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Two tales of children whose adult life in baseball might have been influenced by childhood fears real and imagined (but mostly real). First, the speed-king of 1880s baseball (since dethroned or at least debunked) has to watch his parents await the arrival and Robert E. Lee and his hordes on their doorstep. Then we return to John McGraw, his dangerous youth, his possible encounters with Mark Twain, and an afterlife wish-list of writers, actors, and cartoonists posted by an obscure writer who soon thereafter journeyed to the next world to meet them himself. We then conclude by debating if young McGraw had better options for escaping his dilemma than we do today. The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
This week we present two stories from our archive of people who learned something about their childhood later in life.Part 1: Growing up in the fifties and sixties, Jenice Matias senses there's more to her mother's occupation than she understands. Part 2: D.B. Firstman has always known their body is different, but at the age of thirty, they make a discovery that changes everything. Jenice Matias is a multifaceted artist—a dancer, singer, actress, comedy jenice matias is writer, dancer. Singer, comedian, improviser actress and storyteller. She has garnered recognition for her bold, fearless personal stories featured on popular podcasts. She has performed across various renowned storytelling platforms such as The Moth Risk. The Monti and The Story Collider. In addition to storytelling, she has written and performed in several solo comedy shows receiving accolades for her performance. You can learn more about her background and upcoming projects by visiting her official Jenice Matias Website.Now going by David Firstman and using he/him pronouns, he is a lifelong New Yorker born and raised in Queens. A career-long civil servant, he is a data analyst for the City of New York, crunching numbers in Excel and SPSS. A lifelong baseball fan, he had his work published on ESPN.COM and BaseballProspectus.com, as well as in the SABR Baseball Research Journal. His first book, “Hall of Name" was published in 2020 and his second book "Chasing 56" will be coming out early 2027. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Where were you when Kyle Schwarber and the Phillies shocked the world with the team's first walk-off home run in more than three years? On this episode of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight and Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh recap an insane Sunday comeback by the Phils against the Cardinals. They also delve into "The Phillies Phive," five big takeaways and topics from the weekend, including impressive starts from Andrew Painter and Jesus Luzardo, the offense's incredible continued transformation and the suddenly razor thin NL East standings.
Two stories featuring one of the more rage-addicted pitchers of all time (no, not Johnny Allen, but good guess), one in which he overestimated a Hall of Famer's rigidity and got ejected for it, another when he had simply had enough and removed himself from the situation—a self-destructive impulse that, in select circumstances, it might well be liberating to emulate. Plus: We revisit a segment on Tommy John, who passed away this week, and an occasion when his pitching arm was badly hurt—no, not that time. Another one! The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
Two stories in which the players' absence from the narrative is the point: First, we go back to John McGraw's first right fielder with the Giants, a speed-based player who was supposed to be a nice guy, but still found occasion to heave this bat at the opposition. Then we visit a St. Louis Stars great who took a drink—or a lot of them—from the wrong bottle and ended up stiff and cold in San Diego. We ought to know more. Why don't we? The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
Blake is joined by Mitch Bannon from The Athletic to break down the Jays second consecutive win over the Red Sox, the play from rookie Brett Bateman in his first stint with the Blue Jays, Spencer Miles collecting his first big league save, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s continued struggles at the plate. Then, Chris Cotillo (27:33) from MassLive joins the show to further discuss the Red Sox side of the series, including Chad Tracy's bullpen decisions, and how the team has been able to sustain their second half success. Later, Ben Clemens (49:57), FanGraphs writer, jumps on with Blake to chat about the Blue Jays pitching staff, their decisions at the trade deadline, and their struggles with injury this season. Finally, Mario Delgado (1:21:17) Genzor from Baseball Prospectus, joins the show to discuss becoming a baseball fan while living in Spain, and why he chose to follow the Rockies, before getting into Colorado's decisions at the trade deadline, and the benefits between different arm rotations for pitchers. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Over a hundred years ago, a forward-thinking sportswriter suggests that a certain Yankees slugger might solve a munitions crisis much like the one the United States military is reportedly suffering from today. Then we turn to the Giants of the John McGraw era for one of the more obscure Hall of Famers, one very different from Ruth but, like the Babe and the “platinum blonde” actress Jean Harlow, he got a raw deal from his own body. The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
Luis Arraez' arrival in Philadelphia couldn't have come at a better time, playing a key role in the Phillies' series against the Washington Nationals this week. On Episode 1111 of Hittin' Season, Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher from SABR's Baseball Research Journal recaps the Phils' series victory over the Nats, putting the "fun" in fundamentals, Kyle Schwarber's recent slump, and the importance of Bryce Harper's move to right field.
The MLB Trade Deadline has come and gone and the Phillies made some big moves, acquiring Giants infielder Luis Arraez and relief pitcher Brooks Raley and Caleb Kilian. But was it enough to keep up with the Dodgers, Brewers, Cubs and the other top teams in the National League? On this episode of Hittin' Season, hosts John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Liz Roscher, editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal, and Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh recap a wild trade deadline day, Dave Dombrowski's decision not to trade for a starting pitcher, and analyze fan reaction to the day's events. Also, some conversation about Los Angeles somehow nabbing the best starting pitcher in the sport, Tarik Skubal, over the weekend.
Blake Murphy is joined by Sportsnet's Shi Davidi to discuss Kevin Gausman's tenure in Toronto, the acquisition of Jose Soriano and what's ahead for the Blue Jays at the 2026 MLB Trade Deadline. Afterwards, Davy Andrews (22:09) of FanGraphs discusses Luis Garcia Jr. heading to the Yankees and why the Nationals like their return. Cody Stavenhagen of the Athletic pops in to reflect on Tarik Skubal's time with the Tigers and other moves on the horizon for Detroit. Eric Longenhagen (50:04) of FanGraphs gives the lowdown on the two prospects the Blue Jays traded Kevin Gausman for in Ty Southisene and Brett Bateman. MLB Insider and Sportsnet Blue Jays Reporter Ben Nicholson-Smith (1:06:05) talks Toronto seemingly buying and selling at the deadline and who else could be moved before 6pm ET. Lastly, Craig Goldstein of Baseball Prospectus gives his take on Tarik Skubal joining the Dodgers and if LA is bad for baseball or simply lapping everyone. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In 1922, two New York teams make July trades that provoke a change in the way the game is played. Both were successful in their way, but how successful were they, really? And why did one of them involve a pitcher throwing up on Casey Stengel's floor and a future Hall of Fame third baseman possibly passing blood? And we stop in on Babe Ruth in his last days and contrast a life of actual experience with a life of artificial experience. Trigger Warning: There's a cussword at about 19:35. Hide the dog! The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
A 3-6 homestand against the Mets, Dodgers and Yankees is not what Phillies fans were hoping for coming out of the All Star Break. All the team's flaws were exposed. Is inconsistency in their DNA, or can they use the trade deadline to change their stripes? On the latest Hittin' Season podcast, powered by WHYY, John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher, editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal, discuss a big week ahead for the Phillies with the trade deadline just one week away!
Hall of Fame Cardinals manager Whitey Herzog gets stuck in the Yankees system—and the Army—leading to a discussion of social responsibility when it comes to risking the lives of citizen-soldiers (whether Herzog or Ted Williams in the Korean War years or something closer to the present day). Then we visit the win-or-go-home American League playoff game between the Red Sox and the Indians, a contest famously mishandled by Joe McCarthy, another future Hall of Famer. What went into his thinking that day, and are the legends of pitchers ducking the job true? With stops along the way at an eight-man rotation, the A's 1929 surprise starter, virus versus host, and so much more! The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out? Short vibraphone melody (loop) by xkeril
Trea Turner had one of the weirdest games of his career Monday night in the Phillies' 10-7 win over the Dodgers in Philadelphia. John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Justin Klugh from Baseball Prospectus and Liz Roscher, Editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal, break down the wacky first game of the Phils' three-game tilt with L.A. Then, they break down various Trade Deadline scenarios by playing a game of "Would You Rather?" featuring seven different options.
Two instructive tales of the Brooklyn Dodgers, who, as Casey Stengel said, were at that time in Brooklyn. The 26-inning man places a clever comeback among his last words, but not before pilfering some stocks that didn't belong to him, marrying the bosses daughter, and going broke, not necessarily in that order. Then a Deadball Era shortstop is spectacularly overrated compared to his betters, which included one of the best of all time, Honus Wagner. We also wing past one of the great forgotten offensive seasons in Cincinnati Reds history, revisit an oft-repeated Maya Angelou line, quote a key paragraph or two from Bleak House as it pertains to Charles Ebbets' estate, and so much more!The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
The Approach Angle Nate Schwartz (@_nateschwartz) and Kyle Bland (@blandalytics) discuss pitch tunnels and their impact on arsenal construction. The podcast starts by talking about what a pitch tunnel is and why it can be effective against all types of hitters (including Jordan Walker, who Nate has to give a mention to after the Home Run Derby win). They talk about how release points and movement can confuse a hitter in terms of pitch recognition and affect their decision window when it comes to making a swing. Then, they talk about all of the different ways that the public has attempted to quantify tunneling. The next segment discusses arsenal construction -- like what makes pitches good tunnel partners and how bridge pitches can be effective. Additionally, they talk about why it can be useful to have pitches that don't tunnel with one another. Finally, they close with players that have interesting tunnels & mixes: Davis Martin, Bryan Woo, Nolan McLean, and Paul Skenes. Articles mentioned: The Importance of Release Point Consistency, Daniel Schwartz; Introducing Pitch Tunnels, Baseball Prospectus; Quantifying Arsenal Effects: A New Paradigm in Pitching Models, Driveline Baseball; The Science of Pitch Tunneling, Maxwell Resnick; Introducing BP's New Arsenal Metrics, Stephen Sutton-Brown https://bit.ly/zenAI_bpp_pitcherlist Join Our Discord & Support The Show: PL+ | PL Pro - Get 15% off Yearly with code PODCASTProud member of the Pitcher List Fantasy Baseball Podcast Network Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Where are the Phillies as they enter the All Star break? Hosts John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher, Editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal hand out grades for the Phils' first half, and preview the All Star Game in Philadelphia this week, with Cristopher Sanchez starting, Zack Wheeler staying home, and Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber gearing up for Monday's Home Run Derby. Will a Phillie win in front of their home crowd?
We ask of various figures past and present (as Mark Twain once did) “Is He Alive or Is He Dead?” finishing with the time Babe Ruth was reported to have fatally crashed his car. Then we try to compare players across eras and find too many irreconcilable differences for comfort, and conclude with an Expos semi-great, the writer who seemingly inspired his parents, and the decline of reading. The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
With Bill still on the mend this week, we're happy to revisit the crazily still relevent story of how and why Arky Vaughn walked away from baseball for three years. Vaughan was one of the most underappreciated superstars in history until his reputation was restored by Bill James. His disappearance has always been linked with an attempted players' strike with the Dodgers in 1943 that occurred 83 years ago this week. But that's not the whole story, as Mike and Bill discovered in talking to Steven Goldman, of Baseball Prospectus and The Infinite Inning. Plus, happy birthday to Tim Teufel and Willie Wilson!
Zack Wheeler was robbed of a spot on the NL All Star roster thanks to a stupid rule that everyone now understands must be eliminated. But will that happen in time for his inclusion next week in Philadelphia? On Episode 1100 of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight breaks down the first two games of the Phils-Reds series with a starting lineup of 9 topics for discussion including: The hard-charging Marlins now tied with the Phillies in the NL East Don Mattingly tells ESPN he wants to return as manager in 2027! Jesus Luzardo DOES make the All Star team Tanner Banks and Jose Alvarado are leaving the Phils with no left-handed relief options Should the Phils focus on a 5th starter or reliever help at the trade deadline? Baseball America ranks the Phillies farm system 2nd-WORST in MLB Baserunning controversy in Tuesday night's victory with Elly de la Cruz' overrun of 2nd base Fun stats involving Derek Hill and Justin Crawford Buy Justin's NEW book, "Summer of the Cheap Weiners: What the 1941 Phillies Were Up To While Joe DiMaggio Was Making History" at Brookline Books! https://www.brooklinebooks.com/978195... Subscribe to the Hittin' Season podcast on Apple Podcasts here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Subscribe on Spotify here: https://open.spotify.com/show/6fMSJlk... Follow all WHYY podcasts here: https://whyy.org/radio-podcasts/ Follow John on X: https://x.com/JohnStolnis Follow John on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/johnstolnis.... Follow Liz on X: https://x.com/lizroscher Follow Liz on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lizroscher.b... Follow Justin on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/justinklugh.... Read John at The Good Phight: https://www.thegoodphight.com Read Justin at Baseball Prospectus: https://www.baseballprospectus.com/au.... Become a Member: https://whyy.org/membership.
Ryan is joined by Joe Lanza from The Flagship Wrestling Podcast to discuss the WON Hall of Fame case of KENTA.Listen to The Flagship wherever you get podcasts: http://theflagshippodcast.com/Order the “Baseball Prospectus 2026”: https://amzn.to/4foRc3yLeave a comment, question, or reaction at 9495-BALLOT or 949-522-5568.Subscribe to The Ballot wherever you get podcasts.LINK DUMP:All KENTA vs Marufuji Singles Matches: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EhZRr7VfZpg&t=5022sKENTA vs Low Ki: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9EsybuVctMKENTA vs Kanemaru: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jciyeUNLaS0KENTA vs SUWA: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5wHjdH-7fSsKENTA vs McGuiness: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SdsBa9_XzpYRyan's Data Archive:Noah Attendance 2000-2014:https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1tIYhEtpTU7EBQy5D2CgDvhW3-lNEcoy5cnApdhjGsHw/edit?usp=sharingCombined Wrestling Awards Chart: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1tI0FN6CzPkpZ4tlRIA6WMUixiFQpO1W18CuncIp1N6A/edit?usp=sharingWON HOF Results - 2025: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1zeZq4xg61b2pP-LYpHTRoJ8kYnWWG0gXfxfjz88imLA/edit?usp=sharingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Blake Murphy is joined by Blue Jays radio voice Ben Shulman to discuss the win against the Giants as Spencer Miles continued to eat innings and the bottom of the order stayed productive. Afterwards, Jays prospect JoJo Parker (28:25) joins to discuss competing against his brother, working his way up the Blue Jays' farm system, his hitting mentality, and more! Patrick Dubuque (50:25) of Baseball Prospectus talks about how Toronto should deploy Max Scherzer going forward, their playoff chances, and how modern baseballs are moving. Lastly, Blake catches up with former Blue Jay Tyler Heineman (01:13:35) to reflect on his time in Toronto, getting traded and the transition to the Angels organization. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
Cristopher Sanchez, the Phillies' ace, suffered the worst start of his career in a 15-1 loss to the Royals on Monday. Are the Phils running out of gas with the All Star Game just a week away? John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Liz Roscher of SABR's Baseball Research Journals and Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh recap a disappointing weekend in KC, discuss Trea Turner's future at shortstop, and analyze the All Star rosters, with five Phillies making the squad. Will Zack Wheeler find a way onto the team? keywords Phillies, MLB All-Star, Christopher Sanchez, Trey Turner, Kyle Schwarber, Brandon Marsh, baseball analysis, Phillies road series, All-Star game key topics Phillies' recent series performance and road struggles Impact of Christopher Sanchez's game on All-Star selection Defense issues with Trey Turner and positional changes Brandon Marsh's standout season and All-Star selection Kyle Schwarber's ejection and umpire interactions Team strategies heading into the All-Star break Player performance analysis and future outlook Rules and decisions affecting game outcomes takeaways Christopher Sanchez's poor outing may affect his All-Star start prospects. Trey Turner's defensive struggles are reaching a critical point. Brandon Marsh's season has been exceptional, earning him an All-Star spot. Kyle Schwarber's ejection was influenced by umpire frustration. The Phillies face a tough schedule on the road before the break. Player performances and team decisions will shape the trade deadline. Umpiring decisions and their impact on game flow and player relations. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Overview of Recent Games 02:37 David Beckham and Soccer Culture in America 05:45 Phillies' Disastrous Game Against the Royals 08:52 Christopher Sanchez's All-Star Game Chances 10:27 Trey Turner's Defensive Struggles 13:19 Future of Trey Turner and Team Dynamics 22:58 Analyzing the Game: Errors and Pitching Performance 29:25 Defensive Struggles: The Case of Trey Turner 34:55 Umpiring Decisions: The Ejection Controversy 40:17 All-Star Selections: Celebrating Phillies' Achievements
A July 4th episode: Lou Gehrig's farewell and slight return, Joe DiMaggio flashes back to the Iron Horse streak, the National League is founded in the Centennial year as things go very wrong for George Custer (couldn't have happened to a nicer guy), one of Sitting Bull's kids gets baseball fever, and a .400 hitter sickens and vanishes from history because of a sometimes-flexible “rule.” The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?Body Fall.Wooden Floor.Vinil Floor Covering x5_EM.mp3 by newlocknew
Blake Murphy is joined by Sportsnet's Joe Siddall to talk about the emotions behind Bo Bichette's return, Trey Yesavage's start and more. Afterwards, Bobby Wagner (26:11) of Tipping Pitches joins to discuss everything New York Mets. Carlos Pena (50:01) pops by to break down Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s swing and dives into the specifics of why he's struggling to get quality contact on baseballs. Lastly, Craig Goldstein (1:11:42) of Baseball Prospectus talks Kyle Tucker, the Dodgers and how they're being represented in labour negotiations and the Blue Jays. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.
A young Yogi Berra battles his own pitching staff just as Dalton Rushing struggles to call pitches for Shohei Ohtani, Casey Stengel drags Yogi into the Joe McCarthy mess in Washington, Lefty Grove throws at a catcher and Dorothy Thompson tries to help war refugees. And John McGraw thought tennis-playing pitchers were effeminate? All that and more in this week's episode! The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out? Ambient battle noise: swords and shouting by pfranzen; Epic Cinematic Music: Let's Go to Zanzibar by lena_orsa
Blake Murphy is joined by David Singh of Sportsnet to diagnose why Kevin Gausman has struggled over his past two starts and John Schneider's postgame comments on Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Afterwards, Kennedi Landry (30:03) of MLB.com pops by to talk Corey Seager, Mackenzie Gore, and the Texas Rangers. Bradley Woodrum (49:55) of Baseball Prospectus talks about the state of stolen bases, working counts as a hitter and the pope watching the Chicago White Sox. Lastly, 2018 MLB All-Star Jed Lowrie (1:15:02) joins to break down why he thinks Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is trying to do too much and Kazuma Okamoto's season thus far. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.
The San Francisco Giants' botched attempt at Pride Night prompts a look at Billy Sunday, the Cubs outfielder who had a religious awakening and became one of the most popular traveling evangelists of the early 20th century. Plus pitchers named Head, an ERA of 6.66, a no-hitter pitched with the wrong arm, and a young woman whose name baseball shouldn't have forgotten. The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
Dan Epstein of Baseball Prospectus joined Chrystal to talk about all things Yankees. Dan talked about the ever-present injury bug in the Bronx, the offseason, and how confident he is about the Yankee's playoff chances. The two also spent a lot of time talking about how pitchers are the coolest, and how our old friend Carlos Rodón has changed since his time on the South Side. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If Jacob Misiorowski wanted to make a statement against the Phillies over the weekend, he made it, cementing himself as the front-runner for NL Cy Young Award and All Star Game starter. Cristopher Sanchez, well, not so much this time. On the latest Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight and Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh discuss the contrasting performances from the two stars, addressed the Phillies' outfield situation, and the continuing slump of shortstop Trea Turner.
Trigger Warning: Discussions of self-harm. A Reds pitcher confuses the end of his arm for the end of his life, several other players take the easy way out, a bizarre trade is deconstructed, the Marlins compared to the Browns and a certain IPO, and much more. The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out? (Neighing horse.wav by soundslikewillem, snorting horse.wav by soundslikewillem, pistol_riccochet.ogg by Diboz)
The Philadelphia Phillies 2026 season has been filled with great moments thus far, but has also left question marks as to how the team might perform down the stretch and latter part of the season. Justin Klugh from Baseball Prospectus and the Hittin' Season podcast joined us for a fun and in-depth conversation about the direction of this team here in 2026.But first, Jeff and Len gave their top-3 list of biggest surprises here in 2026 in the world of Philly sports. (Approx. 3:25)From there, they discussed the message sent by the Sixers new front office hire, Mike Gansey, about how this team will be built in the future. (Approx. 15:10)The guys then got into some Phillies talk, specifically what the future of Andrew Painter might be, and how Phillies fans need to be patient with his development. (Approx. 22:40)The guys also got into their “Hate To See It, Love To See It” segment where some issues with the World Cup were discussed at length! (Approx. 29:40)What they threw down on the Table this week was a great and in-depth discussion with Justin Klugh from Baseball Prospectus and the Hittin' Season podcast about the direction the Phillies are heading. How does sports psychology and managing a team go hand-in-hand? Bryce Harper and the leader he is in the clubhouse. What has been the biggest surprise and disappointment of the season? All of this and much more this week on the Table! (Approx. 40:45)SUBSCRIBE on YouTube: youtube.com/@thephiladelphiasportstableHead over to our website for all of our podcasts and more: philadelphiasportstable.comFollow us on Threads: @philadelphiasportstableFollow us on Twitter/X: @PhiladelphiaPSTFollow us on Instagram: @philadelphiasportstable.Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/PhiladelphiaSportsTable
Don't look now, but Brandon Marsh is suddenly one of the best hitting outfielders in baseball. But will there be a spot for him in the outfield in the All Star Game in Philadelphia next month? Hosts John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Justin Klugh from Baseball Prospectus and Liz Roscher of SABR's Baseball Research Journal discuss the All Star case for 6 key Phillies, Andrew Painter's future, and the offense's middle class finally starting to produce.
A shorter episode about bad timing as exemplified by the time that Hall of Fame manager Casey Stengel was run over by a car. The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
Through 59 games, the Phillies are sporting their lowest batting average in franchise history and their 5th-lowest on-base percentage. How low can they go? Will it get better? On Episode 1085 of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher, editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal, discuss why the Phils' recent 4-2 west coast road trip to San Diego and Los Angeles felt less than great. Also, as Nick Castellanos makes his return to Philly for the first time this week, what level of booing should he expect?
A shorter episode that takes a quick look at the Homestead Grays and the attenuated career of the late Bob Horner. The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
A grab-bag episode in which the title says it all: The 40th anniversary of the 1986 Mets, how failed Yankees shortstop Bobby Meacham would have performed if Baseball-Reference had his name correctly, the possibility of women playing major league baseball, Thurman Munson's Hall of Fame twin discussed, and a certain overweight catcher suffers a breakdown of impulse control. The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
Infinite Inning 375: The A's, Murder in Camden, and the Spiders from Cleveland Several attempts at finding empathy through self-denial this week: We ask if it's right to laugh at the players trapped by vile ownership into performing like abused seals for the 1899 Cleveland Spiders, if restraining ourselves from saying everything we're allowed to say is the at all similar to protecting a pitcher's arm, observe several long losing streaks, and note a 1943 murder carried out in the delusional name of love, a crisis of perspective and morality to which Connie Mack inadvertently provided an answer. The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
We go back to the early days of the Angels (California, Los Angels, Anaheim, or anywhere in-between) for the untimely death of a pitcher, then look forward to next year, when one of the most famous and consequential baseball teams of all time will mark its 100th anniversary. What will Major League Baseball or the Yankees do about it? Why is it the first such team to merit such an occasion? And how do you mark the occasion when members started dying off right after the championship was won? Also: A big day for Ty Cobb and a less salubrious 1920s “achievement” is observed. The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
Two managers dropped this week, but four teams haven't fired a manager in-season since the last century. Which were they, and is there even a point? Then we travel back to 1887, the ill-fated marriage between a Hall of Famer and an actress, her personal gift to baseball, and the birth of a character type whose time has come again (no matter what anyone says). The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
A major metropolitan newspaper contends a pitcher “blows,” while he insists he is in “the best shape of his life.” Which would prove to be closer to the truth? Then we revisit the birth of the atomic bomb, the Yankees' decision to start a farm system in spite of their wealth, and the mysterious woman whose very existence might have hinted at undisclosed cash-flow problems on the part of a very wealthy man.The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
We note the recent passing of some stalwart ballplayers, some of all too recent a vintage, then travel back to the 1950s and the breaking of the Braves color line by an outfielder who everyone liked to pick on. The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
In which we track the posthumous career of one of baseball's earliest players, who might simultaneously lie in three different places or maybe nowhere at all. Then we wish Parker Meadows a quick recovery by recalling an earlier outfield collision which injured two future Hall of Famers. And in between some wisdom from Cato the Elder, Robert Pirsig, and others.The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
Infinite Inning 369: An Odd Cardinals Walk-Off or a Typical Cubs Loss?First we ask an evergreen question prompted by Konnor Griffin's promotion: Were Casey Stengel's expectations of Mickey Mantle unfair? Then we visit 1949 for one of the more unusual walk-off hits in Cardinals history and the popular player whose momentary lack of awareness allowed it to happen—and find ourselves questioning the way we live. The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
Two players who might have made the Hall of Fame if not for time missed to national service during World War II stand in for all of those whose trajectories were deflected by the games played by those in high places, then we visit turn-of-the-20th century Philadelphia for a forgotten first baseman who won it all and lost something even greater at the same moment. The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
In which we talk about some of our own broken relationships, the war of Billy Martin's ear and what George Steinbrenner's plan to bring him back for a sixth tour says about his own morality, the way the Washington Senators loved their own players so much they ended up in Minnesota, very small dinosaurs, and so much more. The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
What will Bryce Harper's batting average be with runners in scoring position? How many home runs will Kyle Schwarber hit? How low will Aaron Nola's ERA be? On Episode 1052 of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight sets the line on the most important numbers for the most important Phillies in 2026, as Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh and SABR's Liz Roscher try to decide if the number is too high or too low. Also, a Phils World Baseball Classic update. Are you concerned about Harper's struggles? Encouraged by Schwarber's start? Subscribe to the Hittin' Season podcast on Apple Podcasts here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Subscribe on Spotify here: https://open.spotify.com/show/6fMSJlk... Follow all WHYY podcasts here: https://whyy.org/radio-podcasts/ Follow John on X: https://x.com/JohnStolnis Follow John on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/johnstolnis.... Follow Liz on X: https://x.com/lizroscher Follow Liz on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lizroscher.b... Follow Justin on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/justinklugh.... Read John at The Good Phight: https://www.thegoodphight.com Read Justin at Baseball Prospectus: https://www.baseballprospectus.com/au.... Become a Member: https://whyy.org/membership. Buy Justin's NEW book, "Summer of the Cheap Weiners: What the 1941 Phillies Were Up To While Joe DiMaggio Was Making History" at Brookline Books! https://www.brooklinebooks.com/978195...
A pitcher named Bob becomes Sailor Bob all because his wife wanted him out of the house in a fatal way, then we revisit the 1880s and a truly ridiculous ballpark that led to a player having both an inflated home-run total and an inflated liver.The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. America's brighter mirror, baseball reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman shares his obsessions: history from inside and outside of the game, politics, stats, and Casey Stengel quotations. Along the way, we'll try to solve the puzzle that is the Infinite Inning: How do you find the joy in life when you can't get anybody out?
Bryce Harper is leaving the Phillies... along with Kyle Schwarber and reliever Brad Keller to begin play for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic starting this week! Will a big Harper WBC performance be a springboard for an All Star 2026 season? As for the players still in Clearwater, there are a number of things to feel really good about right now, including hot starts from uber prospects Andrew Painter and Justin Crawford, and veterans Bryson Stott and Cristopher Sanchez. On Episode 1048 of Hittin' Season, hosts John Stolnis, Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher discuss all that and much more, powered by WHYY! Subscribe on Spotify here: https://open.spotify.com/show/6fMSJlk... Follow all WHYY podcasts here: https://whyy.org/radio-podcasts/ Read John at The Good Phight: https://www.thegoodphight.com Read Justin at Baseball Prospectus: https://www.baseballprospectus.com/au.... Become a Member: https://whyy.org/membership. Buy Justin's NEW book, "Summer of the Cheap Weiners: What the 1941 Phillies Were Up To While Joe DiMaggio Was Making History" at Brookline Books! https://www.brooklinebooks.com/978195...
Chris Towers is joined by Matt Trueblood (@matrueblood.bsky.social), writer for Baseball Prospectus and Brewers Fanatic! Do we buy what Brice Turang did in 2025? People are sleeping on Chad Patrick! Subscribe to our YouTube channel: youtube.com/FantasyBaseballToday Download and Follow Fantasy Baseball Today on Spotify: https://sptfy.com/QiKv Follow our FBT team on Twitter: @FBTPod, @CPTowers @CBSScottWhite, @Roto_Frank Join our Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/fantasybaseballtoday Sign up for the FBT Newsletter at https://www.cbssports.com/newsletters/fantasy-baseball-today/ For more fantasy baseball coverage from CBS Sports, visit https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/baseball/ To hear more from the CBS Sports Podcast Network, visit https://www.cbssports.com/podcasts/ To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices