We know who is going to be in the starting rotation in spots 1, 2 & 3 but who is going to take the 4th and 5th spots.   Adbert Azolay ended 2021 in the bullpen after starting the first 2/3rds of the season.  Justin Steele was stretched out for August and September but how did he do?  Is he ready to take on the 5th starter spot?  Keegan Thompson started a couple of games at the end of 2021 but didn't make it past the 2nd inning.  
I dig into the data and see what options the Cubs have for 2022.    2 of the 3 pitchers stepping up in 2022 would put the team on the fast track back into relevancy.   

Mark goes through the Top 9 candidates for the replacement of Matt Nagy.   The odds are out there right now and he makes his pick on where the money should go.    It's a quick look at each candidate. 

Matt Nagy has been terminated along with Ryan Pace.   Let's talk about it.   
The Cubs set the framework for how a successful sports franchise is run.  Use that as the framework for rebuilding the Bears.  

This episode is the preview to the upcoming Sunday January 9th matchup between the Bears and the Vikings from up north.  
Mark breaks down players to follow on the offense and defense for this upcoming matchup. 

James Daniels,  Artie Burns and the possible farewell to Eddie Goldman. 

Mark reflects on the Yu Darvish trade about 1 year after the trade.   He looks at the 2021 seasons of Yu Darvish  & Victor Caratini then digs into the prospects that came over in the deal.   Owen Caissie, Reginald Preciado, Yeison Santana and Ismael Mena.   

This episode is the initial response to the Bears 29-3 victory over the NY Giants.  

Mark breaks down 2 things he loved about the game and 2 things that he disliked.   

Feedback and Questions are welcome.  Send them to mark@markfranzenvoice.com.  

GO Bears!