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This episode covers some extras that happened over the last few weeks of May, and continues to conversation of what we might expect from MLB in June.
The Reds added three top-of-the-line arms to strengthen their rotation in 2019. MLB.com's Dani Wexelman (@DaniWex) and Reds reporter Mark Sheldon (@m_sheldon) spotlight their projected starting five and how Yasiel Puig embraced the cold in Cincinnati.
Top to bottom, the Brewers will bring back consistency and rotation depth in 2019. MLB.com's Dani Wexelman (@DaniWex) and Brewers reporter (@AdamMcCalvy) spotlight their core arms and relievers, plus discuss when Keston Hiura could make his debut.
Who's leading the Cardinals' rotation in 2019? MLB.com's Dani Wexelman (@DaniWex) and Cardinals reporter Jenifer Langosch (@LangoschMLB) spotlight Miles Mikolas and the rest of the staff, including where Adam Wainwright slots in and whether or not the Cardinals would seriously pursue Craig Kimbrel.
The Pirates’ greatest strength could be their outfield depth in 2019. MLB.com's Dani Wexelman (@DaniWex) and Pirates reporter Adam Berry (@adamdberry) spotlight the starting outfielders and how depth at each position will be a great asset to their season's success.
The Rays will once again rely on openers in 2019. MLB.com's Tim McMaster (@MLB_McMaster) and Rays reporter Juan Toribio (@juanctoribio) preview the club's bullpen heading into Spring Training. Who's the closer (1:00)? Who will do most of the opening (3:55)? Where will Brent Honeywell fit in once healthy (9:45)?
MLB.com’s Alyson Footer (@alysonfooter) and Rockies reporter Thomas Harding (@harding_at_mlb) discuss the latest with Nolan Arenado’s contract and if a long-term deal is possible before the season starts. Plus, they talk about which pitchers could step up to fill the void left by Adam Ottavino.
MLB.com’s Alyson Footer (@alysonfooter) and Richard Justice (@richardjustice) discuss the expectations for the club as they prepare for 2019. Plus, they share their thoughts on the new food options coming to Minute Maid Park this season.
The Nationals added depth to the rotation, signing Jeremy Hellickson to a one-year deal. MLB.com's Tim McMaster (@MLB_McMaster) and Nationals reporter Jamal Collier (@JamalCollier) discuss the move. Then, Tim and Jamal preview the club's outfield with and without Bryce Harper. Can Adam Eaton stay healthy (4:12)? Is Victor Robles ready to star (6:45)? Can Juan Soto be even better (9:23)?
Noah Syndergaard has reported to Port St. Lucie with confidence. MLB.com's Tim McMaster (@MLB_McMaster) and Mets reporter Anthony DiComo (@AnthonyDiComo) talk about the optimism surrounding the club as players head south (:45). Tim and Anthony then preview the Mets' outfield and how it will look come Opening Day (3:30).
MLB.com’s Alyson Footer (@alysonfooter) and Ranger reporter T.R. Sullivan (@Sullivan_Ranger) break down the signings of Matt Davidson and Jason Hammel and what they bring to the roster. Plus, they highlight Willie Calhoun and the chances he can earn a starting spot in 2019.
MLB.com’s Alyson Footer (@alysonfooter) and A’s reporter Jane Lee (@JaneMLB) talk about the deal closer Blake Treinen received during arbitration. Plus, they spotlight pitcher Liam Hendriks and what his role could be in 2019.
Spring Training is approaching with Manny Machado and Bryce Harper still available. MLB.com’s Anthony Castrovince (@castrovince) and White Sox reporter Scott Merkin (@scottmerkin) discuss the chances they could sign with Chicago. Plus, they talk about the excitement building around Eloy Jimenez and what he can bring to the club.
The wait is almost over for Vlad Guerrero Jr. MLB.com's Tim McMaster (MLB_McMaster) and Blue Jays reporter Gregor Chisholm (@gregorMLB) discuss the enormous expectations surrounding baseball's top prospect (3:25). Tim and Gregor also explain where new signing Freddy Galvis fits into the mix (1:15) as they preview Toronto's 2019 infield.
MLB.com’s Alyson Footer (@alysonfooter) and A’s reporter Jane Lee (@JaneMLB) talk about Sandy Alderson being healthy and returning to Oakland as senior advisor. Plus, they talk about if catcher Matt Wieters could be a fit in Oakland.
The Mets have plenty of different ways to configure their infield heading into 2019. MLB.com's Tim McMaster and Mets reporter Anthony DiComo try to make sense of it all (3:00). Also, John Ricco has a new title with the club and Tim and Anthony explain what the longtime member of the front office will be doing in his new role (:45).
The Yankees have added multiple new pieces to their infield this offseason. MLB.com's Tim McMaster (@MLB_McMaster) and reporter Bryan Hoch (@bryanhoch) explain how Troy Tulowitzki and DJ LeMahieu will fit into the lineup (1:30). Tim and Bryan also discuss the club's hiring of Allen Herschkowitz as the first environmental science advisor in professional sports (13:00).
Bryce Harper is going to meet with San Diego in Vegas. Padres reporter AJ Cassavell (@AJCassavell) joins MLB.com's Dani Wexelman (@DaniWex) to break down how Harper could fit into the team's future and why they're more likely to target Harper than Manny Machado.
MLB.com’s Alyson Footer (@alysonfooter) and Astros reporter Brian McTaggart (@brianmctaggart) highlight the potential of Dallas Keuchel or Marwin Gonzalez returning to the club. Plus, they talk about the young prospects, including Forrest Whitley, that could see big league action soon.
Will J.T. Realmuto be sporting a red uniform come Opening Day? MLB.com's Dani Wexelman (@DaniWex) and Reds reporter Mark Sheldon (@m_sheldon) discuss what it would cost to acquire the star catcher and play "Most Likely To" this season.
MLB.com’s Alyson Footer (@alysonfooter) and D-backs reporter Steve Gilbert (@SteveGilbertMLB) discuss Torey Lovullo’s contract extension and what it means going forward. Plus, they break down the signing of Greg Holland and how he will fit in the bullpen.
Who's most likely to start Opening Day for the Pirates? What about who drives the craziest car during Spring Training? MLB.com's Dani Wexelman (@DaniWex) and Pirates reporter (@adamdberry) have some fun before Spring Training spotlighting guys who are "most likely" to do great things this season.
Christian Yelich's NL MVP tour is coming to an end as Spring Training begins in less than two weeks. MLB.com's Dani Wexelman (@DaniWex) and Brewers reporter Adam McCalvy (@AdamMcCalvy) spotlight the star and how he's taken advantage of his offseason, and vote on "Most Likely To" this season.
MLB.com’s Anthony Castrovince (@castrovince) and Royals reporter Jeffrey Flanagan (@FlannyMLB) discuss Whit Merrifield’s new four-year contract and what he has meant to the club. Plus, they spotlight Kyle Zimmer, who hopes for a breakout 2019 season.
The Rangers add another arm to the bullpen. MLB.com’s Alyson Footer (@alysonfooter) and Rangers reporter T.R. Sullivan (@Sullivan_Ranger) break down the signing of Shawn Kelley and its impact. Plus, they highlight pitcher Chris Nunn, whose viral video got him a Minor League deal with the Rangers.
As Spring Training draws closer, Nolan Arenado and the club are still without a deal. MLB.com’s Alyson Footer (@alysonfooter) and Rockies reporter Thomas Harding (@harding_at_mlb) discuss the impact once players report for camp. Plus, they highlight Wade Davis and his expectations for 2019.
Fake Twitter accounts and unfounded rumors are making it hard to know what the truth is about Bryce Harper and Manny Machado. MLB.com’s Tim McMaster and Phillies reporter Todd Zolecki try to make sense of it all (:53). Then Tim and Todd take a closer look at the Phillies' infield heading into 2019 (5:50) and discuss where Jimmy Rollins fits on the club’s Mount Rushmore after joining the front office (17:20).
There's no lack of excitement coming out of the Cardinals' organization as they round the corner into Spring Training. MLB.com's Dani Wexelman (@DaniWex) and Cardinals reporter Jenifer Langosch (@LangoschMLB) spotlight how Paul Goldschmidt's already won over the team, Yadier Molina's interest in playing past 2020 with St. Louis and why Jose Martinez might get a shot at left field if Marcell Ozuna isn't ready for Opening Day.
MLB.com’s Tim McMaster and Phillies reporter Todd Zolecki discuss Roy Halladay’s time in Philadelphia (3:40). Tim and Todd continue to go around the horn, previewing the catcher position heading into Spring Training (11:50).
MLB.com’s Tim McMaster and Marlins reporter Joe Frisaro discuss the latest rumors about J.T. Realmuto (:38). Then, Tim and Joe take a closer look at the Marlins’ projected rotation heading into 2019 (4:30).
MLB.com’s Anthony Castrovince (@castrovince) and Indians reporter Mandy Bell (@MandyBell02) discuss Omar Vizquel not getting into the Hall of Fame and his chances down the road. Plus, they highlight Bradley Zimmer, who hopes to return and make a statement in 2019.
MLB.com’s Anthony Castrovince (@castrovince) and Tigers reporter Jason Beck (@beckjason) talk about Miguel Cabrera and Michael Fulmer’s status for Spring Training and how returning from injuries will impact their season. Plus, they break down what Gordon Beckham and Kaleb Cowart will bring to the team in 2019.
With Spring Training under a month away, MLB.com’s Anthony Castrovince (@castrovince) and Royals reporter Jeffrey Flanagan (@FlannyMLB) spotlight the right-field battle and who might get the starting nod. Plus, they break down the starting rotation and the expectations for the staff.
Should the Mets have pursued Bryce Harper or Manny Machado? MLB.com's Tim McMaster and Mets reporter Anthony DiComo discuss it (1:00). Tim and Anthony go on to break down the Mets' bullpen heading into 2019 (6:40), and finish up the podcast talking about J.D. Davis' potential as a two-way player (13:00).
MLB.com’s Tim McMaster and Nationals reporter Jamal Collier discuss what Max Scherzer still needs to do in order to reach Cooperstown. (1:00) Then, Tim and Jamal break down the Nationals’ bullpen heading into 2019 (6:15)
Sonny Gray's deal with the Reds was a match made in baseball heaven. MLB.com's Dani Wexelman (@DaniWex) and Reds reporter Mark Sheldon (@m_sheldon) spotlight Gray's willingness to ink a three-year extension and how he'll feel right at home at Great American Ball Park.
David Stearns had a busy week, adding a new title to his name and earning a raise and contract extension. MLB.com's Dani Wexelman (@DaniWex) and Brewers reporter (@AdamMcCalvy) spotlight Stearns' promotion, explain why Miller Park's name change won't affect the fan experience and discuss the Adam McCalvy curse.
MLB.com’s Alyson Footer (@alysonfooter) and D-backs reporter Steve Gilbert (@SteveGilbertMLB) discuss what could be next for the team after signing Wilmer Flores. Plus, they spotlight catching prospect Carson Kelly and the expectations for him heading into 2019.
The Padres' log jam in the outfield has so many unknown variables, but A.J. Preller finds value in numbers. MLB.com's Dani Wexelman (@DaniWex) and Padres reporter AJ Cassavell (@AJCassavell) break down the team's outfield options, including Wil Myers in left, and why AJ doesn't think the Padres' starting third baseman is currently on the team.
The Red Sox have impressive depth across their infield. MLB.com’s Tim McMaster (@MLB_McMaster) and Red Sox reporter Ian Browne go around the horn in their infield preview (2:00). Then, Tim and Ian discuss prospect Michael Chavis and the expectations surrounding the third baseman heading into 2019 (11:20).
Should Nationals fans be worried after the Phillies’ meeting with Bryce Harper? MLB.com’s Tim McMaster (@MLB_McMaster) and Nationals reporter Jamal Collier (@jamalcollier) discuss that (:45). Then, Tim and Jamal take a closer look at the Nationals’ starting rotation and consider best and worst-case scenarios (6:40). Finally, we’ll hear from Nationals No. 2 prospect Carter Kieboom, who attended the Rookie Career Development Program in Miami (16:35).
J.T. Realmuto is still a Marlin. MLB.com’s Tim McMaster (@MLB_McMaster) and Marlins reporter Joe Frisaro (@joefrisaro) update the Realmuto and Dan Straily trade markets (:45). Tim and Joe then break down the club’s infield heading into 2019 and how it could change as the season progresses (2:40). Finally, hear from Marlins outfield prospect Monte Harrison, who was at the Rookie Career Development Program earlier this month (10:00).
How does the Braves’ rotation stack up against the rest of the NL East? MLB.com’s Tim McMaster (@MLB_McMaster) and Braves reporter Mark Bowman (@MLBBowman) discuss the veterans and prospects (1:00). Tim and Mark also look ahead to Chop Fest coming up this weekend and look back on the career of Terry Pendleton (14:25). Finally, we hear from Kyle Wright, who attended MLB’s Rookie Career Development Program (18:24).
MLB.com’s Alyson Footer (@alysonfooter) and Rangers reporter T.R. Sullivan (@Sullivan_Ranger) talk about the team’s plan to sign a third baseman before the season starts. Plus, they highlight Jose Leclerc and what his role could be in 2019.
MLB.com's Alyson Footer (@alysonfooter) and Mariners reporter Greg Johns (@GregJohnsMLB) break down the signings of Tim Beckham and Cory Gearrin and how they will help the club in 2019. Plus, they talk about the future of Daniel Vogelbach in Seattle.
Are the White Sox all in on Machado? MLB.com's Anthony Castrovince (@castrovince) and White Sox reporter (@scottmerkin) discuss their plan to lure him with Jon Jay, why he'd be a fit and how realistic this deal is for the White Sox.
How will bullpenning and the opener impact the Rays' rotation? MLB.com’s Tim McMaster (@MLB_McMaster) and Rays reporter Juan Toribio (@juanctoribio) break down the club’s rotation heading into the 2019 season. They also discuss the Rays' need for another bullpen arm and the addition of Oliver Drake to the roster.
MLB.com's Tim McMaster (@MLB_McMaster) and Yankees reporter Bryan Hoch (@BryanHoch) discuss the chances that Sonny Gray still gets moved this offseason. Then Tim and Bryan break down the Bombers' outfield heading into the 2019 season.
How can the Rockies be competitive in 2019? Will they sign Nolan Arenado to a long-term deal? MLB.com’s Alyson Footer (@alysonfooter) and Rockies reporter Thomas Harding (@harding_at_mlb) highlight the objectives the club will need to address during the Hot Stove season.
Health will be a big key for the Angels with the upcoming 2019 season. MLB.com’s Alyson Footer (@alysonfooter) and Angels reporter Rhett Bollinger (@RhettBollinger) break it all down. Plus, they highlight the importance of getting Jonathan Lucroy as their catcher and they look at the starting-rotation depth after the club signed Matt Harvey and Trevor Cahill.