Podcasts about Baseball Prospectus

On Episode 994 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, John Stolnis of SB Nation's The Good Phight, Justin Klugh from Baseball Prospectus and SABR's Liz Roscher discuss the Phillies' series win over Detroit and their Monday night 13-3 blowout of the Baltimore Orioles, highlighting key players like Kyle Schwarber and Christopher Sanchez. They delve into the MVP candidacy of Schwarber, compare his stats with Shohei Ohtani, and analyze the outfield situation, particularly the struggles of Max Kepler. The conversation also touches on Zack Wheeler's recent performance and injury updates for the Phils. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Game Overview 02:46 - Phillies' Performance and Player Highlights 05:27 - Kyle Schwarber's MVP Candidacy 08:37 - Comparing Stats: Schwarber vs. Ohtani 11:34 - Contract Talks and Future Considerations 14:30 - Outfield Dynamics and Player Decisions 21:09 - Max Kepler's Struggles and Stats 23:31 - Outfield Decisions and Roster Moves 25:56 - Power Surge: Phillies' Offense in the Second Half 29:29 - The Importance of Comeback Wins 33:42 - The Jhoan Duran Effect: A New Closer's Impact 39:26 - Christopher Sanchez: Rising Star in the Rotation 47:13 - Concerns About Zach Wheeler 54:28 - Injury Updates and Final Thoughts

In this week's new remarks, a sentimental farewell to the great Ryne Sandberg, the traffic en route to Citi Field and the world outside our windows, and a lesson from position players pitching. Then in our flashback segment, the entertaining but ill-fated Pea Ridge Day and the oddly parallel fates of a 1920s movie star and a New York Giants center fielder. The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. Baseball, America's brighter mirror, often reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman discusses the game's present, past, and future with forays outside the foul lines to the culture at large. Expect history, politics, stats, and frequent 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 Murphy and Julia Kreuz recap a wild Tuesday including two losses, Chad Green getting DFA'd, Seranthony Dominguez's crazy day and what he adds to the Blue Jays. MLB InsiderJim Bowden (30:05) discusses the addition of Dominguez, the starter and reliever pitching market and how active he's expecting the deadline to be. Craig Goldstein (50:00) of Baseball Prospectus gives his thought on Dominguez's playoff track record and what moves the Los Angeles Dodgers might make. Lastly, Blake and Julia take your texts (1:19:30) on players who could become Blue Jays before 6pm on Thursday and how concerning the 4-game losing streak is.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.

On Episode 991 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, the Good Phight's John Stolnis, Justin Klugh of Baseball Prospectus and editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal Liz Roscher offer their predictions on what Dave Dombrowski will do at the Trade Deadline this Thursday. Relievers? Bats? Both? Neither? Also, Bryce Harper goes nose-to-nose with Rob Manfred in a heated clubhouse meeting over a potential salary cap, and we recap a mostly good series in the Bronx and a bad start to their series in Chicago Monday night. Takeaways The Phillies are struggling to maintain consistent performance, especially against weaker teams. JT Real Muto's resurgence has significantly improved the Phillies' lineup. The trade deadline is approaching, and the Phillies need to prioritize bullpen help. Bryce Harper's vocal stance against a salary cap highlights player concerns about management's intentions. The dynamics between players and management are tense, especially with Rob Manfred's recent actions. The potential trade market is thinning, making it harder for the Phillies to acquire top talent. Players are increasingly aware of the economic challenges facing baseball and are willing to fight for their rights. The role of former players in management can complicate relationships with current players. The Phillies' management must balance short-term needs with long-term player development. The upcoming trade deadline could significantly impact the team's playoff chances. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Overview of the Phillies' Current Situation 04:47 - Trade Deadline Insights and Player Performance 09:49 - The Impact of Key Players on the Phillies' Lineup 14:53 - Analyzing the Phillies' Trade Needs and Strategies 19:47 - Recent Trade Rumors and Market Dynamics 24:48 - Injury Updates and Their Implications for Trades 29:30 - Final Thoughts on the Trade Deadline and Team Prospects 36:17 - Bryce Harper vs. Rob Manfred: Tensions Rise 42:29 - The Impact of Former Players on Current Negotiations Keywords Phillies, trade deadline, Rob Manfred, Bryce Harper, JT Real Muto, MLB, baseball, player performance, labor issues, team dynamics

In a Yankees-centric episode for deadline week, we revisit a rare homegrown Yankees third baseman at a moment he refused to sit down even as injuries ate him alive. Then we take another look at the Buhner-Phelps deal. The Yankees could hardly have done worse... But could they truly have done better? 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? 

Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher discuss the "passionate, productive" conversation reported between the Phillies and MLB commissioner Rob Manfred, as well as their Jesus Luzardo concerns. Then, Tim Jackson of Baseball Prospectus talks about Phillies trade deadline scenarios and Andrew Mearns of Pinstripe Alley tells us what to expect from the Yankees this weekend.

The recent tragic flooding in Texas causes us to revisit the passing of one of baseball's greatest and strangest southpaws and, in this week's new remarks, wonder just when it is that anyone actually learns anything, and then how long will it be until they forget it again? The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. Baseball, America's brighter mirror, often reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman discusses the game's present, past, and future with forays outside the foul lines to the culture at large. Expect history, politics, stats, and frequent 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? Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

In this episode of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight and Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh discuss the signing of David Robertson, the state of the Phillies' bullpen, Bryce Harper's offensive surge and Monday's night's bizarre walk-off victory. They also dive into a trade deadline draft, evaluating potential players the Phillies could acquire to strengthen their roster. Also, why hasn't Justin Crawford been called up yet? Takeaways: David Robertson returns to the Phillies for a third time. The Phillies' bullpen struggles with a 430 ERA. Recent game highlights include a walk-off win against the Red Sox. The trade deadline is approaching, and the Phillies need to make moves. Players like Eugenio Suarez and Mason Miller are potential targets. Bryce Harper is showing signs of a strong second half. The team is looking for a dynamic leadoff hitter. Justin Crawford could be an internal solution for the outfield. The importance of strong starting pitching for the Phillies' success. The need for a consistent offensive performance from the team. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Overview of the Phillies' Season 02:29 - David Robertson's Signing and Its Implications 05:24 - Evaluating the Bullpen and Future Moves 08:29 - Game Highlights: Walk-off Win Against the Red Sox 11:20 - Bryce Harper's Performance and Impact 14:33 - Looking Ahead: The Phillies' Playoff Contention 22:25 - Phillies' Offensive Needs and Player Injuries 24:14 - Concerns About Starting Pitchers Jesus Luzardo & Ranger Suarez 26:26 - Upcoming Challenges Against the Yankees 28:31 - Highlight Moments: Kyle Schwarber's Grand Slam 29:52 - Assessing the Phillies' Performance and Consistency 32:03 - Trade Deadline Player Draft! 01:05:46 - Final Thoughts

The Atlanta Braves unfortunately picked up right where they left off, opening the second half with a disappointing series loss to the New York Yankees. Grant McAuley sizes up where the Braves find themselves after stumbling to start the second half, the unusual place the club finds itself in as the trade deadline approaches, some signs of life for a pair of struggling players, the impressive right arm of Ronald Acuña Jr., strong hitting from the Atlanta catching duo leading to a lineup change and much more. Special guest Gaurav Vedak of Baseball Prospectus joins the show to recap the MLB Draft for the Braves, who strayed from their usual strategy of loading up on pitchers and instead focused on some impressive position player selections. That plus a look at the effect this class could have on the Braves minor league system. From The Diamond airs live on 92-9 The Game in Atlanta on Sundays throughout baseball season. You can also subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Every episode of the show and more great Braves coverage is available at FromTheDiamond.com.

We revisit one of the greatest baseball trade deadline deals. Hint: It came on June 15, 1964, and then visit early 20th century Los Angeles and take a look at a neglected corner of baseball history, starting with Joe DiMaggio's father in Sicily, journeying to Japan, and wrapping up in Texas with a player called “Goo-Goo.” And don't forget “Sore” Feets!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? 

On Episode 985 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Justin Klugh from Baseball Prospectus and Liz Roscher, Editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal, review the first half of the Phillies' 2025 season and wonder, how are the Phillies in first place? Also, John, Justin and Liz dive into a trivia challenge centered around the Philadelphia Phillies and their All-Star Game history, flowing through various milestones, memorable moments, and anecdotes from past All-Star Game. 00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Phillies' Season 02:40 Home Run Derby Highlights and Player Performances 05:28 Phillies' First Half Performance and Team Dynamics 08:42 Strengths and Weaknesses of the Phillies' Roster 11:37 Reflections on the First Half and Comparisons to Other Teams 14:46 Grading the Players: Starting Pitching and Offense 17:37 Bryce Harper's Impact and Expectations 20:33 Assessing the Bullpen and Overall Team Performance 23:30 Final Thoughts and All-Star Trivia 40:11 Trade Deadline Predictions 42:39 All-Star Game Trivia Fun 53:38 Milestones and Memorable Moments 59:16 All-Star Game Trivia Begins 01:02:18 Milestones and Historical Context 01:05:07 The Evolution of the Vet Stadium 01:07:43 Home Run Derby Highlights 01:11:31 Memorable All-Star Moments 01:15:17 Final Trivia Challenge and Wrap-Up

The baseball content in Action Comics no. 1 has a bad effect on those who appeared, particularly the Yankees, the new Superman film, the nature of the character, and Superman vs. the gamblers in a 1939 issue with a Casey Stengel (Braves) and Ducky Medwick (Cardinals) appearance. Then we revisit a statement of values (the opposite of “Nazi” is “baseball”) and dip into Baseball's Brief Lives to review the career of player, coach, and manager Billy Hunter, who passed away last week at the age of 97. 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? 

Patrick joined Chrystal again to briefly discuss what's going on with the Guardians and help break down the series. Here is what they talked about: What's new with the Guardians A bad stretch and mounting frustrations Pitching has not been an issue Trade rumors Rating the offseason and trade deadline hopes Can the Guardians catch up to the Tigers, or are they destined to try for a Wild Card spot this season? Running out of room for improvement How Pat feels about the season All-Star picks What to expect from Guardians pitchers What the bullpen lacks Biggest threat to the White Sox Keys to winning the series Fears heading into the series Pitchers are starting to go longer The ASG in Atlanta You can find Patrick Ellington Jr. in many places! You can follow him on Bluesky and/or Twitter. I would also recommend reading his work on Substack. You can also read his work on Baseball Prospectus and SABR. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In new remarks for this week's baseball, history, and politics reissue, we discuss the Infinite Inning creed and ask what it is we can infer about whole groups if Johnny Bench was a better player than Johnny Roseboro or Lou Gehrig more of a slugger than Vic Power? (Hint: not a damned thing). Then we return to stories of Paul Waner's 3000th hit and Ty Cobb's racism and how it intersected with American attitudes during his formative years.    The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. Baseball, America's brighter mirror, often reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman discusses the game's present, past, and future with forays outside the foul lines to the culture at large. Expect history, politics, stats, and frequent 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? 

On Episode 982 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, the Good Phight's John Stolnis, Justin Klugh of Baseball Prospectus and Liz Roscher from SABR's Baseball Research Journal discuss the historic pitching performance of Zack Wheeler and why the Phillies cannot waste his performance, and the starting rotation, by being passive at the trade deadline. Also, thoughts on All Stars Wheeler and Kyle Schwarber, snubs, and concerns over Bryce Harper's wrist continue.

For episode 55 of Staffcast, Tom and Richard are joined by Baseball Prospectus' Craig Goldstein to talk about Casey McGehee's six BRef photos, why Craig has 1,000 names, Drew Carey in the Sims 1, what goes into an All Star vote, Clayton Kershaw's DEI accomplishment, throwing pies, regional accents, meeting Mad Dog Russo, #SheGone, Trot Nixon's son Chase, 2000s Twin or Congressman Who Died Between 1950 and 2000, Ken Harvey repeatedly getting horribly hurt, and more!Subscribe to Baseball Prospectus...NOW. Watch these videos of Ken Harvey!Ken Harvey vs. TarpKen Harvey vs. Bengie MolinaKen Harvey vs. Jason Grimsley's faceKen Harvey vs. Matt Stairs' throw homeFollow your incredibly cool hosts and guest:Craig Goldstein⁠⁠⁠⁠Sean Doolittle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trevor Hildenberger⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Richard Staff⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tom Hackimer⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Episode art by Abigail Noy (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠sympatheticinker.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠)Edited by Italian Dave (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠twitter.com/theitaliandave⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠)Intro: The Horrific Sounds That Bounce Around My Head Because The Record Labels Threatened To Kill Me

What does it look like when leadership is rooted not in control, but in care? In this episode of The Ultimate Coach Podcast, host Ipek Williamson is joined by Ken Crenshaw, a deeply respected high-performance leader in Major League Baseball whose impact goes far beyond physical training. Ken shares how his leadership journey was shaped by mentors, faith, and a profound calling to serve. His perspective on culture, commitment, and connection is both refreshing and transformational, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the inner workings of someone who leads elite teams through presence, humility, and love.From discovering the power of being through his work with Steve Hardison to cultivating environments where people feel safe to grow, Ken reveals how servant leadership becomes a way of life. He talks about how asking meaningful questions, truly listening, and staying grounded during high-stakes moments are all expressions of leadership that prioritize people over performance. Whether you're a coach, a parent, a leader, or someone simply seeking to show up more fully, this conversation will stay with you. It's a reminder that the way we lead starts with who we are willing to be.About the Guest: Ken Crenshaw is the Director of Sports Medicine and Performance for the Arizona Diamondbacks, currently in his 21st season with the organization and his eighth in this leadership role. Prior to this, he served as the team's head athletic trainer for 13 seasons, bringing a wealth of experience and innovation to the field of athlete care and performance. Before joining the D-backs, Ken spent a decade with the Tampa Bay Rays, holding multiple roles from Minor League medical and strength and conditioning coordinator to Major League head athletic trainer. Under his leadership, the Rays' medical staff was recognized as the 2005 Major League Training Staff of the Year by the Professional Baseball Athletic Trainers Society (PBATS) and as the 2004 Medical Staff of the Year by Baseball Prospectus.Ken's professional journey also includes serving as the strength and conditioning coordinator for the Atlanta Braves from 1992 to 1995, and as an athletic trainer within the Pittsburgh Pirates organization from 1989 to 1991. He earned his degree in sports medicine from New Mexico State University and holds certifications from both the National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA) and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). Ken and his wife, Robyn, are proud parents of three sons: Wacy, Wyatt, and Dustin.About the Host: A beacon of change and a catalyst for transformation, Ipek Williamson is a multifaceted professional who seamlessly integrates two decades of corporate expertise with a diverse skill set as a coach, mentor, speaker, author, meditation advocate, and teacher. Her mission is to guide individuals through the complexities of modern life, helping them find deep peace and harmony. Ipek's coaching approach, rooted in Core Values, Mental Fitness, and Mind Mastery, empowers clients to unlock their hidden potential and confidently embrace change with joy.Beyond coaching, Ipek's influence spreads through her 100+ meditations on the Insight Timer App and live meditation sessions, where she shares transformative wisdom. Her impact extends to workshops, courses, and training sessions for individuals, groups, and corporations. As a Change Champion, Ipek Williamson is dedicated to promoting positive change, nurturing inner calm, and empowering others to script their own transformation stories.ipek@ipekwilliamsoncoaching.comhttps://linktr.ee/IpekWilliamson

In new remarks for this week's baseball, history, and politics reissue, we apply Lou Reed's classic 1989 album New York to this week's events in Washington and elsewhere, a discussion which also affords us a momentary visit to that year's Yankees trying to make some absurd trades (and the Mets actually consummating one of the worst). The flashback segment revisits Hack Wilson's trip into the stands to thrash a misbehaving milkman and the much-neglected founders of the Giants franchise, among other discarded laborers. The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. Baseball, America's brighter mirror, often reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman discusses the game's present, past, and future with forays outside the foul lines to the culture at large. Expect history, politics, stats, and frequent 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 337: Yankees and Cubs Have Wants and Desires Babe Ruth asks for a small favor from Yankees owner Jacob Ruppert—well, 100,000 small favors—and is rebuked in the papers, suggesting a modern problem is actually an old one as well. Then a Cubs great goes to California and finds that prohibition is no impediment to his drinking, a tale which leads to stories of another drinker and a murderer who shared his last name.  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?  Mysterious Dramatic Music by tyops License: Attribution 4.0

In new remarks for this week's baseball, history, and politics reissue, we consider the heat dome hovering over half the country and wonder what it means for baseball. Then we revisit the offensively potent but frequently discarded outfielder Roy Cullenbine and take a visit to interwar Washington for a mostly non-baseball story of political corruption. The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. Baseball, America's brighter mirror, often reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman discusses the game's present, past, and future with forays outside the foul lines to the culture at large. Expect history, politics, stats, and frequent 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? 

On Episode 976 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Justin Klugh from Baseball Prospectus and SABR's Editor of the Baseball Research Journal, Liz Roscher, recap the Phillies' emphatic series win over the Mets this weekend. Is this now officially a two-team race in the NL East? Did the Phils make a statement with their two blowout wins? Also, John, Justin and Liz talk about which Phillies are deserving of an All Star nod.

Emotional trades happen, and the Cardinals—anticipating the exile of Rafael Devers from Boston—made one with a future Hall of Famer (who eventually wound up in Boston). Then a Cardinals pitcher is kidnapped—or was he?—and the host questions whether he once witnessed an example of the same on the mean streets of New Jersey.  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 new remarks for this week's baseball, history, and politics reissue, notes from the 1500s on kings and princes vs. the mob and what that might tell us about the Rafael Devers trade. Then we revisit two acts of resistance: Tom Seaver and John Lennon have an indirect team-up to remind us of our own power, and the wrong president shows up at the World Series.The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. Baseball, America's brighter mirror, often reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman discusses the game's present, past, and future with forays outside the foul lines to the culture at large. Expect history, politics, stats, and frequent 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? 

On Episode 973 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY in Philadelphia, The Good Phight's John Stolnis, Justin Klugh of Baseball Prospectus and Liz Roscher from SABR's Baseball Research Journal react to the Phillies' sudden winning streak after Monday's 5-2 win over the Marlins. Pitching heroes, bats that are now hot and Orion Kerkering the new closer? Plus, a spirited debate over AI in baseball and the Rafael Devers trade!

A 1980s designated hitter is traded to the National League, a fish-needs-a-bicycle baseball moment reminiscent of recent US diplomacy, and a 20-game winner who pitched as Theodore Roosevelt charged up San Juan Hill throws it all away in favor of good diction. 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 new remarks for this week's baseball and history reprise, we argue about bunts, kites, and kings—why would anyone wish for any of them? Kites are okay, of course, but the other two are problematic. We then revisit the Brooklyn Dodgers with Jackie Robinson asked to comment on a fallen Hall of Famer who had once been his teammate, then jump back to the days before World War II, when the America First Committee wanted to take over a baseball stadium for one of their isolationist/anti-Semitic rallies. The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. Baseball, America's brighter mirror, often reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman discusses the game's present, past, and future with forays outside the foul lines to the culture at large. Expect history, politics, stats, and frequent 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? 

There are very few general managers in the Hall of Fame, but that doesn't mean your local team executive doesn't know what he's doing—it's just that there are only so many obvious choices to make in any baseball season whether your name sounds something like “Ranch Bickey” or “Cryin' Rashman.” Then, following a quick stop with Babe Ruth and a close-mouthed Lou Gehrig, we visit Cleveland Indians camp in 1938 for a manager who was too insensitive to handle a troubled catcher—and his drawer full of shirts. 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 early February 2021 it seemed as if the danger of internally-inflicted fascism might be over, and so we looked at an occasion when Lou Gehrig was confronted with the same kind of movement and had a visceral reaction. Plus a lighter tale of a semi-pro pitcher who injured himself in an unusual way. We also revisit some of Twins executive Kevin Goldstein's comments on the Colorado Rockies from this episode. In this episode's new introduction: The naivety of some of this episode's comments about the dangers of Trumpism and a close encounter with 1000-game reliever LaTroy Hawkins. The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. Baseball, America's brighter mirror, often reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman discusses the game's present, past, and future with forays outside the foul lines to the culture at large. Expect history, politics, stats, and frequent 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 take another trip around a past sun with the Brooklyn Dodgers, wondering about the origins of Uncle Robbie's pronounced facial scar and then question a couple of old stories involving his lack of education: Were umpires really policing his spelling? Then, after a brief pause to ponder the nature of unrequited love, we rejoin the pennant-winning 1941 Dodgers for a future Hall of Fame shortstop with the yips and the unfairly derided first baseman who tried to calm him. 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 return to the program's first year for two of our more fun baseball profiles, both featuring Brooklyn Dodgers—one from the 19th century, one from the 1940s, and both a little uncomfortable. In a new introduction, we explore different modes of parenting and a form of relationship for which we lack the right word. The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. Baseball, America's brighter mirror, often reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman discusses the game's present, past, and future with forays outside the foul lines to the culture at large. Expect history, politics, stats, and frequent 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? 

On Episode 966 of Hittin' Season, John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Liz Roscher, Editor of SABR's Baseball Research Journal and Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh gather together to discuss the many high points of the Phillies' 6-1 road trip. How much does it matter the level of competition wasn't great? Also, they preview this week's series against the Braves in Philly. Is Atlanta any good?

Infinite Inning 332: Women at the Park and Dictators in the Dugout The Chicago Cubs push hard on Ladies Day promotions, but a few object claiming that women don't know the game of baseball Then baseball managers as autocrats compared to the real thing, and why confusing one for the other is a very dangerous idea, featuring Ossie Vitt and the Crybaby Cleveland team, Stengel vs. Spahn, McGraw vs. Groh, Buchanan vs. emancipation, and everyone vs. “virtue signaling.” 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? 

Before we revisit episode 13 and it's discussion of the O'Connell-Dolan scandal, starring a player and a coach lately sprung off the banned list by Rob Manfred, we have a new introduction discussing Joe Biden's cancer diagnosis, the death of Franklin Roosevelt, Derek Jeter's refusal to move off of shortstop, and we give one more encore to the most perceptive thing Grantland Rice every wrote.The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. Baseball, America's brighter mirror, often reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman discusses the game's present, past, and future with forays outside the foul lines to the culture at large. Expect history, politics, stats, and frequent 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? 

On Episode 963 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY in Philadelphia, John Stolnis from The Good Phight, SABR's Liz Roscher and Justin Klugh of Baseball Prospectus talk about Mick Abel's eye-opening MLB debut against the Pirates Sunday, and Jose Alvarado's shocking 80-game PED suspension that bars him from the 2025 postseason. Oh, and the Phils swept the Pirates, too.

The secret to managers' success is revealed and dispensed with, in a hypothetical version of 1976, George Steinbrenner gifts Reggie Jackson with a plane, Hal Chase isn't off the list because he was never on the list, a pre-Orioles pitcher becomes ill indeed, and baserunners are obstructed in 1928 and 2025, with differing outcomes suggesting the ways baseball can be like a sloppily-written document. (Snare Drum Buzz Roll, then Tada by TheRandomSoundByte2637)The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. Baseball, America's brighter mirror, often reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman discusses the game's present, past, and future with forays outside the foul lines to the culture at large. Expect history, politics, stats, and frequent 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 this return to one of this baseball podcast's earliest episodes, we discover two utility infielders, the Yankees' Wayne Tolleson and, well, nobody's Snooks Dowd (he was a Tigers, A's, and Dodgers reject) who weren't where they were supposed to be—or maybe they were exactly where they were supposed to be, but those in authority had a different opinion. This episode features a new introduction reflecting on how these lost players relate to some of the displaced people of our own times.The Infinite Inning is a journey to the past to understand the present using baseball as our time machine. Baseball, America's brighter mirror, often reflects, anticipates, and even mocks the stories we tell ourselves about our world today. Baseball Prospectus's Steven Goldman discusses the game's present, past, and future with forays outside the foul lines to the culture at large. Expect history, politics, stats, and frequent 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? 

Tom is joined by Matt Trueblood of Northside Baseball and Baseball Prospectus.Matt gives us his first impressions of Cade Horton. They break down the challenge of adding a front-line starter. Wonder if adding a "guy" in the pen for Craig Counsell to trust is the move. Discuss Ben Brown's best role.

On Episode 960 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY, John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Liz Roscher of the Baseball Research Journal and Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh hand out grades for different areas of the Phillies through the first quarter of the season, talk about the incredible run by the starting rotation, an improving offense and bullpen, the worst Phils seasons of their lifetimes, and whether Boston star Rafael Devers is right in telling the Red Sox he refuses to change positions again.

In Episode 458, Patrick, Jeffrey, and Craig submit this podcast for your consideration and then discuss five mostly baseball topics.1. Who Wants to Walk With Elias: The Orioles continue to sputter. Is there anyway out of this hole, or is it time to be deadline sellers?2. Sorry We Missed You: Philadelphia Phillies: The Phillies are the exact same team having the exact same season.3. Around the Horn: Leody finds a new home (not the Vatican), and the usual injury round up.4. What to Watch: Division leaders in interesting series and the one for you processheads.5. Baseball Prospectus is a statistics website, right?Five and Dive is listener-supported, you can join our Patreon at patreon.com/fiveanddive. If you want to get in contact with the show, the e-mail address is fiveanddive@baseballprospectus.com.                                          Our theme tune is by Jawn Stockton. You can listen to him on Spotify and Apple Music  Spotify: http://bit.ly/JawnStockton_SpotifyApple Music: http://bit.ly/JawnStockton_AM

For the show's first reissue, we return to an episode from almost precisely five years ago which compares players who wouldn't follow rules and inspired their clubs not to follow rules back, a subject framed by our once and possibly future public health crisis. We then turn to one of the great baseball stories, the misbegotten career of Don Padgett, who Branch Rickey tried to squeeze into a catcher's mask. This episode features a new introduction and occasional other interruptions.The Infinite Inning is not only about baseball but a state of mind. Steven Goldman discusses the game's present, past, and future with forays outside the foul lines to the culture at large. Expect stats, anecdotes, digressions, explorations of writing and fandom, and more Casey Stengel quotations than you thought possible. Along the way, they'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?

On Episode 957 of Hittin' Season, powered by WHYY in Philadelphia, hosts John Stolnis of The Good Phight, Baseball Prospectus' Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher of the Baseball Research Journal discuss the Phillies' weekend series win over the Diamondbacks, improvement from the offense, Max Kepler, Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper, shaky defense and how to fix MLB's moronic extra innings rule.

We consider the legacy of the great Venezuelan players who have graced the game going back to Alex Carrasquel in 1939, constructing an all-star team of players from that beleaguered nation. What can any one of them tell us about Venezuelans as a whole? Hint: it's the same thing that a highway serial killer can tell us about your best friend's gramma. Then we return to the strange, inebriated world of Shufflin' Phil Douglas. Did he betray not just the game and himself, but his wife as well?The Infinite Inning is not only about baseball but a state of mind. Steven Goldman discusses the game's present, past, and future with forays outside the foul lines to the culture at large. Expect stats, anecdotes, digressions, explorations of writing and fandom, and more Casey Stengel quotations than you thought possible. Along the way, they'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 begin with two players who would have been crowded off of modern rosters, and also couldn't have made the 1970s Oakland A's due to the owner's insistence on carrying two pinch-runners at once. Then we travel to Philadelphia and visit two pitchers seemingly on parallel tracks, one who might pitch forever as the other confronts a life-threatening illness.The Infinite Inning is not only about baseball but a state of mind. Steven Goldman discusses the game's present, past, and future with forays outside the foul lines to the culture at large. Expect stats, anecdotes, digressions, explorations of writing and fandom, and more Casey Stengel quotations than you thought possible. Along the way, they'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 visit the high-flying world of Florida real estate speculation 100 years ago with the volatile manager of the New York Giants John J. McGraw. When the bubble burst, would it be a case of murder? The Infinite Inning is not only about baseball but a state of mind. Steven Goldman discusses the game's present, past, and future with forays outside the foul lines to the culture at large. Expect stats, anecdotes, digressions, explorations of writing and fandom, and more Casey Stengel quotations than you thought possible. Along the way, they'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 Drum Improv_1_Jan_2019_3.mp3 by Glen_Hoban -- https://freesound.org/s/457500/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 conga stabz beat 88 bpm by simmys_recycle_bin -- https://freesound.org/s/757340/ -- License: Attribution 4.0) 

We examine the Los Angeles Angels' hot start in light of the 1987 Milwaukee Brewers' hot start and what happened afterwards, and stumble across a writer saying inappropriate things about Spike Owen and Teddy Higuera. Then we talk about the tragic loss of Octavio Dotel, “The Pitt,” and Philadelphia's 1903 “Black Saturday.” Trigger Warning: There's nothing graphic about any of the above, but we do talk a bit about more than one tragic building collapse. It's tasteful, it's respectful and, we hope, totally not exploitative, but thinking about it too much still might be troubling. The Infinite Inning is not only about baseball but a state of mind. Steven Goldman discusses the game's present, past, and future with forays outside the foul lines to the culture at large. Expect stats, anecdotes, digressions, explorations of writing and fandom, and more Casey Stengel quotations than you thought possible. Along the way, they'll try to solve

Eno and DVR discuss the Twins' contemplation of a six-man rotation to potentially incorporate David Festa and Zebby Matthews into their starting mix, the Brewers' heavy use of fastballs for third season in a row and why (beyond a rash of injuries) they might have been interested in Quinn Priester. Plus, they look at early playing time splits from job battles and expected platoons, and answer mailbag questions about Steinbrenner Field in the summer, Tony Gonsolin's pre-injury drop-off, Justin Verlander's first few starts as a Giant, and a few intriguing names to monitor on the waiver wire this weekend.Rundown2:37 Twins Considering a Six-Man Rotation6:07 Brewers Leading the League in Fastballs, AgainCurt Hogg's Story at the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel ($): https://bit.ly/brewersfb15:08 What Did the Brewers See in Quinn Priester?Mario Delgado Genzor's Piece at Baseball Prospectus ($): https://bit.ly/BPPriester20:42 Early Playing Time Splits32:38 Summer Expectations for Steinbrenner Field40:10 Tony Gonsolin's Pre-Injury Slide, Expectations for 202543:15 What Are You Seeing with Justin Verlander?46:21 Prospect of the Week, 2025 Debut!51:50 Other Weekend Waiver Targets to ConsiderFollow Eno on Bluesky: @enosarris.bsky.socialFollow DVR on Bluesky: @dvr.bsky.sociale-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.comJoin our Discord: https://discord.gg/FyBa9f3wFeSubscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrelsHosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno SarrisProducer: Brian SmithExecutive Producer: Derek VanRiper Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss the Twins' contemplation of a six-man rotation to potentially incorporate David Festa and Zebby Matthews into their starting mix, the Brewers' heavy use of fastballs for third season in a row and why (beyond a rash of injuries) they might have been interested in Quinn Priester. Plus, they look at early playing time splits from job battles and expected platoons, and answer mailbag questions about Steinbrenner Field in the summer, Tony Gonsolin's pre-injury drop-off, Justin Verlander's first few starts as a Giant, and a few intriguing names to monitor on the waiver wire this weekend. Rundown 2:37 Twins Considering a Six-Man Rotation 6:07 Brewers Leading the League in Fastballs, Again Curt Hogg's Story at the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel ($): https://bit.ly/brewersfb 15:08 What Did the Brewers See in Quinn Priester? Mario Delgado Genzor's Piece at Baseball Prospectus ($): https://bit.ly/BPPriester 20:42 Early Playing Time Splits 32:38 Summer Expectations for Steinbrenner Field 40:10 Tony Gonsolin's Pre-Injury Slide, Expectations for 2025 43:15 What Are You Seeing with Justin Verlander? 46:21 Prospect of the Week, 2025 Debut! 51:50 Other Weekend Waiver Targets to Consider Follow Eno on Bluesky: @enosarris.bsky.social Follow DVR on Bluesky: @dvr.bsky.social e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/FyBa9f3wFe Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris Producer: Brian Smith Executive Producer: Derek VanRiper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Episode 945 of Hittin' Season, The Good Phight's John Stolnis and Justin Klugh from Baseball Prospectus recap the Phillies' series victory over the previously unbeaten Los Angeles Dodgers. Why the Phils proved they are every bit the equal of the Dodgers over the weekend, with full breakdowns of each game! Plus, a quick look ahead to this week's series in Atlanta, and John & Justin try to help a Phillies fan keep his young child from being indoctrinated by his wife into becoming a Mets fan.

Infinite Inning 324: The Way We Live Now (Again) In a largely improvised episode we reexperience current events through the lens of Joe DiMaggio's 1941 hitting streak, counting the days while the war stays away, while once again a government effort requires us to rally ‘round Jackie Robinson—and Abraham Lincoln too, and we do so while checking in on the better brand of shortstops offered by the Negro Leagues' Newark Eagles and Philadelphia Stars (and shame Connie Mack one more time). The Infinite Inning is not only about baseball but a state of mind. Steven Goldman discusses the game's present, past, and future with forays outside the foul lines to the culture at large. Expect stats, anecdotes, digressions, explorations of writing and fandom, and more Casey Stengel quotations than you thought possible. Along the way, they'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?

Some developments out of Phillies camp this week: They've got a new backup catcher, Brandon Marsh will be the everyday centerfielder, and Ranger Suarez has a stiff back. Justin Klugh and Liz Roscher break it all down. Then, Craig Goldstein of Baseball Prospectus shares his Phillies takes.