Ringer Baseball

Our 2022 MLB Wish List

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 20:06:17 -0000

With the lockout in full effect, we look ahead to 2022 and make a list of things we hope the baseball season will deliver, on or off the field. Plus: Hall of Fame selection reactions.

Hosts: Michael Baumann and Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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The 2021 MLB Time Capsule

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 01:36:42 -0000

Just as we did at the end of 2020, we cap off the MLB calendar by building a time capsule of the most important physical items that represent the most memorable moments in baseball in 2021. From Sergio Romo’s belt to Steve Cohen’s phone, we spare no detail (1:00). Plus, we talk to Todd Isaacs Jr. about the upcoming home run derby in the Bahamas: Don’t Blink Home Run Derby in Paradise (1:07:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Todd Isaacs Jr.

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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The Seven Biggest MLB Lockout Questions, Answered

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 23:05:14 -0000

For the first time since 1995, there is a work stoppage in MLB. We answer your biggest questions: What is a lockout? Why have negotiations between the MLB and MLBPA failed to produce a new CBA before the Dec. 1 deadline? Will this lockout threaten the 2022 season? And more.

Hosts: Michael Baumann and Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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The MLB Free-Agent Market Just Exploded

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 03:37:37 -0000

Max Scherzer signed with the Mets. Corey Seager and Marcus Semien signed with the Rangers. Kevin Gausman signed with the Blue Jays. Robbie Ray signed with the Mariners. Our heads are spinning. We break down every major signing and trade in the last week and speculate on where the remaining free agents might end up.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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Aaron Loup on the Move, Justin Verlander Staying in Houston. Plus: Randy Wilkins on the Departure of Tyler Wade.

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 22:03:00 -0000

We discuss the posting process for Seiya Suzuki (8:00) and react to the Justin Verlander and Aaron Loup deals (19:00). Then, we’re joined by director Randy Wilkins to discuss the Yankees' decision to designate Tyler Wade for assignment (39:00). Lastly, we give our thoughts on the Hall of Fame (52:00) and bring back Good, Bad, Uggla.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Randy Wilkins

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Associate Producer: Mike Wargon

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Bryce Harper and Shohei Ohtani Win MVPs. Plus: Why Is Everyone So Mad About Corbin Burnes?

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 11:00:00 -0000

We run through a series of news items that have dropped in the last week, including the Mets—at long last—hiring a GM while letting Noah Syndergaard walk (1:00). Then, we discuss the MLB awards handed out this week, including MVP, Cy Young, Rookie of the Year, and more (35:00).

Host: Michael Baumann

Guest: Meg Rowley

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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Noah Syndergaard Is Leaving the Mets for Los Angeles. Plus: Tucker Davidson on Winning a World Series and Fast Buses.

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 19:27:38 -0000

We react to the news that Noah Syndergaard has signed a one-year, $21 million deal with the Los Angeles Angels, as well as the news that former Angels general manager Billy Eppler will be taking over as Mets GM (1:00). Then, we’re joined by Braves pitcher Tucker Davidson to discuss getting called up during the World Series, pitching in Game 5, the Atlanta celebration, and more (40:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Associate Producer: Mike Wargon

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Free Agent Matchmaker: What’s The Best Landing Spot for the 20 Best Free Agents?

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 11:00:00 -0000

We share our favorite destinations for the 20 best free agents in baseball, including Carlos Correa, Corey Seager, Trevor Story, Justin Verlander, Noah Syndergaard, Michael Conforto, Marcus Semien, and more.

Hosts: Michael Baumann and Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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The 15 Most Interesting Free Agents This Offseason

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 21:20:30 -0000

We discuss the end of the World Series (4:00), before running through a list of the most interesting players available in free agency this offseason (28:00). Then, we bid adieu to Buster Posey and share the things we’ll remember most about his career (1:23:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Associate Producer: Mike Wargon

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The Atlanta Braves Eliminated the Houston Astros to Win Their First World Series Since 1995

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 19:00:00 -0000

We react to the underdog Atlanta Braves eliminating Houston en route to their first World Series win since the 1990s. What ultimately sunk the Astros? Then we share October superlatives for all the other teams previously eliminated, before briefly previewing the ominous labor landscape this offseason.

Hosts: Michael Baumann and Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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Can the Astros Pull Off the Vaunted 3-1 Comeback?

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 17:41:15 -0000

The World Series has been a tale of two different Astros teams thus far: the explosive offensive team that won Game 5 in a landslide and the disjointed team that only managed two runs in games 3 and 4 combined. As the series heads back to Houston, can the Astros keep form or will the Braves complete their unlikely World Series run (1:00)? Plus: who will win the World Series MVP and why you should be watching the Dominican winter league (31:01).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Production Assistant: Mike Wargon

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Who Has the Edge in a Split World Series?

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 18:16:00 -0000

We discuss the first two games of the World Series, which is tied 1-1, and predict who will grab Game 3 and take the edge (1:00). Then, we recap a surprisingly eventful week of baseball news that included the Padres hiring Bob Melvin, the Cardinals hiring Oliver Marmol, and the Mets hiring…absolutely no one (30:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann and Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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The Six Biggest Things to Watch in the World Series. Plus: A World Series MVP Draft!

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 18:34:00 -0000

We sit down to discuss the six things that are top of mind as the Astros and Braves prepare for Game 1 (1:00). Will the Atlanta bullpen hold up against a deep Astros lineup? Will Houston’s offense be enough to overcome its thinning pitching depth? Then, we’re joined by Michael Baumann and Zach Kram of ‘The Ringer MLB Show’ to auction draft 12 different players who could win World Series MVP (31:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guests: Michael Baumann and Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Additional Production: Mike Wargon

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Game 6s Are Upon Us. Can Either the Dodgers or Red Sox Win Two Straight on the Road?

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 18:15:32 -0000

We react to a Chris Taylor–led Dodgers offensive outburst in Game 5 that will send the NLCS back to Atlanta (1:00). With their two best pitchers scheduled for games 6 and 7, respectively, can the Dodgers pull off another miracle 3-1 series comeback? We also discuss the ALCS, where the Red Sox will need to hit their way back into the series on the road in Houston (8:04).

Hosts: Michael Baumann and Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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Are the Red Sox the Team of Destiny? Plus: The Dodgers Are on the Ropes.

Tue, 19 Oct 2021 07:06:27 -0000

We react to a Red Sox drubbing of the Astros in Game 3 (1:00), and wonder whether Houston has enough pitching to slow down the streaking Boston offense. Then we recap the wire-to-wire games 1 and 2 of the NLCS, where Atlanta walked off Los Angeles twice (23:00). Finally, we discuss the news that MLB would provide housing for minor leaguers, Fernando Tatis Jr.‘s decision not to have shoulder surgery, and the Mets’ failure to hire any of their top GM candidates (42:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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The Dodgers Squeaked by the Giants. Has the Path Cleared for Them to Repeat?

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 18:59:00 -0000

We react to Game 5 between the Dodgers and Giants—one of the most tense elimination games in recent memory (1:00). Then, we preview the now-locked championship series between the Dodgers and Braves, and Red Sox and Astros (29:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann and Zach Kram

Guest: Ben Glicksman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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The Rays Are Going Home. Could the Dodgers Be Next?

Tue, 12 Oct 2021 07:01:00 -0000

We react to a shocking series of events that led to the Red Sox eliminating the Rays, who finished the season with the American League’s best record, in just four games (1:00). Then, we discuss a tense Game 3 between the Dodgers and Giants, who look to be as evenly matched a pair of teams as we’ve seen in the playoffs in quite some time (17:00). Finally, we wonder whether the White Sox have the firepower to flip the script on the Astros (23:00), and admit we underrated how much of a problem the Brewers' subpar offense would be come playoff time (32:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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The Dodgers Dispatched the Cardinals. Are They World Series Favorites?

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 18:56:10 -0000

We react to the defending-champion Los Angeles Dodgers advancing past the wild card (5:00), and preview every divisional series slated to start in the next two days (15:26). Plus, our full playoff and World Series predictions (33:30) and our reaction to Theo Epstein immediately turning down the Mets (49:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann and Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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'R2C2' Bonus: The Yankees Weren’t Good Enough. How Do They Change That?

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 06:32:00 -0000

This episode originally aired on 'R2C2 With CC Sabathia and Ryan Ruocco.' To hear more, follow 'R2C2' on Spotify.

We react to a disappointing wild-card performance by the Yankees and their ace, Gerrit Cole. Then we try to diagnose the problems facing New York as they assess their future roster and whether or not they can fix those problems without drastic changes.

Hosts: CC Sabathia and Ryan Ruocco

Producers: Bobby Wagner and Sadye Zillo

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Game 163 Fell Through, but We Had Fun Anyway. Plus: Wild-Card Previews and World Series Predictions.

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 19:54:50 -0000

We gather to discuss a tense final day of the regular season that ultimately ended anti-climactically (1:00). Then, we preview the AL wild card between the Yankees and Red Sox in Boston and the NL matchup in L.A. between the Dodgers and Cardinals (41:00). Before we go, we make World Series predictions (1:02:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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Who Will Be Left Without a Chair When the Playoff Race Music Stops?

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 18:26:00 -0000

This week, we dive deep on the six series that have consequences for the 2021 MLB playoff picture: Giants-Padres, Dodgers-Brewers, and, more importantly, Yankees-Rays, Red Sox–Nats, Blue Jays–Orioles, and Mariners-Angels. How will this playoff bracket shake out?

Hosts: Michael Baumann and Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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The Three Series That Will Decide the MLB Playoff Bracket

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 20:54:35 -0000

This week, we break down massive series between the Blue Jays and Yankees, Braves and Phillies, and Red Sox and Orioles (7:00), before discussing the potential that the Mariners could play spoiler in the AL wild-card race (15:00). Then, we run through the list of teams that are officially eliminated and share what we’ll remember most about them (34:00). Lastly, we do our final Good, Bad, Uggla of the season (1:03:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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The Mets and Padres Collapsed. We’re Not Mad, Just Disappointed.

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0000

This week, we discuss the conflagration between the Rays and Blue Jays over a dropped strategy card (1:00), before reviewing which teams we’re most disappointed in this season (10:00). Finally, we preview the best series of the weekend, including Red Sox–Yankees and Astros-A’s (45:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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The 2021 Padres: The Anatomy of a Team's Unraveling

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 19:58:17 -0000

This week, we discuss the semi-shocking reality that the St. Louis Cardinals will almost certainly grab the second spot in the NL wild-card race (2:00) before recounting just how terribly things have unfolded in San Diego (14:00). We also check in on the AL wild-card race, Sal Pérez’s incredible season, and the hopes and dreams for teams already eliminated (41:00). We finish this week with Good, Bad, Uggla and one final 2021 METSCON (51:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shuserman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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The Race for the NL West, Ohtani’s Impact, Plus a Look at This Weekend’s Picks

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 18:48:59 -0000

This week, we look into the race for the NL West and what the wild-card game represents for the team that doesn’t win the division (3:16) before discussing the final spot of the NL wild card (22:56). Then we highlight Shohei Ohtani’s inclusion in Time’s list of the 100 most influential people (34:41) and analyze Ryan Braun’s career after he announced his retirement (49:06).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Associate Producer: Stefan Anderson

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The Blue Jays Are on Fire, but Shohei Ohtani Is Still the MVP

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 20:33:09 -0000

This week, we discuss the Toronto Blue Jays taking over the top spot in the American League wild-card race (1:00) before reiterating our position that Shohei Ohtani has easily wrapped up the AL MVP award (15:00). Then we recap an electric Subway Series (23:00) before discussing the history of baseball and Yom Kippur (43:00). Finally, we close with the Good, the Bad, and the Uggla.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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The Blue Jays Have Thrown a Wrench in the AL Playoff Race. Plus: Michael Baumann Interviews Michael Baumann!

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 19:50:51 -0000

This week, we discuss how the Toronto Blue Jays have flipped the script on the AL wild-card race (0:30) before Mike is joined by Orioles rookie Michael Baumann to discuss his MLB debut (14:30). Then we discuss this year’s Hall of Fame class (30:00) and preview the weekend’s best series (50:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann (The Ringer), Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Michael Baumann (Baltimore Orioles)

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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Giants-Dodgers Recap, Playoff Dream Matchups, and Derek Jeter’s Hall of Fame Induction

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 00:01:21 -0000

We recap the weekend series between the Giants and Dodgers, the two NL West heavyweights with the best records in baseball (0:30), before laying out the playoff matchups that would lead to the most entertaining series (18:00). Then we discuss Derek Jeter’s ubiquity in our baseball lives (31:00) before closing with “Good, Bad, Uggla” (43:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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The 10 Things We Want to Happen in the Final Month of the Season

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 19:50:44 -0000

We discuss the recent report that MLB wants to change the six-year service time system to an age-based free agency system (9:00) before we run down a list of things we want to see happen in the final month of the regular season (19:00). Then, we preview Dodgers-Giants, a series with massive playoff seeding implications (53:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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Which Wild-Card Race Is the Hottest? Plus: The Meaning of the Mets' Thumbs-Down Revealed.

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 20:17:50 -0000

This week, we discuss the “controversy” surrounding the Mets' thumbs-down celebration and its previously hidden meaning (0:30) before recapping Sal Pérez’s phenomenal 2021 season (38:00). Then, we break down whether the American or National League wild-card race is better (24:00) before closing with Good, Bad, Uggla (54:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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The World Series Auction

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 19:43:02 -0000

On this week’s episode, we auction draft World Series contenders. How much will the Dodgers go for, even though they’re currently in position to have to play in the wild-card game? Do we believe in the Yankees’ hot streak? What teams on the fringes are worth a $1 bet?

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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Padres Panic Meter. Plus, Miguel Cabrera Joins the 500 Club!

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 20:38:21 -0000

Miguel Cabrera added another achievement to his decorated career this weekend. We discuss Miggy and debate which current players have the best chance to reach 500 home runs (0:30). Then, we discuss the Padres’ recent spiral and firing of their pitching coach (24:00) before reviving Why Haven’t You Homered Yet? and Good, Bad, Uggla (35:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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Who Would You Want on the Hill Most in a Wild-Card Game?

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 21:21:00 -0000

This week, we banter about Lance Lynn’s belt and Steve Cohen’s tweets (0:45), before drafting the starting pitchers we’d most want on the bump in a wild-card game (15:00). Then, we preview the weekend’s best matchups (53:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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Fernando Tatis Jr. Returns, Loudly. Plus: Who Will Throw the Next Perfect Game?

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 20:51:43 -0000

Fernando Tatis Jr. returned from injury to play right field for the Padres, a position he’s never played professionally. Will he succeed there (0:30)? Plus: who will throw MLB’s next perfect game (25:00), winning a bronze medal with José Gomez (36:00), and Good, Bad, Uggla (1:00:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: José Gomez

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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The Field of Dreams Game Went Better Than Even MLB Could’ve Hoped. Plus: The Mets and Red Sox Are in Free Fall

Fri, 13 Aug 2021 19:49:00 -0000

We discuss the two-man AL MVP race between Shohei Ohtani and Vlad Guerrero Jr. (0:30), before recapping the exciting finish to the White Sox-Yankees ‘Field of Dreams’ game in Iowa (9:00). Then, we discuss Chris Davis’s retirement and roller-coaster career (23:00), before analyzing the Red Sox and Mets’ recent swoons and how they've affected each team's respective playoff chances (31:00). We close this week with the Unnamed Weekend Preview segment (50:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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Who’s Going to Win MVP?

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 21:37:11 -0000

This week, we check in with the San Francisco Giants, who somehow still have the best record in baseball (0:30), before running down the list of awards and who is in pole position for each of them (38:00). Then, we revive METSCON (51:00), before closing with Good, Bad, Uggla (1:00:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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Mike Trout Completes 10 Years of MLB Service at Age 30. Plus, the 'Field of Dreams' Game Approaches and Max Scherzer Makes His Debut. | MLB Show

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0000

With Zach on vacation, Mike and Ben first affirm their support for the upcoming corniness of the 'Field of Dreams' game (0:30) and discuss Max Scherzer's debut for the Dodgers (10:00). Then we celebrate Mike Trout’s 30th birthday and 10 years of MLB service by talking about our favorite Mike Trout moments, his signature style, and his impact on the game (15:00). Finally we express our dismay at the structure of baseball at the Olympics (53:00) and preview Red Sox vs. Jays (55:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann and Ben Lindbergh

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

Editor: Mike Wargon

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Who Actually Has a Shot at Winning the World Series?

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 20:33:00 -0000

We size up the World Series contenders from each division in the aftermath of a very active trade deadline (1:00) and bid farewell to this recent era of the Cubs and Nationals (29:50). Plus, some Good, Bad, Uggla (45:09) and an update on Jake's bike trip (56:43).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Kaya McMullen

Editor: Mike Wargon

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The MLB Trade Deadline’s Biggest Stories

Sat, 31 Jul 2021 01:29:00 -0000

We react to all of the major stories coming out of a wild MLB trade deadline and how they might affect the rest of the season. We talk about Max Scherzer and Trea Turner heading to the Dodgers (7:00), the many trades made by the Cubs (16:05), Trevor Story being kept on the Rockies (47:43), and much more.

Hosts: Michael Bauman, Zach Kram, and Ben Lindbergh

Producer: Kaya McMullen

Editor: Mike Wargon

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Reckless Trade Deadline Speculation. Plus: Jake Is Halfway to Chicago!

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 20:02:45 -0000

We discuss the trades that have trickled in over the past few days, before discussing the biggest names on the trading block and where they should end up (4:00). Then, an all-access look at Jake’s bike trip to Chicago (29:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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Cleveland’s New Team Name, Nelson Cruz to the Rays, and Previewing the Weekend’s Action

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 20:23:30 -0000

We react to the breaking news that Cleveland will change its name to the Guardians, beginning next season (1:00). Then, we assess what the Rays’ acquisition of Nelson Cruz means for the AL East race (15:00) before inviting Rodger Sherman on to discuss Olympic baseball and softball (28:00). Finally, we preview White Sox–Brewers, a series loaded with great pitching matchups (52:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Rodger Sherman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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Bold Predictions for the Second Half of the MLB Season

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 20:36:50 -0000

It’s time to get spicy. Will the Phillies win the division? Can the Blue Jays go on a streak when they return to their major league ballpark? Will Jacob deGrom actually lose out on the Cy Young? Plus, we make other hot second-half predictions (1:00) and play matchmaker for some of the stars on the trading block this July (27:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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How Hot Is This Trade Deadline Going to Be?

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 19:57:16 -0000

We react to a very enjoyable All-Star break (1:00), before discussing the latest reports about the teams that have still not reached the 85 percent vaccination cutoff marker (21:00). Finally, we react to the Joc Pederson trade, and assess which teams are most likely to bring fireworks to the trade deadline (34:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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All Hail Pete Alonso, Home Run Derby King. Plus: Draft Reactions and All-Star Game Preview.

Tue, 13 Jul 2021 20:44:32 -0000

Pete Alonso stole the show in the Home Run Derby. Will he become the greatest participant the event has ever seen? Plus: reactions to seeing Shohei Ohtani in person, previewing the All-Star Game, and breaking down the highlights from the top rounds of the MLB draft.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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The 2011 MLB Redraft

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 17:56:13 -0000

Ten years later, we look back on maybe the greatest draft in baseball history—a draft loaded with All-Stars and what-ifs. We discuss what makes 2011 so special, before Mike, Ben, and Zach redraft the entire first round to create their own teams.

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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How the Dodgers Mishandled the Trevor Bauer Situation. Plus: The Cubs and Yankees Can’t Catch a Break.

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 00:55:12 -0000

Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman talk about the recent reports about Trevor Bauer and how the Dodgers organization has handled the case (0:40). Then, the duo discuss the recent struggles of the Yankees and Cubs (8:00) before listing off their picks of the most boring players in the MLB (27:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Associate Producer: Lani Renaldo

Editor: Mike Wargon

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The MLB Midseason Awards Show

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 21:01:41 -0000

Ben and Zach open this week discussing the disturbing news that a woman has told police that Trevor Bauer assaulted her and MLB’s decision to put Bauer on seven-day administrative leave (1:21). Then Ben talks about the experience of watching Shohei Ohtani play in person (7:49) and they give out their midseason awards (16:07).

Hosts: Ben Lindbergh and Zach Kram

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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How High Can Shohei Ohtani Raise the Bar? Plus: Yankees Panic Meter Returns.

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 22:16:24 -0000

Shohei Ohtani keeps hitting home runs, and the collective baseball world doesn’t know what to do about it. How legitimate are the hot streaks of Ohtani, Kyle Schwarber, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (0:30)? Plus: The Yankees are in another swoon. Is this a playoff team, or do they need to make serious changes (14:00)?

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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The Cubs’ Anticlimactic No-no, Wander Franco’s Impressive Debut, and Our Ideal Home Run Derby Rosters

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 20:35:00 -0000

We open this week discussing the Cubs’ combined no-hitter of the Dodgers (0:30) before gushing about the top prospect in baseball, Wander Franco (10:00). Then we talk ideal home run derby rosters and preview the best series of the weekend (43:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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Top Five Trade Candidates. Plus: It’s Wander Franco SZN.

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 21:45:20 -0000

The best prospect in the world, who many believe is one of the best prospects in baseball history, is making his MLB debut tonight. We break down why there’s so much hype about Rays shortstop Wander Franco (8:15). Plus, a recap of a rowdy weekend in San Diego (31:00), the top five trade candidates (41:00), and Good, Bad, Uggla (47:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Kiley McDaniel

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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Bay Area Magic: How Good Are the A’s and Giants?

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0000

We discuss the major points of MLB’s memo on sticky stuff and how the real referendum for pitchers is coming on June 21, when MLB will start enforcing the rules (10:15). Then, we discuss the Athletics and Giants, two teams that are overperforming expectations so much that we’ve started to wonder if they’re both going to win their divisions (34:00). Finally, we preview the best series of the weekend (52:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, and Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Is the Best Hitter on the Planet

Tue, 15 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0000

This week, we discuss MLB’s continued crackdown on ball doctoring before reviewing the MLB All-Star vote leaders (0:30). In Good, Bad, Uggla, we talk the Diamondbacks' new uniforms and some bizarre pitcher usage in the College World Series (37:47).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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Can Jacob deGrom Break Bob Gibson’s Single-Season ERA Record?

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 19:50:54 -0000

We discuss the United States baseball team qualifying for the Olympics, and the men’s and women’s College World Series (0:45), before revisiting the foreign substances controversy surrounding pitchers in MLB (22:00). Then, we close by previewing Jacob deGrom’s matchup vs. fellow Cy Young winner Blake Snell, and talk about deGrom’s chances to break the single-season ERA record set by Bob Gibson in 1968 (46:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Producers: Bobby Wagner and Mike Wargon

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It’s Finally Time to Talk About Sticky Stuff

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 20:59:00 -0000

This week, we finally give in to the news and talk about the burgeoning foreign substance controversy MLB is facing (0:45). Then, we give some constructive criticism on 'The Ringer MLB Show’ 25 Under 25 list (38:00) before this week’s Good, Bad, Uggla (45:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producers: Bobby Wagner

Editor: Mike Wargon

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The 25 Best Players Under 25 Years Old

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 17:54:20 -0000

This week, we take a break from current events to talk about MLB’s 25 best players under 25 years old. The rules are simple: You have to have appeared in at least one MLB game, and you cannot have turned 25. Will Fernando Tatis Jr. take the top spot, or will one of the NL East’s superstar outfielders edge him? Plus: What is the state of the starting pitcher when it comes to baseball superstardom?

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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We Think the Cubs Are Good, But Don’t Make Us Swear on It

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 19:54:42 -0000

This week, we discuss the surging Cubs and Rays (0:30) before reviewing another week in Fernando Tatis Jr. blowing our minds (15:00). Then, we name the five players most likely to get moved before the deadline and talk college walkoffs in ‘Good, Bad, Uggla’ (38:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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Injuries Are Defining the 2021 MLB Season

Fri, 28 May 2021 20:22:52 -0000

We discuss the Javier Baez baserunning magic that lit baseball Twitter on fire Thursday (1:00), before trying to make sense of the droves of injuries that have many contenders looking depleted heading into June (16:30). Finally, we preview the weekend’s best series and pitching matchups (37:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, and Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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Going Streaking: The Hottest and Coldest Teams in Baseball Right Now

Tue, 25 May 2021 18:47:00 -0000

We review the longest active winning and losing streaks in baseball, including the Yankees, Rays, Padres, Orioles, and more (0:20). Then, we preview the upcoming college baseball tournaments (34:30), before getting into Good, Bad, Uggla and METSCON (42:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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Have No-Hitters Lost Their Appeal?

Fri, 21 May 2021 18:27:26 -0000

We discuss the Tony La Russa–Yermin Mercedes controversy and what it might mean for the rest of the White Sox’s season (0:30) before reviewing two more no-hitters that happened since we talked last. Then, we preview the biggest series of the weekend, including Rays-Jays and White Sox–Yankees (47:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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Pujols's Dodgers Debut, the Twins' Struggles, and the Best Hitter in Baseball

Tue, 18 May 2021 21:38:00 -0000

Jake and Jordan start by discussing Albert Pujols's debut for the L.A. Dodgers (1:40). Then they discuss the struggling Twins (23:26) and who the best hitter in baseball is (29:40). After that, they close with Why Haven’t You Homered Yet (37:05); the Good, the Bad, and the Uggla (48:34); and a check-in on the countdown to the 20,000th MLB player (1:10:50).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Production Assistant: Isaiah Blakely

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Jarred Kelenic and Logan Gilbert Debut for the Mariners

Fri, 14 May 2021 20:33:42 -0000

To open the show, we debate whether the plethora of no-hitters and near-no-hitters this season is a bad thing for the league (02:00). Then, we discuss Jarred Kelenic's and Logan Gilbert's debuts for the Mariners and look back on the famous trade that brought Kelenic to Seattle (11:20). Later, we get into the A’s threatening to relocate from Oakland (38:40). Finally, things come to a close after we talk about writing off the Twins and trends we would like to highlight before they fall victim to the Ringer curse (56:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, and Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

Production Assistant: Jonathan Kermah

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The Dodgers’ Tailspin, John Means’s No-No, and Ratcoon Gate

Tue, 11 May 2021 21:41:06 -0000

We open this show by comforting Dodgers fans about the recent struggles of the team before discussing the John Means and Wade Miley no-hitters. Then we investigate the rat-raccoon debate that broke out in the Mets' postgame press conferences before getting into Three Up, Three Down for the week.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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How Will We Remember Albert Pujols’s Career?

Fri, 07 May 2021 10:00:00 -0000

This week, we discuss the surprising news that the Angels have designated Albert Pujols for assignment and ended his tenure in Anaheim (0:18). Then we talk about John Means’s near-perfect game and remember some of the most painful near-perfect games in MLB history (33:30). Finally, we preview some of the most exciting series of this weekend, including the Freeway Series between the Angels and Dodgers (51:45).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, and Zach Kram

Proudcer: Bobby Wagner

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A Check-in With Every Division. Plus: Minor League Baseball Is Finally Back!

Tue, 04 May 2021 21:08:00 -0000

We discuss the long-awaited return of minor league baseball (0:00) before taking a temperature check of all six divisions in MLB. In this week's Good, Bad, Uggla, we talk the Mets firing their hitting coach and a bizarre end to a Division III team’s season.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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Pitchers Are Lapping Hitters. It's Time to Do Something.

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 19:58:00 -0000

We open this week’s show by talking about a bizarre and indefensible call by Marty Foster (1:30). Then, we discuss the continued trend of pitcher dominance and whether it's time for MLB to do something about it (11:00). Finally, we preview the best series of the weekend, including Mets-Phillies and Royals-Twins.

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Producers: Bobby Wagner

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Dodgers-Padres Round 2 Did Not Disappoint

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0000

We react to Jeff Bridich stepping down as Rockies GM (0:12), before updating our list of the five most important players in the Dodgers-Padres rivalry. Then, we marvel at Jacob deGrom’s unprecedented dominance and close the podcast with Good, Bad, Uggla and “Why Haven’t You Homered Yet?” (45:34)

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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Real or Not Real: The Yankees' Struggles, the A’s Win Streak, and the Royals Atop the Central

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 19:53:31 -0000

We discuss how much credence to put in various early-season story lines like the Yankees' and Twins' struggles, the A’s winning 11 games in a row, and the Royals leading the AL Central. Then, we discuss yet another Dodgers-Padres series that will capture the baseball world’s attention this weekend.

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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Press the Panic Button, Yankees Fans (Everyone Else, Enjoy)

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 22:37:49 -0000

We break down how the Yankees find themselves at the bottom of the American League, what they need to do to get back on track, and whether the Red Sox are a legitimate contender for the AL East (0:40). Then we rank the five most important characters in the burgeoning Dodgers-Padres rivalry. Finally, in Good, Bad, Uggla, we talk all things Royals before breaking down the bizarre David Price sacrifice fly (27:39).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Producer: Bobby Wagner

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Looking for the Next Shane Bieber, Carlos Rodón’s No-Hitter, and Padres-Dodgers Preview

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 19:49:00 -0000

Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, and Zach Kram start by discussing the report from The Athletic detailing a culture of sexual harassment in the New York Mets organization (4:56). Then they have a conversation about a piece Michael wrote about the pursuit of the next Shane Bieber (14:09). After that they discuss potential rule changes (26:26) and Carlos Rodón’s no-hitter(36:30). Lastly, they preview the upcoming series between the San Diego Padres and the Los Angeles Dodgers (45:20).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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Ronald Acuña Jr. Is As Much the Face of Baseball As Anyone

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 22:39:40 -0000

We discuss Joe Musgrove tossing the first no-hitter in Padres history and Ronald Acuña Jr.’s blazing-hot start to the 2021 season (0:30), before being joined by Rays pitcher Brent Honeywell Jr. to talk about his MLB debut against the Yankees (24:30). Plus: This week’s Good, Bad, Uggla features the Texas Rangers' dismal offense and Jedd Gyorko’s new managerial career (37:39).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Brent Honeywell Jr.

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Will (or Should) Trevor Bauer Be Suspended?

Fri, 09 Apr 2021 18:26:07 -0000

We open the show by discussing The Athletic’s report that MLB removed multiple Trevor Bauer–pitched baseballs from play to inspect them for illegal foreign substances (0:15). Then, we discuss the Michael Conforto walk-off hit by pitch that shouldn’t have been ruled a hit by pitch, injuries to Fernando Tatis Jr. and Trevor Rosenthal, and the slow start for the A's (25:15). Finally, we preview the weekend series between the Braves and Phillies, Yankees and Rays, and Dodgers and Nationals (49:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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Opening Weekend Reactions: All Hail the Shohei Ohtani Experience

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 20:14:00 -0000

We recap a packed opening weekend of baseball, including the historic pitching and hitting performance of Angels star Shohei Ohtani (0:30). Plus: The Good, the Bad, and the Uggla makes its return, featuring some abominable A’s starting pitching, the Coors cat, and more (28:47).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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MLB Opening Day Reactions. Plus: The Five Most Exciting Baseball Story Lines in 2021.

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 20:10:00 -0000

We react to the (almost) full slate of baseball games yesterday, as well as the Francisco Lindor mega-extension, before sharing the stories we’re most looking forward to this year: the Padres becoming heroes, the Dodgers becoming villains, Shohei Ohtani finally staying healthy, and more.

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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Introducing ‘Ringer Baseball’

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 04:00:00 -0000

The Ringer baseball crew brings you the analysis, humor, player breakdowns, and instant reactions you need for the MLB season. TUES: ‘Baseball BBQ’ with Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman. FRI: ‘The Ringer MLB Show’ with Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, and Zach Kram.

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The 10 Biggest Questions Heading Into the 2021 MLB Season

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 19:54:19 -0000

Will Padres-Dodgers live up to the hype? Are any pitchers going to be suspended for foreign substances? Will the Yankees' injuries keep them from making it to the World Series again? We answer MLB’s biggest questions heading into Opening Day 2021.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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Your 2021 NL Preview: It’s Time to Decide. Dodgers or Padres?

Thu, 25 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0000

The Dodgers have ruled the NL West for a baseball eternity. Can the Padres finally take that crown? Plus: Is there any path for the Phillies to make the playoffs? Are the Mets or the Braves the NL East favorite? Can we find a pulse on any of the NL Central teams outside St. Louis? All that and more in the second installment of our season preview.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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Your 2021 AL Preview: Can Anyone Challenge the Yankees?

Tue, 23 Mar 2021 19:02:44 -0000

We rank all 15 teams in the American League and answer the biggest lingering questions heading into the season. Are the Yankees going to bulldoze their way to the World Series? Who has the edge in the AL Central? Will the Astros still get booed at every road game?

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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The Biggest Weaknesses of the League’s Best Teams

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 20:41:00 -0000

We identify the biggest weaknesses of the best teams in the league, and prescribe our favorite solutions to fix them (48:05). Plus: a deeper-than-you-ever-asked-for analysis of Luis Guillorme’s incredible 22-pitch walk featuring a surprise guest appearance, reactions to the minor league rule changes, and more (0:17).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Mike Petriello

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The 26 People Who Will Define the 2021 MLB Season

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 21:23:47 -0000

As the season creeps closer, we zoom out on the baseball landscape: Who are the most important people in 2021? Whether the answers are superstars like Mike Trout or guys with something to prove like Javy Báez, we’ve got it all covered.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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10 Overreactions to the First Two Days of Spring Training

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 11:00:00 -0000

Baseball is back … sort of. We discuss the beginning of spring training and the quirks of seven-inning exhibitions before relaying our 10 biggest overreactions to the first two days of live games (0:18). Then, we create an all free-agent team from the players who remain unsigned (24:35) before playing a little game of “Would You Rather?” about the Francisco Lindor extension.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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The Origins of ‘Backyard Baseball.’ Plus: Best Shape of His Life SZN Is Here.

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 21:09:02 -0000

To celebrate video game week on the site, we’re joined by ‘Backyard Baseball’ creator Nick Mirkovich to discuss how the game got started, the quirks that made it such a megahit, and its enduring legacy (31:52). Before talking to Nick, we speed-round all the news coming out of spring training: Mariners CEO Kevin Mather’s resignation, the myriad of players showing up in “the best shape of their lives,” Yoenis Céspedes speculation, Albert Pujols’s potential final season, and more (1:30).

Read Zach Kram’s ‘Backyard Baseball’ piece here.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Nick Mirkovich

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The Dodgers and Justin Turner Reunite. Plus: Your Guide to 2021 College Baseball.

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 21:27:57 -0000

After being cut short by the pandemic in 2020, college baseball is returning this weekend. If you don’t currently watch, we’re making the case for why you should (32:30). Before that, we discuss Justin Turner reuniting with the Dodgers (1:48) and draft a starting rotation of the pitchers who have signed one-year deals this offseason (21:01).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Kyle Peterson

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The MLB Offseason Power Rankings

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 21:04:55 -0000

The Padres, Cardinals, and Mets made big splashes on the trade market, while the Blue Jays hit home runs in free agency. The Rockies did … well, we don’t really know, and the Pirates acquired some important prospects while they rebuild. We rank the offseasons of all 30 teams, from those that improved the least to those that improved the most.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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The Nolan Arenado Trade Is a Statement of Rockies Dysfunction. Plus: Dustin Pedroia’s Retirement.

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 21:59:19 -0000

We open this week by discussing The Athletic’s report that Angels pitching coach Mickey Callaway sexually harassed multiple female reporters during his time in Cleveland, New York, and Los Angeles (1:08). Then, we discuss the Nolan Arenado trade from every angle: how good Arenado is, whether this makes St. Louis a serious contender, and what exactly the Rockies are doing (21:30). Finally, we wave goodbye to Dustin Pedroia’s career by inviting Joon Lee, a Red Sox fan, and Randy Wilkins, a Yankees fan, to discuss what Pedroia’s lasting legacy will be (55:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guests: Nick Groke, Joon Lee, Randy Wilkins

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Hank Aaron’s Life and Legacy

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 23:42:25 -0000

We discuss the breaking news that JT Realmuto will re-sign with the Philadelphia Phillies for 5 years, $115 million (1:07), as well as the Jameson Taillon and Adam Ottavino trades (6:00), before bringing on ESPN’s Clinton Yates to discuss the titanic life of the great Henry Aaron, who passed away at age 86 last week (25:30).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Clinton Yates

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The Padres Won’t Stop Trading for Pitchers. Plus: The Yankees Finally Bring Back DJ LeMahieu.

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 23:19:25 -0000

We discuss the news that the Mets fired GM Jared Porter after an ESPN report detailed his harassment of a female reporter during his time with the Cubs in 2016 (1:28). Then, we recap a busy week in baseball transactions: Pirates pitcher Joe Musgrove joined a growing cadre of talented starting pitchers in San Diego, DJ LeMahieu finally got inked to come back to the Yankees, and the Bronx Bombers took a flyer on former Cy Young winner Corey Kluber (6:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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Liam Hendriks Is the Latest Win-Now Move for the White Sox. Plus: METSCON Lindor Edition.

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 20:10:00 -0000

We reach into our bag to grab the latest news from around the league since we last spoke: Liam Hendriks to the White Sox, how much Yu Darvish helps the Padres, Tomoyuki Sugano staying in Japan, and Rusney Castillo leaving the States (1:25). Then, we dive deep into the emotions of producer and Mets superfan Bobby Wagner, who takes us through what it felt like to find out the Mets traded for Francisco Lindor (38:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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Instant Reactions to Francisco Lindor Being Traded to the Mets

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 20:41:39 -0000

The Mets have landed Francisco Lindor and Carlos Carrasco in a blockbuster trade with Cleveland. Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman discuss their immediate thoughts on the deal, as well as what it means for both teams and for Lindor moving forward.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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What Is the Greatest Pitch of All Time? A Baseball BBQ Investigation.

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 11:00:00 -0000

Mariano Rivera’s cutter, Walter Johnson’s fastball, Bob Gibson’s slider, Pedro Martínez’s [insert pitch here]—everything is on the table. We’re breaking form this week to bring you a special ‘Baseball BBQ’ investigation into one of the game’s most unanswerable questions. Strap in!

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guests: Nick Swisher, Lucas Giolito, Rob Friedman, Brent Honeywell, Kinza Baad, Trevor Plouffe, Ryan Spilborghs, Ethan Katz, Eno Sarris, Bob Kendrick, Clinton Yates, and Sarah Langs

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What the Blake Snell Trade Means for the Padres, the Rays, and the Future

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 18:23:12 -0000

The Tampa Bay Rays have traded away another star, this time in the form of former Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell. We tell you everything you need to know, from what this means for the Padres, who the Rays got back, Snell’s fit in San Diego, and what it says that the defending American League Champion just traded away their best pitcher.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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Bob Kendrick on MLB’s Official Recognition of the Negro Leagues. Plus: The Free Agents You Already Forgot About.

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 18:43:19 -0000

George Springer, Trevor Bauer, and DJ LeMahieu are on the top of everyone’s minds as the baseball offseason continues. But what about Andrelton Simmons, Joc Pederson, Didi Gregorius, and other more-forgotten free agents (30:00)? Plus, we talk to the inimitable Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, about the news that MLB would be formally recognizing the statistics of the seven leagues collectively known as the Negro Leagues (10:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Bob Kendrick

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Cleveland Drops Its Name (Kind Of). Plus: Reliving the Drake LaRoche Saga of 2016.

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 19:14:23 -0000

James McCann is signing with the Mets, Dave Dombrowski will helm the Phillies, Lance Lynn is headed to Chicago, and, of course, Cleveland announced that it plans to change its team name (in the near future). We recap the week in baseball news (1:45), including the White Sox re-signing Adam Eaton, which leads us down a rabbit hole with Dan Hayes of The Athletic, who reported on the mysterious and downright bizarre Drake LaRoche controversy the last time Eaton donned a White Sox uniform (43:52).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Dan Hayes and Michael Baumann

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Live From Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia … It’s Baseball BBQ!

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 11:00:00 -0000

In the first “in-person” podcast recorded in 'Baseball BBQ' history, we meet up in an empty parking lot outside Citizens Bank Park, home of the Philadelphia Phillies, to discuss a potential Zack Wheeler trade, the canceled winter meetings, and the joys of seeing a baseball game in person with your buddies (0:09). Then, KBO MVP Mel Rojas Jr. joins to discuss his stunning season, getting into a groove at the plate, the differences in playing in South Korea as opposed to the U.S. or the Dominican Republic, where he wants to play next year, and more (27:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Mel Rojas Jr.

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Who Would Win If Real Umpires Fought Robot Umpires? And Other Essential Offseason Mailbag Questions

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 11:00:00 -0000

We recap the slim pickings of news in the last week (1:45) before opening up the offseason mailbag to answer your questions about baseball in the Olympics, robot umps vs. human umps, and more (14:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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It’s the Most Wonderfully Boring Time of the Year

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 11:00:00 -0000

It’s the doldrums of the offseason, where we refresh Twitter and hope for some breaking news. This week, we discuss Robinson Canó’s suspension and Theo Epstein’s resignation (2:00). Then, New York Daily News Mets beat reporter Deesha Thosar joins to make sense of Canó’s suspension and the “reply guy” nature of new Mets owner Steve Cohen (21:23). We’re also joined by the Josė Gomez, GM of Leones del Escogido in the Dominican Winter League, to discuss what it’s like to run a LIDOM team in a pandemic (35:00). Finally, we quickly draft the most boring people, places, things, and situations in the baseball world (48:20).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guests: Deesha Thosar and José Gomez

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The 12 Biggest Stories to Monitor This Offseason

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 14:00:00 -0000

We are officially in the offseason, so to prepare you, we loaded a 'Price Is Right'–style spinning wheel with the 12 biggest story lines we think will dominate the next two months—from minor league baseball shrinking, to free agents, to potential blockbuster trades, we have you covered.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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The Baseball BBQ Superlative Awards

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 11:00:00 -0000

Major League Baseball has handed out the Gold Glove, Silver Slugger, and Manager of the Year awards. We predict who will win the Cy Young and MVP awards in each league (3:30), before fashioning our own set of awards to hand out (17:02). Which player who we thought sucked is actually good? Which team was the most incompetent? Who did we think about least?

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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Let’s Build MLB’s 2020 Time Capsule

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 11:00:00 -0000

Join us on a wild ride as we pick 25 items to place into an imaginary time capsule of the weirdest baseball season of our lives—from wet rags, to mattresses, to Clayton Kershaw’s hat. You won’t want to miss this one.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Lucas Giolito

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What Does the Tony La Russa Hire Really Mean? Plus: Rhea Butcher’s Dodgers Victory Lap and Frankenstein Draft Review.

Tue, 03 Nov 2020 00:44:36 -0000

We go further in depth on what Tony La Russa's hiring will actually mean on and off the field for the 2021 Chicago White Sox, including how he even got hired in the first place (1:06). Then, comedian and ‘Three Swings’ host Rhea Butcher joins to rehash their guarantee (on Baseball BBQ) that the Dodgers would win the World Series (25:15). Finally, Sarah Langs of MLB.com and Stephen Nelson of MLB Network return to the pod to review the Frankenstein teams they drafted on the podcast before the playoffs started (55:30), and we close with the first METSCON of the Steve Cohen era (1:27:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guests: Rhea Butcher, Stephen Nelson, and Sarah Langs

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The White Sox Hired Tony La Russa, So Jake Is Walking to Chicago. Oh, and The Dodgers Won the World Series.

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 21:10:50 -0000

We are joined by The Athletic’s Levi Weaver to discuss the energy at Globe Life Field during the World Series, the profoundly bizarre experience of hearing that Justin Turner tested positive for COVID and then went onto the field to celebrate anyway, and what his most lasting memories of covering baseball in 2020 will be (1:32). Then, we give the Dodgers credit for building, wire-to-wire, the best team in baseball, and send off the 2020 Rays—an impressively constructed team that was overmatched in the end (30:22). Finally, the news you’ve all been waiting for: Tony La Russa is the new manager of the Chicago White Sox. Will Jake fulfill his promise of “walking from [his] apartment to Guaranteed Rate Field if the White Sox hire Tony La Russa” (1:03:46)?

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Levi Weaver

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Clayton Kershaw and the Dodgers Bounce Back to Win Game 5 After a Historically Bizarre Game 4 Loss

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 18:22:07 -0000

The Rays evened the World Series in Game 4 after a bizarre set of mistakes by the Dodgers allowed Randy Arozarena to score the winning run in the bottom of the ninth inning. But the Dodgers bounced back Sunday night on the back of a strong Clayton Kershaw start and some clutch relief pitching to take a 3-2 series lead. Will they close it out in Game 6, or are we going to see a World Series Game 7 for the second straight year?

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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Blake Snell and Brandon Lowe Help the Rays Even the World Series. Plus: How Buehler vs. Morton in Game 3 Will Shape the Rest of the Series.

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 19:35:10 -0000

We react to a choppy Game 2 that featured seven Dodgers pitchers, a strong but short outing from Blake Snell, and a semi-revival of the Rays’ bats. Then, we preview games 3 and 4 before sharing our Fave Five things of the series thus far.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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The Dodgers Meet the Rays in the World Series: Five Players to Watch and Our Series Predictions

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 20:16:53 -0000

We recap a thrilling Game 7 of the NLCS between the Dodgers and the Braves that featured incredibly clutch home runs from Cody Bellinger and Kike Hernández (1:51) and a surprising Game 7 between the Astros and Rays in which the Rays held on to avoid blowing a 3-0 series lead. Then, we share our five favorite players and predict who will win the World Series, how many games it’ll take, and who will take home the World Series MVP trophy (24:40).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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The Dodgers Rout Their Way Back Into the Series. Plus: Houston Hangs on to Avoid a Sweep.

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 07:05:38 -0000

We break down the 11-run inning that powered the Dodgers in Game 3, flipping the script in a series that had been surprisingly dominated by the Braves up to that point (0:00). Then, we discuss the saga that was Walker Buehler’s pants (1:21), before discussing how even with a loss in Game 4, the Rays have set themselves up nicely to close out the Astros in the coming days (20:33). Finally, we diagnose what it would mean for the White Sox—one of the most exciting young teams in baseball—to hire Tony La Russa, AJ Hinch, or Alex Cora (30:37).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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Instant Reactions to Rays-Astros Game 1. Plus: Dodgers-Braves NLCS Preview.

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 10:00:00 -0000

The Rays hung on to beat the Astros 2-1 in Game 1 of the ALCS on the back of a gritty pitching performance from Blake Snell and another Randy Arozarena home run. We recap that game as well as preview the rest of this fascinating series, before also previewing Game 1 of the NLCS between the Dodgers and the Braves. Will the Dodgers keep rolling along or will the stacked Braves lineup and surprisingly impressive postseason pitching give Los Angeles trouble?

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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Cody Bellinger Robs Fernando Tatis Jr. to Help Put the Dodgers Up 2-0. Plus: A Breakdown of Every Divisional Series Thus Far.

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 17:57:09 -0000

After a stress-filled Game 2 between the Dodgers and Padres, we convene to give our immediate reactions to that series, as well as the Yankees-Rays series that's tilted toward Tampa Bay, the Braves-Marlins series that's headed toward a sweep, and the A’s-Astros series that’s about to play its crucial Game 4. Plus: We take a victory lap on predicting the pitcher-friendly Globe Life Field would be the talk of the postseason, as well as predicting a big breakout for Rays outfielder Randy Arozarena.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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Everything You Need to Be Excited for in the AL and NL Divisional Series

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 10:00:00 -0000

We preview every series in both leagues and break down what you need to know, what you need to get excited for, and which players (outside the obvious) you should expect to show up big (1:03). Then, ESPN broadcaster Boog Sciambi joins to preview Marlins-Braves, describe what it’s like to call a fanless playoff game that you’re not even in the ballpark for, and discuss the nearly unbelievable arc of Fernando Tatis Jr. (33:26)

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Boog Sciambi

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We Watched 14 Straight Hours of Playoff Baseball and Then Recorded a Podcast

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 14:35:06 -0000

The Yankees swept Cleveland. The Astros made an ever deeper heel turn. The Dodgers, if unconvincing, did their job by beating the Brewers. The Braves needed 13 innings just to put up one run against the Reds. Everything is happening all at once! We recap one of the most hectic, stressful, and entertaining baseball days of this century by going series by series and sharing our biggest takeaways, surprises, and emerging story lines.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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Your Team Is Going to Win the World Series. Here’s Why.

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0000

We bring on 16 guests—one for each team in the postseason—to tell you why that team could win this year’s World Series. From the favorites like the Dodgers and the Rays, to the long shots like the Brewers and the Marlins, the field is wide open this year. Plus: a bonus intermission with Cleveland postseason hero Rajai Davis!

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guests: Randy Wilkins, Demetrius Bell, Andrew Stoeten, Ian Happ, Alex Coffey, Andre Knott, Rajai Davis, Tyler Stafford, Will Leitch, Brace Hemmelgarn, Juan Toribio, Danny Graves, Jason Benetti, Jorge Arangure, Rhea Butcher, Tom Koehler, Adam McCalvy

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Did This Baseball Season Make Any Sense at All?

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 20:52:18 -0000

We discuss the playoff picture as it rounds into its final form for the season (1:27), before inviting FanGraphs managing editor Meg Rowley on to rate the efficacy of some of the wonky rule changes and circumstantial differences caused by the pandemic this season (14:12). We close this week with the final METSCON of the season and our Moment of Baseball Joy (58:15).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Meg Rowley

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Drafting Frankenstein Playoff Teams With Sarah Langs and Stephen Nelson

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 21:45:01 -0000

We give our fave five things to watch down the stretch run of the baseball season, including tight NL Cy Young and AL MVP races (1:31). Then, we invite MLB Network’s Stephen Nelson and MLB.com's Sarah Langs to draft a Frankenstein MLB playoff team—each person builds the best team possible by picking a lineup, a starting pitching rotation, a bullpen, a manager, and a team “vibe” from the remaining teams in the playoff hunt (17:46).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guests: Sarah Langs and Stephen Nelson

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The Playoff Bubble and the Yankees' Resurgence. Plus: Kumar Rocker!

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 20:13:14 -0000

The playoff picture is starting to come into focus. We revisit some of our previous playoff conversations to discuss where the Yankees stand, who will grab the final NL wild card spots, and how the playoff bubble plan will affect those teams once they get there (1:11). Then, we are joined by Vanderbilt ace and top college pitching prospect Kumar Rocker to discuss choosing Vanderbilt, his legendary no-hitter in the College World Series, what he admires about the game of baseball as it stands today, and more (26:19). Finally, we close with the Good, the Bad, and the Uggla and this week’s moment of baseball joy (48:58).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Kumar Rocker

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The White Sox Have Arrived

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 21:22:30 -0000

We speed round Alec Mills’s no-hitter, Albert Pujols passing Willie Mays on the home run leaderboard, and Matt Chapman going down with an injury (0:47). Then we bring on White Sox announcer Jason Benetti to talk about the top seed in the American League and their bevy of young stars (20:02). We finish with a (Not) Sorry for Your Mentions and this week’s Moment of Baseball Joy (44:44).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Jason Benetti

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Braves-Marlins 29-9 Madness! Plus: Are the Wheels Officially Off for the Yankees?

Thu, 10 Sep 2020 19:18:22 -0000

We get into the nitty-gritty of a bizarre baseball night that included a 29-9 shellacking of the Marlins by the Braves and the Brewers beating the Tigers 19-0 (0:43). Then, we follow up on last week’s episode addressing concerns for the 2020 Yankees—all of which have gotten worse in the past week. Finally, we close with Good, Bad, Uggla and Yo, Manfred! (22:09).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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Labor Day Mailbag: Does Anyone Currently Playing Have a Chance to Become the Home Run King?

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0000

We open the mailbag to answer all your questions—silly or serious—about baseball in 2020, including: Does anyone currently playing have a realistic shot at breaking Barry Bonds’s career home run record? Why don’t we play more baseball in torrential downpours? What songs are the most disturbing choices for walk-up music? Plus: Special guest Jake’s mom joins to tell the story of Jake’s birth mere hours before Cal Ripken Jr. tied the all-time record for games consecutively played.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Helane Greenfeld

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A Deep Dive Into the Playoff Race. Plus: Ryan Ruocco on the Yankees' Strange Season and RIP, Tom Seaver.

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 19:17:06 -0000

It’s almost time to get down to brass tacks in the MLB playoff races. We run through all eight teams currently in position to make the playoffs in each league, and then discuss the chances they’ll stay there vs. who might bounce them out of their spot (1:11). Then, ‘R2C2’ cohost and ESPN/SNY broadcaster Ryan Ruocco joins the show to home in on Yankees, a team riddled with injuries that is slightly underperforming its massive 2020 expectations (26:02). Finally, we hit the Good, the Bad, and the Uggla before we remember Tom Seaver, the greatest Met of all time, and perhaps the greatest pitcher of all time, as well (1:00:45).

Subscribe to ‘R2C2’ with CC Sabathia and Ryan Ruocco here.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Ryan Ruocco

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The Five MLB Trades You Should Care About Most. Plus: Taylor Trammell on Getting Traded to the Mariners.

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 23:54:36 -0000

We start this week off by sharing the five MLB trades from today’s deadline that we (and thus you, listener), should care about the most (6:27), before giving rapid-fire reactions to every move that was made at the deadline (25:21). Then, we welcome in top-100 prospect Taylor Trammell to discuss what it’s like to be traded, his time in the Padres system, and what he’s looking forward to about Seattle (39:54). Finally, after a tumultuous week in Queens, we reup METSCON to discuss what level of chaos and disarray the Mets are currently in, and whether there’s any easy way out of it (1:01:33).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Taylor Trammell

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After the Milwaukee Bucks Stopped the NBA Season, Baseball Followed Suit … Cautiously

Thu, 27 Aug 2020 22:03:08 -0000

We discuss the biggest news in the baseball and sports world: teams sitting out in protest of police brutality and the shooting of Jacob Blake. First, we are joined by Russell Dorsey, Chicago Cubs beat reporter for the Chicago Sun-Times (3:48). Then we’re joined by Brent Suter of the Milwaukee Brewers, the first team to decide not to play this week (39:54).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guests: Russell Dorsey and Brent Suter

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A Budding Chicago Rivalry, Pitcher Debuts Galore, and the Padres Are on Fire. Plus: Randy Dobnak!

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 18:44:52 -0000

We bounce around the weekend in baseball news and series, including a very entertaining series between the White Sox and Cubs in which the White Sox proved they’re approaching the Cubs’ level (1:04). Then, we invite on Padres radio play-by-play announcer Jesse Agler to discuss what it was like to cover all the worst San Diego teams from 2014 to now, and how different it feels now that the Padres are both good and electrifying (19:12). Finally, we chat with Twins pitcher Randy Dobnak on his utterly bizarre journey to leading the majors in wins, before wrapping with Sorry For Your Mentions and our baseball moment of joy for the week (43:25).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guests: Jesse Agler and Randy Dobnak

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Thom Brennaman, Tatis Discourse, and a Mini Mailbag

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 21:58:48 -0000

Reds announcer Thom Brennaman was caught using an anti-LGBTQ slur at the beginning of the Reds broadcast yesterday. We discuss the implications for his job, his apology, and the culture that exists in baseball that allows these things to happen so consistently (2:43). Then, we summarize a week in hotly debated Fernando Tatís Jr. discourse—including taking a special sports-radio call—before closing with The Good, the Bad, and the Uggla (25:14).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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The Plesac/Clevinger Saga, a Truly Terrible Red Sox Team, and the Debut of METSCON

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 21:32:10 -0000

This week, we break down the latest news around the internal strife between Zach Plesac, Mike Clevinger, and the rest of the Cleveland roster after they broke COVID protocols last week (2:05). Then, we bring in The Boston Globe’s Red Sox beat reporter, Julian McWilliams, to gauge how the heck the Red Sox went from being average to one of the worst teams in baseball so quickly (25:30). Finally, we close with Sorry for Your Mentions; the debut of METSCON—how high-alert are Mets fans this week?; and Why Haven’t You Doubled Yet? (42:50)

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guets: Julian McWilliams

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Only Juan Soto Can Outdo Juan Soto

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 20:45:36 -0000

We offer rapid-fire reactions to the week in baseball news: Adam Plutko’s comments on his teammates breaking COVID protocols, Ramón Laureano’s suspension, Joe Kelly on Ross Stripling’s podcast, and the Buffalo Blue Jays (2:30). Then, we are joined by Washington Post Nationals beat reporter Jesse Dougherty for a boots in the press box report on Juan Soto’s mammoth home runs in Citi Field this week (25:35). Finally, we go to this week’s The Good, The Bad, and the Uggla, before sharing a moment of baseball joy (36:09).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Jesse Dougherty

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Ramón Laureano … What Are You Doing, Bro?

Mon, 10 Aug 2020 20:26:49 -0000

We open this week’s podcast by reviewing yesterday’s ill-advised brawl between the Oakland Athletics and the Houston Astros, from which the resulting penalties are rumored to be severe (1:02). Then, we bring on ESPN’s Clinton Yates to break down the unique and growing appeal of Fernando Tatís Jr. and to make the case for the runner on second rule (25:26). Finally, we debate whether the Rockies and Padres are actually good (57:23).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Clinton Yates

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Fernando Tatís Jr. Is Our Ken Griffey Jr.

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 23:33:16 -0000

We discuss the continued success of Fernando Tatís Jr. and the continued dominance of Mike Trout (0:54) before turning it over to conversations with one of baseball’s best pitchers, Shane Bieber (22:03), and newly minted Baltimore play-by-play announcer Melanie Newman (41:00). Finally, we share "The Good, the Bad, and the Uggla’" for the week (60:13).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guests: Shane Bieber and Melanie Newman

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The St. Louis Cardinals COVID Outbreak and the Bizarre Yoenis Céspedes Saga. Plus: Nate Pearson on His MLB Debut.

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 20:42:46 -0000

We discuss updates on COVID-related news across the league, including the St. Louis Cardinals’ season being temporarily suspended after news that 13 players tested positive for the coronavirus (1:10). Then, we react to a truly bizarre saga between the New York Mets and Yoenis Céspedes with New York Daily News reporter Deesha Thosar (12:24). Finally, we call up Blue Jays top pitching prospect Nate Pearson to discuss his stellar major league debut last Wednesday (39:19), before debuting a few new segments to close the episode (54:27).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guests: Deesha Thosar and Nate Pearson

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The Rapidly Evolving Marlins and Phillies COVID Outbreaks, National Anthem Demonstrations in MLB, and the Debut of The Good, the Bad, and the Uggla

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 21:38:04 -0000

We discuss the news that Phillies clubhouse managers have tested positive for COVID-19 and what that means for scheduling concerns just one week into the baseball season (1:43). Then, Bradford William Davis of the New York Daily News joins to discuss the way that MLB has handled demonstrations and kneeling during the national anthem during the first week of games (22:07). Finally, we debut a new in-season segment—“The Good, the Bad, and the Uggla”—in which we share one good thing from the last week, one bad thing, and one bizarre thing (42:35).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Bradford William Davis

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The Miami Marlins Have a COVID-19 Outbreak. What Do We Know Now About the Rest of the 2020 Season?

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 17:53:06 -0000

We bring on Marlins reporter and radio personality Craig Mish to discuss the news that more than 10 Marlins players have reportedly tested positive for COVID-19 just one weekend into the baseball season (3:07). Then, we discuss what this could mean for the rest of the 2020 season, Juan Soto’s positive test on Opening Day, the uneasy but uncannily normal feeling of watching baseball, and more (13:49).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Craig Mish

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Mookie Betts Signs a 12-Year, $365 Million Extension With the Dodgers, Plus: Previewing Every AL Team

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 00:34:13 -0000

We react to the mega Mookie extension—12 years and $365 million to stay with the Dodgers—and give our analysis of what the Blue Jays’ ballpark uncertainty means for the their competitiveness in 2020 and the league at large (1:42). Then, like we did earlier in the week for the National League, we set a timer for every AL team and tell you one reason that team is interesting (15:50).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guests: Mallory Rubin and Joon Lee

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(At Least) One Reason to Care About Every NL Team

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 22:34:38 -0000

The MLB season is a mere three days away. To preview the National League, we set a timer for each team and tell you one reason that team is interesting, and the best- and worst-case scenarios for your favorite team. Plus: Ian Happ tells you why the Cubs are going to win the World Series in a sweep.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Ian Happ

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The 10 Biggest What-ifs of the 2020 Season

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 10:00:00 -0000

With less than a week until the 2020 season is scheduled to start, we sit down to talk about some of the biggest, strangest, and most exciting unanswered questions spawned by an unprecedented 60-game MLB season.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guests: Adam Ottavino, Joe Davis

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MLB Is Back. What Is That Like?

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 10:00:00 -0000

We take you inside the world of the MLB return by talking with Pirates pitcher Trevor Williams (26:21), Yankees beat reporter Lindsey Adler (43:19), and Marlins pitcher Sterling Sharp (64:49). We know 2020 is different, but how different? How are players and reporters preparing for one of the strangest seasons in baseball history?

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guests: Lindsey Adler, Trevor Williams, and Sterling Sharp

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An Ode to Minor League Baseball. Plus: We’re Not Sure the 2020 Season Is Really Going to Happen.

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 01:50:34 -0000

Even though summer training has begun, it's hard to believe the 2020 MLB season is really going to come to fruition without a major improvement in COVID-19-testing protocol. Will MLB figure it out? Next, we pour out a metaphorical cheap beer now that the cancellation of the 2020 minor league season has been finalized and share the things we miss most about the minor leagues—and why Rob Manfred would do well to reverse course on downsizing it.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Ben Hill

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What Will the MLB Rule Changes Actually Change? Plus: ‘Koshien’ Director Ema Ryan Yamazaki

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 01:00:00 -0000

Universal designated hitter, a runner on second base to start extra innings, and expanded active rosters—what will all this mean for the on-field product in 2020? We discuss those changes, their effect on our beloved Yoenis Céspedes, and where Yasiel Puig will end up (0:00). Then, we are joined by documentary filmmaker Ema Ryan Yamazaki to discuss her film ‘Koshien: Japan’s Field of Dreams’—an engrossing, humanistic exploration of Japan’s national high school baseball tournament and the players and coaches that compete in it (0:00).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Ema Ryan Yamazaki

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How Are We Supposed to Feel About MLB Coming Back? Plus: Preston Wilson on Baseball’s Racial Inequities and Lucas Giolito on Allyship.

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 01:35:10 -0000

Major League Baseball finally has a plan to return. We bring on Michael Baumann to make sense of the coming 60-day season, the convoluted negotiations that led to this point, and our place in the sport as fans and media (2:55). Then we talk to retired outfielder Preston Wilson about his life and career, how biases in player development contribute to racial inequities in the majors, and the concrete steps the baseball community can take to start unlearning biases (23:48). Lastly, White Sox pitcher Lucas Giolito joins to discuss what white allyship looks like in MLB, why this generation of players seems willing to speak out on issues of social justice, and whether demands for systemic change will persist once games resume (59:08).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guests: Michael Baumann, Preston Wilson, and Lucas Giolito

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Will MLB Really Cancel the 2020 Season? Plus: Renel Brooks-Moon on Her Incredible Career and Activism in Baseball

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 02:09:57 -0000

The baseball news cycle is as confusing as it is frustrating—we bring on Ben Lindbergh to parse all the facts that you need to know about the likelihood of MLB playing this summer (2:13). Then, Giants PA announcer Renel Brooks-Moon joins to talk about her wonderful journey into baseball media, how this player activism movement compares to others she’s seen and participated in, and how the baseball world can better address its race and gender inequities (26:31).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Ben Lindbergh and Renel Brooks-Moon

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‘Long Gone Summer’ Director AJ Schnack on the Summer Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa Changed Baseball

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 03:00:00 -0000

We’re back early this week with a bonus podcast: It’s an interview with the director of ‘Long Gone Summer,’ the newest ESPN Films documentary on Mark McGwire's and Sammy Sosa’s battle for the single-season home run record in the summer of 1998. We ask AJ what made him want to make a film about this moment, the most difficult part of recounting this story, and why these two figures made that home run chase so compelling.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: AJ Schnack

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How Will Baseball Address Its Shortcomings With Race and Accessibility?

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 15:24:55 -0000

As the nation continues to protest police brutality after the killings of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, calls for change and accountability have spread to the baseball world. How can the sport—at all levels—grow more diverse and improve the experience of Black players? In this episode, we speak to Royals minor leaguer Nick Heath and Johns Hopkins third baseman Matt Ritchie to gain their perspective.

To donate to the Black Lives Matter Global Network, click here.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guests: Nick Heath and Matt Ritchie

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Will We Ever See a Two-Sport Superstar Again?

Wed, 27 May 2020 10:00:00 -0000

From the headliner to the sideshow, we’re giving you everything you need to know about two-sport baseball stars. Will we see one in the future, or was Kyler Murray our last shot? Settle the debate: Bo or Prime Time? Plus, Brian Jordan on what it was like to play in the NFL and MLB, protecting Mark McGwire in the lineup as he chased 70 home runs in a single season, and why he ended up choosing baseball over football (29:54).

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Brian Jordan

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The Strange Origins and Glorious Evolution of the Home Run Derby

Wed, 20 May 2020 10:00:00 -0000

For our second episode, it’s all about the long ball, baby. We break down everything we love about the Home Run Derby, the only purely joyful event on the baseball calendar. Who are the five greatest to ever do it? What is the derby’s ideal format? And which derby pitchers are the best at giving up dingers? Plus: a conversation with Phillies slugger Rhys Hoskins.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Rhys Hoskins

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Your Definitive Guide to Baseball Brawls | Baseball BBQ

Wed, 13 May 2020 10:00:00 -0000

Jake and Jordan bring you everything you need to know about baseball brawls and then some, from ranking the top five in MLB history to examining what makes a good (and not so good) brawl. Plus, Reds reliever Amir Garrett explains what it was like to start the biggest brawl of the 2019 season. Hold on to your helmets and sunglasses—we’re coming out swinging.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Amir Garrett

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Introducing Baseball BBQ

Thu, 07 May 2020 10:00:00 -0000

Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman will serve as your guides to the good, bad, and utterly bizarre corners of the baseball world and all that makes it special. In the run-up to the delayed season, they’ll dive down the rabbit holes of some of their favorite fascinations, from the home run derby to baseball brawls and more. Once the MLB season returns, they’ll break down the latest news and developments with their trademark wit and irreverence.

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