Cubs' Wild Ride: From Wicks' Woes to AppleTV Trial reminders

The Leadoff Man

Dive into today’s action-packed issue where Jordan Wicks tackled immense pressure reminiscent of former anxiety-inducing Cubs pitcher Mitch Williams. As we prepare for tomorrow’s game with Shota Imanaga taking the mound, we’re stirring up a bit of fun with a little superstition talk. Can we jinx the team? Also, don't let those sneaky subscription trials catch you off guard.

Wicks’ Early Struggles

Jordan Wicks faced a crucial test, walking five Mariners in four innings, echoing the struggles of a former Cub pitcher named “Wild Thing”

Back in the days of 1989 and 1990, Cubs fans experienced the thrill and terror of watching Mitch Williams pitch. Known as "The Wild Thing," his outings were akin to a human roller coaster—intense, unpredictable, and always on the edge.

Fast forward to today, Wicks found himself in a classic Williams-esque jam: bases loaded, no outs. This type of high-pressure situation often spells doom for young pitchers, but Wicks navigated through it, albeit with some bumps—hitting a batter and eventually giving up a run in the second inning, and then three more in the fourth.

"Cubs superfans, brace yourselves—we have a roster of young, talented pitchers this season. Expect many more nerve-wracking yet development-rich innings as these young Cubs find their stride on the mound. I forecast that Wicks will settle in around his 10th to 12th start, likely in late May or June. Looking ahead? I predict a month of memorable performances from him in July.

Act Now or Forever Pay for AppleTV+

Remember to cancel your free Apple TV trial before charges apply, and give your feedback on this newsletter’s future!

Here’s a friendly nudge: check your Apple TV trial before those sneaky charges kick in! It's easy to get caught in the subscription snare—believe me, I've been there. While we're on the topic of subscriptions, what are your thoughts on this newsletter adopting a paid model? Your input is invaluable, and with just a couple of minutes in our survey, you can help steer this ship. Let’s ensure this remains your go-to Cubs update, tailored just for Superfans!

A Cubs’ Superstitious Dilemma

With Shota Imanaga pitching next game, let’s not jinx him by delving into his stats—baseball superstitions run deep!

Tomorrow, Shota Imanaga takes the mound, and here's where my superstitious side kicks in: no deep dive into his stats today. Why? Because in baseball, some beliefs are sacred and I’m afraid I will jinx him. Whether it's refraining from mentioning a no-hitter in progress or staying silent during a golfer's backswing, superstitions run rampant among sports enthusiasts. And who doesn’t get a kick out of a rally cap igniting a comeback? I can’t tempt fate. Instead, I’ll throw my full support behind Imanaga and hope for the best—leaving the stats out of my cheers.