WAKE and RAKE Podcast

Everything you need to know about Juan Soto's record-breaking deal with the New York Mets. Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti detail every opt out, every dollar amount, and every other team that made offers. Is this deal good or bad for baseball? Plus, projected lineups and next moves. (0:30) Where were you when the Soto deal dropped? ... (2:53) Red Sox "were not far behind" ... (9:09) Willy Adames signing with Giants ... (13:05) Largest contracts in sports history ...(19:10) Shohei Ohtani is worth $700 million .... (21:22) Projected Mets and Yankees lineups ... (29:15) Free agents next to sign ... (31:57) A's bring Luis Severino to Sacramento

Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti react to MLB's announcement regarding the automated ball-strike system starting in 2025 Spring Training. Plus, there is some controversy regarding some of the MLB Award results. (3:57) Pasta and Gladiator II movie reviews ... (7:34) Automated ball-strike system coming in 2025 spring ... (12:57) Catcher framing to be forgotten ... (18:22) 2024 MVP Award voting results ... (22:58) Jackson Merrill should have won NL ROY ... (28:51) Chris Sale's redemption story ... (35:05) Wilyer Abreu got snubbed ... (40:07) Jake Rogers high school football ... (42:54) Turkey Day plans and strategies

Will Middlebrooks is BACK! He and Danny Vietti make their MLB free agent predictions. Plus, Will details the fun behind being an ESPN broadcaster during the MLB playoffs. Juan Soto stays in New York. Willy Adames to Los Angeles? Seattle lands an All-Star hitter! (1:38) Radio broadcasting on ESPN ... (8:48) Fasciitis injuries ... (11:37) Angels have already added 5 players ... (17:58) Juan Soto stays in New York, but which one? ... (22:24) Could the Rays be the mystery team? ... (25:48) Detroit Tigers a sleeping giant? ... (30:35) Giants find their next shortstop ... (34:08) Gleyber Torres to Seattle ... (41:21) Anthony Santander stays in AL East ... (47:20) Pete Alonso vs. Christian Walker ... (50:50) Tyler O'Neill better numbers than Alex Bregman

Danny Vietti lists all of the available 2024-25 free agents available this offseason by position. Plus, the Marlins returns for trades might be all-time bad. And the formerly known Oakland A's have officially switched names. Finally, a strange factoid about Moonlight Graham in the movie Field of Dreams. (2:30) Looking back at Marlins trades of Giancarlo Stanton, JT Realmuto, Christian Yelich ... (11:05) Willson Contreras is switching positions ... (12:01) The Oakland A's have a new name ... (16:36) Ohtani was playing on torn labrum, Freeman had broken rib ... (21:52) Why Freddie Freeman is the best ... (24:32) Angels add two former All-Stars ... (27:50) Free agents by position ... (43:35) Did you know this about the movie Field of Dreams?

Danny Vietti details the 2024 World Series matchup between the Yankees and Dodgers, including betting odds and X-factors. Plus, he explains why there is one particular player he would love to see get a World Series ring. Not to be overlooked, we all believe in Stephen Vogt. (1:50) Big market teams can be a positive thing ... (6:15) Best broadcast calls from LCS ... (7:55) Why Stephen Vogt is the best ... (12:19) This World Series is not an underdog story ... (13:14) Dodgers have a very likable roster ... (21:08) World Series MVP favorites ... (23:00) X-factors for series ... (30:01) World Series predictions

Danny Vietti details why being an MLB general manager might be the most difficult job in all of sports. Recaps of the Dodgers-Padres NLDS and previews for the upcoming LCS series. (4:00) Dodgers-Padres the best product in baseball ... (12:06) Appreciation for the Detroit Tigers ... (21:18) Rooting for Guardians front office is hypocritical ... (18:30) MLB GM is the most difficult job in sports

One move for all 30 MLB teams. One move each team should make at the upcoming 2024 MLB Trade Deadline. Dodgers make yet another blockbuster trade. Astros get Evan Gattis 2.0. Randy Arozarena to Minnesota??? Let's get weird! (3:30) D-Backs acquire Jack Flaherty ... (8:05) Orioles make a deal with Oakland ... (13:15) Cubs move on from Cody Bellinger ... (18:50) AL's best record acquires pair of All-Star arms ... (22:45) Why Tigers trading Tarik Skubal would be HUGE mistake ... (26:01) Astros acquire Evan Gattis 2.0 ... (29:15) Dodgers blockbuster trade for Crochet, Robert ... (34:02) Randy Arozarena to the Twins ... (38:35) A's draft picks already the highest paid on club ... (45:02) Re-visiting Juan Soto trade to Padres ... (47:25) Giants get face of franchise ... (48:35) Mariners front office has failed ... (56:44) Blue Jays must hold onto Vladdy

Is PNC Park at the top? How about Oracle Park? Fenway? Danny Vietti ranks every MLB stadium from 1-30 based on current fan environments and conditions here in 2024. Plus, why relief pitcher Austin Adams might just be the most dangerous pitcher of this generation. (5:15) Austin Adams on track for all-time hit by pitch record ... (10:10) Ultimate MLB ballpark roadtrip ... (17:00) Worst ballpark in baseball ... (21:54) No. 20-25 stadiums ... (24:08) Is Busch Stadium overrated? ... (27:31) Yankee Stadium not even top-15? ... (31:29) Nos. 10-15 ... (35:41) Top-10 MLB Stadiums ... (39:36) Where does Wrigley and Fenway rank? ... (42:59) Should PNC Park be No. 1? ... (44:40) Best MLB stadium is in California

Should Elly De La Cruz no longer be a switch hitter? The splits are mind-boggling. Danny Vietti details 10 switch hitters who have glaring differences in their platoon split statistics, including All-Star players like Ozzie Albies and Ian Happ. Plus, remember when Shane Victorino stopped switch hitting midseason and still won a World Series? (2:01) Shane Victorino stopped switch hitting midseason ... (6:46) Elly De La Cruz is a TERRIBLE right-handed hitter ... (11:01) Why does Ozzie Albies ever bat lefty? ... (18:03) All-Star Cubs outfielder with insane splits ... (23:17) If Patrick Bailey ever figures this part out ... (27:59) Two Cardinals players have splits issues ... (34:25) Elly De La Cuz's GLARING NUMBERS

Rob Manfred said he intends to add two expansions teams in the next decade. But, where? Danny Vietti details why MLB's next expansion should team should be awarded to Latin America, particularly one in the Caribbean. Baseball is no longer king in the United States and it's time to look elsewhere. (1:55) Rumored expansion team cities ... (5:22) MLB vs. NFL ... (10:39) Half of baseball superstars are not from United States ... (14:01) Number of MLB players by country ... (15:04) "The best option is Puerto Rico" ... (19:00) Travel concerns ... (22:15) Puerto Rico is a US territory ... (26:05) Latin American fan environments are ELITE ... (29:16) Concerns about Latin America expansion teams?

Which team is most likely to follow in the footsteps of the Baltimore Orioles as the next great young team? Is it the Nationals? The Reds? Tigers? Danny Vietti ranks the 10 teams that are next in line to become winning teams. Plus, this Luis Arraez-Tony Gwynn comparison will FREAK YOU OUT! (3:39) Luis Arraez has same exact stats as Tony Gwynn ... (7:04) Former Dick's Sporting Goods employee called up to majors ... (9:04) Danny's history of tabbing teams ... (13:14) Least likely franchise to resurrect franchise ... (19:19) Colorado Rockies farm system looks solid ... (23:14) Oakland's predictable playoff cycle ... (27:19) Detroit Tigers could be on the cusp ... (31:35) Pirates ready to compete now ... (36:33) Nationals are the next Orioles? ... (41:40) Looking back at Juan Soto trade ... (45:27) This NL Central team has most promising future

Did the Astros just simply give the Orioles the blueprint for rebuilding a franchise? Danny Vietti details how Mike Elias and the Baltimore front office resurrected a franchise from within that was once a dumpster fire just a short time ago. Plus, the O's have some strange similarities to the Astros dynasty. (3:10) Cam Booser's remarkable comeback story ... (7:03) Orioles resurrection began with D.L. Hall ... (13:30) Orioles first round draft picks ... (16:31) Saying Baltimore tanked for a decade is false ... (19:54) Orioles following Astros blueprint ... (24:27) Astros also hit on draft picks ... (27:36) Lineup in 2019 vs. now ... (32:14) When Orioles players will hit free agency

Detailing and explaining the new rules being implemented for the 2024 MLB season, including the enforcing of obstruction plays, widening of the runner's lane, and pitch clock reduction. Plus, we make our preseason playoff predictions. Pirates win the NL Central? Seriously?! And finally, a film breakdown of Bobby Witt Jr.'s impressive mid-pitch adjustment. (1:01) Changes to podcast ... (4:36) Oakland fan boycott on Opening Day ... (11:22) American League playoff predictions ... (13:29) History tell us 1 losing team will make the playoffs this year ... (17:57) National League playoff predictions ... (21:31) MVP predictions ... (24:12) New MLB rules for 2024 ... (27:23) Umpires to start enforcing obstruction rule ... (30:33) Bobby Witt Jr.'s film breakdown

Part II: In preparation for the 2024 MLB season, Danny Vietti details one reason to be optimistic and one reason to be discouraged for each American League team. Could the Mariners take the leap? Will the A's plan to relocate to Las Vegas fall through? Plus, hear why Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s stats from last season just flat do not make any sense. (1:44) No. 1 picks play each other in Spring Training ... (3:49) AL West glass is half full ... (10:27) Make or break year for Mike Trout ... (18:15) AL Central glass is half full ... (23:08) White Sox are a complete oddity ... (29:17) AL East glass is half full ... (33:54) Why Vladimir Guerrero Jr. will bounce back ... (38:57) What's the direction for the Red Sox?

Spring Training is the only time of year when fans of all 30 teams have hope. Danny Vietti runs through each team in the National League, detailing one reason why the glass is half full and one reason why the glass is half empty for the 2024 season. Perception is reality, right? Plus, major props to Oakland fans and the Pirates front office. (1:06) Cody Bellinger contract details ... (2:59) Oakland fans host Fan Fest ... (11:13) Glass is half full vs. empty for NL West ... (18:27) Fernando Tatis Jr. has a golden opportunity ... (23:14) Glass is half full vs. empty for NL Central ... (32:21) Pirates have playoff potential ... (37:08) Glass is half full vs. empty for NL East ... (42:34) "This is the most intimidating team in baseball"

After acquiring former Cy Young ace Corbin Burnes and the selling of the team, Will Middlebrooks says the Baltimore Orioles have a chance to build something special -- maybe even a dynasty. Full details of the trade, what it means for the NL Central and AL East divisions, and the impact of Theo Epstein returning to Boston. (2:02) Reaction to Corbin Burnes trade ... (7:15) Orioles have a chance at a dynasty? ... (9:51) Status update on Orioles ... (14:30) Brewers' return package and impact on NL Central ... (17:32) Theo Epstein returns to Boston ... (23:39) Red Sox are not ready to compete in 2024 ... (29:00) Middlebrooks is FIRED UP about HOF ballot ... (34:44) Deebo Samuel big leagues Danny at Super Bowl photoshoot

Detroit Tigers to win the AL Central? Pittsburgh Pirates in the playoffs? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti shoot straight from the hip with some BOLD PREDICTIONS for the 2024 MLB season. Plus, future betting odds for the season. Rosters are still changing by the day, so we'll see if these these takes age like milk. (3:38) Tough story about Orioles owner Peter Angelos ... (7:39) Detroit Tigers are BACK! ... (14:17) Angels will be better without Ohtani? ... (18:38) Betting odds for 2024 MVP ... (21:00) Reds to improve or take a step back? ... (24:33) Cy Young Favorites ... (26:24) Fernando Tatis Jr. can lead San Diego to playoffs ... (29:03) Tarik Skubal gets Cy Young votes ... (30:10) Don't be surprised if A's don't move to Vegas

Considering the dominance of Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani and Venezuelan Ronald Acuña Jr., have international athletes now surpassed the Americans as the superior athletes? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti disagree on the subject and discuss. Plus, they provide an update on the latest free agent signings. (1:45) Lucas Giolito, Chris Sale find new homes ... (13:25) Braves have something up their sleeve ... (16:45) Never go on a cruise with kids ... (23:45) Why Jenny Dell refuses to golf ever again ... (28:29) International baseball players this offseason ... (29:49) Are international countries dominating American sports? ... (39:00) Unsigned free agent list

Move over Messi! Shohei Ohtani is now THE RICHEST athlete in the world, of any sport! Will Middlebrooks contextualize Ohtani's record-breaking 10-year/$700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers. And if you think the Dodgers are done making moves, think again. (0:46) Immediate reaction to Ohtani news ... (3:50) Deferred money is crucial ... (6:40) Richest sports contracts in the world ... (14:19) Blue Jays chaos on Friday ... (18:13) Ohtani makes more than Oakland A's ... (22:22) Next year's biggest free agent ... (24:25) Giants the biggest losers? ... (26:17) Polarity in baseball

Former Milwaukee Brewers VP of Player Development and current Nevada Wolf Pack head coach Jake McKinley joins the podcast. How does NIL deals work in college baseball? Why is Brewers top prospect Jackson Chourio the "real deal?" Plus, what makes Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns so special? (4:42) Transitioning into a Div. I baseball head coach ... (6:18) NIL deals in college baseball ... (12:21) NIL college deals for dummies ... (14:41) What makes David Stearns special ... (22:09) Jackson Chourio is the "real deal" ... (26:33) Inside the Mauricio Dubón trade ... (32:11) Jets are a disaster ... (37:45) Favorite Christmas song ... (41:58) "90 is the new 85" for pitchers

Free agency is expected to shift into high gear when the MLB Winter Meetings commence next week. No better time to make our FREE AGENCY and OFFSEASON PREDICTIONS. San Francisco makes a splash? Tyler Glasnow to Southern California? Baltimore adds a Cy Young? Plus, Will Middlebrooks has some inside intel on the Red Sox offseason plans. (5:24) Are Sonny Gray and Tyler Glasnow No. 1 starters? ... (10:24) Tyler Glasnow headed to Southern California? ... (15:20) Red Sox going after two notable starters? ... (20:01) Where does Shohei Ohtani sign? ... (24:04) Yankees will land either Cody Bellinger or Juan Soto ... (28:34) Blue Jays a dark horse free agency player ... (31:10) What are the Braves planning to do? ... (32:35) Baltimore lands a Cy Young? ... (37:15) Rapid fire free agent predictions ... (41:40) College football chat

We all know that Shohei Ohtani is available, but what about the under-the-radar free agents? What about the complimentary players? Let's talk about the Hunter Renfroe and Joc Pedersons of the world. Danny Vietti details 30 free agents that nobody is talking about. (2:08) Aaron Nola returns to Philly ... (7:08) Mitch Garver is available ... (11:50) Middle infielder free agent options ... (17:24) Under-the-radar outfielders available ... (26:10) This free agent has hit 20+ HR in 6 straight seasons ... (27:58) Starting pitcher free agent options ... (32:40) Eric Fedde returning to MLB ... (35:03) Sean Manaea, Nick Martinez among bullpen options

Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti look ahead to the 2023-24 MLB offseason, including a breakdown of the top free agents, potential trade candidates, and clubs looking to make moves. What's the latest on Shohei Ohtani? Could the Red Sox flip the script? Plus, reactions and analysis on the World Series Champion Texas Rangers. (4:15) Rangers World Series reaction ... (9:31) Bruce Bochy is the ultimate drought ender ... (17:14) Rangers have great chance to repeat ... (23:32) Teams that could come out of nowhere in 2024 ... (29:09) Top free agents ... (34:29) Blake Snell is a risky sign ... (38:25) Potential offseason trade candidates ... (41:36) Why Juan Soto to Yankees is recipe for disaster

Let's set the stage. Lineups, rosters, predictions, and complete preview of the 2023 World Series between the Texas Rangers and Arizona Diamondbacks. Plus, Will Middlebrooks shares a very quirky tie between the 2001 Diamondbacks, when they won the World Series, and this year's squad. (1:35) When Arizona pitchers kill a bird, they win ... (7:25) Nathan Eovaldi has chance to become postseason GOAT ... (13:55) Where Arizona and Dallas rank among baseball markets ... (17:35) Better starting rotation? ... (19:07) D-Backs have bullpen advantage ... (23:04) Rangers offense significantly better? ... (25:19) World Series Predictions

Who would have predicted this? The 84-win Arizona Diamondbacks will take on the Texas Rangers in the 2023 World Series. Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti investigate what went wrong with the Phillies, what went right for the D-Backs, and how the Rangers matchup. Plus, we detail the best storylines to watch out for in the Fall Classic. (1:54) Brandon Phaadt was the X-Factor ... (6:59) Why D-Backs manager Torey Lovullo is special ... (11:08) D-Backs are a strange franchise ... (15:20) Why D-Backs-Rangers matchup is GREAT for baseball ... (24:32) Rangers did not just "buy" a title ... (31:25) Buy, build, and develop is the formula ... (35:05) Adolis Garcia's story is incredible ... (39:25) Craig Breslow named Red Sox new head man ... (42:34) Bob Melvin leaves San Diego for San Francisco

Should MLB consider changing the playoff format? Do first round byes put top seeds at a disadvantage? Following the Dodgers and Orioles early exits, Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti propose alterations and discuss the latest playoff drama. Plus, drama in Philadelphia? (3:26) Playoff format changes? ... (9:49) Blaming playoff format is a weak excuse ... (13:30) Data on new playoff format ... (15:46) Clayton Kershaw's inexplainable playoff woes ... (20:57) Evan Longoria back in the LCS ... (23:33) Orlando Arcia-Bryce Harper drama timeline ... (26:36) Need more context with Arcia story ... (30:48) Bryce Harper the ultimate competitor ... (35:33) First glance at Rangers-Astros ALCS

Everything you could possibly need to know about the 2023 MLB Postseason. Pitching matchups, injury statuses, and stats. Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti preview the playoffs and fill out their brackets live on the show. Plus, they discuss the latest in Trevor Bauer's potential return to MLB. (6:18) Will Middlebrooks reacts to the tragic passing of Tim Wakefield ... (10:25) MLB attendance largest in 30 years ... (12:04) Pitch clock and extra innings rules in postseason? ... (14:17) Update on Trevor Bauer ... (16:59) Blue Jays-Twins preview ... (20:37) Rangers vs. Rays preview ... (24:19) Diamondbacks vs. Brewers preview ... (28:14) Marlins vs. Phillies preview ... (31:41) ALCS predictions ... (38:03) NLCS predictions ... (40:42) "This is my World Series" ... (43:20) World Series predictions

What does each team need to make the playoffs? With one weekend remaining in the regular season, Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti detail potential playoff scenarios. The NL Wild Card and AL West division are still up for grabs. Plus, Ronald Acuña Jr.'s 40/70 season and strange happenings in Seattle. (1:11) Middlebrooks gives Red Sox-Ohtani ... (5:35) Phillies woman ROASTED Middlebrooks as a rookie ... (9:17) Bryce Harper is living out Mike Trout's dream ... (13:38) Drama surrounding Acuña's 40/70 moment ... (20:15) Farewell to Terry Francona ... (24:47) NL Wild Card scenarios ... (28:02) AL West division up for grabs

Which team has the best starting rotation heading into the 2023 MLB postseason? Danny Vietti and the crew discuss which starting rotation they would most like to have for the playoffs. Plus, could we see Major League Baseball implement a new pitch count restriction or minimum day off rule? (2:55) Best starting rotation for the playoffs ... (12:24) Padres what-if in extra innings ... (13:43) Braves rotation hit by injury bug ... (19:11) Central division teams have the best rotations ... (20:12) Logan Webb is an absolute DAWG ... (29:07) Pitch restrictions on MLB pitchers? ... (37:10) Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce love story

With Chaim Bloom out in Boston, Will Middlebrooks believes the Red Sox are preparing to make a run at Shohei Ohtani. Plus, the Oakland A's gifted Miguel Cabrera a $90 bottle of wine that is available at the local grocery store for his retirement. And, yeah, we went off the RAILS on this episode. (1:01) Most expensive bottle of wine ... (8:17) Investigating Oakland's wine gift to Miggy ... (11:01) Will used a Rawlings rep for tee-ball gloves ... (14:57) Bottle of wine still not the worst gift Miggy has received ... (16:51) Did Chaim Bloom deserved to be fired? ... (23:12) Red Sox GM candidates ... (32:11) Red Sox in pursuit of Shohei Ohtani? ... (34:40) Padres following the 2007 Rockies blueprint ... (37:55) Looking ahead to playoffs

The Rays released renderings for their new stadium and the A's are likely moving Las Vegas, which begs the question...which club now owns the WORST STADIUM in MLB? We discuss. We also try out a new podcast format with some new members joining the show. Plus, why did the Phillies congratulate the Braves on winning the division? (0:45) Meet new members of the podcast ... (3:18) Reactions to Rays new stadium renderings ... (6:42) New worst stadium in MLB? ... (10:40) Which teams have botched new stadiums? ... (14:31) Phillies congratulate Braves on winning division ... (19:36) Could the Padres do the unthinkable? ... (27:28) Farm system rankings ... (29:39) Tom Verducci slams Giants' analytical approach ... (35:27) Yankees or Red Sox more disappointing? ... (38:23) Aaron Boone and Chaim Bloom to San Diego?

Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti are BACK! MLB playoff races are coming down to the wire, we break those all down. Will is fired up about a certain Mariners pitcher for his postgame comments. And is it really possible to have too much late discipline? Plus, some new faces will be joining the podcast. (2:38) Four teams battling for one NL Wild Card spot ... (8:46) Wait, Mariners pitcher George Kirby said WHAT?!? ... (14:41) Concern level with Rangers ... (17:18) Newfound respect for the Dodgers ... (24:04) Fear of failure in playoffs ... (27:11) Is it possible to have too much plate discipline? ... (36:31) Juan Soto will make more money if he does this

Will Middlebrooks is BACK...and just in time for the 2023 MLB Trade Deadline! Will and Danny make some bold predictions and discuss some of the latest rumors and stirs around the league. Justin Verlander to Baltimore? Goldschmidt on the trading block? (0:48) Will Middlebrooks returns ... (3:59) Max Scherzer trade to Texas an overpay? ... (8:50) Assessing Baltimore Orioles' pitchers ... (14:30) Seven contenders for NL Wild Card ... (22:31) Red Sox buying and selling? ... (27:51) Angels are going for it all ... (29:57) Bold predictions for deadline

Not only are the Los Angeles Angels holding onto Shohei Ohtani, but now they are BUYERS! And they are already making moves, trading for Lucas Giolito and Reynaldo Lopez. They aren't done either. Danny Vietti discusses some of the under the radar trade candidates who could be moved before the MLB Trade Deadline. (1:30) Lucas Giolito trade reaction and details ... (5:22) Standings update ... (8:20) Could Charlie Blackmon be a trade candidate? ... (14:42) Ji-Man Choi RAKES off of righties ... (21:40) Lefty specialist with a 30 percent strikeout rate ... (22:40) Could Patrick Corbin get moved? ... (30:42) Reds in similar position as last year's Orioles

Shohei Ohtani to the AL East? Dodgers make a blockbuster trade? Paul Goldschmidt back? We take a crack at playing MLB TRADE MATCHMAKER: matching 20 trade deadline candidates with the absolute perfect destination, based on fit and need. Danny Vietti breaks it all down and is joined by his pops, Paul Vietti. (0:42) Odds of Ohtani being traded? ... (7:37) Ohtani makes the most sense on this AL East contender ... (12:36) Will AJ Preller and the Padres buy or sell? ... (18:19) Dylan Cease to Southern California? ... (26:17) Cincinnati targeting Giolito? ... (33:41) More people should be discussing Paul Goldschmidt trade rumors ... (38:10) Phillies should look to add southpaw starter ... (45:13) CJ Cron's concerning home-away splits ... (47:45) What should Padres and Mets do?

Mark Appel was labeled the "biggest draft bust in MLB history." After being selected No. 1 overall in the 2013 MLB Draft, Appel left baseball completely. Despite the odds, he made a comeback attempt a few years later and finally made his MLB debut nearly a decade after being drafted. He joins the show to share his unrivaled redemption story and tells us why his story is far from over. (4:37) Mark Appel provides update after surgery ... (11:55) Power to inspire others ... (16:27) Appel's reason for his comeback ... (23:40) How a church friend prepared Appel for Phillies fan base ... (28:14) What if Appel did not get chosen No. 1 overall ... (34:53) Why Phillies re-signed him after leaving the game ... (46:13) Mark's worst fan interaction story

Leaving Fernando Tatis Jr. off the All-Star roster is a crime against humanity. The numbers do not lie. Danny Vietti lists and details his BIGGEST SNUBS that were left off the 2023 MLB All-Star rosters. Plus, how did a legit Cy Young candidate get left off? (5:38) Might be the BIGGEST SNUB OF ALL-TIME ... (10:56) They picked the wrong Red Sox player ... (15:05) Reds' rookie over Austin Riley? ... (17:46) NL All-Star pitching staff makes no sense ... (20:28) Cy Young candidate left off roster ... (23:50) Coin flip snubs ... (26:30) Vladdy Jr. is 57th in fWAR ... (27:54) HR Derby Participants

Hours before the reverse boycott in Oakland, news dropped that the Athletics received approval from the state of Nevada legislature to build a stadium in Las Vegas. This is all of the audio from Danny Vietti's conversations with fans at the Oakland Coliseum tailgate. CAUTION: this episode is completely UNCENSORED and includes inappropriate language (NSFW). (0:45) Thoughts and prayers to Ryan Mallett's family and friends ... (5:01) Interview with "Right Field Will" ... (8:35) Fan shares emotional connection with team and father ... (23:40) "I don't think it's too late" ... (33:37) A's fan GOES OFF on impressive rant ... (49:09) Update on A's relocation

Could you imagine a house with all of George Brett, Bret Saberhagen, and Mark Gubicza? Former 2x All-Star, World Series Champion, and current Angels color commentator Mark Gubicza joins the show. He tells us what it was like playing with Bo Jackson and shares details about the daily dialogue he shares with Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani. (3:34) Mark Gubicza joins the show ... (7:58) How Gubie and Saberhagen snuck onto the Royals roster ... (12:01) Being teammates with Bo Jackson ... (18:15) Is Mike Trout less marketable than Derek Jeter? ... (23:30) Gubie's trade rumor conversations with Ohtani ... (27:39) Rapid fire with Gubie ... (30:15) Most underrated player on Angels?

The Reds, Diamondbacks, Rangers, and Marlins are all playoff teams. Meanwhile, the Dodgers are in third place and the Cardinals and Red Sox are in last place. It's June. WTF is going on?!? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti dive into the standings and these surprising clubs. (4:50) Will Middlebrooks got booted for sitting in somebody's seats ... (9:30) Has a team with a losing record made the playoffs? ... (11:38) Assessing the Twins and the terrible AL Central ... (15:21) Is Sandy Alcantara tipping his pitches? ... (22:33) Luis Arraez is hitting .400 again! ... (29:24) Does hitting .400 guarantee the MVP award? ... (31:12) Self-proclaimed America's Team ... (36:26) Are the D-Backs the best team in the West? ... (40:11) Will the Angels finally end the drought?

After attending the Oakland A's fan reverse boycott on Tuesday night, Danny Vietti shares his thoughts and takeaways. Will Middlebrooks details the young up-and-coming teams to watch out for, including the Baltimore Orioles and Arizona Diamondbacks. (1:10) Reverse boycott reaction ... (8:00) Time to panic in St. Louis ... (9:15) Rebuild is completely over for this club ... (14:01) Guardians make surprising move with star arm ... (18:45) Diamondbacks are not going anywhere ... (22:02) Pitching trade candidates ... (24:41) Angels shortstop has a sexy swing ... (26:51) Elly De La Cruz the best product in baseball right now ... (31:44) Pirates still in first place ... (36:04) Power hitters who can hit the ball furthest

Who is the most dominant closer in Major League Baseball right now? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti rank the best of the best 1-10. It was a lot harder than anticipated. Who did we leave off? Listen to find out. (1:50) Will's broadcasting routine on the road ... (7:21) Honorable mention closer list ... (9:40) Our closer at No. 10 has a 0.46 ERA ... (12.28) This closer is averaging 102-mph ... (14:08) Twins reliever confused water with Powerade ... (15:35) Padres and Phillies miss the playoffs? ... (17:55) Former All-Star players you may have forgotten ... (20:01) David Bednar has 30 strikeouts, 1 walk ... (28:50) 18.32 strikeouts per nine is INSANE! ... (31:31) Best closer in MLB right now ... (33:55) Boston-Cleveland preview ... (35:40) Can Luis Arraez hit .400 this year?

Who has the best offensive lineup in baseball right now? We have the stats and data to back it up, as Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti rank them 1-10. Rays? Braves? Our top-3 might surprise you, and No. 10 is guaranteed to make you think. (4:36) Boston sports teams emulate their city ... (8:51) Lineup power rankings ... (9:30) San Francisco has a sneaky productive lineup ... (13:20) "He is new age Buster Posey" ... (18:01) Nolan Gorman: most improved hitter? ... (18:57) Red Sox have a top-5 offense ... (23:19) Rangers offense is one of the best in baseball ... (26:56) Rays or Braves take the No. 1 spot?

Will Middlebrooks and and Danny Vietti hand out grades for each MLB team through the first quarter of the season. Both agreed one particular team -- an expected contender -- deserves a big fat F! REPORT CARDS! (6:05) This Southern California squad gets an A ... (8:10) Should the Padres get an F? ... (11:05) Only team to receive an A+ grade ... (17:09) New York team grades ... (23:45) NL Central contender get an F ... (31:43) Angels have just flat not been good enough

The Yankees were accused of cheating on Monday and found guilty for another crime the very next day. The Cardinals are publicly calling out players. And the Mets are struggling. MLB is dealing with a lot of high school drama. Should picking opposing teams' signs be considered cheating? What is our panic meter at? (2:55) Drama between Blue Jays and Yankees ... (4:58) The truth behind picking signs ... (12:58) Unwritten rules for picking signs ... (16:55) Concern level for Mets is "high" ... (24:40) Cardinals have no feel as an organization this year, which is shocking ... (31:08) How to fix the San Diego Padres ... (34:17) Familiar team is the team to beat in NL West

If you didn't know the player names and had only their statistics to make your selection, which player would you choose? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti take a look at side-by-side blind resumes and make their selections for which player they would rather have. The players' names are then revealed after they make their picks. Brooksy was STUNNED to hear the last one. (2:52) Big takeaways from first month of the season ... (3:11) Yankees are in trouble ... (6:25) Wander Franco's ball flip sets Twitter on fire ... (8:27) Updates league numbers with new rules ... (11:15) Fans protesting in Oakland ... (17:49) Is MLB a news medium? ... (23:11) Balls were flying in Mexico City Series ... (25:07) Blind resumes ... (34:05) Will Middlebrooks' was on the same path as this superstar third baseman

Are the Orioles and Pirates actually the two best teams in baseball? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti try to figure out how so many low-payroll teams are finding success this season. You have to hear why Will believes the Orioles are the real deal. (6:57) Will's conversation with Mike Trout in Boston ... (10:35) The truth behind the A's relocating to Las Vegas ... (15:41) NL Central is wide open ... (19:57) Pirates the best team in the NL? ... (23:30) Low payroll teams dominating the league ... (25:45) Assessing the Orioles' ceiling ... (27:34) Way-too-early look at upcoming free agents ... (35:31) Reaction to Tatis dancing in the outfield ... (39:49) Most underrated bullpen in baseball? ... (43:17) Where MLB went wrong in Max Scherzer's sticky situation

Time to overreact? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti discuss their biggest takeaways from the first couple weeks of the season. Plus, we have updated pitch clock data on game times, offensive production, and attendance. (3:27) How important is a hot start? ... (6:41) Red Sox are still a "fun team" ... (11:02) Anthony Rendon suspension ... (15:08) Scoring and home runs are up, game times down ... (22:11) Rays are dismantling teams ... (28:10) Concern with Francisco Lindor's swing? ... (30:45) Minor league team throws no-hitter, loses 7-5 ... (34:11) Brewers at the top of the NL Central ... (36:26) Oli Marmol's public benching of Tyler O'Neill was "trash" ... (42:01) Confusion with certain pitch clock language

Happy Opening Day to all that celebrate! We wrap up our divisional previews with the AL West and NL West with special guest Jessica Kleinschmidt. Hear why the Padres are, unarguably, a better team on paper than any team in the NL West and possibly the entire National League. Also, will the Los Angeles Angels finally break the longest playoff drought in baseball? We say yes! (4:52) Sergio Romo's master of craft legacy ... (8:36) Astros have the highest win total line ... (12:25) This AL West team had a sneaky good offseason ... (17:00) Rangers spent money, but is it enough? ... (22:38) Most important season in Angels franchise history? ... (27:38) Are the Oakland A's the worst team in baseball? ... (33:51) Dodgers lost nearly 10 starters ... (36:50) Padres poised to win 100 games? ... (42:50) Giants are sneaky and creative ... (49:02) D-Backs are under-appreciated ... (52:54) Rockies win total is the best bet in the division ... (55:33) Real or fictional player?

The St. Louis Cardinals are built to be a World Series contender, but can a dark horse team in the division make some noise? AL Central will be a three-team fight to the finish line and could feature some AL Pennant contenders. (1:58) Media attention in central ... (6:36) Guardians are the hottest ticket to win AL Pennant ... (10:10) Why the Twins are a sleepy AL Pennant contender ... (16:25) This team could win the division or finish in last place ... (21:27) Will likes the over for the Tigers ... (26:25) Royals had a surprisingly good home record last year ... (29:36) Cardinals win total is a steal ... (32:10) Cardinals the best franchise in MLB? ... (33:50) Brewers are in a bad place ... (38:18) Will likes the Cubs as playoff contenders ... (42:12) Pirates have a surprisingly sneaky lineup ... (44:24) Glass is half full for Reds fans

Will the Atlanta Braves repeat as champs or could Steve Cohen and his super piggy bank finally get the Mets over the hump? And don't forget about the reigning NL Champion Phillies. The NL East division is absolutely STACKED. Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti detail everything you need to know before Opening Day. Plus, we draw named to see who will be players in the first ever WAR Fantasy Baseball League. (3:07) Braves even better than last year? ... (6:42) Mets bullpen trade options ... (12:01) Edwin Diaz injury impact on win total ... (21:44) Bryce Harper could be back in May ... (23:45) Phillies the best over/under bet ... (25:49) Could the Marlins sneak into the playoffs? ... (29:36) Zero chance the Nationals win 60 games ... (33:26) Fantasy Baseball League Name Drawing