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

With the National League Central race all but over, how will the Cubs respond?
27:10

What we’re hearing: How the Cubs are lined up for the stretch run
27:48

The Cubs are in trouble if they can’t fix this bullpen
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