Will Sammon joins Eno and DVR to discuss the Mets' increasing distance from 'LOL Mets' thanks to their continued growth in pitching development throughout the organization. Plus, they discuss the ongoing questions around Brett Baty, Luisangel Acuña's path to lock down the second-base job, and changes to Mark Vientos' approach that haven't paid off yet. Plus, they discuss bloated ratios, Dylan Cease's bad luck to begin 2025, and Jasson Domínugez as a long-term target.

Rundown

2:11 Clay Holmes' Excellent Start to 2025

5:56 Griffin Canning's Relatively Simple Adjustments

11:49 Taking Small Market Success Into a Big Budget Situation

14:33 Tylor Megill's Short & Long-Term Changes

17:27 David Peterson is the Mets' Andrew Abbott

21:06 Questions Around the Mets' Bats

27:24 Trading Bat Speed for an All-Fields Approach?

37:04 Hope for Damaged ERA and WHIP?

44:26 What's Going On with Dylan Cease?

49:56 Jasson Domínguez: Still a Long-Term Target?

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Will Sammon

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss the likely season-ending injury for Triston Casas among several other absences that popped up over the weekend including Yordan Alvarez, Shota Imanaga (both on the IL since recording), Freddy Peralta and Corbin Burnes. They also discuss BABIP as a tool to help find buy-low targets and pickups, and marvel at Aaron Judge's .500 BABIP to begin the season before looking at how Coby Mayo might fit on the Orioles' depth chart once they get a infielders back from the IL.

Rundown

3:00 Triston Casas: 2025 Season Likely Over

11:19 Corbin Burnes: Early Skills Decline Followed By Shoulder Inflammation

17:52 Freddy Peralta & Shota Imanaga: Leave Early w/Injuries

22:16 Other News & Notes From the Weekend

28:54 Inspector BABIP: Using BABIP as an Entry Point for Buy Lows & Pickups

43:54 Concerns About Junior Caminero's Launch Angle?

51:27 Favorite In-Season Projections

54:58 Where the Money Went: Light Bidding on Coby Mayo Thanks to Upcoming Crowded Depth Chart?

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Producer: Brian Smith\

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

C. Trent Rosecrans joins Eno and DVR to discuss the Reds -- including Andrew Abbott's fast start and track record of posting ERAs below his projections -- the ascent of Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo's missing strikeouts amidst good results, and questions around the quality and depth of the Cincinnati bullpen. Plus, they examine the profile of Nick Kurtz, who has been promoted to the big leagues by the A's less than a year after he was drafted fourth overall out of Wake Forest.

Rundown

2:06 Please Help Us Understand Andrew Abbott

9:00 Jose Trevino's Impact on the Staff & Clubhouse

12:08 The Little Adjustment Paying Off for Hunter Greene

18:11 Nick Lodolo's Missing Strikeouts

22:05 Nick Martinez as a Great Fit

27:07 What's Going On with the Reds' Bullpen?

34:15 Nick Kurtz Gets the Call from the A's

45:53 Craig Yoho Joins the Brewers' Relief Corps & Logan Henderson's Outlook

54:00 Brandon Young is Back in the Mix for the Orioles

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: C. Trent Rosecrans

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss the Dodgers' commanding lead over the Yankees after a 4-2 win in Game 3. Plus, they wonder if the TV strike-zone box is ready for an overhaul, and discuss why Brusdar Graterol doesn't strike more hitters out. Away from the World Series, they discuss several notable second-half performances including Blake Snell, Yusei Kikuchi and Hunter Brown with an eye toward early 2025 drafts.

Rundown

3:55 Another Strong Start From Walker Buehler

10:29 A Closer Look at Strike Three Against Gleyber Torres in the Seventh Inning

18:02 The Multi-Year Success of Dodger Bullpen Games

26:25 Why Doesn't Brusdar Graterol Get More Strikeouts?

30:48 Giving Blake Snell & Gerrit Cole the SP1 Treatment in 2025?

43:41 Eno's Lingering Concerns About Kevin Gausman

47:55 Is Hunter Brown an SP2 Now? (Top 30 Pitcher)

53:36 Buying 2023-2024 Improvements From Yusei Kikuchi?

56:42 Second-Half Hitter Questions: Josh Lowe's K%, Lars Nootbaar's Health & Sean Murphy's Productivity

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss an eventful start to the World Series -- including Freddie Freeman's walk-off grand slam, and the Yankees' choice to use Nestor Cortes in that matchup -- long-term concerns about Shohei Ohtani's dislocated shoulder even if he's able to play in Game 3, and the postseason struggles of Aaron Judge. Plus, they look back at their second-half draft from July to discuss a few intriguing early-draft season targets including Luis Robert Jr., whose situation for 2025 would improve drastically if the White Sox opt to trade him. 

Rundown

1:15 Freddie Freeman's Walk-Off Grand Slam

11:31 Yoshinobu Yamamoto's Game 2 Performance & Adjustments

21:01 Aaron Judge's October Woes

27:00 Long-Term Concerns About Shohei Ohtani's Shoulder?

36:54 Looking Back at Our Second-Half Rebound Draft

43:50 Luis Robert Jr. v. Brenton Doyle in 2025

51:45 Bo Bichette v. Luis García Jr.

57:58 David Fry, Sonny Gray & Ronny Mauricio Updates

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Freddie Freeman Cover Photo: Maddie Meyer/Getty Images

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Eno and DVR preview the World Series matchup between the Yankees and Dodgers, examining the team's position player groups -- including defense and baserunning -- pitching, and the difficulty of game planning throughout the series. Plus, they share their predictions for series winner and series MVP.

Rundown

1:32 The Lineups: Depth Will Be Under the Microscope Behind Stars

14:38 How Do the Yankees & Dodgers Stack Up Defensively?

24:05 Do the Dodgers Have a Significant Edge on the Basepaths?

27:55 Game-by-Game Starting Pitcher Outlook

33:52 The Challenge of Limiting Looks at Your Relievers

37:07 Game Planning Considerations for the Series

51:54 Predictions: Series Winner & MVP

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno, DVR, Trevor discuss the passing of Fernando Valenzuela, whose dominant 1981 season led to Rookie of the Year and Cy Young Award honors in the same campaign and spurred 'Fernandomania' in Los Angeles. Plus, they dig into reliever rankings for the World Series and critical matchups that each team will be focused on during the Fall Classic. 

Rundown

0:59 Fernando Valenzuela Passes Away at Age 63

5:21 Reliever Rankings for the World Series: Who Is No. 1?

15:59 Evan Phillips' Difficult Matchup with the Yankees' Bats

20:12 Tommy Kahnle's Extremely Heavy Changeup Usage

28:08 The Yankees' Lack of Power Lefties in the Bullpen

37:27 Uncertainty Around Nestor Cortes Jr.'s Availability & Role

44:22 Critical Matchups That Could Swing the Series

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Trevor May

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno, Britt and DVR discuss a few compelling things about this year's World Series matchup and wonder if this round of Yankees v. Dodgers is a 'Dream World Series'. Plus, they rank the starting pitchers that are likely to appear in the series and assess the overall strength of each team's rotation options. Beyond the World Series, they also discuss Britt's story about White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf considering a potential sale of the team, and the upgrades that might be on tap for a Cubs team seeking a return to the playoffs in 2025. 

Rundown

1:14 Is This the 'Dream World Series'?

5:32 The Best World Series Money Can Buy?

13:03 What Compels You Most About Yankees-Dodgers?

23:21 Lining Up the Starters Around Expected Bullpen Games

28:28 Rankings the Starting Pitchers We'll See In This Series

42:56 Jerry Reinsdorf is Open to Selling the White Sox

51:12 Offseason Plans for the Cubs

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper, Eno Sarris & Britt Ghiroli

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR look back at the conclusion of the LCS matchups as the Dodgers eliminated the Mets and the Yankees eliminated the Guardians to advance to the World Series over the weekend. They also examine a few potential offseason moves for the Mets and Guardians.

Rundown

4:51 The Dodgers' Lack of Innings From Starters This Postseason

8:53 Reliever Third Time Penalties Raise Questions About Heavy Reliever Usage in Playoffs

14:56 Did We Underappreciate the Tommy Edman Deal?

19:48 Looking Ahead at the Mets' Offseason Plans

28:45 An ALCS That Delivered Plenty of Excitement

40:39 Juan Soto v. Hunter Gaddis in Game 5 of the ALCS

48:27 What's On Tap for the Guardians This Winter?

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss an instant classic in Cleveland as the Guardians took Game 3 of the ALCS in dramatic fashion. Plus, they see another night of increased stuff across the board for Dodgers and Mets pitchers in Game 4 of the NLCS, where the Dodgers are now just one win away from the World Series. They also consider the 2025 outlook for Yoshinobu Yamamoto and take their first look at very early draft-day costs for starting pitchers around the top of the board.

Rundown

2:21 An Instant Classic in Cleveland

10:58 Should Jhonkensy Noel Be in the Starting Lineup for Bottom-Half Pop?

14:26 The Dodgers Are One Win Away From the World Series

20:20 Did We See a Similar Stuff Increase at Citi Field in Game 4?

29:10 Is Yoshinobu Yamamoto a Fantasy Ace In Year 2 with the Dodgers?

41:25 What If You Wait Until After Round 5 (15 teams) to Start Drafting Pitchers?

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss Walker Buehler's outing in Game 3 of the NLCS and the overall uptick in pitch movement at Citi Field on Wednesday night. Plus, they examine the struggles of catchers at the plate this postseason -- and in recent years -- before discussing publicly available defensive metrics following the release of Gold Glove finalists earlier this week.

Rundown

1:13 Was That Walker Buehler's Best Stuff of the Season?

9:29 David Fry's Injury-Driven Defensive Limitations

11:53 Are Catcher Ground Into Stumps by October?

20:06 Will Smith's Slight Downturn in 2024

30:06 How Does This Guardians Team Compare to Other Recent LCS Clubs?

41:20 The Gold Glove Finalists Made Us Wonder: How Do We Feel About Currently Available Defensive Metrics?

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss the Yankees' Game 2 over the Guardians and the missed opportunities for Cleveland as the series heads to Ohio and wonder how the Guardians might be able to climb back into the series. Plus, Eno shares his frustration with the unfair critiques of one-knee down catching, and they discuss the lack of right-on-right changeups. 

Rundown

2:20 Missed Opportunities in Game 2 of the ALCS

7:40 The Absurdity of Complaints About One-Knee Down Catching

12:49 Pedro Avila's New Splitter May Matter Beyond the Playoffs

21:32 How Can the Guardians Climb Back Into the ALCS?

29:02 Why Don't We See More Right-on-Right Changeups?

35:43 Can We Have More Broadcast Options in the Playoffs?

45:33 Hawk-Eye Purchases KinaTrax; Potential Benefits on the Public Data Side in the Future?

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss the Dodgers' altered bullpen game approach in Game 2 of the NLCS which included an earlier usage of Landon Knack, who surrendered a critical second-inning grand slam to Mark Vientos. Plus, they examine the Mets' success against relievers throughout the year as highlighted by Robert Orr of Baseball Prospectus, a few potential fits for Alex Bregman and Willy Adames in free agency, and the success of Carlos Rodón in Game 1 of the ALCS against the Guardians.

Rundown

1:41 The Mets Slug Against the Dodgers' Bullpen to Take Game 2

7:16 Mark Vientos' 2024 Breakout

12:23 How Will Alex Bregman's Defense Age?

18:01 Willy Adames' Foray Into Free Agency

22:55 Did the Dodgers' Hold Back Their Top Relievers in Game 2 to Limit the Mets' Looks?

26:39 Robert Orr's Breakdown of the Mets' Success Against Relievers

35:20 What Would You Put on Your Hitters Skills Checklist?

39:55 Can the Guardians Begin to Turn Good Hit Tools Into More Power?

47:51 What Changed for Carlos Rodón in Game 1 of the ALCS?

52:37 Will Luis Severino Add Wrinkles for the Dodgers' Lefties in Game 3?

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss the promotion of Chandler Simpson by the Rays and attempt to determine how his short-term outlook for playing time and long-term ceiling will come together. Plus, they dig into mailbag questions about the early struggles of Devin Williams and Emmanuel Clase, making the choice between slow-starting bats and surging waiver-wire options in shallow leagues, and where the money went (beyond Chandler Simpson) with fantasy aseball pickups from the weekend.

Rundown

4:11 Chandler Simpson Gets the Call

11:24 Finding Roto Comps for a Unique Set of Skills

15:41: Other Injury News & Notes From the Weekend

24:56 A Wild Friday Afternoon at Wrigley

30:44 Struggling First Basemen v. Potential Waiver-Wire Upgrades

41:55 The Slow Starts of Devin Williams & Emmanuel Clase

51:29 Where the Money Went: Making Sense of Weekend Waiver Pickups

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss the LCS matchups between the Dodgers and Mets, and the Yankees and Guardians -- including the Dodgers' pitching staff going on an excellent run of scoreless innings (33 entering Game 2 of the NLCS on Monday) -- and the Guardians' series-clinching win over the Tigers from the weekend. Plus, they wonder what adjustments AJ Preller and company will make around the core returning for 2025, and the next steps for the Tigers after their run ended one win away from a trip to the ALCS. 

Rundown

1:35 Will the Dodgers Ever Give Up a Run Again?

3:21 The Padres' Offseason Outlook

12:35 Keys to the Mets-Dodgers NLCS Matchup

25:58 Lane Thomas' Grand Slam Propels the Guardians Into the ALCS

37:14 The Tigers' Offseason Outlook

49:31 Jackson Jobe's Path Into the Opening Day Rotation

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss the Yankees' series-clinching win over the Royals, and what comes next after big step forward in Kansas City in 2024. Plus, they examine the Guardians' win in Game 4 that brings their ALDS matchup with the Tigers for a decisive Game 5 against Tarik Skubal, and a few offseason news items of interest.

Rundown

1:12 Yankees Advance to ALCS with Game 4 Win in Kansas City

5:42 Offseason Outlook in KC

17:07 Chuckles From the Yankees' Postgame Celebration

25:14 Another Smart Bullpen Decision in an Elimination Game

30:38 An Excellent Game 4 in Guardians-Tigers Series

41:09 Offseason Updates: Brent Rooker, Jorge Polanco & Tomoyuki Sugano

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

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Eno, DVR, and Britt discuss the Tigers' Game 3 win over the Guardians that has put them one win away from the ALCS, the Dodgers' bullpen game shutout of the Padres that will send their series back to LA for a Game 5, Francisco Lindor's heroics that vaulted the Mets into the NLCS, what's next for the Phillies, and the Yankees-Royals matchup in Game 4 that features a rematch of Gerrit Cole v. Michael Wacha.

Rundown

7:30 The Tigers' Staff Cruises (Again) in Game 3

11:30 Matt Vierling's Catch Halts a Guardians Rally

19:45 The Dodgers' Bullpen Game Shutout Win in Game 4

30:41 Francisco Lindor's Grand Slam Sends the Mets to the NLCS

36:30 The Phillies' Current Window; Offseason Needs

41:59 The Yankees Push the Royals to the Brink of Elimination

48:51 The KC Bullpen Decision: Lefty-Lefty Against Wells, or Righty-Right Against Stanton?

55:25 Michael Wacha's Success & Changeup Usage v. Aaron Judge

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper, Eno Sarris & Britt Ghiroli

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss critical Game 3 wins for the Mets and Padres that have the Phillies and Dodgers facing elimination Wednesday. Plus, they dig into the Tigers' and Guardians' pitching options in a bullpen-heavy Game 3 in Detroit, and the Clarke Schmidt-Seth Lugo pitching matchup on tap as Royals v. Yankees shifts to Kansas City. 

Rundown

0:34 The Tigers' Game 3 Pitching Plans

6:49 Cleveland's Plans Behind Alex Cobb

13:18 Sean Manaea Deals in Game 3; Mets One Win Away From NLCS

24:05 Can José Quintana Keeps the Phillies' Bats Quiet in Game 4?

30:04 Clarke Schmidt v. Seth Lugo in Kansas City

35:17 Dylan Cease on Short Rest v. Landon Knack & the Dodgers' Bullpen

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss all four Division Series being level at one game apiece and preview the Game 3 matchups between the Phillies and Mets, and Padres and Dodgers before looking back at Kerry Carpenter's game-winning three-run homer off of Emmanuel Clase, and the four-run fourth inning at the put the Royals on top for good in the Bronx on Monday night.

Rundown

2:15 Sean Manaea: A Familiar Foe w/Changing Arm Slot

11:42 Seeing a Pitch Shape More Often Reduces Effectiveness

15:57 Walker Buehler's Game 3 Assignment; Importance of Curveball and Cutter

22:18 Mookie Betts' Postseason Numbers

33:55 Kerry Carpenter Claims a Chapter in Tigers Postseason History

47:17 The Royals Take Game 2 in the Bronx

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss a busy weekend for all four Division Series -- including the early outburst from the Cleveland lineup that set up a Guardians' Game 1 win, a back-and-forth battle in the Bronx that the Yankees held onto win over the Royals, and two splits on the National League side where bitter rivalries have generated some great early-series drama. 

Rundown

2:56 The Guardians' Offense Erupts in Game 1; Thoughts Behind Tigers' Opener Strategy Against Cleveland Bats

11:17 Game Planning Against Tarik Skubal

18:11 A Missed Opportunity for the Royals?

22:44 One Particularly Important Play By Jazz Chisholm Jr.

28:40 Phillies-Mets Is Delivering Through Two Games

39:37 Padres-Dodgers Continues to Escalate

50:27 Jurickson Profar Fooled Us!

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss the Mets' thrilling comeback win over the Brewers to advance to the NLDS -- and Eno looks ahead and what's next for Milwaukee in 2025 -- before they take a look at each of the four Division Series matchups getting underway Saturday.

Rundown

1:36 Pete Alonso Hits a Series-Winning Homer

9:22 Eno Looks Ahead at the Brewers' 2025

15:37 Key Questions in Mets-Phillies Matchup

26:30 A Possible Role for Kodai Senga In This Round?

31:09 Key Questions in Tigers-Guardians Matchup

39:51 A Closer Look: Potential Game Plan for Tigers v. Tanner Bibee

47:03 Does the AL's Off-Day Schedule Help Kansas City?

55:23 Key Questions in Padres-Dodgers Matchup

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss the action from Day 2 of the Wild Card Round which featured three teams advancing -- including the Tigers, Royals and Padres -- and just one series -- Mets v. Brewers -- that will head to a decisive Game 3. With Division Series previews on tap for Friday's episode, they also examine the offseason questions facing the Astros, Orioles and Braves as those teams begin to focus on 2025.

Rundown

1:43 Jackson Chourio & Garrett Mitchell Send Brewers-Mets to Game 3

8:32 The Surprising Season of Tobias Myers; Any Wrinkles for Game 3?

15:30 The Orioles' Swift October Exit & A Big Offseason Looming

29:51 The Tigers' Johnny Wholestaff Approach Wins in Game 2

41:11 Big Offseason Questions Looming for the Astros

47:46 The Padres Pile On Early Against Max Fried to Advance

54:06 Atlanta's Offseason Questions

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno, Britt and DVR look back at fun opening day of the 2024 postseason and consider the implications of Game 1 in each series as four teams -- the Astros, Braves, Brewers and Orioles -- all face elimination Wednesday. 

Rundown

0:55 Tarik Skubal's Gem, Tigers' Game 2 Kitchen Sink Pitching Plan

10:56 Mets Parlay Big Inning Into Game 2 Elimination Opportunity in Milwaukee

25:38 The Orioles' Lineup is Looking For Answers

35:00 The Padres' Intriguing Rotation Alignment Pays Off in Game 1, Can This Version of Joe Musgrove Close Out Atlanta in Game 2?

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper, Eno Sarris & Britt Ghiroli

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After an incredible Game 1 of Monday's Mets-Braves doubleheader, the NL Wild Card round matchups are set! Eno and DVR discuss the potential carryover effects of the tight schedule on both clubs as they go on the road to face the Padres and Brewers. How will the Braves navigate their pitching plans if Chris Sale is unavailable? Will the bullpens wear down as series progress? Plus, is this the most complete Padres team that AJ Preller has assembled in San Diego? Can the Mets' lineup propel them deep into October, or will the Brewers' mixing and matching approach in the pitching staff continues to work in the playoffs?

Rundown

3:34 Doubleheader Carryover Effects on Atlanta's Pitching

11:39 The Best Padres Squad of the Preller Era?

17:49 Limited Value of Regular Season Meetings

23:28 The Depth of the Mets' Lineup

34:40 The Brewers' Pitching Flexibility

41:00 Full World Series Predictions

Follow Eno on Twitter: @enosarris

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss the setback for Grayson Rodriguez and the fallout for the Orioles' rotation, the promotion of Luke Keaschall as the Twins deal with a few injuries on their depth chart, and weekend waiver pickups to consider with Ottoneu found and Rates & Barrels Senior Hot Dog Correspondent Niv Shah.

Rundown

1:09 Grayson Rodriguez Has a Setback

10:34 Luke Keaschall Gets the Call to the Twins

16:57 Prospect of the Week

25:57 What's Driving the Interest in Tyler Mahle?

28:48 Matthew Liberatore: Post-Hype Sleeper?

30:48 Austin Hays: Underrated Pickup in Cincinnati; The Reds' Crowd

35:54: Behold...."The L.A. Dog"!

42:32 Jo Adell's Chances of a 2025 Breakout

47:38 Tanner Bibee's Early Struggles

49:50 A $1 Bet on Science

53:26 Other Weekend Waiver Targets to Consider

Follow Eno on Bluesky: @enosarris.bsky.social

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Guest: Niv Shah

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss the two AL Wild Card matchups with the Tigers' second-half surge bringing them to Houston, with an opportunity to end the Astros' string of seven consecutive ALCS appearances. Plus, they examine the Royals-Orioles matchup, and wonder if the Kansas City bats behind Bobby Witt Jr. and Salvador Perez can bring enough to the table against playoff pitching, and if the O's second-half performance (40-41) will carry over into October. 

Rundown

3:14 Can The Tigers Carry Their Excellent Second Half Into October?

10:34 Buying Elite Quality of Contact Suppression?

17:31 The Difficulty of Picking Against the Astros

25:52 How Do the Royals and Orioles Match Up?

34:37 What's Behind the September Struggles of the Baltimore Bullpen?

38:57 Who Advances to Face the Yankees in the ALDS?

47:37 The Lingering Questions About Supporting Bats Behind Judge and Soto

50:31 Cleveland's Shift Toward More Power in 2024

Follow Eno on Twitter: @enosarris

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR are joined by Melissa Lockard on the heels of Thursday's final game for the Oakland A's at the Coliseum. They discuss Melissa's path into A's fanhood a few decades ago, the final home game in Oakland, where things stand with the A's player development, and the long-term outlook for Brent Rooker and Lawrence Butler.

Rundown

1:11 Melissa's Path to Becoming an A's Fan

6:07 A Bunny Bringing Balls Out of the Ground?

13:19 How Did This Actually Happens?

20:53 The Final Home Game in Oakland

25:34 What's Next for A's Fans?

33:57 Where Do Things Stand for Player Development?

39:12 How Far Is This Team From Contention?

49:22 Brent Rooker's Incredible 2024 Campaign

53:44 Lawrence Butler's Future

59:22 Which Pitching Prospects is Melissa Most Excited About for 2025?

Follow Eno on Twitter: @enosarris

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Follow Melissa on Twitter: @MelissaLockard

e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

\Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/FyBa9f3wFe

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Melissa Lockard

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno, Britt and DVR discuss the flaws for each of the 15 remaining teams in contention for the playoffs and explain why that could lead to their elimination (and share a few reasons why they could win the World Series). Does recent form even matter? If so, for how long? Does the Orioles' underwhelming second half mean more than the Royals' seven-game losing streak, or can teams turn everything around with a clean slate in October?

Rundown

1:15 The Dodgers' Current Starting Pitching Options

5:06 Are The Phillies Ready to Finish the Job in 2024?

8:51 Is Starting Pitching Depth the Brewers' Biggest Weakness?

13:58 Could the Padres' Defense Lead to Their Playoff Demise?

17:47 Can the D-backs Continue to Outhit Their Pitching?

21:24 What Are Mets' Biggest Concerns Beyond Francisco Lindor's Health?

27:05 Is the Braves' Nightmare Simply Missing the Postseason?

29:48 Has the Gap Between the Yankees and Astros Closed Since the 2022 ALCS?

34:54 We Owe an Apology to the Guardians

39:49 What Are the Astros' Concerns Beyond the Yordan Alvarez Injury?

44:22 Macro View Problems for the Orioles

50:46 Are the Tigers Actually Good?

56:08 Beyond the Seven-Game Losing Streak, What Are You Worried About with the Royals?

1:01:34 Can The Twins Clear the Cobwebs?

1:07:07 It Would Be a Shame for the Mariners to Waste This Pitching

Follow Eno on Twitter: @enosarris

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper, Eno Sarris & Britt Ghiroli

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss a few potential tweaks to the endgame of fantasy baseball season, which always brings a plethora of odd and challenging decisions. Plus, they look at the injury-hampered season of Rafael Devers, the second-half recovery from Eugenio Suárez, and the limited options available for the final week in draft-and-hold formats. 

Rundown

3:53 Eno's H2H Lament

6:55 What Is the Ideal Endgame in Fantasy Baseball?

22:00 Rafael Devers' 2024 Season is Over

29:02 Eugenio Suárez's Massive Second Half

33:05 Staying Upright Until the End in Draft-and-Hold Leagues

42:05 Jonathan Aranda is Pulling Us Back in with a Nice September

51:59 Where the Money Went: Final Week Edition

54:32 Luke Weaver's Adjustments & 2025 Closer Outlook

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss Shohei Ohtani's 50-50 campaign -- and the incredible performance he turned in Thursday to reach that milestone. Plus, they examine Bo Bichette's future outlook as his 2024 season has to come a close, before looking at the second-half K-BB% leaderboard.

Rundown

2:03 Shohei Ohtani Creates the 50-50 Club

4:54 Where Does Thursday's Six-Hit, Two Homer Game Rank All Time?

10:00 Oh Yeah, He'll Pitch Again Next Year

16:10 Freezing Ohtani Takes (Including Our Own)

22:15 Bo Bichette's Disappointing 2024 Season is Over. What's Next?

34:02 Second Half K-BB% Leaderboard Surprises

47:38 Is Brandon Pfaadt the New Mitch Keller or Nick Pivetta?

55:45 Who Are You Targeting for the Final Week?

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In their final regular season livestream of 2024, Eno, Trevor, and DVR have a draft of pitcher traits, in hopes of honing in on the most important qualities for a pitcher to have as foundational skills. Plus, they discuss Kumar Rocker and 'The Death Ball' and whether the Splinker is actually a real pitch. This week's show will also feature a special edition of 'Name That Dude'!

Rundown

1:31 The Brewers Clinch Their Fourth NL Central Title in Six Season

5:55 Craig Kimbrel DFA'd By Orioles; Is He Cooperstown Bound?

15:42 Does Kumar Rocker Throw 'The Death Ball'?

28:18 Are Splinkers Real?

40:00 Build a Pitcher: Our 2024 Draft

58:26 Name That Dude!

Follow Eno on Twitter: @enosarris

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Trevor May

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno, Britt and DVR discuss the possibility of having separate Rookie of the Year awards for hitters and pitchers in future seasons, and the difficulty of making choices in this year ROY races. Plus, they discuss the unusual story of Matt Chapman's extension with the Giants going through Buster Posey, the second-half struggles of the Orioles, and whether there is any meaningful link between September rotation results and October performance. 

Rundown

1:00 DVR's Case for Splitting Up Rookie of the Year Awards for Hitters and Pitchers

6:34 Varying WAR Across Different Sites (FanGraphs, Baseball Reference and Baseball Prospectus)

13:40 Looking for Value Beyond the Numbers

20:09 Ceddanne Rafaela's Rookie Campaign

26:04 Buster Posey's Role in Matt Chapman's Extension with the Giants

38:01 Making Sense of the Orioles' Second-Half Slide

51:48 Does Late-Season Rotation Form Matter?

Follow Eno on Twitter: @enosarris

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Join us Thursday at 1p ET/10a PT for our weekly live episode with Trevor May!

Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels

Hosts: Derek VanRiper, Eno Sarris & Britt Ghiroli

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Jackson Merrill Cover Photo: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

Mason Miller Cover Photo: Eakin Howard/Getty Images

Paul Skenes Cover Photo: Chris Coduto/Getty Images

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss Tyler Glasnow's sprained elbow -- and the likelihood that his 2024 season is now over. How much will Glasnow's risk-reward profile shift in the wake of another problematic ailment? Plus, is it time to re-evaluate Julio Rodríguez's status as an early first-round pick on the heels of a disappointing season in Year 3 with the Mariners, or does the ceiling he's flashes in his first two campaigns keep him in the conversation as a top-five pick in 2025? 

Rundown

3:24 Tyler Glasnow's 2024 Season is Likely Over

10:52 Awaiting Francisco Lindor's MRI Results

13:33 Is It Time to Re-Assess Julio Rodríguez's Early First-Round Status?

26:56 Long-Term: Spencer Arrighetti v. Hayden Birdsong

34:39 Heliot Ramos' History-Making Homer at Oracle

40:51 Kumar Rocker and Jacob deGrom Fetch (Some) Big Bids

Follow Eno on Twitter: @enosarris

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss Corey Seager's season-ending surgery and long-term outlook, Kumar Rocker's debut, and an impressive rotation coming together for the Rangers in 2025. Plus, they crowdsource some of the biggest risers among prospects from several members of The Athletic's MLB staff, and discuss a few intriguing names to consider on the waiver wire this weekend.

Rundown

5:58 Corey Seager to Have Season-Ending Hernia Surgery

11:26 Kumar Rocker Debuts, Jacob deGrom Nears Return

19:55 Twins Minor League Catcher Derek Bender Released for Giving Away Pitches

26:27 Project Prospect: (Some) of the Biggest Risers of 2024

33:40 Position Players Reaching Double-A At Age-18 or Younger

42:59 Carlson Reed: Another Pirates Pitching Prospect to Monitor

55:27 Two More Rising Bats

1:01:34 Weekend Waiver Wire Preview

Follow Eno on Twitter: @enosarris

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno, Trevor and DVR consider a few ways that pitchers could keep hitters guessing more often, a question about the possibility of great command being a detriment, unusual training methods and tools, and whether it would be more surprising to see the Tigers make the playoffs -- or -- for the Braves to miss them. Plus, it's Round 3 of Name That Dude!

Rundown

0:59 Using Game Theory for Pitch Sequencing?

9:18 Random Number Generating A Game Plan While Accounting for Known Useful Information

19:50 Can Great Command Be a Detriment?

31:17 What Unusual Training Methods and Tech Have You Seen?

40:39 Let’s Talk About Toe Yoga!

53:41 More Surprising: Tigers Making Playoffs - or - Braves Missing Them?

1:05:50 Name That Dude!

Follow Eno @enosarris

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Trevor May

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno, Trevor, and DVR discuss the return of Spencer Strider before digging into Eno's recent story with Britt Ghiroli and Jen McCaffrey examining the progress of hitting tech and development and the efforts to close the gap on pitching. Plus, they discuss the challenge of game-planning for Jacob Wilson, and the early struggles of Gavin Williams.

Eno's story with Britt & Jen ($): https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6270614

Rundown

1:00 Spencer Strider's Return From Internal Brace Surgery

8:56 Fatigue Likely a Factor on Wednesday

15:35 Is Hitting Development Catching Up to Pitching?

29:25 How I'd Pitch This Guy: Jacob Wilson

43:54 What's Behind Gavin Williams' Early Struggles?

51:38 Ambushed! Eno-Proof Trivia?!

Follow Eno on Bluesky: @enosarris.bsky.social

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Trevor May

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno, Britt and DVR discuss the return of Jasson Dominguez for the stretch run, Kumar Rocker's upcoming debut with the Rangers, and the Mets' continued presence in the NL Wild Card race. Plus, they'll discuss the Twins' untimely tailspin, the Royals' rise under J.J. Picollo, and how the current struggles of Justin Verlander might shape the Astros' playoff rotation plans. 

Rundown

1:19 Jasson Dominguez Rejoins the Yankees

8:05 Kumar Rocker to Make MLB Debut on Thursday

13:30 The Mets' Continued Presence in the NL Wild Card Race

26:04 Can the Twins Disrupt Their Tailspin?

39:39 The Royals' Rise Under J.J. Picollo 

55:41 Justin Verlander and the Astros' Playoff Rotation

Follow Eno on Twitter: @enosarris

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Join us Thursday at 1p ET/10a PT for our weekly live episode with Trevor May!

Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels

Hosts: Derek VanRiper, Eno Sarris & Britt Ghiroli

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss an adjustment from Luis Castillo that might help to prolong his peak in 2025 and beyond in the wake of a hamstring injury that could cost him time down the stretch. Plus, they discuss several new relievers in the mix for saves in September, streaming pitchers to consider in the final month, and a few weekend waiver-wire adjustments. 

Rundown

4:10 Luis Castillo's Hamstring Injury & Slider Adjustment

9:23 Jesus Tinoco Joins Late-Season Saves Mix

15:50 Nestor Cortes Jr. Follows Clarke Schmidt; Six-Man Rotation for Now?

21:58 September Streamer Watch

33:57 Increasing Trust in David Peterson

42:07 Is There Anything Behind Elly De La Cruz's Home/Road Splits?

45:44 Pitch Tipping v. Other External Cues (Astros Trash Can Banging)

54:50 Where the Money Went: Trevor Story is Back!

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss Reynaldo López and Ronel Blanco as two of this season's pleasant pitching surprises and wonder what's next for the duo, as well as other relievers who might be able to follow López's path to the rotation in 2025. Plus, they discuss endgame strategy for lineup decisions in rotisserie leagues, a potential sleeper in the Oakland outfield for next season, and a few weekend waiver-wire targets, including a pair of old starters chewing up innings effectively for the Guardians.

Rundown

5:02 Reynaldo López: Top-20 Starter (So Far) in 2024!

12:00 A Few Success Stories Moving from the Bullpen to Rotation

15:34 Endgame Lineup Decisions in Rotisserie Leagues

20:49 Another Way the Royals Have Helped Their Run Prevention Cause

29:00 Differences in Major and Minor League Baseballs

34:18 Why Eno Prefers Jackson Jobe to Kumar Rocker

37:11 Another Outfielder Tracking Toward a 2025 Opportunity

44:52 Weekend Waiver Wire Preview

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Join us on Thursdays at 1p ET/10a PT for our livestream episodes!

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno, Trevor and DVR discuss Matt Chapman's six-year extension with the Giants, a combined no-hitter for the Cubs, who are clinging to slim playoff hopes with three-and-a-half weeks remaining in the regular season. Plus, they discuss baseball's replay system with *10* years now on the ledger and wonder how things might improve in the next 10 years, and they begin a quest to find baseball's most unpredictable (and predictable) pitchers and pitches.

Rundown

1:13 Matt Chapman Signs a Six-Year Extension with the Giants

9:04 What's Next for the Giants In Their Push to Return to the Playoffs?

14:55 A Combined No-Hitter From the Cubs

20:26 Baseball's Replay System Turns 10

27:38 We're Ready for the Ball & Strike Call Challenges

34:30 Quantifying a Pitcher's Predictability

Related reading 'The Search for the Most Predictable Pitcher' by Kiri Oler of FanGraphs: https://blogs.fangraphs.com/the-search-for-the-most-predictable-pitcher/

40:52 The Surprising Profile of Josh Hader's Fastball

46:07 The Relationship Between Low Release Points & High iVB

52:13 Trevor Finds the Root Cause of David Bednar's Struggles

59:49 Camilo Doval's Running Cutter and a Rare Instance of 'Weird' Not Being Good

Follow Eno on Twitter: @enosarris

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels

Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Trevor May

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss the Padres getting healthy for the stretch run as Yu Darvish will rejoin the rotation this week on the heels of Fernando Tatis Jr.'s activation from the IL and Joe Musgrove's last-season success. Plus, they discuss what they would look for to get in front of a pitcher's hot streak, the recent struggles of Taj Bradley and George Kirby, Justin Verlander's post-IL Stuff+ numbers, and a FAAB hammer used to add Dylan Crews as Eno chases down a title. 

Rundown

3:49 The Padres Are Returning to Full Strength

13:35 Kyle Tucker Approaching Activation (Similarities to Tatis' Injury)

20:15 David Bednar Removed From Closer Role

23:14 Looking Beyond Fastball Velocity for Pitchers Heating Up

Related Reading 'Baseball's 'Hot Hand' Is Real: https://fivethirtyeight.com/features/baseballs-hot-hand-is-real/ (Rob Arthur & Greg Matthews)

29:08 What Happened to Taj Bradley?

36:51 What Is Going On With George Kirby?

40:16 Jackson Merrill is a Top ____ Player in 2025

50:36 Justin Verlander's Post-IL Stuff Numbers

53:05 Eno Throws the Hammer to Get Dylan Crews

Follow Eno on Twitter: @enosarris

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss an unfortunate sequence that led to two Royals players suffering an injury Thursday night, uncertainty regarding the availability of Tyler Glasnow down the stretch, several pitching prospects set to debut this weekend including Rhett Lowder and Caden Dana, and a few other intriguing waiver-wire targets to consider.

Rundown

2:44 Vinnie Pasquantino & Lucas Erceg Injured On Same Play

8:36 Tyler Glasnow and Freddie Freeman Updates

15:18 Rhett Lowder Gets the Call From the Reds

20:27 Samuel Aldegheri & Caden Dana Join the Angels

26:30 A Look at Kumar Rocker's Post-Surgery Pitch Mix

29:03 Other Pitchers We're Watching Closely for Potential Stretch Run Opportunities

40:47 Which Team Doesn't Have an Internal Stuff Model?

44:40 Does Ernie Clement Have a Late Breakout Profile?

48:12 Weekend Waiver Preview: Tigers Pitching, José Tena, Miguel Amaya and More Marlins

Follow Eno on Twitter: @enosarris

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/FyBa9f3wFe

Join us on Thursdays at 1p ET/10a PT for our livestream episodes!

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno, Trevor and DVR discuss Oneil Cruz's move to center field and the Pirates' needs in order to take a step forward in 2025, the fast adjustments being made by 'The Jacksons' -- Jackson Merrill, Jackson Chourio, and Jackson Holliday -- that have enabled them to make a significant impact in Year 1.Plus, they discuss swing adjustments being made deeper in counts, the erosion of Corbin Burnes' strikeout rate, and the long-term lack of whiffs from Logan Webb, who continues to generate great ratios despite limited swing-and-miss in his arsenal.

Rundown

1:42 Oneil Cruz Moves to Center Field

11:32 Who’s Next at Shortstop for the Pirates?

15:52 Jackson Merrill & Jackson Chourio’s Fast Adjustments

28:57 Is It Good to Modulate Your Swing by Count?

44:11 Corbin Burnes’ Second-Half Struggles; Long-Term Decline in K%

53:08 A True Whiff Pitch for Logan Webb?

1:02:58 Name That Dude!

Follow Eno on Twitter: @enosarris

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels

Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Trevor May

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno, Britt and DVR discuss the historical context of the 2024 season from Aaron Judge and Juan Soto by taking a look back at elite duos that have had incredible years as teammates. Plus, with the Angels extending Perry Minasian, they wonder if previous levels of payroll spending from Arte Moreno will open up paths to a big free agent signing this winter, before considering several teams that approaching big decisions in their front office during the year ahead. 

Rundown

8:33 How Good Is This Season From Aaron Judge & Juan Soto?

15:20 An Interesting Look at Lineup Protection from Saber Seminar

18:19 Name the Yankees' Seven Cleanup Hitters in 2024

25:02 The Angels Extend Perry Minasian, Will Payroll Rise in 2025?

41:30 Front Offices Entering 2025 on the Hot Seat

51:48 Can the Cubs Make It Work Loading Up in the Second Tier of Free Agency While Their Young Core Arrives?

Follow Eno on Twitter: @enosarris

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper, Eno Sarris & Britt Ghiroli

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

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Eno and DVR discuss the promotion Dylan Crews and one major change in his profile with the move from Double-A to Triple-A earlier this season. After a weekend at the 'Sabermetrics, Scouting, and the Science of Baseball' conference in Chicago, Eno shares a highlights from a few of the many interesting presentations. Plus, they look at the surge of Jhonkensy Noel as an important power source in the Guardians' lineup, and Bowden Francis' move toward Top-50 Starting Pitcher status. 

Rundown

1:02 Dylan Crews Promoted by Nationals

8:36 Xavier Edwards' Partial Season Breakout

13:14 Nolan Gorman's Demotion to Triple-A; What Went Wrong in 2024?

18:22 Eno in Chicago: Saber Conference Takeaways

43:39 Ongoing Studies About the Value of Adding Pitches

56:04 Where the Money Went This Weekend

Follow Eno on Twitter: @enosarris

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Join us on Thursday at 1p ET/10a PT for our next livestream episodes!

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan Bloomfield of Baseball HQ and the Bubba & The Bloom podcast joins DVR discuss the third annual "Meatball Draft" a 15-team draft-and-hold league run by Rob DiPietro (@DeadPullHitter, Pull Hitter Podcast) that drafted its first 11 rounds this week. Who were some of the more interesting risers and fallers, and how should roster construction strategies be altered in a format that drafts this early.

Draft Board: https://tinyurl.com/Meatball24

Plus, DVR and Ryan discuss a couple of prospects they're trying to stash wherever possible, and a few intriguing names to consider on the waiver wire this weekend.

Rundown

1:53 Draft-and-Hold Season Begins with Rob DiPietro's "Meatball Draft"

3:16 How Do You Alter Strategy for Very Early Drafts?

9:12 Paul Skenes v. Tarik Skubal: Round 1 Pitchers

11:27 Biggest Surprises, Movers Compared to Spring 2024

21:12 How Comfortable Are We With Second Tommy John Recovery?

25:17 Pushing Power Over Speed in Early Rounds?

29:55 Jordan Westburg: "Rare" Multi-Eligible Player for 2025

32:07 Corbin Carroll's Recent Resurgence

35:13 Rest-of-Season Projections Thoughts for Final Weeks

40:25 Project Prospect: One Player You're Stashing Everywhere

46:55 Weekend Waiver Preview

Follow Ryan on Twitter: @RyanBHQ

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/FyBa9f3wFe

Join us on Thursdays at 1p ET/10a PT for our livestream episodes!

Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels

Hosts: Derek VanRiper

With: Ryan Bloomfield

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno, DVR, and Jed discuss baseball's annual celebration of Jackie Robinson Day, before examining the Cubs' decision to demote Matt Shaw at Triple-A, the challenge of balancing present needs with long-term player development, and expectations for a trio of fast-starting starting hitters - including Ben Rice, Spencer Torkelson, and Tyler Soderstrom.

Rundown

1:44 Baseball Celebrates Jackie Robinson Day

5:53 Matt Shaw Optioned to Triple-A

10:10 An Unusually Closed Stance & Foot Position

16:52 What Is Fixable at MLB Level, What Requires a Demotion?

22:00 Cam Smith & Aggressive Timetables

31:05 Player Development Is Not Linear: Ben Rice v. Tyler Soderstrom v. Spencer Torkelson

49:05 Best Bet for Long-Term Success?

Follow Eno on Bluesky: @enosarris.bsky.social

Follow DVR on Bluesky: @dvr.bsky.social

e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/FyBa9f3wFe

Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels

Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Jed Lowrie

Producer: Brian Smith

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno, Trevor, and DVR discuss Joey Votto's retirement and his case for Cooperstown, the Mariners' decision to fire manager Scott Servais, and a few park factors for pitchers -- including variations in mounds -- that can impact performances across different environments.Plus, they examine a few pitchers finding new levels in 2024 and try to determine long-term ceilings in search of unexpected aces.Rundown

1:04 Joey Votto Announces Retirement; Next Stop Cooperstown?

13:19 Mariners Fire Manager Scott Servais

26:08 Pitching Park Factors We Rarely Think About

40:56 Searching for Unexpected Aces Among Current Young Starters

52:26 Ryan Pepiot Discusses His Hard Breaking Ball

55:43 Spencer Schwellenbach’s Late Move to PitchingSubscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrelsHosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno SarrisWith: Trevor MayExecutive Producer: Derek VanRiper 

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As things currently stand, no team will finish the regular season with 100+ wins for the first time since 2014. Does the unusual shape of the standings and the lack of exceptional regular season clubs matter? Eno, DVR and Britt discuss the causes for the lack of dominance, and wonder if common approaches to roster construction are a contributing factor to this year's parity. 

Rundown

2:47 Does It Matter If There Are No 100-Win Teams?

8:11 Measuring Team Quality Beyond Win Totals

12:48 Will Long-Term Injury Trends Make This Type of Season the Norm?

15:28 Regular Season Dominance That Didn't Lead to a World Series Win

21:05 How Mad Would You Be Without Playoffs?

24:23 Unique Approaches From Guardians & Red Sox

32:46 Organizational Brain Drain

39:53 Will the Red Sox Make the Playoffs?

47:04 How Does 2025 Look for Boston, Tampa Bay and Toronto?

Follow Eno on Twitter: @enosarris

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Britt on Twitter: @Britt_Ghiroli

e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/FyBa9f3wFe

Join us Thursday at 2p ET/11a PT for our weekly live episode with Trevor May!

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What’s the Orioles’ secret to developing great hitters? Rival teams have theories ($):

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5696854

The Red Sox have an innovative pitching strategy, but has the league adjusted? ($):

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5704202

Hosts: Derek VanRiper, Eno Sarris & Britt Ghiroli

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss the expectations of a tapering per-start workload for Paul Skenes as the season winds down, the second-half adjustments to usage of Garrett Crochet by the White Sox, an explanation for Ke'Bryan Hayes 2024 struggles, the most disappointing pitchers of the year -- relative to initial projections -- and a few weekend happenings on the waiver wire, including the return of Matthew Boyd and growing interest in A's starter Osvaldo Bido. 

Rundown

2:18 Paul Skenes Approaching In-Start Limitations?

8:07 At Least They're Not Going the Shutdown Route

14:31 Garrett Crochet's 2025 Outlook

17:29 The Dreaded Velocity Leaderboard w/Injuries

25:18 Ke'Bryan Hayes Playing Through a Herniated Disc

29:11 Biggest Underperforming Pitches of 2024 (So Far)

39:06 Accounting for Different Run Environments Across Projection Systems

49:20 Where the Money Went This Weekend

Follow Eno on Twitter: @enosarris

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/FyBa9f3wFe

Join us on Thursdays at 1p ET/10a PT for our livestream episodes!

Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels

Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.