team All-Pro selection.

The San Francisco 49ers recently declined Williams’ $10 million option on his contract, which means 2026 will be the final year of his deal. If he decides he wants more guarantees and asks for a trade, Chicago could be very interested, given the fact that they believe they can compete for a Super Bowl next season.

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Chicago Cubs: Pete Crow-Armstrong extension teaches inspiring “bet on yourself” lesson

Robin Adams — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 14:00:36 +0000

The Chicago Cubs have many bright young stars on their roster. Perhaps none of them are as bright, though, as center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong. Last year, he became the first Cubs player since Sammy Sosa to have a 30-home run and 3-stolen base season.

He is also under club control until 2031 and not arbitration eligible until 2027. But with so much uncertain regarding whether or not there will even be a season in 2027, and not knowing what the salary cap will be (if there is a harder one placed on teams, eventually), Chicago wanted to make sure they can retain their star for the long haul.

Pete Crow-Armstrong turned down a contract extension in 2025

Last night, news was buzzing that Crow-Armstrong and the Cubs are finalizing a lucrative long-term extension. While the details have not yet been announced, it is assumed that it will be worth well over $100 million. He will probably be the second-highest paid player on the team behind Alex Bregman.

This is, of course, well-deserved, but also a lesson in the benefit of betting on one’s self. According to Mark Feinsand, the Cubs approached their star center fielder about a contract extension last year:

Last April, the Cubs approached Crow-Armstrong about a long-term extension that would have maxed out ~$75 million if all option years had been exercised.

The deal the two sides are closing in on should be worth far more after PCA’s 6.0-WAR, All-Star & Gold Glove 2025 season.

— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) March 24, 2026

As one can see from the post above, the offer Chicago made to Crow-Armstrong was worth $66 million and maxed out at $75 million, though the length of the proposed contract was not given.

Of course, he turned it down.

PCA went on to hit .247/.287/.481 with 31 home runs, 95 RBI, and 35 stolen bases last season. He won the Gold Glove in center field and was named a National League All-Star.

Clearly, the Cubs think that this is just the beginning for PCA and want to keep him around beyond his arbitration years.

Now they will, and he is cashing in.

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Chicago Cubs 2026 Opening Day 5-man starting rotation appears set

Robin Adams — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 23:00:21 +0000

The Chicago Cubs are days away from kicking off the 2026 MLB season with a three-game series against the Washington Nationals. They have spent the past several weeks in Arizona for Spring Training. During that time, they have answered many questions regarding the make-up of their roster.

One of the last questions to be answered, as is the case for most teams every year, is what five pitchers will make up their starting rotation.

Despite a plethora of quality candidates, it appears that the Cubs have finally settled on who their initial starting-five will be.

The Chicago Cubs seem to have figured out their Opening Day starting rotation

Oct 4, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Matthew Boyd (16) reacts after being taken out of the game against the Milwaukee Brewers during the first inning of game one of the NLDS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at American Family Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

It has been known for several days now that 2025 All-Star Matthew Boyd will be Chicago’s Opening Day starter. This decision was somewhat unpopular among fans. Many of them wanted to see Cade Horton get a chance to start on Opening Day, especially after Boyd struggled in the World Baseball Classic.

Of course, Horton is making the Opening Day roster for the first time in his career, and his spot in the rotation appears to be cemented.

Based on previous roster moves, the following five pitchers appear set to make up the Cubs’ initial starting rotation.

Matthew Boyd

2025 stats: 14-8, 3.21 ERA, 1.09 WHIP, 31 starts, 154 strikeouts, 172.9 innings

Cade Horton

2025 stats: 11-4, 2.67 ERA, 1.09 WHIP, 23 games (22 stats), 97 strikeouts, 118.0 innings

Shota Imanaga

2025 stats: 9-8, 3.73 ERA, 0.99 WHIP, 25 starts, 117 strikeouts, 144.2 innings

Edward Cabrera

2025 stats (with the Miami Marlins): 8-7, 3.53 ERA, 1,23 WHIP, 26 starts, 150 strikeouts, 137.2 innings

Jameson Taillon

2025 stats: 11-7, 3.68 ERA, 1,06 WHIP, 23 starts, 98 strikeouts, 129.2 innings pitched.

As can be seen, on paper, this is an excellent starting rotation. Justin Steele is going to return at some point this season as well, and will fill in for whoever is injured or under-performing at that point.

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Chicago White Sox: Munetaka Murakami signing heralded as sign team will compete for division crown soon

Robin Adams — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 17:47:56 +0000

The Chicago White Sox landing Munetaka Murakami was one of the biggest surprises of the 2026 MLB off-season. After winning just 60 games in 2025, no one thought they would be big players in free agency at all. Yet, they were able to land the biggest free agent coming out of Japan.

To be fair, Murakami’s market did not really materialize the way many expected it to. While he has an impressive power bat, his strikeout totals in Japan were highly concerning to Major League teams. As a result, Chicago was able to land him on a short two-year deal worth $34 million.

But the fact that they were even in the market for Murakami is a great sign for White Sox fans.

The Munetaka Murakami signing hints the Chicago White Sox expect to compete very soon

MLB insiders and analysts from ESPN recently put together an article in which they detailed the off-season moves that were the most shocking. They included the White Sox signing Murakami because, according to them, it signals that Chicago intends to compete for an American League Division title either this year or next:

“Given the lack of power in the Chicago lineup and the need for a first baseman, it’s a worthy roll of the dice for the White Sox. There’s a chance he’s a Kyle Schwarber-like hitter with lots of home runs, walks and strikeouts, and the White Sox get a middle-of-the-order hitter to anchor a young lineup.

“And if the strikeouts pile up? Fine, the two-year commitment means there’s no long-term risk here. It was a surprise move given the White Sox lost 102 games in 2025, but they took advantage of the soft market for Murakami and can be interpreted as a sign the organization thinks it can compete for the division soon — if not 2026, then 2027.”

In eight professional seasons in Japan, Murakami struck out 1,068 times. However, he also had a career on-base percentage of .373 because of his propensity to take walks too.

The fact that he also averaged over 30 home runs a season is why MLB teams were interested in him in the first place. If he can bring that power over to MLB, his strikeouts won’t matter as much.

As ESPN notes, Kyle Schwarber strikes out a great deal, but is also one of the league’s biggest stars because of his power and ability to get on base via walk.

If Murakami ends up being that kind of player, the White Sox will be in a great position.

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Chicago Cubs: MLB analyst says Alex Bregman signing may not be enough in 2026

Robin Adams — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 16:30:15 +0000

The Chicago Cubs did not even really attempt to bring back outfielder Kyle Tucker once the 2025 season ended. He ended up signing a massive four-year $240 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, a contract the Cubs certainly could not afford. However, they were still left having to figure out how to replace his batting line of .266/.377/.464 with 22 home runs, 73 RBI, and 25 stolen bases.

They attempted to do so by signing free agent third baseman Alex Bregman to a five-year $175 million contract. While playing for the Boston Red Sox in 2025, he hit .273/.360/.462 with 18 home runs and 62 RBI.

On paper, the Bregman signing does not seem to be enough to replace Tucker’s offense, and ESPN seems to think the Cubs could be in for a rude awakening in 2026.

Chicago Cubs signing Alex Bregman said to have shaken up MLB

Feb 25, 2026; Mesa, Arizona, USA; Chicago Cubs third baseman Alex Bregman (3) hits a single against the Colorado Rockies in the first inning at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

With the start of the 2026 MLB season just days away, ESPN released an article in which they listed the off-season moves they felt shook up the league. They included the Cubs signing of Bregman, but warned that it may not have the desired effect:

“It’s now or never for the Cubs in the NL Central. Beaten out by Milwaukee the past several years, Chicago has built its most complete roster since the one that won the 2016 World Series. Bregman’s addition should push them over the top, but then again, many thought that of last year’s squad after adding Kyle Tucker.

“The Cubs couldn’t match the run Milwaukee made last year after being atop the division for the first two months. Signing Bregman should signal a changing of the guard in the NL Central, but the Brewers have earned the benefit of the doubt — at least at this moment.”

Now, there is a great deal of good things said about the signing, how Bregman’s leadership is going to be immensely beneficial on a young Cubs roster. His defense is also praised as he joins multiple Gold Glove winners on one of the best infields in the game.

But as is stated, everyone thought Tucker would be enough to push the Cubs past the Brewers in 2025, and he was not. At least to start the year, it does not appear that Bregman will be enough either.

That is, he can certainly prove everyone wrong by returning to hitting 30-40 home runs a year in hitter-friendly Wrigley Field.

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Chicago Cubs 2026 record prediction sees them finishing in an all-too-familiar position

Robin Adams — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 15:30:11 +0000

The Chicago Cubs are starting the 2026 MLB regular season this week as they wrap up Spring Training. Indeed, there is a great deal to like about this year’s roster, including the fact that top prospect, Moises Ballesteros, has already been told he made the Opening Day roster.

That being said, there are quite a few questions that remain unanswered. Is the starting rotation going to be good enough? Will the Cubs miss Kyle Tucker, whom they lost in free agency over the winter?

These questions, along with others, have some thinking that Chicago may have to wait a little longer before reclaiming the National League Central Division.

Chicago Cubs predicted to finish 2nd in the NL Central (again)

Mar 31, 2025; West Sacramento, California, USA; Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell (11) before the game against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images

Tim Kelly of Bleacher Report recently released an article in which he predicted the 2026 record for each MLB team. And while he had the three-time reigning NL Central champion Milwaukee Brewers winning seven-fewer games than they did in 2025, he still picked them to win the division.

As for Chicago, he, once again, has them coming in second:

“Cubs fans should be excited that the team added Bregman, but while he is considered one of the best leaders in the sport, he’s probably a worse player at this point than Kyle Tucker, who Jed Hoyer and company made no effort to re-sign this winter.

“Once again, the Cubs feel like a lineup where there’s a lot of good, with pieces like Bregman, Seiya Suzuki, Michael Busch, Pete Crow-Armstrong and Ian Happ. But is there a superstar that can consistently carry Craig Counsell’s lineup? That’s fair to wonder.

“There also seem to be a wide variance of possible outcomes for the starting rotation. Will Shota Imanaga pitch more like he did in 2024 than 2025? Can Matthew Boyd replicate the career-year he had at 34 years old? Will Cabrera stay healthy? A rotation that also will include Cade Horton and Jameson Taillon has a high ceiling, but it’s not difficult to imagine things going south, either.

“Overall, the Cubs feel like a good team, but owner Tom Ricketts doesn’t flex the financial muscle of the organization nearly enough, which is why they seem more likely to be an 89-win club than a 99-win one.”

Prediction: 89-73 (Over)

His projection has the Cubs finishing one game behind the Brewers. This is not anything new, though. Chicago has finished second behind Milwaukee in each of the past three seasons.

Indeed, Kelly does point out some serious concerns. While the Cubs are poised to have a potent lineup, how good can they really be? Alex Bregman, the big free agent signing, is expected to improve his offensive production from last season.

But he may not, and he certainly may not out-produce Tucker, whose bat he is replacing.

The starting rotation, too, is basing its hopes for success on Matthew Boyd, who struggled in the WBC, and Shota Imanaga, who is looking to bounce back in 2026 after a disappointing 2025.

Undoubtedly, the Cubs are going to win a lot of games this season. The big question, though, is if they will win enough.

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Chicago White Sox projected win-total points to minor improvement in 2026

Robin Adams — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 12:24:54 +0000

The Chicago White Sox have had two of the worst seasons in Major League Baseball history in back-to-back years. The good news, though, is that after winning just 41 games in 2024, they improved in 2025 by winning 60 games. Of course, that means they still lost 102 contests, but improvement is improvement.

As the White Sox prepare to start the 2026 MLB season, there is hope that they will, once again, show some improvement. However, their latest win projection for 2026 shows that the improvements fans may want to see are still a year or two away.

Chicago White Sox over/under set at 67.5

Tim Kelly of Bleacher Report recently released his win projections for each Major League team in 2026. And while he does see Chicago taking a step forward, it is not that big of one.

“Make no mistake, the White Sox are still a few years away. But where there wasn’t anything to be excited about two seasons ago, you can start to see the makings of a core with Chase Meidroth, Colson Montgomery, Munetaka Murakami, Kyle Teel and Shane Smith. General manager Chris Getz also added two experienced veterans this offseason with outfielder Austin Hays and reliever Seranthony Domínguez, who can be the adults in the room.

“There’s still quite a bit of pitching development that needs to take place on the South Side, but there finally appears to be some light at the end of the tunnel for the Chi Sox.”

Prediction: 66-96 (Under)

As one can see, Kelly predicts that the White Sox will win 66 games in 2026, a six-game improvement from their 2025 win total.

However, while that is not much of an improvement, Kelly states that brighter days are, indeed, ahead in Chicago.

To be fair, they could not get much worse after a 41-121 season in 2024. However, their 19-game win improvement in 2025 was a massive step in the right direction.

66 wins in 2026 would not be as big of a step forward, but it would be a step nonetheless. With how good the White Sox offense has looked in Spring Training, it is not that far of a stretch to say that they will go as far as their pitching staff will take them.

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Chicago Cubs: Craig Counsell reveals what role Moises Ballesteros will have on 2026 Opening Day roster

Robin Adams — Sat, 21 Mar 2026 12:08:45 +0000

The Chicago Cubs are days away from beginning the 2026 MLB season. Over the last several weeks, they have been figuring out their roster as the team participated in Spring Training. Some of their players, too, participated in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, getting valuable experience in high-leverage games.

Unfortunately, however, slugging outfielder Seiya Suzuki suffered a knee injury while representing Team Japan in the WBC. It is not yet known how long he will be forced to be out because of it.

Chicago already faces a challenge in replacing the offensive presence of Kyle Tucker, who signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers in free agency. And while the signing of Alex Bregman is hopefully going to make up for that loss, the Cubs now have to find a way to fill the gap left by Suzuki, who hit 32 home runs and drove in 103 runs.

For the start of the season, at least, it sounds like they will be looking to Moises Ballesteros to help.

Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell reveals role Moises Ballesteros will have in 2026

Mar 13, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Chicago Cubs first baseman Moises Ballesteros against the Chicago White Sox during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

On Friday, manager Craig Counsell revealed that Ballesteros had been informed that he had made the Opening Day roster. However, with the Cubs fairly well set at catcher and first base, the two positions Ballesteros plays, the Chicago manager said that their top prospect will play primarily as the designated hitter:

“He’s going to DH for us a pretty significant amount to start the season. He has earned that, is the best way to say it. When you have a player that has [Minor League] options and it’s a young player, you’ve got to kind of beat down the door to get yourself in the lineup. And so, Moisés has earned that opportunity.

“You almost have to do a little more to get that opportunity, and I think he has. He’s shown us through his stint last year and through what he’s continued to do this spring that he deserves at-bats. And he’s going to get some.”

In 11 games played in Spring Training, Ballesteros is hitting .355/.394/.613 with two home runs and eight RBI. In 20 games in the Majors last season, his first taste of the Big Leagues, he hit 298/.394/.474 with two homers, two doubles, one triple and 11 RBI.

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Chicago Cubs get picked in the top 3 of annual “World Series” draft

Robin Adams — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 13:37:32 +0000

The Chicago Cubs are entering the 2026 MLB season with one goal in mind: winning the World Series. With so many players not under contract for the 2027 season, the 2026 season is likely going to be the last go around for many on the roster.

Per Mark Feinsand, “With more than 40 percent of the roster potentially headed to the open market in the fall, the 2027 Cubs are almost certain to have a drastically different look than this year’s iteration. ”

And so, 2026 is one in which the Cubs are almost certainly gunning for a World Series, and certain MLB analysts think they have a great chance of winning it.

MLB analysts pick the Chicago Cubs third in their annual World Series winner draft

Mar 7, 2026; Mesa, Arizona, USA; Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner (2) hits an RBI single against the Athletics in the single inning at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

Every year, MLB.com analysts Will Leitch and Mike Petriello take turns picking teams in a “World Series draft.” In it, they take turns picking teams they think have the best chance to win the World Series. The Los Angles Dodgers were picked first, and the Seattle Mariners were picked second.

But then they picked the Cubs third:

“I am not blind to the fact that the Brewers are the three-time NL Central champions, and that the Cubs haven’t actually won their division in a full season since way back in 2017. And yet: I picked Chicago here, not Milwaukee. It wouldn’t be a season preview if someone wasn’t out here failing to fully respect Milwaukee, right? Why should this year be any different?

“Part of this is that winning the division isn’t a requirement for winning the World Series, so even if the Cubs finish second again, they could still get the ring, but also I’m encouraged by what I’ve seen of Shota Imanaga this spring, and I have hope they can unlock Edward Cabrera a bit. The lackluster rotation has had me down on this team the last few seasons – and I regret to say that I do not share everyone’s optimism about Cade Horton – but it’s at least deeper. The defense is great. They should hit.

“I have to admit, though: It’s very uncomfortable picking this team this high. You could probably order teams 3-13 here in any way you like. I sure hope Seiya Suzuki is healthy, though. We couldn’t have waited another day, Will?”

As one can see, the Cubs were picked high despite the analysts’ worry about the true quality of the pitching staff. That being said, they also did not pick the Brewers until 13th.

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Chicago Cubs: Seiya Suzuki top-10 right field ranking reveals how dire injury situation is

Robin Adams — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 20:49:00 +0000

The Chicago Cubs are hoping that they can snap their streak of not winning the National League Central Division in 2026. After seeing the Milwaukee Brewers win the division in each of the past three seasons, the Cubs are on a mission this year to retake the crown.

In order to accomplish this, they have put together a group of players that rivals most Major League Baseball teams. Indeed, young stars can be found all of the diamond and batting order. Additionally, Alex Bregman was brought in to play third base and replace the power bat Chicago lost when Kyle Tucker signed with the Los Angles Dodgers.

This all being said, there is a cloud hovering over the Cubs’ clubhouse in the form of the Seiya Suzuki injury.

Chicago Cubs slugger Seiya Suzuki named the 6th-best right fielder in baseball

May 12, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki (27) runs after he hits a two run home run against the Miami Marlins during the fifth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images

Suzuki injured his knee while playing for Team Japan in the World Baseball Classic. In their loss to Team Venezuela, Suzuki came up lame after sliding into second base. He has already had an MRI after returning to Arizona, but the Cubs have not made the results of that test public.

If Chicago is going to have to be without Suzuki for any amount of time in 2026, it will be a tough loss to overcome. Bleacher Report recently named him the sixth-best right fielder in all baseball:

“Suzuki had an .867 OPS with 25 home runs and 77 RBI during the first half last season, and he was the biggest All-Star snub in either league. He slumped coming out of the break, but still finished with his best offensive season stateside, reaching 30 home runs and 100 RBI for the first time. After serving primarily as a DH last year, he will shift back to right field to replace Kyle Tucker.”

Suzuki has his critics, but it is going to be incredibly hard to replace 30+ home runs and 100+ RBI on such short notice. Matt Shaw is probably going to see plenty of time in right field if Suzuki is out, but he does not have the power bat that the slugger has.

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Chicago White Sox announce 2026 Opening Day starting rotation

Robin Adams — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 19:30:35 +0000

The Chicago White Sox are hoping the 2026 sees them take another massive step forward in their rebuild. After winning just 41 games in 2024, they won 60 in 2025. And while a 60-102 season is still dismal, the fact of the matter is that they proved they are heading in the right direction.

The 2026 White Sox are going to have growing pains. Such is the case with every team that boasts numerous young players in its lineup. That being said, they also have more talent in their organization than they did even a few months ago, and the future is looking bright in Chicago.

The Chicago White Sox have named their Opening Day starting rotation

Sep 28, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Chicago White Sox pitcher Shane Smith (64) pitches against the Washington Nationals during the third inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Not long ago, the White Sox revealed that 2025 AL All-Star Shane Smith will be their ace and Opening Day starting pitcher. On Tuesday, they announced the rest of their starting rotation:

White Sox manager Will Venable announced the team’s season-opening starting rotation: Shane Smith, Sean Burke, Anthony Kay, Davis Martin and Erick Fedde.

— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) March 17, 2026

Below are Chicago’s initial five-man starting rotation and their stats from 2025.

Shane Smith

29 starts, 7-8, 3.82 ERA, 1.20 WHIP, 145 strikeouts, 146.1 innings

Sean Burke

28 games (22 starts), 4-11, 4.22 ERA, 1.44 WHIP, 133 strikeouts, 134.1 innings

Anthony Kay

16 games (zero starts), 0-0, 6.14 ERA, 1.50 WHIP, 11 strikeouts, 14.1 innings (pitched for New York Mets and Chicago Cubs)

Davis Martin

26 games (25 starts), 7-10, 4.10 ERA, 1.29 WHIP, 104 striketouts, 142.2 innings

Erick Fedde

32 games (24 starts), 4-13, 5.49 ERA, 1.52 WHIP, 83 strikeouts, 147.0 innings (pitched for the St. Louis Cardinals, Atlanta Braves, and Milwaukee Brewers; also threw a shutout early in 2025 with the Cardinals)

On the surface, this rotation leaves much to be desired. However, it is just the beginning of what is sure to be a starting group filled with young talent as soon as it develops.

Hopefully this group can help the White Sox see another large step forward in 2026.

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Chicago White Sox: Austin Hays gets intriguing ranking among top-30 MLB right fielders

Robin Adams — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 18:30:02 +0000

The Chicago White Sox are going to be one of the youngest teams in Major League Baseball this season. Indeed, they are in the midst of a rebuild that will see them boast many young players at various positions that have yet to prove themselves consistently on the Major League level.

And while these young players represent the future of the White Sox, it is imperative that the organization surrounds them with veterans who can help them through the mental and physical marathon that is a 162-game MLB season.

This is part of the reason why Chicago signed Austin Hays in free agency this winter.

Chicago White Sox veteran Austin Hays ranks 18th among MLB right fielders

Mar 11, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Chicago White Sox left fielder Austin Hays (21) runs the bases after hitting a home run against the Los Angeles Angels during the first inning at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

Hays signed with Chicago on a one-year $6 million contract back in February. He projects to be the White Sox everyday right fielder even though he has not played the position since 2024. Last year, the Cincinnati Reds only played him in left field.

Still, Bleacher Report gave him the 18th overall ranking among the 30 projected starting right fielders in Major League Baseball:

“An All-Star in 2023 with the Orioles, Hays has four seasons with at least 15 home runs and 70 RBI over the last five years. He has crushed left-handed pitching throughout his career, but should fill an everyday role in the White Sox lineup after signing a one-year, $5 million deal that includes a 2027 mutual option.”

Last season, Hays hit .266/.315/.453 with 15 home runs and 64 RBI in 103 games for the Reds. He has appeared in 137 games in right field compared to 456 in left.

While Hays may not be a long-term part of Chicago’s future, he is here to provide some veteran leadership and stability to their lineup.

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Chicago Cubs: Moises Ballasteros “best role” on 2026 team revealed

Robin Adams — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 16:03:42 +0000

The Chicago Cubs are going to have some questions that need answering soon regarding their Opening Day roster. With Seiya Suzuki injured, and the extent of his injury unknown, they need to figure out a solution in right field. And while Matt Shaw can certainly play the position, a bigger question is how the team is going to replace the 30+ home runs that Suzuki hit a year ago.

Indeed, the Cubs offense is going to be interesting to watch as it comes into form in 2026. With Kyle Tucker now with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago signed Alex Bregman to help replace his bat. However, losing Suzuki so late in the spring does not allow the Cubs time to go and find an external solution to replace his power (if, indeed, they need to).

But the solution to that may come internally in the form of top prospect Moises Ballesteros.

The Chicago Cubs may platoon Moises Ballesteros at DH

Ballesteros is almost certainly going to make the Opening Day roster for Chicago. Last year, in his first 20-game stint in the Majors, he hit .298/.394/.474 with two home runs and 11 RBI. This spring, he has hit .333/.357/.407 with six RBI in nine games.

The problem, though, is that he plays catcher and first, and the Cubs are set at those positions. However, Jim Bowden of The Athletic believes Chicago will actually be better off platooning Ballesteros at designated hitter:

“The Cubs believe that he will be good enough defensively to be an everyday catcher in time, but for now his best role is as a platoon designated hitter against righties. He has above-average bat-to-ball skills and can hit all types of pitches, including high velocity, sharp breaking balls and off-speed offerings. He’ll use the entire field to hit line drives with elite exit velocity.”

Using Ballesteros as a DH against right-handed pitchers will get him into the lineup most days. Additionally, it will give Cubs coaches time to work with him defensively at both first base and catcher.

From what Bowden says, it looks like he is likely going to be their future at the catcher position, but for now they need him for his bat. Using him as a platoon DH will allow them to do that while also giving him time to develop defensively.

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Chicago White Sox: Sam Antonacci draws high praise from GM Christ Getz

Robin Adams — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 14:34:23 +0000

The Chicago White Sox may have won just 60 games in 2025, but that was a 20-game improvement from 2024. Additionally, the vast amount of young talent that they have throughout every level of their organization has given many hope that brighter days are ahead.

Over the course of Spring Training, multiple White Sox prospects have given fans glimpses of the good days to come. Among these is infielder Sam Antonacci, who is just returning to the team following Team Italy’s Cinderella run in the World Baseball Classic.

Antonacci has yet to play a game on the Triple-A level, but based on his performance this spring, it will not be long until he reaches the Major Leagues.

Chicago White Sox star prospect Sam Antonacci gets high praise from Chris Getz

Mar 11, 2026; Houston, TX, United States; Italy shortstop Sam Antonacci (10) hugs first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino (9) after defeating Mexico at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images

Antonacci is the ninth-rated prospect in Chicago’s farm system, but thanks to the World Baseball Classic has become one of their more recognizable players. Jim Bowden of The Athletic named him as the White Sox player that has been turning heads the most this spring:

“Antonacci was the White Sox’s 2024 fifth-round pick out of Coastal Carolina. A left-handed hitter, Antonacci slashed .291/.433/.409 at three minor-league levels and stole 48 bases last season. He can play everywhere in the dirt except first base, with second base probably his best position. He profiles as a future table setter as a hitter.”

He also included the following praise for Antonacci from Chicago general manager Chris Getz:

“Sam continues to impress in March albeit most of his production has come on the WBC national stage with Team Italy. He’s been an organizational favorite since being drafted in 2024. His offensive process is advanced with plus swing decisions, high contact and increasing power. He runs the bases with his hair on fire and an overall baseball IQ that’s as high as anyone’s in the organization. He’s a fun player to watch.”

The comment about Antonacci’s WBC production is an interesting one, as the White Sox infielder hit .143/.333/.500 in five games. That being said, he also had a home run and drove in three runs.

In six games this spring, though, Antonacci hit .308/.500/.846 with two home runs, four RBI, and three stolen bases.

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Chicago Cubs: Seiya Suzuki gets MRI after 2026 WBC injury

Robin Adams — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 01:12:15 +0000

The Chicago Cubs were hoping that right fielder Seiya Suzuki would be able to build off his best slugging MLB season from a year ago. In 2025, he hit .245/.326/.478 with 32 home runs and 103 RBI. It was the first time in his Major League career that he hit over 30 home runs and drove in over 100 runs.

Indeed, the first three seasons of his career after coming over from Japan had been less successful than the Cubs had hoped. And even last year, when he had career highs in home runs and RBI, he still had the worst batting average and on base percentage of his time in Big Leagues.

But any hopes that Suzuki and the Cubs had of him having a better year in 2026 have been put on hold.

Chicago Cubs right fielder Seiya Suzuki has gotten an MRI on his knee

During Team Japan’s loss to Team Venezuela in the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC), Suzuki hurt his knee while sliding into second base. He was removed from the game and, after the loss, returned to Cubs’ training camp.

But he has not returned to baseball activities. Instead, he has undergone an MRI on his knee after team physicians examined it:

After being examined by a doctor, Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki is undergoing an MRI on his right knee to determine the extent of the injury he experienced while playing in the World Baseball Classic.

— Patrick Mooney (@PJ_Mooney) March 16, 2026

“Let’s get the information, and then we should be able to tell you that,” manager Craig Counsell said when asked about the nature of the injury. Still, the fact that the team needed to get an MRI ordered for their right fielder is not exactly a positive sign.

Should Suzuki miss any time, and it sure sounds like he will, Matt Shaw will see plenty of playing time in right field.

Last season, Shaw emerged as the Cubs’ everyday third baseman. However, he lost that job this spring following the free agent addition of Alex Bregman.

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Chicago Bears lose 39-game defensive starter in NFL free agency

Robin Adams — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 00:03:19 +0000

The Chicago Bears defense may have led the NFL in turnovers forced in 2025, but they were by no means a dominating unit. They still ranked near the bottom of the league in yards and points allowed per game. As such, general manager Ryan Poles said that many changes would be happening on that side of the ball.

With those changes, though, comes the departure of multiple defensive starters. Already, the Bears have seen the entire starting safety room and Pro Bowl cornerback sign elsewhere.

Now, they also are bidding adieu to one of their starting defensive linemen.

Chicago Bears defensive lineman Andrew Billings signed with the Arizona Cardinals

Oct 13, 2025; Landover, Maryland, USA; Chicago Bears defensive tackle Andrew Billings (97) reacts after a play against the Washington Commanders during the first quarter at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-Imagn Images

Earlier today, it was reported that Andrew Billings, who started 39 games for the Bears over the last three seasons, has signed with the Arizona Cardinals in NFL free agency:

The #Cardinals have signed former #Bears DT Andrew Billings

Billings has started 39 games over the last three years for Chicago. pic.twitter.com/ULki9KyVHA

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) March 16, 2026

Billings was originally drafted in the fourth round of the 2016 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. He did not make his NFL debut, though, until 2017. After four seasons there (he sat out in 2020 due to COVID-19), he spent one year apiece with the Cleveland Browns and Las Vegas Raiders.

In three seasons with Chicago, Billings amassed 71 total tackles and 2.0 sacks.

While Billings may not have been expected back per say, his departure highlights the fact that the Bears need to address their defensive line this off-season.

Not only did they give up a great deal of passing yards and points, but they also ranked near the bottom of the league in quarterback pressures and sacks.

It will be interesting to see what moves Poles has up his sleeves to address this.

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Chicago Bears roster given top-10 ranking amid NFL free agency

Robin Adams — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 21:44:26 +0000

The Chicago Bears have been one of the most active teams in NFL free agency. With the sudden retirement of their Pro Bowl center, Drew Dalman, Chicago traded DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills for Garrett Bradbury to replace him. Additionally, they have made several additions on defense while bidding adieu to most of their secondary.

Last year, Chicago’s secondary played a large role in helping the defense lead the NFL in turnovers. However, the two players that accounted for more than half of their interceptions total, Kevin Byard and Nahshon Wright, were both allowed to walk in free agency.

Despite this, the Bears roster has been given a top-10 ranking following the first week of NFL free agency.

Chicago Bears roster ranked seventh best amid NFL free agency

May 9, 2025; Lake Forest, IL, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson (R) looks on during the Rookie Minicamp at Halas Hall. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

In a recent article posted by Bleacher Report, the top-10 NFL teams after the first week of free agency were revealed. Chicago came in seventh with the following explanation:

“The Bears are one spot above the Houston Texans because of their offense. Caleb Williams made a significant second-year leap and became a must-watch player last season. He has a budding pass-catching group that includes Rome Odunze, Luther Burden III, Colston Loveland and running back Kyle Monangai, all of whom are 23 years old or younger. Running back D’Andre Swift leads the Bears’ backfield.

“Behind a solid pass-protecting offensive line that includes three-time All-Pro Joe Thuney, Williams should continue to develop into a top signal-caller with the playmakers around him.

“The Bears lost key defensive starters in free agency: safeties Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker, linebacker Tremaine Edmunds and cornerback Nahshon Wright.”

As noted above, the Bears have a plethora of young and exciting pass catchers that allowed them to move on from Moore. Additionally, their offensive line is anchored by Joe Thuney, who was an All-Pro last year.

Defensively, Chicago may have lost a great deal of talent, but that secondary also ranked among the worst teams in the NFL in terms of passing yards given up per game. While they generated the most turnovers in the NFL last year, the Minnesota Vikings’ decline from 2024-2025 is evidence that the model of relying solely on turnovers is not a sustainable way to operate the defense.

There is still a great deal of work to do, of course, but the Bears are better off now than they were a week ago.

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Chicago Cubs fans questioning Seiya Suzuki social media post amid injury concerns

Robin Adams — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 20:05:03 +0000

Chicago Cubs right fielder Seiya Suzuki is entering the final year of his five-year contract with the team. This year, in particular, was going to determine whether or not the Cubs would bring him back in 2027 (or whenever baseball resumes following a likely lockout next season).

After four disappointing seasons, Suzuki finally hit over 30 home runs and drove in more than 100 runs for Chicago last season. The hope, of course, was that he would build off of that success and have another solid season in 2026.

However, Suzuki was recently injured while playing for Team Japan in the World Baseball Classic. What is more, the severity of the injury is either not known or has not been revealed to the public.

Chicago Cubs fans question Instagram post of Seiya Suzuki following injury

While Suzuki has arrived back in Cubs camp, it has still not been announced whether or not he will be healthy for Opening Day. And his post on Instagram after Japan was eliminated from the WBC provided not hints:

Seiya Suzuki on Instagram:

“Good day everyone. Thank you to all the fans for your support and warm cheers. I’m just really happy that I was able to play in front of all the Japanese fans, and that I was able to play with your loud cheers. So happy I got to play baseball this… pic.twitter.com/pXrwciMTWX

— Cubs Zone (@CubsZone) March 16, 2026

As one can imagine, fans were rather confused about the post:

Sounds like he is out for an extended period of time.

— MountainIllini# (@IlliniMountain) March 16, 2026

That’s a whole lot of nothing. Is he out for the season or not?

— Massivelayoffs (@MassiveLayoffs) March 16, 2026

WHTAT DOES THIS MEAN SEIYA

— chicago fanatic (@cubbies914) March 16, 2026

That doesn’t sound good .. https://t.co/lAVwtxh8Tn

— Jacob Beaulieu (@JacobBeaulieu) March 16, 2026

The concern, of course, is that Suzuki could be out for an extended period of time, or even for the entire year. If he is, Matt Shaw will see plenty of time in right field.

But Suzuki’s time in Chicago would most likely be at an end.

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Chicago Bears: former CB Nashon Wright awarded over $1 million from NFL

Robin Adams — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:32:34 +0000

The Chicago Bears defense was one of the best in the NFL when generating turnovers in 2025. Indeed, they led the league in interceptions, but also were among the league’s worst teams in terms of passing yards given up.

As a result, the Bears decided to overhaul both their safety and cornerback positions. While they signed safety Coby Bryant in free agency, they are still working on replacing most of their secondary.

Indeed, of the team’s 23 interceptions in 2025, over half of them came from Kevin Byard and Nahshon Wright. Both of these players have since signed with other teams in NFL free agency.

Former Chicago Bears CB Nahshon Wright gets the most performance-based distribution in the NFL

Jan 10, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears cornerback Nahshon Wright (26) breaks up the pass to Green Bay Packers wide receiver Jayden Reed (11) during the second half of an NFC Wild Card Round game at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

Wright signed a one-year $3.5 million contract with the New York Jets in free agency, a deal that can be worth up to $5.5 million if he hits all of the incentives.

And while that deal may seem small for a player who made the Pro Bowl in 2025, he did just get an extra $1.4 million from the NFL:

The NFL has announced performance-based pay distributions for 2025. Former #Bears DB Nahshon Wright earned the highest amount among all NFL players for the 2025 League Year Performance-Based Pay program. His $1,441,397 distribution will more than double his 2025 salary.

— Zack Pearson (@Zack_Pearson) March 16, 2026

Last season, Wright had five interceptions and two forced fumbles to go with 11 passes defended and 80 tackles. Prior to 2025, he had career totals of one interceptions, five passes defended, and 37 tackles.

A big question, of course, is whether or not Wright’s 2025 season was a one-hit wonder. Based on the short and affordable contract he signed with New York, the rest of the NFL is wondering the same thing.

That being said, he is getting a nice reward from the NFL for his breakout 2025 season.

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Chicago Cubs: Shohei Ohtani addresses the Seiya Suzuki injury suffered in Japan’s WBC loss

Robin Adams — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 19:30:48 +0000

Chicago Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki is entering what very well may be the most important season of his MLB career. Coming off of a season in which he hit .245/.326/.478 with 32 home runs and 103 RBI, Suzuki goes into 2026 as a player scheduled to hit free agency in 2027. In other words, his performance this season will determine his future in Chicago and/or what kind of contract he gets on the open market.

For now, though, everyone surrounding the Cubs is holding their collective breath in regard to his health. Last night, Suzuki suffered a knee injury of unknown severity while playing for Team Japan in the World Baseball Classic.

Shohei Ohtani addresses the injury to Chicago Cubs star Seiya Suzuki

Suzuki was injured early in Japan’s loss to Venezuela when he hurt his knee sliding into second base. He was removed from the game and, of course, did not return.

No imaging has been done yet, so the extent of the injury is not known.

After the game, Suzuki’s Japanese teammate, superstar Shohei Ohtani, addressed the concerning injury:

Shohei Ohtani talked to Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki during the game after he limped off the field with right knee pain.
“He hasn’t had any imaging done yet so right now it’s just based on how he feels,” Ohtani said. “I’m just hoping it turns out to be something positive and…

— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) March 15, 2026

“He hasn’t had any imaging done yet so right now it’s just based on how he feels. I’m just hoping it turns out to be something positive and that it won’t affect his season.”

The Cubs, of course, were hoping to have Suzuki as their starting right fielder this season. At best, it looks like he will be out for a couple of weeks. At worst, he will be out much longer.

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Chicago Bears: Ryan Poles explains why team chose Coby Bryant over Kevin Byard in 2026 NFL free agency

Robin Adams — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 19:00:07 +0000

The Chicago Bears led the NFL in turnovers forced in 2025. One of their starting safeties, Kevin Byard, led the league with seven interceptions. He was also named to the Pro Bowl and First Team All-Pro. However, with his contract up after the season, the Bears decided to let him walk in free agency.

Byard ended up signing with the New England Patriots, reuniting with head coach Mike Vrable. He had previously played for Vrable while the two were with the Tennessee Titans.

To replace Byard, Chicago landed on Coby Bryant, who previously played for and won the Super Bowl with the Seattle Seahawks.

Chicago Bears GM Ryan Poles explains why team chose Coby Bryant over Kevin Byard

Sep 25, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of the jersey of Seattle Seahawks safety Coby Bryant (8) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Bears general manager Ryan Poles recently spoke to the Chicago media. During his interview, he was asked about the decision to sign Byrant instead of Byard.

He responded:

“That’s what makes this part of this difficult. You have certain plans; there’s guys that you would like to have back and kind of seeing how the landscape set up and you do your research. When we watched Coby’s tape he was a guy that got us excited.

“Because again, he played our style of ball, he played fast, he played physically. Those are the things that (Dennis Allen) is looking for, that we’re looking for. We thought there was leadership there. He’s young and we had to adapt to that and we had the opportunity to bring a really good player in and that’s the decision that we made.”

Byard signed a one-year $9 million contract in New England. Meanwhile, Bryant signed a three-year $40 million deal with Chicago.

Clearly, not only did the Bears like Bryant’s tape, but they also view him as a longer-term solution at safety than Byard.

Last season, Bryant had four interceptions, seven passes defended, a forced fumble, and 66 tackles while playing with Seattle.

Most importantly, he allowed just a 59.0% completion percentage and 54.0 passer rating when targeted. For a Bears team that ranked near the bottom of the league in passing yards allowed, the addition of Bryant was a no-brainer.

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Chicago Bears: Jerdrick Wills Jr. reveals injury that cost him 2025 was worse than people thought

Robin Adams — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 16:05:20 +0000

The Chicago Bears entered the 2026 NFL off-season knowing that they would need to find a stop-gap left tackle. Ozzy Trapilo is their future at the position, but he will miss most, if not all, of the 2026 season with a knee injury. Braxton Jones was retained on a one-year $10 million contract, and he can fill in there if needed.

However, if Chicago viewed Jones as a viable left tackle, they would not have needed to draft Trapilo. In order to ensure they have the best player possible protecting Caleb Williams’ blindside, the Bears signed Jedrick Wills Jr.

Chicago Bears offensive lineman Jedrick Wills Jr. reveals injury last year was worse than first believed

Cleveland Browns running back DÕErnest Johnson gets a hug from left tackle Jedrick Wills Jr. after gaining a game clinching first down in the fourth quarter against the Denver Broncos on Thursday, Oct. 21, 2021 in Cleveland, at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Browns won the game 17-14. [Phil Masturzo/ Beacon Journal]
Browns13

The Bears signed Willis to a one-year $1.2 million contract. He missed all of 2025 and most of 2023 and 2024 with a knee injury that turned out to be more complex than anyone initially thought.

According to Courtney Cronin of ESPN, Wills said of his injury:

“I had minimal damage to my ligaments. It was more of an alignment issue from where I got fell on.

“It wasn’t my knee; they had to go into my femur and do what was called an osteotomy to kind of correct my alignment. So my knee is healthy. It took a little bit longer than just the regular injury, but it’s doing better now.

Willis’ injury was at first diagnosed as an MCL ailment, but as stated above, he also needed to get his knee and femur realigned.

Prior 2023, Wills was Cleveland’s starting left tackle, so he has the pedigree to fill in at the position for Chicago. However, he has not played an NFL game in well over a year.

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Chicago Bears: former wide receiver signs with New York Giants in 2026 NFL free agency

Robin Adams — Sat, 14 Mar 2026 22:32:23 +0000

The Chicago Bears have been slowly but surely revamping their wide receiver room. Over the past few seasons, they have allowed veteran pass catchers to leave while drafting younger wide receivers to replace them. Just recently, they traded DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills for center Garrett Bradbury.

With Moore gone, the Bears’ top wide receiver duo from 2023, the year they acquired him in a trade, are both playing elsewhere. The other member of that duo, Darnell Mooney, has spent the last two seasons with the Atlanta Falcons.

And now he will be joining the New York Giants.

Former Chicago Bears wide receiver Darnell Mooney signs with the New York Giants

Sep 17, 2023; Tampa, Florida, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Darnell Mooney (11) looks on prior to the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports

According to NFL insider Jeremy Fowler, Mooney has signed with the Giants in free agency:

Free agent wide receiver Darnell Mooney plans to sign with the Giants, per source.

More speed on the way for Jaxson Dart.

New York and agents @aj__stevens and David Mulugheta of @AthletesFirst reached deal today. pic.twitter.com/TySIQ99pMZ

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) March 14, 2026

By signing with the Giants, Mooney reunites with former Bears head coach Matt Nagy, who was hired as New York’s offensive coordinator.

In four seasons with the Bears, Mooney had 213 receptions for 2,593 yards and 11 touchdowns. His best season came in 2021 when he had 81 receptions for 1,055 yards and four touchdowns.

After his rookie contract with Chicago was up, Mooney signed as a free agent with the Atlanta Falcons. His best season with them came in 2024, his first year with the team. That season, he had 64 receptions for 992 yards and a career-high five touchdowns.

The Bears originally selected Mooney in the fifth round of the 2020 NFL Draft with the 174th overall pick. Considering where he was drafted, he has put together a very nice NFL career.

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Chicago Bears see Maxx Crosby kill trade hopes with 1st social media post since Ravens saga

Robin Adams — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:14:17 +0000

For weeks, it was believed that the Chicago Bears were the favorites to land five-time Pro Bowl pass rusher Maxx Crosby via trade. After a long and volatile season with the Las Vegas Raiders, the two sides agreed that it was in their best interest to part ways.

The asking price from Las Vegas was high: two first round picks. Chicago, of course, was reluctant to offer that much. Still, the prevailing belief was that the Bears would get something done.

However, the Baltimore Ravens swooped in at the last minute and agreed to send the Raiders what they wanted. Just a couple days later, though, the pulled out of the trade.

The Chicago Bears are not going to get Maxx Crosby

Dec 31, 2023; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) in the first half against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

Baltimore allegedly pulled out of the trade due to concerns over Crosby’s recovery from a knee injury suffered in 2025. This, though, did not make much sense as they had access to all his medical records during trade negotiations.

Whatever the case, the Ravens pulled out of the deal and signed Trey Hendrickson instead.

With Crosby returned to the Raiders, many wondered if the Bears might try to acquire the five-time Pro Bowler. However, based on Crosby’s own social media post, it does not sound like he is going anywhere anymore:

Everything Happens For A Reason. Believe Nothing You Hear & Half Of What You See. Im A Raider. I’m Back. Run That Sh*t. pic.twitter.com/8IZXiDYMio

— Maxx Crosby (@CrosbyMaxx) March 12, 2026

As one can see from his social media post on X (formerly Twitter), Crosby has committed to the Raiders organization for the 2026 NFL season.

It is just as well for Chicago, who have been busy addressing their roster in other ways in the days since the original trade was announced. That being said, they do need to add a pass rusher or two. It will be interesting to see who they are able to pick up in free agency and/or the NFL Draft.

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Chicago Bears: Jaquan Brisker named top-10 NFL free agent still available

Robin Adams — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 03:30:45 +0000

The Chicago Bears entered 2026 NFL free agency needing to shore up the safety position. Their duo of starters of 2025, Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker, both hit the open market. And while Byard signed with the New England Patriots, Brisker is still available.

Indeed, Byard chose to sign with New England over Chicago due to his relationship with Patriots head coach Mike Vrable, whom he played for during his days with the Tennessee Titans.

Now that the first three days of NFL free agency are over (Wednesday was the first “official” day), many of the most high-profile players are off the market. Now, Brisker is considered one of the best players available.

Chicago Bears safety Jaquan Brisker named the 10th-best NFL free agent available

Chicago Bears Jaquan Brisker celebrates a sack – Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images

Brisker, who was selected by Chicago in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, is a free agent for the first time in his career. He is also coming off a 2025 season in which he played all 17 games for the first time in his career.

Last year, he had an interception, eight passes defended, and 93 tackles.

CBS Sports analysts recently named him the tenth-best NFL free agent still available, writing:

“After an injury sidelined him for all but five games in 2024, Brisker played in each of Chicago’s 19 games (including the postseason) in 2025. In 17 regular-season games, Brisker made 92 tackles, had one interception and broke up eight passes for the NFC North champions.

“A solid tackler, it’s safe to say that Brisker’s best football is still ahead of him as he is still just 26 years old.”

Undoubtedly, Brisker will eventually sign somewhere and get a pay raise in comparison to what he made on his rookie contract with the Bears.

Still, he allowed a 75.0% completion percentage and 127.6 passer rating when targeted last season, which may explain why he remains unsigned right now.

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Chicago Bears named as potential suitor for #1 NFL free agent still available

Robin Adams — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 01:36:27 +0000

Of all the needs that the Chicago Bears have this off-season, adding offensive linemen to protect Caleb Williams must remain a top priority. For all the talk about adding on defense, the fact remains that the Bears will not go anywhere if Williams is constantly under duress in 2026.

Already, Chicago has traded DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills for center Garrett Bradbury, who will replace the recently retired Drew Dalman. They also have brought back backup swing tackle Braxton Jones.

This all being said, Chicago would do well to address the offensive line even more in free agency, and they could nab on of the Green Bay Packers‘ remaining free agents.

The Chicago Bears named as potential suitor for Green Bay Packers LT Rasheed Walker

Oct 19, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Green Bay Packers tackle Rasheed Walker (63) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Bleacher Report recently released a list of the top 50 free agents still remaining in the NFL. They also named potential landing spots for the top ten players on their list.

Their number one overall free agent remaining is former Packers left tackle Rasheed Walker, and they named the Bears as a suitor:

“Starting-caliber left tackles are always at a premium, and while Rasheed Walker isn’t elite, he is starting-caliber. Pro Football Focus ranked him 41st among 89 qualifying offensive tackles in pass protection this past season, and Walker has appeared in all 17 games in each of the past three seasons.

“Having turned 26 in February, Walker has long-term value and room to improve.

“While Walker’s technique and play strength could both be improved, his 6’6”, 324-pound frame and strong movement skills are desirable. He has the baseline traits needed to grow in a variety of blocking schemes.

“Walker should be the top free-agent target of every team with a need at left tackle and money to spend. Dan Moore Jr., who is probably a tier below Walker, commanded a four-year, $84 million contract a year ago.”

Potential Suitors: Chicago Bears, Cleveland Browns

Walker would be an intriguing signing for the Bears. He has three seasons of experience starting at left tackle. Most importantly, he has remained healthy.

That being said, he is poor run blocker and took a step back in pass protection last year. Additionally, he may cost more, in both years and dollars, than Chicago wants to pay.

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Chicago Cubs worst contract for the 2026 MLB season revealed

Robin Adams — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 21:13:22 +0000

The Chicago Cubs, over the last few years, have not been big spenders in free agency. Instead, they have relied on developing their own talent in hopes that they take them to the levels of competition at which they want to be. For the most part, they have been successful.

However, they have also made some splashes in free agency here and there, supplementing their homegrown talent with proven veterans. This past winter, for example, the Cubs signed third baseman Alex Bregman to a five-year $175 million contract.

A few years ago, they inked shortstop Dansby Swanson to a seven-year $177 million contract, which ties him to Chicago through the the 2029 season.

Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson said to have the worst contract on the team

May 17, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson (7) round the bases after hitting a solo home run against the Chicago White Sox during the fifth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

In three seasons with the Cubs, Swanson has hit .243/.313/.408 and has averaged about 21 home runs and 74 RBI per year. He also won a Gold Glove and made the NL All-Star team in his first season with the club.

Despite the overall success, though, Bleacher Report believes he has the worst contract on the team:

“Considering Dansby Swanson always posts and has 31 defensive runs saved in three seasons with the Cubs, this contract is far from a disaster.

“Still, Swanson hit .265 with a .775 OPS over his final three seasons with the Braves, which, when coupled with his tremendous defense, earned him a seven-year deal with the Cubs in free agency. But since joining the Cubs, Swanson’s offensive production has declined, as he’s hit .243 with a .721 OPS.

“It could be worse, the Cubs could have signed Xander Bogaerts during the much ballyhooed free-agent shortstop class of 2022-23, which also included Trea Turner and Carlos Correa. But when Chicago inked Swanson to this contract, they definitely expected he would perform more offensively.””

As BR notes, it is hard to knock Swanson’s contract too much because of how good he is defensively. That being said, he has not hit as consistently as he did with Atlanta. In those first seven years of his career, he hit .255/.312/.417 and averaged 20 home runs and 80 RBI per year.

That being said, the home runs and RBI totals are not all that far off from what he has accomplished thus far in Chicago. What is more, he accumulated a WAR of 14.9 in seven years in Atlanta. Through three seasons with the Cubs, he already has a 13.6 WAR, which indicates he has been a far more valuable player for them than he ever was for the Braves.

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Chicago Cubs fans not thrilled with choice of 2026 Opening Day starting pitcher

Robin Adams — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 19:08:47 +0000

Ever since before Spring Training began, many wondered who the Chicago Cubs would name as their 2026 Opening Day starter. For a while, many thought it would be Cade Horton, who dazzled as a rookie in 2025. After being called up, he went 11-4 with a 2.67 ERA in 23 games (22 starts).

Of course, the preferred choice would have been Justin Steele, but he will not be ready for the start of the regular season as he recovers from injury.

Indeed, there is a future where Horton will probably start multiple Opening Days for Chicago. But that future is not here yet, much to the dismay of fans.

Chicago Cubs fans disappointed Matthew Boyd will pitch on Opening Day

Mar 9, 2026; Houston, TX, United States; United States pitcher Matthew Boyd (31) reacts in the sixth inning against Mexico at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

Today, it was reported that Matthew Boyd, who was an All-Star for the first time in his long career last season, is going to be the Opening Day starter.

Matthew Boyd opening day starter for Cubs

— Jesse Rogers (@JesseRogersESPN) March 12, 2026

Last year, Boyd was 14-8 with a 3.21 ERA in 31 starts for Chicago.

Despite his success last year, though, many Cubs fans are not happy:

Yeah, because he looked so good at the WBC

— Ken Barton (@kenthro3000) March 12, 2026

You’re joking

— Justin (@ChiFanJustin) March 12, 2026

Yikes

— Hmmm (Brad) (@CubsEnjoyerBANG) March 12, 2026

Why?

— (@bears_pain) March 12, 2026

Boyd had a good season for the Cubs last year, but struggled in his last outing for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic. He pitched 2.1 innings while giving up five hits and three runs.

This is likely why many fans are dismayed by his selection to start on Opening Day. It should be noted, though, that in two Spring Training appearances, Boyd has pitched 4.2 innings with a 1.93 ERA.

While he struggled in the WBC, he has performed well so far when with the Cubs in Arizona. With Horton still gaining experience, Boyd is a much safer option to be the Cubs starter for the first game of the season.

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Chicago Bears may not be able to do a Maxx Crosby trade after latest report

Robin Adams — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 13:08:36 +0000

The Chicago Bears were one of the teams often and heavily linked to Maxx Crosby when the Las Vegas Raiders first made him available on the NFL trade market. However, the Raiders agreed to trade the five-time Pro Bowl pass rusher to the Baltimore Ravens for two first round picks.

Last night, though, it was reported that Baltimore backed out of the trade after failing Crosby on his physical. This news sent shockwaves through the NFL and reignited speculation that Chicago could look into trading for him again.

However, it does not sound like that will be the case. In fact, it now appears that Crosby will not be going anywhere.

The Chicago Bears likely not going to be able to trade for Maxx Crosby

Oct 15, 2023; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) celebrates after the Raiders defeated the New England Patriots 21-17 at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

While other NFL teams got back on the phone to inquire about the possibility of trading for Crosby, it does not sound like it will be possible now.

Despite the Ravens’ assessment of his knee rehab, the Raiders are not coming down off of their asking price of two first round picks. What is more, after talking with their star pass rusher, it appears that the two sides are ready to move forward together:

Maxx Crosby was in the @Raiders building at 6 am this morning to resume rehab, and the team brass reached out to him immediately after the trade died yesterday. General feeling—Crosby’s a Raider, let’s move forward.

Trade calls came. More will come. But that’s where things are.

— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) March 11, 2026

Undoubtedly, the Bears are going to be one of the teams that already have and will continue to call the Raiders. However, if Las Vegas will not lower their asking price, Chicago is undoubtedly out on Crosby.

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Chicago Cubs: Ian Happ named best dual threat LF in Major League Baseball

Robin Adams — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 23:00:39 +0000

The Chicago Cubs are preparing for a 2026 season that, they hope, will see them compete for a World Series title. While their young talent is widely expected to form the basis for their success, as it did last year, they are also going to rely on the continued contributions of left fielder Ian Happ.

Indeed, Happ has been a fixture in the Cubs lineup for years. However, 2026 is the final year of his contract with Chicago. There is a distinct possibility that this could be his final year in the Windy City.

And if it is, the Cubs will lose a player that has been declared the best dual threat left fielder in baseball.

Chicago Cubs star Ian Happ named the best dual threat left fielder in Major League Baseball

MLB: Spring Training Atlanta Braves at Chicago Cubs
Mar 24, 2025; Mesa, Arizona, USA; Chicago Cubs outfielder Ian Happ (8) hits against the Atlanta Braves in the first inning at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

Bleacher Report recently released an article in which they named the best dual threat player at each position. Happ was the only Cubs player to make the list, with the explanation:

The Book on His Batting

“Contrary to Cal Raleigh and Ketel Marte, Ian Happ is not a particularly balanced switch-hitter. There was a 104-point gap between his OPS as a lefty and his OPS as a righty last year.

“Yet after three straight years of 20-odd homers and an OPS+ in the 120 range, there is nonetheless something to be said for Happ’s level. It’s a high floor that is preferable to some of the higher ceilings at the position, such as Jarren Duran’s.”

The Book on His Fielding

“Happ and Steven Kwan are both four-time defending Gold Glove winners in left field. And if anyone’s being honest, Kwan is the better defender of the two.

“Yet beyond being the significantly more productive hitter, Happ gets points for having a more reliable arm than Kwan. He only has three fewer outfield assists since 2022, but also 11 fewer throwing errors.”

Happ is a one-time All-Star and four-time Gold Glove award winner in left field. Additionally, he has hit 20 or more home runs in four of the past five years.

This season could prove to be an extra productive one for Happ, as he is in a contract year. It would not be surprising to see him put up the best offensive year of his career as he is scheduled to hit free agency in 2027.

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Chicago White Sox: Luisangel Acuna named one of the worst starting MLB centerfielders

Robin Adams — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 18:16:33 +0000

The Chicago White Sox have a very young roster full of players that have a great deal to prove in 2026. On the bright side, the team saw a 20-game win improvement from 2024 to 2025, and things really cannot get worse on the South Side than they have been.

Indeed, there are many young players that have the potential to make the White Sox somewhat relevant for the first time in years. Among these is centerfielder Luisangel Acuna, who was acquired by Chicago in the Luis Roberts Jr. trade with the New York Mets.

And while Acuna is having a good Spring Training, he still has been ranked near the bottom of Major League Baseball’s projected starting centerfielders.

Chicago White Sox young star Luisangel Acuna ranked near bottom of MLB’s starting centerfielders

Mar 2, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Chicago White Sox outfielder Luisangel Acuna against the San Francisco Giants during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

In a recent article in which they rank the projected starting centerfielders in Major League Baseball, Bleacher Report listed Acuna as the 28th-best out of 30:

“Acuña has a top prospect pedigree and is coming off a terrific performance in the Venezuelan Winter League where he posted a .939 OPS with 18 extra-base hits and 12 steals in 39 games. The White Sox acquired him in the deal that sent Luis Robert Jr. to the Mets, and he is competing with Brooks Baldwin for the starting center field job this spring. The 23-year-old is out of minor league options, so he is a safe bet to be on the roster in some capacity.”

As noted above, since Acuna is out of minor league options, he is likely going to be on the Major League roster coming out of Spring Training. That being said, his performance this spring warrants his inclusion on the roster anyway. So far, he is hitting .429/.478/.619 with a home run, three RBI, and two stolen bases in eight games played.

Acuna exceeded his rookie status last year in 95 games played with the Mets. In parts of two Major League seasons, he has hit .248/.299/.341 with three home runs and 14 RBI.

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Chicago Cubs: Pete Crow-Armstrong declared the 2nd-best centerfielder in Major League Baseball

Robin Adams — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 18:16:07 +0000

The Chicago Cubs have put together a roster of players that are widely considered to be among the best at their respective positions. Pete Crow-Armstrong, their centerfielder, is certainly one of them. Last night, he almost brought Team USA back by himself in their 8-6 loss to Team Italy in the World Baseball Classic.

Chicago’s star outfielder hit two home runs in the losing effort.

Indeed, Crow-Armstrong has made quite the name for himself over the last couple of seasons, and now is considered among the absolute best centerfielders in Major League Baseball.

Chicago Cubs star Pete Crow-Armstrong named the second-best centerfielder in MLB

In their latest position ranking, Bleacher Report took a look at the best centerfielders in Major League Baseball. On their list, they declared that Crow-Armstrong is the second-best player at this position, trailing only Julio Rodriguez of the Seattle Mariners:

“PCA was a legitimate MVP candidate during the first half last season, posting an .847 OPS with 25 home runs and 27 steals. That dipped to a .634 OPS and six long balls after the break, but he still became the first Cubs player since Sammy Sosa in 1995 with a 30/30 season. If his offensive game ends up landing somewhere in the middle of those two extremes, his elite defense will make him a perennial 5-WAR player.”

On 2025, PCA hit .247/.287/.481 with 31 home runs, 95 RBI, and 35 stolen bases. As mentioned above, he became the first Cubs player since Sammy Sosa to have a 30-30 season.

His struggles in the second half of the season, though, were duly noted. If he is to truly become a MLB superstar, he will need to put together a solid season for an entire year.

Still, he did make his first National League All-Star team and was the NL Gold Glove recipient in centerfield last year.

Indeed, the sky is the limit for him.

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Chicago Cubs: Mark DeRosa reveals major mistake he made managing Team USA vs Italy

Robin Adams — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 13:03:11 +0000

The Chicago Cubs are well-represented in the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC). Pete Crow-Armstrong, Alex Bregman, and Matthew Boyd all are on Team USA, and many other players are representing their own home countries. Furthermore, Team USA is managed by former Cubs infielder Mark DeRosa.

After winning their first three games in pool play, though, Team USA was upset by Team Italy on Tuesday night, dropping their record to 3-1. Before and during the game, there were many who wondered why some of Team USA’s best players were not in the starting lineup.

Afterwards, DeRosa revealed the reason while admitting to a big mistake.

Former Chicago Cubs infielder Mark DeRosa did not know Team USA could still be eliminated

Mar 3, 2026; Scottsdale, AZ, USA; Team USA manager Mark DeRosa against the San Francisco Giants during a spring training game at Scottsdale Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Team USA fell behind early and at one time trailed 8-0. A late-inning rally by Team USA that saw PCA hit two home runs fell short, and Team Italy pulled off the 8-6 upset.

Before the game, DeRosa had said in an interview, “It’s weird. We want to win this game even though our ticket’s punched to the quarterfinals.”

The problem, though, is that Team USA did not already have their ticket punched to the quarter finals. In order for them to advance now, they need Team Mexico to defeat Team Italy tonight.

After the game, when presented with this reality, DeRosa said:

“I misspoke… Completely misread the calculations.”

Manager Mark DeRosa confirms he did not know Team USA could still be eliminated during pool play pic.twitter.com/n5Gbo3SxcB

— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) March 11, 2026

“Completely misread the calculations,” DeRosa explained.

Had he known that Team USA could be eliminated, he probably would have started Alex Bregman at third base, or not have left American pitchers in who were struggling to get outs.

Now, Team USA must cheer on Mexico and hope they beat the Italians so that the quarterfinals are actually a reality.

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Chicago Cubs: Ian Happ reveals sole focus as he heads into final contract year

Robin Adams — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 21:14:33 +0000

The Chicago Cubs have a very young and talented roster. This is, of course, a great thing for fans as it ensures that the team will remain competitive for years to come. However, the presence of veterans on the team is very important, and one of their more-respected leaders is outfielder Ian Happ.

The winner of the NL Gold Glove in left field for four consecutive seasons, Happ is considered one of the best defensive outfielders in the game. Additionally, he has hit 20+ home runs in four of the last five seasons, including each of the last three.

2026 is the final year of his contract with Chicago, and given how highly regarded he is around the league, Happ is sure to generate a lot of interest on the free agent market. But he is not thinking about that.

Ian Happ is focused on winning with the Chicago Cubs

May 5, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs outfielder Ian Happ (8) is greeted by manager Craig Counsell (11) after hitting a two-run home run against the San Francisco Giants during the third inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

When MLB players enter their final contract year, they sometimes focus on their individual performance. They hope, of course, that they will have their best season so that they can cash in once they hit free agency.

But Happ is not thinking about himself. As he told The Athletic, all he is thinking about is this team in this moment:

“The focus is just so much on this group. Both enjoying it and playing really good baseball together. It makes it a lot easier when you’re on a good team that’s going to compete that that can be the main focus.”

When asked if he will ask the front office about a possible contract extension this year, Happ replied:

“It’s hard because they’re focused on this year and winning as well. If their mind isn’t in that place — I want their focus to be on winning this year, and my focus to be on winning this year. So let’s do that.”

That is not to say that he has not given any thought to the possibility of not coming back next year. However, he also told The Athletic that, no matter where he goes, he will always come back to Chicago.

As Cubs fans, and baseball fans are well-aware, though, there is a high possibility that there is no “next year.” With a lockout looming as the CBA expires, there may not be a season in 2027.

In that case, what happens with Happ, and all other free agents next winter, will be very interesting to watch.

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Chicago Bears: Nahshon Wright signs with AFC bottom-dweller in 2026 NFL free agency

Robin Adams — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 20:33:45 +0000

The Chicago Bears defense was the best in the NFL at generating turnovers last season. Indeed, they led the league in interceptions and had the best turnover differential in the NFL. However, many of the players in the secondary that generated those turnovers are not returning.

A great deal has been written about safeties Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker hitting free agency. However, the fact of the matter is that Nahshon Wright, who made the Pro Bowl last year, also became a free agent.

Or, at least he was a free agent. Now, he has a new home.

Chicago Bears cornerback Nahshon Wright has agreed to sign with the New York Jets

According to multiple NFL reporters and insiders, Wright has signed a one-year deal with the New York Jets:

The #Jets are signing former #Bears CB Nahshon Wright to a 1-year, $5.5M deal, per @Schultz_Report.

Wight was a Pro Bowler last season. pic.twitter.com/OOwb9LCwuM

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) March 10, 2026

Wright had five interceptions for Chicago last season, which is five more interceptions than the entire Jets team had. Indeed, it is easy to see why New York was interested in him given how bad their defense was last year.

Jets head coach Aaron Glenn said this off-season that, after not calling plays in his first year, he is going to take over play calling.

Wright’s contract is only worth $5.5 million for 2026, which makes him a steal for New York if he is able to repeat his Pro Bowl level of play from 2025. If he does, he will almost certainly be one of the most sought-after cornerbacks on next year’s free agent market.

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Chicago White Sox: Shane Smith named one of the worst aces in Major League Baseball

Robin Adams — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 20:02:35 +0000

In December of 2024, the Chicago White Sox took advantage of a massive mistake by the Milwaukee Brewers. As the Rule 5 Draft approached, Milwaukee failed to protect pitching Shane Smith. As a result, Chicago was able to select him away from the Brewers. The stipulation, of course, was that he needed to remain on their Major League roster.

As it turned out, the move could not have worked out any better for the White Sox. As a rookie in 2025, Smith was 7-8 with a 3.81 ERA in 29 starts. He was named to the American League All-Star team and finished tenth in AL Rookie of the Year voting.

Chicago White Sox pitcher Shane Smith named one of the worst aces in MLB

When the 2026 MLB season begins, Smith will be just 25 years old. Indeed, he has a very long Major League career ahead of him, and has already shown that he is among the best pitchers in the game.

However, on their recent ranking of every MLB team’s ace, Smith was found near the bottom of Bleacher Report‘s list, coming in at 27th:

“Shane Smith was an All-Star for a lowly White Sox team as a rookie, striking out 145 batters and logging 146.1 innings.

“Perhaps Smith—who wasn’t drafted out of Wake Forest in the 20-round MLB Draft in 2021—isn’t destined to be an ace moving forward. But he is a controllable starter who could realistically be part of the next White Sox team that contends.

“Smith probably isn’t going to be taking the ball in October this year, but with him, Colson Montgomery, Kyle Teel, Chase Meredith, and Munetaka Murakami, there does finally seem to be some light at the end of the tunnel on the South Side.”

On the bright side, BR is complimentary of Chicago’s young talent. However, they clearly do not think that Smith is a true ace, and seem to imply that the White Sox could do better at that spot.

Hopefully, Smith proves these doubters wrong in 2026 by leading a much improve Chicago roster closer to relevance.

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Chicago Cubs: Matthew Boyd ranked as one of the worst aces in MLB

Robin Adams — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 16:49:36 +0000

With Justin Steele out until early-to-mid season, Matthew Boyd is considered the ace of the Chicago Cubs pitching staff. There is good reason for this, too. Last year, his first season with Chicago, Boyd was 14-8 with a 3.21 ERA and 1.09 WHIP. He started 31 games and pitched 179.2 innings while striking out 154 batters.

He is entering the second year of his two-year contract with the Cubs, though there is a mutual option for 2027. However, as he is 35 years old and on the back nine of his career, there are concerns that he may not have what it takes to be the ace of a staff that is expected to compete for a World Series.

Chicago Cubs pitcher Matthew Boyd gets low ranking among MLB aces

Last year, at 34 years old, Boyd was named to the All-Star team for the first time in his long Major League career. Indeed, it was his best season ever, and Bleacher Report is not sure he will be able to repeat it, ranking him 19th among MLB aces:

“At 34 years old, Matthew Boyd put together a career year for the Cubs, logging nearly 180 innings and earning a spot in the All-Star Game, making the two-year, $29 million deal Jed Hoyer gave him prior to the 2025 campaign look like a stroke of genius.

“The concern for Boyd has always been health, as he pitched just 263 total regular-season innings between 2020 and 2024. Given the history and that he’s in his mid-30s, it’s fair to have some skepticism about Boyd’s ability to match his workload from a year ago. Still, it’s an amazing turn of events that Boyd pitched well enough last year to be picked for Team USA’s World Baseball Classic roster.

“With a rotation headlined by Boyd, Cade Horton, Shota Imanaga, and Edward Cabrera, there’s a wide variance of outcomes for the Cubs in 2026. The ceiling is high, but a big part of hitting that potential is dependent upon Boyd making 30+ starts for the second season in a row.”

Healthy, as always, will be a major concern for the Cubs in 2026, especially with a starting rotation that is going to be without Steele for at least the first two months of the year.

As for Boyd, he was 46-69 with a 4.85 ERA in his career before joining the Cubs last season. Given his age, there is every reason to wonder if he will regress in 2026.

Hopefully, Chicago has enough quality pitching depth to make up for that if it happens.

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Chicago Bears sign former Detroit Lions wide receiver, 2x All-Pro, to reunite with Ben Johnson

Robin Adams — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 16:37:42 +0000

There were very few who questioned the Chicago Bears trading wide receiver DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills last week. The move not only gave the Bears much-needed salary cap space, but also removed a veteran wide receiver in favor of the young pass catchers that emerged as legitimate threats in 2025.

That being said, it also affected Chicago’s depth at the position. At the start of NFL free agency, many wondered if the Bears might look to the open market to find some quality depth.

And, as it turns out, they have.

The Chicago Bears have signed Kalif Raymond away from the Detroit Lions

Detroit Lions punt returner Kalif Raymond (11) runs against Philadelphia Eagles during the first half at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on Sunday, November 16, 2025.

This morning, it was reported that Chicago has agreed to a one-year $5.1 million contract with Kalif Raymond, formerly of the Detroit Lions:

Former #Lions WR and return-specialist Kalif Raymond is expected to sign with the #Bears, reuniting with Ben Johnson and WRs coach Antwaan Randle El in Chicago.

Raymond was very valued in Detroit. @RapSheet on it. pic.twitter.com/1GBrJhigNw

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) March 10, 2026

This signing, obviously, reunites Raymond with Bears head coach Ben Johnson and wide receivers coach Antwaan Randal El.

Last year, Raymond had 24 receptions for 289 yards and a touchdown. However, his biggest contribution to Detroit, and probably now to Chicago, is his kick/punt returning capabilities.

Twice in his career, Raymond has been named Second Team All-Pro as a kick return specialist. The last time this happened was in 2024 when he led the NFL with 413 punt return yards and a touchdown.

Last year, he led the league with 32 punt returns, which he took for 241 yards and a touchdown. In fact, Raymond has one punt return touchdown in three of the last four years.

This is not going to be signing that jumps off the page of NFL free agent rankings, but his big play ability on special teams could make him a very important piece late in the season.

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Chicago Bears sign linebacker Devin Bush to a 3-year contract in NFL free agency

Robin Adams — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 19:17:53 +0000

The Chicago Bears have been active in the early hours of 2026 NFL free agency. Already, they have added safety Coby Bryant. This was a necessity as both of Chicago’s starting safeties from last season, Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker, are also hitting free agency.

Last week, Chicago made the decision to release linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, freeing up millions of dollars in salary cap space. And while this was an expected and necessary move, it created a need at linebacker.

On Monday afternoon, they filled that need with one of the top linebackers on the market.

The Chicago Bears have agreed to sign linebacker Devin Bush in NFL free agency

Sep 21, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns linebacker Devin Bush (30) tackles Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs (8) during the third quarter at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images

According to multiple NFL reporters and insiders, the Bears have come to an agreement on a three-year contract with free agent linebacker Devin Bush:

Former Browns LB Devin Bush reached agreement today on a 3-year, $30 million deal that includes $21 million guaranteed with the Chicago Bears, per agent Drew Rosenhaus.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 9, 2026

As can be seen above, the contract is worth $30 million with $21 million of it guaranteed.

Bush is coming off of a career-year in 2025. He played in all 17 games and recorded a career-high 125 total tackles. His previous career-high before that was 109, which he accomplished as a rookie with the Pittsburgh Steelers all the way back in 2019.

Additionally, Bush had three interceptions and led the NFL with 164 interception return yards. Two of these picks were returned to the end zone for touchdowns, which also led the league.

A former top-ten pick, Bush has played for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Seattle Seahawks, and Cleveland Browns. He finished third in NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year voting with Pittsburgh back in 2019.

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Chicago Bears unlikely to sign Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker in 2026 NFL free agency

Robin Adams — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 17:59:33 +0000

Ever since the Super Bowl, there has been buzz about the possibility of the Chicago Bears chasing Kenneth Walker in NFL free agency. The four-year NFL veteran is coming off of a season that saw him rush for 1,027 yards and five touchdowns. However, it was his performance in Super Bowl LX that has made him a hot name on the market.

Walker rushed for 135 yards and had 161 all-purpose yards in the Seattle Seahawks‘ dominating win over the New England Patriots.

But while he is expected to be among one of the most sought-after players in NFL free agency, it does not appear that the Bears will be the ones doing the chasing.

The Chicago Bears are not likely to sign Kenneth Walker in NFL free agency

Jan 25, 2026; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III (9) celebrates after running for a touchdown in the first half against the Los Angeles Rams in the 2026 NFC Championship Game at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images

According to Bryan Perez who covers the Bears for Sports Illustrated, Chicago fans should not count on the team being players for Walker for one very simple reason: they do not need him.

Perez wrote:

“The Bears simply don’t have a major need at running back.

“Chicago already features a productive backfield led by D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai, allowing the offense to smash opposing defenses with high-level production. With the offensive system under head coach Ben Johnson designed to spread touches in a running back by committee, investing the $15 million per season or more that it could take to land Walker would seem foolish.”

This is most certainly true, as Chicago must focus more on improving its defensive line and finding quality offensive line depth. Those positions are not cheap, and free agency dollars will be better spent focusing on them instead of on running back.

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Chicago Bears linked to 2x Pro Bowl Eagles’ defensive lineman after missing out on Maxx Crosby

Robin Adams — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 15:41:48 +0000

The Chicago Bears were not able to land a trade for Pro Bowl pass rusher Maxx Crosby. It was the Baltimore Ravens who ended up sending two first round picks to the Las Vegas Raiders for the star instead. Apparently, and perhaps wisely, Ryan Poles was not willing to part with that much draft capital.

The fact remains, though, that Chicago still needs to improve its defensive line. Of course, they will do some via NFL free agency and the upcoming draft.

However, there is a two-time Pro Bowler who has been made available via trade, and the Bears might just be interested.

The Chicago Bears have called the Philadelphia Eagles about Jalen Carter

Jan 11, 2026; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter (98) celebrates after a sack against the San Francisco 49ers during the second quarter in an NFC Wild Card Round game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

According to multiple sources, the Philadelphia Eagles are making defensive tackle Jalen Carter available on the trade market. And according to others, Chicago is one of the teams that have called Philadelphia about the two-time Pro Bowler:

RUMOR: The Chicago Bears are one of the 5 NFL teams have called the Eagles regarding DT Jalen Carter, per @Easton__Butler

This comes after @JFowlerESPN had said the Eagles were taking calls for him. How would we feel if the Bears traded for Jalen Carter? pic.twitter.com/y3oNJAhW1G

— Bearsszn (@bearszn) March 8, 2026

Carter played in 11 games last season and made 33 total tackles while accumulating 3.0 sacks. Despite missing time due to injury (and getting kicked out of Week One against the Dallas Cowboys for spitting on Dak Prescott), he was still named to his second consecutive Pro Bowl.

Obviously, Carter would be a welcomed addition to any NFL team. His nastiness makes him a feared defender and a clear frustration for opponents.

However, the asking price may be high, and any team that acquires him will have to make a decision on his 2027 fifth-year option. That particular option could pay him as much as $27 million in 2027.

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Chicago Cubs: former All-Star slugger in bad position as 2026 roster cuts loom

Robin Adams — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 14:37:25 +0000

The Chicago Cubs are getting closer and closer to figuring exactly what players will make up their 2026 Opening Day roster. Indeed, it has been an exciting spring thus far and numerous young players are primed to make the Major League roster. The hope, of course, is that they will improve on their 92-70 record from 2025 and compete for a World Series.

With all the young talent in Chicago, the future is certainly bright and it appears that it will remain so for some time. That being said, it also means that older players, some of them former All-Stars, may not make the roster.

Among them is outfielder Michael Conforto.

Michael Conforto is in danger of being a Chicago Cubs roster cut

Sep 27, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers left fielder Michael Conforto (23) scores a run against the Seattle Mariners during the ninth inning at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

Earlier this winter, the Cubs signed Michael Conforto to a minor league contract with an invitation to Spring Training. The hope for both parties was that the former All-Star slugger could rediscover his form in the Windy City.

Thus far, though, it sounds like he may be on the outside looking in, per The Athletic:

“The bench battle appears to be primarily three players fighting for two spots: Michael Conforto, Dylan Carlson and Chas McCormick.

“Numbers-wise, on offense, Carlson has put together the best spring so far. But that’s a dangerous game of both spring training numbers, which are largely meaningless, and small sample sizes. How they look means more than the pure results right now. Is the bat speed still there? Are they healthy? How is their defense?

“The latter may end up being a differentiator between McCormick and Carlson: Who can play better outfield defense, in particular, in center field? Talent evaluators are split on this, though most seem to lean toward McCormick. The recent advanced data doesn’t love either, although Outs Above Average gives the clear edge to McCormick.”

Conforto is hitting .273/.385/.364 with an RBI in four Spring Training games thus far. However, that may not be enough to earn him a spot on the Opening Day roster.

Last year, he had the worst season of his career while playing for the Los Angeles Dodgers. He hit just .199/.305/.333 with 12 home runs and 36 RBI in 138 games.

Known for his power bat, Conforto has not shown the pop he used to have when he hit 33 home runs for the New York Mets in 2019. If he cannot display that soon, he may not be playing in Chicago this year.

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Chicago Bears urged to re-sign All-Pro as highest priority move in NFL free agency

Robin Adams — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 14:23:01 +0000

The Chicago Bears have a number of needs that they need to address this off-season. Undoubtedly, with the legal tampering period of NFL free agency opening today, they will have plenty of opportunities to do so. Along with the NFL Draft next month, Chicago can add a number of talented players to their roster.

That being said, they would also do well to bring back some of their own impending free agents. Already, the Bears have agreed to deals with D’Marco Jackson and Daniel Hardy.

With players allowed to talk to teams starting today, the Bears would do well to lock up another player, Kevin Byard, as soon as possible.

The Chicago Bears should re-sign safety Kevin Byard

Chicago Bears safety Kevin Byard III (31) after an NFL International Series game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter van den Berg-Imagn Images

One of the positions that Chicago needs to address quickly in free agency is safety. Both of their starting safeties from the last few years, Byard and Jaquan Brisker, are set to hit the open market.

Brisker is going to get a nice second NFL contract from another team, but the 32-year-old Byard will be more affordable, and perhaps even better in the short-term. After all, the was an All-Pro last season while leading the league with seven interceptions.

Brisker struggled with injuries early in his career but, because he is younger, will command a longer and more expensive deal. On the other hand, Byard will get a shorter contract due to his age.

The fact is that the Bears defense led the NFL in turnovers forced last year, and Byard was the one who forced the most, account for nearly one-third of their interceptions total.

If Chicago wants to both improve on defense while still ensuring they can generate takeaways, it only makes sense to bring Byard back.

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Chicago Bears re-sign LB D’Marco Jackson ahead of 2026 NFL free agency

Robin Adams — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 12:51:22 +0000

The Chicago Bears are going to be active in NFL free agency. They have a wide variety of needs that they have to address on both sides of the ball. Among these is the safety position on defense, as both of their starting safeties from 2025 are set to hit the open market.

But while the next few days are going to bring some clarity about what the Bears plan to do, they have already begun addressing the roster. The DJ Moore trade helped them find a new starting center, and gave them an extra second round pick.

However, they have kicked off the first unofficial day of NFL free agency by bringing back one of their own.

The Chicago Bears have re-signed linebacker D’Marco Jackson

Chicago Bears linebacker D’Marco Jackson (48) tackles Green Bay Packers cornerback Bo Melton (16) in the kickoff during the first quarter of their game Saturday, December 20, 2025 at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois. Jackson was penalized for unnecessary roughness.

According to multiple NFL insiders, on Monday morning, the Bears agreed to a contract with linebacker D’Marco Jackson. He spent the 2025 NFL season in Chicago, his first with the Bears and third overall in the league:

#Bears are bringing back LB D’Marco Jackson on a 2 yr, $7.5 million deal worth up to 10.5 million, sources tell The Insiders. pic.twitter.com/09qRUUsfP1

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 9, 2026

The contract is a two-year deal worth $7.5 million, but can be worth up to $10.5 million with incentives.

A fifth round pick by the New Orleans Saints in the 2022 NFL Draft, Jackson missed his entire rookie season due to injury. He played mostly on special teams in 2023, recording 12 tackles. However, his 2024 season was cut short due to injury as well, and after training camp of 2025, the Saints released him.

He was then picked up by Chicago, who gave him more defensive snaps than he had in his first two seasons combined. He played 261 total defensive snaps (26%), but still saw most of his playing time on special teams.

Jackson had a career-high 43 tackles last season.

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Chicago Bears: Jaquan Brisker suggested to reunite with former coach on 49ers

Robin Adams — Sat, 07 Mar 2026 15:45:50 +0000

The Chicago Bears have a great deal of work to do this off-season in regards to their roster. They have certainly set themselves up for success, though, with the cost-saving measures they have taken so far. While Drew Dalman‘s retirement was unexpected, it did clear up some much-needed cap space. Furthermore, Chicago has parted ways with wide receiver DJ Moore and linebacker Tremaine Edmunds.

All told, these moves have given the Bears about $34 million in cap space with which to work.

That being said, they have many needs to fill and must be smart about how they spend this money. One player that they likely will not choose to pay is safety Jaquan Brisker, who is set to be a free agent.

Chicago Bears safety Jaquan Brisker could join Matt Eberflus on the San Francisco 49ers

Chicago Bears Jaquan Brisker celebrates a sack – Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images

Earlier this week, it was reported that former Bears head coach Matt Eberflus had been hired as an assistant defensive coach by the San Francisco 49ers. He is not the defensive coordinator; that role was filled by Raheem Morris.

Eberflus himself was fired as the defensive coordinator of Dallas Cowboys after just one season earlier this winter. Now that he is with San Francisco, Matt Barrows, who covers the 49ers for The Athletic, believes Brisker could join him there:

“The 49ers showed interest in Brisker before the 2022 draft, before Eberflus’ Bears ended up taking him in the second round. He was also Brown’s teammate at Penn State. If the 49ers want to spend money to shore up the position, Brisker would be a good addition.”

The only problem with this, as Barrows notes later, is that San Francisco is pretty well set at the safety position already. With other needs on their roster, they likely would not give Brisker the kind of salary that he could receive elsewhere.

That being said, a reunion with Eberflus would be a benefit for the soon-to-be former Bears safety. He allowed the lowest completion percentages of his career playing under the former Chicago head coach, and might be less prone to giving up big plays if he were to sign in San Francisco.

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Chicago Bears: likely landing spot for Tremaine Edmunds revealed after release

Robin Adams — Sat, 07 Mar 2026 12:15:54 +0000

The Chicago Bears had quite the busy day on Thursday. First, they traded wide receiver DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills for a second round pick. This move freed up millions of dollars in salary cap space that the team can use to address other needs on their roster.

Not long after the trade was announced, it was also revealed that Chicago had released linebacker Tremaine Edmunds in a move to free up even more salary cap space. The Bears had previously given Edmunds permission to seek out a trade. However, it is obvious now that no suitors could be found.

Chicago Bears linebacker Tremaine Edmunds could sign with the New York Giants

Dec 20, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears linebacker Tremaine Edmunds (49) poses for a television camera with safety Kevin Byard III (31) after recovering a fumble against the Green Bay Packers during the third quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images

After Chicago released Edmunds, several NFL analysts responded to the news with the team they believe will be his next landing spot:

I mean……. Probably a Giant https://t.co/WfLvcJH3qF

— Alex Wilson (@AlexWilsonESM) March 6, 2026

The Giants had interest in trading for Tremaine Edmunds. They will definitely have interest in signing him now that he’s a free agent. https://t.co/Eqep06d12G

— Anthony Rivardo (@Anthony_Rivardo) March 6, 2026

We’ll find out how real the Giants’ interest is now because no one was trading for that contract https://t.co/kDsREdXcCF

— Dan Duggan (@DDuggan21) March 6, 2026

Never got the sense Giants were interested in trading for Edmunds. We’ll see if they have interest now that he’s a feee agent. https://t.co/UqsAN2rWjk

— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) March 6, 2026

As one can see, the New York Giants were heavily linked to Edmunds in potential trade talks. However, due to his immense cap hit, they, and every other NFL team, decided not to trade for him. Now, they can sign him for less money as a free agent.

Meanwhile, the Bears saved $15 million by releasing the Pro Bowl linebackers and now have $34 million in salary cap space available.

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Chicago Cubs: Carson Kelly gets low ranking among 2026 MLB starting catchers

Robin Adams — Sat, 07 Mar 2026 12:15:25 +0000

The Chicago Cubs boast a roster of many young players that are considered to be among the best at their various positions. Indeed, six Cubs players were recently included on ESPN’s list of the top 100 players in Major League Baseball.

There is also excitement around top prospect Moises Ballesteros, who is expected to start the year with Major League club. The catcher/first baseman has nothing left to prove in the minors, at least with his bat.

That being said, he is expected to primarily be Chicago’s designated hitter as Carson Kelly and Miguel Amaya are ahead of him defensively at catcher.

Chicago Cubs catcher Carson Kelly ranked in the bottom half of MLB catchers

Sep 30, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs catcher Carson Kelly (15) rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run in the fifth inning against the San Diego Padres during game one of the Wildcard round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

It may only be a matter of time, though, before Ballesteros takes over at catcher. While Kelly started 105 of his 111 games there last year, he is a career journeyman for a reason. Bleacher Report just ranked him as the 17th-best catcher in Major League Baseball. There are 30 MLB teams:

Offense: 421 PA, 119 OPS+, .249/.333/.428, 31 XBH (17 HR), 50 RBI
Defense: 864.0 INN, 4 DRS, -4.2 FRM, 23/67 CS
WAR: 3.6

“The Cubs signed Kelly to a two-year, $11.5 million deal last offseason, and he filled a bigger role than expected when injuries limited Miguel Amaya to just 28 games. He set career-high marks in hits (92), home runs (17), RBIs (50), and WAR (3.6), though much of that damage came during the first half when he logged an .899 OPS and 12 homers in 62 games.”

Kelly is entering the final year of his contract, and will Ballesteros ready for the Majors, it is more than likely that this will be his final season in Chicago.

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Chicago Cubs: Moises Ballesteros role on Major League roster is painfully obvious

Robin Adams — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 23:34:50 +0000

The Chicago Cubs have one of the most exciting young rosters in Major League Baseball. Coming off of a season in which they went 92-70, many believe that they will only get better in 2026 and, perhaps, compete for a World Series this upcoming year. And best of all, they have more young Major League ready prospects ready to contibrute.

Among these, and perhaps the most notable, is Moises Ballesteros. After a successful cup of coffee in the Majors late last season, Ballesteros, Chicago’s top prospect, appears poised to make the Opening Day roster. And when/if he does, there really is just one place where the Cubs can put him.

Moises Ballesteros will likely be the Chicago Cubs DH

MLB: Chicago Cubs at Los Angeles Dodgers
Feb 20, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Chicago Cubs designated hitter Moises Ballesteros against the Los Angeles Dodgers during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

In his first 20 games in the Big Leagues, Ballesteros hit .298/.394/.474 with two home runs and 11 RBI. Down at Triple-A last year, he hit .316/.385/.473 with 13 home runs and 76 RBI in 114 games.

Of those 114 games, Ballesteros played 71 of them at catcher and three at first base.

At the Major League level, though, Chicago has Michael Busch entrenched at first base. He is coming off of a year that saw him hit 34 home runs, and their plan is have them there nearly everyday, even against left-handed pitchers.

Catcher, of course, is held down by Miguel Amaya and Carson Kelly, both of whom are better defensive catchers than Ballesteros.

And so, it appears that the Cubs will be best served having their top prospect start the season and spend most of his time as their designated hitter in 2026. The fact, though, is that his ability to play both first base and catcher gives him some positional versatility, which means he can get some experience in the field as well.

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Chicago Bears: DJ Moore pens farewell to fans, takes parting shot at rival Packers

Robin Adams — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 18:08:49 +0000

The Chicago Bears made arguably the biggest trade of the NFL off-season thus far, sending DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills. In doing so, they cleared millions of dollars in cap space, which will allow them to address multiple needs in free agency. These could include finding a replacement for center Drew Dalman, who suddenly retired from the NFL earlier this week.

The trade ends Moore’s three tenure with the Bears. He was originally acquired by Chicago ahead of the 2023 in their blockbuster trade with the Carolina Panthers for the top pick in the NFL Draft that year. Famously, the Bears used the first round pick they received in return to select Caleb Williams first overall in 2024.

DJ Moore says farewell to Chicago Bears fans and gives the Green Bay Packers a parting insult

Jan 10, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver DJ Moore (2) makes the eventual game winning touchdown catch against the Green Bay Packers during the second half of an NFC Wild Card Round game at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

Moore’s trade to Buffalo came as the result of his massive cap hit in 2026 (and beyond) as well as the fact that his role decreased in the offense. He went from 140 targets in 2024 to just 85 in 2025 as younger wide receivers emerged.

Make no mistake, though. Moore greatly enjoyed his time in Chicago, as he stated in a farewell post to fans on his Instagram account:

Chicago!!

I Wanna Say Appreciate all the love and support the last three years. My family and I were proud to call this place home and this community has been unbelievable to us. We will miss you all.

To the fans, you all embraced me with open arms from my first day here. I gave my all every time I stepped on the field and hopefully I made you all proud with the way I performed. We have some unbelievable memories at Soldier Field and you all are a huge part of them!!

To my Bears teammates, coaches and staff, I enjoyed going to work with you every day. I’ll miss seeing you all at Halas Hall. You all made me grateful every day to be a Chicago Bear!! I Appreciate you all.

& It’s Always F……

The last line, of course, is a reference to the Green Bay Packers. Moore embraced the rivalry with Green Bay and played a big role in Chicago’s win over them in the playoffs this year.

Moore ends his three seasons with the Bears with 244 receptions, 3,012 yards, and 20 touchdowns.

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Chicago Cubs: Dansby Swanson lands spot near the bottom of ESPN’s top 100 list

Robin Adams — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 12:00:58 +0000

Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson is entering Year Four of the seven-year contract that he signed with the team ahead of the 2023 MLB season. Since arriving in Chicago, Swanson has made an All-Star team, won a Gold Glove, and has provided stability at one of the most important defensive positions on the field.

He may not be the biggest star on the team, but he also does not have to be. Indeed, Swanson benefits from being in a lineup that does not require him to carry the team, offensively or defensively. That being said, he also is no slouch.

In fact, he is still considered to be one of the best players in baseball.

Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson lands on ESPN’s top 100 list

ESPN recently released a list of their top 100 players in Major League Baseball. Several Cubs players found their names on the list, including Swanson, who came in at number 82:

“Believe it or not, but in three seasons for the Cubs, Swanson has put up almost as much bWAR as he did during seven seasons in Atlanta — 14.9 (Braves) vs. 13.6 (Cubs). His performance in Chicago so far has more than justified the club’s faith that the value spike he enjoyed in his final Atlanta season represented a legit level of play and not just a career season.

“Swanson strikes out a lot and always will, but he’s reliably league average at the plate. When you add in the value he brings on the bases and his role anchoring Chicago’s airtight infield defense, you’ve got a winning player whom the Cubs have been able to build around.”

Swanson’s 24 home runs in 2025 were his most in any of his three seasons with Chicago. That being said, his .300 on base percentage was also his lowest. The Cubs will need him to, at least, trim down on his strikeouts a little.

That being said, he still is one of the best shortstops in the game and his Gold Glove-caliber defense justifies putting him in the lineup day in and day out.

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Chicago Bears trade of DJ Moore to Buffalo Bills is a win-win for both teams

Robin Adams — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 12:00:45 +0000

The Chicago Bears have been one of the most talked-about teams in the NFL so far this off-season. Of course, a great deal of this has to do with their rumored interest in acquiring Las Vegas Raiders star Maxx Crosby. Indeed, Crosby is one of the hottest names on the trade market, but his salary and Las Vegas’ asking price is steep.

Many assumed that, if the Bears were to acquire Crosby, wide receiver DJ Moore would be a part of the trade package heading to the Raiders. However, earlier today it was reported that he is actually being sent to the Buffalo Bills.

The Chicago Bears trade of DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills is a win-win

As reported here, the Bears sent Moore to the Bills in exchange for a mid-round pick. NFL insider Ian Rapoport was the first to report the deal:

Sources: The #Bears are trading veteran WR DJ Moore to the #Bills, landing Josh Allen another weapon. It’s a mid-round pick compensation going back. pic.twitter.com/vtFCiXhsbs

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 5, 2026

Moore ends his three seasons in Chicago having put up totals of 244 receptions, 3,012 receiving yards, and 20 touchdowns.

The trade is a win-win for both teams, and for Moore himself. Chicago frees up nearly $17 million of salary cap space, which it will need to add players in free agency. This is especially important as they are primed to be serious players in the center market following the retirement of Drew Dalman. Additionally, the added cap space makes adding Crosby in a trade more feasible.

On the other hand, the trade benefits both Moore and Buffalo. The Bills did not have a clear-cut number one wide receiver, and now they do in Moore. For his part, the now-former-Bears wide receiver saw his role on the offense diminish in 2025. He went from having 140 targets in 2024 to just 85 in 2025.

Chicago can now focus on spreading the ball around to its younger pass catchers, who will continue to develop. Meanwhile, Moore has the opportunity to be the WR1 on a team that is desperate to compete for a Super Bowl in 2026.

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Chicago Cubs: Alex Bregman gets power boost prediction on ESPN top 100 list

Robin Adams — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 03:39:13 +0000

The Chicago Cubs are one of the best young teams in Major League Baseball. They are one of baseball’s best teams when it comes to developing their own talent. Indeed, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Nico Hoerner, and Moises Ballesteros are all examples for talented players that Chicago brought up through their minor league system.

However, they also are an organization that realizes that some roster issues cannot be immediately solved in-house. That is why, this past off-season, they signed All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman to a five-year $175 million contract.

In addition to his Gold Glove defense and Silver Slugger bat, Bregman brings invaluable veteran leadership and World Series experience to Chicago. And ESPN believes the Cubs’ ballpark, Wrigley Field, has something to offer him as well.

Chicago Cubs star Alex Bregman lands on ESPN’s top 100 list

Feb 25, 2026; Mesa, Arizona, USA; Chicago Cubs third baseman Alex Bregman (3) hits a single against the Colorado Rockies in the first inning at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

Bregman was one of the most sought-after free agents on the market this off-season, and for good reason. He is widely regarded as one of the best players in the game, and ESPN put him at number 61 on their top-100 players list:

“The Cubs’ post-Ron Santo history at third base has been famously spotty, but if Bregman stays healthy enough to hold down the spot for the duration of his five-year contract, he’ll be just the third player to string together a half-decade at Chicago’s hot corner since Santo was traded after the 1973 season, joining Aramis Ramirez and Kris Bryant.

“The intangibles Bregman brings to a team are considerable and real. As for on-field production, he remains consistently good, if below the MVP-ish level he was at for a couple of years in Houston. If Bregman reads these rankings, he might find some motivation in them, as he’s the sixth-ranked third baseman on the list … which is good! But it still feels low for one of the game’s most respected players.”

Indeed, third base has been tough for the Cubs to nail down for a long-term period, as ESPN references. However, Bregman promises to provide some stability there for the next five years.

And in addition to that, ESPN also predicted in their explanation that, “he will climb back over the 25-homer mark this season.”

Bregman played 114 games last season and hit 18 home runs for the Boston Red Sox. Staying healthy and hitting in Wrigley Field could even help him hit 30 or more home runs for the first time since 2019.

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Chicago Cubs: Michael Busch gets bitter-sweet prediction on ESPN’s top 100 list

Robin Adams — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 00:21:27 +0000

The Chicago Cubs have put together a roster that, if all goes according to plan, will compete for a World Series in 2026. Coming off of a year in which they went 92-70, the Cubs may have gotten even better with the addition of Alex Bregman at third base. Additionally, Moises Ballesteros is likely going to make a significant impact as a rookie.

But it is the players returning from 2025, and years prior, that have formed the base of this talented Chicago team. One that often gets overlooked, though, is first baseman Michael Busch.

Entering his age 28 season, Busch is also entering just his third season with the Cubs. However, he also just landed on ESPN’s top 100 player list.

Chicago Cubs first baseman Michael Busch lands on ESPN’s top 100 players list

Busch, a left-handed slugger, is coming off of a year in which he hit .261/.343/.523 with 34 home runs and 90 RBI. He also struck out 139 times, which was actually down from his 162 strikeouts in 2024.

Still, his struggles against left-handed pitchers are well-documented, as was reflected on his 86th overall ranking on ESPN’s top 100 players list:

“Left-handers don’t always have an easy time hitting with power at Wrigley Field, and though Busch hit ‘only’ 13 of his 34 home runs there, he proved to be one of the better lefties in the game in 2025. His best quality is his mastery of the strike zone, which produced a .343 OBP last year, sometimes as a reliable leadoff hitter for manager Craig Counsell.

“Busch had that role in the postseason, forcing teams to use a lefty to open games as he ambushed the opponent early and often. Counsell says Busch will start against lefties this year, giving the 28-year-old more chances to add to his career high in home runs that he set last season.”

This all being said, while ESPN does think that Busch can increase his home run total in 2026, they also believe he will strikeout more than 150 times in the process.

The power that he brings to the lineup, though, may be worth it.

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Chicago Bears: missing pieces on offense and defense revealed of 2026 NFL season

Robin Adams — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 16:38:50 +0000

The Chicago Bears had one of the most drastic turnarounds in 2025. After going 5-12 the year before, Chicago hired Ben Johnson as their head coach. Additionally, they surrounded him and franchise quarterback Caleb Williams with the tools they needed to revamp their offense.

Defensively, the Bears brought in Dennis Allen as their defensive coordinator. Under his guidance, Chicago’s defense led the NFL in turnovers forced, but ranked near the bottom of the league in yards and points allowed per game.

Additionally, the Bears are primed to lose several of their most important players to free agency. As a result, the needs the team must focus on are clearly identifiable.

The Chicago Bears are urged to acquire Maxx Crosby (or Trey Hendrickson) and address left tackle

Bleacher Report recently released an article in which they identified the missing pieces on offense and defense for each NFL team. Offensively, the Bears are in pretty good shape. Or at least they were until Drew Dalman suddenly retired. Additionally, the prospect of losing Braxton Jones in free agency has revealed a bit of a concern at left tackle:

“Unfortunately, the Bears will again be searching for an answer at left tackle. Ozzy Trapilo’s promising rookie season ended on a disappointing note with a patellar tear that could see him miss all of 2026. Bringing back Braxton Jones or drafting another Day 2 project like Markel Bell could be an option.”

Ozzy Trapillo will not be able to play in 2026 and Jones is not guaranteed to return in free agency. Left tackle, and now center, must be key areas of focus this off-season.

On the defensive side of the ball, it should come as no surprise that BR, like many fans and other analysts, would love to see the Bears add Maxx Crosby via trade or sign Trey Hendrickson in free agency. Indeed, either one of those moves would greatly benefit Chicago’s defense.

That being said, they also must address the safety position with Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker hitting free agency.

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Chicago Bears: reason for Drew Dalman sudden retirement revealed by team insider

Robin Adams — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 12:30:18 +0000

Last off-season, the Chicago Bears signed center Drew Dalman to a three-year $42 million contract. Their hope, of course, was that he would help solidify their interior offensive line. And he certainly did. Dalman anchored a Bears offensive line that emerged as one of the best in the NFL. He even made his first career Pro Bowl.

Unfortunately, it will also be his last Pro Bowl selection. On Tuesday, it was reported that Dalman decided to retire from the NFL at the young age of 27.

Obviously, this news came as a shock to fans. Aside from that, though, it puts the Bears in a position to fill another need on top of the ones they already had.

Reason for Chicago Bears center Drew Dalman retirement revealed

Nov 9, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) celebrates with center Drew Dalman (52) after scoring the game-winning touchdown against New York Giants during the fourth quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

Of course, at the time his retirement was announced, no reason for it was given. Neither the Bears organization nor Dalman have gone on record with an explanation for his decision.

However, Chicago insider Carmen Vitali revealed on The Score Chicago:

“The Chicago Bears were kind of trying to steer Drew Dalman in another direction … they did not want Drew Dalman to retire.

“The notion that I got from people close to the situation was … listen, his dad was a player. His dad was a coach. He has seen what this game can do to you in your life after football, and for better or for worse, this man is a Stanford man. He’s very very smart. He knows what that toll can be. He’s seen it first hand.”

As can be seen from this explanation, Dalman retired because he was concerned about the effects the game of football would have on his body and his future. This, of course, is a more than understandable reason for stepping away from the game. There are far too many stories of former professional football players being permanently disabled due to injuries suffered during their careers.

By stepping away from the NFL, Dalman is ensuring that he can be a present and healthy father to his children and husband to his wife.

To be sure, fans are well within their right to be disappointed that they cannot watch him play football anymore. But at the end of the day, it is his body and his future, and he made the decision that he felt was best for him and his family.

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Chicago Bears: Jaquan Brisker predicted to depart for rebuilding NFC team in 2026

Robin Adams — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 09:06:23 +0000

It is no secret that the Chicago Bears are going to have to address their safety room this off-season. After an All-Pro and Pro Bowl nod in 2025, Kevin Byard is set to become a free agent. At 32 years old, there is a good chance that his next NFL contract will be his last. Whether he wants to remain with the Bears is yet to be seen.

Jaquan Brisker, on the other hand, is hitting free agency for the first time in his NFL career. Wherever his next contract takes him, it will likely be a significant raise from what he made on his Bears rookie deal.

What is more, there has not been much talk of Chicago being willing to retain him anyway. Some of this has to do with the Bears’ salary cap situation.

But there will be plenty of teams interested in Brisker, including the Dallas Cowboys.

Chicago Bears safety Jaquan Brisker predicted to sign with the Dallas Cowboys

Nov 28, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Chicago Bears safety Jaquan Brisker (9) reacts after the Philadelphia Eagles were unable to complete a two-point conversion during the fourth quarter of the game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

In a recent article in which USA Today‘s Christian D’Andrea predicted where 32 of the NFL’s top free agents will end up, he linked Brisker to Dallas:

“Dallas has one of the worst cap situations in 2026, which may disqualify Jerry Jones from many of the spring’s top free agents. Fortunately, there’s a lot of space that can be freed up by restructuring and extending star players the Cowboys want to keep around.

“That could liberate them to bolster the secondary with Brisker, who can handle several roles in the defensive backfield and may come at a reasonable price after four good, rarely great seasons in Chicago.”

Spotrac has Brisker’s market value has three years and $33.3 million, which seems to be the kind of contract that the cap-strapped Cowboys could make work.

Christian Parker, the new defensive coordinator in Dallas, may even be able to help Brisker improve in his weakest coverage areas. Parker, after all, is a defensive back guru who has helped many young secondary players find success in the NFL.

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NFL Rumors: Chicago Bears linked to former Saints CB to improve overall defense

Robin Adams — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 21:33:37 +0000

The Chicago Bears certainly had one of the most exciting defenses in the NFL last year. After all, they led the league in turnovers forced and turnover differential. That being said, they made a living on being a bend but don’t break defense, which made their overall numbers rather unspectacular.

Indeed, the Bears ranked 29th in the NFL, giving up 361.8 total yards per game. They ranked 21st in the NFL allowing 227.4 passing yards per game, and 27th in the league allowing 134.5 rushing yards per game. Chicago’s scoring offense ranked 24th in league, as they allowed 24.4 points per game.

Clearly, if the Bears are going to take the next step to competing for a Super Bowl, they need to improve those numbers.

Chicago Bears linked to New Orleans Saints CB Alontae Taylor ahead of NFL free agency

Dec 28, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; New Orleans Saints cornerback Alontae Taylor (1) hits Tennessee Titans quarterback Cameron Ward (1) as he throws a pass during the second half at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

Even though Chicago all of a sudden has more salary cap space that they thought they would following the retirement of Drew Dalman, they still need to be wise with how they spend their money.

To that end, one affordable free agent cornerback that they could target is Alontae Taylor from the New Orleans Saints. Tyler Dragon of USA Today recently listed Chicago as the best fit for Taylor, writing:

“Taylor has the versatility to play in the slot or outside corner. His seven career sacks rank first in Saints history for sacks by a cornerback. The Bears ranked 29th in total defense, the worst among all playoff teams in 2025.”

While Dragon’s argument makes sense, it should be noted that Taylor had a rough go of it over the last two years. Granted, he was playing on a woeful Saints defense.

That being said, over the last two seasons, Taylor has allowed 1,460 yards and 13 touchdowns when targeted. In 2024, opposing quarterbacks had a passer rating of 111.0 when targeting him. He improved in this facet in 2025, but still gave up a 98.2 passer rating when targeted.

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Chicago Cubs: Nico Hoerner lands spot on ESPN’s top 100 MLB players list

Robin Adams — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 21:10:42 +0000

The Chicago Cubs have one of the most talented young rosters in all baseball. Indeed, they boast players all over the diamond that many experts, analysts, and fans consider to be among the best at their positions. Pete Crow-Armstrong, of course, is perhaps the brightest young star on the roster after his 30-30 season last year.

But he is not the only rising star in Chicago. Michael Busch is widely regarded as a top-10 first baseman, and Nico Hoerner is a two-time Gold Glove winner at second base. He is also coming off the best offensive season of his career.

Perhaps that is why Hoerner garnered a spot on ESPN’s top 100 players list.

Chicago Cubs star Nico Hoerner ranked on ESPN’s top 100 list

Jun 24, 2025; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner (2) reacts after hitting a two run home run against the St. Louis Cardinals during the sixth inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images

On Wednesday, ESPN released their list of the top 100 players across Major League Baseball. Hoerner came in ranked at 55th with the following explanation:

“Quick, who’s the only player to finish in the top 45 in fWAR last season while hitting fewer than 10 home runs? It’s Hoerner, who actually ranked 27th with 4.8 fWAR. He did everything exceptionally well on the baseball diamond except hit for power.

“That includes Gold Glove-caliber defense, incredible contact with men on base (.371 RISP), few strikeouts (49) and a whole bunch of stolen bases (29) while helping the Cubs to the postseason. Hoerner was, and is, the quintessential winning player that every team in MLB would love to employ.”

Last season, Hoerner hit .297/.345/.397 with seven home runs, 61 RBI (career high), and 29 stolen bases. He won his second career Gold Glove and finished 19th in NL MVP voting.

ESPN also included the following prediction for Hoerner this year:

“After a late-season power surge that got him to seven homers last year, Hoerner hits at least 15 home runs for the first time in his career. That will help his free agency case this winter — unless the Cubs make him an offer he can’t refuse before November. “

Hoerner’s career high in home runs is 10, which he accomplished in 2022.

As ESPN notes, Hoerner is entering the last year of his contract with the Cubs and is set to be a free agent in 2027. Like many players, he may put together an extra special season as he heads into free agency, setting himself up for a big day next winter.

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Chicago Bears: 3 affordable free agent centers who could replace Drew Dalman after retirement announcement

Robin Adams — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 21:00:10 +0000

Last off-season, the Chicago Bears signed free agent center Drew Dalman to help fix their woeful offensive line. He certainly played a huge role in the unit’s turnaround, making the Pro Bowl in his first season with the Bears. It also turns out that his first year in Chicago is also his last. Despite having two more seasons left on his contract, the 27-year-old surprisingly retired from the NFL yesterday.

Obviously, this decision leaves the Bears with a glaring hole to fill. The can, of course, look in the NFL Draft for a center because this year’s crop of interior offensive linemen is pretty deep.

However, Chicago may want a veteran center for the time being as they continue their quest to take their next step to Super Bowl contention. If this is the case, there are several affordable options on the impending free agent market.

1. Tyler Biadasz

Sep 21, 2025; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Commanders center Tyler Biadasz (63) walks off the field after the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images

Chicago did not waste any time looking for a replacement at center. Not long after Dalman’s retirement was reported, it was also announced that they were hosting Tyler Biadasz on a visit:

The #Bears are hosting free agent center Tyler Biadasz on a visit, source said. The former #Commanders starter was recently released and now is available before the frenzy begins. pic.twitter.com/83dx8sec4X

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 3, 2026

Biadasz, who went to college at Wisconsin, was recently released by the Washington Commanders. He spent the first four seasons of his career with the Dallas Cowboys and made a Pro Bowl in 2022.

As a bonus: it is pretty well-known that Chicago’s rival, the Green Bay Packers, are interested in Biadasz. Ryan Poles could swipe one of their few free agent targets right out from under them.

2. Sean Rhyan

Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love (10) talks with guard Sean Rhyan (75) during the first quarter of their wild card playoff game against the Chicago Bears Saturday, January 10, 2026 at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois.

Speaking of the Packers, they are not expected to bring back impending free agent interior lineman Sean Rhyan. A former third round pick, Rhyan has experience mostly as a guard in the NFL.

However, when Green Bay’s starting center, Elgton Jenkins, went down with a broken leg midway through last season, Rhyan was the one the Packers chose to fill that role.

He performed admirably, though far from perfectly. If Chicago were to go this route, they could sign him to a short-term contract and allowing him to play while they draft and develop their center of the future.

Worst case scenario: they sign him and he ends up being an above-average guard for the Bears.

3. Cade Mays

Dec 21, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers center Cade Mays (64) runs on to the field before the game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Cade Mays started his career with the Carolina Panthers as an offensive guard. Over the last two years, though, he has been their starting center.

The concern here, though, is that he has not played a full 17 games in a season once in his four-year career. That being said, that is part of what makes him so affordable in free agency.

PFF gave Mays a 69.4 pass blocking grade in 2025, which ranked 13th among centers. However, he also had a 58.4 run blocking grade, which ranked 33rd among centers.

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Chicago White Sox: Colson Montgomery has bold prediction for 2026 MLB season

Robin Adams — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 17:41:03 +0000

Two seasons ago, the Chicago White Sox had one of the worst records in Major League Baseball history. The 1899 Cleveland Spiders still hold the all-time record for fewest wins, having finished that season 20-134. However, the White Sox hold the modern record, having finished 2024 with a record of 41-121 (the 1962 New York Mets were 40-120).

2025 saw Chicago finish 60-122, which of course was awful, but a near 20-game improvement. Indeed, White Sox fans are ready to see the city’s south side team finally put together a winner and return to postseason contention.

Colson Montgomery does not think they will have to wait much longer.

Colson Montgomery believes the Chicago White Sox will surprise people

Sep 27, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Chicago White Sox shortstop Colson Montgomery (12) celebrates with White Sox catcher Kyle Teel (8) after hitting a two run home run against the Washington Nationals during the fourth inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Montgomery, Chicago’s former top prospect, is one of the reasons why White Sox fans have been holding out hope that improvements will come. In 71 games last season, he hit .239/.311/.529 with 21 home runs and 55 RBI. Despite playing less than a full Major League season, Montgomery finished fifth in AL Rookie of the Year voting.

And as Spring Training progresses, the young short stop does not think fans will have to wait much longer for the White Sox to be competitive:

“I think it’s easy to say that we will surprise people. And we’re not even thinking it’s a surprise. We all believe it. I’m telling you, I’ve been here for five years now, and even last year it was different. Felt a little different.

“And now this year, everything is just trending in the right direction. I feel it. I believe it. I think that’s the biggest thing, everyone else believes it. It’s not like we think we have the pieces, we think it could go right. It’s like, no. We’ve seen it happen. We have seen us win. We believe that’s what is going to happen.”

As can be seen from Montgomery’s comments, the White Sox believe that they can win many games this year. Not next season. Not in a couple of years. Now.

It will certainly be interesting to see what happens with this young team full of promising young talent. Another 20-win improvement in 2025 would put them right around the .500 mark, and right in the thick of the MLB postseason picture.

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Chicago Bears: Jaquan Brisker predicted to be “disappointed” in 2026

Robin Adams — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 16:00:48 +0000

The Chicago Bears will see their entire starting safety core hit NFL free agency when the new league year begins. Kevin Byard was a First Team All-Pro and Pro Bowl selection this past season, and Chicago may try to retain him. Jaquan Brisker, on the other hand, just finished his rookie contract and will be looking for a significant pay raise on his next deal.

It is not sounding like the Bears are as interested in bringing him back.

And that may be just as well, as one NFL analyst believes that whichever team does sign him in free agency is not going to pay him what he may want.

Chicago Bears safety Jaquan Brisker predicted to be disappointed in 2026

Chicago Bears Jaquan Brisker celebrates a sack – Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images

Whereas Byard led the NFC with seven interceptions and had 93 tackles on his way to being an All-Pro, Brisker had just one interception (though he did have the same number of tackles. The real issue, though, is that opposing quarterbacks had a passer rating of 127.6 when targeting receivers covered by him.

After two consecutive seasons of giving up a 75.0% completion percentage when targeted, Moe Moton of Bleacher Report believes that any team that signs Brisker in free agent is going to be disappointed:

“Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles publicly mentioned All-Pro safety Kevin Byard as someone he wants to re-sign, which likely means the team will allow Jaquan Brisker to walk in free agency.

“Unlike Byard, who led the league with seven interceptions this past season, Brisker doesn’t force turnovers at a high rate, and that could work against him on the open market.

“Although Brisker can play both safety spots, he’s best suited to line up closer to the line of scrimmage and attack downhill, given his reliable tackling and physicality. However, that particular skill set doesn’t warrant a high-scale contract among safeties. The ball-hawking defenders get the big bucks.

“Moreover, teams may have sights set on a talented safety group in this year’s draft.

“If clubs are more intrigued by incoming safety prospects than a tone-setting veteran with limitations in coverage, Brisker could fall well short of his projected $11.1 million yearly market value rate, an estimate from Spotrac.”

Due to the number of high-quality safeties in the 2026 NFL Draft, teams that need more players at that position will not want to spend in free agency. At least, they will not want to spend heavily.

As Moton argues, this could mean that Brisker will not make the $11.1 million annual salary he may be expecting on his next deal.

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Chicago Cubs: 2026 projected starting rotation feature Cade Horton as ace

Robin Adams — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 12:08:24 +0000

The Chicago Cubs are heading into the 2026 MLB season with a gluttony of talented pitching. This is, of course, an ideal situation for any team, as 162 games are difficult to navigate healthily. Over the course of the year, the Cubs will undoubtedly use many different starting pitchers to help them achieve their goals.

That being said, the question right now is what pitchers will make up Chicago’s initial starting rotation. Additionally, which pitcher will be the Opening Day starter and, thereby, the staff ace?

There are, of course, multiple options with how deep their pitching depth is. But is may be Cade Horton who emerges as the Cubs’ ace in 2026.

Cade Horton projected to headline the Chicago Cubs starting rotation

Aug 29, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Cade Horton (22) pitches in the first inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

In a recent article, Bleacher Report predicted the starting rotations for each Major League Baseball team. Their picks for the Cubs’ initial rotation was as follows:

1. RHP Cade Horton
2. LHP Matthew Boyd
3. RHP Edward Cabrera
4. LHP Shota Imanaga
5. RHP Jameson Taillon

IL: LHP Justin Steele

And of Horton being the staff ace, they wrote:

“The Cubs have a strong rotation top-to-bottom, but there’s a case to be made that they are lacking a bona fide ace to anchor the staff. After going 8-1 with a 1.03 ERA in 61.1 innings after the All-Star break last season, Cade Horton has the potential to be that guy, or at least to bridge the gap until Justin Steele returns sometime before the All-Star break.”

In 23 games (22 starts) for the Cubs as a rookie last season, Horton was 11-4 overall with a 2.67 ERA and 1.09 WHIP.

The challenge for Horton, though, will be pitching deep into games and late into the season. Last year, between the minors and Majors, he pitched 147.0 innings. Ideally, a true ace will be able to give his team 200+ innings a year.

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NFL Rumors: Chicago Bears predicted to land 4x Pro Bowl Cincinnati Bengals pass rusher in free agency

Robin Adams — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 11:57:59 +0000

For weeks, the Chicago Bears have been named as a team to watch regarding Maxx Crosby. The Las Vegas Raiders superstar has been the subject of trade rumors for quite some time. Since the Bears have a need at edge rusher, they are, indeed, a logical fit.

That being said, the Raiders reportedly want the same kind of package the Green Bay Packers gave up for Micah Parsons. That is, two first round picks and a high-impact player.

It is yet to be seen, of course, if Chicago will be willing to give up that kind of package in order to get Crosby. However, one NFL analyst suggests they may not need to.

Chicago Bears predicted to sign Trey Hendrickson in NFL free agency

Oct 26, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson (91) runs out to the field before the game against the New York Jets at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

In a recent article in which he predicted the biggest free agent signing for every NFL team this off-season, Christian D’Andrea of USA Today forecasts the Bears landing four-time Pro Bowl pass rusher Trey Hendrickson:

“The Bears could make a move to land Maxx Crosby via trade. Or they could opt for the older Hendrickson without having to cough up significant draft considerations to recharge their pass rush. Hendrickson missed the bulk of 2025 with injury and had a career-low 14 percent pressure rate after averaging better than 19 percent in his four years as a Bengal that preceded it.

“But even a 14 percent pressure rate would be signfiicantly better than what Montez Sweat and Dayo Odeyingbo put up last fall.”

Prior to missing most of 2025, Hendrickson had back-to-back seasons in which he totaled 17.5 sacks each year.

The problem, though, is that Chicago does not have any salary cap space currently, and even when they become cap compliant, Hendrickson is sure to receive a massive contract in free agency.

The Bears may not be able to afford him. That being said, having him on the line would do wonders to improve the pass rush.

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MLB News: Chicago Cubs’ Matt Shaw politics may have prevented him from being traded after 2025 seasom

Robin Adams — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 23:51:57 +0000

In 2025, the Chicago Cubs were pleasantly surprised by the defense and production of infielder Matt Shaw. He finished ninth in National League Rookie of the Year voting after hitting .226/.295/.394 with 13 home runs, 44 RBI, and 17 stolen bases. Of the 126 games that he played, 124 of them saw him play third base.

Despite his exciting rookie season, though, Chicago looked for an upgrade at the hot corner this winter. Of course, they got one in Alex Bregman, a three-time All-Star who signed a five-year $175 million with the Cubs.

Now that Bregman is tied to the North Side for the next half decade, many have wondered if the Cubs may try to trade Shaw. Of course, they have not as of yet, and his role on the 2026 team is still undetermined.

Forbes writer suggests the Chicago Cubs could not trade Matt Shaw because of his politics

Fans may recall that, last season, Shaw missed a game (with permission from the organization) to attend the funeral of right-wing political figure Charlie Kirk, who was assassinated. Shaw’s decision was divisive among fans. Many stated that they felt he should have stayed with Chicago. There were, at the time, in the midst of a race for the MLB postseason.

“I felt as though it was something that was really important for me to do,” Shaw said when he returned to the team.

The Cubs, of course, went on to make the MLB Playoffs with a Wild Card spot, won their opening series, but were eliminated in the divisional series.

Now, Shaw has not been traded and is present with the team in Spring Training. He is even taking some reps in the outfield to further increase his value to the Major League roster.

But Dan Freedman of Forbes wonders if the Cubs were not able to trade Shaw (after acquiring Bregman) because of his political beliefs:

“Why haven’t the Cubs moved Shaw? At first blush, he would seem to be the ideal trade candidate. He is set to make just a hair above the $780,000 MLB minimum, plays multiple infield positions, and is now learning the outfield. Could it be that his politics have gotten in the way? Could teams other than the Cubs be shying away from a player who doesn’t hide his political leanings?

“Shaw’s choice to choose friendship over the pennant race does raise an interesting question about commitment and priorities. Societally, that may not be appropriate. Morally, that may not be proper.

“But this is professional sports, and players – especially young players, and especially rookies – need to prove their wares before they get special treatment or dispensation. Again, this is not a value judgment, just an acknowledgement of the world in which we live.”

The Chicago Cubs are better with Matt Shaw on the team

Freedman acknowledges that it would be better for the Cubs to have turned down any offers for Shaw because of how much they value him as a player. However, he is not certain that there was much buzz surrounding the young infielder.

All this to say that, regardless of Shaw’s politics, Chicago is better with him on the roster. He plays Gold Glove-caliber defense at third base. He can steal bases. And he is willing to play any position in order to get out on the field.

Bregman may have taken over third base, but Shaw still has years of club control and can play multiple positions. Teams should not just let guys like that go.

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Chicago White Sox: Edgar Quero gives honest reaction to manager’s 3-catcher comments

Robin Adams — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 18:46:36 +0000

The Chicago White Sox are in re-building mode. Despite this, they have a plethora of young and exciting players with which to build their 2026 MLB roster. While many do not expect the White Sox to compete for much this year, the future is certainly bright as their most talented young players compete for Major League at bats.

This is particularly true at the catcher position. Edgar Quero, Kyle Teel, and Korey Lee are all having solid starts to Spring Training, and each would easily be a part of any MLB team’s Major League roster.

The problem, though, is that teams do not usually carry three catchers on their rosters. In a few short weeks, the White Sox may be faced with a very difficult choice.

Edgar Quero is enjoying his time with the rest of the Chicago White Sox catchers

Mar 1, 2026; Mesa, Arizona, USA; Chicago White Sox catcher Edgar Quero (7) hits a solo home run against the Chicago Cubs in the first inning at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

Of the sudden quality depth he has at catcher, White Sox manager Will Venable said, “I think it really is going to take care of itself. We know that we like Kyle catching and hitting against righties. We know that Edgar can DH. We’ll have a couple of guys who will fill that DH spot vs. right-handed pitching.

“We like Edgar catching against the lefties. It doesn’t have to be a straight platoon. We don’t view it like that. We just know of the demand of the catching position, there will be lots of opportunities for them behind the plate.”

Quero has hit .529/.556/.824 with a home run and nine RBI in five Spring Training games.

When asked what he thought of competing with Teel and Lee for a spot on the roster, Quero said, “We’re happy to be here together. We don’t talk about that, we just do our job. We go out and try to do the best for the team, no matter what. It doesn’t matter who’s playing, the thing is to help your team to win.”

Teel is off to play for Team Italy in the World Baseball Classic, so Quero is continue to get opportunities in Spring Training. It will be interesting to see how the catcher situation sorts itself out.

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NFL Rumors: Chicago Bears-Tennessee Titans trade proposal sends Tremaine Edmunds to Titans

Robin Adams — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 11:53:57 +0000

The Chicago Bears are going to move on from Pro Bowl linebacker Tremaine Edmunds this off-season. With the Bears needing to clear salary cap space before the start of the new league year, trading or releasing Edmunds would result in a savings of about $15 million.

And while NFL teams could wait for Chicago to release Edmunds in order to sign him, any franchise that really wants him could trade for him and ensure he does not hit the open market. To that end, the Bears gave Edmunds permission to seek a trade ahead of the new league year.

NFL mock trade sees the Chicago Bears send Tremaine Edmunds to the Tennessee Titans

There are a number of NFL teams with salary cap space that could absorb Edmunds’ contract. What is more, they are also in need of solid linebacker play, something the two-time Pro Bowler has never failed to provide.

In his three seasons in Chicago, Edmunds never finished with less than 110 tackles.

According to Bleacher Report, the ever-rebuilding Tennessee Titans could be a potential destination:

“Edmunds logged 112 total tackles last year, but given that he’s entering the last year of the four-year, $72 million contract he signed in 2023 and his cap hit this season of $17.4 million, he’s not going to land a windfall in a trade. This is essentially a salary dump—one that would clear $15 million in cap space for the Bears.

“Cedric Gray logged a whopping 164 total stops last year for the Titans, but Cody Barton was a major disappointment in his first year in Nashville. Edmunds would offer the team a significant upgrade at the position, and Tennessee has more than enough cap space to absorb his salary.”

In return for Edmunds and a fifth round pick in this year’s NFL Draft, Chicago would receive a fourth round pick this year and a sixth round pick next year.

Not only would this trade allow the Bears to shed $15 million off their books, but it would also give them an extra fourth round pick (albeit at the expense of a fifth round selection). In any case, it would be a massive upgrade for Chicago.

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Chicago Cubs: 2026 Opening Day lineup projection sees exciting rookie make the team

Robin Adams — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 18:21:04 +0000

The Chicago Cubs are poised to be one of the most exciting teams in Major League Baseball this year. Pete Crow-Armstrong, of course, established himself last season by becoming one of the youngest players ever to post a 30-30 season. First baseman Michael Busch is coming off of a 34 home run campaign, and is now considered one of the best players at his position in the game.

Nico Hoerner, of course, is a two-time Gold Glove winner at second base. Alex Bregman, a Gold Glove and Silver Slugger winner, was signed to man third base.

But all of these players, as exciting as they may be, are known Major League commodities. Perhaps the most intriguing bat is that of top prospects Moises Ballesteros.

Moises Ballesteros predicted to make the Chicago Cubs Opening Day roster

Sep 16, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Chicago Cubs designated hitter Moises Ballesteros (25) prepares his bat before the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Ballesteros got his first taste of the Major last season, and did not disappoint. In 20 games, he hit .298/.394/.474 with two home runs and 11 RBI.

In their recent lineup projections of each Major League team, Bleacher Report predicts that not only will Ballesteros making the Opening Day roster, but he will also be starting:

Projected Lineup

1B Michael Busch
3B Alex Bregman
LF Ian Happ
RF Seiya Suzuki
CF Pete Crow-Armstrong
C Carson Kelly
2B Nico Hoerner
SS Dansby Swanson
DH Moisés Ballesteros (R)

IL: 1B Tyler Austin

And of Ballesteros, BR wrote:

“The Cubs appear ready to give Moises Ballesteros an everyday role after he posted a .999 OPS over 46 plate appearances in September, and he has nothing left to prove in the minors. If he struggles, it could open the door for someone from the non-roster invitee trio of Michael Conforto, Chas McCormick and Dylan Carlson to see semi-regular action in right field. There’s a good chance two of those guys will break camp with a roster spot.”

Ballesteros, a left-handed hitter, can provide Chicago depth at designated hitter, catcher, and first base. As noted above, he has nothing left to prove in the minors.

It is highly likely that he breaks camp with the Major League Cubs this year, and the eyes of baseball will be on him.

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Chicago White Sox: Braden Montgomery reveals Hall of Fame goal during 2026 Spring Training

Robin Adams — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 18:20:38 +0000

The Chicago White Sox have already made a decision on where Braden Montgomery will start the 2026 MLB season. Despite his production in Spring Training, they have announced that their top prospect will begin the year in the minor leagues.

This, of course, makes sense. He has not even played a Triple-A game yet. But the hype surrounding him is real. Last year, which he spent climbing Chicago’s farm system, he hit .270/.360/.444 with 12 home runs, 68 RBI, and 14 stolen bases.

In the 2025 Arizona Fall League, he hit .366/.527/.634 with a home run and 11 RBI (12 games).

Chicago White Sox top prospect Braden Montgomery wants to be a Hall of Fame player

Feb 27, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Chicago White Sox outfielder Braden Montgomery against the Milwaukee Brewers during a spring training game at American Family Fields of Phoenix. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

In the weekend’s win over the Cubs, Montgomery hit a home run and a triple. After the game, he revealed to Scott Merkin that he has his sights set on being a Hall of Fame player:

“But after homering and tripling during a 5-1 victory over the Cubs at Sloan Park Sunday, the White Sox second intracity win in two tries in Arizona, Montgomery listed a more grandiose baseball goal in line with his meticulous preparation and abundance of talent. The 22-year-old eventually wants to be a Hall of Famer.

“’I’ll take it a day at a time,’ a smiling Montgomery said after hitting one of four White Sox home runs. ‘We’ll see what happens at the end of it. We’ll see what happens when you’re goal-oriented and you take a pitch at a time, a second at a time.’”

As he notes himself, Montgomery knows he has a long road, a long career ahead. He cannot overlook the small steps that it will take for him to get to the Majors.

But based on his minor league season last year and how he is performing in Spring Training, it will not be a surprise to see him in the Big Leagues at some point in 2026.

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Chicago Cubs claim Ben Cowles (again), move off-season addition to 60-Day IL

Robin Adams — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 14:58:46 +0000

The Chicago Cubs are, of course, are still piecing together the pieces that will make up the Major League and minor league rosters in 2026. Earlier this off-season, they took one of their valuable organizational infield depth pieces, Ben Cowles, and placed him on waivers. Doing so allowed them to sign veteran relief pitcher Shelby Miller and add him to their 40-man roster.

Cowles, meanwhile, was claimed off of waivers by the Toronto Blue Jays. He even played several Spring Training games for them. However, they too placed him on waivers, not wanting to keep him on their 40-man roster either.

And so, in a weird twist of fate, Cowles is by with the Cubs.

The Chicago Cubs have claimed Ben Cowles again

Feb 19, 2026; Dunedin, FL, USA; Toronto Blue Jays infielder Ben Cowles (20) throws to first base during spring training at Bobby Mattick Training Center at Englebert Complex. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images

Per the team’s transaction wire, the Cubs have, once again, claimed Cowles off of waivers, this time from the Blue Jays. They first acquired him via trade with the New York Yankees in 2024.

In September of last year, the Chicago White Sox claimed Cowles after the Cubs placed him on waivers. He finished the 2025 season with the White Sox organization, but was claimed again by the Cubs in January of this year.

Toronto claimed Cowles when Chicago placed him on waivers to make room for Miller.

While the utility infielder is back with the Cubs, Miller is heading to the 60-day injured list as he recovers from Tommy John surgery. He is expected to miss the entire 2026 MLB season.

Cowles, meanwhile, is certainly going to be hoping he can crack the Major League roster. If he does not, the Cubs will almost certainly place him on waivers again. If he clears, they can outright him to Triple-A, which is probably what they would like to see happen.

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Chicago Bears see DJ Moore named as priority trade target of Super Bowl contender

Robin Adams — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 01:34:48 +0000

The Chicago Bears are going to be one of the most talked about teams of the NFL off-season. After an astounding turnaround under head coach Ben Johnson in 2025, the league has taken notice of what is going down in Chicago. An 11-6 record and NFC North title, along with a win in the NFL Playoffs, will do that.

As the off-season progresses, the Bears and every other team in the league will be looking for ways to improve their roster from a year ago. In Chicago, they must focus on replenishing their secondary, which is likely to get decimated by free agency. Additionally, they are going to be working on re-tooling their offense around quarterback Caleb Williams.

Due to salary cap space/fit, this means that some key contributors from last year and seasons past will not return. One of the players largely believed to be on the trading block is wide receiver DJ Moore.

Chicago Bears see DJ Moore named as trade target of the New England Patriots

As reported earlier this week, Bears general manager Ryan Poles would love to keep Moore in Chicago. However, they are aware of his salary cap hit and may be looking at other scenarios.

Since Moore is apparently on the trading block, there will be any number of teams interested in him. Sara Marshall of Musket Fire believes the New England Patriots should be one of them:

“It seems beyond clear at this point that if the Patriots want to make a massive impact on the offense this offseason, then trading for a receiver might be their best option. They won’t find what they need at the level they want in free agency, so using some of their draft capital to acquire appears to be the solution.

“At the very least, the Patriots need to seriously consider what value Moore can bring to their offense and give a trade real thought as they head into a pivotal 2026 season.”

Moore has certainly been a valuable member of the Bears team, but his receiving yard totals have been declining. He had an impressive 1,364 yards in 2023, but dipped to 966 in 2024 and 682 in 2025.

As Chicago moves forward, it is clear that they are going to be relying on their younger players more and more. It would be best for them to trade Moore for some extra draft capital, and better for Moore to go to a team where he will be utilized more.

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Chicago Cubs predicted to part ways with $85 million slugger after 2026 MLB season

Robin Adams — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 18:46:53 +0000

The Chicago Cubs have a plethora of talented outfielders on their roster. Of course, none of them are more exciting than 23-year-old Pete Crow-Armstrong. Last season, PCA became one of the youngest players in MLB history to post a 30 home run-30 stolen base season, hitting 32 long balls and swiping 35 bags.

Fortunately for the Cubs, PCA is still under club control for a long time. However, 2027 will be the beginning of his arbitration years, and Chicago will undoubtedly have to start paying him a high salary very soon.

And while they are going to be more than willing to give their brightest young star a raise, they are going to have to compensate for it by making some subtractions to their roster.

Chicago Cubs predicted to part ways with Seiya Suzuki after 2026

With PCA on the precipice of making significant money in arbitration and beyond, Zachary Rotman of Fansided believes that 2026 will the the last year for Seiya Suzuki in Chicago:

“The Cubs are in an interesting spot with two of their three starting outfielders, Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki, hitting free agency after the year. While ideally both would be in Chicago for a while longer, re-signing both Happ and Suzuki while also paying Crow-Armstrong would be more costly than the Cubs would likely be comfortable with.

“If the Cubs can only re-sign one of them, Happ should be prioritized. Sure, he’s not quite the hitter Suzuki is, but Happ isn’t much worse offensively, and he’s won four straight Gold Gloves out in left field. He has also spent all nine of his big league seasons with the Cubs, and given his desire to stay long-term, he might be open to a team-friendly deal.”

The fact of the matter, too, is that Suzuki has not exactly lived up to expectations since signing a five-year $85 million contract with the Cubs. Last year was the first time he hit over 30 home runs and drove in over 100 runs.

If he takes a step back at all in 2026, it will almost surely make Chicago’s decision an easy one when it comes to letting him go.

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NFL Rumors: Chicago Bears LB Tremaine Edmunds linked to 3 NFL teams in trade rumors

Robin Adams — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 18:00:54 +0000

Earlier this week, it was reported that the Chicago Bears had given permission for linebacker Tremaine Edmunds to seek a trade. Due to count over $17 million against the NFL salary cap in 2026, the Bears could save $15 million by releasing or trading their star linebacker.

In three seasons with Chicago, Edmunds has recorded 110 or more tackles each year. The two-time Pro Bowler was one of general manager Ryan Poles‘ first major free agent signings. Unfortunately, his time with the Bears appears to have come to an end.

While simply releasing Edmunds would provide cap relief, trading him would do the same and net Chicago some assets in return.

Chicago Bears linebacker Tremaine Edmunds has a good trade market

The Bears and other NFL teams have representatives present at the scouting combine in Indianapolis. Of course, players agents are also present, both as representatives of the prospects and of veteran NFL players.

These agents often leak tidbits of information to the media, and one such whisper is that Edmunds has a pretty significant trade market:

“One player who has strong trade value and a decent chance to be dealt is Bears linebacker Tremaine Edmunds. The Titans, Raiders and Giants are among teams interested in high-end linebackers, and they like Edmunds, who’s only 27 despite eight years in the league. He was granted permission to seek a trade earlier this week.”

As noted above, the Tennessee Titans, Las Vegas Raiders, and New York Giants are among the teams that have shown interest in Edmunds.

These teams, of course, could wait for Edmunds to hit the open market when/if he is released by Chicago. However, the fact that he has so many teams interested in him may cause one or more of them to make an offer to the Bears. Otherwise, they might risk losing out on signing him to another team on the open market.

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3 Chicago Cubs players predicted to be National League All-Stars in 2026

Robin Adams — Sat, 28 Feb 2026 18:48:31 +0000

The Chicago Cubs have assembled one of the most talented rosters in Major League Baseball. That is, at least, on paper. A full 162-game season has to be played in order to get a full understanding of just how good (or bad) any team is. That being said, there are many reasons to be optimistic about this Cubs team.

Last year, the Cubs finished 92-70, but just two of their players were named to the National League All-Star team. Those were Pete Crow-Armstrong and Kyle Tucker. PCA is just 23 years old and is coming off of a 30-30 season. Tucker, of course, signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers in free agency.

Recently, David Schoenfield of ESPN made his way-too-early predictions for the 2026 MLB All-Star teams. While Tucker was predicted to be an NL All-Star, PCA was not.

Chicago Cubs players Nico Hoerner, Alex Bregman, and Micahel Busch predicted to be NL All-Stars

Feb 11, 2026; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs Alex Bregman (3) gets ready to hit during spring training camp at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

Despite losing Tucker and PCA not being predicted to be an All-Star, three Cubs position players ended up on ESPN’s list of predicted National League All-Stars.

Nico Hoerner: 2nd Base starter

Schoenfield predicted that fans will vote Nico Hoerner as the starter at second base, writing:

“Ketel Marte is the default pick at second base because of his .913 OPS over the past two seasons, the sixth-best mark in the majors. Hoerner is a much different player than Marte, getting much of his value from his glove and legs, but he also hit .297 with a .345 OBP and topped Marte in WAR in 2025 (6.2 to 4.4). Durability is a key, as Hoerner has topped 150 games three straight years while Marte has averaged 137 games over those three seasons.”

Another thing to consider about Hoerner is that he is entering a contract year. He has all the motivation in the world to put together a career year. He has never been an All-Star before.

Alex Bregman: 3rd Base starter

Chicago’s biggest off-season addition, Alex Bregman, made three AL All-Star teams in his 10-year career. Schoenfield predicts he will make his first NL All-Star team in his first year with the Cubs:

“Bregman has been a consistent two-way performer and was on his way to another four-win season with the Red Sox in 2025 if not for a quad strain. He and Machado are similar at this point: Machado has averaged 3.3 WAR the past three seasons with a 117 OPS+ while Bregman is at 4.2 and 121, both now in their early 30s. Riley might have the most upside here but has battled injuries the past two seasons, so I’m going with Bregman, who I think has a big year ahead at Wrigley Field.”

Bregman was an All-Star with the Boston Red Sox last year, hitting .273/.360/.462 with 18 home runs and 62 RBI. His numbers may look even better in 2026 playing in hitter-friendly Wrigley Field.

Michael Busch: 1st Base reserve

While Schoenfield predicts that Matt Olson of the Atlanta Braves will be the starting first baseman in the National League, he does think Michael Busch will be named as a reserve. What makes this somewhat of a bold prediction is that he left of Los Angeles Dodgers star Freddy Freeman, who has made the NL All-Star team in seven of the last eight seasons.

The only year he did not was 2020, when there was no All-Star Game, and Freeman won NL MVP.

That being said, the fact that Busch was named as a reserve above him is a testament to how well-regarded the Cubs first baseman is.

No Chicago pitchers were predicted to be All-Stars.

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