WATCH: Fergie Jenkins talks Cubs' strengths, pitching and defense

Tony Crumpton - Senior Editor - 1 day ago

Chicago Cubs Hall of Fame pitcher Fergie Jenkins spoke with Marquee Sports Network's Cole Wright, talking about his expectations for the Cubs in spring training, his reaction to Kyle Tucker, and more.

Watch the interview below:

Video summary/cliff-notes:

(00:00-00:29) Fergie Jenkins praises the Cubs’ facilities and the team’s physical readiness, expecting good results in upcoming games against the Dodgers and White Sox.

(00:29-00:57) Jenkins notes that modern players arrive at camp in peak condition, unlike in his era when contracts had to be signed before training.

(00:57-01:23) Discusses the impact of new acquisition Kyle Tucker, expecting him to play right field and hit plenty of home runs at Wrigley Field.

(01:23-01:51) Highlights the Cubs’ strong defense up the middle, with gold glove-caliber players Nico Hoerner, Dansby Swanson, and Pete Crow-Armstrong.

(01:51-02:19) Emphasizes the importance of double plays and ground-ball pitching at Wrigley Field to avoid home runs.

(02:19-02:50) Compares his early career under manager Leo Durocher to the Cubs’ second season under Craig Counsell, noting the importance of bullpen management.

(02:50-03:17) Believes the Cubs have a promising young pitching staff, similar to his own early career development, with several players ready to step up.

(03:17-03:49) Discusses how modern starters can go deeper into games by reducing pitch counts per inning, helping relieve bullpen stress.