Flippin' Bats with Ben Verlander

Shohei Ohtani has been battling knee and biceps issues for months, and now those injuries may be taking a toll on his performance at the plate. After a four-strikeout game and an extended offensive slump, Dave Roberts acknowledged that Ohtani may need some time to rest. Ben breaks down Ohtani's recent struggles, the latest on his stalled return to the mound, and why his health should now be the Dodgers' biggest priority heading into October. Timestamps: 0:00 Shohei Ohtani is Injured 3:03 Knee Affecting His Offense 4:47 Dave Roberts Comments On Injuries 6:37 What Should Dodgers Do With Shohei? 12:29 This Week in Shohei Ohtani News Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I've been riding with Shohei Ohtani for NL MVP all season, but it's time for me to admit it: I was wrong. Pete Crow-Armstrong has changed my mind, and I explain why he's now my pick for MVP. Plus, we break down a huge Yankees-Red Sox series, the Astros surviving the chaos, Tarik Skubal's emotional return to Detroit, the 5 teams that can beat the Dodgers in October, and my latest MLB Power Rankings. Who is your NL MVP right now: PCA or Ohtani? Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 0:41 Shohei or PCA for NL MVP 9:00 Top 5 NL Teams That Can Beat the Dodgers 16:35 Around the League 20:36 MLB Power Rankings 28:53 Outro #FlippinBats #MLB #shoheiohtani #PCA #petecrowarmstrong #dodgers #cubs #powerrankings Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can anyone stop the Dodgers if their rotation is finally healthy for October? John Smoltz breaks down Shohei Ohtani's return to the mound and what this loaded Dodgers staff could look like in the postseason. Plus, Smoltz reacts to the Astros firing their GM while in first place, the Braves sweeping the Dodgers, and Pat Murphy's unusual decision to bench Cooper Pratt.Are the Dodgers beatable in October? Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 1:33 Smoltz's Thoughts On Astros GM Firing 3:30 Dodgers Rotation Thoughts 7:15 More Impressed with Braves Now? 10:58 Was Pat Murphy's Benching Warranted? 13:48 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shohei Ohtani could be back on the mound for the Dodgers as soon as Sunday. Ohtani has taken some major steps toward his pitching return, including facing live hitters and continuing to build up on the mound. We break down the latest on when he could pitch, why he won't need a rehab assignment, and what his return would mean for a Dodgers rotation that is coming together at exactly the right time. Plus, Ohtani continues to make an impact offensively as the NL MVP race heats up. Subscribe for more MLB coverage and This Week in Shohei Ohtani. #FlippinBats #MLB #shoheiohtani #shoheiohtani #ohtani #dodgers #losangelesdodgers Timestamps: 0:00 Shohei's Return to the Mound 4:40 Shohei's Injured Knee Update 6:53 Shohei's Offensive Week 10:21 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Dodgers' rotation is coming together at the perfect time, and October is starting to look scary for the rest of baseball. We break down why the Dodgers are built for this time of year, with Yoshinobu Yamamoto dealing, Tarik Skubal joining the rotation, Blake Snell dominating, Tyler Glasnow getting closer and Shohei Ohtani working toward his return to the mound. Plus, the Astros made major news by firing GM Dana Brown. What does the move mean for the organization, and what could be next for manager Joe Espada? We also get into the Padres' new ownership group and their aggressive plans for the future, unveil this week's MLB Power Rankings, and recap the Little League Classic. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 1:07 Astros fire GM Dana Brown 6:54 Dodgers Coming Together Just in Time 10:30 Padres New Ownership ROCKS 15:00 New MLB Power Rankings 24:54 Little League Classic Recap 27:00 Outro Are the Dodgers going to win 3 in a row?! #MLB #Dodgers #Astros #Baseball #MLBPowerRankings Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Smoltz makes his pick in the NL MVP race between Shohei Ohtani and Pete Crow-Armstrong! This week on Saturday with Smoltz, I ask the Hall of Famer who he would vote for right now in one of baseball's biggest award races. We also break down the absolute chaos in the American League Wild Card race and Smoltz gives his pick for which team ultimately gets in. Plus, with the Little League Classic this weekend, Smoltz shares his favorite Little League memory and looks back at what it was like to be a player during the historic Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa home run chase in 1998. Who gets your NL MVP vote right now, Shohei or PCA? Let me know in the comments! #FlippinBats #MLB #JohnSmoltz #shoheiohtani #petecrowarmstrong #PCA #NLMVP Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 1:54 Smoltz's AL Wildcard Pick 5:03 Smoltz picks his NL MVP 11:11 Remembering the 1998 MVP Race 12:48 Favorite Little League Moment 15:58 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Could Shohei Ohtani actually leave the Dodgers? Reports surrounding Dodgers controlling owner Mark Walter have raised major questions about his financial empire, and because of a unique clause in Ohtani's contract, Dodgers fans are wondering what it could mean for Shohei's future in Los Angeles. On this week's This Week in Shohei Ohtani, I break down what's actually happening with Walter, why this does NOTmean the Dodgers are broke, how Ohtani's key man clause works, and what would have to happen for it to become relevant. Plus, we have the latest on the NL MVP race between Ohtani and PCA, another big week at the plate for Shohei, and an encouraging pitching update as he continues working toward a potential return to the Dodgers rotation in September. In this episode:• What's actually happening with Mark Walter• Are the Dodgers in financial trouble?• Could Ohtani's contract clause allow him to leave?• Why Ohtani's deferred money isn't suddenly at risk• Shohei vs. PCA in the NL MVP race• Ohtani's latest offensive surge• The latest on his return to pitching Let's hear it... Who is Your NL MVP Pick? Timestamps: 0:00 Are the Dodgers in Trouble? 7:00 NL MVP Race 11:56 Shohei's Offensive Week 14:00 Latest Pitching News 15:40 Outro #ShoheiOhtani #Dodgers #MLB #LosAngelesDodgers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The American League playoff race is absolute CHAOS. With six teams separated by just 1.5 games in the Wild Card race, I'm breaking down the contenders and making my picks for which six teams ultimately make the AL playoffs. Plus, the White Sox just went into Detroit and swept the Tigers in their biggest series of the season. Did Detroit blow its chance to make a run at the AL Central? And are the Blue Jays actually the team best positioned to grab the final Wild Card spot? We'll also unveil this week's MLB Power Rankings, talk about the Brewers taking over baseball's top spot, the Dodgers' recent struggles, and everything that made this year's Field of Dreams experience so special. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 0:47 AL Wild Card CHAOS 2:38 My 6 AL Wild Card Picks 7:56 Tigers Blow Golden Opportunity 11:31 White Sox Dominate HUGE Series 15:10 New MLB Power Rankings 25:33 Field of Dreams Experience 30:25 Ohtani Donates 7 Figures 31:00 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is there reason to be concerned about Paul Skenes? John Smoltz joins me for another Saturday with Smoltz to break down Skenes' recent struggles, what he's seeing from the Pirates ace, and whether there's anything to worry about moving forward. We also get Smoltz's take on one of the strangest plays you'll see all season involving MLB's “fourth out” rule, plus he shares a personal story about his Field of Dreams experience and what that game meant to him and his family. Are you concerned about Paul Skenes or not? Let me know in the comments! Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 1:42 Concerned About Paul Skenes? 5:15 Wild 4th Out Rule 9:30 Smoltz' Emotional Field of Dreams Experience 11:59 Outro #PaulSkenes #JohnSmoltz #MLB #Pirates #Baseball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shohei Ohtani is getting closer to returning to the mound. After not pitching since July 3, Ohtani has now thrown on back-to-back days as he continues working his way toward his next bullpen session. We break down the latest on Ohtani's pitching timeline, what his recent stolen base could tell us about his knee, and where things stand in the NL MVP race with Pete Crow-Armstrong. Plus, John Smoltz weighs in on the Ohtani vs. PCA MVP debate. Is Shohei still your NL MVP right now? Let me know below! Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 0:40 Johns Smoltz NL MVP Pick 1:53 Shohei vs PCA 2:41 Pitching Injury Update 4:50 Shohei's Offense 6:25 Who wins MVP? 7:39 Outro #ShoheiOhtani #Dodgers #MLB #Ohtani #DodgersBaseball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Tigers are officially making some noise in the American League — and this might be more than just a hot streak. We break down Detroit's surge, Troy Melton's incredible season, Jackson Jobe's return and why this Tigers rotation could be a serious problem down the stretch. Plus, the Yankees may have found a game changer in George Lombard Jr. Is the rookie already becoming a star in New York? We also unveil this week's MLB Power Rankings, talk about the Dodgers' recent struggles, the Brewers taking over the No. 1 spot, and look ahead to MLB at the Field of Dreams. ⚾ On today's show:• Are the Tigers FOR REAL?• Troy Melton's ridiculous season• Jackson Jobe is throwing 100 again• George Lombard Jr. looks like a STAR• The latest MLB Power Rankings• What's happening with the Dodgers?• Field of Dreams week is here Drop your take below: Are the Tigers a legitimate playoff team — and how good can George Lombard Jr. be? Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 0:40 Tigers are HOT 6:08 Yankees Found Their Star SS 10:35 New MLB Power Rankings 24:16 MLB at Field of Dreams 26:51 Outro #MLB #DetroitTigers #Yankees #Baseball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The NL MVP race is officially on. This week, John Smoltz joins the show to break down the biggest debate in baseball: Shohei Ohtani or Pete Crow-Armstrong for National League MVP? Is elite defense more valuable than elite pitching? Who has the stronger overall case? We also discuss: ⚾ John Smoltz's biggest winners from the MLB Trade Deadline ⚾ The Dodgers' pursuit of Tarik Skubal ⚾ The Braves' quiet deadline ⚾ Ohtani's incredible week at the plate and on the mound Who gets your NL MVP vote right now? Let us know in the comments! #Dodgers #ShoheiOhtani #PeteCrowArmstrong #Cubs #MLB #MLBTradeDeadline #JohnSmoltz #mvp Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 0:53 John Smoltz Joins 1:13 Who is the NL MVP? 4:30 Tarik Skubal Traded to Dodgers 8:36 Braves Underwhelming Deadline 10:50 Jacob DeGrom Declines Trade 15:12 Deadline Winners and Losers 20:22 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The NL MVP race is officially here. For months, Shohei Ohtani looked like the runaway favorite. Now, Pete Crow-Armstrong has forced his way into the conversation, and after an incredible head-to-head showdown, it's time to ask the question... Who deserves the National League MVP? In this week's This Week in Shohei Ohtani News, we break down: ⚾ Shohei Ohtani vs. Pete Crow-Armstrong for NL MVP

The MLB Trade Deadline is over, and it's time to separate the contenders from the pretenders. This week, I explain why "prospects are suspects" is more than just a saying, look back at some of the biggest blockbuster trades in MLB history, and rank my biggest winners and losers from this year's deadline. Plus, thoughts on the Cubs, Dodgers, Padres, Yankees, Braves, Brewers, Tigers, Orioles, Astros and more, before wrapping up with this week's MLB Power Rankings. Let me know your biggest trade deadline winner and loser in the comments! Timestamps: 0:00 Trade Deadline Chaos 2:10 Top 5 Trade Deadline Winners 8:48 Top 5 Trade Deadline Losers 24:26 Orioles Embarrassing Deadline 26:45 Tigers Disappoint Again 31:43 Astros Weird Deadline Deal 34:40 MLB Power Rankings 47:08 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hall of Fame Weekend is over... but John Smoltz has stories you probably haven't heard. We talk about baseball's newest Hall of Famers, share stories about each of them, behind-the-scenes moments from Cooperstown, and why Hall of Fame Weekend means so much to everyone who's been part of it. Who was your favorite of the 3 new Hall of Famers? #MLB #HallOfFame #JohnSmoltz #Baseball #AndruwJones #JeffKent #CarlosBeltran Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 3:54 Carlos Beltran Story 6:35 Jeff Kent Story 9:27 Andruw Jones Story 12:22 Favorite Part of HOF Weekend 13:18 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ESPN has released a brand-new 30 for 30 podcast series, The Betrayal of Shohei Ohtani, bringing the Ippei Mizuhara scandal back into the spotlight more than two years later. But why now? I listened to the entire series and break down what is actually new, what isn't, and whether this story needed to be revisited in the middle of another historic Shohei Ohtani season. Plus, the latest on Shohei's injury updates, his return-to-pitching timeline, and a look at his recent surge at the plate as he starts heating up offensively once again. What do you think? Did ESPN need to make this podcast? Let me know in the comments. If you enjoyed the video, be sure to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications so you never miss another episode of This Week in Shohei Ohtani News! Timestamps: 0:00 The Betrayal of Shohei Ohtani 4:59 Shohei Ohtani Dealing With 2 Injuries 8:59 Shohei Ohtani Heating Up on Offense 10:53 NL MVP Race 12:30 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The MLB Trade Deadline is almost here... and there are FIVE teams that NEED to buy. The problem? I don't trust them to actually do it. Who made my list? And which team has me more frustrated than ever? Plus: ⚾ My latest MLB Power Rankings

John Smoltz joins me for another edition of Saturday with Smoltz, and this week we start with the biggest question in baseball: Should Shohei Ohtani still be the favorite to win the National League MVP? We break down Shohei's latest injury update, what it means for the Dodgers, and whether the MVP race has become much more interesting. Then, Smoltz shares one of the most fascinating answers he's ever given on this show—revealing what he would've traded for another World Series championship. We also discuss: - The Dodgers' outlook - The MLB trade deadline - The biggest stories around baseball Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 0:30 Shohei Ohtani Injury Concern 3:11 Is Shohei Still the MVP? 4:26 Boston Red Sox Legit? 6:54 Was He Ever Almost Traded? 11:51 Favorite Part of All-Star Week 15:54 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shohei Ohtani won't pitch again for some time because of his knee—but does that finally open the door for a new National League MVP? In today's episode, I explain why I still believe Shohei is the clear MVP, even if he doesn't throw another pitch this season, and break down what Dave Roberts' latest comments mean for the Dodgers moving forward. Plus: Why Tarik Skubal says he doesn't want to be traded—and whether the Tigers should listen The Boston Red Sox continue one of the hottest stretches in franchise history Are the Mets about to reshape their roster again? My latest MLB Power Rankings Who do you have winning the NL MVP right now? Let me know in the comments! Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 2:30 NL MVP Now Up For Grabs? 8:05 Should Tigers Trade Skubal? 12:00 Red Sox Surging 16:05 Mets Open For Business 20:21 New MLB Power Rankings 31:45 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shohei Ohtani's latest ESPY win has baseball fans debating one question: Was it the greatest single-game performance ever? In this week's This Week in Shohei Ohtani News, I explain why I believe the award was deserved, react to the debate surrounding Shohei's historic performance, and discuss why I think it belongs among the greatest games ever played. Plus: - Mike Tyson's hilarious reaction to learning Shohei is a man

Ben takes you behind the scenes of MLB All-Star Week, recapping everything from Media Day, the Red Carpet, the Home Run Derby, and the MLB All-Star Game while sharing exclusive conversations with some of baseball's biggest stars. This episode features interviews and moments from throughout the week, including Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Justin Verlander, All-Star Game MVP Cody Bellinger, and many more, along with Ben's biggest takeaways from one of baseball's best events of the year. Whether you missed All-Star Week or want to relive the biggest moments, this episode has you covered. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With Justin Verlander officially announcing his retirement, I sat down with Hall of Famer John Smoltz to reflect on one of the greatest pitching careers in baseball history which just so happens to be accomplished by my brother. We discuss what made Justin so special, the moments that defined his career, what Cooperstown should remember most, and what it's like knowing when it's finally time to walk away from the game. If you're a Justin Verlander fan, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 1:55 John Smoltz Joins 3:31 How Hard Is The Decision? 8:54 What Will You Remember Most? 10:17 What Impressed You Most? 12:51 Pitching In 2 Generations 15:19 How Baseball Will Remember JV 19:00 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shohei Ohtani has reached another unbelievable milestone. This week on This Week in Shohei Ohtani News, we break down why Shohei's 300th career home run is so much more than just another number. From becoming the 5th-fastest player in MLB history to 300 home runs to continuing to build one of the greatest careers baseball has ever seen, we put this historic accomplishment into perspective. Also this week: ⚾ Shohei's latest start on the mound

Today is a day that I always knew had to come eventually, but never believed it would actually happen. My brother, Justin Verlander, has officially announced his retirement from Major League Baseball. In this video, I share my thoughts on his incredible career, what he's meant to me as a brother, and what I'll remember most from watching his journey unfold over the past two decades. Thank you, Justin, for everything you've given to the game of baseball. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 2026 MLB All-Star rosters are officially set, and there are several players who should have made the team. In this episode, I break down my biggest All-Star snubs, discuss who deserves to start the All-Star Game on the mound, react to Mike Trout's 12th All-Star selection, and talk about the possibility of Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber competing in the Home Run Derby in Philadelphia. Plus, I unveil my latest MLB Power Rankings, discuss the surging Astros and Tigers, and reveal my Team of the Month after another exciting month around Major League Baseball. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 0:42 All-Star Snubs 9:52 Harper and Schwarber in Derby?! 13:18 MLB Power Rankings 23:20 June Team of the Month 26:58 All-Star Staring Pitchers? 29:28 26 First Time All-Stars 30:41 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Saturday with Smoltz, John Smoltz joins me to discuss one of baseball's biggest trade deadline questions: Should the Tigers consider trading Tarik Skubal? We also break down whether the Yankees should be concerned about their recent struggles, why the Astros remain a legitimate playoff threat, and whether pitchers are actually throwing harder today—or if our perception of velocity has changed. As always, Smoltz shares thoughtful insight, strong opinions, and stories from his Hall of Fame career. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 1:49John Smoltz Joins 2:05 Has Velocity Reading Changed? 5:10 Concern About Yankees? 6:04 Astros a Playoff Team? 7:40 Trade Deadline Talk 9:03 Would You Trade Skubal? 9:45 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shohei Ohtani will NOT pitch in the 2026 MLB All-Star Game... but there's a very good reason why. On this week's This Week in Shohei Ohtani News, I break down why the Dodgers pushed Ohtani's schedule back, why it means he won't take the mound in Philadelphia, and why I actually think it was the right decision. We'll also cover: - The real reason behind the schedule change - Ohtani's latest week at the plate - His comments about returning home to his growing family - Dave Roberts becoming the fastest manager ever to reach 1,000 wins - And everything else you need to know from another week of Shohei Ohtani news. Don't forget to subscribe for a new episode of This Week in Shohei Ohtani News every week! Timestamps: 0:00 Shohei Not Pitching in ASG 1:30 Why His Start Was Pushed Back 3:42 Shohei's Offensive Week 7:58 Congrats to Dave Roberts 10:08 Ben Verlander Guarantee (BVG) 10:58 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Rafael Devers getting an unfair reputation? On today's episode, I explain why I think the conversation surrounding Devers has gone too far and why his teammates tell a much different story than the headlines. Then it's time for this week's MLB Power Rankings. The Phillies continue their surge, the Braves have stumbled after leading the NL East comfortably just weeks ago, the Dodgers remain on top, and several teams are making major moves as we approach the trade deadline. Also on today's show: My latest Top 10 MLB Power Rankings Phillies vs. Braves in the NL East Kyle Schwarber becomes MLB's first 30-home run hitter Why the Astros are looking dangerous again Jazz Chisholm's check-swing frustration The biggest stories from around Major League Baseball Thanks for listening! If you enjoy the show, be sure to follow, rate, and review—it really helps the podcast grow. ⚾ Timestamps: 0:00 Rafael Devers is Misunderstood  2:41 New MLB Power Rankings 15:12 Astros Are Coming 18:37 Biggest Pet Peeve 20:26 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Smoltz joins Ben Verlander for another edition of Saturday with Smoltz on Flippin' Bats. This week, they dive into the biggest story in baseball: the on-field miscommunication between Shohei Ohtani and Dodgers rookie catcher Dalton Rushing. Smoltz explains whether he experienced similar situations during his Hall of Fame career, how trust between a pitcher and catcher is built, and why communication is so important at the major league level. The conversation also covers: The Braves' shrinking lead in the NL East Which team John hopes becomes an aggressive buyer at the MLB Trade Deadline An under-the-radar pitcher who has caught his attention this season Plus plenty of baseball insight and stories from one of the game's greatest pitchers. Subscribe to Flippin' Bats for new episodes every week featuring the biggest stories across Major League Baseball. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 0:48 Braves losing NL East Lead 3:45 Who Needs to Make a Trade 6:53 Ohtani/Rushing Situation 10:11 Underrated Pitcher Appreciation 13:09 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shohei Ohtani and rookie catcher Dalton Rushing couldn't seem to get on the same page early in Wednesday's start... and it led to one of the most frustrating innings of Shohei's season. Then everything changed. In this week's 'This Week in Shohei Ohtani News', we break down the miscommunication between Ohtani and Rushing, Shohei's postgame comments explaining exactly what happened, and how he responded by striking out the side and dominating the rest of the game. We also discuss: ⚾ Shohei averaging 100 MPH for the first time in his MLB career ⚾ The fastest pitch of his career (101.7 MPH) ⚾ Another dominant start (6 IP, 2 ER, 8 K) ⚾ Six home runs in his last 12 games ⚾ Becoming a father of two and his first comments after welcoming his son ⚾ Why Shohei continues to prove he's the most incredible player baseball has ever seen. If you enjoyed the episode, don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment! Did the Shohei Ohtani frustration with Dalton Rushing surprise you? #ShoheiOhtani #Dodgers #MLB #Baseball #ThisWeekInShoheiOhtaniNews #DaltonRushing #大谷翔平 Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 0:16 Ohtani vs Rushing Frustration 3:15 Performance vs Twins 5:20 Rushing Struggles 7:42 Shohei Pushing Through Pain 9:35 Postgame Comments 10:54 Shohei Offense 13:38 New Dad x2 15:08 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Nick Kurtz becoming the next superstar in Major League Baseball? On this episode of Flippin' Bats, we break down the incredible rise of Nick Kurtz, who is putting together one of the best offensive seasons in baseball at just 23 years old. From leading the American League in RBIs to posting elite numbers across the board, Kurtz is making a serious case as one of the game's best hitters—and perhaps the best first baseman in baseball. We also discuss Pete Crow-Armstrong's unbelievable MVP-caliber season and why, if not for Shohei Ohtani, he'd be right at the top of the National League MVP conversation. Plus, Shohei returns from paternity leave and immediately homers in his first game back. Also in this episode: ⚾ My dream Home Run Derby participants ⚾ This week's MLB Power Rankings ⚾ Team of the Week ⚾ The latest storylines from around Major League Baseball Who is your #1 team in MLB right now? Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 1:56 PCA MVP Numbers 4:41 HR Derby 9:43 Nick Kurtz 12:10 Around MLB 15:44 MLB Power Rankings 26:03 Team of the Week 30:27 East West Classic 35:12 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Could Shohei Ohtani's blister become a serious problem as he chases one of the most historic seasons in baseball history? This week, Hall of Famer John Smoltz joins the show to discuss the growing concern surrounding Shohei Ohtani's blister issue and how difficult it can be for pitchers to perform through finger injuries. After allowing just 5 earned runs through his first 10 starts before surrendering 7 in his last two, is the blister to blame or is it something bigger? We also discuss whether there should be any concern surrounding the Atlanta Braves after injuries to both Spencer Strider and Ronald Acuña Jr., the Mariners' unique piggyback pitching strategy, and the latest proposed Home Run Derby rule changes. Don't miss another great baseball conversation with one of the greatest pitchers to ever take the mound. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 1:49 John Smoltz Joins 2:17 Braves Concern 5:38 Shohei Blister Issue 8:27 Mariners Piggyback 11:01 New Derby Rules 12:39 The Pro Tour 14:43 Outro #MLB #ShoheiOhtani #JohnSmoltz #Dodgers #Braves #baseball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Did Jacob Misiorowski just throw one of the greatest games in MLB history? On this episode, we break down a truly historic performance from the Brewers' young ace and ask the question everyone is now talking about: is Jacob Misiorowski already one of the best pitchers in baseball? We dive into the dominance, the velocity, and the numbers behind a start that may have officially announced his arrival on the MLB stage. Plus, the Chicago White Sox continue their shocking rise after years of struggles, the latest MLB Power Rankings shake up the league, and Braden Montgomery makes history with a walk-off home run in his MLB debut. We also cover the Athletics' wild week in their future Las Vegas home, Team of the Week, and all the biggest stories around Major League Baseball. Subscribe for new episodes covering the biggest moments, players, and debates across MLB. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 0:39 A's Play First Vegas Games 2:24 Jacob Misiorowski Becoming a Star 5:18 White Sox Keep Rolling 7:15 Braden Montgomery Journey 9:58 MLB Power Rankings 19:29 Team of the Week 25:55 Scottish Fans Take Over Fenway Park Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is this the greatest season we've ever seen in baseball history? In this week's This Week in Shohei Ohtani News, we break down another unbelievable stretch from Shohei Ohtani as he continues to dominate both as a pitcher and a hitter at the same time. Ohtani currently leads MLB in both OPS and ERA, a combination that simply shouldn't exist. Through 10 starts on the mound, he's posting one of the lowest ERAs in baseball history while also hitting over .300 with elite production at the plate. We dive into the numbers, the historic comparisons, and why what we're watching right now may be unprecedented even in the long history of Major League Baseball. From 0.74 ERA dominance to elite offensive production, on pace for one of the highest WAR seasons ever recorded, everything about Shohei Ohtani right now is pushing the boundaries of what we thought was possible. This episode is all about appreciating greatness — because we may be watching something we'll never see again. We also dive into his 11th start on the mound against the Pittsburgh Pirates and how he did at the plate as well, blasting his 12th HR of the season! Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 0:15 Greatest Season Ever 7:00 Shohei's Offense 9:17 Pitching Performance vs Pirates 17:37 Postgame Comments 21:19 Recap Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Has Roki Sasaki finally arrived?After an up-and-down start to his MLB career, Roki Sasaki is beginning to look like the dominant pitcher baseball fans were promised. We break down his recent surge, what's changed, and why his latest outing may be the clearest sign yet that he's figuring things out at the Major League level.Plus, Aaron Judge is on the injured list with a stress fracture, what play did it happen on? How long is he out? All that and more is answered! Shohei Ohtani continues to put up numbers that don't seem possible, Cristopher Sanchez's incredible scoreless streak comes to an end, and I explain why I believe the Houston Astros are going to make the playoffs.We also dive into Josh Naylor's heated weekend, Tarik Skubal's return, this week's MLB Power Rankings, Team of the Week, and everything else happening around Major League Baseball.Subscribe for new episodes multiple times per week covering the biggest stories, players, and moments from around the game.#flippinbats FlippinBats #MLB #shoheiohtani #houstonastros #rokisasaki #japan #npb #aaronjudge #tarikskubal #powerrankings SUBSCRIBE to get the latest Flippin' Bats with Ben Verlander content: https://www.youtube.com/flippinbatspod?sub_confirmation=1Timestamps:0:00 Intro0:41 Around The League Recap10:48 Roki Sasaki 13:45 Houston Astros17:05 Kevin McGonigle19:27 MLB Power Rankings28:56 Team of the Week37:43 UC Health HR Derby40:08 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Shohei Ohtani the greatest athlete of all time? This week, John Smoltz joins the show to weigh in on one of the biggest debates in sports. Smoltz not only faced some of the greatest athletes ever—he was also teammates with Deion Sanders. So when it comes to comparing Deion and Shohei Ohtani, his opinion carries more weight than almost anyone else's. We discuss Ohtani's incredible season as he lowers his ERA to 0.74 while raising his batting average above .300, continuing one of the most remarkable two-way stretches baseball has ever seen. Plus, we dive into whether the Yankees can survive without Aaron Judge, Cristopher Sanchez's dominant scoreless streak, and whether he has emerged as a legitimate Cy Young favorite alongside Ohtani. All that and more with Hall of Famer John Smoltz on this week's episode of Flippin' Bats. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 2:20 John Smoltz Joins 2:41 Shohei Ohtani is UNBELIEVABLE 4:48 Better Athlete: Shohei or Deion 7:08 Cristopher Sanchez remarkable stretch 8:40 Cy Young Front runner? 9:50 Yankees OK without Judge? 10:33 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Braves First to 40 Wins + White Sox Are LEGIT! Tatis Finally Homers | Flippin' Bats The Atlanta Braves became the first team in MLB to 40 wins and continue to look like the best team in baseball. Meanwhile, the Chicago White Sox are officially for real, they've already matched their entire 2024 win total before June, Munetaka Murakami is smashing records with 20 HRs as a rookie, and the energy on the South Side is back. Plus: - Fernando Tatis Jr. finally ends his homer drought with a massive 451-foot bomb - The Mariners have taken control of the AL West - Christopher Sanchez vs Jacob Misiorowski — Who had the better month? - Full Power Rankings + Team of the Month Chapters: 0:00 Intro 0:24 Around the MLB 6:28 White Sox On Fire 9:30 Fernando Tatis Jr Homers 11:43 Sanchez or Miz in May? 16:14 New MLB Power Rankings 26:20 Team of the MONTH 31:00 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Smoltz joins Ben Verlander for another great weekly breakdown. We discuss: - Does a combined no-hitter actually count as a real no-hitter? - The wild NL Central race... Why the Cubs are such a rollercoaster while the Brewers remain the model of consistency (and how they turned Kyle Harrison into an ace). - Who's the best in the NL Central? - One of the craziest celebrations you'll ever see! Abner Uribe's over-the-top, derogatory strikeout celebration + the craziest thing Smoltz ever saw or did Smoltz also shares his unfiltered thoughts on what counts as “disrespectful” in today's game and his most memorable celebration stories from his playing days. Chapters: 0:00 Intro 1:34 Smoltz Joins 1:47 Do Combined No-Hitters Count? 4:21 Cubs or Brewers in NL Central? 7:04 How Do The Brewers Do It? 9:23 Most Disrespectful Celebration Ever? 13:00 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shohei Ohtani continues to do things no one has ever seen before. For the second straight week, Ohtani hit a leadoff home run on the day he pitched, becoming the only starting pitcher in MLB history to do it in back-to-back games. He now ranks 3rd in Dodgers history for career leadoff homers in less than 2.5 years. On the mound, he delivered another strong outing, lowering his ERA to an incredible 0.82! That's the 4th lowest through 9 starts since earned runs became an official stat in 1913. We also dive into: - Ohtani's fiery emotions on the mound (including some loud F-bombs) - His insane two-way dominance compared to Babe Ruth - Why we should never take for granted what Shohei is doing right now Chapters 0:00 Intro 0:41 Shohei Keeps Making History 1:24 Shohei Ohtani Leadoff Homerun 4:48 Shohei Ohtani 6 No-Hit Innings 11:01 Shohei Ohtani is the GOAT 14:04 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tigers Nightmare Season: Might Have to Trade Tarik Skubal? + Christopher Sanchez is UNSTOPPABLE | Flippin' Bats The Detroit Tigers are in a full collapse, sitting at 21-33 after losing 8 games in a row. In this episode we discuss the nightmare scenario they've been dreading: whether the Tigers will be forced to trade Tarik Skubal if they can't turn things around soon. Plus: - The Milwaukee Brewers are a Factory! How they turned Kyle Harrison into an absolute ace (1.77 ERA) with a simple mechanical tweak. - Christopher Sanchez is the most underrated player in sports on a 37.2 scoreless inning streak, currently the favorite to win the NL Cy Young, and putting up historic numbers. - Full Power Rankings + Team of the Week included. Chapters: 0:00 Intro 0:33 Tigers playing BAD baseball 6:10 Brewers are a FACTORY 9:50 Cristopher Sanchez is ELITE 12:55 New MLB Power Rankings 21:45 Team of the Week 26:28 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This Week in Shohei Ohtani News: Leadoff HR + ERA Drops to 0.73… He's BACK! Shohei Ohtani delivered the full superstar experience in the 1st inning! Hitting a leadoff home run (the 2nd time a pitcher has ever done it in MLB history, joining himself) and dominating on the mound. On the mound: 5 IP, 0 ER, 4 K, lowers his season ERA to a ridiculous 0.73 — the lowest through 8 starts in the live-ball era (since 1920) outside of a few all-time great seasons. At the plate: He's absolutely on fire lately! 13 hits in his last 24 at-bats, and he DOMINATED his former team the LA Angels. A “down year” for Ohtani is still a career year for most players. Plus: - The crazy story of the Angels almost trading Ohtani to the Rays for Junior Caminero right before the 2023 deadline - Ohtani's honest post-game comments - Historic two-way dominance Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 0:43 1st Inning Ohtani Experience 1:30 Pitching Performance vs Padres 6:32 Shohei's Offense is BACK 13:40 Ohtani almost traded WHERE?! 18:18 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode we dive into the 3 biggest stories in baseball right now: Tarps Off in STL — The best fan energy in all of sports right now. How a group of college kids from Stephen F. Austin started a shirtless movement that has taken over Busch Stadium and even got manager Oliver Marmol buying out sections for fans. The Phillies Are Back — After a slow start, Philadelphia is rolling under Donnie Baseball. Christopher Sanchez is the Cy Young favorite, Zack Wheeler is dealing, and Kyle Schwarber already has 20 homers. What's Wrong with the Mariners? — My preseason AL West and AL Champion favorite is struggling badly. We break down their terrible offense, the Cal Raleigh regression, and why their pitching hasn't been enough to save them. Plus full MLB Power Rankings and Team of the Week. Chapters: 0:00 Intro 0:29 Rivalry Weekend Recap 2:45 Shirtless in St. Louis?! 6:12 Phillies are ROLLING 10:31 Mariners Surprising Struggles 15:34 MLB Power Rankings 26:48 Team of the Week 32:15 Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices