The Ringer MLB Show

Follow ‘Ringer Baseball’ on Spotify to Listen to ‘The Ringer MLB Show’ This Season

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

‘The Ringer MLB Show’ has a new home this season: ‘Ringer Baseball.’ We’ll be moving over and sharing the ‘Ringer Baseball’ feed alongside ‘Baseball BBQ.’ So search ‘Ringer Baseball’ on Spotify and follow—the podcast will be exclusive to Spotify starting later in April.

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Where Will Each Big-Name Free Agent Land This Offseason? Plus: Preseason Prop Bets in Review.

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 20:54:39 -0000

We recap the week in managerial hires (0:45) before guessing where some of the biggest free agents like Trevor Bauer, George Springer, Corey Kluber, and more will land this offseason (18:00). Finally, we review Michael Baumann’s preseason prop bets and how everyone did with their predictions (45:30).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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Introducing ‘The Ringer MLB Show’

Sat, 31 Oct 2020 04:00:00 -0000

Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, and Zach Kram break down MLB’s on-field action, roster moves, and quirks every week, with occasional appearances from a rotating cast of Ringer staffers and plugged-in media members around the league.

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The Dodgers Are World Series Champions After a 32-Year Drought

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 19:09:49 -0000

We discuss everything—the Dodgers’ clutch hitting and bullpen, the Blake Snell decision, and of course Justin Turner’s positive COVID test—from the Dodgers’ World Series–clinching victory over the Tampa Bay Rays. Plus: Dynasty talk has become popular in baseball. Is the Dodgers’ dynasty validated, and is there an end in sight?

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 10:00:00 -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

This episode originally ran on the 'Baseball BBQ' feed. Follow 'Baseball BBQ' on Spotify.

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Instant Reactions to World Series Game 5 | R2C2

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 06:22:39 -0000

Clayton Kershaw continued to rewrite the narrative that he struggles in the postseason, as the Dodgers took a 3-2 lead over the Rays in the World Series. Can the Rays once again even the series on the back of a strong Blake Snell start? Or will the Dodgers close it out in six games? Plus: We react to the end of Game 4 from Saturday night, one of the most ridiculous finishes to any baseball game ever, let alone a World Series game.

Hosts: CC Sabathia and Ryan Ruocco

This episode originally ran on the 'R2C2 with CC Sabathia and Ryan Ruocco' feed. Follow 'R2C2' on Spotify.

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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. | Baseball BBQ

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 10:00:00 -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

This episode originally ran on the 'Baseball BBQ' feed. Follow 'Baseball BBQ' on Spotify.

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Dave Stewart Talks Reggie Jackson, Bob Gibson, Sandy Koufax, and How Pitching Has Changed Since He Played | R2C2

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 17:05:41 -0000

We start this week with a Slingin’ Heat featuring Mookie Betts, NFL betting lines, and the upcoming league collective bargaining negotiations (1:50). Then, we’re joined by three-time World Series champion Dave Stewart to talk about his illustrious playoff career, the toughest batters he ever faced, pitching wisdom he learned from Bob Gibson and Sandy Koufax, how the game has become less about entertainment, and more (13:03).

Hosts: CC Sabathia and Ryan Ruocco

Guest: Dave Stewart

This episode originally ran on the 'R2C2 With CC Sabathia and Ryan Ruocco' feed. Follow R2C2 on Spotify for more.

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Mookie Betts and Clayton Kershaw Dominated Game 1. Is the World Series Now the Dodgers’ to Lose?

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 20:10:57 -0000

We recap a lopsided Game 1 of the World Series that featured a dominant Clayton Kershaw start combined with all five tools of Mookie Betts prominently displayed. Then, we wonder whether the Rays’ pitching staff can keep the Dodgers under five runs per game for the rest of the series, and if not, whether the Rays lineup has any hope of winning the series for them. Finally, we briefly discuss commissioner Rob Manfred’s quotes about wanting to keep the expanded 16-team postseason moving forward.

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 10:00:00 -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

This episode originally ran on the 'Baseball BBQ' feed. Follow 'Baseball BBQ' on Spotify.

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How Should the Best Franchises Balance Analytics With Old-School Wisdom? Plus: A Mid-Playoffs Mailbag. | R2C2

Sat, 17 Oct 2020 19:52:35 -0000

We’re back for another late-night podcast to react to the Dodgers’ offensive outburst in Game 3 of the NLCS and the Rays’ sturdy rotation and bullpen through four games in the ALCS. Plus: CC slings some heat about analytics, the New York tabloids, and the Jets’ and Giants’ quarterback situations. Finally, we take some of your questions about the future of the Yankees rotation, what it’s like in the locker room after a tough postseason elimination, and more (44:28).

Hosts: CC Sabathia and Ryan Ruocco

This episode originally ran on the 'R2C2 with CC Sabathia and Ryan Ruocco' feed. Follow 'R2C2' on Spotify or wherever you get podcasts.

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

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 16:58:14 -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

This episode originally ran on the 'Baseball BBQ' feed. Follow 'Baseball BBQ' on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

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Are the Dodgers and Astros Cooked?

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 05:29:56 -0000

The Rays are up 3-0 on the Astros, and it sure seems like they’re clicking better than any other team in baseball and they are poised to reach the World Series. We discuss their unmatched collection of rotation and bullpen arms, the Astros struggling to get timely hits, José Altuve’s throwing errors, and more (1:30), before switching over to the NL, where the Braves have shocked the Dodgers by getting out to a 2-0 series lead. Is this finally the year Dave Roberts gets the hook for his questionable bullpen usage, or can the Dodgers bats help turn things around for the heavy favorites (19:30)?

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 11:00:00 -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

This podcast originally ran on the 'Baseball BBQ' feed. You can follow Baseball BBQ here on Spotify.

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The Rays Eliminate the Yankees In a Heartbreaking Game 5 | R2C2

Sat, 10 Oct 2020 06:46:34 -0000

Gerrit Cole and Tyler Glasnow were electric on short rest. Aaron Judge went yard off the best reliever of 2020. The Yankees’ and Rays’ bullpens went toe-to-toe. But it was Mike Brosseau taking Yankees closer Aroldis Chapman deep that was the difference. We break down everything Yankees-Rays Game 5, where the series went wrong for New York, what the future looks like constructed around this current core, and more on an instant-reaction R2C2.

Hosts: CC Sabathia and Ryan Ruocco

This episode originally ran on the 'R2C2 with CC Sabathia and Ryan Ruocco' feed. Follow 'R2C2' on Spotify.

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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. | Baseball BBQ

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 18:23:11 -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

This podcast originally ran on the 'Baseball BBQ' feed. Follow on Spotify here.

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Yankees-Rays Game 3 Instant Reactions. Plus: Making Sense of Kyrie’s Coaching Comments. | R2C2

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 19:46:31 -0000

CC and Ryan give their immediate takeaways as the Yankees fall behind the Rays 2-1 in the ALDS, preview Game 4, and discuss the Yankees’ chances of combing back in the series (1:08). Plus, this week in Slingin’ Heat, we hear CC’s take on Derek Jeter’s tenure thus far as the Marlins CEO, Kyrie Irving’s comments about the role of head coaches on the Nets, why the NFL hates the Raiders, and more (40:42).

Hosts: CC Sabathia and Ryan Ruocco

This podcast originally ran on the `R2C2 with CC Sabathia and Ryan Ruocco` feed. Follow `R2C2` on Spotify.

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MLB Divisional Series Check-in: The Marlins-Acuña Beef, Yankees Pitching Shenanigans, Astros Villainy, and the Dodgers’ Dominant Depth

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 17:09:57 -0000

After a hectic wild-card week, we’ve settled in nicely to the rhythm of the divisional series. This week on the show, we bounce around to each series and give an in-depth recap of the big story lines. What looks real and what will peter out if the series drag on to five games? Are the Marlins beaning Acuña on purpose? Did Aaron Boone botch Game 2? Are the Astros doing a bit or have they actually convinced themselves they’re the protagonists of this playoffs?

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 17:33:48 -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).

This episode originally ran on 'Baseball BBQ.' Follow on Spotify for more.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

Guest: Boog Sciambi

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Will Anyone Pick Against the Dodgers? We Preview the First Round and Predict the World Series.

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0000

One of the strangest postseasons in MLB history is about to start. Does that mean any of us will pick a true underdog to win the World Series? We preview the first round series by series before sharing who we think will be the last team standing this year.

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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2020 MLB Awards Ballots. Plus, the Playoff Contenders Who’ve Surprised Us the Most.

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 21:49:28 -0000

For the final time this season, we run through the biggest movers in terms of playoff odds, and share which of the final contenders have surprised us most this season (1:27). Then, with less than a week left in the season, we share our MVP, Cy Young, and Rookie of the Year ballots, including unanimous choices like Shane Bieber for AL Cy Young, and three-way split decisions like Freddie Freeman, Fernando Tatís Jr., and Mookie Betts for NL MVP (33:44).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, and Zach Kram

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The MLB Playoff Structure Is Changing. How Will That Affect This Year and Beyond?

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 00:52:12 -0000

We lead the podcast by discussing the news that commissioner Rob Manfred and team owners want to make the 2020 playoff structure (16 teams and a three-game series in the first round) permanent (1:35). Then, we discuss how the MLB playoff bubble will affect this year and how team strategies will change because there are no days off in between games (18:38). Finally, we preview a weekend full of key series for the 2020 playoff picture (31:58) before discussing the largest movers by playoff odds this past week (48:13).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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The Divergent Paths of the 2020 Yankees and Dodgers

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 21:10:12 -0000

We narrow in on the two biggest preseason favorites to win the 2020 World Series: the Yankees and the Dodgers. What has contributed to their polar opposite seasons, and can the Yankees pull it together in time to regain their chance at a 2020 ring (8:12)? Then, we remember MLB legends Lou Brock and Tom Seaver (27:11) and then choose a preseason underdog that we now think is most likely to make the playoffs (36:02).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, and Zach Kram

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Yankees-Rays Is the Fiercest Rivalry in Baseball. Plus, Trade Deadline Takeaways.

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 21:58:10 -0000

After some alleged beanball dominated the discourse around the Yankees-Rays game last night, we outline the recent history of bad blood between the two teams (1:34). Then, we discuss the highest impact trades from the deadline on Monday, including Mike Clevinger and Austin Nola to the Padres (16:29). Finally, we talk about the biggest playoff odds moves of the week (51:34).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, and Zach Kram

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Our MLB Award Ballots at the Halfway Point

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 20:07:14 -0000

With nearly half of the season over (unbelievably), we run down the awards ballots for the AL and NL and share our top three picks for MVP, Cy Young, and Rookie of the Year (6:37). Then, we end by recapping the last week in playoff odds changes (48:06).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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Has Fernando Tatis Jr. Put the Nail in the Coffin on Unwritten Rules?

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 22:10:39 -0000

This week, we home in on the biggest story in baseball: Fernando Tatis Jr. vs. regressive unwritten rules. We open by wondering whether this will be the old generation’s last big stance against electric young players (1:03), before inviting The Ringer’s Shea Serrano onto the show so he can learn and react to some of baseball’s most ridiculous unwritten rules (21:15). Finally, Mike and Ben close by assessing the most drastic movers by FanGraphs’ playoff odds (46:41).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Shea Serrano

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Gerrit Cole on Being the Yankees’ Ace, Building Relationships With New Teammates, and Witnessing Aaron Judge’s Greatness | R2C2

Sun, 16 Aug 2020 10:00:00 -0000

Gerrit Cole is the new guy in the Bronx—CC knows a little something about that. The guys are joined by the Yankees’ new ace to talk about staying intense with no fans in the stands (12:45), getting to know new teammates and developing a relationship with a new catcher (34:00), CC’s ceremonial first pitch (43:47), witnessing Aaron Judge up close and personal (49:42), and more.

This podcast originally aired on 'R2C2.' Subscribe on Spotify.

Hosts: CC Sabathia and Ryan Ruocco

Guest: Gerrit Cole

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What If Fernando Tatís Jr. Went 20/20 This Year?

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 20:35:20 -0000

Zach Kram breaks out more halfway-hot takes to open this week’s episode, including that the Angels offense will finish in the top two in baseball but the team will miss the playoffs, Fernando Tatís Jr. will go 20/20 in only 60 games, and more (1:40). Then, Ben Lindbergh joins to make sense of the Cleveland starting rotation violating COVID protocols, and then discusses the biggest movers in playoff odds this week (25:02).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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Ramón Laureano … What Are You Doing, Bro? | Baseball BBQ

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 03:22:08 -0000

We open this week's podcast by reviewing Sunday'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).

This podcast initially aired on the "Baseball BBQ" feed. Follow on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Hosts: Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman

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Let Us Be Your Baseball Sommeliers

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 10:00:00 -0000

We scan over the last week in COVID-related baseball news, including the latest on outbreaks in St. Louis and Miami, Yoenis Céspedes opting out, and more (1:23). Then, we curate some of the best things you can spend this shortened season watching—from Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, to Fernando Tatís Jr., all the way to Shane Bieber and James Karinchak (17:14).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, and Zach Kram

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The Miami Marlins’ Season Is on Pause. Should the Rest of MLB Follow Suit?

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 20:02:18 -0000

Now a couple of days removed from news of a COVID-19 outbreak on the Miami Marlins, we break down what this means for the other 29 teams in baseball, whether the season has a hope of rebounding and finishing, and how MLB can put a better foot forward with its coronavirus protocols (1:19). Then, we discuss an unfortunate rash of pitcher injuries before debuting a new segment in which we choose the largest movers by playoff probability and discuss how their previous week of games affects their chances in a shortened season (30:39).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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The 12 Players Most Likely to Hit .400 or Post an ERA Under 1.00

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 22:48:10 -0000

The MLB season is just one day away. We preview the strange 60-game season by choosing the players we think are most likely to reach statistical milestones unseen in this millennium: hitting .400 for a full season or posting an ERA less than Bob Gibson’s 1.12 mark from 1968 (30:57). Plus: Michael Baumann’s annual prop bet game (1:51).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, and Zach Kram

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MLB Delays Opening Day, Suspends Spring Training | The Ringer MLB Show

Thu, 12 Mar 2020 21:53:10 -0000

We gather for an update to our previous conversation about the coronavirus after MLB announced that it would suspend spring training and delay the beginning of the season by at least two weeks.

Hosts: Ben Lindbergh and Zach Kram

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Uncertainty Over the Coronavirus, NL Over/Unders, and Bold Predictions | The Ringer MLB Show

Thu, 12 Mar 2020 16:23:50 -0000

We briefly discuss the evolving situation surrounding the coronavirus as it pertains to Major League Baseball (0:45) before previewing the upcoming season by analyzing whether teams will finish over or under their projected win totals (11:55). We finish with Zach Kram making four long-shot predictions that he thinks have a chance to play out in the National League this year (38:16).

Disclaimer: This podcast was recorded Wednesday, March 11, at noon PT.

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About the Astros Cheating Scandal | The Ringer MLB Show

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 11:00:00 -0000

As we prepare to preview the 2020 season, we recap the biggest story of the offseason: the Houston Astros' sign-stealing scandal and MLB’s response to it. We run through a list of 10 questions and explain the effects the punishment will have on the 2020 season.

Hosts: Michael Baumann and Zach Kram

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Mookie Betts Traded From Red Sox to Dodgers | The Ringer MLB Show

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 01:05:05 -0000

We convene for another emergency podcast to discuss the biggest MLB trade in years: former MVP Mookie Betts to the Los Angeles Dodgers. We run down what this means for the competitive balance of baseball in the 2020 season, why the Red Sox didn’t back up the Brinks truck, and more.

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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GM Jeff Luhnow and Manager AJ Hinch Fired Amid Astros Cheating Scandal | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 00:17:24 -0000

The punishment is in: the Houston Astros' GM and manager were both suspended for a year by Major League Baseball and subsequently fired by the Astros. Has this set a strong enough precedent for what the Astros did? Plus: Will Red Sox manager Alex Cora get the worst suspension of all for his role in devising the Astros' sign-stealing scheme?

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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Anthony Rendon Is the Third Star to Sign in Just One Week. What Does This Mean for Free Agency’s Health? | The Ringer MLB Show

Thu, 12 Dec 2019 19:16:37 -0000

In our third emergency free-agent signing podcast of the week, we break down the contract for former Nationals third baseman Anthony Rendon: seven years and $245 million to play for the Los Angeles Angels. Now that the best hitter and the best pitcher are off the market, how will the rest of free agency shake out? Plus: analysis of this year’s market versus last year’s much slower, bleaker market.

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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Gerrit Cole, the New York Yankees, and $324 Million—a Baseball Love Triangle | The Ringer MLB Show

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 20:51:42 -0000

Gerrit Cole just signed the biggest contract in baseball history for a pitcher, and it’s not particularly close. Does this mean the Yankees are the Yankees of old, and have they upended the Astros as the best team in baseball? Plus: The AL East is stacked. Is the addition of Cole, the best pitcher in baseball, enough to win that arms race?

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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Stephen Strasburg Is Back With the Nationals for Record Money. Is Gerrit Cole Up Next? | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 10 Dec 2019 02:17:05 -0000

We react to the news that Stephen Strasburg is headed back to the Washington Nationals for the largest total contract for a pitcher in baseball history. What does this mean for his (maybe former) teammate Anthony Rendon, as well as the other top starting pitcher on the market, Gerrit Cole?

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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The Nationals' Championship Celebrations and Offseason Predictions | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 11:00:00 -0000

We run through the Washington Nationals' weekend in celebration, including Monday’s trip to the White House (3:00), before forecasting a slow offseason and predicting where the league’s top free agents might end up (33:51).

Hosts: Michael Baumann and Zach Kram

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The Washington Nationals Have Toppled the Houston Astros to Win the World Series | The Ringer MLB Show

Thu, 31 Oct 2019 17:34:12 -0000

After a postseason in which Washington trailed in five elimination games, the Nationals clawed their way through to win their first World Series since returning to the capital. We convene to discuss how they pulled it off, the future for both the Nationals and the Astros, and the 2019 postseason at large.

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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The Astros Have Taken Back Control of the World Series | The Ringer MLB Show

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 16:47:26 -0000

With the Astros now up 3-2 over the Nationals, we discuss the odds that the Nationals can get back on track in this series. Will Stephen Strasburg keep their hopes alive in Game 6, and in that case, will we see Max Scherzer for a potential Game 7? Plus, we discuss the malaise hanging over the World Series after the fallout from Astros assistant general manager Brandon Taubman’s inappropriate comments toward a group of reporters after the ALCS victory.

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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World Series Preview: Cole vs. Scherzer, Soto vs. Hinch, and X Factors We’re Looking Out For | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 00:43:01 -0000

We preview the elite starting-pitcher matchups that are dominating the narrative heading into the 2019 World Series before running down a number of X factors that we think might tip the series between the Washington Nationals and the Houston Astros.

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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Championship Series Updates: The Astros Draw Even With the Yankees While the Cardinals Can’t Muster a Hit Against the Nats | The Ringer MLB Show

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 17:20:44 -0000

The Yankees and Astros just completed one of the most well-played games in recent playoff memory, capped by a loud Carlos Correa walk off home run. With Gerrit Cole still to throw, are the Yankees a step behind in the ALCS (1:10)? On the National League side of the bracket, the Nationals’ starting rotation has completely stifled the Cardinals offense through two games. We wonder if that series is headed toward a sweep (31:13).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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The Yankees Advance, the Astros Hit a Speed Bump, and the Dodgers Might Have Found Their Equal | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 21:16:25 -0000

We wonder whether the American League divisional series are all but over as the Yankees sweep the Twins and the Astros tab Justin Verlander to start Game 4 (1:00). Then, we analyze the National League divisional series as they stand now, both tied at 2 and headed for fifth games (28:31).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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AL and NL Wild Card and Divisional Series Previews | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 01:03:26 -0000

Ahead of the start of the 2019 playoffs, we preview the National League (2:00) and American League (29:29) first rounds, including each league’s wild card game. Then, we answer a mailbag full of playoff questions (52:46).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guests: Bobby Wagner

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The 2019 All-Ringer Team. Plus: Susan Slusser on the A’s Wild-Card Plans. | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 24 Sep 2019 23:09:09 -0000

We share the NL (1:40) and AL (44:50) players whom we covered and talked about most in the 2019 season. In between those two segments, Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle joins to discuss where the A’s stand as we head into the playoffs (27:10).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Susan Slusser

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The Late-Season Injury Epidemic: How Injuries to Christian Yelich, Javy Baez, Anthony Rizzo, and José Ramirez Could Affect the Playoff Race | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 17 Sep 2019 20:57:13 -0000

We run through the list of stars to go down with injuries in the last two weeks and wonder what kind of effect it has on both the playoff run and the playoffs themselves (1:16). Then, FanGraphs writer Jay Jaffe joins to discuss team entropy—the idea that we should root for chaos in playoff and wild-card berths as the season wraps up (23:18). Finally, Ben Lindbergh joins to give out awards to the least-recognized players of the 2019 season (43:56).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guests: Jay Jaffe

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Dave Dombrowski Is Out as Red Sox President of Baseball Operations. Why? Plus: The Cubs’ Playoff Chances and the Astros Historic Offense. | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 10 Sep 2019 20:43:21 -0000

We convene to talk about one of the strangest stories in baseball this year—Dave Dombrowski's firing less than a year after leading the Red Sox to a World Series (1:20). Then, Sahadev Sharma of The Athletic joins to forecast what’s to come in the near and far future for the Chicago Cubs, including whether Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo, and Joe Maddon will be around much longer (21:56). Finally, Ben Lindbergh joins to discuss the Houston Astros’ historic offense, the best offense compared with the rest of the league since the 1927 Yankees (47:46).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Sahadev Sharma

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Justin Verlander and Gerrit Cole Make the Astros World Series Favorites. Plus: Reflecting on the Black Sox Scandal, 100 Years Later. | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 03 Sep 2019 22:09:36 -0000

Justin Verlander threw his third career no-hitter this weekend, sparking conversations about whether the Astros' dominant rotation makes them heavy favorites heading into the postseason (1:25). Plus: Jacob Pomrenke of SABR joins to reflect on the 100-year anniversary of the Black Sox Scandal (16:03), and Ben Lindbergh gives the rundown on players to watch out for now that rosters have expanded in September (40:02).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Jacob Pomrenke

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The Diminishing Role of the Starter, Players’ Weekend, and Orioles vs. Tigers for Baseball’s Basement | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 27 Aug 2019 20:44:49 -0000

After shutting down rookie starter Griffin Canning for the season, the Angels have set themselves up for a year in which none of their starters will pitch 100 innings. Is this the future of baseball (1:25)? Plus: Grant Brisbee on the boring nature of Players’ Weekend and MLB jerseys (24:07), and Ben Lindbergh on MLB’s race for the first overall pick (46:28).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Grant Brisbee

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The Aristides Aquino Tear, the Athletics vs. Rays AL Wild-Card Race, and the Blossoming of Young Hitters | The Ringer MLB Show

Wed, 21 Aug 2019 10:00:00 -0000

The hipster baseball event of the year is A’s vs. Rays for the AL wild card—which team has the edge (1:00)? Plus, The Athletic’s C. Trent Rosecrans on Cincinnati breakout rookie Aristides Aquino (23:16) and Ben Lindbergh on a historically good crop of young position players (38:59).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: C. Trent Rosecrans

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The Phillies Are Not Who We Thought They Were. Plus: Should We Panic About the Twins? | Why I Hate My Team

Fri, 16 Aug 2019 10:00:00 -0000

Michael Baumann comes on to detail the failures of the 2019 Phillies—both in team building and keeping players healthy (1:00). Then Meg Schuster shares a heavy dose of Minnesota nihilism as she worries about whether 2019 will be lost to Cleveland (27:15).

Host: Bobby Wagner

Guests: Michael Baumann and Meg Schuster

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Do Home Run Records Matter Anymore? Plus: Gleyber Torres Bludgeons the Orioles and the AL Central Is Shifting | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 13 Aug 2019 21:53:00 -0000

We discuss how the juiced ball is starting to cloud the importance of baseball record books (1:00). Then, Lindsey Adler joins to talk about a weird Yankees season that has seen unlikely heroes like Mike Tauchman and Gio Urshela save the day (24:01), before Ben Lindbergh closes out by talking about how the Twins have lost their grip on the AL Central (40:50).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Lindsey Adler

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Why Don’t Teams Stop Trading With the Astros? | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 06 Aug 2019 21:59:37 -0000

The new trade deadline has produced a waiver market similar to the NBA's—what does this mean for teams trying to build around the edges (0:55)? Plus, the Mets have been the hottest team in baseball since the All-Star break (21:41), and the Astros continue to win lopsided trades with noncontenders (43:50).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Jarrett Seidler

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Brian Cashman and the Yankees Whiffed on Starting Pitching at the Deadline—Again. Plus: the Giants Stand Pat | Why I Hate My Team

Fri, 02 Aug 2019 22:38:28 -0000

Claire McNear joins the show to detail the emotional journey of Giants fans in 2019, as they watched their star players get dangled in trades but then ultimately stay in black and orange (1:00). Then, Sean Yoo wonders why the Yankees haven’t been able to fix their starting rotation at consecutive deadlines, while fellow contenders like the Astros have added Justin Verlander and Zack Greinke (14:18).

Host: Bobby Wagner

Guests: Claire McNear and Sean Yoo

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MLB Trade Deadline: Zack Greinke, Yasiel Puig, Trevor Bauer Trades Save a Slow Deadline | The Ringer MLB Show

Wed, 31 Jul 2019 21:57:44 -0000

We break down the 2019 MLB trade deadline, which began with fringe moves involving relievers like Mark Melancon, but ended with Zack Greinke moving to the Astros and making them the World Series favorite. Plus, we recap the Trevor Bauer–for–Yasiel Puig trade, which broke the day before the deadline.

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zack Kram

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MLB Trade Deadline Preview: The Line Between Buyers and Sellers Is Blurry | The Ringer MLB Show

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 18:12:09 -0000

We break down which teams should have their chips in the center of the table (1:00), which teams should be trying to maximize the value of their stars (30:34), and which teams maybe shouldn’t do either.

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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The Yasiel Puig Stages of Grief and Five Decades of Cleveland Sorrow | Why I Hate My Team

Fri, 26 Jul 2019 10:00:00 -0000

The Dodgers' Yasiel Puig trade this offseason shook some fans to their core. Craig Gaines joins to share why that angst has passed. Plus, will this be the year the Dodgers get over the hump, or is there reason for continued anxiety for the best team in baseball heading into the postseason (2:00)? Then, Rob Harvilla calls in to delineate the Indians’ two-year fallout since the 2016 World Series (16:27).

Host: Bobby Wagner

Guests: Craig Gaines and Rob Harvilla

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A Big Hall of Fame Class, the Braves’ Quiet Competence, and New International Signing Revelations | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 23:41:57 -0000

The Braves have been the most competent team in an NL East full of turmoil—why aren’t we talking more about them? Then Marc Normandin joins to discuss the latest deep dives into MLB’s cynical international practices. Finally we review the Hall of Fame ceremonies from over the weekend, which included the inductions of Mike Mussina, Roy Halladay, and Edgar Martinez, among others.

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Marc Normandin

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Trade Deadline Action Is Off to a Modest Start. Plus: The Phillies Are Spiraling. | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 16 Jul 2019 21:29:52 -0000

Contending teams have started to make modest moves for rotation help and extra bats in the lineup—are larger moves coming down the road or will this be a slow July (0:52)? Plus, the Phillies are in a state of turmoil on the field that could lead to one off (22:58), while the Giants have overperformed expectations to the point that it might throw a wrench in their plans to trade stars like Madison Bumgarner (38:24).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Meghan Montemurro

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The Home Run Derby Was the Most Exciting Baseball Moment Since the World Series | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 09 Jul 2019 22:10:27 -0000

We break down the Vlad Guerrero Jr. show that was the Home Run Derby (1:11) before calling up FanGraphs’ Eric Longenhagen to talk about what stood out to him at the MLB Futures Game (17:44). Then, to wrap up the pod, Ben Lindbergh comes on to speculate about what we most have to look forward to in the second half of the season (37:06).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram,

Guest: Eric Longenhagen

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The Tragic Loss of Angels Pitcher Tyler Skaggs. Plus: Wishing the MLB Was a Little More Like the NBA. | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 02 Jul 2019 23:20:57 -0000

We mourn the unexpected loss of Los Angeles Angels pitcher Tyler Skaggs and discuss what he meant to his team and the camaraderie of MLB teammates (0:48). Then Donnie Kwak joins the show to talk about his cousin Tommy Edman’s first few weeks in the big leagues (17:30), and finally we discuss the stark contrast between the NBA and MLB offseasons and free agency (38:35).

Host: Michael Baumann, Zach Kram, Ben Lindbergh

Guests: Donnie Kwak

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Really, More Mets Talk? Plus, Manny Machado Returns Home | Why I Hate My Team

Sat, 29 Jun 2019 17:54:44 -0000

In the first episode of “Why I Hate My Team,” Sean Fennessey joins to have a (relatively) reasonable conversation about the turmoil in Queens over the past two weeks (0:30). Then, Mallory Rubin describes the acute pain of watching your favorite baseball player return, in a different uniform, to your team’s home ballpark (25:00).

Host: Bobby Wagner

Guests: Sean Fennessey and Mallory Rubin

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The Mets Are at Dysfunction DEFCON 1 | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 25 Jun 2019 21:26:59 -0000

We detail the latest week in Mets mania (1:10), wonder how Lance Lynn became possibly the best pitcher in baseball (26:15), and try to make sense of MLB’s plan for international expansion—specifically theLondon series and the Rays' early plans for a Montreal/Tampa Bay crossover (39:39).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh

Guests: Katie Baker, Craig Edwards

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The State of the Padres, Plus: Do the Yankees Have the Most Stacked Lineup Ever? | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 19:48:04 -0000

The Yankees traded for Edwin Encarnación this weekend and expect to get Giancarlo Stanton and Aaron Judge back soon. Is this the deepest home-run-hitting lineup of all time (1:30)? Then we check in with MLB.com Padres beat writer AJ Cassavell about the state of baseball in San Diego as it continues to be more interesting than it has been in years (18:54). Finally, we do our annual checkup on Clayton Kershaw’s status as the ace of his generation and wonder whether he’ll age as nicely as lefties like Tom Glavine have (40:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: AJ Cassavell

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David Ortiz, All-Star Voting, and the Juiced Ball | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 11 Jun 2019 20:52:08 -0000

We bounce around a busy week in baseball news, starting with a first look at some surprising names atop the All-Star voting leaderboards (2:12) and then discussing David Ortiz’s health after he was shot in the Dominican Republic (21:31). We finish by talking about whether the home run is diminished by the ball flying out of the park seemingly easier than it ever has before (37:51).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Emma Baccellieri

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MLB Draft Reactions, Plus Ben’s New Book ‘The MVP Machine’ | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 04 Jun 2019 20:10:39 -0000

We react to the first worthwhile trade of the MLB season—Jay Bruce to the Philadelphia Phillies (1:45). Then, FanGraphs lead prospect analyst Eric Longenhagen joins the show to go deep on the (still unfolding) MLB draft, sharing his biggest winners so far (21:00). Finally, Ben Lindbergh shares the work and reporting that went into his latest book, 'The MVP Machine': What was the impetus for writing it? What was the most surprising and resounding takeaway (45:34)?

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Eric Longenhagen

Buy Ben's book here!

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We Finally Talk NCAA Baseball | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 28 May 2019 20:51:48 -0000

We open this week’s show by processing what it means for the Red Sox to see the Dustin Pedroia era truly on its last legs and then memorializing the life and career of Bill Buckner (1:00). Then, Baseball America’s Teddy Cahill joins the show to break down the upcoming NCAA men’s baseball tournament and its respective pro prospects (18:40). Finally, we theorize over how the Athletics have managed to rip off 10 straight wins and what that means for a surprisingly lively AL playoff race (41:16).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Teddy Cahill

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Do the Nationals Have It Worse Than the Mets Right Now? | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 21 May 2019 21:35:55 -0000

We go over the nose-diving Nationals, who are now nine games under .500 with seemingly no answers for how to get better (1:20), before putting it into context with their division rivals, the Mets, and why it always seems like the sky is falling in on them even though they’re only slightly below expectations this season (21:05). Finally, we finish by going over the long-standing criticism of Robinson Canó and why it’s a tired argument that’s only propped up by the New York media (39:02).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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Will Madison Bumgarner Be Dealt at the Deadline This Year? | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 14 May 2019 22:05:54 -0000

After the teams on Giants ace Madison Bumgarner's no-trade list were revealed, we speculate about whether that means he’ll get traded or not—and whether it’ll be to a contender (1:52). Then, Baseball Prospectus managing editor Craig Goldstein joins to talk about the statistical outlier seasons of the Dodgers’ Alex Verdugo and Hyun-Jin Ryu (20:15). Finally, Ben Lindbergh closes out the podcast by sharing some of the highlights from his piece on home run robberies and putting into perspective just how bad the Marlins’ 2019 season has been so far (40:05).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Craig Goldstein

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The Return of Ohtani and the Rise of the Twins | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 07 May 2019 21:06:02 -0000

We bounce around the leading headlines from the past week, including the return of Shohei Ohtani and the Boston Red Sox's divided clubhouse (1:30). Then, Baseball Prospectus editor-in-chief Aaron Gleeman joins the show to break down how the Twins have leap-frogged Cleveland in the AL Central (25:00). Finally, we wave goodbye to our preseason optimism for the Reds and wonder how they’re playing well but still losing games (45:35).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Aaron Gleeman

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Vlad Guerrero Jr. Is Here, and We Are More Than Ready | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 30 Apr 2019 20:38:07 -0000

We hand out some early-season MLB superlatives (2:45), before discussing the Blue Jays’ recent call-up of Vlad Guerrero Jr.—baseball’s top prospect (26:08). Then Ben Lindbergh closes the show out by joining to theorize what might happen to baseball if ‘Avengers: Endgame’ were real life and we lost half the crop of MLB players (43:30).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Katie Baker

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The Yankees' IL Might Be the Best Team in the League | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 23 Apr 2019 22:23:29 -0000

Christian Yelich and Cody Bellinger are off to almost unfathomably hot starts. Are their performances sustainable, lucky, or a little bit of both (1:49)? Then, with the Tim Anderson suspension, MLB proves that it never runs out of creative ways to step on its own feet (23:10). Finally, the Yankees are experiencing a rash of injuries we thought wasn’t possible, yet they remain over .500 and in contention for the AL East—how have they done it (32:45)?

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Tyler Tynes

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Rays vs. Astros: Who’s the Best Team in Baseball Right Now? | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 16 Apr 2019 21:10:01 -0000

We mull over Zach Kram’s preseason prediction that the Tampa Bay Rays would win the AL East and wonder: Should that prediction be expanded (2:20)? Then, The Athletic's Astros beat writer, Jake Kaplan, calls into the show to talk about the slow start and resurgence of Houston, the most-stacked team in baseball (21:30). Finally, Ben Lindbergh joins the show to recap last week’s Ozzie Albies extension (36:30).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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The Red Sox Have a Chris Sale Problem | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 09 Apr 2019 22:25:44 -0000

The Red Sox haven’t gotten off to the start they hoped after steamrolling their way to a World Series victory last October (4:15), while the Mariners have—against all odds—seemingly stolen their thunder (23:30). Plus, which preseason predictions look correct, and which have we already soured on (40:20)?

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Meg Rowley

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Ronald Acuña Jr.'s Extension, Plus Bryce Harper’s Welcome Tour | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 02 Apr 2019 20:43:22 -0000

The Braves signed Ronald Acuña Jr. to one of the most team-friendly long-term deals in recent memory (1:30), and we wonder whether the Cleveland Indians’ bad first weekend and shallow lineup mean that 2019 isn’t going to be the cakewalk we all thought it’d be (8:41). Then The Athletic’s Meghan Montemurro joins to share an insider’s take on Bryce Harper’s loud, successful first week in Philadelphia (20:00). Finally, are the Padres the most exciting team in baseball (36:03)?

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Meghan Montemurro

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Jacob deGrom’s Extension and 2019 Fake Prop Bets | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 26 Mar 2019 23:21:03 -0000

We weigh the Jacob deGrom contract against the extensions of Chris Sale, Justin Verlander, and Kyle Hendricks (2:00). Then, we run through our annual fake prop bets to preview the upcoming 2019 season (19:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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Mike Trout’s $430 Million Contract, Plus Over/Under Bets for All 30 Teams | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 19 Mar 2019 21:25:17 -0000

We react to Mike Trout agreeing to the largest contract in North American sports history, and posit that it probably doesn’t even amount to what he’s actually worth to the Angels (1:40). Then, we run through all 30 teams, division by division, and give our predictions for whether they’ll go over or under their predicted win totals in the Las Vegas sports books (30:08). Finally, we give a few enticing futures bets for the 2019 season (63:55).

Hosts: Michael Baumann and Zach Kram

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Texas–St. Louis World Series Game 6, 2011: A Special Sports Rewatchables | The Ringer MLB Show

Thu, 14 Mar 2019 10:00:00 -0000

Michael Baumann is joined by Mallory Rubin to discuss Game 6 of the 2011 World Series in a special 'MLB Show'–'Rewatchables' crossover. The two break down how different baseball looked just eight years ago, the managerial blunders that potentially altered baseball history, the mythmaking performance of David Freese, and more.

Hosts: Michael Baumann and Mallory Rubin

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How Has Pitcher Usage Fundamentally Changed the Game We Love? | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 12 Mar 2019 21:14:58 -0000

We run through some of the news of the past week—including a two-pound chicken tender being offered at the Texas Rangers’ stadium, Vlad Guerrero Jr. getting injured, and Adam Jones finally landing with the Arizona Diamondbacks (2:00). Then, in the final installment of our preseason trend series, we discuss the ways that pitch speed and selection, as well as pitcher usage, training, and health have drastically altered the way baseball is played in just the past five years (32:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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The Bryce Harper Welcome Tour and Marc Normandin on Labor Relations in MLB | The Ringer MLB Show

Tue, 05 Mar 2019 22:34:23 -0000

With a few more days to process the news and observe how Bryce Harper is being received in Philadelphia, we go deep on the structure of his contract, the immediate returns on ticket and merchandise sales, and the now-stacked NL East (2:20). Then, Marc Normandin joins the podcast to discuss the current state of labor relations between players and owners, what the future holds for the next CBA negotiations, and the history of owner collusion that led us to this point (38:16).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Zach Kram, Ben Lindbergh

Guest: Marc Normandin

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Bryce Harper to the Phillies Emergency Podcast | The Ringer MLB Show

Fri, 01 Mar 2019 01:15:33 -0000

After months of speculation, Bryce Harper has finally signed with the Philadelphia Phillies, to the tune of 13 years and $330 million—the most total money for a contract in MLB history. We give our immediate reactions to the length of the contract, the backlash, the Phillies' team-building strategy, and more.

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Zach Kram

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Nolan Arenado's Rockies Extension and Rob Arthur on Data in Baseball | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 170)

Tue, 26 Feb 2019 22:05:51 -0000

We take a look at Nolan Arenado’s eight-year, $260 million deal with the Colorado Rockies and the recent run of extensions this offseason — including Aaron Hicks and Miles Mikolas (3:42). Then freelance journalist and data consultant Rob Arthur joins the show to talk about how fast analytics are changing in baseball, how accurate our assumptions about players are, and what this might mean in the future for the on-field product and front-office decision-making (37:22).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

Guest: Rob Arthur

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Manny Machado Is a San Diego Padre. All It Took Was $300 Million. | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 169)

Wed, 20 Feb 2019 02:16:28 -0000

We reconvene the 'MLB Show' to discuss the biggest move of the offseason: Manny Machado's breaking the hot stove dry spell by signing the largest free-agent contract in baseball history.

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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The Mariners Go Back-to-Back With Blockbusters to the Mets, Phillies | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 168)

Tue, 04 Dec 2018 03:08:17 -0000

We break our hiatus to discuss the Mariners selling their roster pieces off. First, Robinson Canó and Edwin Diaz to the Mets for Jay Bruce, Anthony Swarzak, and prospects (1:00). Then, Jean Segura and two relievers to the Phillies for J.P. Crawford and Carlos Santana (14:00).

Hosts: Michael Baumann and Zach Kram

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Early Offseason Roundup and MLB’s Messy Political Ties | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 167)

Wed, 28 Nov 2018 00:03:00 -0000

Josh Donaldson lands in Atlanta (2:20), most teams in the league are looking to blow it up (11:40), and Kyler Murray has a big decision to make (28:25). Then, where did MLB go wrong with Cindy Hyde-Smith and what does it do from here? (39:10).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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The Great James Paxton Debate | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 166)

Tue, 20 Nov 2018 21:11:54 -0000

Is Paxton the top-10 pitcher the Yankees need? Plus, Adrián Beltré's two-decade career has come to an end, assessing the state of the Cy Young and MVP races, and wondering what the hell is going on on Bryce Harper’s head.

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Parsing the Allegations Against the Mariners | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 165)

Tue, 13 Nov 2018 22:38:44 -0000

Dr. Lorena Martin’s accounts of sexism and racism inside the Seattle Mariners front office (2:03), some early offseason trades (14:11), Rookie of the Year (29:22), and Joe Mauer sailing off into the sunset (46:22).

Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram

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Where Do We Want the Top Free Agents to Go? | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 164)

Tue, 06 Nov 2018 23:54:49 -0000

A rapid-fire look at offseason news headlines — including Clayton Kershaw re-upping with the Dodgers and the Mets hiring Brodie Van Wagenen to be their GM (3:07). Then, a breakdown of the notable free agents and where they fit best (33:44).

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The Red Sox Have Won Their Fourth World Series of the Century | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 163)

Mon, 29 Oct 2018 21:20:58 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by fellow staff writers Ben Lindbergh and Zach Kram to discuss the ease with which Boston dispatched Los Angeles to win its fourth World Series of the century (1:30). Then, the three discuss what this means for generational ace Clayton Kershaw and the Dodgers going forward (40:32).

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The Red Sox Have Taken Control of the World Series | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 162)

Fri, 26 Oct 2018 01:24:39 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by fellow staff writers Ben Lindbergh and Zach Kram to discuss the dominance of the Red Sox lineup through Games 1 and 2 of the World Series (1:15). Then, the trio discuss some leaguewide hiring news, including the three managerial hirings and the Mets’ GM search (44:26).

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The 2018 World Series Preview | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 161)

Mon, 22 Oct 2018 21:03:41 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Ben Lindbergh and Zach Kram to look back at the Dodgers’ triumph over the Brewers in the NLCS (2:26) and discuss the most prominent upcoming storylines of the World Series (12:42). Then they give their World Series predictions and MVP picks (47:06).

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The Red Sox Have Flipped the Script. Will the Dodgers Meet Them in the Fall Classic? | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 160)

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 20:58:56 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by fellow staff writers Ben Lindbergh and Zach Kram to break down Game 6 (and possibly 7) of the NLCS (1:18). Then, the three give a postmortem on their “Astros in five games” prediction (30:00).

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Playoff Kershaw Is Snakebitten Again, Plus the Red Sox Are Still Alive in the AL | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 159)

Mon, 15 Oct 2018 21:12:43 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Ben Lindbergh and Zach Kram to discuss another substandard playoff start from Clayton Kershaw, Dave Roberts’s strange roster choices, and a shaky Brewers bullpen (1:53). Then, they wonder whether Red Sox ace Chris Sale can get over a stomach illness that dampened his Game 1 start, and whether the Red Sox offense can keep the team alive in Houston (35:13).

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Is the World Series Headed For a Rematch? Previewing the Championship Series | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 158)

Thu, 11 Oct 2018 23:52:19 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Ben Lindbergh and Zach Kram to predict storylines and key players for the AL and NL Championship Series, including whether the Red Sox stand a chance against the juggernaut Astros (8:40), and whether Milwaukee’s vaunted bullpen will look human against a deep Dodgers lineup (27:26).

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Red Sox–Yankees ALDS Recap With Bill Simmons and JackO | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 157)

Wed, 10 Oct 2018 17:32:41 -0000

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons gleefully calls his buddy JackO, a Yankees fan, to discuss Boston's win over New York in the 2018 ALDS.

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The Red Sox vs. Yankees Power Shift, Plus Can the Dodgers Be the Brewers’ Kryptonite? | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 156)

Tue, 09 Oct 2018 21:24:34 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Ben Lindbergh and Zach Kram to discuss the shortcomings of Yankees manager Aaron Boone against his counterpart Alex Cora (2:25). Then, they recap the disappointing performance gaps in the NL Division Series and wonder whether the Dodgers and Brewers will match up more evenly (28:33).

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AL and NL Division Series Previews | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 155)

Thu, 04 Oct 2018 19:17:17 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Zach Kram to break down the NL division series matchups between the Braves and Dodgers and the hipster-baseball-fan series of the year, the Brewers and Rockies (1:11). Then Ben Lindbergh comes on to share his experience at the wild-card game at Yankee Stadium (26:00) and give predictions on how the AL division series will unfold (27:30).

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Wild-Card Previews and Tiebreaker Madness | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 154)

Tue, 02 Oct 2018 03:32:02 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann brings on Zach Kram to talk about how the Athletics aren’t as much of an underdog against the Yankees in the AL wild card as some might think (1:47). Then, Ben Lindbergh joins to discuss the Brewers-Cubs and Rockies-Dodgers tiebreakers as well as how the ensuing wild-card game between the Cubs and the Rockies will shake out (24:14).

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The All-Ringer Team | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 153)

Tue, 25 Sep 2018 21:01:32 -0000

Ringer staff writers Michael Baumann and Zach Kram discuss the players who most excited and fascinated the Ringer staff in 2018, including Shohei Ohtani and Matt Chapman (1:53). Then, Ben Lindbergh hops on to discuss the story lines from this season we’ll remember most (38:42).

New York and Boston Go Nuts, and We Go Nuts About Shohei Ohtani | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 130)

Sam Miller: The Year That ... : Finding the single memory that defines each baseball season since 1903

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Listener Questions, Interleague Play, and Finding Joy in September Baseball | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 152)

Tue, 18 Sep 2018 22:16:24 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Zach Kram to talk about reasons to enjoy baseball even if your team isn’t in the pennant race (2:10). Then producer Bobby Wagner steps in front of the microphone to join Baumann in fielding listener questions during a special mailbag segment (19:41). Finally, Ben Lindbergh jumps in to discuss the National League’s best interleague performance in 15 years, and how the balance of power has shifted (40:56).

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The Brewers’ Hot Pursuit of the Cubs in the NL Central | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 151)

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 22:01:10 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Ringer senior editor Ryan O’Hanlon to talk about the Milwaukee Brewers’ dogged pursuit of the first-place Cubs as well as how to judge how tight a playoff race is (1:56). Then staff writer Ben Lindbergh weighs in on the NL East race and the potential effects of bad weather on baseball down the stretch (29:11).

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Bold Predictions For September | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 150)

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 22:34:13 -0000

In this episode, Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann solicits bold predictions for the MLB stretch run. Zach Kram joins the show to talk about the Tampa Bay Rays’ chase for the AL wild card (0:00), Claire McNear predicts that Bryce Harper will put one last exclamation point on his Nationals career (16:00), and Ben Lindbergh talks about Jacob deGrom’s historically low win total and how it might help him win the NL Cy Young Award (26:00).

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Ranking the Playoff Races and Getting Wonky With WAR | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 149)

Tue, 28 Aug 2018 22:38:01 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Zach Kram to draft the eight MLB playoff races and rank them from most to least interesting (2:30). Then Ben Lindbergh joins the show to talk about Aaron Nola’s weird statistical season, how WAR and advanced defensive metrics work, and the state of public sabermetrics (32:30).

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The Cards, the Kids, the Chaos | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 148)

Tue, 21 Aug 2018 23:05:01 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Zach Kram to discuss the St. Louis Cardinals, who are resurgent under new manager Mike Shildt, and their exciting rookie center fielder Harrison Bader (1:20). Then Little League World Series superfan Mark Titus joins the show to discuss the action in Williamsport (22:10) before Ben Lindbergh closes the episode with a look at how the much-discussed all-or-nothing approach to team building has affected the MLB pennant races (36:18).

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Go West and Players Weekend | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 147)

Tue, 14 Aug 2018 22:50:48 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann talks to Zach Kram about the surprisingly crowded NL West race, then goes over the highlights and disappointments of the Players Weekend nicknames and uniforms with Sean Yoo. Finally, Ben Lindbergh joins the show to break down where the AL West race stands in the aftermath of Seattle's sweep of the Astros.

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Playoff Odds, Fantasy Updates, and Lance Lynn | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 146)

Tue, 07 Aug 2018 23:42:58 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann talks to Shaker Samman about which teams make for enticing playoff-prop-bet candidates (01:00) and Danny Heifetz about players who might get your fantasy team over the hump (13:30). Finally, Ben Lindbergh joins the show, ostensibly to talk about the Yankees, but really to listen to Michael hoot and holler about Lance Lynn (35:00).

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The Trade-Deadline Roundtable | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 145)

Wed, 01 Aug 2018 02:41:36 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Bill Simmons, Zach Kram, and Ben Lindbergh to discuss all the action from a frenetic last day before MLB's non-waiver trade deadline. They talk about the Baltimore Orioles' two-week teardown, Chris Archer's trade to the Pirates, the balance of power between the two leagues, and how the day's transactions will shape the pennant race.

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Hand, Foot, and Mets Disease | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 144)

Tue, 24 Jul 2018 21:09:54 -0000

The Mets are having an exciting couple of weeks, so this week's show is a Metstravaganza. Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann brings on Zach Kram to talk about the recent Jeurys Familia trade and the potential Jacob deGrom trade (02:00). Editor-in-chief Sean Fennessey explains what the Wilpon ownership group is doing wrong, and what it's like to root for a team that can't get out of its own way (19:30). Finally, Ben Lindbergh speculates on where the franchise might head from here, and when the Mets might be competitive again (42:30).

Hosted by: Michael Baumann, Zach Kram, Sean Fennessey and Ben Lindbergh

Produced by: Jim Cunningham

Brought to you by: The Ringer Podcast Network

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More Machado Trade Rumors, a Night of Dingers, and the End of the Mike Matheny Era | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 143)

Tue, 17 Jul 2018 22:18:42 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann discusses the latest Manny Machado–to-the-Dodgers rumors with Zach Kram (02:00), then talks to Robert Mays about his beloved Chicago Cubs (21:30). Then Ben Lindbergh breaks down the ignoble end to Mike Matheny's tenure in St. Louis, with home run derby chat scattered throughout (36:00).

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All-Star Rosters and the Abyss in Baltimore and Kansas City | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 142)

Tue, 10 Jul 2018 23:09:34 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Zach Kram to discuss the All-Star rosters, including the snub of Rays lefty Blake Snell, and find out what works and what doesn't in the Midsummer Classic (01:00). Then Ben Lindbergh joins the podcast for a spirited conversation about the two worst teams in MLB, the Royals and Orioles, and how Baltimore ought to handle trade speculation about free-agent-to-be Manny Machado (23:00).

Hosted by: Michael Baumann, Zach Kram, and Ben Lindbergh

Produced by: Jim Cunningham

Brought to you by: The Ringer Podcast Network

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Unrest in Washington, Our Beloved Willians Astudillo, and Jon Gray's Puzzling Demotion | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 141)

Tue, 03 Jul 2018 20:33:30 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Zach Kram to discuss the Washington Nationals' brutal June and the Oakland Athletics' chances of breaking into the AL playoff race (01:15). Then Megan Schuster comes on the pod to talk about our staff's favorite player: Twins rookie utilityman Willians Astudillo (18:10). Finally, Ben Lindbergh explains why the Colorado Rockies just demoted their Opening Day starter, and how that demotion is even weirder than it looks (27:47).

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Landscape of a Trade Deadline, Matt Kemp's Return to Los Angeles, and the Lowly AL Central | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 140)

Tue, 26 Jun 2018 22:51:12 -0000

The Ringer's Zach Kram talks to Michael Baumann about trade deadline possibilities around the league (01:30) before "The Chief" Craig Gaines joins the show to discuss Matt Kemp and the resurgent Dodgers (19:00). Then, Ben Lindbergh discusses the Cleveland Indians' hold on the AL Central (36:30).

Credits:

Hosted by: Zach Kram, Michael Baumann, Craig Gaines, and Ben Lindbergh

Produced by: Jim Cunningham

Brought to you by: The Ringer Podcast Network

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David and Goliath in the AL West and Washington's Boring All-Star Game Uniforms | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 139)

Tue, 19 Jun 2018 22:58:52 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann talks about the red-hot Houston Astros with Zach Kram (01:15) and takes apart the newly released All-Star Game uniforms with Ringer designer Matt James (18:15). Finally, Ben Lindbergh joins the show to explain how a ragtag team out of Seattle is keeping pace with Houston's juggernaut (32:30).

Credits:

Hosted by: Michael Baumann, Zach Kram, Matt James, and Ben Lindbergh

Produced by: Jim Cunningham

Brought to you by: The Ringer Podcast Network

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Ohtani's Elbow, the Resurgent Giants, and a Surprisingly Civil DH Argument | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 139)

Tue, 12 Jun 2018 22:07:44 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Zach Kram, who lays out the implications of Shohei Ohtani's elbow injury and what it means for the Angels and baseball (01:30). Then Claire McNear discusses the surprisingly resilient Giants, who remain in the NL West hunt despite a slew of pitcher injuries (20:15). Finally, Ben Lindbergh defends his anti-DH stance and attempts to balance joy with efficiency (29:00).

Credits:

Hosted by: Michael Baumann, Zach Kram, Claire McNear, and Ben Lindbergh

Produced by: Jim Cunningham

Brought to you by: The Ringer Podcast Network

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Kershaw's Back, But Not For Long; Kyler Murray's Two-Sport Odyssey; and Jake Arrieta's Equine Metaphors | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 138)

Tue, 05 Jun 2018 22:49:05 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann attempts to shoehorn the MLB draft into numerous conversations: first with Zach Kram on Clayton Kershaw's latest injury, then with Rodger Sherman on why Oakland drafted Oklahoma quarterback Kyler Murray, and finally with Ben Lindbergh on the Phillies' rough weekend and the perils of the shift.

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What Jerry Dipoto Did, Gleyber Torres and the Youth, And Stop Disrespecting Mike Trout | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 137)

Wed, 30 May 2018 00:11:11 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Zach Kram to discuss the Denard Span–Álex Colomé trade and the Mariners' surprising staying power in the pennant race (02:30). Then Ben Glicksman comes on to talk about Yankees wunderkind Gleyber Torres (21:30), and Ben Lindbergh explains why—despite what you might have heard—Mike Trout is still the best player in baseball (37:15).

Credits:

Hosted by: Michael Baumann, Zach Kram, Ben Glicksman, and Ben Lindbergh

Produced by: Jim Cunningham

Brought to you by: The Ringer Podcast Network

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Bullpenning in Tampa Bay, a Youth Movement in Washington, and Big Heat in the NL Central | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 136)

Tue, 22 May 2018 22:14:38 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Zach Kram, who details the Tampa Bay Rays' innovative and controversial new pitching tactics (01:45). Then Claire McNear drops by to talk about Rich Hill's blisters and the league's latest teenage sensation, Nationals outfielder Juan Soto (20:15). Finally Ben Lindbergh makes a quick appearance—though not as quick as the fastballs of relievers Jordan Hicks and Josh Hader, who have made headlines this week for different reasons (33:00).

Credits:

Hosted by: Michael Baumann, Zach Kram, Claire McNear, and Ben Lindbergh

Produced by: Jim Cunningham

Brought to you by: The Ringer Podcast Network

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Cano's Suspension, Legalized Gambling, and the Electric Fernando Romero | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 135)

Tue, 15 May 2018 23:12:22 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Zach Kram to examine the impact of Robinson Cano testing positive for a banned diuretic, from how the 80-game suspension will hurt this year's Mariners to how it could hurt Cano's Hall of Fame chances (02:00). Then Ringer editor-at-large Bryan Curtis joins the podcast to talk about the Supreme Court's landmark ruling on sports betting, how it reflects on baseball's colorful history with gambling, and how it might change the way we talk about the game going forward (21:00). Finally, Megan Schuster explains what's so special about Twins rookie right-hander Fernando Romero and breaks down the bizarre start to the race for the AL Central (36:00).

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Baby Braves, Red Sox Go to New York, and Cratering Kershaw | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 134)

Tue, 08 May 2018 21:05:57 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann starts this week's show by joining Zach Kram to stare at the Braves' young stars in slack-jawed awe (01:55). He then talks Yankees-Red Sox and the star qualities of Luis Severino and Mookie Betts with Paolo Uggetti (22:25) before asking Ben Lindbergh if Clayton Kershaw is still the best pitcher in baseball (37:08).

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Corey Seager's Busted Elbow, Gerrit Cole's Mighty Arm, and Didi vs. Jeter | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 133)

Tue, 01 May 2018 23:53:05 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann wanted to talk to Zach Kram about the dominant Arizona Diamondbacks, but fittingly, the Dodgers overshadowed their rivals again by announcing that star shortstop Corey Seager is out for the season (03:00). Then he talks about Gerrit Cole's impressive April with Ringer editor Ben Glicksman (19:30), and Ben Lindbergh gives his thoughts on Yankees shortstop Didi Gregorius's power surge (33:45).

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Harper, Machado, and Trout Return to the Top, Manaea's No-Hitter, and Who Ya Got—Red Sox or Astros? | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 132)

Tue, 24 Apr 2018 22:37:42 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Zach Kram to talk about baseball's holy trinity leading the league in homers (02:00). Then, Rodger Sherman shares his proposal for what should happen to teams that get no-hit (20:30), and Ben Lindbergh breaks down the early AL favorites (32:30) and explains how throwing strikes ain't all it's been cracked up to be (44:30).

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Is It Time to Panic in Chicago and Washington? Has the Balance of Power Shifted in Los Angeles? And Is Kurt Suzuki the Best Catcher in Baseball? | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 131)

Wed, 18 Apr 2018 00:04:07 -0000

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Zach Kram to discuss the upside-down NL East (01:15) and NL Central races (10:00) then marvels at the Angels' hot start with Ben Lindbergh (21:15). Finally Ringer senior editor and staff contrarian Ryan "O'Headline" O'Hanlon joins the pod to talk about whether pitch framing is dishonorable (37:30) and whether Aaron Judge is still the worst player in baseball (46:15).

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New York and Boston Go Nuts, and We Go Nuts About Shohei Ohtani | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 130)

Tue, 10 Apr 2018 21:57:22 -0000

The Ringer's Michael Baumann talks to Zach Kram about the 8-1 Mets (01:45), then brings in Ben Lindbergh to marvel at Angels pitcher Shohei Ohtani's stellar week (16:00). Finally, Bill Simmons drops by to talk about Ohtani's unique star potential (30:45), the Red Sox (46:30), and the story lines that could make this regular season one to remember (53:00).

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Freaking Out in Philly, Ohtani's Debut(s), the State of the New York Empire, and the Astros' Two-Way Dominance | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 129)

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 22:48:22 -0000

The Ringer's Michael Baumann talks to Chris Ryan about rookie Phillies manager Gabe Kapler's creative bullpen use (01:00). Then he brings in Zach Kram to talk about Shohei Ohtani's debut(s) (16:00) and Sean Yoo to talk about the Yankees' return to Evil Empire status (28:15), before Ben Lindbergh closes with the Astros' new-look rotation (38:00) and the awkward timing of Yuli Gurriel's suspension (47:00).

You can find the official Ringer merch store here: http://bit.ly/ringershop

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Going Over (and Under) the 2018 Season | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 128)

Tue, 27 Mar 2018 23:42:28 -0000

Ringer writer Michael Baumann examines the Vegas win total over/unders for all 30 teams, featuring Zach Kram on the AL West (02:00) and NL Central (14:00), Claire McNear on the NL East (23:30) and NL West (29:45), and Ben Lindbergh on the AL Central (37:30) and AL East (44:15).

You can find the official Ringer merch store here: http://bit.ly/ringershop

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Roasting the 2018 Yankees With Bill Simmons and Jack-O | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 127)

Thu, 22 Mar 2018 04:00:00 -0000

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons links up with Jack-O to get ready for the 2018 baseball season by checking up on whom the Yankees have in their outfield (2:46) and surveying the starting lineup (13:40) before wrapping up the show with some spring 2018 prop bets (26:02).

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Missing Machado (Already), Shohei Ohtani Fantasy Watch, the Puzzling Mets, and Free-Agency Roundup | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 126)

Tue, 20 Mar 2018 21:10:05 -0000

The Ringer's Michael Baumann kicks off the 2018 baseball season by needling Mallory Rubin about Manny Machado's future in Baltimore (01:15) and chatting with Zach Kram about the unique problems that Shoehei Otani poses for fantasy baseball (08:30). Then Sean Fennessey joins the show to discuss the confusing and frustrating Mets (22:00) and Ben Lindbergh closes out the show with free-agency talk (34:30).

Read Claire McNear's article on the future of Bryce Harper and the Washington Nationals here: https://t.co/af1FgWUhxH

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The Early-Offseason Activity Roundup (Ep. 125)

Mon, 06 Nov 2017 19:49:35 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann catch up with a wave of early-offseason moves, including a quintet of managerial hirings and the emergence of a new model of manager (06:00), the players association's perplexing stance on Shohei Otani (27:30), the opt-in decisions of a trio of pitchers (and the extension of Justin Upton) (39:00), potentially era-ending option decisions regarding Andre Ethier, Ichiro Suzuki, and Jose Bautista, and the Yasmani Grandal trade market (49:00).

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The Astros’ Wait Is Over (Ep. 124)

Thu, 02 Nov 2017 18:02:33 -0000

The Ringer’s Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann discuss Game 7 of the World Series, dwelling on the Dodgers’ lack of timely hitting, Yu Darvish’s Series struggles, the argument that Clayton Kershaw should have started Game 7 instead, and how the Astros-Dodgers battle stacks up historically. Then they talk about the effectiveness of (and backlash to) tanking, how hard it is to win titles, whether teams can still become dynasties in baseball today, and how the Astros and Dodgers set up for the future (spoiler: pretty well).

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The World Series One-ups Itself and Shea Serrano (Ep. 123)

Mon, 30 Oct 2017 18:35:10 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann discuss the story lines and hangover from a historic World Series Game 5, including home runs and slick balls (04:30), Clayton Kershaw's renewed postseason struggles (11:30), bad (and depleted) bullpens (14:00), a series of incredible comebacks and unlikely events involving baseball's best teams and biggest stars (24:00), and Yuli Gurriel's deferred suspension (31:30). Then they bring on colleague and brand-new baseball writer Shea Serrano to discuss the experience of seeing Game 5 through the eyes of a newly minted Astros fan (40:00).

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The Astros and Dodgers Flip Out (Ep. 122)

Thu, 26 Oct 2017 21:57:05 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann go deep on Game 2 of the World Series, a classic tilt between the Astros and Dodgers. They dissect Dave Roberts's fateful decision to pull starter Rich Hill after four innings (02:45), then draft their favorite moments from the game (13:00), from the eight home runs (16:00) to the bat flips (18:00) to a series of bizarre outfield deflections (27:30). They conclude by discussing the Yankees' controversial decision to part ways with manager Joe Girardi (45:45).

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Championship Series Wrap and World Series Preview (Ep .121)

Mon, 23 Oct 2017 18:47:43 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann close the book on the championship series by reviewing the Astros' incredible curveball usage (and bullpen avoidance) in ALCS Game 7 (02:45), tipping their caps to the vanquished Cubs and Yankees (14:00), and discussing their top reasons to be excited about the World Series and explaining why the Dodgers-Astros matchup seems so even (21:00). They finish by reflecting on the dismissal of Dusty Baker and the managerial moves of the Mets, Tigers, and Red Sox (49:00).

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The Yankees' Comeback, the Dodgers' Dominance, and Problems With Playoff Managing (Ep. 120)

Thu, 19 Oct 2017 19:09:03 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann break down both championship series, starting with the Yankees' comeback from an 0-2 deficit to take a 3-2 lead over the Astros (05:00), the resurgence of Aaron Judge and Gary Sánchez (08:00), the atmosphere at Yankee Stadium (15:45), misleading momentum (19:30), and the Astros' issues on offense and in the bullpen (21:00). Then they discuss how the Dodgers have outplayed the Cubs en route to a 3-1 series lead (38:00) and how the Cubs saved themselves in Game 4 (43:30), and wrap up with a conversation about how postseason managing has evolved more quickly than some managers can handle (50:15).

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Astros Aces, Dodgers Bats, and Two 2-0 Series (Ep. 119)

Mon, 16 Oct 2017 19:05:50 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann discuss Ben's furtive baseball-watching on his wedding weekend (02:00), then break down both of the 2-0 championship series (05:00), beginning with the brilliance of Astros starters Dallas Keuchel and Justin Verlander (12:00), the riveting tag team of José Altuve and Carlos Correa (21:30), the exciting send-off Altuve gave Game 2 (25:00), and the offensive struggles of Aaron Judge and Gary Sánchez (27:30), and ending with the heroics of Yasiel Puig and Justin Turner (30:30), the latest backlash against Puig (42:30), the Cubs' faltering bullpen and Joe Maddon's flagging tactical reputation (48:00), and a discussion about which series is more likely to produce a comeback (52:00).

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Strasburg's Statement, the Yankees' Comeback, and Farrell's Firing (Ep. 118)

Thu, 12 Oct 2017 18:35:40 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann marvel at a sick Stephen Strasburg's brilliant performance in Game 4 of the NLDS (02:00) and condemn the macho culture that questioned his character before the start (10:00). Then they analyze the Yankees' unlikely recovery to beat Cleveland after trailing 2-0 in the ALDS (25:30), preview the Astros-Yankees ALCS (35:00), salute the three teams eliminated from the playoffs this week (48:30), and reflect on the firing of former Red Sox skipper John Farrell (49:30).

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Weekend Takeaways and the States of the Series (Ep. 117)

Mon, 09 Oct 2017 19:47:21 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann break down the weekend's playoff action, starting with Joe Girardi's curious relationship with the challenge and Aaron Judge's untimely slump (02:00), then David Price's emergence as Boston's only trustworthy pitcher (23:00) and Jose Altuve's .700-plus batting average (32:45). Then they wrestle with Clayton Kershaw's playoff reputation (37:45), whether Arizona is good enough to come back from a 2-0 deficit (42:00), and Joe Maddon's bullpen management in the Cubs' Game 2 loss to Washington (46:00).

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Ten Reasons to Get Excited for the Playoffs (Ep. 116)

Fri, 06 Oct 2017 10:00:00 -0000

The Ringer’s Mallory Rubin and Ryan O’Hanlon present the casual fan’s guide to baseball playoffs by explaining what they look forward to most in October (2:10). Plus, they are joined by The Ringer’s resident Cubs fan Robert Mays to chat about his team’s chances of repeating as the World Series champions (50:19).

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Wild-Card Recap and Division Series Setup (Ep. 115)

Thu, 05 Oct 2017 19:53:23 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk about their takeaways from the Yankees' and Diamondbacks' lengthy and eventful wins in the wild-card games, focusing on how those games may have given us a glimpse at what's in store for the rest of the playoffs (02:00). Then they preview all four division series matchups, with prop bets and predictions (13:00).

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The Playoff Preview Episode (Ep. 114)

Mon, 02 Oct 2017 19:57:08 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann celebrate the extension of Clayton Kershaw's ERA reduction streak (01:00), then bring on their colleague Zach Kram for a wide-ranging playoff preview, including thoughts on wild-card game formats and strategy (10:30), the lopsided nature of this year's wild-card matchups (22:15), whether there's such a thing as a way to win in the playoffs (25:00), which relievers and bullpens are best suited for heavy playoff workloads (32:00), which teams might be at a particular advantage or disadvantage in October (37:00), and which teams might produce the best stories this month (44:00).

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Difficult Awards Decisions and the Derek Jeter Regime (Ep. 113)

Thu, 28 Sep 2017 21:28:04 -0000

The Ringer’s Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter about Michael’s blasts-from-the-past Diamond Mind draft (0:20) and the White Sox broadcast crew’s beliefs about batting around (2:50), then discuss the evolution of BBWAA awards voting (0:00), why some of this season’s awards races are too close to call (5:35), and which players they would pick for MVP, Cy Young, and Rookie of the Year (11:10). Later, they bring back baseball historian, writer, and podcaster Steven Goldman to discuss ex-player precedents for Derek Jeter’s ascension to an ownership role with the Marlins (21:45), why the transition from beloved, legendary player to baseball-operations executive doesn’t always go smoothly (24:15), and whether the Marlins will be better off under the Jeter regime (29:50).

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Kneeling, Netting, and Otani (Ep. 112)

Mon, 25 Sep 2017 20:06:40 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter about the Nationals' 'Game of Thrones' cosplay (02:00), the Angels' possible salary manipulation (03:30), and the Rockies-Brewers wild-card race (07:00). Then they talk to Yahoo Sports columnist Jeff Passan about Oakland catcher Bruce Maxwell's decision to kneel during the national anthem (12:30), the debate about extending the netting at MLB ballparks (40:00), and the latest outlook for Shohei Otani's potential free agency (50:00). Lastly, they discuss a new baseball acronym and the stakes in Clayton Kershaw's last regular-season start (58:00).

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How to Savor September, and MLB's Home Run Future (Ep. 111)

Thu, 21 Sep 2017 17:22:39 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann begin by recounting the best listener-submitted nicknames for their guest on the previous episode, Blue Jays hit-by-pitch machine Nick Sinay (01:30). Then, with most of the pennant races decided, Ben and Michael list some of the best reasons to pay attention to the rest of regular-season baseball, from the few remaining playoff races to team records to individual accomplishments (04:00). Lastly, they bring on FanGraphs writer Travis Sawchik to discuss whether home runs will keep coming at record rates (30:30), and how the current high-home-run environment complicates scouting and team-building (41:00).

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Talking to a Hit-by-Pitch King (Ep. 110)

Mon, 18 Sep 2017 17:36:52 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann dissect the stats of Blue Jays minor leaguer Nick Sinay, one of the most hit-by-pitch-prone players of all time (02:15), and play a quick game of "Pitcher who's posted at least a 50 Game Score in the last 30 days or pop-punk/emo front man" (09:30). Then they bring on Sinay to find out why and where he gets hit so often (16:30), how many bruises he has (21:00), how he stays on the field despite getting plunked every other game (on average) (23:00), and whether his unique style of play can take him higher on the minor league ladder (30:00).

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The Unbeatable Team, Shohei Otani, and Baseball Meets 'Star Trek' (Ep. 109)

Thu, 14 Sep 2017 19:11:00 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann discuss Cleveland's record winning streak (02:45), the prospect of Shohei Otani signing with an MLB team this offseason (05:45), and the continued offensive excellence of the Phillies' Rhys Hoskins (10:30). Then, in a special Space Week crossover, they bring on Ira Steven Behr, former executive producer and showrunner of 'Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,' to reminisce about the origin, making, and legacy of the legendary 'Deep Space Nine' baseball episode, "Take Me Out to the Holosuite" (14:45).

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A Tale of Two Streaks (Ep. 108)

Mon, 11 Sep 2017 19:41:42 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk about the teams in the midst of baseball's worst of times and best of times, bringing on L.A. Times beat writer Andy McCullough to diagnose the slumping Dodgers (who've lost 10 in a row and 15 of 16) (03:00) and then MLB.com beat writer Jordan Bastian to discuss the unbeatable Indians (who've won 18 in a row and at least temporarily claimed the AL's best record) (36:00).

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Streaking, Slumping, and Sign-Stealing (Ep. 107)

Thu, 07 Sep 2017 18:38:32 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter about their enthusiasm for next month's probable playoff matchups (01:00), examine the significance (if any) of the Dodgers' slump and the Indians' and Diamondbacks' hot streaks (03:30), and discuss the Red Sox–Yankees sign-stealing scandal (18:30). Then they bring on longtime baseball scout and executive Tony Blengino for an insider's perspective on sign-stealing (26:00), whether baseball's prohibition on internet-connected devices in the dugout makes sense in an information-rich era (31:00), how the game might change if that ban is lifted (36:45), the state of grudges and gamesmanship between teams (46:00), and the future of scouting in the age of motion-tracking technology (48:45).

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The Mailbag Bats Around (Ep. 106)

Mon, 04 Sep 2017 10:00:00 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann answer listener questions about playoff chases, statistical milestones, award races, baseball terminology, and more, and try to repair their relationship after having their most vehement disagreement ever.

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15 Prop Bets for the Stretch Run (Ep. 105)

Thu, 31 Aug 2017 18:01:11 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter about Mariners GM Jerry Dipoto's latest trade (03:30), the MLB pitching debut of Astros rookie (and two-way college star) J.D. Davis (08:00), and Indians owner Paul Dolan's latest comments on Cleveland's logo (11:00). Then, they discuss 15 over/unders for the rest of the 2017 season and offer several pennant-race predictions (15:00).

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Stanton, Hoskins, and 'Game of Thrones' (Ep. 104)

Mon, 28 Aug 2017 21:38:01 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter about the hot home run streaks of Rhys Hoskins and Giancarlo Stanton (03:15), then talk to Pirates catcher Chris Stewart about 'Game of Thrones' and 'A Song of Ice and Fire,' his opinion on incest in Westeros (14:00), being baseball's biggest bookworm (20:00), whether any other series has the same cachet in the clubhouse (32:30), how he helps instill the Pirates' pitching philosophy in new acquisitions (35:00), his struggles to stay healthy as a big catcher in his mid-30s (42:30), his top book recommendations (44:45), and more. Lastly, Michael conducts a quick chat with another big 'Game of Thrones' fan, Nationals pitcher Shawn Kelley (48:00).

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Rich Hill, the Home Run Record, and the Evolution of Position Playing (Ep. 103)

Thu, 24 Aug 2017 17:28:09 -0000

The Ringer’s Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter about Rich Hill’s brilliant, heartbreaking, nine-no-hit-inning loss (0:35), Giancarlo Stanton’s comments about the single-season home run record (6:10), and why every record comes with caveats (8:10). Then, they talk to Baseball Prospectus writer Russell Carleton about how teams are abandoning traditional defensive alignments (12:40), why it’s becoming more common for players to play multiple positions (23:40), and whether techniques such as the four-man outfield, the Waxahachie Swap, and swapping corner defenders based on batter handedness make strategic sense (33:25).

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Outclassed Agents and the Future of Labor Relations (Ep. 102)

Mon, 21 Aug 2017 19:46:15 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter about the history of MLB players who've worn no. 69 (03:00), an incredible catch in the Junior League World Series (05:30), the Giants' official elimination from the NL West race (06:30), Aroldis Chapman's removal from the Yankees' closer role (08:00), and a short-lived umpire protest (11:00), then talk to R.J. Anderson of CBS Sports about the growing information gap between teams and agents and the future of labor relations in MLB (16:30).

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The Marlins Sale, Slugging Stanton, and the Hot Hand (Ep. 101)

Thu, 17 Aug 2017 17:06:04 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter about the four-man outfield that the Cubs deployed against Joey Votto (01:00), then discuss the reportedly proceeding sale of the Miami Marlins (05:30), the possible impending demise of the Marlins Park home run sculpture (07:30), Giancarlo Stanton's hot streak (11:00), and whether it makes sense for the Marlins to trade the face of their franchise (16:30). Then they bring on FiveThirtyEight writer Rob Arthur to talk about his recent research into the "hot hand" effect for pitchers and why his method succeeds in detecting and predicting hot streaks where so many previous statistical attempts have failed (24:00).

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Developing the Stacked White Sox System, and Girls Resisting Softball (Ep. 100)

Mon, 14 Aug 2017 18:51:18 -0000

On their centenary episode, The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter about Bryce Harper's bone bruise and the AL wild-card logjam (03:30), then talk to former big leaguer and current White Sox player development director Chris Getz about how he and the rest of the White Sox front office plan to turn baseball's best farm system into a winning major league team (11:30), how the organization decides when to promote players to the bigs (21:00), and what highly touted rookie Yoan Moncada still has to work on (38:30). Then they bring on Liz Roscher of Yahoo Sports to talk about the latest Baseball For All tournament (42:30), why more and more girls are resisting being forced to switch from baseball to softball (46:00), the continuing relevance of 'A League of Their Own' (48:45), and what the future holds for girls and women in baseball (54:00).

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Cold Judge, Hot Trout, and Player Nicknames (Ep. 99)

Thu, 10 Aug 2017 18:34:27 -0000

The Ringer’s Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter about an Angels team photo (1:15), the Mets-Indians Jay Bruce trade (2:00), and an Astros blooper (4:05). Then, they bring on ESPN’s Mark Simon to discuss how teams are attacking the slumping Aaron Judge (6:30) and Mike Trout’s continued dominance (15:50). After that, they welcome Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman of MLB.com and Cespedes Family BBQ to talk about the best and the worst player-chosen nicknames for the upcoming Players Weekend (27:45), and whether the event signals a thaw in baseball’s aversion to self-expression (44:55). Lastly, Ben and Michael discuss what Jerry Dipoto did (53:35).

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The Unstoppable Dodgers, A-Rod's Redemption, and More (Ep. 98)

Mon, 07 Aug 2017 22:08:21 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann discuss the leveling out of the infield shift (03:00); the significance of the Dodgers' pursuit of the all-time regular-season wins record (14:30), and the team's playoff outlook (22:00). Then they talk about the latest phase of the Alex Rodriguez redemption saga (32:00), a report about Dave Dombrowski being barred from trading Boston's top prospects (40:30), the Orioles' refusal to spend on the international market (49:00), and, with an assist from FanGraphs' Jeff Sullivan and Baseball Prospectus's Meg Rowley, a late-breaking update on what Jerry Dipoto did (55:00).

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'Stros of Today and Stars of Tomorrow (Ep. 97)

Thu, 03 Aug 2017 18:48:36 -0000

The Ringer's Michael Baumann is joined by Jake Kaplan from the Houston Chronicle to discuss Hall of Fame Induction Weekend in Cooperstown (03:00), a disappointing trade deadline for the Astros (05:00), Carlos Correa's return (11:15), and the truth behind the funeral for Carlos Beltrán's glove. Then, Eric Longenhagen of FanGraphs joins the show to talk about Mets shortstop Amed Rosario (23:00) and other late-season call-ups to keep an eye on (29:30).

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The Trade Deadline Dissected (Ep. 96)

Tue, 01 Aug 2017 10:00:00 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann celebrate Adrián Beltré's 3,000th hit and improbable Hall of Fame career path (04:00), then break down all the action on trade-deadline day, including the Dodgers adding Yu Darvish to their already-formidable rotation (10:00), the Yankees acquiring Sonny Gray and Jaime García (21:30), and other contenders (including the Red Sox, Indians, and Nationals) restocking their bullpens (25:00). They also discuss whether teams such as the Red Sox, Astros, and Orioles should have been more active (27:30), as well as the steep decline in the value of Jonathan Lucroy (38:30), who was traded at a second consecutive deadline, this time for a much smaller return.

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Hall of Fame Weekend and 'The Cooperstown Casebook' (Ep. 95)

Thu, 27 Jul 2017 17:47:13 -0000

On the eve of the Hall of Fame's annual induction ceremony, The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann bring on Sports Illustrated writer Jay Jaffe to discuss the future of Hall of Fame debates (06:00), how the Hall would be different if Jay could pick the plaques (12:00), several overlooked inductees and candidates (19:30), Adrián Beltré and the BBWAA's bias against third basemen (27:30), how the Hall should handle relievers (44:00), and Jay's new book, 'The Cooperstown Casebook' (48:00).

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Parity, Payroll, and Deadline Decisions (Ep. 94)

Mon, 24 Jul 2017 16:51:18 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann discuss the injuries that forced Clayton Kershaw and Stephen Strasburg to leave their Sunday starts early (02:30), then bring on FiveThirtyEight editor and senior sportswriter Neil Paine to talk about the unusual eliteness of 2017's top teams (10:30), how to evaluate whether a team should buy or sell at the trade deadline (16:00), the teams with the toughest buy/sell decisions this season (38:30), the best matches between contending teams and expendable players (41:00), and the outlook for Aaron Judge (43:30).

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Trade Season Starts Early (Ep. 93)

Thu, 20 Jul 2017 18:06:45 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter about the Astros' funeral for Carlos Beltrán's glove (01:15), the problem with baseball humor (02:30), and why teams aren't waiting for the deadline to make moves (05:30). Then they round up the news from a busy baseball week, including: the Yankees–White Sox trade (08:30); Yoan Moncada's promotion (18:30); the battle to be Chicago's best-looking third baseman (20:45); the Carlos Correa injury (22:15); Kris Bryant's close call (22:00); the pros and cons of headfirst slides (22:30); the J.D. Martinez deal (and why Detroit didn't get more) (30:00); the changing tenor of trade analysis (37:30); Orioles trade rumors (41:30); the red-hot Dodgers and Dodger Stadium naming rights (43:30); what constitutes a blockbuster (47:30); and, for the first time in months, what Jerry Dipoto did (51:30).

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The Truth About (the Original) Ty Cobb (Ep. 92)

Mon, 17 Jul 2017 16:21:25 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter about Freddie Freeman's performance at third base so far (00:30), the Nationals' trade for Sean Doolittle and Ryan Madson (02:00), and Matt Holliday's weekend baserunning adventure (06:15). Then, with "Ty Cobb" recently trending for a surprising reason, they talk to Charles Leerhsen, author of 'Ty Cobb: A Terrible Beauty,' about why the baseball legend was not the cruel, cutthroat racist he's widely believed to be (12:00), how that misconception started (26:30), and what we can learn from how hard it's been to debunk Cobb's bad reputation (49:30).

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The Quintana Trade and the Most Fascinating Rest-of-Season Storylines (Ep. 91)

Thu, 13 Jul 2017 19:52:36 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter about an All-Star idea (01:00) and the Cubs–White Sox José Quintana trade (04:30), then discuss several stories that are foremost on their minds as the All-Star break comes to a close, including close pennant races (13:30), the staying power of some early-season surprises (and some slow starters' comeback potential) (34:00), who'll do what at the trade deadline (40:30), and the competition for the most valuable individual season (51:00).

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Explaining the Unlikeliest All-Stars (Ep. 90)

Mon, 10 Jul 2017 18:07:04 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann bring on a series of writers (including Eric Stephen, Rustin Dodd, Dan Hayes, Andrew Stoeten, and Zach Buchanan) to explain the anomalous seasons of five veterans who are making their first trips to the All-Star Game: Alex Wood (04:15), Jason Vargas (15:15), Avisaíl García (28:00), Justin Smoak (40:30), and Zack Cozart (53:00). In the process, they also discuss the trade-deadline outlooks of the Dodgers, Royals, White Sox, Blue Jays, and Reds.

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Tyler Flowers, Framing, and the Robot Umps Debate (Ep. 89)

Thu, 06 Jul 2017 17:22:36 -0000

The Ringer’s Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter about All-Star selection philosophies (1:10) and then tee up Ben’s conversation with Braves catcher Tyler Flowers, an elite pitch framer who’s transformed himself offensively and has, by one measure, been one of the most valuable players in baseball this season (10:25). Then, they discuss whether Flowers’s framing skill is good or bad for baseball (36:55), the obstacles that still stand in the way of a computerized strike zone (42:35), and whether they’re pro-robot umps (45:00).

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Let the Trade Talk Begin (Ep. 88)

Mon, 03 Jul 2017 14:49:02 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann bring on Jeff Passan of Yahoo Sports to talk about the likely (and unlikely) buyers and sellers at this month's MLB trade deadline (01:00), what the contenders can do to address their weaknesses (13:00), the best bats and arms available (31:00), the impact that the massive 2018-19 free-agent classes could have on the market throughout the next year (45:00), and the latest on Japanese superstar Shohei Otani's MLB ETA (48:00).

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The First-Half Draft (Ep. 87)

Thu, 29 Jun 2017 16:29:02 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann discuss the Cubs' decision to DFA Miguel Montero (00:30) and the end of the College World Series (06:30), then draft 10 of their favorite stories from the first half of the 2017 regular-season schedule (plus honorable mentions) and forecast how they'll hold up over the rest of the season (10:00).

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The Dodgers, the Freeze, and Julio Urías (Ep. 86)

Mon, 26 Jun 2017 18:18:33 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann discuss a wild Dodgers win and the surprising longevity of weak-hitting Michael Martínez (05:30), then talk to superhero/sprinter/Braves grounds crew member Nigel Talton (a.k.a. "the Freeze") about becoming a between-innings phenomenon at SunTrust Park this season (09:30). Lastly, they bring on orthopedic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Dugas to discuss the season-ending injury to Dodgers phenom Julio Urías (25:15), the prognosis for his career and return (28:00), and why shoulder injuries have become less common among major league pitchers (32:30).

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Marly Rivera on the Lives of Latino Players (Ep. 85)

Thu, 22 Jun 2017 17:24:36 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk about Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman potentially moving to third (01:00), then bring on ESPN's Marly Rivera to discuss the Béisbol Experience project (06:00), why baseball's native Spanish speakers still aren't covered enough (09:30), the drawbacks and benefits of Latino players' paths to the majors (16:00), how teams are trying to make it easier for Latino players to learn English and adjust to American culture and food (20:00), differences among countries in off-the-field challenges and on-the-field playing styles (23:30), leadership questions and cultural cliques in the clubhouse (26:00), why baseball players rarely talk to the media (or each other) about politics (33:30), and more.

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Baseball Biomechanics and the Secrets of Statcast (Ep. 84)

Mon, 19 Jun 2017 18:24:29 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter about balding and baseball hairstyles (01:00), then bring on Kyle Boddy, founder of data-driven training facility Driveline Baseball, to talk about how independent instructors work with teams and college programs (03:45), how Boddy is trying to turn Driveline into baseball's DARPA (12:45), myths about baseball training (16:00), the future of biomechanics in baseball (24:00), and the latest on launch angle and spin rate (26:00). Then, they ask RotoGraphs writer and xStats founder Andrew Perpetua about Statcast's improvements and limitations (32:00) and how he uses Statcast stats to assess skill and project performance (34:00). They wrap up with a brief discussion about the struggle to stay curious about baseball (50:00).

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The Michael Baumann Battle (Ep. 83)

Thu, 15 Jun 2017 17:12:26 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk about Michael's recent power rankings (01:15) and Carlos Ruiz's pitching appearance (04:00), then bring on ... Michael Baumann, a college pitcher whom the Orioles just selected with the 98th overall pick in the amateur draft (05:00). Later, Ben and Michael (the first one) play a game of "Is This Reliever Currently Good?" (19:30) and end with an Aaron Judge Minute (42:00).

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Setting the Scene for the Amateur Draft (Ep. 82)

Mon, 12 Jun 2017 07:12:08 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk to FanGraphs lead prospect writer Eric Longenhagen about why this draft class is unusual, the class's strengths and weaknesses (02:30), the prominence of two-way players (10:00), the pros and cons of potential top pick Hunter Greene (12:00), which teams have the most at stake in this draft (19:30), how the first several picks are likely to play out (26:00), how much college reputations matter for player development (35:15), the influence of analytics (37:30), which draftees are the best bets to make their major league debuts first (41:15), the draft's unpredictability (44:00), and more.

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The Uneven Easts and Noah Syndergaard (Ep. 81)

Thu, 08 Jun 2017 19:52:01 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann discuss the AL East's historic strength (03:00) and the NL East's historic weakness (with a focus on the Phillies' stalled rebuild). They they speak to injured Mets starter Noah Syndergaard about his health (12:15), the Mets' struggles this season (15:00), his pitching approach (18:30), how he spends time in New York (27:00), and trends in home runs and strikeouts (30:00). Lastly, Ben and Michael talk about the incentives that often lead to injury for hard-throwing pitchers (34:00).

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When Albert Arrived (Ep. 80)

Mon, 05 Jun 2017 07:38:02 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter about college baseball (01:00), Reds reliever Michael Lorenzen's two-way opportunity (02:00), Jon Lester's triumphant pickoff throw (03:30), and Albert Pujols's 600th career homer (08:15). They then bring on longtime Cardinals executive John Vuch to talk about Pujols's origin story as a 13th-round draft pick (11:00), his rapid ascent to the majors (25:00), and his St. Louis peak (30:00).

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The Impervious Astros and the Rebuilding Reckoning (Ep. 79)

Thu, 01 Jun 2017 17:50:13 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter how poor pitcher hitting affects the DH debate (02:30) and Mike Trout's injury (06:00), then talk to The Crawfish Boxes managing editor Ryan Dunsmore about whether the streaking Astros have a weakness (11:15) and what they can do to distance themselves further from the field (14:15). Lastly, Ben and Michael discuss whether the success of the Astros and Cubs has overfly inflated fan expectations for rebuilding teams (38:20) and whether the current, copycat crop of rebuilders can count on such short paths to the playoffs (42:30).

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The Unfailingly Friendly Fly-Ball Debate (Ep. 78)

Mon, 29 May 2017 07:14:11 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk to FanGraphs writer/fly-ball believer Travis Sawchik and 'FiveThirtyEight' writer/fly-ball skeptic Rob Arthur about hitters who've broken out after aiming for the air (03:00), other hitters who've declined despite elevating their batted balls (13:00), how teams are trying to teach the uppercut swing (15:00), whether the "fly-ball revolution" explains the big leagues' record home run rate (24:00), and whether pitchers can counter batters' altered approach (33:00).

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Tom Verducci on the Curveball Comeback (Ep. 77)

Thu, 25 May 2017 18:58:43 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann start off with a quick edition of "College Baseball Player or Fictional Racing Driver" (02:30). Then they bring on Sports Illustrated senior baseball writer and Fox Sports/MLB Network analyst Tom Verducci to discuss his new SI cover story about the high-tech ways in which teams are evaluating breaking balls (04:30), why the curveball is becoming more common and disrupting traditional pitch-usage patterns (06:00), how an emphasis on spin rate could affect the pitcher-batter balance (18:00), and how Verducci reports on trends that teams could consider competitive advantages (28:45).

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The Red-Hot Rangers and Dissatisfied Stanton (Ep. 76)

Mon, 22 May 2017 16:49:05 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter about a fun fact and then talk to WFAA Rangers reporter Levi Weaver about how the irrepressible Rangers have won without big contributions from their projected best players and whether they can sustain their success (06:00). Then they bring on Sun Sentinel Marlins beat writer Tim Healey to discuss Giancarlo Stanton's vocal frustration with the state of his team (27:30), how his contract affects his future (30:30), and the Marlins' depressing prospects of success (46:00).

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MLB's Top Trio, a Returning Reliever, and an Unbeaten Streak (Ep. 75)

Fri, 19 May 2017 17:58:37 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann examine the adjustments that Clayton Kershaw, Mike Trout, and Bryce Harper have made this season to become even better (03:00). Then they bring on Royals reliever and injury trailblazer Seth Maness to talk about making it back to the big leagues after undergoing "primary repair," an alternative to Tommy John surgery that helped him get back on the mound much faster (16:00). Lastly, they talk to Robert Mosley, who set a record in MLB's Beat the Streak competition but fell just short of the ultimate goal (30:30).

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The Uncertain NL Central (Ep. 74)

Mon, 15 May 2017 19:02:36 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann shine a spotlight on the topsy-turvy and tightly compressed NL Central, talking to The Athletic Chicago's Sahadev Sharma about the surprisingly mediocre Cubs (03:00) and MLB.com's Adam McCalvy (25:30) and the Cincinnati Enquirer's Zach Buchanan (43:00) about the unexpectedly competitive Brewers and Reds, respectively.

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Moneyball Meets the Business of Baseball (Ep. 73)

Thu, 11 May 2017 17:10:09 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk to Red Sox executive vice president and chief financial officer Tim Zue about how teams are using data to optimize ticketing (05:00), marketing (12:00), concessions (36:00), the fan experience (39:00), and more, and the ways in which baseball business analytics are similar to and different from baseball operations analytics (51:30).

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The 'Pitch' Postmortem (Ep. 72)

Mon, 08 May 2017 17:38:11 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann and Baseball Prospectus writer Meg Rowley banter about Kris Bryant's double-play avoidance (03:00) and whether Giancarlo Stanton still inspires awe (07:00). Then they talk to 'Pitch' showrunner Kevin Falls about why Fox canceled the series (13:00), his attempts to revive the show or provide closure for fans (17:00), what did and didn't work in the first season (20:00), the challenges of making a TV show about sports (25:00), and what he had in mind for Season 2 (43:00).

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Manny Machado Madness Has Happened Before and Will Happen Again (Ep. 71)

Thu, 04 May 2017 18:33:42 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk to writer Steven Goldman of Vice Sports and FanRag Sports about historical precedents for the feud between the Orioles' Manny Machado and the Red Sox (4:07), whether bad blood (and bad behavior) among baseball players has gotten more or less common over time (31:48), and whether the beanball epidemic will ever end (40:30).

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Baseball's Latest DL Losses and Newest Nationalities (Ep. 70)

Mon, 01 May 2017 07:05:24 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter about big bullpens (02:30), high home run rates (06:00), injured Mets and fatalistic Mets fans (08:00), and the seasonlong losses of Adam Eaton and Shelby Miller (18:00). Then they bring on Pittsburgh Pirates Gift Ngoepe and Dovydas Neverauskas, who recently became the first players born in Africa and Lithuania, respectively, to make the majors (22:30). Lastly, Ben and Michael forecast which countries might be the next to send their first representatives to The Show (49:00).

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Geoff Blum and Mitchell Schwartz (Ep. 69)

Fri, 28 Apr 2017 02:58:57 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann bring on former big leaguer (and current Astros broadcaster) Geoff Blum to discuss his evolution in the booth (01:00), the Astros’ past, present, and future (03:30), the differences between playing for good and bad teams, and more (18:00). Then, they welcome Kansas City Chiefs offensive tackle Mitchell Schwartz to talk about his affinity for baseball (26:00), his thoughts on biometric monitoring of athletes (28:30), and the gaps between baseball and football in terms of physical strain (31:30), the strength of unions and security of contracts (42:30), the use of analytics (44:00), and the degree to which player performance is dependent on coaching (47:30).

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Five Teams in Trouble and LaTroy Hawkins on Race and Relieving (Ep. 68)

Fri, 28 Apr 2017 02:54:16 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann check in on the season’s high home run rate (01:30), talk about whether bullpens have gotten too big (03:30), and debate the fates of five teams that are off to rough starts this season (10:30). Then they bring on longtime big league pitcher LaTroy Hawkins to discuss data about the declining number of African American players (24:00) and the underrepresentation of black pitchers and catchers (31:30), as well as his thoughts on underrated major league cities (40:00), the keys to aging gracefully as an athlete (41:15), and the evolution of reliever usage (44:30).

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Ozzie Smith and Michael Lorenzen (Ep. 67)

Fri, 28 Apr 2017 02:38:34 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk to Hall of Fame shortstop Ozzie Smith about baseball’s rising strikeout rate (04:00), the current crop of talented young shortstops (10:00), the impact of shifting and data-driven defensive positioning (12:30), and the ascendance of advanced defensive stats (14:30). Then they bring on Reds reliever/pinch hitter Michael Lorenzen to talk about Cincinnati’s unorthodox free-flowing bullpen and quick-working staff (26:00), his history and preparation as a hitter (34:30), and his attempt to fill roles both in the bullpen and on the bench (38:30).

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Rick Ankiel and Chris Devenski (Ep. 66)

Fri, 28 Apr 2017 02:28:09 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann discuss the ingredients of a good baseball memoir (01:00), then bring on former major leaguer Rick Ankiel to discuss his new book, ‘The Phenomenon’ (05:00), his outfield conversion (09:00), his battle with the yips (11:00), and the improvement in baseball’s treatment of its players’ psyches (14:00). Then, they talk to Astros relief ace Chris ‘The Dragon’ Devenski about his unpredictable, multi-inning role (28:30), why he was underrated as a prospect (32:30), his filthy changeup and evolving slider (33:30), and his distinctive nickname (38:15).

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Ballpark Behavior and Baseball's Battle With Blisters (Ep. 65)

Fri, 28 Apr 2017 02:23:47 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter about the early season’s upside-down standings (02:00), toasted grasshoppers at Safeco Field (06:30), the etiquette of the wave (09:30), and how quickly you should quit on a closer (12:00). Then they bring on two dermatologists, Dr. John E. Olerud and Dr. Charles E. Crutchfield (15:00), to talk about how Dr. Olerud balanced pro baseball and medical school (16:00), possible remedies for Rich Hill’s seemingly unfixable blister (23:00), the dangers of sun exposure in sports (30:00), and how Botox is helping hitters (40:45).

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MLB Week 1 in Weirdness (Ep. 64)

Fri, 28 Apr 2017 02:08:02 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann discuss 10 of the strangest, most surprising, and most impressive events from the first week of the MLB regular season, including an epic battle between Mike Trout and King Félix (10:30), Jeremy Guthrie's disaster start (15:00), Yadier Molina's sticky-baseball blooper (29:30), and the Padres' unprecedented tanking (41:00).

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First-Week ‘Real or Not Real’ and April’s Statistical Lies (Ep. 63)

Fri, 28 Apr 2017 01:57:50 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann review a dozen developments from the first week of the season and analyze whether they're signs of things to come (02:00). Then they bring on Baseball Prospectus writer Rob Mains to talk about how April differs from the rest of the regular season (23:00) and how fans (and fellow writers!) can avoid being misled by early-season small-sample results (41:30).

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Hank Azaria on 'Brockmire' and Chipper Jones on 'Ballplayer' (Ep. 62)

Fri, 28 Apr 2017 01:54:48 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann bring on actor Hank Azaria to discuss spoofing baseball broadcasters (03:00), juxtaposing baseball and black comedy (10:00), explaining the sport's eccentricities (19:30), his reaction to a famous line from 'Heat' (22:45), and his new IFC TV series, 'Brockmire' (26:00). Then they call former MVP and future Hall of Famer Chipper Jones to talk about becoming baseball-obsessed (27:00), switch-hitting (34:20), playoff randomness (39:00), misbehaving away from the field (41:15), and his new book, 'Ballplayer' (43:15).

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Preseason Prop Bets and 'MLB the Show 17' (Ep. 61)

Mon, 27 Mar 2017 16:34:00 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann ask and answer 21 either/or and over/under questions about the upcoming season (01:30). Then they bring on Sony Interactive Entertainment America community manager and game designer Ramone Russell to talk about AI improvements (25:30), increased realism (29:00), and new modes in 'MLB the Show 17' (30:00), the choice of cover model Ken Griffey Jr. (40:45), and how much research into real baseball it takes to digitize the sport (44:30).

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Ep. 60: Prospect Conflicts and Baseball Punk

Mon, 20 Mar 2017 08:32:48 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk to Eric Longenhagen and Chris Mitchell from FanGraphs about the differences between the site's scouting-based and stats-based top-prospect lists and the highly ranked players who appear on the former but not the latter (02:00). Then they bring on Evan October and Justin Safely from Isotopes Punk Rock Baseball Club to discuss the band's origin story and songwriting process (27:00), baseball's punk-rock cred (34:00), and the Isotopes' new single, "Legend of George Brett," and forthcoming album, '1994 World Series Champions' (43:30).

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Ep. 59: Spring Training Travels and Misunderstood Stats

Mon, 13 Mar 2017 20:09:22 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann discuss whether MLB teams should limit the workloads of players on WBC teams (02:00), break down Michael's clubhouse interviewing technique (11:00), and comment on quotes from two players Michael talked to on his trip to Arizona (14:00), Rangers starter Cole Hamels (on aging and wearable sensors) and Indians outfielder Brandon Guyer (on getting hit by pitches). Then they bring on Economist editor Dan Rosenheck to talk about his study on the significance of spring training stats (27:50) and examine why earlier analysts came to incorrect conclusions about traditional baseball beliefs (35:00).

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Ep. 58: Corralling the Rule-Benders and Advance Scouting the WBC

Mon, 06 Mar 2017 06:59:40 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk to baseball columnist and historian Steven Goldman about the new so-called Carter Capps and David Price rules (04:00), the evolution of the pitching motion (04:40), and past examples of rule changes prompted by a specific player, person, or event (07:10). Then they bring on journalist Octavio Hernández to discuss his statistical work for the World Baseball Classic (23:55), how big the WBC is in Venezuela (28:10), and how the top teams stack up (39:05).

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Ep. 57: Baseball's Rule-Fixing Fixation and the Newest Two-Way Player

Tue, 28 Feb 2017 00:36:50 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk to MLB.com columnist Joe Posnanski about his new job as a full-time baseball writer (01:45), his hatred for the intentional walk (04:50), the automatic IBB rule (5:50), and why baseball fans are so attached to rules and resistant to change (12:55). Then they bring on Padres super-utility player Christian Bethancourt to discuss his conversion from catcher to two-way player who catches, pitches, and plays all over the field (27:25).

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Ep. 56: How Big Leaguers Are Living the Fly Life

Mon, 20 Feb 2017 21:39:11 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk to Dodgers setup man Grant Dayton about being a 28-year-old rookie, his whirlwind success in 2016, his fascinating whiffs-and-flies fastball, and how a move from the Marlins to the Dodgers helped him embrace his unconventional pitching approach (0:35). Then they bring on hitting instructor Doug Latta to discuss working with big leaguers without being employed by an MLB team, reinventing Justin Turner, and why the uppercut, fly-ball-oriented swing is replacing an outmoded belief in "hitting down on the ball" (23:50).

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Ep. 55: A Stat-Savvy Closer With Glen Perkins

Mon, 13 Feb 2017 19:13:44 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann play "College Baseball Player, Figure From American History, or Nicolas Cage Character?" (02:40) and talk to Twins pitcher Glen Perkins about his return from a torn labrum (09:45), embracing advanced stats (18:00) and preaching sabermetrics to teammates (30:30), reliever valuation and usage (33:30), and setting an entrance-song trend (38:24).

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Ep. 54: Baseball in the White House and a Rebuilt Reliever

Mon, 06 Feb 2017 08:12:48 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk to former White House press secretary Josh Earnest about his Royals fandom (03:20), following baseball in the White House (13:55), President Obama's trash talk (15:30), sticking (or not sticking) to sports (20:15), MLB's PR approach (24:00), the Cardinals hacking scandal (28:50), and his plans for the future (32:35). Then they bring on veteran big league reliever Craig Breslow to discuss how he used statistics and technology to emulate other relievers (36:25) and reinvent himself at the age of 36 (53:50).

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Ep. 53: Jerry Dipoto and the Next Steps for Statcast

Mon, 30 Jan 2017 05:58:47 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann produce one last edition of 'What Did Jerry Dipoto Do?' with Mariners GM Jerry Dipoto (01:08), who dishes on trading tactics (03:43), GM etiquette (08:58), communicating with players (12:22), and jet lag (28:58). Then Ben and Baumann talk to MLB.com writer Mike Petriello about Statcast's progress (34:45), the fragile balance of pitcher-batter power (45:45), and coping with Coors Field (47:43).

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Ep. 52: The New Stats That Help Explain Surprising Pitching

Mon, 23 Jan 2017 05:40:56 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann remember Yordano Ventura (01:32) and talk to Baseball Prospectus writers Jeff Long and Jonathan Judge about their new attempts to quantify how some pitchers use command (04:53) and 'tunneling' to achieve more success than their raw stuff would suggest (24:46). Lastly, Ben and Michael discuss how stats have changed the way we talk and write about baseball (50:49) and bring back BP's Meg Rowley for an abbreviated edition of "What Did Jerry Dipoto Do?” (56:07).

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Ep. 51: More Mariners Moves and an Elbow Bellwether

Mon, 16 Jan 2017 05:13:44 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann bring back Baseball Prospectus writer Meg Rowley for a second round of "What Did Dipoto Do?" after another active week for the Mariners GM (1:46). Then they talk to orthopedic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Dugas about a pivotal test of a new procedure that could repair pitchers' elbows much more quickly than Tommy John surgery (12:20). Lastly, they discuss the news that college coaches are considering equipping catchers with headsets to improve the pace of play (41:49).

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Ep. 50: A Winter on Waivers, Free-Agent Trout, and Dipoto's Deals

Mon, 09 Jan 2017 05:06:35 -0000

Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk to Cubs pitcher David Rollins about changing teams five times in 36 days (01:25). Then they bring on FanGraphs writer Nathaniel Grow to discuss a legal loophole that could make Mike Trout a free agent before his contract expires (13:43). Lastly, they talk to Baseball Prospectus writer Meg Rowley about Jerry Dipoto's latest trades (29:31), the Mariners' strange rotation (35:57), and Edgar Martinez's Cooperstown case (43:33).

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Ep. 49: The Statistical Trends of 2016

Mon, 02 Jan 2017 05:44:25 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann bring on writers/analysts Jeff Sullivan (2:30), Rob Arthur (14:42), Corinne Landrey (26:40), Gerald Schifman (36:08) and Jeff Zimmerman (47:10) to discuss their recent research into several sabermetric subjects that yielded new insights in 2016, including catcher framing, defense and Statcast, the positional spectrum, competitive balance, and injuries.

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Ep. 48: All Aboard the Raines Train

Mon, 19 Dec 2016 21:38:10 -0000

Inspired by ‘Rogue One,’ The Ringer’s Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann pick the former players they’d like to see CGI’d back into their primes. Then they bring on Jonah Keri of CBS Sports to discuss his Hall of Fame philosophy and stump for Tim Raines. Lastly, they talk to WHOOP CEO Will Ahmed about the results of a large-scale study in which minor league players wore his company’s fitness tracker when they weren't on the field.

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Ep. 47: Sandy Alomar Jr. on Pennant Wins, World Series Losses, and Tito Bombs

Mon, 12 Dec 2016 07:46:10 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk to Cleveland Indians coach and former longtime catcher Sandy Alomar Jr. about his team's 2016 playoff run (4:31), his two tough World Series losses, leadership and diversity in the dugout (7:18), the 1990s Indians' crazy clubhouses (10:47), manager Terry Francona's disgusting gum-chewing (35:23), and more.

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Ep. 46: Winter Meetings Madness and the Offseason's Most Surprising Signee

Thu, 08 Dec 2016 17:59:42 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann break down the biggest winter meetings moves, including the Chris Sale and Adam Eaton trades, the White Sox's prospect windfall, what the signings and trades involving closers Aroldis Chapman, Mark Melancon, and Wade Davis mean for the closer market, and the Ian Desmond deal. Then they bring on new Brewers first baseman Eric Thames to discuss his improbable journey from the big leagues to Korea and back.

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Ep. 45: McCutchen on the Move (Maybe) and a CBA Breakdown

Fri, 02 Dec 2016 18:10:46 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann appraise Andrew McCutchen's trade value (3:49) and assess the wisdom of a recent flurry of signings and trades by the Braves (12:50). Then they bring on Jeff Passan of Yahoo Sports to discuss the competitive ramifications of baseball's new collective bargaining agreement (18:49) and predict how long labor peace will last (40:15).

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Ep. 44: Hall of Fame Forecast and the Astros' Alex Bregman

Tue, 22 Nov 2016 23:51:54 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann put in a plug for 'Pitch' and talk Hall of Fame with Sports Illustrated writer Jay Jaffe (5:25), discussing the new and returning candidates on this year's ballot (6:13)and Jaffe's forecast for the 2017 Cooperstown class (32:30). Then, they bring on Astros infielder Alex Bregman to talk about his rapid rise to the majors (36:05), the changes he made to his swing before and after overcoming his slow start in the big leagues (39:35), and his outlook for next season (46:32).

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Ep. 43: Trout Talk, Houston's Hot Stove, and Brian Dozier Dishes

Fri, 18 Nov 2016 18:28:33 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann react to Mike Trout's deserved (but still surprising) MVP Award win (4:50) and the Astros' active start to the offseason (11:45). Then, they bring on Twins second baseman Brian Dozier to discuss how the heck he hit 42 homers (16:50).

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Ep. 42: Reluctantly Lighting the Hot Stove

Mon, 07 Nov 2016 05:12:58 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann discuss the tough transition to the offseason, Theo Epstein's next challenge (3:22), and whether the playoffs are too different from the regular season (8:25). Then they bring on MLB Trade Rumors founder Tim Dierkes to talk about the weak free-agent class (12:25), how CBA uncertainty might affect the market (29:41), and the prospect of record contracts for relievers (39:27).

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Ep. 41: The Cubs (The Cubs!) Just Won the World Series

Thu, 03 Nov 2016 18:47:52 -0000

In the aftermath of the Cubs' World Series win, The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk to their colleague Robert Mays about Cubs fans' euphoria (3:00). Then, Ben and Michael draft and discuss their favorite moments from an unforgettable Game 7 (15:00).

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Ep. 40: Kevin Burkhardt Brings Home the Hardware

Tue, 01 Nov 2016 19:16:34 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann recap Michael's trip to Wrigley Field and the Indians' approach against the Cubs' Jon Lester and Javier Báez. Then, they bring on Fox broadcaster Kevin Burkhardt (13:05) to talk about anchoring a panel filled with former superstars, Alex Rodriguez's TV preparation and rapport with Pete Rose, Frank Thomas's imposing size on set, and how to make a postgame show go viral.

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Ep. 39: The World Series so far and the Cubs' Mental Skills

Thu, 27 Oct 2016 21:13:09 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann recap the first two games of the 1–1 World Series. Then, they bring on the director of the Cubs' mental skills program, Joshua Lifrak, and the team's mental skills coordinator, Darnell McDonald, to discuss how the organization is teaching its players meditation techniques to cope with the stresses of major (and minor) league life.

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Ep. 38: Two Title Droughts Enter, One Title Drought Leaves

Mon, 24 Oct 2016 18:51:41 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann preview the upcoming Cubs-Indians World Series matchup from every possible angle with help from Sahadev Sharma, a Cubs reporter for The Athletic Chicago, and MLB.com Indians beat writer Jordan Bastian.

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Ep. 37: The Playoff Futures Draft

Fri, 21 Oct 2016 21:32:45 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk about the Dodgers' subtle scoreboard trolling and rank this year's playoff teams, and 10 more that missed the cut, in order of how likely they are to make the postseason in 2017. Then, they talk to a real-life Indians fan, Ringer staff writer Rob Harvilla, about his expectations and emotions on the eve of Cleveland's first World Series appearance in almost 20 years.

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Ep. 36: Playoff Tactics Talk

Tue, 18 Oct 2016 20:27:03 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk about Trevor Bauer's bleeding, the resurgence of short-rest postseason starts (02:10), and the October bullpen evolution (03:50). Then, they bring on the official historian of MLB, John Thorn, and author Steven Goldman to discuss some other unorthodox tactics from baseball's past that modern teams could consider bringing back (09:20).

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Ep. 35: Dissecting the Championship Series and Boog on Broadcasting

Fri, 14 Oct 2016 18:31:17 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann recount Clayton Kershaw's heroic, short-rest relief appearance in Game 5 of the NLDS (1:00), then bring on ESPN play-by-play man Boog Sciambi to discuss how he's preparing for the ALCS and why no one likes national broadcasters (6:30). Lastly, Ben and Michael analyze the ALCS and NLCS matchups and pronounce their pick for each series (37:00).

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Ep. 34: October Grab Bag

Tue, 11 Oct 2016 18:04:00 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann discuss the status of the Cubs-Giants NLDS and the secret to Chicago's incomparable run prevention (7:40), then talk about their takeaways from the sweeps of the Rangers and Red Sox (17:47) and explain the difficulty of copying the Indians' Andrew Miller model (21:40). Lastly, they debate whether the instant replay process needs to be amended for slide plays (33:33) and puzzle over the lackluster postseason performance of David Price and Clayton Kershaw (48:36).

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Ep. 33: The Postseason's Secret Weapon

Fri, 07 Oct 2016 17:20:32 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann make a few grudging playoff predictions (3:04), then bring on Royals major league advance scout Alec Zumwalt (9:18) to discuss how teams prepare to take on their October opponents (11:30), the scouting insights that helped the Royals win back-to-back pennants (15:38), the differences between scouting in person and scouting via video and stats (25:25), and the scouting perspective on the decision not to send Alex Gordon in Game 7 of the 2014 World Series (45:17).

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Ep. 32: How to Manage a Must-Win Game, and the Diamondbacks' Demise

Tue, 04 Oct 2016 17:31:14 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk to Athletics third-base coach and former Rangers skipper Ron Washington (3:30) about postseason tactics and managing the first-ever AL wild-card game. Then, they bring on Diamondbacks beat writer Nick Piecoro (27:25) to discuss Arizona's dysfunctional front office and the firings of GM Dave Stewart and manager Chip Hale.

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Ep. 31: Michael Schur and a Sidearm Success Story

Fri, 30 Sep 2016 17:30:57 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann discuss the Indians' Monday makeup dilemma (2:07) and Theo Epstein's contract extension (5:57). Then, they talk to 'The Good Place' creator Michael Schur about the Red Sox (14:07), the state of baseball discourse (23:50), and the intersections of sports and TV (36:26). Lastly, they ask A's pitcher Andrew Triggs about his unique delivery (59:18) and surprising performance this season (1:00:42).

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Ep. 30: Baseball's Biggest Executive Tree and Modernizing Minnesota

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 18:04:06 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk to Braves president of baseball operations (and former Indians and Rangers GM) John Hart about his history of hiring executives who've gone on to run other teams (6:00). Then, they bring on Baseball Prospectus editor-in-chief Aaron Gleeman (36:30) to discuss the newest branch on Hart's tree, Derek Falvey, who'll reportedly take over the behind-the-times Twins.

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Ep. 29: A Big Leaguer's Look at Unwritten Rules, and Scully's Successor

Fri, 23 Sep 2016 19:39:59 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk to former MLB pitcher Dan Haren about the latest blowup between Madison Bumgarner and Yasiel Puig (2:43) as well as the nature of unwritten rules (17:51). Then, in honor of Vin Scully Appreciation Day, they bring on Dodgers play-by-play man Joe Davis to ask him about being the heir to Scully's mic (43:44).

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Ep. 28: Producing 'Pitch,' and the TV Verdict From Two Real-Life Pro Players

Tue, 20 Sep 2016 15:53:30 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann banter about whether the Indians are doomed in October after their recent rash of injuries, and then talk to Kevin Falls, the executive producer and showrunner of 'Pitch,' about the making of the new Fox series and the secret history of 'Summer Catch.' Lastly, they bring on professional baseball players Stacy Piagno and Kelsie Whitmore to discuss their thoughts on 'Pitch' and their experience competing against men this summer.

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Ep. 27: A GM Suspension and a GM Search

Fri, 16 Sep 2016 21:46:36 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk to San Diego Union-Tribune Padres beat writer Dennis Lin about the suspension of boundary-pushing Padres general manager A.J. Preller. Then, they bring on Korn Ferry consultant Jed Hughes to discuss how his company helps MLB teams (including the Blue Jays, Brewers, and Twins) select and hire GMs.

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Ep. 26: The AL East's Historic Stretch Run, and the AL's Interleague Dominance

Tue, 13 Sep 2016 20:55:12 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann break down the unprecedented four-team race in the American League East. Then, they bring on FanGraphs writers Dave Cameron and Jeff Sullivan to investigate why the AL has beaten the NL in interleague play for 13 consecutive seasons.

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Ep. 25: The State of Statcast, and How to Be Baseball's Best Organist

Fri, 09 Sep 2016 19:30:39 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk to MLB Advanced Media director of R&D Daren Willman and senior data architect Tom Tango about the latest developments with baseball's Statcast tracking system. Then, they bring on Braves organist Matthew Kaminski to talk about his crowdsourced taunting of opposing players.

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Ep. 24: September's Prospect Promotions, and Baseball's Behind-the-Scenes Rules

Tue, 06 Sep 2016 16:19:48 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk to Baseball America national writer Ben Badler about Yoan Moncada, Byron Buxton, José De Leon, and other high-profile prospects called up this month. Then, they bring on Angels director of player personnel Justin Hollander to discuss the unsung grunt work that prevents front offices from making major administrative mistakes.

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Ep. 23: The Man With the Best Job in Baseball, and the Manager Who's Killing the Closer

Thu, 01 Sep 2016 18:45:24 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh talks to Padres bullpen catcher Justin Hatcher about why being an MLB bullpen catcher is secretly the best job in baseball. Then, Ben talks to Indians manager Terry Francona about Cleveland's innovative usage of relief ace Andrew Miller, who's broken the modern mold for late-inning relievers since his mid-season move.

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Ep. 22: Growing Gary Sánchez and Pitching to Tim Tebow

Tue, 30 Aug 2016 15:34:17 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann talk to former major league catcher and current Yankees catching coordinator Josh Paul about how Gary Sánchez got to the big leagues and became the hottest hitter on earth. Then, they bring on MLB veteran David Aardsma to discuss his scouting report on Tim Tebow, who's about to try out for MLB teams.

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Ep. 21: Scouting Cuba's Biggest Star, and How the Dodgers Are Winning While Wounded

Thu, 25 Aug 2016 18:17:44 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh talks to Astros director of pro scouting Kevin Goldstein about the scouting, signing, and big league debut of Yulieski Gurriel. Then, Ben brings on former Dodgers VP of medical services and head athletic trainer Stan Conte to discuss how the Dodgers have succeeded despite leading MLB in disabled-list stints in consecutive seasons.

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Ep. 20: MLB Panic Meter With Mallory Rubin and Michael Baumann

Tue, 23 Aug 2016 20:28:28 -0000

The Ringer's Mallory Rubin and Michael Baumann offer up five potential playoff contenders and determine whether it's time for these teams to hit the panic button as we enter the stretch run of the MLB season.

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Ep. 19: How to Give Major League Makeovers With John Baker and Brian Bannister

Thu, 18 Aug 2016 17:48:48 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh talks to Cubs baseball operations assistant John Baker and Red Sox director of pitching analysis and development Brian Bannister about how the two former big leaguers are melding their major league experience and their interest in analytics to optimize player performance and bridge the gap between the front office and the field.

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Ep. 18: How José Altuve and Mookie Betts Were Made

Tue, 16 Aug 2016 20:15:10 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann get firsthand accounts of the discovery and development of surprise superstars José Altuve and Mookie Betts from former Astros assistant GM (and current Pirates scout) Ricky Bennett and Red Sox VP of amateur and international scouting Amiel Sawdaye.

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Ep. 17: A-Rod's Retirement and Prince Fielder's Career-Ending Injury

Fri, 12 Aug 2016 19:51:04 -0000

The Ringer's Michael Baumann brings on SB Nation writer Grant Brisbee to discuss the nature of baseball fandom and Prince Fielder's career-ending injury. Then, CBS Sports writer Dayn Perry joins to break down what Alex Rodriguez's farewell symbolizes.

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Ep. 16: Yankees GM Brian Cashman and Brewers GM David Stearns

Tue, 09 Aug 2016 18:38:45 -0000

Ben Lindbergh talks to Yankees general manager Brian Cashman and Brewers general manager David Stearns about the moves they each made at the trade deadline, their top-ranked prospect stockpiles, and their strategies for revamping their rosters.

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Ep. 15: Brian Kenny and Cole Figueroa

Thu, 04 Aug 2016 19:33:12 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh welcomes MLB Network studio host Brian Kenny to discuss his divisive on-air persona and his new book, 'Ahead of the Curve.' Then, Marlins infielder Cole Figueroa joins (1:02:00) to break down what it's like to be a casualty of the MLB trade deadline and describe life as a big league journeyman.

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Ep. 14: Trade Deadline Winners and Losers With Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann

Tue, 02 Aug 2016 16:20:39 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann break down the many moves made before the MLB trade deadline and give their grades on which teams did well and which did poorly.

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Ep. 13: Trade Rumor Mill With Jeff Passan and Ichiro's 3,000th Hit With Ben Gibbard

Thu, 28 Jul 2016 18:01:51 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh brings on Yahoo Sports baseball columnist and author Jeff Passan to discuss the science behind the trade rumor mill in baseball. Then Death Cab for Cutie frontman Ben Gibbard joins (36:10) to debut a new theme song for the show and give his thoughts on Ichiro's quest for 3,000 hits.

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Ep. 12: Trade Deadline Talk With Mallory Rubin and Michael Baumann

Tue, 26 Jul 2016 23:46:35 -0000

The Ringer's Mallory Rubin and Michael Baumann bring on resident Cubs fan Robert Mays and Yankees fan Ben Glicksman to give their thoughts on the Aroldis Chapman trade. Then, they discuss the impending trade deadline and give their best player–team pairing, their favorite trade rumor that's most likely not to happen, and potential dark-horse deals.

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Ep. 11: The Pirates' Revolution and Breaking Down 2016 Baseball Movies

Thu, 21 Jul 2016 19:32:14 -0000

The Ringer's Ben Lindbergh and Michael Baumann bring on Pittsburgh Tribune-Review writer Travis Sawchik to discuss all of the ways the Pittsburgh Pirates are embracing sports science. Then Ben and Michael discuss whether baseball movies are having a moment by breaking down the 2016 lineup of 'Everybody Wants Some!!,' 'The Phenom,' and 'Undrafted.'

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Ep. 10: Baseball Hall of Fame With SI's Jay Jaffe, and the Cleveland Curse With Rob Harvilla

Tue, 19 Jul 2016 17:35:08 -0000

The Ringer's Michael Baumann brings on Sports Illustrated's Jay Jaffe to discuss Cooperstown pitfalls, controversies, and mistakes. Then, The Ringer's Rob Harvilla joins (25:00) to give insight into the Cleveland spirit. Fresh off a Cavs championship and with the Indians on the rise, what would it mean for the city to win a World Series?

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Ep. 9: Mourning the Mets With Sean Fennessey, Sam Schube, and Anthony DiComo

Wed, 13 Jul 2016 23:03:50 -0000

The Ringer's resident New York Mets faithful let their feelings flow as they take on Matt Harvey's grim future, David Wright's feeble back, and what's next for a once-promising rotation battling the injury bug. Then, MLB.com reporter Anthony DiComo joins (23:00) to offer insight into the Mets’ best hope heading into the stretch run.

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Ep. 8: 'Midseason Mailbag' With Mallory Rubin and Michael Baumann

Fri, 08 Jul 2016 20:02:41 -0000

The Ringer’s Mallory Rubin and Michael Baumann answer questions from listeners, including: What are the top five MLB teams to watch (2:00)? Which free agents have helped or hurt their stock in the first half (21:00)? And which starting outfield has the most talent in MLB (37:00)?

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Ep. 7: Ringer All-Star Pitching Rotation With Mallory Rubin and Michael Baumann

Wed, 29 Jun 2016 19:30:50 -0000

The Ringer's Mallory Rubin and Michael Baumann craft their All-Star pitching staffs by selecting five starters, two relievers, a pitching coach, and their top manager. Then, Yahoo's Andy Behrens joins to give a daily fantasy breakdown and discuss The Ringer's $5,000 baseball contest.

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Ep. 6: Ringer All-Star Extravaganza With Mallory Rubin and Michael Baumann

Wed, 22 Jun 2016 20:54:23 -0000

With All-Star voting ending on June 30, the Ringer's Mallory Rubin and Michael Baumann bring you the players they cherish. They list their top contenders and explain why each player made the cut.

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Ep. 5: Midseason Fantasy Special With Mallory Rubin and Michael Baumann

Wed, 15 Jun 2016 19:27:25 -0000

The Ringer's Mallory Rubin and Michael Baumann on the best and worst of their fantasy draft picks and whom they would buy, sell, or trade.

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Ep. 4: What's up With the AL Central With Michael Baumann, Nick Schaefer, and Aaron Gleeman

Fri, 10 Jun 2016 23:01:40 -0000

The Ringer's Michael Baumann checks in with Baseball Prospectus writer Nick Schaefer to discuss all things White Sox. Then, Aaron Gleeman joins to give an update on the Minnesota Twins' hopes in the AL Central.

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Ep. 3: The Rise of the Chicago Cubs With Mallory Rubin and Rany Jazayerli

Wed, 08 Jun 2016 01:22:27 -0000

The Ringer's Mallory Rubin and acclaimed baseball writer Rany Jazayerli on the Chicago Cubs’ historic season and their chase to emerge as the best team in MLB history.

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Ep. 2: The Philadelphia Phillies' Process With Yahoo's Liz Roscher

Wed, 01 Jun 2016 23:48:53 -0000

The Ringer's Michael Baumann and 'Big League Stew' blogger Liz Roscher on the Phillies' bad-but-fun 2016 season and promise for the future.

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Ep. 1: Yankees and AL East w/ Bill Simmons, JackO, and Mallory Rubin

Tue, 24 May 2016 18:54:06 -0000

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons hosts the inaugural 'Ringer MLB Show' with JackO and Mallory Rubin on the Yankees, AL East, and where Bryce Harper should sign with next.

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