ESPN MLB Insider Buster Olney leads the baseball discussion alongside other top analysts.
Listeners of Baseball Tonight with Buster Olney that love the show mention: olney, buster, klaw, eric karabell, keith law, producer josh, kurkjian, baseball news, seth and eric, stark, numbers game, baseball fix, daily baseball podcast, bleacher, fantasy focus baseball, everett, jayson, good baseball, fireball, fine job.
Sarah Langs joins Buster to talk about Dusty Baker getting a shot at a World Series, play a pre-World Series edition of The Numbers Game and make her series prediction. Then, Hembo stops by with context for the Braves' and Astros' World Series runs, and thoughts on who has the most to gain by winning the whole thing and which team has the Game 1 pitching advantage. Later, Xavier Scruggs on the general fan interest in the matchup, his favorite storylines going into the World Series, the Snitker family, and Chris Bassitt's claim that Astros-like cheating is much more widespread.
Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss the Astros defeating the Red Sox in the ALCS, Houston's pitching holding the line, Yordan Álvarez offensive explosion, the Braves defeating the Dodgers in the NLCS, Atlanta maintaining the best record in baseball since the trade deadline, the similarities between the Astros and Braves, what's next for the Red Sox and Dodgers, the Cardinals hiring Ollie Marmol, and the Padres hiring a pitching coach before a manager. Then, longtime MLB catcher Alex Avila stops by to talk about his recent retirement, how the Astros and Braves win in similar ways, his pitching plans for Eddie Rosario and Álvarez, his advice for how baseball should handle the sticky stuff conversation, and how he feels about the opener strategy.
Karl Ravech and Buster discuss Chris Taylor's three home run night, the Dodgers' ability to get the most out of players, Nathan Eovaldi starting for the Red Sox, and a few Bleacher Tweets on the electronic strike zone, tying the DH to starting pitching and Alex Cora vs. Dusty Baker's managerial styles. Later, Hembo stops by to talk about Mad Max: Road Warrior, Taylor's free agent value, his key for Game 6 of the ALCS, and his traditionalist thoughts on changes likely coming to MLB.
Sarah Langs joins Buster to discuss the Braves taking a 3-1 lead over the Dodgers, how Atlanta and Los Angeles feel like different teams compared to last year's NLCS, Framber Valdez's ridiculous sinker, and Alex Cora's mistake with Chris Sale. Plus, Sarah and Buster talk about the big changes coming soon to MLB.
David Schoenfield and Buster discuss Cody Bellinger coming up big in the postseason, whether Bellinger is in position to make these big hits if Max Muncy doesn't get hurt, if the Braves will fold, the Astros' bullpen salvaging the game, Boston failing to knockout Houston, José Altuve and Carlos Correa showing their toughness, Laz Diaz and the would-be strike three call, and the top-five free agent shortstops according to 11 baseball evaluators. Later, Todd Radom has the final Forgotten Franchise for the season and the weekly quiz.
Sarah Langs joins Buster to discuss the Yankees signing Aaron Boone to a three-year contract, what could turn the NLCS series for the Dodgers, Walker Buehler, the emergence of Austin Riley and Alex Cora's coaching moment with Eduardo Rodriguez. Then, the Boston Globe's Alex Speier stops by to talk the Red Sox being locked in offensively, the hitting culture in Boston, Kyle Schwarber's relationship with Bobby Dalbec, if the Astros have a path back into the series and the Mets' GM search.
Tim Kurkjian joins Buster to discuss the Braves' back-to-back walk off wins to take a 2-0 lead in the NLCS, the feeling of something special happening in Atlanta, the Dodgers missing Max Muncy, Dave Roberts bringing in Julio Urias in Game 2, Austin Riley continuing to look like the best player in the NL, MLB increasing housing support for minor-leaguers and the Yankees' managerial situation. Later, Dan Shulman stops by to talk about the ALCS, pitching injuries for the Astros, how Houston should handle its staff going forward, Tanner Houck and Nick Pivetta being difference-makers, and his free agency outlook for Toronto.
Karl Ravech and Buster discuss an exciting Dodger victory over the Giants in Game 5 of the NLDS. They get into Logan Webb's dominant performance, Mooke Betts' big night, Cody Bellinger redeeming himself after a dreadful season, Max Scherzer closing the game out and celebrating hard afterward, Dave Roberts' bold decision to start Corey Knebel, and Buster's cursed picks for the LCS series. Plus, the Cardinals make a surprising move dumping Mike Shildt and the Yankees fire third base coach Phil Nevin. Later, Todd Radom stops by with the Forgotten Franchise and the weekly quiz.
Sarah Langs joins Buster to preview NLDS Game 5 between the Dodgers and Giants. They discuss why each team should be exceeding confident with Logan Webb and Julio Urias on the mound, the Giants finding a way to set-up Camilo Doval, Chris Taylor possibly coming up clutch, home field advantage and how Sarah's mom is doing with a tense night ahead. Then, Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos stops by to talk about how he's watching tonight's Game 5, the Braves' preparation for the Giants or Dodgers, Atlanta's turbulent season, something he previously took for granted and the importance of clubhouse culture.
David Schoenfield joins Buster to discuss Dodgers-Giants going to Game 5, the Braves' chances against Los Angeles or San Francisco, baseball needing a common sense test on what's reviewable, the Astros' stalwarts stepping up, the White Sox faltering down the stretch, and the Yankees considering re-signing Aaron Boone. Later, Hembo on why Alex Cora is the best postseason manager since Bruce Bochy, why he's bullish on Atlanta, picking the Giants in Game 5 and candidates to accept qualifying offers.
Jessica Mendoza joins Buster to discuss rookie reliever Camilo Doval coming up big for the Giants, Evan Longoria's home run, San Francisco and Los Angeles playing nearly perfect ball, the Brewers' complete offensive shutdown, the Red Sox sending the Rays home, Alex Cora's impeccable playoff record, Boston's shrewd signing of Kiké Hernandez, the off-day controversy between the White Sox and Astros, and the 2021 all-intangibles team. Later, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game with notes on Joctober, Cora in clinchers and Buster Posey.
Tim Kurkjian joins Buster to discuss the controversial plays in both Game 3s in the ALDS- how the rulebook cost the Rays a run in the top of the 13th in Boston and whether or not Yasmani Grandal intentionally ran up the first base line to get in the way of a throw to the plate. Plus, Tim looks ahead to the full slate of Division Series games on the schedule today.
Karl Ravech joins Buster to discuss Tim Kurkjian's belief in ghosts, Randy Arozarena stealing home, why the Rays will continue to be a bad matchup for the Red Sox, Lance Lynn getting blown up, Lance McCullers Jr.'s dominance, Dusty Baker's Cooperstown destiny, if the Braves offense can overcome the Brewers' strikeout staff and a monster NLDS series between the Giants and Dodgers. Later, Todd Radom stops by with the Forgotten Franchise and the weekly quiz.
Sarah Langs joins Buster to discuss the Dodgers-Giants' first-ever postseason meeting, Chris Taylor's walk off against the Cardinals, the questions surrounding the White Sox, potentially a huge series from Wander Franco, the Rays' starting rookie pitchers and if the Braves can overcome the Brewers' three-headed monster. Then, Hembo stops by to defend Phil Nevin waving Aaron Judge home in the AL Wild Card game and share his X-factors for every playoff team.
David Schoenfield joins Buster to discuss the Red Sox taking down the Yankees in the AL Wild Card, Xander Bogaerts getting Boston going, Gerrit Cole's bad night, New York's lack of offense, Ryan Braiser playing a key role for the Red Sox, the Rays-Red Sox series in the ALDS and who the Dodgers will play at first base.
Matt Vasgersian joins Buster to preview the AL Wild Card Game between the Yankees and Red Sox, the Yankees' distinct pitching advantage, keeping an eye on swings and misses, Rafael Devers and Giancarlo Stanton elevating their teams, if Joey Gallo can change the narrative around his Yankee career, and Joe West retiring after the postseason. Then, Sarah Langs stops by to give her picks for the wild card games, and plays The Numbers Game with notes on Postseason Gerrit Cole, Aaron Judge homering in winner-take-all games, a pair of older pitchers matching up in Dodgers-Cardinals, and a promising stat for Los Angeles.
Tim Kurkjian joins Buster to discuss Yankees-Red Sox in the AL Wild Card game, Yankees bullpen advantage over the Red Sox, Boston needing a fast start, the Blue Jays coming up one game short, the Mariners' momentum going into 2022, the Giants setting a franchise record for wins, Max Muncy going down and what amounts to a coin flip in the NL Wild Card game.
Sarah Langs joins Buster to discuss champagne celebrations in clubhouses, how the Braves won the NL East after suffering major injuries, the Astros clinching the AL West and Carlos Correa's great year, the Giants coming up clutch again, Adam Wainwright getting the start in the NL Wild Card game, Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton putting the Yankees on their backs, and why Ryan Mountcastle should win AL Rookie of the Year. Later, Todd Radom stops by with the Forgotten Franchise and the weekly quiz.
Karl Ravech joins Buster to discuss the Blue Jays hunting first-pitch fast balls on Gerrit Cole, the number of arms at the Yankees' disposal, why Buster thinks the Red Sox may not lose again, the Braves on the verge of clinching the NL East, Devin Williams breaking his hand while celebrating the Brewers winning the NL Central, the Dodgers and Cardinals on a collision course in the NL Wild Card game, and Karl atoning for his worst preseason prediction.
David Schoenfield joins Buster to discuss their worst preseason predictions, the Cardinals clinching a playoff spot, the Mariners coming up clutch, the Yankees creating some breathing room, the feeling of 2011 for the Red Sox, AL Rookie of the Year and the Braves' chances in the playoffs. Plus, Hembo on his worst preseason prediction, the definitive MVP case for Bryce Harper, the impact of the Giants losing Brandon Belt and why he thinks the Cardinals won't make waves in the playoffs.
Sarah Langs joins Buster to discuss the Mariners hovering around the back of the AL Wild Card pack, Brandon Belt's broken thumb, Joey Votto's bombs, Juan Soto on the edge of a batting title and Bradley Zimmer homering off his brother Kyle. Then, Jessica Mendoza and Melanie Newman stop by to talk about calling Dodgers-Padres together on Wednesday as the first all-women broadcast duo for an MLB game on ESPN, the Dodgers still fighting for the NL West crown, if the Padres will play spoiler or roll over, Giancarlo Stanton's swing and Shohei Ohtani's comments about winning.
Tim Kurkjian joins Buster to discuss the exceptionally dangerous Rays clinching the AL East, why Kevin Cash should be AL manager of the year, the Brewers looking to surprise in the postseason, Juan Soto vs. Bryce Harper for NL MVP, the Yankees sweeping the Red Sox over the weekend and which teams they think make the AL Wild Card with a week left to play. Plus, Buster talks to Giancarlo Stanton after a Yankees victory on Sunday Night Baseball. And, Boog Sciambi chats with Alex Cora.
Karl Ravech joins Buster to discuss this weekend's Yankees-Red Sox series, Boston's favorable schedule going forward, New York controlling its fate, the White Sox clinching the AL Central and how dangerous they'll be in the playoffs, Craig Kimbrel's disappointing play since being traded, the Cardinals ripping off a 12th-straight win, Juan Soto's second half explosion, and MLB experimenting with pre-tacked baseballs. Later, Todd Radom has the Forgotten Franchise and weekly quiz.
Matt Vasgersian joins Buster to discuss the lamest bench clearing ever between the Rays and Blue Jays, the big Yankees-Red Sox series over the weekend, St. Louis rising from the ashes and if the Angels could be players for Max Scherzer in free agency. Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game with notes on two notable 22-year-olds knocking 40 home runs, Juan Soto and the Cardinals' 11-game winning streak.
David Schoenfield joins Buster to discuss the Cardinals storming into the playoffs like Smarty Jones, the Padres' official turn down Bitter Boulevard, Kevin Kiermaier scooping up the Blue Jays' data card on the field and the need for a pitch clock to speed up the game. Then, Hembo stops by to talk about Connor McGregor's first pitch, the Phillies flailing down the stretch, not betting on San Diego's future, Salvador Perez's historic season and why Shohei Ohtani should unanimously win the AL MVP.
Cats are making cameos all over sports right now, from a stray at Yankee Stadium to a dangling feline in Miami. But ESPN's Liz Merrill has the original wild and twisting tale of the St. Louis Cardinals' Rally Cat. When the kitten crawled onto the field during the bottom of the sixth in a 2017 game against the Kansas City Royals, Yadier Molina proceeded to hit a go-ahead grand slam on the very next pitch. Hear the story of the all-out search that followed for the Rally Cat, and the heated fight over where it should live.
Sarah Langs joins Buster to discuss if Jon Lester if a Hall of Famer, if 200 career wins for pitchers is the new 300 wins, Shane Baz debuting for the Rays with a dominant performance and the challenges for the White Sox with the postseason on the horizon. Then, author and columnist George Will stops by to talk about why he thinks the game of baseball is boring, the need to consider all possible rule changes to bring young people back into the fold, his friendship with Tony La Russa, the Cubs' squandering further success with its World Series-winning core and what he expects from labor talks this winter.
Jeff Passan joins Buster to discuss the AL MVP conversation shifting to Vlad Guerrero Jr. and how absurd that is with the way Shohei Ohtani is playing, Bryce Harper as the NL MVP, the confrontation between Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr. in the dugout and the offseason reckoning facing the Padres, possibilities for the Mets GM job, if Aaron Boone could be fired if the Yankees miss the playoffs, and Andrew McCutcheon supporting improved conditions for minor leaguers. Plus, Buster goes rapid fire with J.T. Realmuto.
Karl Ravech joins Buster to discuss Steve Cohen getting wild on social media (again), the AL MVP, Bryce Harper and the Phillies, the Yankees' regretful record against the Orioles, and Karl's landing spots for the class of free agent shortstops. Later, Todd Radom stops by with the Forgotten Franchise and the weekly quiz.
Sarah Langs joins Buster to discuss why all the players don't wear No. 21 for Roberto Clemente Day, the Cardinals' slow climb into the NL Wild Card race, Robbie Ray's continued dominance and matching up the premier shortstop free agents with their future teams. Later, Braves manager Brian Snitker stops by for his first podcast interview. He and Buster talk about how gratifying it is to being atop the NL East with challenges the team has faced this season, the impact of trading for Joc Pederson, Ozzie Albies' maturity, Austin Riley coming up big and his connection to Bobby Cox.
David Schoenfield joins Buster to discuss Roberto Clemente Day, their thoughts on part one of the new 30 for 30 “Once Upon a Time in Queens,” the Cardinals possibly sneaking into the NL Wild Card, if Shohei Ohtani could REALLY lose the AL MVP, the Rookie of the Year races and Ryan Braun's legacy. Then, Hembo stops by to talk about if Max Scherzer is the best trade deadline pick-up ever, Scherzer being historically underrated, Cody Bellinger's disastrous season, and why he thinks Yankees and Red Sox won't win the AL East any time soon.
Darryl Strawberry joins Buster ahead of ESPN's new 30 for 30 “Once Upon a Time in Queens” about the World Series-winning 1986 New York Mets. Darryl and Buster discuss why Mets fans went so crazy for the '86 team, their famous curtain calls, being the bad boys of the league, Dwight Goodin's delivery, Gary Carter playing with joy and what he was thinking during the Bill Buckner play. Later, Sarah Langs stops by with her mom Lisse-Anne Pirofski to talk about her San Francisco Giants clinching a playoff spot, if she endorses the team celebrating with champagne and superstition vs. science. Plus, Langs on Adam Wainwright's phenomenal season at 40, the Blue Jays finally realizing their potential, the Yankees making big changes in the infield and the Red Sox's fielding disaster.
Tim Kurkjian joins Buster to discuss the chirping between the Mets and Yankees over alleged sign-stealing, Francisco Lindor's three home runs on Sunday Night Baseball, if either New York team makes the playoffs, Max Scherzer's 3,000th strikeout, Corbin Burnes and the battle for NL Cy Young, and the Blue Jays surging into playoff position by laying waste to the Orioles.
Michael Kay joins Buster to discuss his memories of 9/11, being unsure if fans were ready to watch “a silly game” when baseball resumed, his moment of clarity when he realized what sports really means to people, the pride he felt after President George W. Bush's first pitch, and the desperation for the Yankees and Mets headed into the weekend. Then, Karl Ravech stops by to talk about the Yankees lacking the vigor the Blue Jays are playing with, Jacob deGrom and Sandy Alderson not being on the same page with deGrom's elbow, and Hunter Renfroe's comments on the Red Sox's COVID-19 outbreak. Later, Todd Radom has the Forgotten Franchise and the weekly quiz.
Yankees general manager Brian Cashman joins Buster to discuss Derek Jeter's speech in Cooperstown, the state of his and Jeter's relationship, his conversations with Joe Torre after 9/11 on what role the team should play in the New York City, the love shown to the Yankees throughout the league in the aftermath, and President George W. Bush's first pitch during the World Series. Later, Sarah Langs on the designation of being unanimously voted into the Hall of Fame, Max Scherzer becoming the second fastest ever to 3,000 strikeouts, the Blue Jays continuing to batter the Yankees and A.J. Pollack.
Stephanie Bell joins Buster to discuss Mets president Sandy Alderson's assertion that Jacob deGrom's injury “has resolved itself,” how Fernando Tatis Jr. has been able to protect his shoulder and whether Tatis should have surgery. Then, David Schoenfield talks about the Padres looking like its in trouble, the Blue Jays busting out, Gerrit Cole's seemingly strategic retreat, the second AL Wild Card spot and his top-three Derek Jeter plays. Later, Hembo stops by with notes on the Yankees benching Joey Gallo, Wander Franco being unfazed by big league pitching and Marcus Semien.
Tim Kurkjian joins Buster to discuss a wacky game between the Red Sox and Rays, if the Blue Jays could make the playoffs, the Yankees losing Jonathan Loaisiga, the Giants taking the weekend series against the Dodgers for first place in the NL West, if Max Scherzer is now the Cy Young favorite in the NL, Cody Bellinger's struggles and Charlie Morton's one-year extension. Later, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game with notes on another Scherzer 10 strikeout-no walk game, Wander Franco's seemingly endless on-base streak and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
Karl Ravech joins Buster to discuss what they would do if they ran the Mets, why Steve Cohen should do everything he can to get Theo Epstein, the tie for first in the NL West, the wide-open race for NL CY Young, Bryce Harper as the favorite for NL MVP and Gerrit Cole closing in on AL Cy Young. Later, Todd Radom stops by with the Forgotten Franchise and the weekly quiz.
Jeff Passan joins Buster to discuss the Dodgers overtaking the Giants atop the NL West, why it's the Dodgers' division and World Series to lose, the Giants running into the Brewers' buzzsaw, the Mets continuing to devolve, Steve Cohen having a conscience-free opportunity to clean house, who Cohen might look at to run the team, and a sliver of hope in labor negotiations. Later, Sarah Langs stops by with her annual list of the 10-best pitches in baseball.
Tim Kurkjian joins Buster to discuss Xander Bogaerts hitting the COVID list, Boston's struggles over the last month, Lance Lynn and Lucas Giolito heading to the IL, the “apologizes” from Javier Baez and Francisco Lindor, and Abraham Toro hitting a grand slam off of Kendall Graveman. Then, Hembo talks about booing, Baez's free agent prospects, why the Rays are the best organization in sports, the last time the Giants and Dodgers owned the top-two spots in the NL West, and strength of schedule for the teams battling for the second NL Wild Card.
Pete McConville is the actual head honcho on Get Up! and he joins Buster as a “till death do us part” Mets fan to discuss Javier Baez giving the thumbs down to Mets fans and what the team should expect at Citi Field tonight. Then, Jessica Mendoza talks about the frustrations Mets' players must be feeling, the NL West race and Shohei Ohtani continuing to be locked in. Later, Sarah Langs on the Rays taking the mantle as best team in the American League.
Buster and David Schoenfield discuss the Javier Baez thumbs down to Mets fans, how this might impact Baez in free agency, Francisco Lindor needing to mend the relationship fans, the A's saving the season after beating the Yankees on Saturday and Sunday, Starling Marte is tearing it up since being traded to Oakland, and Salvador Perez having all-time great offensive year from a catcher.
Karl Ravech joins Buster to discuss the final weekend of the Little League World Series, the Padres losing ground fast, if they anointed the Dodgers too early and a possible Yankees-Red Sox wild card matchup. Plus, Karl and Buster play Who Wants to Be a Billionaire? to assess what the Mets should do in the offseason. Later, Todd Radom has the Forgotten Franchise and the weekly quiz.
Doug Glanville joins Buster to talk about Yadier Molina re-signing with the Cardinals for one final season before retiring and the Wild Card race getting turned upside down. Then, Hembo stops by to talk about Zack Wheeler's Cy Young hopes vanishing, why the Giants keep winning, Yordan Álvarez appreciation and the end of the Orioles' losing streak. Plus, Sarah Langs plays the numbers game with notes on San Francisco unlocking Brandon Crawford's swing, the 16-inning Padres-Dodgers game and A.J. Pollack's underrated season.
In the world of trading cards, one company's loomed large: Topps. But this week a company known for sports apparel, Fanatics, outbid Topps for the right to make cards with Major League Baseball. It also made deals with the NBA and NFL, and this major shakeup in sports memorabilia is worth billions of dollars. Dan Hajducky covers collectibles for ESPN. He shares his reporting on the Fanatics coup, plus the Honus Wagner card that sold for $6.6 million.
David Schoenfield and Buster discuss whether Freddie Freeman touched home plate in last night's game, the Yankees are wearing down starting pitchers, the improved Yankee outfield, AL Wild Card race, the Padres being closer to the Rockies than the Giants in the NL West, the Mets lacking a bedrock of players and the O's losing another one. Then, the Boston Globe's Alex Speier stops by to talk about the outlook for the Red Sox and the bullpen.
Jessica Mendoza joins Buster to discuss the Padres firing Larry Rothschild, the the Dodgers surging and the scene at the Little League World Series. Then, Sarah Langs stops by to talk about Yankee hitters commanding the strike zone, Wander Franco reaching base, San Diego's playoff odds plummeting and the Orioles going for 19 straight losses.
Tim Kurkjian joins Buster to discuss Miguel Cabrera's 500th home run, being impressed by the players at Little League World Series, Shohei Ohtani hanging out with Little Leaguers, reasons to hope that Cleveland bounces back next year, the Reds overtaking the Padres in the Wild Card standings, if the Mets are done in the division race and Tim's memories from the 1988 Orioles season marked by a similar losing streak. Then, Buster goes rapid fire with Jared Walsh.
Buster starts off today's podcast with an interesting update on his producer, Taylor. Then, Karl Ravech joins the show to talk about Williamsport and the Little League Baseball World Series, the Phillies coming off a terrible series, and more. After that, Todd Radom has this week's Forgotten Franchise and administers the weekly quiz.
MLB's Sarah Langs joins Buster to talk about Lance Lynn's ejection. They also discuss Shohei Ohtani and is full value. Then, Buster is joined by ESPN's Alden Gonzalez for an update on the Trevor Bauer hearing.
David Schoenfield joins Buster to discuss Chris Bassitt getting hit on the mound the Yankees climbing out of a hole and tying the Red Sox in the AL East, the Orioles continuing to be a disgrace, Corbin Burns, and another day in court for Trevor Bauer. Then, Hembo stops by to talk about momentum, the Giants' home run differential, Miguel Cabrera on the verge of history, betting on Detroit's future and Baltimore's impact on the pennant race.
© 2020-2021 Ivy Podcast Discovery LLC
