Welcome back to the MMCS and please enjoy the following description presented by a Free AI production trial. This episode is presented by THIRSTY VAQUERO: A Mexican-style soda with a signature spicy finish you can find on AMAZON.
The playoff-bound Cubs just experienced their first four-game losing streak of the season, getting swept by the red-hot Cincinnati Reds. But fear not, Chicago faithful - the Monday Morning Cubs Show hosts aren't panicking yet. With their playoff ticket punched and home field advantage within reach, there's still plenty to feel good about despite the offensive struggles.
Behind the theme "We're not that mad," we analyze what went wrong in Cincinnati and why facing Hunter Green and Andrew Abbott might actually provide valuable experience for October baseball. The magic number to clinch home field advantage stands at just four - any combination of Cubs wins and Padres losses totaling four secures those crucial playoff games at Wrigley Field.
The conversation takes an intriguing turn as we examine Kyle Tucker's mysterious absence from the team. Currently in Florida seeking a "second opinion" on his calf injury, questions swirl about whether we'll see the trade deadline acquisition in a Cubs uniform again. His absence from the playoff-clinching celebration has raised eyebrows, with implications for both the playoff roster and potential free agency.
Amid these current concerns, the show pauses to honor Kyle Hendricks, who just announced his retirement. "The Professor" joins Anthony Rizzo in officially closing the book on the 2016 championship era, symbolizing the complete transition to this new generation of Cubs baseball ready to create their own October memories.
Looking ahead to those playoff matchups, we debate the rotation order (Shota or Horton for Game 1?) and project the likely lineup when the Wild Card series begins. With six games remaining against the struggling Mets and rival Cardinals, there's still time to build momentum - crucial since 17 of the last 20 pennant winners had winning records in September.
Ready to experience playoff baseball again at Wrigley? Join us Thursday for more Cubs talk as the postseason picture comes into focus!
Thanks for tuning in!
- Carl & Mahoney
