The Book of Joe with Joe Maddon & Tom Verducci

Hosts Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci dive in with the Yankees changing closers after just 8 innings for Devin Williams. Joe explains the timing and reasoning for making such an early switch. Tom is floored by the start of the Rockies and sees a trend with bad teams getting worse. We switch gears to soccer and a new head coach doing things a bit differently and Joe loves it! What happened in baseball that's more rare than a perfect game? Plus, how long will it take for the Dodgers to get back on track? The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Almost a month into the season, Hosts Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci are in awe of the performance from Aaron Judge. Tom shares some of the early eye-popping numbers from the Yankees. Joe has been shocked by the Cubs offense and praises Kyle Tucker as the reason. Tom highlights Braves' manager Brian Snitker being called out by his own player and Joe reflects on his own experiences to explain how this is handled. Plus, Shohei Ohtani adds another accomplishment to his resume...Father! The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How much can you believe from the baseball being played in April? Hosts Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci recap The Masters with the 'relief' from Rory McIlroy to finally win the tournament. Joe saw the same relief from the Cubs when they won the World Series, so we look at where Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo and Kyle Schwarber are now. Tom highlights the starts of the Rockies, the Marlins, and the Padres....all with unique stories to tell in April. Plus, Joe talks about managers handling the media and how he spoke at press conferences. The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hosts Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci prepare for The Masters with a visit from NBC Golf Analyst John Wood. Watching baseball work it's way through the 'torpedo' bat, John helps us compare golf's head first dive into technology assisting player performance. We explore how the game has changed through equipment and course construction. Has golf experienced the same increase with injuries that we've seen in baseball? Moving back to the diamond, which team is the 'fastest' team in MLB right now? Tom and Joe wrap up with their predictions for The Masters. The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's a lot of news for the first week of the season! Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci compare the use of 'torpedo' bats in baseball to a golfer trying different clubs. Joe explains how a batter finds a bat that works for him and how analytics are once again changing the game. Tom notes the rough start for Rafael Devers while Joe offers up some drastic changes to turn things around. Atlanta has also struggled out of the gate and the PED news with Jurickson Profar is an early dagger. The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci welcome every team to the 2025 season! What trends are we seeing on the field and could it be affecting the integrity of the game? Tom looks at the changes that teams have made and how it will affect their outcome in 2025. Joe and Tom compare their picks and share which teams they're a bit skeptical of out of the gate. Which teams will make it to the World Series? Plus, we reveal who will win the individual awards when the season is over! The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci open the 2025 MLB Season with the Dodgers and Cubs in Tokyo. LA wins both games, but what can be taken from the series? Tom discusses seeing Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki in action. Joe reveals his approach to opening and planning for a season. How hard is it to shape your roster and tell someone that their MLB dream is over? The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci discuss the danger of pitching injuries in Spring Training. The first big news coming with Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole needing TJ surgery. What other pitching stories have we seen this Spring? Tom shares an idea fom Max Scherzer to try and have pitchers go more often and pitch longer. Why is Barry Bonds talking about Shohei Ohtani? Tom honors a couple baseball legends and looks at the impact they're still having on the game. Plus, we react to Dave Roberts signing his record-setting extension with the Dodgers. The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci discuss the decline of middle-class players in the league and the challenges they face as the sport evolves. How has training in the Spring changed for athletes? We're surprised Anthony Rizzo still isn't on a team, but what does that say about how rosters are being built? Joe stresses the importance of a balanced lineup of youth and experience. Tom reflects on 'baseball-lifers' and the impact they had on the sport that can still be seen today! The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci discuss Opening Day being around the corner and teams still looking for controlled velocity despite the impact on injuries. Which teams are the favorites to land former Cy Young pitcher Sandy Alcantara? We reflect on the team policies of George Steinbrenner and how things are changing with the Yankees updated rules on facial hair. Plus, Tom remembers the career of knuckleballer Eddie Fisher, who passed away this week. The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci discuss Spring Training getting underway and how teams set the right tone. We'll be watching Mike Trout moving to right field, Shohei Ohtani back on the mound, and Rafael Devers with the Red Sox. Tom explores the potential trade prospects for Vlad Guerrero while touching on the heartbreak felt by Aaron Judge after the Yankees' World Series loss. When it comes to financial strategy, are you behind the Yankees or the Mets right now? The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After watching the Eagles win the Super Bowl, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci discuss the impact of coaching and teaching. Tom highlights the path of head coach Nick Sirianni and Defensive Coordinator Vic Fangio. Joe explains when he thinks the game turned and when he thought the Eagles were going to win. Turning our attention back to baseball, Tom looks at the timeline for Shohei Ohtani and when we could see him back on the pitching mound. The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci discuss how the Chiefs have had so much success with Patrick Mahomes. Could a team like the Dodgers have similar success year after year? Tom compares the winning in the NFL against how a team has to win in baseball. In other news, MLB umpire Pat Hoberg was fired after an investigation revealed his connections to gambling. Joe gives his thoughts on betting being so parallel to sports. Plus, Tom wants Joe's opinion on the lack of reading in today's schools and society. The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci discuss the 100th Baseball Writer's Dinner and the history of the event. The evening highlighted the achievements of Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge amongst others. Tom gave out the final award and explains how he ended up sharing the stage with Grimace! We explore a few rule changes going into effect for next season before highlighting some Winter baseball news. Plus, what does Joe think about Pete Carroll coming back to the NFL as head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders? The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci discuss the three new Hall of Famers. Ichiro wasn't unanimous, but does it matter who didn't vote for him? Tom questions the future of PED users in the HOF and if a hard stance ever changes. We look at the candidates for next season and how voting could play out. Also, the Dodgers add two pitchers and have an embarrassment of riches in the clubhouse! Is it 'good' for baseball? Joe explains how teams have to approach beating the Dodgers' super team. The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci look at the career of Ichiro Suzuki and how his career of hitting singles will put him in the Hall of Fame! Former MLB'er Bubba Thompson is going back to college to play football at South Alabama which takes us to multi-sport athletes and Joe working with Bo Jackson. Joe explains how tough it is to predict a players success, even when they have incredible talent. Plus, Tom remembers the life and career of Felix Mantilla. The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci explore the current state of first base in MLB. Joe describes his 'prototype' first baseman and gives his thoughts on Pete Alonso's future deal moving so slowly. What obstacles could be in the way of Billy Wagner's Hall of Fame chances? Tom highlights a court ruling that could change the landscape of College Baseball. Plus, our yearly look at what the hot cars for 2024 were and what new ride could Joe be adding to his fleet? The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci give 25 reasons to be excited about MLB 2025! Tom highlights some scheduled dates this season including the Mets retiring David Wright's #5. Which milestones will some future Hall of Famers be crossing in 2025? After an exciting start wih the Tokyo Series, Joe gives his thoughts on the coming MLB Speedway Classic at Bristol Motor Speedway. Plus, what players will end 2025 as Hall of Famers? Happy New Year! The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci remember the Hall of Fame career of Rickey Henderson. Tom recalls covering Rickey at different times of career while Joe played against him in the minor leagues. After sharing a few of unforgettable stories, Joe talks about managing 'personalities' and how different today's star players are in the game. There's some doubt that a player like Henderson could exist in the current state of baseball and the media. The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci are getting ready for the Holiday season. The Yankees sign Cody Bellinger, how will he fit into their roster makeover? Tom explains a new study on pitching and the increase in injuries. What can teams learn from this latest research? The fixes could be simple, but will all teams follow suit? Plus, Joe and Tom remember their favorite gifts while exploring some actual baseball items available for gifts this season! The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci react to Juan Soto's deal with the Mets. Tom joins us from Baseball's Winter meetings in Dallas and describes the reactions to the size of the deal. What other pieces do the Mets need and where will the Yankees go from here? Plus, Joe gives his thoughts on Dick Allen and Dave Parker making the cut for the Hall of Fame. The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci look at offseason adjustments and how teams will be rebuilding their rosters.  Joe explains why pitchers have become a unique challenge to sign and manage.  Tom lays out the free agency landscape to see who should draw the most interest. It's time to vote on who will be the next class of Hall of Famers, so who are the favorites?  Plus, technology and training has never been better...but what's the one thing missing from today's players? The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci recall some of their Thanksgiving traditions.  Tom looks ahead to the coming trials of robot ump while Joe hopes it doesn't take away any managerial advantages.  We discuss the Angels deal with pitcher Yusei Kikuchi and how he'll impact this roster.  Tom mentions the passing of former MLB player Rico Carty and remembers his hitting career.  Wrapping up, Joe touches on recent coaching changes and the challenging atmosphere these coaches are put in. The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci look at next season stadium situations for the A's and Rays. After his time in Tampa, Joe talks about the challenges around getting a new stadium and the support of the community.  Onto the future of pitcher Paul Skenes and what concerns there are as the Rookie of the Year moves into his second season.  We also explore the influx of younger managers and how these former players will impact how games are managed.  Plus, what does a new study on 'What I want to be when I grow up' say about the future of sports? The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let the offseason dealing begin!  In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci explain how the bidding for pitcher Roki Sasaki works for each team.  Awards season is coming up and Tom notes the youth movement in managers and how well some of them performed.  Joe gives his thoughts on Aaron Boone in NY and what's next for the Yankees.   Our hosts then explore the musical career of Peter Frampton, his rise to fame, and similarities to baseball players who had short-lived but impactful careers.  The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci look to see what lessons we learned in the 2024 World Series.   Can other teams follow the Dodgers game plan or blueprint?  Tom puts focus on the upcoming free agency of Juan Soto and Pete Alonso.  Joe gives his thoughts on teams revamping their lineups and where Soto and Alonso could fit in.  Plus, Tom explains why the home run has never been more important! The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci celebrate the Dodgers winning another World Championship.  We explore the turning points of the series and what decisions could've been made differently by the managers.  Tom takes us through the pivotal inning in Game 5 to show what ultimately led to the Dodgers winning.  Both teams now look forward and start asking questions about changes for next season! The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci prepare for the World Series between the Dodgers and Yankees.  Joe talks about the history of the teams and the legacies of the matchup.  What should you expect to see from Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge?  Joe explains how we would approach both as an opponent.  Plus, find out who Tom and Joe ultimately see winning the series! The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci discuss the ALCS and the NLCS.  Performing in October is a different type of pressure and game.  We touch on the teams that went home early and what they'll need before next season.  Tom feels the Yankees can almost be 'boring' to watch because they're so patient.  Joe explains how a manager stays in the moment while keeping the big picture of the series in mind.  Back to the Phillies and Padres, were there too many expectations? The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci prepare for the NLDS and the ALDS.  Joe explains how a lot of the 'rules' of the game can go out of the window.  There is a lot of strategy and finding a way to apply pressure in important moments.  Tom explains which teams he believes have the edge in this round.  Find out which team got the worst possible matchup while one team's path to the World Series is wide open.  Plus, how does Terry Francona fit in Cincinnati? The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci put playoff time aside for a moment to discuss the passing of a baseball legend.  Pete Rose was polarizing while still being an ambassador for the game.  Joe talks about how Pete played the game in a way that's no longer allowed.  Tom looks back at a story he wrote after driving from Los Angeles to Las Vegas with Pete behind the wheel of his Bentley.  Onto the Playoffs, Tom and Joe take their first look at the wildcard matchups.  Who is the one team that might shake things up a bit? The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.#fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci prepare themselves for the final week of the regular season!  But first, Tom thinks it's time to crown a new player as the greatest living baseball player.  Who are the candidates? With some team's seasons coming to a close, what changes will we be seeing?  Joe discusses how teams set goals then plan for how to accomplish those goals.  Tom wraps up with the impact of JD Souther on the Southern California rock sound of the 70's. The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.#fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci welcome Nationals GM Mike Rizzo to the podcast!  Mike talks about being a player under Joe Maddon and how his career went from playing to being in the front office.  We touch on blending old school and new methods to improve scouting and player evaluations.  Joe stresses how he prefers leadership by empowerment, not leadership by control. We wrap up by honoring Ed Kranepool and James Earl Jones, noting their contributions to the baseball community. The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.#fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci, we begin September with an eye on the postseason races.  Tom points out another milestone that Shohei Ohtani is chasing this season.  Have the new rules helped teams with stealing bases?  Joe explains his approach and strategy on the bases and how that's changed.   Plus, we touch on the A's leaving Oakland and the future changes for the franchise. The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.#fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci look at hitting and the unbelievable skill of Aaron Judge at the plate.  Joe explains the tips and tricks he used to keep his batters prepared.  Tom is amazed how the Mariners can have such great pitching, but completely miss the mark with hitting.  Speaking of pitching, we highlight the best players on the mound this year and their strategies against the great hitters. The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.#fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci discuss teams picking up their levels of play.  We focus on the importance of the bullpen and the teams that are the most solid.  Is Shohei Ohtani your NL MVP favorite as a DH?  We move to music and talk about it's impact on the game.  Joe explains why he likes walk-up music and how it took some time for the rally monkey to catch on in Anaheim! The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.#fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode 101 of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast continues with Jerry Seinfeld asking Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci his baseball questions! Jerry is curious about nightly baseball routines and wants to know who our hosts see in the World Series.  Comparing baseball to comedy, Jerry reveals some of the pitfalls he avoided and how he kept his career on track.  We wrap our conversation with the comedy icon in the latest episode of 'The Book of Joe'.  The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.#fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're celebrating Episode 100 of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast and what better way than to welcome a special guest to the show!  Jerry Seinfeld joins Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci and to explain why he loves baseball so much and how it compares to his day job.  Jerry brings up the new rules and reveals one thought that doesn't fit his traditionalist background!  Check out Part One of Jerry Seinfeld on 'The Book of Joe'! The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.#fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci explain why we didn't see any blockbuster deals before the trade deadline.  Which team made the most impactful moves that will make a difference? Tom was puzzled by the Orioles and seeing the Rays/Marlins combine to move 18 players.  Plus, a tease for a very special guest coming up on Episode 100 of The Book of Joe! The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.#fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci recap Hall of Fame weekend sharing stories of Jim Leyland, Adrian Beltre, Todd Helton, and Joe Mauer.  The Trading Deadline is July 30th.  Which teams are looking to deal and what contenders will be stocking the shelves.  Tom offers up several names on the block while Joe explains why some deals shouldn't be done! The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.#fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci look back at the All Star Game.  From the uniforms to the players, what were the best and worst parts of the mid-season classic?  The MLB trade deadline is July 30th, who are the players that could be on the move?  Tom highlights the needs of some of the contending teams.  Plus, we remember the life and impact of pitcher Jerry Walker. The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.#fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci get prepared for the All Star break with Joe's memories and preferences for the game.  Tom voices his support for Paul Skenes, but should be start? Cubs' pitcher Colten Brewer breaks his hand punching a wall, but that's not the oddest injury we've seen in baseball.  Plus, after some memories of the Vista Cruiser and sitting in the 'way back', Joe explains why he was happy to get a speeding ticket. The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.#fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.