Podcast appearances and mentions of zach kram

Brian recaps the Celtics' loss to the Mavericks on Thursday night and where things went wrong (0:45). Then, Brian chats with The Ringer's Zach Kram about the NBA trade deadline, the big trades across the league, how they affect both conferences, and where Cooper Flagg could end up (22:50). Brian and Jamie end with their picks and best bets for the Super Bowl (1:01:40). We want to hear from you! Leave Brian a message on the listener line at 617-396-7172. Or send us your questions for our mailbag at offthepike@gmail.com. The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Host: Brian Barrett Guest: Zach Kram Producer: Jamie McClellan Additional Production Supervision: Steve Ceruti Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Before you put on your costume, put on the latest edition of 'Ringer-Verse Recommends'! Join the 'Ringer-Verse' and 'House of R' crews as they hand out Halloween treats of tasty nerd-culture content in the latest installment of their monthly mini-pod about fandom favorites from TV, anime, movies, video games, books, comics, and beyond that were released recently but not yet covered in-depth on a full-length episode. Host: Ben Lindbergh Guests: Jomi Adeniran, Steve Ahlman, Charles Holmes, Zach Kram, Van Lathan, Joanna Robinson, Mallory Rubin, and Arjuna Ramgopal Senior Producer and Video Production: Steve Ahlman Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal Social: Jomi Adeniran Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The dog days are over, but Ringer-Verse Recommends goes on! Listen in as the Ringer-Verse and ‘House of R' crews search the recomm-ends of the earth for hidden nerd-culture gems. They then return with the latest installment of their monthly mini-pod about their fandom favorites from TV, anime, movies, video games, books, comics, and beyond that were released recently but not yet covered in-depth on a full-length episode. Host: Ben Lindbergh Guests: Van, Lathan, Charles Holmes, Joanna Robinson, Jomi Adeniran, Miles Surrey, Steve Ahlman, Zach Kram, and Matt James Senior Producer: Steve Ahlman Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal Social: Jomi Adeniran Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Julio Torres (Los Espookys) is back on HBO with a new 6-episode series that blends sketch comedy with a surreal narrative about a lost oyster earring, a concerning mole (or maybe it's just a birthmark), and Julio's struggle to find a new apartment without providing his “proof of existence." We'll take you on our dream-like experience watching the first three episodes, featuring guest stars like Aidy Bryant (in a wild informercial bit), Jaboukie Young-White (as a influencer confronted by The Algorithm), and Tilda Swinton (as the voice of water). But first! We've got the latest news from the Paramount Death Watch, including the $2 Paramount+ price hike that will probably solve everything. Netflix is launching permanent retail spaces in two U.S. malls. We try to imagine the synergistic experiences that await. It's Pride Month so we're sharing our favorite LGBTQIA+ shows from the Streamageddon back catalog and check in with series like Interview with the Vampire and Ripley. And find out which late night talk show host Chris has completely blocked from his memory in a round-up of news from 11 PM and beyond! (Hint: It's a CBS host!) ———

Raheem is joined by Zach Kram to go over every NBA semifinal matchup and share some insights after seeing the first few games in every series. Finally, Raheem shares his weekend boxing preview before closing the show with tonight's Hundred bet. The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Host: Raheem Palmer Guest: Zach Kram Producer: Mike Wargon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this bonus episode, Abu and Obssa share what you had to say about Netflix's 3 Body Problem and chat with Zach Kram from The Ringer about his love of both the show and original books. Join our Patreon for bonus content and helpful reading materials Join our Discord to keep the conversation going Check our Season 1 Schedule to keep up with the reading assignments Email us your thoughts and questions: scifibookclubpod@loreparty.com Follow Zach on Twitter and read his review of 3 Body Problem on The Ringer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's time for a jam-packed episode of ‘House of R!' Mal and Jo break down the electrifying trailer for the new Star Wars show, 'The Acolyte' (06:12). Then they drive into their first episode of 'House of Reads,' as they enter da book club and talk about 'The Three-Body Problem' (41:53). Later they bring on Zach Kram to discuss all of the spoiler-filled goodness that might come in the new TV adaptation (63:27). Hosts: Mallory Rubin and Joanna Robinson Guest: Zach Kram Senior Producer: Steve Ahlman Additional Production: Arjuna Ramgopal Social: Jomi Adeniran Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

[From March 12, 2018] Inspired by an article by Zach Kram at the Ringer last year, Bobby and Alex take a deep dive into the history of “Backyard Baseball,” the kids-video-game-turned-cult-classic that they grew up with. They bring on Nick Mirkovich, one of the game's co-creators, to talk about the game's inception and its evolution through the years, and speculate on why the game remains so firmly embedded in the minds of this generation. They dive into the colorful personalities of each character and reminisce on what made the game so special in the first place. It's a full-on nostalgia sesh, featuring real gameplay and cameos from Sunny Day, Vinnie the Gooch, and the one and only Pablo Sanchez. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tipping-pitches/message

We're crash-landing back into regular podcasting with the Max original animated series Scavengers Reign. Created by Joseph Bennett and Charles Huettner, the seeds of Scavengers Reign were planted in an Adult Swim short before blossoming into a brilliant sci-fi series teeming with surrealist detours and bits of body horror. Paul and Arlo rave about the show's Cronenberg-meets-Miyazaki vibe, laud the series' refusal to provide easy answers, and hope against hope that this beautiful, otherworldly thing will continue to thrive in a second season. Plus, Arlo is the worst.   NEXT: more Western adult animation with heavy influence from the East, as the boys confront Netflix's Blue Eye Samurai.     BREAKDOWN 00:00:45  -  Intro / Arlo is the worst! 00:27:55  -  Scavengers Reign 01:53:45  -  Outro / Next     LINKS Scavengers Reign's Writers on Creating a Beautifully Hostile Sci-Fi Show by Justin Carter, Gizmodo One With Nature, Stranded in Outer Space by Kambole Campbell, Variety The Sonic Ecosystem of Scavengers Reign by Marc Weidenbaum, Disquiet Max's Scavengers Reign captures the beauty and terror of a truly alien world by Andrew Webster, The Verge The sci-fi adventure Scavengers Reign is an anomalous alien wonder by Toussaint Egan, Polygon Scavengers Reign Might Be the Most Underrated Show of the Year by Zach Kram, The Ringer     MUSIC “Interstellar Outer Space” by Anderson East, Maybe We Never Die (2021) “Slime Creatures from Outer Space” by “Weird Al” Yankovic, Dare to Be Stupid (1985)     GOBBLEDYCARES National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/  Abortion Funds in Every State: https://bit.ly/AbortionFundsTwitter Support AAPI communities and those affected by anti-Asian violence: https://www.gofundme.com/c/act/stop-aapi-hate Support the AAPI Civic Engagement Fund: https://aapifund.org/ Support Black Lives Matter and find anti-racism resources: https://blacklivesmatters.carrd.co/ The Trevor Project provides information and support to LGBTQ youth: thetrevorproject.org Trans Lifeline: https://translifeline.org/  National Center for Transgender Equality: transequality.org Advocate for writers who might be owed money due to discontinuance of royalties: https://www.writersmustbepaid.org/  Help teachers and classrooms in need: https://www.donorschoose.org/ Do your part to remove the burden of medical debt for individuals, families, and veterans: https://ripmedicaldebt.org/ Register to vote: https://vote.gov/  

Bernie chats with The Ringer NBA and MLB writer and Washington University alumnus Zach Kram. Zach explains why the Nuggets dominated in Game 3, what the Celtics future could look like without Jaylen Brown and why the Cardinals are so inconsistent.

Brian recaps the Celtics' loss to the Knicks in double overtime and tries to make sense of the team's recent struggles (0:30). Then, he chats with The Ringer's Zach Kram about Malcolm Brogdon's Sixth Man of the Year chances, Kram's NBA Odds Generator, the Red Sox's upcoming season, and more (23:30). Brian ends with a couple Pats and Bruins nuggets, and continues his “I wish I could have bet on that” moments bracket (50:15). We want to hear from you! Leave Brian a message on the listener line at 617-396-7172. Or send us your questions for our mailbag at offthepike@gmail.com. Host: Brian Barrett Guest: Zach Kram Producer: Jamie McClellan Additional Production Supervision: Steve Ceruti Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From 'Clap Your Hands' (subscribe here) - Eliot & Kyle react to an article written by Zach Kram of 'The Ringer' on James Harden and how poor his defensive play is.(Hint: It's not THAT bad) 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

From 'Clap Your Hands' (subscribe here) - Eliot & Kyle react to an article written by Zach Kram of 'The Ringer' on James Harden and how poor his defensive play is.(Hint: It's not THAT bad) 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

Contributor to the Ringer Zach Kram joins First Up to chat about his recent article discussing the crossroads the Raptors currently find themselves at. Kram shares his thoughts on why he thinks the Raptors should retain Scottie Barnes and the team's other two-way talent, what the market might look like if the Raptors' decided to trade Fred VanVleet, why he thinks Trae Young remains in Atlanta despite reports of discontentment and more.

Seerat and Kyle are joined by The Ringer's own Zach Kram to discuss the Pelicans' impressive start to the season. They begin by examining Zion Williamson's devastating athleticism, his history in the league, and how other teams have to adjust to his size and strength. After the break, they dissect the rest of the Pelicans squad, talk about the moves they can make to get to the next level, and speculate on what lies ahead in the future (28:02). Hosts: J. Kyle Mann and Seerat Sohi Guest: Zach Kram Associate Producer: Chris Sutton Production Supervision: Conor Nevins and Benjamin Cruz Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Ringer's Zach Kram stops by to talk the first week of the season and to consider the value of pick swaps in light of the likely Wobbling For Wemby race to be run this season. Download the Callin app for iOS and Android to listen to this podcast live, call in, and more! Also available at callin.com

We continue familiarizing ourselves with all these teams at the start of the season, with a focus on TOR/MIA, GSW/DEN, HOU/MEM, ATL/ORL, plus some smaller notes on the Spurs, Pacers, Thunder, and Pistons.Plus, Friday Daily Duncs.Friday Daily DuncsRob MurphyThe Pistons are investigating assistant general manager Rob Murphy over an allegation of workplace misconduct involving a former female employee, according to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN. Hopefully, the investigation will produce a just outcome.James Edwards III of The Athletic profiled Murphy in August.LeBron JamesLeBron James drew attention to the Lakers' lack of quality 3-point shooting after they shot 10-for-40 (25%) from beyond the arc in their season-opener.Well, they shot even worse – 9-for-45 (20%) – in a loss to the Clippers last night.LeBron:"Our ballclub is our ballclub, and I'm definitely not going to sit here and harp on what we can't do every single game. That's not a leader. What I know we can do: We can defend our ass off. And we did that tonight, which gave us an opportunity to win, and we just couldn't make it happen. But, I'm OK with that."LeBron both tries to be a good leader and sometimes makes passive-aggressive comments. In this case, he has already made his point. The Lakers' roster has a crucial flaw, particularly for a LeBron team. The front office heard that. Not much else to be done at this moment.At some point, LeBron might try to accelerate the Lakers' trade timeline or reiterate what he wants a trade to accomplish.But for now, LeBron is seemingly settling into trying to win games with the teammates he has.Darvin HamRussell Westbrook said coming off the bench in the Lakers' preseason finale "absolutely" could have contributed to his hamstring injury.Lakers coach Darvin Ham:"First and foremost, let me be clear with this. The Lakers, myself, my staff – we in no way, shape or form would ever put anybody – a player, an employee – in harm's way, be it physically, mentally, spiritually. We don't stand for that. We're not about that. That's not who we are."Ham said he and Westbrook had a "brief discussion."Ham:"We moved on. We've got an understanding. And again, as the coach of this team, my staff and I, we're going to do what's best for our team to be as successful as it can be. And I'll just leave it at that.”Ham was hired in part for his ability to hold players accountable. Westbrook is a different challenge. But Ham sounds resolute.Ham, via Kyle Goon of The Orange County Register:"You have to be prepared to do whatever your team needs you to do,” he added. “And that's called being a professional. So, however we choose to use him, there has to be a willingness there to sacrifice for your teammates and the overall good of the team if that course of action is going to lead to success.”The true test will come if Ham decides bringing Westbrook off the bench would be better for the Lakers. And, really, we might not know if that happens. We'll know only if Ham follows through. Assuming the coach does, we'll see how Westbrook buys in – and how Ham responds if Westbrook makes more waves.But for now, Ham can call this latest issue quashed.Christian WoodWhich of Luka Doncic's Mavericks teammates has been the best player? Kristaps Porzingis set the bar while fizzling, which says something about the bar. I'd say Jalen Brunson last year.Tim Cato of The Athletic analyzes whether it might be Christian Wood.Wood isn't even starting for Dallas. But he's darned talented and, as Cato details, has already shown nice chemistry with Doncic. That seems sustainable given the multiple ways Wood can attack the pick-and-roll. If Wood defends a little better – I believe he's capable – this pairing could really work.Santi AldamaDanny's pick for biggest surprise player – Grizzlies forward Santi Aldama – looks pretty good. Starting at power forward with Jaren Jackson Jr. out, Aldama scored 18 points on 3-of-8 3-point shooting and grabbed 11 rebounds in Memphis' season-opening win over the Knicks on Wednesday. The Grizzlies outscored New York by 18 in his 39 minutes (and got outscored by 15 in the other nine minutes).Damichael Cole of the Memphis Commercial Appeal looked deeper into Aldama's performance, including how the slender Aldama held up defensively against the burlier Julius Randle.Victor WembanyamaWant more Victor Wembanyama hype? David Aldridge of The Athletic talked to six NBA personnel people about the presumptive No. 1 pick in the 2023 draft and delivers plenty.My favorite quote:It's not just his skill. It's the flexibility he moves with. It's incredible. It's like seeing a giraffe, but a giraffe that's moving like a completely different animal. And you're going: ‘Wait a minute; that's a giraffe, it's supposed to move slowly.' And, meanwhile, it's like this giraffe that's a predator. The giraffe is hunting you. And you're going wait, what? It's something we've never seen before.It's also interesting how Aldridge's sources seem divided on how to best deploy the 7-foot-4 Wembanyama defensively.One: "He's not a switch defender; he's a drop guy."Another: "He slides and moves so well, if they put him in pick-and-roll, he can switch. There's not a lot of fives in our league that can do that."A third: "He's a four. He's not going to be able to guard threes out on the perimeter all the time."A fourth: "No one that big is going to stay in front of prime-time NBA guards consistently out on the perimeter. But he has enough lateral movement — it's probably the best I've ever seen in anybody that big – that he'll surprise you from time to time on some stuff out there. But the great equalizer, if you blow by him, you talk about some guys that'll be looking over their shoulder as they're going to the basket. You could beat him, and he could be at the free-throw line, and he takes one step and he's pinning the thing."A fifth: "If whoever he gets drafted by ever had some type of conception of utilizing a zone? Can you imagine having a backline (with him) – or maybe even putting him in the top of defenses, trying to see over this albatross of a player?"Pick swapsPick swaps have become the rage as teams look to circumvent the Stepien Rule, which prohibits trading future first-round picks in consecutive drafts. Pick swaps allow teams to convey value in consecutive future drafts by retaining a first-rounder every other year, albeit a lower first-rounder.Think of pick swaps, and the first one that comes to mind is probably Celtics-Nets in 2017. As a condition of the Kevin Garnett-Paul Pierce trade four years earlier, Boston swapped its first-round pick (No. 27) for Brooklyn's (No. 1). The Celtics traded down to No. 3 and picked Jayson Tatum, who has developed into a star and left the Nets (and 76ers, who moved up to get Markelle Fultz No. 1) looking foolish.But pick swaps don't usually work like that.Zach Kram of The Ringer dug into the history of pick swaps and found most don't even get exercised. He determined the average value of a first-round pick swap is the No. 36 pick.Kram's research and presentation are certainly useful. Read his article, and you will be more informed.But I think he underplays the upside of pick swaps. The draft – and therefore, draft picks – are about upside. For many teams, the draft is the best – maybe only – way to get a franchise-changing star. That's more likely to happen high in the draft.A high second-rounder might have the average value of a pick swap. But only an unprotected pick swap has that limitless upside. That carries significant value.At some point, successful teams have all hit big on a player. Moderately positive moves aren't enough. You can keep hitting singles. But in a league with 29 other teams, some of them will hit home runs and surpass you. If you want to get to the top, you sometimes have to swing for the fences – even if you're more likely to strike out.Scoring recordYou probably know LeBron James will soon pass Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the NBA's all-time scoring record. Do you know how many points Abdul-Jabbar scored? I sure didn't.Finding an excellent angle on such a well-covered storyline, Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times looked into how few people know the number and why that is. This is a really cool article.After reading it, I can tell you Abdul-Jabbar's career scoring mark is 38,387 – a number I'm sure to forget by tomorrow.Rudy Gobert/Karl-Anthony TownsNikola Jokic has become an All-NBA mainstay at center. Joel Embiid and Anthony Davis are likely All-NBA players when healthy, which isn't always. Often, it feels like one spot is left for Rudy Gobert or Karl-Anthony Towns. In fact, Gobert or Towns – but never both – have made All-NBA each of the last six years.Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic explored how Gobert and Towns viewed each other while foes and now teammates with the Timberwolves.Thanasis AntetokounmpoThanasis Antetokounmpo actually played a small role on the Bucks last season as a defensive specialist on the wing, helping to shed the image he's in the NBA only because he's Giannis Antetokounmpo's brother.But good luck convincing anyone now.Video caught Thanasis picking Giannis' nose before Milwaukee's win over the 76ers last night.In defense of Thanasis, it wasn't a deep pick. He did the ol' thumb-out move. Though technically a pick, that's barely more than a scratch.In prosecution of Thanasis, it was someone else's nose!-Dan FeldmanMore episodes are available exclusively on Dunc'd On Prime! DuncdOn.SupportingCast.FM/joinSubscribe to our weekly mailing list for free bonus content and all the info you need to keep up with the latest from Nate and Danny!With @DannyLeroux and @NateDuncanNBA

‘The Full Go' returns as Jason recaps his week before later diving into the Bulls' 116-108 victory over the Heat (06:12). He discusses DeMar DeRozan carrying the offense, Ayo Dosunmu's impressive season debut, and Patrick Williams being completely nonexistent. He's then joined by The Ringer's own Zach Kram to get a different perspective on the Bulls' win (26:12). Later, Jim Murray from 98.5 Sports Hub joins the show to preview the Bears-Patriots Monday night game, and discuss what he's seen from the Celtics after their win over the 76ers (44:49). Host: Jason Goff Guests: Zach Kram and Jim Murray Producers: Steve Ceruti, Jessie Lopez, and Tony Gill Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With Meg Rowley on the road, Ben Lindbergh reunites with his former Ringer MLB Show colleagues Michael Baumann, Zach Kram, and Bobby Wagner to discuss the moods of Mets and Phillies fans and catch up on the first few days of Division Series action, touching on Yordan Alvarez, Robbie Ray, a playoff walk-off oddity, Bryce […]

Bernie chats with NBA writer Zach Kram of the Ringer who is in Boston for the NBA Finals.

Washington University alumnus Zach Kram of The Ringer joins Bernie to talk NBA and baseball. Zach offers up his reasoning on why the Lakers didn't even come close to reaching the lofty expectations set for them this season. Bernie and Zach also talk about why they think the Cardinals will do better than many are expecting this season thanks to the team's defense.

If you frequent The Ringer, you know his work, either written for their NBA and MLB departments or as part of the production team on the popular "Binge Mode" podcast Zach Kram joins the Late Night Happy Hour, and we start with the NBA game of the night, with Utah and Philly, two teams vying for seeding and respect. Philly wins, behind a monster game for Joel Embiid. Is this the year where the huge talent and big numbers translate into something bigger? What's different about Embiid this year? And what's different about hoops? What does the next generation look like? Kram makes a great point about how this is the first generation of kids who grew up watching shooters like Steph Curry or Damian Lillard, and bigs who regularly shoot - and make - 3's like Karl Anthony Towns. The game is only going to evolve more into a pace/space/skill direction. We talk All Star controversies. Why is Mike Conley not heading to Atlanta (at least not yet)? What should the NBA be doing to make the game better, and get more worthy players involved? What about the league's refereeing problem? What might fix it? We then dive into "nerd tv," specifically around Star Wars and Marvel. Why do these projects seem to translate so much better to TV, especially when looking at Star Wars? Because, dirty little secret, most of the movies kind of suck. Finally, we look at Fernando Tatis, Jr., and why he's arguably the most important player in baseball, even if he's not the best.

Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, and Zach Kram break down MLB's on-field action, roster moves, and quirks every week, with occasional appearances from a rotating cast of Ringer staffers and plugged-in media members around the league. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Zach Kram breaks out more halfway-hot takes to open this week's episode, including that the Angels offense will finish in the top two in baseball but the team will miss the playoffs, Fernando Tatís Jr. will go 20/20 in only 60 games, and more (1:40). Then, Ben Lindbergh joins to make sense of the Cleveland starting rotation violating COVID protocols, and then discusses the biggest movers in playoff odds this week (25:02). Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We briefly discuss the evolving situation surrounding the coronavirus as it pertains to Major League Baseball (0:45) before previewing the upcoming season by analyzing whether teams will finish over or under their projected win totals (11:55). We finish with Zach Kram making four long-shot predictions that he thinks have a chance to play out in the National League this year (38:16). Disclaimer: This podcast was recorded Wednesday, March 11, at noon PT. Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We break down the Vlad Guerrero Jr. show that was the Home Run Derby (1:11) before calling up FanGraphs' Eric Longenhagen to talk about what stood out to him at the MLB Futures Game (17:44). Then, to wrap up the pod, Ben Lindbergh comes on to speculate about what we most have to look forward to in the second half of the season (37:06). Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram, Guest: Eric Longenhagen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We mourn the unexpected loss of Los Angeles Angels pitcher Tyler Skaggs and discuss what he meant to his team and the camaraderie of MLB teammates (0:48). Then Donnie Kwak joins the show to talk about his cousin Tommy Edman's first few weeks in the big leagues (17:30), and finally we discuss the stark contrast between the NBA and MLB offseasons and free agency (38:35). Host: Michael Baumann, Zach Kram, Ben Lindbergh Guests: Donnie Kwak Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We mull over Zach Kram's preseason prediction that the Tampa Bay Rays would win the AL East and wonder: Should that prediction be expanded (2:20)? Then, The Athletic's Astros beat writer, Jake Kaplan, calls into the show to talk about the slow start and resurgence of Houston, the most-stacked team in baseball (21:30). Finally, Ben Lindbergh joins the show to recap last week's Ozzie Albies extension (36:30). Hosts: Michael Baumann, Ben Lindbergh, Zach Kram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With a few more days to process the news and observe how Bryce Harper is being received in Philadelphia, we go deep on the structure of his contract, the immediate returns on ticket and merchandise sales, and the now-stacked NL East (2:20). Then, Marc Normandin joins the podcast to discuss the current state of labor relations between players and owners, what the future holds for the next CBA negotiations, and the history of owner collusion that led us to this point (38:16). Hosts: Michael Baumann, Zach Kram, Ben Lindbergh Guest: Marc Normandin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by fellow staff writers Ben Lindbergh and Zach Kram to discuss the ease with which Boston dispatched Los Angeles to win its fourth World Series of the century (1:30). Then, the three discuss what this means for generational ace Clayton Kershaw and the Dodgers going forward (40:32). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by fellow staff writers Ben Lindbergh and Zach Kram to discuss the dominance of the Red Sox lineup through Games 1 and 2 of the World Series (1:15). Then, the trio discuss some leaguewide hiring news, including the three managerial hirings and the Mets' GM search (44:26). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Ben Lindbergh and Zach Kram to look back at the Dodgers' triumph over the Brewers in the NLCS (2:26) and discuss the most prominent upcoming storylines of the World Series (12:42). Then they give their World Series predictions and MVP picks (47:06). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by fellow staff writers Ben Lindbergh and Zach Kram to break down Game 6 (and possibly 7) of the NLCS (1:18). Then, the three give a postmortem on their “Astros in five games” prediction (30:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Ben Lindbergh and Zach Kram to discuss another substandard playoff start from Clayton Kershaw, Dave Roberts's strange roster choices, and a shaky Brewers bullpen (1:53). Then, they wonder whether Red Sox ace Chris Sale can get over a stomach illness that dampened his Game 1 start, and whether the Red Sox offense can keep the team alive in Houston (35:13). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Ben Lindbergh and Zach Kram to predict storylines and key players for the AL and NL Championship Series, including whether the Red Sox stand a chance against the juggernaut Astros (8:40), and whether Milwaukee's vaunted bullpen will look human against a deep Dodgers lineup (27:26). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Ben Lindbergh and Zach Kram to discuss the shortcomings of Yankees manager Aaron Boone against his counterpart Alex Cora (2:25). Then, they recap the disappointing performance gaps in the NL Division Series and wonder whether the Dodgers and Brewers will match up more evenly (28:33). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Zach Kram to break down the NL division series matchups between the Braves and Dodgers and the hipster-baseball-fan series of the year, the Brewers and Rockies (1:11). Then Ben Lindbergh comes on to share his experience at the wild-card game at Yankee Stadium (26:00) and give predictions on how the AL division series will unfold (27:30). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann brings on Zach Kram to talk about how the Athletics aren't as much of an underdog against the Yankees in the AL wild card as some might think (1:47). Then, Ben Lindbergh joins to discuss the Brewers-Cubs and Rockies-Dodgers tiebreakers as well as how the ensuing wild-card game between the Cubs and the Rockies will shake out (24:14). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ringer staff writers Michael Baumann and Zach Kram discuss the players who most excited and fascinated the Ringer staff in 2018, including Shohei Ohtani and Matt Chapman (1:53). Then, Ben Lindbergh hops on to discuss the story lines from this season we'll remember most (38:42). New York and Boston Go Nuts, and We Go Nuts About Shohei Ohtani | The Ringer MLB Show (Ep. 130) Sam Miller: The Year That ... : Finding the single memory that defines each baseball season since 1903 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Zach Kram to talk about reasons to enjoy baseball even if your team isn't in the pennant race (2:10). Then producer Bobby Wagner steps in front of the microphone to join Baumann in fielding listener questions during a special mailbag segment (19:41). Finally, Ben Lindbergh jumps in to discuss the National League's best interleague performance in 15 years, and how the balance of power has shifted (40:56). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann solicits bold predictions for the MLB stretch run. Zach Kram joins the show to talk about the Tampa Bay Rays' chase for the AL wild card (0:00), Claire McNear predicts that Bryce Harper will put one last exclamation point on his Nationals career (16:00), and Ben Lindbergh talks about Jacob deGrom's historically low win total and how it might help him win the NL Cy Young Award (26:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Zach Kram to draft the eight MLB playoff races and rank them from most to least interesting (2:30). Then Ben Lindbergh joins the show to talk about Aaron Nola's weird statistical season, how WAR and advanced defensive metrics work, and the state of public sabermetrics (32:30). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Zach Kram to discuss the St. Louis Cardinals, who are resurgent under new manager Mike Shildt, and their exciting rookie center fielder Harrison Bader (1:20). Then Little League World Series superfan Mark Titus joins the show to discuss the action in Williamsport (22:10) before Ben Lindbergh closes the episode with a look at how the much-discussed all-or-nothing approach to team building has affected the MLB pennant races (36:18). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann talks to Zach Kram about the surprisingly crowded NL West race, then goes over the highlights and disappointments of the Players Weekend nicknames and uniforms with Sean Yoo. Finally, Ben Lindbergh joins the show to break down where the AL West race stands in the aftermath of Seattle's sweep of the Astros. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Bill Simmons, Zach Kram, and Ben Lindbergh to discuss all the action from a frenetic last day before MLB's non-waiver trade deadline. They talk about the Baltimore Orioles' two-week teardown, Chris Archer's trade to the Pirates, the balance of power between the two leagues, and how the day's transactions will shape the pennant race. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Mets are having an exciting couple of weeks, so this week's show is a Metstravaganza. Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann brings on Zach Kram to talk about the recent Jeurys Familia trade and the potential Jacob deGrom trade (02:00). Editor-in-chief Sean Fennessey explains what the Wilpon ownership group is doing wrong, and what it's like to root for a team that can't get out of its own way (19:30). Finally, Ben Lindbergh speculates on where the franchise might head from here, and when the Mets might be competitive again (42:30). Hosted by: Michael Baumann, Zach Kram, Sean Fennessey and Ben Lindbergh Produced by: Jim Cunningham Brought to you by: The Ringer Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann discusses the latest Manny Machado–to-the-Dodgers rumors with Zach Kram (02:00), then talks to Robert Mays about his beloved Chicago Cubs (21:30). Then Ben Lindbergh breaks down the ignoble end to Mike Matheny's tenure in St. Louis, with home run derby chat scattered throughout (36:00). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Zach Kram to discuss the All-Star rosters, including the snub of Rays lefty Blake Snell, and find out what works and what doesn't in the Midsummer Classic (01:00). Then Ben Lindbergh joins the podcast for a spirited conversation about the two worst teams in MLB, the Royals and Orioles, and how Baltimore ought to handle trade speculation about free-agent-to-be Manny Machado (23:00). Hosted by: Michael Baumann, Zach Kram, and Ben Lindbergh Produced by: Jim Cunningham Brought to you by: The Ringer Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ringer staff writer Michael Baumann is joined by Zach Kram to discuss the Washington Nationals' brutal June and the Oakland Athletics' chances of breaking into the AL playoff race (01:15). Then Megan Schuster comes on the pod to talk about our staff's favorite player: Twins rookie utilityman Willians Astudillo (18:10). Finally, Ben Lindbergh explains why the Colorado Rockies just demoted their Opening Day starter, and how that demotion is even weirder than it looks (27:47). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Ringer's Zach Kram talks to Michael Baumann about trade deadline possibilities around the league (01:30) before "The Chief" Craig Gaines joins the show to discuss Matt Kemp and the resurgent Dodgers (19:00). Then, Ben Lindbergh discusses the Cleveland Indians' hold on the AL Central (36:30). Credits: Hosted by: Zach Kram, Michael Baumann, Craig Gaines, and Ben Lindbergh Produced by: Jim Cunningham Brought to you by: The Ringer Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices