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Explore every episode of the podcast Breakfast with the Beats

Dive into the complete episode list for Breakfast with the Beats. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
FBB 1 - Brewers Talk with Curt Hogg13 Dec 202401:29:00

Fantasy Baseball Beat

Curt covers the Milwaukee Brewers at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, and his work can be found at: https://www.jsonline.com/staff/2648119001/curt-hogg/

Players discussed: 

Devin Williams (before the trade), Trevor Megill, Christian Yelich, Brandon Woodruff, Aaron Ashby, DL Hall, Logan Henderson, Garrett Mitchell.....and more.

Then the guys go over three picks within the top 100 that they dislike, which go into the first round.

Finally, how do you pronounce repertoire?


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FBB 018 - Look Who's Trending!17 May 202500:47:46

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

Look Who's Trending!

The guys are back with a banger, discussing all things baseball-related.

  1. Who do they prefer rest-of-season: Jacob deGrom or Hunter Brown
  2. Beat Writer Breakdown:
    1. What's wrong with Aaron Nola?
    2. What should the Mets do with their pitching? Players discussed
      1. Frankie Montas Jr.
      2. Paul Blackburn
      3. Sean Manaea
  3. Playing Time Trends that you need to know about. Players discussed
    1. Drake Baldwin
    2. Sean Murphy
    3. Josh Smith
    4. Trent Grisham
    5. Ben Rice
    6. Paul Goldschmidt
    7. Giancarlo Stanton
    8. Trey Sweeney
    9. Andy Pages
  4. Mike is here to talk bullpens. Players discussed
    1. Jeff Hoffman
    2. Luke Jackson
    3. Robert Garcia
    4. Shawn Armstrong
    5. Camilo Doval
    6. Ryan Walker
    7. Randy Rodríguez
    8. Ryan Pressly
    9. Porter Hodge
  5. Finally, our Mental Health moment, where we discuss Cognitive Distortions and how these irrational thoughts can overtake our livelihood.

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FBB 017 - Two and a Half Men Talking Baseball10 May 202500:46:23

Mike and Dave (and possibly Chris) are back with another episode of The Fantasy Baseball Beat. In this edition, the guys discuss:

Rafael Devers and the Boston Red Sox situation at first base

Their best free agent pickups this season in fantasy

Is this Javier Báez resurgance for real?

Can Gavin Lux carve out and maintain a role on the Reds?

Then, they look through Eno Sarris and his ten early-season trends that warrant attention. From his list, the guys discuss:

The Dodgers' pitching woes

What to expect from Michael Toglia and the Rockies going forward.

The disappointment that is known as Yusei Kikuchi

Finally, the guys have their Mental Health Moment and discuss the ways that they spoil themselves when warranted.


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FBB 008 - Why Did You Make That Pick?01 Mar 202501:07:11

Fantasy Baseball Beat

The guys review their current draft picks with Nathan Grimm

Mike, Dave, and Chris go over the most actionable news out of Spring Training:

Nathan Grimm joins the show, and Colt Keith is the topic of discussion on how we assess rookies and second-year players in their earliest seasons.  

Nathan takes a moment to roast the guys in a way that encapsulates their qualities and characteristics perfectly. 

Then we take a look at Mike's GLARF draft. Players discussed:

Dave gives an update on Brayan Bello's health before giving his risk assessment grade.

Nathan's SLARF team is examined as well. Players discussed:

We answer an important listener question about stacking players from the same team.

Finally, it's time for the Mental Health Minute.


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FBB 007 - Talking Orioles with Jake Rill22 Feb 202501:06:06

Fantasy Baseball Beat

The guys talk with Jake Rill from mlb.com about the Orioles

Jake Rill joins the gang from Spring Training to talk about the Baltimore Orioles in 2025. Topics include:

Afterward, the guys discuss their favorite Baltimore Orioles at their costs:

The guys talk about pitchers they love:

The guys then finish off the episode with a listener question and the Mental Health Minute.


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FBB 006 - Hitters We Love16 Feb 202500:49:52

Fantasy Baseball Beat

The guys discuss the hitters that they love.

 

The boys are back and go position by position to discuss the hitters that they love the most.

Catcher

  • Gabriel Moreno
  • Ivan Herrera
  • Shea Langeliers

First Base

  • Nathaniel Lowe
  • Cody Bellinger
  • Paul Goldschmidt

Second Base

  • Jonathan India
  • Brandon Lowe
  • Jordan Westburg

Shortstop

  • Jeremy Pena
  • Bo Bichette
  • Francisco Lindor

Third Base

  • Luis Rengifo
  • Isaac Paredes
  • Matt Chapman

Outfield

  • Jung Hoo Lee
  • Ian Happ
  • Dylan Crews

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FBB 005 - Talking Ballparks08 Feb 202501:15:54

Fantasy Baseball Beat

The guys discuss ballpark changes and tendencies, players changing teams, and bullpen decisions.

 

After some behind the curtain details are discussed, four ballparks are discussed:

  1. Sutter Health Park - The Athletics
    1. What can we expect offensively in the new ballpark?
    2. What were the minor-league tendencies there?
    3. Should we expect a big change?
    4. Are we in on Lawrence Butler and Brent Rooker?
  2. Camden Yards - Baltimore Orioles
    1. What is the most important thing fantasy owners should know about this change?
    2. Which hitters should receive a boost?
    3. How much do we like Tyler O'Neill, Ryan Mountcastle, and Jordan Westburg?
    4. What is Mike's strategy at first base and shortstop?
  3. Steinbrenner Stadium - Tampa Bay Rays
    1. What differences can we expect with this ballpark compared to Tropicana Field?
    2. Will we see more offense?
    3. Does Dave like or love Jonathan Aranda?
  4. T-Mobile Park - Seattle Mariners
    1. Why is this ballpark such a difficult place to hit?
    2. Who else knew about their umbrella roof?
    3. What will your draft strategy be when assessing Mariners hitters and pitchers?

The guys look at hitters changing ballparks:

  1. Jake Burger
  2. Michael Conforto
  3. Paul Goldschmidt
  4. Gleyber Torres
  5. Kyle Tucker

Mike talks about bullpens:

  1. What does the Carlos Estévez signing mean for Lucas Erceg?
  2. Is Andrés Muñoz an elite closer?
  3. How undervalued are David Bednar and Trevor Megill?
  4. Has Chris discovered a new closer that nobody else knows?

Mental Health Minute - What are your favorite ballparks?

 


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FBB 004 - Laura Albanese and the Amazin' Mets!01 Feb 202501:13:41

Fantasy Baseball Beat

First, the guys talk with Laura Albanese about the Mets:

  • What's the latest on Pete Alonso and how important is he to the Mets?
  • What happens if they don't bring back Alonso?
  • What does the lineup currently look like?
  • Thoughts on the rotation, specifically with Paul Blackburn and Tylor Megill
  • Is Sean Manaea an ace?
  • How good is Edwin Diaz, and who is next in line?
  • Who within their Minor League organization can surprise us in 2024?

Then Laura plays Over/Under with the following players in mind:

Finally, Laura gives us her prediction on what new trend may surface in 2025 within Major League Baseball....and it's a great one!

 

Afterwards, the guys discuss Christopher's latest Twitter battle regarding the draft price of Mark Vientos. They also reflect on the latest on the injury to Brandon Nimmo and forecast his season.

Dave's Injury History and Risk pieces are used as a way to discuss surprising injuries at catcher, first base, and second base, specifically talking about:

Finally, as always, there's the Mental Health Minute.

 

 


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FBB 03 - Talking Royals with Jaylon Thompson, Injury Risk with Dave McDonald18 Jan 202501:44:56

Fantasy Baseball Beat

 

Talking Kansas City Royals and assessing injury risk

 

Jaylon Thompson from The Kansas City Star visits the guys to talk about the Royals:

Dave McDonald joins the show and gives some very helpful tips and tricks for how to construct a roster and explains so by assessing all of the different risks involved when playing fantasy baseball.

Both Dave McDonald and Dave Funnell give their risk ratings on:

Mike digs deep to discuss Jeff Hoffman, Robert Suarez, and Ryan Walker, before the rest of the guys discuss the latest injury news on Hoffman.

Sean Burke is addressed, leading Chris to do something that he never thought he would do.

Finally, the Mental Health Minute brings about familiar names from our past, but just how old is Dave Funnell's player?


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FBB 02 - Talking Diamondbacks w/ Jack Sommers04 Jan 202501:11:30

Fantasy Baseball Beat

Jack Sommers from Sports Illustrated visits the show to talk all things Diamondbacks:

 Mike gives his two cents on the Arizona bullpen.

Early ADP Discussion: Which players do the guys not like being drafted in between the 100 - 200 pick range?

Dave goes over the offseason and futures of three injured pitchers:

Mental Health Minute


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FBB 016 - Interesting Rest-of-Season Projections03 May 202501:10:41

Fantasy Baseball Beat

Interesting Rest-of-Season Projections

The guys are back to discuss all things baseball.

They start with Breaking News, as Jake Burger got demoted.

Then the guys discuss their own fantasy teams, discussing progress and mistakes that they've made.

After that, the following rest-of-season projections are examined. Players discussed:

Looking at injuries, Mike and Chris ask Dave about updates to players they are rostering. Players discussed:

Looking at bullpens, Mike discusses the key situations for some teams in dire need of clarity. Players discussed:

Finally, our Mental Health Moment of the Week: How is mental health like a bank account with withdrawals and deposits? And how do the guys make sure that their account is always on the plus side?


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FBB 015 - Diamond Mines: Fantasy Gold in the Desert with Jack Sommers26 Apr 202501:05:20

Fantasy Baseball Beat

Diamond Mines: Fantasy Gold in the Desert with Jack Sommers

The guys welcome back Jack Sommers to talk all things Diamondbacks. Players discussed:

The guys then talk about the players in Arizona they're buying right now.

After that, Dave talks about injuries. Players discussed:

Then Mike talks about the crazy world of bullpens. Players discussed:

Finally, the topic for this week's "Mental Health Moment" is the idea of conflict and how the guys have learned to deal with it over the years.


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FBB 014 - Don't Chicken Out on Ben Rice, with Michael Cecchini19 Apr 202501:08:34

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

The guys welcome Michael Cecchini to the show

 

Michael Cecchini joins the guys to discuss all things baseball.

Michael discusses the following topics:

  • his background in fantasy baseball playing and writing
  • stabilization points for different player metrics, such as strikeout rate, walk rate, ground ball rate, fly ball rate, and more
  • how much does Stuff play into figuring out which pitchers to roster

Beat Writer Roundup

The guys discuss two articles:

1. "Ben Rice 'a real hitter' out of the leadoff spot for the Yankees - by Bryan Hoch. Topics discussed:

  • the start of his 2025 season
  • what happens if and when Giancarlo Stanton returns
  • the scouting process for Ben Rice
  • his offseason regimen
  • is chicken the ultimate food?

2. "Aranda homers again, claims best OPS in baseball - by Adam Berry. Topics discussed:

  • Aranda's offseason work
  • the start of his 2025 season
  • his underlying metrics
  • is this sustainable?
  • the ballpark in Tampa Bay

Waiver Wire Adds

The guys look at one player they like for the next week and then some for 12-team and 15-team leagues. Players discussed:

  • Sean Murphy
  • Harrison Bader
  • Joc Pederson
  • J.T. Ginn
  • Ryan Gusto

Mental Health Moment

The question of the week: What are some habits, no matter how small, that you’ve incorporated into your daily routine in an effort to maintain your wellness? 


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FBB 013 - The Veen Machine Arrives: Rockies Talk with Thomas Harding12 Apr 202501:04:57

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

The Veen Machine Arrives: Talking Rockies with Thomas Harding

 

The guys began the show by previewing their upcoming discussion with Thomas Harding by discussing Zac Veen. How aggressive will Chris, Mike, and Dave be this weekend when they can add him to their lineups, and what concerns Dave more than anything?

After that, Kyren Paris enters the discussion, as the guys examine his recent success and what they speculate will happen. Is he someone that the majority of your FAAB dollars should be spent on?

Mike then talks about bullpen situations and what could happen next with the following players:

Thomas Harding joins the show to discuss the following topics:

  • Is Zac Veen for real, and will he keep the right-field job?
  • Can Michael Toglia turn things around?
  • What's new and peculiar with Ezequiel Tovar this year?
  • What is the culture like in the clubhouse and around the team?
  • Can Chase Dollander solve Coors Field?
  • Who will be the team's closer?
  • Which player in the Minor Leagues can make an impact in 2025?
  • What's the latest on Drew Romo?

Finally, the guys transition into the Mental Health Moment and discuss the importance of mental health for men and women, and what works for them when negative thoughts enter their heads.


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FBB 012 - Let's Overreact with Ryan Bloomfield05 Apr 202500:52:50

Fantasy Baseball Beat

The guys welcome Ryan Bloomfield to the show.

Firstly, they all discuss The Baseball Forecaster and how it's an important piece of fantasy baseball goodness.

Then, they go over FOMO picks. Players discussed:

After that, the guys go over players who have increased their velocity thus far. Players discussed:

The guys then review some beat writer articles and go over the following topics:

Then the guys delve into the world of torpedo bats and how important they are this early in the season.

Small sample alert! Players discussed:

Finally, the Mental Health Minute


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FBB 011 - Halos and High Stakes Drafts with Jeff Fletcher and Dan Prepas22 Mar 202501:12:49

Fantasy Baseball Beat

The guys talk about the Angels with Jeff Fletcher and Dan Prepas and then review Chris' big weekend of drafts.

 

Players discussed:

 

From there, Dan Prepas joins the gang and discusses life as a fan of the Angels, while answering the questions:

 

Then the guys examine Chris' teams from last weekend's Main Event and ToutWars.

  • Comparing both formats
  • How Chris prepared for these drafts
  • How money was allocated within the various positions
  • How having spots on the Injured List was treated
  • Surprise picks and values

Players discussed:

Plus, who is Chris' deep sleeper pick at the end of drafts?

Finally, our Mental Health Minute


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FBB 010 - Spring Training Standouts with Thomas Nestico15 Mar 202501:05:50

Fantasy Baseball Beat

Thomas Nestico joins the show to discuss Spring Training Standouts.

First, Thomas answers the questions of:

Then, we break down four pitchers who are rising up draft boards because of their early-spring performances:

Which player performances are worrisome?

Thomas then explains two important metrics that he uses in his analysis and players who are affected by them:

Looking back, Thomas pegged these players as potential breakouts in February. After having seen them play this spring, does he still view them the same way?

Finally, it's our Mental Health Minute.


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FBB 009 - The Power of the Schwartz!08 Mar 202501:04:59

Fantasy Baseball Beat

The guys talk with Nate Schwartz about a variety of topics

 

The guys welcome FSWA Award-winning writer Nate Schwartz, who joins the group to discuss his Process+ piece. Things discussed:

Dave then goes through injury updates on the following players:

Nate is then asked to discuss his latest article about Zebby Matthews:

Mike talks bullpens, discussing the following players and their situations:

Nate and the gang go through their Spring Training observations. Some players of note:

Finally, the Mental Health Minute.


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FBB 037 - The Brew Crew with Curt Hogg27 Sep 202500:58:15

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

FBB 037 - The Brew Crew with Curt Hogg

Welcome to the Fantasy Baseball Beat. The gang discusses:

Before Curt Hogg joins the show to discuss:

Finally, we have our Mental Health Moment, where we discuss the power of gratitude.


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FBB 036 - The Roman Empire, with Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com20 Sep 202500:54:19

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

FBB 036 - The Roman Empire, with Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com

 

Welcome to The Fantasy Baseball Beat!

In this episode, the gang discusses their fantasy leagues as we finish off the season:

  • How is Mike doing in his leagues?
  • Who the heck did Dave just add in his home league?
  • What mistake did Chris make in a pivotal moment?

Then, the guys discuss some of their favorite players for the Red Sox in 2026. Players discussed:

Before they finish their time together, the guys discuss:

After a quick break, Chris Cotillo joins the program to discuss:

And more.

Thanks for listening.


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FBB 027 - Drafting for the Second Half19 Jul 202501:01:59

Drafting for the Second Half

 

Welcome to the Fantasy Baseball Beat!

In today's episode, all three guys are here to discuss the following topics:

Mike examines bullpen situations that could change with the trade deadline. Players discussed:

Emmanuel Clase, Mason Miller, Félix Bautista, Raisel Iglesias, Kenley Jansen, Cade Smith, Jack Perkins, Andrew Kittredge, Dylan Lee, and Enyel De los Santos, Reid Detmers

Dave looks at different players who should and should not be stashed. Players discussed:

Ryan Mountcastle, Luke Keaschall, Spencer Arrighetti, Michael King, Shane Bieber, Bailey Ober, Shane McClanahan, Grayson Rodriguez, Bryce Miller, Spencer Schwellenbach

Finally, in our Mental Health Moment, the guys discuss their thoughts on the term "manning up".


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FBB 026 - Fantasy All-Stars and White Sox Talk with Scott Merkin of MLB.com12 Jul 202501:08:01

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

Fantasy All-Stars and White Sox Talk with Scott Merkin of MLB.com

Welcome to The Fantasy Baseball Beat

In today's episode, Mike interviews Scott Merkin of mlb.com and asks him about:

Then, Chris and Dave join the show to discuss their Fantasy All-Stars. 

Finally, for our Mental Health Moment, the guys discuss the correlation between healthy eating and mental health.


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FBB 025 - Trade Deadline Targets05 Jul 202500:54:13

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

Trade Deadline Targets

 

Welcome to The Fantasy Baseball Beat

Mike and Dave are here to discuss all things fantasy-related.

  1. Both guys go over a difficult decision that they have had to make in their leagues
    1. Should Dave upgrade at the first base position?
    2. Should Mike give up on two struggling pitchers?
  2. Then they discuss two beat writer articles
    1. How are the Astros weathering the storm amid their injuries?
    2. What's the latest with Shane McClanahan? When will Drew Rasmussen be shut down?
  3. Mike and Dave discuss injuries and bullpens as they examine four teams that were once buyers but now may be turned into sellers, given their injury concerns. Which players might see their fantasy values change because of an impending trade? Players discussed:
    1. Dean Kremer
    2. Trevor Rogers
    3. Brandon Young
    4. Tomoyuki Sugano
    5. Charlie Morton
    6. Gary Sánchez
    7. Jacob Stallings
    8. Pedro Severino
    9. Samuel Basallo
    10. Zach Eflin
    11. Grayson Rodriguez
    12. Adley Rutschman
    13. Ryan Mountcastle
    14. Ryan O'Hearn
    15. Gregory Soto
    16. Seranthony Domínguez
    17. Shelby Miller
    18. Zac Gallen
    19. Gabriel Moreno
    20. Corbin Carroll
    21. Marcell Ozuna
    22. Michael Harris II
    23. Ozzie Albies
    24. Reynaldo López
    25. Chris Sale
    26. Spencer Schwellenbach
    27. AJ Smith-Shawver
    28. Raisel Iglesias
    29. Seth Lugo
    30. Drew Waters
    31. John Rave
    32. Kyle Isbel
    33. Tom Glavine
    34. Carlos Estévez
    35. Lucas Erceg
    36. Daniel Lynch IV
    37. Michael Wacha
    38. Michael Lorenzen
    39. Hunter Harvey
    40. Cole Ragans
  4. Finally, in our Mental Health Moment, the guys discuss how to stay sane during the hustle and bustle of the holidays.

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FBB 024 - I want my Biscoff Cookie, with Jaylon Thompson28 Jun 202500:55:12

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

I want my Biscoff Cookie, with Jaylon Thompson

 

The guys are back with a brand new episode.This week, they're talking about the Kansas City Royals with reporter Jaylon Thompson from The Kansas City Star. Topics discussed:

  • First impressions of Jac Caglinone
  • Cole Ragans' injury update
  • Kris Bubic and his rest-of-season output
  • Maikel Garcia and his All-Star-like performance
  • Michael Massey and his role with the team
  • Standouts in their minor league system
  • Which players impress him
  • Funny and interesting travel stories

The guys then do their fantasy follow-up, discussing if Salvador Perez is a buy-low candidate.

Torres explains why Emmet Sheehan is his pickup of the week.

Davey Downer isn't down on everyone, as he actually likes a player. Find out if it's Kodai Senga, Hunter Greene, Aaron Nola, or Blake Snell

Finally, all three guys discuss the connection between sleep and mental health in the Mental Health Moment.


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FBB 023 - Davey Downer21 Jun 202501:06:45

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

Davey Downer

 

The gang is back with an all-new episode.

First, the guys talk about their best free agent pickups over the past week. Find out what Mike has been up to as well as who Dave laid the hammer down upon.

Then, the guys examine two beat writer articles, examining the youth in Washington, specifically Brady House, and the positives coming out of Boston with the recent trading away of Rafael Devers.

After that, three of them examine hot hitters and pitchers and see if these recent streaks are for real. Players discussed:

Dave discusses three injuries that he's keeping an eye on and reveals why he thinks they're important. players discussed:

Mike goes over four bullpens and discusses players he's watching. Players discussed:

Finally, our Mental Health Moment, where we recognize June as Men's Mental Health Month and discuss the strategies we use to approach the subject of mental health with other male friends. What's the best way to have that difficult discussion?


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FBB 022 - Buy Low and Sell High14 Jun 202501:07:30

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

Buy Low and Sell High

 

The guys are back with a brand new episode, and this show is loaded.

  1. It's performance evaluation time, as Chris and Dave open the books on numbers, listeners, content, and more. Will Mike survive?
  2. The Beat Writer Roundup features three articles:
    1. Is what Jeff McNeil is doing for real?
    2. How has Evan Carter grown on and off the field?
    3. Have the White Sox had their prayers answered with their biggest fan?
  3. Players to Buy Low and Sell High on:
    1. Jacob Wilson
    2. Cal Raleigh
    3. Pete Crow-Armstrong
    4. Brenton Doyle
    5. Josh Lowe
    6. Corey Seager
  4. Making sense of the bullpens
    1. Is Raisel Iglesias out of a job?
    2. What's going on with Jordan Romano?
    3. Will the Dodgers ever make up their minds?
  5. Mental Health Moment
    1. The guys all reveal parent-related problems that they've recently had and explain how they got through those situations.

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FBB 021 - Tigertown Talk with Jason Beck07 Jun 202500:59:22

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

Tigertown Talk with Jason Beck

 

Jason Beck joins The Fantasy Baseball Beat to discuss all things Detroit Tigers. Topics and players discussed:

After that, Chris and Dave examine their best and worst fantasy teams, reviewing the decisions they once made, the decisions they could have made, and the decisions they might make.

Finally, our Mental Health moment, where Chris and Dave discuss cognitive diffusion techniques.


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FBB 020 - Bullpen Bonanza31 May 202500:39:12

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

Bullpen Bonanza

 

The Fantasy Baseball Beat is back with a bullpen-heavy episode. Every team's bullpen is discussed with analysis, insight, and tips on how to manage the most difficult position to project. Topics discussed:

  • How each team attacks the closer position
  • The difference between listening to the manager's words as opposed to watching what the manager does
  • High-leverage situations versus full-fledged closers
  • Closers-by-committees
  • Individual stats that stand out
  • How contracts can dictate opportunities

After that, we have the Mental Health Moment, where the idea of taking a moment and pressing the pause button can be a valuable practice before we go on the attack. How important is it to take stock of a situation, process what happened, and then make an informed decision based on facts and not just raw emotions?


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FBB 019- Brewers to Buy w/ Curt Hogg24 May 202501:04:14

Brewers to Buy w/ Curt Hogg

The guys are back, and this week's guest is all things Brewers. Curt Hogg joins us to discuss the following topics:

  1. Jackson Chourio and his slow start
  2. Joey Ortiz and the disappointing beginning to the season
  3. Logan Henderson and his early career numbers
  4. Brice Turang and his 2025 improvements
  5. Injury updates on Brandon Woodruff and Garrett Mitchell
  6. The vibe around this team
  7. Prospects to monitor
  8. Jacob Misiorowski and his potential

We then play a guessing game, as Mike tries to list the Top 10 home run leaders and Dave tries to list the Top 10 stolen Base leaders.

Dave then discusses a player that worries him immensely: Bryce Miller

Finally, the Mental Health Moment discusses breathing and its importance for our everyday functioning.


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FBB 035 - The Rise of Konnor Griffin w/Pirates Beat Writer Noah Hiles13 Sep 202501:01:17

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

The Rise of Konnor Griffin w/Pirates Beat Writer Noah Hiles

 

Welcome to The Fantasy Baseball Beat!

In today's episode, Noah Hiles of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette joins us to discuss all things Pittsburgh Pirates. Players discussed:

and many more!

Then, Mike and Dave join Chris to discuss their favorite Pirates players heading into the 2026 season and speculate on where Oneil Cruz will and should land in drafts next year.

Finally, for our Mental Health Moment, we discuss the books that have had the most profound effect on our well-being.


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FBB 034 - Cleveland Rocks - with Henry Palattella from Mlb.com06 Sep 202500:54:29

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

Cleveland Rocks - with Henry Palattella from MLB.com

 

Welcome to The Fantasy Baseball Beat

On this episode, the guys are back together, and they welcome Henry Palattella from MLB.com to talk Cleveland Guardians baseball. Topics discussed:

After that, the guys get into their favourite players for the Guardians in 2026.

Before they move on, Chris and Mike call Dave out for his fears about "Top 5 player" José Ramírez.

Finally, our Mental Health Moment, where the guys discuss how sports are a great channel that can bring people together.


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FBB 033 - Is it Safe to Drop These Players?30 Aug 202500:58:19

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

Is it Safe to Drop These Players?

 

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

Is it Safe to Drop These Players?

 

Welcome to The Fantasy Baseball Beat

In today's episode, the guys go over their fantasy MVP and Cy Young candidates....players who have been helpful all season. Players discussed:

  • Cal Raleigh
  • Jeff Hoffman
  • Riley Greene
  • Garret Crochet

Then the guys look at underperforming players and figure out if they could or should be drooped down the stretch for a hot hand. With fantasy playoffs around the corner, here are some considerations:

  • Oneil Cruz
  • Willson Contreras
  • Jackson Merrill
  • Steven Kwan
  • Lawrence Butler
  • Ian Happ
  • Nick Castellanos
  • Luis Castillo
  • Aaron Nola
  • Kodai Senga
  • Tanner Bibee
  • MacKenzie Gore
  • Jose Berrios
  • Seth Lugo

Finally, our Mental Health Moment, where we talk about being parents to children at an age where they may not need us as much as they used to.


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FBB 032 - Surviving Spencer Strider with Stephen Tolbert23 Aug 202500:54:09

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

Surviving Spencer Strider with Stephen Tolbert

 

Welcome to The Fantasy Baseball Beat

In today's episode, we welcome Stephen Tolbert to the show to discuss all things Atlanta Braves. Topics discussed:

Finally, in our Mental Health Moment, the guys discuss what's important for them these days and what helps them maintain a positive outlook.


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FBB 031 - The Citi FIeld Storyteller Laura Albanese16 Aug 202500:40:32

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

The Citi FIeld Storyteller Laura Albanese

Welcome to the Fantasy Baseball Beat

Laura Albanese from Newsday joins the show to discuss all things New York Mets. Topics discussed:

  1. The vibe in the clubhouse throughout this tailspin
  2. Francisco Lindor's struggles
  3. The Trade Deadline and players that were and were not moved
  4. Tylor Megill's role when he returns
  5. Pete Alonso's past, present, and future
  6. Juan Soto's first season as a Met
  7. Nolan McClean's future
  8. What it's like to be a female reporter in a male-dominated industry
  9. The best food in Citi Field

Finally, Chris shares a touching story in our Mental Health Moment


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FBB 030 - Injury Talk with Dave McDonald09 Aug 202501:01:25

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

Injury Talk with Dave McDonald

 

Welcome to The Fantasy Baseball Beat!

In today's episode, the gang is back together, and this week they're joined by Dave McDonald.

First, everyone discusses their best moments of the week and brings about updates on their seasons.

Then, the group discusses Bo Bichette's success and why we should have been in on him entering the year.

We go over lessons learned that we can use heading into next season.

After that, the guys rank groups of players for their potential rest-of-season value. Players examined:

- Coby Mayo

- Tyler Locklear

- Warming Bernabel

- Joey Wentz

- Anthony DeSclafani

- Travis Adams

- Dennis Santana

- Jose A. Ferrer

- JoJo Romero

Finally, our mental health moment, where we take a moment to appreciate the smaller moments in life.


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FBB 029 - Trade Deadline Speculation02 Aug 202501:15:07

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

Trade Deadline Speculation

Welcome to the Fantasy Baseball Beat

Today, Mike and Dave discuss their thoughts on the wildest trade deadline in years. First, they look at the biggest names that were not dealt. Players discussed: Zac Gallen, Dylan Cease, Raisel Iglesias, Joe Ryan, Luis Robert Jr..

Dave goes through the teams that he thinks did the best job trading at the deadline. Teams addressed:

  • Baltimore Orioles
  • San Diego Padres
  • Houston Astros
  • Arizona Diamondbacks
  • Seattle Mariners
  • Los Angeles Dodgers

Dave then gives the teams whose moves he questions the most at the deadline. Teams addressed:

  • Chicago White Sox
  • Pittsburgh Pirates
  • Milwaukee Brewers
  • Chicago Cubs
  • Boston Red Sox
  • Atlanta Braves

Mike then does his best to summarize the insanity that is bullpens after the trade deadline. Players discussed:

Closer Speculation after trades:

Finally, our Mental Health moment, where we discuss strategies to avoid doom-scrolling.


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FBB 028 - D'Backs Deadline Discussion with Jack Sommers of OnSI26 Jul 202500:36:01

The Fantasy Baseball Beat

Down in the Desert with Jack Sommers

 

Welcome to the Fantasy Baseball Beat! In this week's episode, we talk to Jack Sommers, who is a Diamondbacks beat writer at Arizona Diamondbacks On SI and the co-host of the Snakes Territory Podcast. The guys discuss the following topics:

Jack then gives us a unique "behind the scenes" story from his time with the team this season.

Finally, we invite Jack to take part in our Mental Health Moment, where we all discuss what we're doing to take care of ourselves mentally and physically these days.


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BWB 003 - Rocky Roads Ahead26 Apr 202601:02:44

Welcome to Breakfast With The Beats. In this episode, Mike and Dave discuss:

  1. One month into the season, what's one statistic that they both can't believe is true?
  2. Beat Writer Round Up:
    1. What if Shohei Ohtani can put it all together this season?
    2. Is what Randy Vasquez is doing here legitimate?
    3. Did Shane McClanahan really use fishing to get himself healthy?
  3. Help!
    1. Dave can't believe that he actually likes Antonio Senzatela and Chase Dollander.
    2. Mike needs help figuring out what to do with Justin Crawford and Vinnie Pasquantino.
  4. Stash or Pass?
    1. Edwin Díaz
    2. Raisel Iglesias
    3. Daniel Palencia
    4. Jhoan Duran
  5. Mental Health Moment:
    1. How do we handle the pressures of going into work, even if we're not 100%?

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BWB 002 - Baseball players are humans, too19 Apr 202601:01:34

BWB 002 - Baseball players are humans, too

 

Welcome to Breakfast with the Beats with Mike Carter and Dave Funnell. On today's episode,

  1. Mike and Dave go over their best free agent pickups of the week:
    1. Dave - Jeremiah Jackson
    2. Mike - Max Muncy
  2. Beat writer round-up:
    1. Does Yankees manager Aaron Boone view Ben Rice as a platoon player? 'Hell no'
      https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7196965/2026/04/15/ben-rice-yankees-platoon-aaron-boone/
      by Chris Kirschner
    2. Once a far-away dream, the Pirates' talented, homegrown rotation has become reality
      https://www.mlb.com/pirates/news/pirates-are-mlb-s-team-with-an-entirely-homegrown-starting-rotation
      by Jason Mackey
    3. 'He crushed it': Schultz K's 4 in MLB debut as proud family cheers him on
      https://www.mlb.com/whitesox/news/noah-schultz-makes-mlb-debut-for-white-sox?t=mlb-pipeline-coverage
      by Scott Merkin
    4. Hoerner's minor swing adjustments paying major dividends for Cubs
      https://www.mlb.com/news/nico-hoerner-has-career-high-five-rbis-to-lead-cubs-to-win
      by Jordan Bastian
  3. Help!
    1. What should Mike do with Matt McLain?
  4. Major League Mental Health: Kazuma Okamoto vs Tatsuya Imai
    1. How Okamoto is handling the Major League learning curve
      https://www.mlb.com/bluejays/news/kazuma-okamoto-adjusts-to-his-major-league-life-in-toronto
      by Keegan Matheson
    2. Houston Astros' Tatsuya Imai 'not able to adjust to the American lifestyle,' interpreter says
      https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7196880/2026/04/14/astros-tatsuya-imai-injury-adjustment/
      by Chandler Rome
  5. Listener Question:
    1. Carlos Estévez or Kirby Yates?
  6. Mental Health Moment:
    1. How do we handle the struggles of work? How do we make it through the day?

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BWB 001 - Breakfast with the Beats12 Apr 202600:55:35

BWB 001 - Breakfast with the Bets

Breakfast with the Beats

Welcome to the brand new, rebranded podcast, Breakfast with the Beats. In today's premiere episode, Mike Carter and Dave Funnell discuss the following:

  1. Who they are and what they've been up to.
  2. Where's Chris?
  3. Beat Writer Round-up:
    1. Is the Jordan Walker breakout happening?
    2. Are the Astros doomed because of these injuries?
  4. Help!
    1. Dave wants to know about Sam Antonacci
    2. Chris needs to decide if he should keep or drop Shane Baz
  5. Stash or Pass?
    1. Should we keep Josh Hader on our benches?
    2. Is Mookie Betts going to play sooner than expected?
    3. What's the latest on Jordan Westburg?
  6. Underrated Relievers
    1. Rico Garcia, Braydon Fisher, Erik Sabrowski, and Cole Winn are all discussed as next in line, but how long of a line is there?
  7. Mental Health Moment
    1. How do we handle the situation of having ailing parents?

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BWB 007 - Players We're Buying24 May 202601:06:55

Breakfast with the Beats

Players We're Buying

Welcome to another episode of Breakfast with the Beats. Mike and Dave are here to discuss the following topics.

Beat Writer Round-up

  1. Nick Kurtz, after 162 games: How elite is he?
  2. Steven Kwan: Can he bounce back?
  3. The Kansas City Royals: Why are they struggling?
     

Buy Low Players: Who Are We Buying and Why? Players mentioned:

Mental Health Moment: Do you beat yourself up over the mistakes you make? Players mentioned:


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BWB 006 - Big Names, Bigger Worries?17 May 202600:56:47

Breakfast with the Beats

Big Names, Bigger Worries?

 

Welcome to Breakfast with the Beats! Mike and Dave are back with another episode. In this edition:

Mike and Dave discuss the one player whose end-of-the-year stats they want to see most:

Then the guys discuss three different articles from around the league, discussing the following topics:

  • Rico Garcia and his ascension into one of baseball's best relievers
  • The Rockies and their hitting developments in the minor leagues
  • How Nolan Arenado found his groove

Afterward, Mike and Dave dig deep on some underperforming hitters that they're rostering and explain whether or not they're concerned or not about what lies ahead for each of the following:

Finally, in our Mental Health Moment, the guys discuss their level of happiness and fulfillment.


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BWB 005 - First Round Concerns10 May 202601:07:40

BWB 005 - First Round Concerns

Breakfast with the Beats

 

Welcome back to Breakfast with the Beats! Mike and Dave are here talking about:

  1. The team that has been hit the hardest by injuries so far
  2. If the Rays can sustain this form of excellence
  3. Mike's reasons for optimism in Chicago
  4. How the Angels are the American League's version of the Rockies
  5. The concerns they have with Shohei Ohtani
  6. The injury to Tarik Skubal
  7. Pitching injuries around the league
  8. Their draft strategies and whether they need to change

Finally, in this week's Mental Health Moment, the guys discuss their relationship with professional sports.


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BWB 004 - Acuna Matatis: Problem-Free Philosophy?03 May 202600:55:52

Episode 004 - Acuna Matatis: Problem-Free Philosophy?

Welcome to Breakfast With the Beats

Mike and Dave are back with another episode, this time discussing the following topics:

  1. Who is the biggest-named player they have dropped in their leagues this season?
    1. Players discussed: Ezequiel Tovar, Matt Chapman, Caleb Durbin, Alex Bregman
  2. Beat Writer Round Up:
    1. Is Joel Kuhnel the real deal for saves in Sacramento, or can Jack Perkins hold him off?
    2. What's the secret to the early-season success of Josh Jung?
    3. Should you love Carter Jensen as much as the Royals do?
  3. This or That - Mike and Dave take different sides of the following topics:
    1. Who will finish with the better record in 2026: The Boston Red Sox or the Philadelphia Phillies
    2. Which player's cold start worries you more: Ronald Acuña Jr. or Fernando Tatis Jr.?
  4. Mental Health Moment
    1. The guys answer a listener's question about gains and fallbacks they've made over the past ten years.

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