Between Innings w/ Dan Kolko

With the offseason getting into full swing, Dan and John are back to get the Hot Stove all heated up, recap the postseason, and discuss how the Nationals might address their roster this winter. LEADING OFF (10:15) Only a week or so into the offseason, the Nats have already made two key additions to bolster their bullpen. The boys discuss the Trevor Rosenthal and Kyle Barraclough additions and how they could end up being big pick-ups. Then, there’s the Bryce Harper situation. With the Nats having already made Harper a monster offer, Dan and John give their thoughts on how Bryce’s free agency might play out, and how the Nats can’t allow negotiations with No. 34 to drag on too long. WHAT’S ON TAP (24:40) Beyond the Harper situation, the Nats have quite a few of areas of need this winter, from a starting pitcher (or two?), to a catcher (or two?), to second base. What are their priorities? Who are some free agents they might target? Dan also lays out why the trade market could be an important resource this offseason, as well.

LEADING OFF (2:25) Dan and John are back as the 2018 regular season enters its final days, ready to recap the last six months in a big-picture sense. With the Nats now mathematically eliminated from postseason contention, the boys share their thoughts on why things never materialized this year the way everyone expected, and why the window is not closed for future seasons. INSIDE THE CLUBHOUSE (11:57) Dan sits down with Bryce Harper for a lengthy chat, covering everything from the day he was drafted by the Nationals to his thoughts entering free agency. A reflective, open, admittedly emotional Bryce discusses how he's a different person and player now than he was when he joined the organization, his love for D.C., and how he's mentally approaching what could be a life-changing offseason. The interview, in full, covers the three-part series aired on MASN. AROUND THE LEAGUE (36:25) With the playoff picture getting pretty clear, Dan and John discuss some interesting October possibilities, and what teams they'll be rooting for with the Nats not in the mix. ON DECK (42:20) Two games remain on the home schedule, and Dan says he's excited to see how Nats fans show Harper how they feel in what could be his final games at Nats Park as a member of the home team. John, meanwhile, digs deep to find some statistics showing just how historically dominant Max Scherzer has been as a National, as the Nats ace makes a bid for 300 strikeouts this season

LEADING OFF (2:35) - Back for the first time in a while, Dan and John have a bunch to catch up on pertaining to the Nationals. The dog days of Summer are in full swing and the Nats are fighting for their lives in the 2018 season. Trying to identify the one main reason the Nats are where they are, Dan looks at the individual inconsistencies this year from the Nats. John talks big picture and notes that when the Nats pitched well they didn’t hit and when they hit well the pitching just wasn’t there. - Dan also looks back at the somewhat surprising trades made by the Nats in July and August. The guys remember the work as a whole from Daniel Murphy and Matt Adams during their time in a Nationals uniform. FAN QUESTIONS (25:55) - The mailbox is open and the guys take a bevy of questions from fans. Topics include whether or not trade season is over, Juan Soto’s ceiling in 2019, what Dan does with his Gatorade-soaked suits and of course, Frank the Ice Cream scooper in Philadelphia. ON DECK – (45:55) - With less than 30 games remaining in the season, Dan and John talk about what to watch for down the stretch. Dan focuses on the type of baseball that the Nats will play and how that could directly impact the team heading into 2019. John talks about the September call ups that are right around the corner and some exciting players we might see in the season’s final month.

LEADING OFF - (2:00) - One day after the biggest single-game comeback in Nats history, Dan and John have a lot to talk about. How important was the comeback on July 5th? How important could it become? The guys look at every angle. INSIDE THE CLUBHOUSE - (24:30) - Dan sits down with the one and only Jayson Werth. A week into retirement, Jayson reflects on his career, his time with the Nats, and discusses what might be next for the D.C. fan favorite. ON DECK – (48:50) - With only 10 games remaining until the All-Star break, a couple of storylines jump out to Dan and John. The Nationals’ starting rotation has struggled as of late. John discusses whether it will continue or if the starters will turn it around before the break. Dan eyes two of the biggest left-handed bats in the Nats lineup, Bryce Harper and Daniel Murphy. Will they be the Murphy and Harper that Nats fans have become accustomed to in years past? Dan breaks it down.

LEADING OFF (3:45) - Recording from the comforts of Dan's living room, the boys have lots to discuss in their first episode back in a while, starting with Bryce Harper and how he has handled his recent struggles. Dan and John get into Bryce's work with the coaching staff, and how he has comported himself on the field and in the clubhouse during this stretch. And of course, Juan Soto's ridiculous start to his big league career is discussed, as well. INSIDE THE CLUBHOUSE (20:00) - The Nationals made an early splash on the trade market, making a deal for Royals closer Kelvin Herrera in exchange for three minor leaguers. General manager Mike Rizzo discusses how the deal came together and why now was the right time to make the move. Dan and John then break down how this trade most benefits the club and what it could mean for possible future deals. STORIES FROM THE ROAD (28:25) - An off-day in New York last week allowed Dan and John to spend a day at the links at Shinnecock Hills for a US Open practice round. The boys discuss their fun afternoon, but why three of the best golfers in the world might not ever want to see the MASN crew again. ON DECK – (36:00) - Dan looks ahead to how Davey Martinez might handle his current outfield rotation, with four guys worthy of significant playing time. John wonders what the next few weeks might hold for Erick Fedde and whether he can establish himself in the Nats' rotation with a couple starters currently dealing with injuries.

LEADING OFF (4:35) - The rain is gone and “Between Innings” is back. Dan dives into the injury bug that continues to bite the Nats; losing two more key players this past weekend. John takes a bigger-picture look at how the momentum might not be all lost and the team is still on the right track. INSIDE THE CLUBHOUSE (21:35) - Following the news surrounding the Juan Soto promotion to the Nationals on Sunday, Mike Rizzo met with reporters at Nationals Park. After hearing all Rizzo had to say about the young left-handed power hitter, the guys discuss the importance and impact of the promotion and role Soto could have. RANT OF THE DAY – KINDA (34:45) - There are so many questions and rules surrounding saying “Bless You” after someone sneezes and Dan needs some help. Are there inappropriate times to bless someone? How many times is too many? Can you over-bless? John and Claude try to give Dan some help. ON DECK – (45:20) - With the injuries piling up, Dan discusses the importance of the everyday starters carrying the weight until the cavalry returns. John talks about how good and heavily-used the Nats’ starters have been. How much usage is too much? The guys debate.

LEADING OFF (1:55) - With the first month of the 2018 season is in the books, there is a lot to talk about. The Nats aren’t off to the start they had hoped for, but things are looking up as the team kicks of May. Dan and John dive into a bevy of topics – bullpen, offense, injuries and more – and examine the first month of play for Davey Martinez’s bunch. BAESBALL TERMINOLOGY (19:30) - Unparalleled by any other sport, baseball definitely has a language all to it’s own. The guys dive into the wacky lexicon of the National Pastime. Nats beat writers and fans also weigh in on their favorite or most perplexing baseball saying. RANT OF THE DAY (39:43) - Exercise is good. We can all agree on that. However, Dan does not think all exercise is equal and how you do it can make him rather angry. He will explain. ON DECK – BOLD TAKES (46:40) - Dan and John each predict a few “Bold Takes” – things that they think will happen as the season continues. Dan eyes a new arm in the Nats bullpen and John sees good things in the future of Davey Martinez.

LEADING OFF…WITH SOME POSITIVES (4:25) - With the 2018 season off and running, there is plenty to talk about – both positives and negatives. Dan dives into the emergence of Pedro Severino and what his impact could mean to the club. John brings up the impressive start by the top of the Nats rotation – and it doesn’t stop at just Max and Stras. AND SOME NEGATIVES…. (17:25) - While some mistakes have been made by the Nats, they might not be the biggest concern…we will explain why. Also, the outfield situation has had some bumps early on - Dan discusses Michael A. Taylor’s slow start, Adam Eaton’s D.L. stint and the injury to Victor Robles. INSIDE THE CLUBHOUSE (19:20) - Bryce Harper is off to a torrid start this season, leading the majors with six home runs. Dan sits down with the new Nationals Hitting Coach Kevin Long to discuss Harper’s approach this season and some new hitting concepts Kevin has brought to Harp. IS THIS OK? (41:50) - The answer may seem obvious, but this edition involves shrimp, the tail of the shrimp and whether it’s OK to eat it. ON DECK (51:38) - Davey Martinez has shown he is not afraid to mix up the lineup and the guys talk about whether or not they think the skipper might settle into a more consistent order moving forward. John also brings up the rehabbing Daniel Murphy and how the backup corps has done and will continue to do in his absence.

LEADING OFF (3:35) - With Opening Day just two days away, the Nationals’ roster is pretty much set. Dan goes through each of the final decisions – what they were, how they impact the roster and what they mean moving forward. INSIDE THE CLUBHOUSE (26:05) - Dan chats with some Nats players as their time in Florida winds down. Ryan Zimmerman, Sean Doolittle and Shawn Kelley all weigh in on their thoughts on Spring Training, which of their teammates hates Spring Training the most, and if they were commissioner how long they would make their time in Florida. RANT OF THE DAY (43:30) - After a month of traveling to and from West Palm Beach, Dan and John have some things to say about air travel. Security line Do’s and Don’ts, Flight attendant etiquette and airport routines are all put through the ringer. ON DECK (56:23) - Dan breaks down the importance of Tanner Roark’s 2018 campaign. Can Tanner get back to his 2016 form and solidify an already strong Nats rotation? The guys discuss. John looks at the potential battles in the middle of the Nats’ bullpen and how opportunity awaits whoever is ready to step up.

LEADING OFF (6:05) - After a long winter, Between Innings with Dan Kolko is back for another season. With spring training in full swing, Dan and producer John Harvey discuss all that happened in the offseason for the Nats, as far as arrivals, departures, and what roster spots are still up for grabs. INSIDE THE CLUBHOUSE (27:25) - Dan sits down with the Nats’ new skipper, Davey Martinez. Davey lets us know how his first camp is going, some early impressions of the 2018 Nationals and whether or not we can expect any more animals to make an appearance at Nats camp in West Palm Beach. SPRING TRAINING TAKEAWAYS (31:30) - Dan and John break down some early takeaways from Nats camp. How will each coach impact the club? Which players are impressing in the Sunshine State? How has third base coach Bob Henley’s role expanded under his new manager? IS THIS OK? (43:20) - Back by popular demand, Dan poses a question involving gummy bears, vitamins and children. Dan relates to all three. STORIES FROM THE ROAD – OFFSEASON ADDITION (50:40) - A story from Dan and John’s recent golf trip to Alabama gave Dan, what he thinks, is a brilliant made-for-TV idea. OVER/UNDER (55:50) - With the 2018 season on the horizon, John poses some over/under questions to Dan. Max Scherzer, Bryce Harper, Adam Eaton are all discussed.

LEADING OFF (7:50) - With a lot to digest, Dan and John dive into a crazy 2017 NLDS and the Nats’ performance. Positives, negatives and everything in between - the guys discuss, debate and try to make sense of the battle with the Cubs. ON DECK (47:30) - Now that the 2017 season is in the rearview mirror, John tees Dan up with some of the storylines we will be watching as the winter months tick by. Jayson Werth’s future with the Nats, the managerial spot and how the roster will look come spring training are all up for debate.

LEADING OFF (3:22) - With the NLDS upon us, Dan has all the latest from Dusty Baker’s latest press conference leading up to Game 1. The guys compare and contrast the starting rotations, bullpens and offenses of the Nationals and Cubs this season, and Dan and John tackle everything else surrounding the start of this five-game NLDS in DC Friday night. ON THE BEAT (42:15) - Dan chats with Patrick Mooney, the Cubs beat reporter for NBCSChicago, to get a Chicago perspective on the NLDS, including how the Cubs’ rotation looks, why the Cubs feel all the pressure is on the Nats, and what the key storyline might be for Joe Maddon’s club. WHAT CAN’T DAN DO? (1:00:30 ) - John goes on a mini-rant (inspired by Jim Rome’s “Softball Guy” bit) about an experience from his beer-league softball game in Baltimore. John also enlightens listeners on a few things they might not know about Dan and things that Dan certainly does not do. ON DECK (1:13:00) - With the NLDS set to kick off tomorrow night (Friday) at Nats Park, Dan and John each pick an offensive and pitching ‘X’-factor for the Nats in the series against the Cubs. Who might be the difference in the divisional round of the playoffs? The guys discuss.

LEADING OFF (9:33) - The guys are back for the final show of the regular season. Dan and John give their initial reactions to the now-know opponent of the Nats in the NLDS, the Cubs. Dan also weighs in on the early returns from Byrce Harper’s first two games back with the club. IN THE CLUBHOUSE (23:20) - Dan’s sit-down with Jayson Werth from the road trip aired on MASN’s Nats Xtra pregame show, and provided a look into Jayson’s thoughts on his seven years with the Nationals. We replay that interview in full, and react to the big-picture thoughts Jayson shares. 2017 NATS MEMORABLE MOMENTS FANTASY DRAFT (45:20) - Dan and John square off in another fantasy draft. The guys take turns picking their favorite Nats moments from this season so far. The brawl, Gio’s near no-no, multiple walk-off endings and Scherzer’s, “I got this,” moment are all up for grabs. ON DECK (1:00:10) - With only four regular season games remaining, Dan focuses in on Gio’s last start coming up this Sunday and what a solid outing could mean for the left-hander come the NLDS. John zeroes in on the final postseason roster sports. Could on-field play this weekend be the deciding factor? The guys discuss.

LEADING OFF (4:30) - It’s all about the Clinch in the opening segment this week. The Nats won their fourth NL East title in the past six years, and John and Dan break down their perspectives of the Sunday celebration. IN THE CLUBHOUSE (29:15) - Even though winning division titles might seem like old hat to some Nats fans, there are players in the clubhouse that are experiencing it for the first time. Dan catches up with Matt Albers, Brandon Kintzler & Adam Lind to talk about their first taste of a clinch/first postseason appearance. IS THIS OK? & FANTASY BASEBALL JOB DRAFT REVISIT (40:50) - The fans have weighed in on our tooth brushing and flossing debate from last episode and the results remain mixed. Fans also suggest some other baseball jobs they find draft-worthy. RANT OF THE DAY (48:55) - Dan hops on his soapbox once again and etiquette around elevators is the topic at hand. Rider beware if you arrive at an elevator Dan is already waiting for. ON DECK (53:55) - John tees Dan up on five storylines to watch over the last three weeks of the regular season. Bryce Harper, personal achievements and playoff roster spots are all discussed.

LEADING OFF (6:35) - The guys are back in town and ready to talk some Nats baseball as another NL East title is looming. Dan discusses the near certainty that the club will clinch at home for the first time since 2012, while John takes a look back at the two sweeps over the Marlins in the past two weeks and just how big of a deal that was. IS THIS A BAD THING (16:10) - John tees up Dan with some recent trends surrounding the Nats and asks, “Is This a Bad Thing?” or if there is an angle that makes those situations positive. IN THE CLUBHOUSE (29:00) - Dan sits down with Nationals 3rd Base Coach Bob Henley. They discuss “Ole Hen’s” preparation to each and every play, inning and pitch. Bob also enlightens us on “Seed Geography” FANTASY BASEBALL JOB DRAFT (46:55) - Given the recently concluded season of fantasy football drafts, Dan and John have their own draft of sorts. The best baseball jobs are up for grabs! IS THIS OK? (57:48) - Dan fills us in on a recent debate he ran into – the order in which you are supposed to brush and floss your teeth. The guys disagree in a comical debate. ON DECK (1:05:56) - Dan talks about the storylines to look towards after the Nats clinch the NL East title – most notably, Max Scherzer’s quest for a second straight Cy Young. John turns his eyes to the other playoff races in the NL and how the Nats may be affected.

LEADING OFF (4:35) - The band is back together! Dan and John discuss the return of Jayson Werth and Max Scherzer to the Nationals. The guys also talk about the expected return of Trea Turner to the lineup and what it means to have the roster becoming whole down the stretch. IN THE CLUBHOUSE (20:50) - Dan sits down with one of the newest Nats, Brandon Kintzler. Brandon lets the Between Innings listeners into to his world as a late-inning MLB reliever – his routines, habits and workouts, and how he prepares his body and his mind on a daily basis. STORIES FROM THE ROAD (34:53) - With our hearts and thoughts with those in Houston, we look back at a couple memorable moments from our time in the Magnolia City on the last road trip. Let’s just say real life sharks and out-of-this-world mascots are involved. GAME OF THRONES RECAP (50:50) - Season 7 of GoT has ended and the Nationals’ resident Game of Thrones expert, Shawn Kelley, joins the show to talk all things Thrones. ON DECK (59:00) - As the Nats lineup continues to return to its opening day look, Dan discusses Bryce Harper’s status and when we might expect to see him back on the field. The guys also talk about magic numbers and how the Nats’ could become very small rather quickly.

LEADING OFF (4:10) - The boys are back for a second episode of this homestand, and the opening topic is of course Bryce. Dan dives into what we know about Harper’s injury, the timetable for his return and the initial and current reactions to his knee injury. INSIDE THE CLUBHOUSE (15:55) - Max Scherzer joins Dan to talk about his routine down the stretch of the season. The Nats' ace shares his thoughts on pitch counts, days off and just how much he will have left in the tank come October. KILLING TIME (28:20) - Just what do members of the media do to kill time during rain delays? Dan had plenty of practice this past weekend and fills us in on press box polls and debates about pointless topics. GAME OF THRONES RECAP (38:00) - In a timed two-minute recap, the guys discuss the most recent episode and some shocking news that came out during the show. WOULD YOU RATHER (40:27) - A baseball-centric segment that covers potential Nats playoff opponents, the MLB extra innings format and whether the current challenge system should be altered. ON DECK (47:30) - Dan discusses the newest additions to the club and how they are fitting into the Nats roster and clubhouse. John addresses Stephen Strasburg’s pending return to the Nats rotation and how crucial that may be to the team's postseason hopes.

LEADING OFF (7:00) - The first of two shows this homestand kicks off with the guys talking about how the Nats are still winning games despite being bitten by the injury bug. Dan also dives into the newly stocked bullpen and how a perceived weakness has now become a strength. IN THE CLUBHOUSE (23:25) - Sean Doolittle joins us to discuss the behind-the-scenes aspects of being traded in the middle of the season - what the process is like, who is involved, and how a player and his family (and dogs) deal with moving cities/organizations. A LOOK BACK (35:25) - Dan relives the memorable night in Miami that left Gio Gonzalez three outs short of a no-hitter on what would have been his good friend Jose Fernandez’s 25th birthday. The guys also discuss the impressive series win in Chicago. IS THIS OK? - RECAP (43:25) - Listeners have weighed in on the controversial topics debated last time – melted ice cream, third-party jersey and all. FROM THE BLEACHERS (47:05) - Dan fields questions from listeners that range from media food, first autographs and how options work for big league ball players. ON DECK (1:02:15) - John discusses how all eyes may be on Strasburg as he tries to get back to full health before the playoffs roll around. Dan focuses on the division race in the NL Central and who the Nats might face off against in the Divisional Series.

LEADING OFF (3:00) - The guys are back after the All-Star break and a long road trip. Dan dives into the trade that landed Ryan Madson and Sean Doolittle in D.C. and its implications on the back end of the Nats’ bullpen. The guys also discuss Edwin Jackson’s return to the Nats’ starting rotation and what that means for the 5th starter spot moving forward. IN THE CLUBHOUSE (20:35) - Dan leaves baseball aside when he sits down with Shawn Kelley to talk all things “Game of Thrones”. Shawn gives us his take on the 7th season so far and discusses just how many guys on the team are G.O.T. followers. WHEELIN’ AND DEALIN’ (35:50) - With the non-waiver trade deadline five days away, Dan and John talk about what potential moves the Nats could still make and what areas of the roster the front office could potentially look to improve. IS THIS OK? (48:05) - Back by popular demand, Dan poses two more scenarios and wonders – are they are ok? Other teams’ jerseys and melted ice cream are this week’s hotly debated topics. ON DECK (58:15) - Coming of his second career All-Star Game appearance, Ryan Zimmerman has cooled off a bit at the plate – Dan discusses if there is reason for concern or if it’s just another example of Zimm’s streaky nature. John looks to the road ahead and the upcoming matchups with teams over .500, something the Nats have had little experience with this season.

LEADING OFF (6:30) - After a discussion about the July 4th pomp and circumstance and whether or not fireworks are overrated, Dan dives into the Trea Turner injury. What does it means moving forward for the team? John brings up the depth of the Nationals bench and just how important that is to a championship caliber team. ON THE BEAT (22:15) - Dan sits down with Barry Svrluga of the Washington Post and Mark Zuckerman of MasnSports.com to talk about the first half storylines of the Nats season, the looming trade deadline and potential trade targets for the team. WOULD YOU RATHER (49:15) - Dan fires a variety of All-Star break themed scenarios at players as we approach the break. Brian Goodwin, Matt Wieters and Sammy Solis all weigh in on these very hard-hitting questions. ON DECK (57:00) - The guys talk about the importance of the All-Star break itself and just how much can be gained from a “productive” break. Dan also brings up the latest on Jayson Werth and the value that a healthy, productive Werth can bring to this club in the second half.

Leading Off (2:25) - A day after enjoying their first off-day in three weeks (or was it three months?), Dan and John discuss the way the Nats' rotation has pitched to this point in the season, and how Max Scherzer has reached a new level of dominance. The boys also break down Max's near no-hitter in Miami, and give their takes on the workload of the Nats' starters so far. Dare to be Bold (14:30) - Dan gives his take on various bold statements tossed his way by John, including if the Nationals could have two of the top-3 players in the N.L. MVP voting at year's end. Inside the Clubhouse (24:05) - Rick Schu takes some time away from his busy schedule (and briefly puts down the coffee) to take us through what a day is like in the life of a big league hitting coach. Schu tells Dan how he goes about trying to help a hitter get out of a slump, how much of his job involves playing baseball psychiatrist, and what the most rewarding and toughest parts of his job are. Questions from Pops(39:37) - In a new segment, Dan answers some of the many questions sent his way by his baseball-loving dad, allowing fans to learn some of the procedural and behind-the-scenes workings of major league teams. Dan also answers a somewhat creepy bobblehead-related question from Poppa Kolk, who is eagerly anticipating the Potomac Nationals bobblehead featuring his son and Jayson Werth. Rant of the Day (48:50) - While he respects the hard-working meteorologists across the country, Dan lets loose a rant about how forecasts are rarely ever accurate despite all the technological advancements we've seen over the years. Where Are They Now (53:27) - Since he often gets questions about the whereabouts of various former Nationals players, Dan provides updates on a handful of guys who Nats fans grew to love when they donned the home white unis here in D.C. On-Deck (1:00:33) - Dan and John wrap up the podcast by looking ahead to how Tanner Roark will bounce back from his tough stretch of late, and how the Nats have a chance to roll into the All-Star break riding some momentum with a long stretch of home games upcoming.

As a nice treat, Chatter co-owner and media personality Tony Kornheiser joins us for the show. He built the damn studio, so we figured we’d let him join us. Leading Off (4:02) - Dan dives into the long, successful 7-2 road trip out west the Nats returned from last week. They guys also weigh in on the elephant in the room - the Nats bullpen. Tony gives us his thoughts from a diehard fan’s perspective, as well. “Is This OK?” (19:25) - In a new segment, Dan poses a situation he encountered recently while at lunch with a friend. It involves hamburgers, proper eating etiquette and ultimately, is what happened OK? Max Scherzer, Shawn Kelley, Tony Kornheiser and Bob Carpenter all weigh in on the very important matter. Inside the Clubhouse (31:25) - Tanner Roark sits down with Dan to talk about life in the minors, his lengthy journey to the big leagues and the battles he endured to get there. Roadtrip Tidbits (45:45) - Instead of one lengthy story from the road, John and Dan discuss some smaller events that occurred during the trip out west. Among the highlights – Dan got pooped on and John offered no help or sympathy. On-Deck (55: 35) - Dan wraps up the show with a look at the four-game weekend set that lies ahead in New York against the Mets. The guys also discuss just how long Max can keep up his current insanely hot streak.

In an off-day special, Dan and John check in with their thoughts on the infamous San Francisco Brawl between Byrce Harper and Hunter Strickland and the Nats hot start to the long road trip.

Leading Off (3:15) - Coming off a quick road trip to Pittsburgh and Atlanta, Dan discusses how Daniel Murphy just keeps on hitting, and somehow is flying under the radar. Plus, the boys react to Koda Glover's comments about how after a sub-par road trip, the Nats (and their bullpen) will be just fine. Dare to be Bold (12:10) - In a new segment, Dan gives his take on some bold statements that John tosses his way, including whether Stephen Strasburg is underrated, and if Jayson Werth is more valuable to the Nats in Year 7 of his contract than he was in Year 1. Inside the Clubhouse (24:55) - With multiple Nats pitchers raving about the preparation that Matt Wieters puts into how he calls a game behind the plate, Dan chats with Wieters about how much tape he watches, what he looks for when studying film, and why he takes such pride in that aspect of his game. Would You Rather (36:25) - Dan and John take their pick of a few random questions, including if you feel you had a better chance to make contact off 10 Max Scherzer sliders or 10 Stephen Strasburg changeups; if you would rather have the last 25 years of Braves franchise history or Marlins franchise history; and if you would rather see the Terps basketball team win a title or the Capitals win a Cup. On-Deck (45:25) - Looking ahead to a long stretch of games against non-NL East teams, Dan says this will be a chance for the Nats to quiet the talk that they have merely feasted on their own division thus far, and John opines that the club's defense is good enough to be a positive factor as the season progresses.

Leading Off (4:20) - The night after Jayson Werth delivered an 11-pitch AB and key homer, Dan dives into JW's hot start and how 38 is just a number. The guys also discuss the balance between exciting wins and heartbreaking loses. Inside the Clubhouse (12:30) - Dan catches up with Max Scherzer to talk about his game day transformation from goofball to fiery ace, his competitive upbringing and how he feeds off the crowd noise, especially in road stadiums. From the Bleachers (29:10) - Nats fans check in with some questions for Kolko ranging from FPisms, bullpen trades, position players on the mound and fun on the bench during games. Story from the Road (36:45) - John shares a story about a ridiculous fire alarm scene the team experienced while on the road in Philadelphia and the terrifying voice that awoke him from his slumber. On-Deck (41:55) - As the Nats bullpen continues to try and find their groove, Dan talks about the importance of the next few weeks for the relievers. And the guys discuss how the ebbs and flows of the season are becoming more prevalent as we get into mid-May.

Leading Off (3:15) - After a dominant April for the Nationals, Dan addresses some of the negative thoughts felt by some fans, and the boys discuss Gio Gonzalez's tremendous start to the season. Would You Rather (12:40) - In a new segment, we hear from Shawn Kelley, Jose Lobaton, Koda Glover, Sammy Solis and Adam Lind on a variety of (clean) "Would You Rather" topics; including if the guys would rather have Greg Maddux's command or Aroldis Chapman's velocity, and if they would prefer to be a sub-par PGA pro or a B-list actor. On the Beat (29:45) - Chelsea Janes of The Washington Post joins the podcast to discuss her favorite/least favorite aspects of being an MLB beat writer, what her biggest takeaways are from the first month of the Nats' season, and how Dan is her favorite sideline reporter ever, in any sport, in the history of television. Rant of the Day (38:25) - With spring in full bloom in D.C., Dan rants about the high pollen levels, his fear of breaking into a sneezing fit on-air, and why scientists can't just get rid of pollen permanently. On-Deck (43:22) - After the injury to Adam Eaton, Dan says he's watching how Michael A. Taylor will settle into the starting center field job, while John discusses the upcoming Battle of the Beltways home-and-home series with the Orioles.

Leading Off (1:51) - Dan recaps the Nationals' outstanding 9-1 road trip and highlights some of the team's biggest positives as they come back home. Inside the Clubhouse (17:45) - The red-hot Ryan Zimmerman sits down with Dan to talk about what it was like to hear so many people doubting him after a down 2016, how he tunes out the negativity, and whether he ever had his own doubts that he could return to peak form. Quick-Hitters (30:23) - A host of players (Max Scherzer, Jose Lobaton, Stephen Drew and Blake Treinen) give responses to funny rapid-fire questions, such as who on the team has the most interesting sense of style, and how they would describe Wilmer Difo's hairdo. On-Deck (37:55) - Dan and John preview the upcoming Nats/Mets series, talk about how the two teams are trending in opposite directions and give their thoughts on how the weather could soon start to play a factor at Nats Park.

Leading Off (1:25) - Dan breaks down the hot start by the Nationals’ offense and what to make of the bullpen’s bumpy beginning to 2017. Around the N.L. East (10:05) - Dan takes a first look at the Nationals' competition around the division. Inside the Clubhouse (19:45) - Daniel Murphy joins the podcast to bring us into his world as a hitting junkie – talking preparation, approach and how his family has impacted him as player. Rant of the Day (30:20) - Dan gets on his soapbox to rant about free t-shirt tosses at professional sporting events, and how there’s a right and wrong way to get some free swag. From the Bleachers (34:00) - Nats fans chime in with questions about postgame interviews, favorite all-time games and 3rd base coach, Bob Henley. Crew Nicknames (39:20) - Producer John Harvey talks about the one-of-a-kind, Ray Knight; and why he is to thank for some of our favorite nicknames for the MASN crew. On-Deck (44:15) - Dan and John each pick their storyline to watch during the Nats upcoming 10-game road trip. Dan focuses on how quickly Trea Turner can get back to 100% and John looks ahead to the weekend set in Citi Field.

Between Innings with Dan Kolko kicks off with its first episode. Leading Off (4:00) - Dan discusses how Blake Treinen is off and running as the Nats' newly minted closer. And just what could 2017 do for Dusty Baker and his baseball legacy? Inside the Clubhouse (17:12) - Trea Turner sits down with Dan to talk speed, speed and more speed. Where does it come from? How did he turn it into a major league weapon? Plus rapid fire fun to cap it off. From the Bleachers (30:01) - Dan answers questions from Nats fans on the depth of the Nats' starting rotation and whether or not "Kolko in a Kayak" will ever actually happen. Story From the Road (42:10) - Producer John Harvey enlightens the listeners on a time when Kolko couldn't make it through a charter fishing trip. On-Deck (46:10) - Dan and John each pick their storyline to watch during the first couple weeks of the 2017 season. Dan eyes up what Ryan Zimmerman will do in April and John focuses on how the bullpen will fall into form.

A quick preview of what's to come on Between Innings with Dan Kolko. It all starts tomorrow, April 4, with the first full episode!