Who was on the Bears' first injury report of the season? Plus the battle to replace Luke Lehnen at QB for national champion North Central.
Sports Friday, September 5, 2025 | | |
| | | | | Good morning, Chicago. Eight years ago, reliever Caleb Thielbar thought his professional baseball career was over. Coming off his second season playing in an independent league at 30, a pathway back to a major-league team’s affiliate — let alone returning to the majors — felt like a long shot. The left-hander figured his 2017 season would be his last. “At that point, I was willing to do basically anything to get back into an affiliate position,” Thielbar said. Now 38, Thielbar has become a valuable piece in the Chicago Cubs bullpen after signing a one-year, $2.75 million contract in December. Read more about Thielbar's journey from Meghan Montemurro. Sign up for Cubs Insider and White Sox Insider to stay up to date. You can also follow us on social media: X, Facebook, Threads, Bluesky and Instagram. Not a Tribune subscriber? Here's our latest offer. | | | | For evidence of growth by the Chicago Bears offense under Ben Johnson, look first at the rushing game. Brad Biggs answers your questions weekly. | | | | | Edgar Quero and Kyle Teel became the first Chicago White Sox rookies to record at least three hits apiece in the top two spots in the lineup. | | | | | Caleb Thielbar, 38, has become a valuable piece in the Chicago Cubs bullpen. The left-hander’s 1.99 ERA is the 11th-lowest among MLB relievers. | | | | | In a potential blow to the Chicago Bears defense for the season opener, linebacker T.J. Edwards was listed as a nonparticipant in Thursday’s estimated practice report. | | | | | The Chicago Bears showcased food offerings at Soldier Field in advance of Monday night’s season opener against the Minnesota Vikings. | | | | | Chicago White Sox infielder/outfielder Brooks Baldwin entered Thursday slashing .346/.414.519 in 17 games since Aug. 16. “He can do damage.” | | | |
