Buster and producer Taylor discuss the Angelos family selling the Baltimore Orioles and if the new ownership group will start making moves for the upcoming season. Then, Hembo on the first moves he would make as Baltimore's new ownership, and the Red Sox and Blue Jays' offseasons. Later, Sarah Langs is pro-pitch clock after its first year -- and she has numbers to explain why! 6:36 The Angelos family sells the Orioles 15:29 Hembo 34:03 Sarah Langs 42:11 #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eduardo Pérez and Buster discuss the 2024 Hall of Fame class of Adrián Beltré, Joe Mauer and Todd Helton. Plus, they lookahead to next year’s class, and Eduardo asks Buster if Yadíer Molina a first-ballot Hall of Famer. Then, Charlie Culberson details his transition from infielder to pitcher this offseason, and which superstar told Culberson he’s dying to take the mound. Then, Sarah Langs has a stat for each of the new Hall of Famers. Finally, Hembo on Rhys Hoskins signing with the Brewers, why the Dodgers signing James Paxton proves baseball is awash in money, if Josh Hader to the Astros is the biggest non-Shohei Ohtani move this offseason, and the Angels’ science experiment of culture. 8:43 Eduardo Pérez 36:54 Charlie Culberson 52:14 Sarah Langs 1:01:33 Hembo 1:15:58 #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss the Cubs signing Shōta Imanaga, why Tim doesn’t think the Cubs are done, Jordan Montgomery making a ton of sense for the Red Sox, if they can make anything of the Giants signing Jordan Hicks, the Mets flying under the radar, their Blake Snell confusion, and Andrew Jones gathering momentum on the Hall of Fame ballot. Then, Hembo on the Hall of Fame cases for Bill Wagner, Chase Utley and Gary Sheffield. Later, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game with notes on her favorite right fielders.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster discuss Teoscar Hernández signing with the Dodgers, potential cracks in the Dodgers’ roster, Buster’s bold prediction for the Red Sox, and why Hembo would do anything necessary to secure Dylan Cease. Then, Sarah Langs on why Adrián Beltré should be a unanimous selection to the Hall of Fame, Adley Rutschman’s impressive first two seasons, Francisco Lindor’s 4.5 WAR, if Bobby Witt Jr. will have another 30/30 season. Later, Jake Peavy talks about why he believes the Orioles should move on Cease, Peter Seidler winning over the fans in San Diego, Beltré, and learning from Tony Gwynn’s broadcasts. 7:37 Hembo 21:13 Sarah Langs 30:40 Jake Peavy 52:49 #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster discuss the Braves trading for Chris Sale, Lucas Giolito signing with the Red Sox, which teams are having the worst offseasons, the Blue Jays’ defensive signings, if Toronto should sign Joey Votto, and a bevy of New Year’s resolutions. Then, Sarah Langs talks about Kodi Senga’s ghost fork pitch, Blake Snell’s absurd ERA, Spencer Strider’s strike out rate, and if Jacob deGrom is a Hall of Fame pitcher. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster discuss Yoshinobu Yamamoto heading to the Dodgers, Yamamoto's $325 million contract, and how Shohei Ohtani and Yamamoto being together in Los Angeles impacts the game of baseball. Then, they discuss how the huge deals the Dodgers have made in the offseason impact smaller market teams and if it is doomsday for Giants fans. Plus, they discuss which team suffers the most, with Yamamoto headed to the Dodgers.  3:09 Hembo Join 24:30 Bleacher Tweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster celebrate Hembo’s $701 million contract at ESPN, before Hembo peppers Buster with questions about Shohei Ohtani, if Jordan Montgomery or Blake Snell will get a bigger contract, the next Padres to be dealt, the biggest fish the Red Sox could reel in, Tyler Glasnow being dealt to the Dodgers, Pete Alonso’s future with the Mets, and Juan Soto’s defense. Then, Didi Gregorius stops by to talk about how he’s giving back to the community in Curaçao, watching Corey Seager, how getting booed in New York as a rookie improved his play, reaching out to Anthony Volpe, his advice for Juan Soto and what’s next for him in baseball. 7:11 Hembo 27:31 Didi Gregorius 35:45 #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Passan and Buster discuss Shohei Ohtani signing with the Dodgers, if it really is a $700 million contract, how much money will be deferred, if Ohtani was going to the Dodgers all along, feeling bad for the Blue Jays, and the madness of trying to report the Ohtani story. Then, Hembo on nailing his January 2023 prediction of Ohtani’s valuation, how Ohtani has already earned some of his contract, what Ohtani’s signing means for baseball, and if Dave Roberts should bat Ohtani first on Opening Day. Later, Sarah Langs on exciting trio of Ohtani, Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts at the top of the Dodgers’ lineup. 5:27 Jeff Passan 33:38 Hembo 46:25 Sarah Langs 56:29 Buster & Friends on the wild weekend 1:01:39 #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster hop into the pod for an EMERGENCY edition of the show following Juan Soto bring traded from the Padres to the Yankees. Plus, the guys discuss Diamondbacks signing Eduardo Rodriguez, if the Orioles actually bolstered their bullpen with Craig Kimbrel and which team needs Shohei Ohtani the most right now. Then, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game with a raft of Soto numbers. 4:34 Karl Ravech 36:53 Sarah Langs 44:53 #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss free agency at a stand-still until the big pieces are off the board, Shohei Ohtani’s paranoia, the Yankees under pressure, David Stearns being unbothered by the heat in New York, and the expectations for the Orioles in free agency. Then, Hembo explains why the Yankees should not pursue Juan Soto, why Baltimore should trade for Corbin Burnes, and why he’d be reluctant to give up anything valuable for Tyler Glasnow. Later, Sarah Langs has thoughts on the College Football Playoff (not really), and she plays The Numbers Game. 5:52 Tim Kurkjian 30:53 Hembo 49:38 Sarah Langs 58:01 #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster daydream about putting Shohei Ohtani in different lineups, discuss the intrigue around the Hall of Fame special committee, and why he’s down on St. Louis’ free agent haul. Then, Jake Peavy stops by to talk about baseball’s deep roots in Mobile, Ala., hanging out with Willie Mays, why he’s all in on Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and the need to hear more from Shohei Ohtani. Next, St. Louse Post-Dispatch’s Derrick Goold on Cardinals signing Sonny Gray, addressing a major weakness from last season, Lance Lynn’s fast ball, St. Louis shying away from trades and what else they still need. Later, Sarah Langs on Alex Bregman and Corbin Burnes trade rumors. 3:52 Hembo 21:46 Jake Peavy 37:53 Derrick Goold 50:50 Sarah Langs 1:01:02 #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster discuss Hembo’s Gerrit Cole trade proposal, his prediction as to where Yoshinobu Yamamoto will land and who will sign Sonny Gray. Then, Karl Ravech stops by to talk about Aaron Nola re-signing with the Phillies, Ron Washington managing the Angels, the Dodgers and Red Sox under enormous pressure, and the Blue Jays trying to offload Alek Manoah. Later, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game. 7:17 Hembo 22:41 Karl Ravech 44:24 Sarah Langs 49:25 #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster discuss Craig Counsell’s record-setting deal, how to calculate the value of managers, if Counsell’s contract will be a watershed moment for managers, and if the Brewers will go into tank mode. Then, Eduardo Pérez talks about Cubs-Rangers Opening Day on ESPN, and all of the other manager moves this offseason. Later, Sarah Langs on watching Titans of the Caribbean at Citi Field, both Rookies of the Year winning unanimously, and her predictions for Manger of the Year.  4:54 Hembo 19:20 Eduardo Pérez 37:58 Sarah Langs 46:11 #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

World Series champion Travis Jankowski and Buster discuss the victory parade, Eduardo Pérez predicting Jankowski would have a big moment, Adolis Garía’s postseason run, the fire lit under the team after losing the division, the moment he felt like they were going to the World Series, being on the fringe of the roster in Spring Training, and how often he’ll wear his championship ring. Then, David Schoenfield talks landing spots for the premiere free agents and which teams are under the most pressure. Then, Sarah Langs on Cy Young and MVP winners becoming immediate free agents. Later, Todd Radom has one last quiz. Finally, Bart Giamatti reads “The Green Fields of the Mind.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster, Jessica Mendoza, and Eduardo Pérez react to the Texas Rangers winning the 2023 World Series from the Clown Car. They discuss Corey Seager breaking the game open, if the bullpen ever was a real weakness for Texas, Arizona’s foundation for the future, Zac Gallen throwing a gem, Chris Young’s vision for the Rangers, and a classic Bruce Bochy move with Josh Sborz. Then, Sarah Langs from the ballpark talks about Bochy being the greatest postseason manager of all time, the Rangers winning all six of Nathan Eovaldi’s postseason starts, and Texas winning Game 5 despite being no-hit through six innings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster recaps Game 4 of the World Series with Boog Sciambi, Jessica Mendoza, and Eduardo Pérez from the Clown Car. They discuss a disappointing bullpen game from the Diamondbacks, Eduardo’s Travis Jankowski prediction, if tonight’s scoreline matters to either team, and Arizona’s plan to stave off elimination. Then, Sarah Langs on chatting with Bruce Bochy before the game, Bochy’s record when his team has a chance to clinch, the Rangers hitting for the cycle in an inning, and Texas scoring 10 runs with two outs. Plus, Buster and Boog talk to MLB commissioner Rob Manfred about this year’s rule changes, the prominence of the starting pitcher, an idea for the top seeded playoff teams, ABS and possible expansion. 11:02 Clown Car Game 4 Recap 19:05 Buster & Boog with Rob Manfred 27:20 Sarah Langs 35:53 Boog with Corbin Carroll 41:58 #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster recaps Game 3 of the World Series with Boog Sciambi, Jessica Mendoza, and Eduardo Pérez from a car leaving Globe Life Field. They discuss Jon Gray coming up big, Corey Seager’s defense, the questions facing the Rangers in Game 4, if the Rangers’ potential injuries are overstated, Christian Walker’s unusual blunder on the bases, the bad strike call in the bottom of the ninth, and if there’s been any momentum in the series thus far. Then, Sarah Langs joins from the press box and shares the knowledge bomb she dropped on Mookie Betts before the game. Plus, her thoughts on the importance of winning Game 3, Texas’ ninth-straight road win, and Corey Seager’s home run.  10:33 Buster w/ Boog, Jess, Eduardo 27:15 Sarah Langs 36:19 #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Games 1 and 2 of the World Series including if there’s anything to discern from the first two games, the Diamondbacks’ remarkable running game, Buster predicting the Corey Seager home run, Adolis Garcia making adjustments during an at-bat, Merrill Kelly’s map to shut down the Texas lineup, how Bruce Bochy will manage Max Scherzer in Game 3, and a special story from Joey Votto about Dusty Baker. Then, Sarah Langs on talking to Bochy and Torey Lovullo before Game 2, Scherzer’s third World Series team, and Tommy Pham going 4-4. Plus, Nationals first base coach Eric Young on Corbin Carroll’s base running, the postseason format and, his desire to become a Major League manager.  6:32 Tim Kurkjian 30:44 Boog Sciambi with Mike Hazen 36:17 Sarah Langs 43:13 Eric Young 58:25 Buster with Luis Gonzalez 1:01:21 #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Boog Sciambi and Buster discuss their friend Dan Shulman being honored, what Boog sees in this World Series matchup, what’s changed about Diamondbacks, what role each manager will play, Boog’s time working with Dusty Baker, and the big Craig Counsell question. Then, Sarah Langs talks about Will Smith’s three straight World Series appearances, Bob Melvin managing three NL West teams and Dusty Baker spanning the baseball world. Later, Hembo on the three things Arizona need to do to upset Texas, World Series MVP bets, and Corey Seager and Marcus Semien reaching rarified air. Plus, Todd Radom has the Forgotten Field and the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A crestfallen Hembo and Buster discuss the Diamondbacks defeating the Phillies in the NLCS, the key to Arizona’s success, the defining moment in the series, how the Phillies can improve, and the Bruce Bochy effect. Then, Sarah Langs on the biggest underdogs to ever win the World Series. Later, Karl Ravech talks about the Red Sox naming Craig Breslow the new GM, Bob Melvin going to San Francisco, the Diamondbacks’ circle of trust, and a long winter ahead for Philadelphia. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Tim getting to his gate at the airport three hours early, the Rangers taking down the Astros in the ALCS, Adolis Garcia’s 15 RBI across the series, Bruce Bochy’s connection with his players, the lack of urgency from Houston, if this is the last time we see Dusty Baker managing, why Tim isn’t shocked Phillies-Diamondbacks is going seven, and the pressure on Philadelphia. Then, Sarah Langs talks about Bochy’s record in winner-take-all games, both LCS’s going seven, and her pick for Tuesday night. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Game 7 in the ALCS, Bob Melvin interviewing for the Giants job, Kim Ng turning down an interview with the Red Sox, Cristian Javier on the mound for Houston, if Jordan Montgomery will play a role, the pitching beneficiary of Adolis Garcia’s home run, and Arizona’s chances in Philadelphia. Then, Hembo on the clear and obvious answer to the Bryan Abreu situation, his key to Game 7, and if the Diamondbacks can get through the Phillies lineup once unscathed. Later, Sarah Langs talks about the lack of a home field advantage in Games 7s. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eduardo Pérez and Buster discuss the ALCS even at 2-2, what doesn’t make sense about José Altuve, José Abreu’s turnaround, Justin Verlander needing to land the slider, if Jordan Montgomery will find success against the Astros for the second time, and the Diamondbacks nearly giving away the game on the bases. Then, Sarah Langs talks about Brandon Pfaadt’s last dominant two starts, and neither home team claiming a lead yet in the ALCS. Later, Todd Radom shares his thoughts on Arizona’s uniforms and colors, regales us with the Forgotten Field, and administers the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss Ravy’s golf outing with Tim Kurkjian and Buck Showalter, Yordan Álvarez’s punishing performance, the X-factor for the Rangers, Corey Seager’s aggressiveness working against him, and the variable working against Max Scherzer. Next, Ravy’s conversation with Rangers GM Chris Young. Then, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game. Later, Jess Mendoza talks about how much fun she's having on Get Up, how the Phillies are on a heater, the impact of Kyle Schwarber at the top of the lineup, how Bruce Bochy should handle pitching to Álvarez, and her reaction to Kim Ng being pushed out in Miami. Plus, Damien Woody chimes in! 13:33 Karl Ravech 40:12 Karl Ravech with Rangers GM Chris Young 43:28 Sarah Langs 52:01 Jessica Mendoza 1:03:25 #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster discuss the Phillies going up 2-0 on the Diamondbacks in the NLCS, the Phillies all pulling in the same direction, Arizona’s pitching, and if the Astros can climb back into the ALCS. Then, ESPN.com MLB editor Rachel Ullrich stops by to talk about picking the Rangers to win the World Series at the trade deadline, what she liked about the team at the time, expectations for Max Scherzer’s return, Evan Carter, and Kim Ng. Later, Sarah Langs on how Dusty Baker should structure his lineup, the Phillies’ pitching and if the NLCS gets back to Philadelphia. 11:44 Hembo 26:20 Rachel Ullrich 36:03 Sarah Langs 46:06 #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Doug Glanville and Buster discuss the noise levels at Citizens Bank Park, the Phillies’ strategy against Zach Gallen, Bryce Harper living up to the hype at age 30, Framber Valdez not looking like himself, Bruce Bochy letting Nathan Eovaldi pitch through trouble, and Kim Ng enduring every test. Then, Sarah Langs on Zach Wheeler’s postseason starts, the streaking Rangers, and Harper’s birthday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss game one of the ALCS between the Rangers and Astros, Jordan Montgomery making himself a bunch of money going into free agency, how Montgomery handled Yordan Álvarez, Evan Carter changing everything for Texas, a bad matchup for Houston, not discounting the Diamondbacks, and Kim Ng opting out of her contract with the Marlins. Then, Giants pitcher Ross Stripling stops by to talk about Montgomery’s advantage over the Astros lineup, how he’d pitch to Corey Seager and Bryce Harper, Justin Verlander making adjustments, and scripted pitching plans. Later, Sarah Langs on the Texas leading throughout most of the playoffs, another shutout pitched by a Bruce Bochy playoff team, Evan Longoria’s last LCS trip, and Alyssa Nakken interviewing for the Giants’ job. 10:44 Tim Kurkjian 30:41 Ross Stripling 49:19 Sarah Langs 58:22 #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster discuss the Phillies defeating the Braves in the NLDS, the failings of Atlanta’s lineup in the postseason, if the Astros can contend with the depth of the Rangers’ lineup, and the playoff format. Then, Sarah Langs talks about the Phillies prevailing again against their division rivals, Nick Castellanos’ monster series and the battle of managerial experience in the ALCS. Later, Todd Radom has the Forgotten Franchise and the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss if Spencer Strider will put the team on his back in game four, Orlando Arcia talking trash and Bryce Harper responding, Los Angeles not having enough pitching, a coming out party for Corbin Carroll and Gabriel Moreno, the Astros’ 7th straight ALCS, and Dusty Baker vs. Bruce Bochy. Then, Alex Cora on if Dustin Pedroia deserves credit for Arizona’s playoff run, Mookie Betts taking the NLDS loss hard, Martín Maldonado’s command behind the plate, what he would change about the postseason, and how he avoids giving opposing teams bulletin board material. Later, Sarah Langs talks about the impact of Harper’s home runs, the regular season wins disparity between Diamondbacks and Dodgers, and Yordan Álvarez slugging the ball. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eduardo Pérez joins Buster to discuss the Rangers sweeping the Orioles and the Astros going up 2-1 on the Twins. Then, Peter Moylan stops by to talk about attending his first game as a fan, Braves-Phillies and Clayton Kershaw. Later, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game. 11:44 Eduardo Pérez 36:15 Peter Moylan 50:24 Sarah Langs 1:00:38 #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss what the Braves comeback win agains the Phillies says about Atlanta, Michael Harris II’s Ken Griffey Jr.-esque catch, the Diamondbacks’ fearlessness, the Rangers looking to close out the Orioles, and Carlos Correa fueling the Twins’ swagger. Then, Alex Avila talks about his kids asking if he’s famous, the lack of unknown for the Diamondbacks facing the Dodgers, how the Phillies pitched to Austin Riley, Harris’ fence awareness, and Justin Verlander vying for 300 wins. Later, Sarah Langs has much more on the end of Braves-Phillies, and Baltimore on the verge of being swept for the first time since 2022. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Boog Sciambi and Buster discuss Bryce Harper continuing to deliver as one of the most compelling players in baseball, Zack Wheeler vs. Max Fried, if the Dodgers have enough outs in their pitching staff, two ugly games for the Orioles, Bruce Bochy’s handling of Cody Bradford, and pitching scripts. Then, Sarah Langs on Carlos Correa turning up in Houston, Pablo Lopez’s otherworldly run, the Phillies shutting out the Braves in game one, the young Diamondbacks getting it done, if the Twins won the Luis Arráez-Lopez trade, and her anxiety watching Clayton Kershaw in the postseason. 15:22 Boog Sciambi 44:48 Sarah Langs 59:26 #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Doug Glanville and Buster discuss if there’s something else going on with Billy Eppler’s resignation and MLB investigation, the Division Series favorite that’s most in jeopardy, Dave Roberts being comfortable with his pitching options, Ronald Acuña Jr. wants to put his stamp on this postseason, the AL team under the most pressure and Doug’s picks for each series. Then, Sarah Langs on postseason trends, Justin Verlander and Clayton Kershaw’s game one starts, an impossible question from Buster, and the biggest star in this round. Later, Todd Radom on the college football crowd in Philadelphia, the Forgotten Field and the weekly quiz. 5:49 Doug Glanville 29:42 Sarah Langs 39:02 Todd Radom 53:05 #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Passan and Buster convene on a Baggage Claim Thursday to discuss the most soaked they’ve ever been in a winning locker room, their theories for why all the Wild Card series ended in sweeps, John Schneider pulling José Berríos, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. underachieving, falling pretty to recency bias with the Phillies, if Craig Counsell returns to the Brewers, and another postseason exit for the Rays. Then, Sarah Langs on her ideal locker room celebration drink, the Diamondbacks coming back in both games to sweep, Philadelphia’s home field advantage, and Bruce Bochy notching another postseason series win. 18:43 Jeff Passan 39:13 Sarah Langs 47:35 #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Schoenfield and Buster discuss all action from the first day of the wild card round and overreact to the outcomes. Then, Xavier Scruggs and Buster indulge in a game of “I Played and You Didn’t.” Later, Sarah Langs on Nick Castellanos’ celebration, Royce Lewis, Zack Wheeler and the Diamondbacks. 15:40 - David Schoenfield 27:49 - Xavier Scruggs 37:38 - Sarah Langs 47:01 - #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss the Wild Card series including the potential danger the Marlins pose to the Phillies, if Brewers can hold up against the Diamondbacks without Brandon Woodruff, if injuries even matter for the Rays against the Rangers, and if the Twins can buck their playoff struggles against the underachieving Blue Jays. Plus, David Stearns declares the Mets will hang onto Pete Alonso. Then, Hembo has a conspiracy theory and his favorite stats from each postseason series. 9:27 - Karl Ravech 34:14 - Hembo 47:59 - #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss the passing of Tim Wakefield, Buck Showalter announcing his own firing, Joey Votto getting tossed in his final game, the Astros winning the AL West, the Cubs’ collapse, Cal Raleigh calling out the Mariners front office and Tim's World Series pick. Then, Sarah Langs on the Giants firing Gabe Kapler, the 2021 100-game losers now in the postseason, the Dodgers’ consecutive 100-game seasons, and the Braves dramatically tying the single-season home run record. Later, Tigers manager, A.J. Hinch on Miguel Cabrera’s final weekend in the big leagues, and his thoughts on whether a first-round bye is an advantage. 8:38 - Tim Kurkjian 27:04 - Sarah Langs 37:04 - A.J. Hinch 48:22 - #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss the Orioles winning the AL East, Bryce Harper being ejected after a bad call, the kid that caught Harper’s helmet, the Marlins swimming in Citi Field, the Cubs’ collapse, the AL Wild Card race and Curt Schilling revealing personal information on his podcast. Then, Sarah Langs on Baltimore winning 100 games, another stellar outing from Gerrit Cole and Miguel Cabrera. Later, Todd Radom has the Forgotten Field and the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster and Hembo discuss the passing of the legendary Brooks Robinson, the greatness of Terry Francona, and Atlanta's pitching woes. Then, Stephen A. Smith describes the aftermath of his failed first pitch at Yankee Stadium last week. Alden Gonzalez joins to talk about the chances that Mike Trout gets traded and what a massive payroll reduction for the Padres would look like. Finally, Tim Keown joins to discuss his reporting on the failed negotiations between the A's and the city of Oakland.  [13:52] Paul Hembekides   [24:18] Stephen A. Smith   [33:32] Alden Gonzalez   [48:27] Tim Keown   [1:03:43] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss where Tim’s NL MVP vote lies with a week left in the season, the Rangers looking like they can win the AL West, if the Astros have grown bored of the regular season, the Rays’ mounting injuries, concern in the Orioles’ bullpen, the Braves’ starting pitching woes and Tim’s response to Stephen A.’s jab. Then, Sarah Langs on Joey Votto’s curtain calls, Michael Lorenzen earning a save, the Pirates’ comeback win and which team will represent the AL in the World Series. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster get into Stephen A. Smith calling out Buster and Tim Kurkjian, and then bouncing his first pitch at Yankee Stadium. Plus, the guys discuss the Phillies clinching a playoff spot, the virtual tie in the AL West, the schedule hammering the Mariners and Tommy Pham’s thoughts on the Mets position players. Then, Sarah Langs talks about Gerrit Cole ending the AL Cy Young race, the very small chance the Padres sneak into the playoffs, Corbin Carroll’s 25 home runs and 50 stolen bases, and the coming Seattle-Texas steel cage match. Next, Todd Radom has thoughts on expansion, the Forgotten Field and the quiz. Later, the American Sports Medicine Institute’s research director Dr. Glenn Fleisig stops by to examine the barrage of injuries in baseball, the correlation he sees between the rise and velocity and injuries, and why he’s confident MLB will get a handle on this problem. [9:26] Karl Ravech [24:29] Sarah Langs [32:31] Todd Radom [44:54] Dr. Glenn Fleisig [58:49] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Schoenfield and Buster discuss the agreement for a new stadium in Tampa, possible expansion, the Astros sliding, and the NL Wild Card Race. Then Hembo weighs in on the NL Cy Young race and discusses the impact of Adam Wainwright's 200th win. Jessica Mendoza and Buster chat about the Dodgers rotation, how much Clayton Kershaw has left, and whether or not Blake Snell has wrapped up the NL Cy Young. Finally, Eduardo Perez and Buster talk about the Blue Jays hitting their stride after being left for dead last week, how Shohei Ohtani's health will impact his free agency, and the NL Wild Card race.   [11:47] Dave Schoenfield   [22:19] Paul Hembekides   [37:02] Jessica Mendoza   [50:50] Eduardo Perez   [1:04:45] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster talk about the passing of Tim’s brother Matt, and how they shared baseball. Then, the guys get into the Diamondbacks playing the game differently, the Cubs needing to straighten themselves out, the Marlins coming to life and the Orioles clinching a playoff spot. Then, Sarah Langs on Clayton Kershaw leading the NL West-winning Dodgers in innings pitched, Royce Lewis’ grand slams and Shohei Ohtani missing the final 25 games of the season. Plus, Boog Sciambi talks to Nico Hoerner. [11:22] Tim Kurkjian [31:07] Sarah Langs [40:18] Boog Sciambi w/ Nico Hoerner [43:25] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss Boston firing Chaim Bloom, the Wild Card scrap between the Cubs and Diamondbacks on Sunday Night Baseball, the Rangers finishing off the Blue Jays, and a big series in the AL East. Then, Todd Radom shares his thoughts Bloom’s firing and what’s next for the Red Sox. Plus, Todd has the Forgotten Field and the weekly quiz. Later, Sarah Langs on the home run differential between the Braves and Dodgers, Corbin Carroll, and Blake Snell’s last 20 starts. [9:50] Karl Ravech [18:39] Todd Radom [35:42] Sarah Langs [45:59] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

USA Today’s Bob Nightengale and Buster discuss, Max Scherzer’s injury, which team Bob thinks the Rangers edge out of the playoffs, the Mets hiring David Stearns, what’s next for the Padres, where Bob Melvin lands if he’s out in San Diego, why he thinks the Brewers could upset the Braves in the postseason and Alek Manoah not showing up to AAA. Then, Orioles broadcaster Ben McDonald stops by to share the most dangerous animal he could catch with his hands, how surprised he is at Baltimore potentially winning 100 games, what worries him come playoff time and his thoughts on George Kirby. [9:46] Bob Nightengale [24:26] Ben McDonald [39:41] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Boog Sciambi and Buster discuss the Giants looking improved as the year winds down, the gap between the Braves, Dodgers and everyone else, Gabriel Moreno as the key to the Diamondback defense, George Kirby’s rough weekend and David Wells going full “get off my lawn” on Old Timer’s Day. Then Sarah Langs talks about Jasson Dominguez’s injury and the two wildest games of the weekend. Plus, ESPN Radio interviews with Dansby Swanson and JD Davis. And, David Cone with John Brebbia on Sunday Night Baseball. [11:54] Boog Sciambi [30:22] Boog with Dansby Swanson [33:53] Sarah Langs [46:45] David Cone with John Brebbia [47:46] J.D. Davis with Roxy Berstein [54:16] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss the Giants making another appearance on Sunday Night Baseball, Gerrit Cole separating himself in the AL Cy Young, the continuing NL MVP debate, if Shohei Ohtani is still the AL MVP and a potential Mariners-Rays playoff series. Then, Sarah Langs on Teoscar Hernandez’s hit streak, the Astros becoming the team we expected, Brenton Doyle’s cannon arm and Ronald Acuña Jr.’s two-home run game. Later, Todd Radom makes it clear he doesn’t care if the Red Sox finish last in the AL East, shares the Forgotten Field and administers the weekly quiz. [7:55] Karl Ravech [35:38] Sarah Langs [47:14] Todd Radom [57:19] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster discuss an Eduardo’s memory of playing in the Cal Ripken’s 2131 game, Buster’s interview with Malcolm, the Astros looking like the team to beat in the AL West, a potential Phillies-Cubs playoff series and Anthony Rendon hiding from the media. Then, Hembo stops by to talk about the likely demise of the Dodgers’ World Series hopes, the best managers in the league, the Cubs’ well-rounded offense, if the Mets should trade Pete Alonso and the double standard for Shohei Ohtani. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Schoenfield and Buster discuss the AL West, the Rangers’ bullpen meltdown against the Astros, Julio Urías being charged with felony domestic violence, Ronald Acuña Jr. and the Braves besting the Dodgers, Shohei Ohtani’s agent speaking in vagaries and Jasson Domínguez injecting life into the Yankees. Sarah Langs talks to Buster about his interview with “Asteroids” fan Malcolm, Julio Rodriguez with back-to-back 25-25 seasons to start his career, Royce Lewis’ penchant for hitting grand slams and Acuña with one of the hardest hit home runs ever. Plus, Buster’s interview with “Asteroid” fan Malcolm from Sunday Night Baseball. [9:06] Dave Schoenfield [29:10] Interview with Malcolm from Sunday Night Baseball [31:22] Sarah Langs [41:56] Dave Jageler with Anothy Volpe on ESPN Radio [44:53] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss the Astros’ confidence, the Yankees taking a new book off the shelf, waiver claim chaos and the White Sox hiring Chris Getz to run the team. Then, Guardians president of baseball ops Chris Antonetti talks about picking up three former Angel pitchers off the waiver wire, his thought process behind the additions, what he sees in Lucas Giolito, how he feels about teams dumping players to save money at the end of the season, the waiver wire rules and what he sees in his team with a month left to play. Later, Sarah Langs on the NL MVP race playing out in real-time with the Braves playing the Dodgers, and the tight AL West race. Plus, Todd Radom shares the Forgotten Field and administers the weekly quiz. [7:17] Karl Ravech [33:11] Chris Antonetti [43:49] Sarah Langs [55:35] Todd Radom [1:08:18] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mariners GM Jerry Dipoto and Buster discuss Seattle’s turnaround, his thought process around the trade deadline, Julio Rodríguez alleviating his internal pressure, J.P. Crawford’s importance to the clubhouse and the team believing they can compete with the Astros. Then, Hembo returns to talk about the Angels dumping their trade acquisitions and if MLB should do anything about similar moves in the future, who he thinks will win the NL MVP, the Yankees’ organizational review, and his top-three World Series contenders. Later, the Orange County Register’s Jeff Fletcher on on Shohei Ohtani’s lack of media availability, his free agency value and if Ohtani already knows where he wants to play next season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss the Mariners taking first place in the AL West, Felix Bautista going down, the confusing timeline around Shohei Ohtani’s injury, the Braves’ confidence and Mookie Betts’ returning to Fenway Park. Then, Sarah Langs on seeing Ohtani at Citi Field, another amazing throw from Elly de La Cruz, another Julio Rodríguez stat and Alex Vertigo’s leadoff home runs. Plus, ESPN Radio interviews with Austin Riley, Paul DeJong and Gabe Kapler. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Boog Sciambi and Buster discuss Sunday Night Baseball between the Dodgers and Giants, getting to know the Cubs locally, the NL wild card race, and the Mets retiring Dwight Gooden and Darryl Strawberry’s numbers — before arguing with Jeff Passan to close the segment. Then, Passan and Buster talk about Shohei Ohtani tearing his UCL, if he’ll get Tommy John surgery, and an update on Jeff’s back. Then, Sarah Langs shares her reaction to Ohtani’s injury, closes the book on Ohtani’s pitching this season, and has numbers on Paul DeJong and Zack Gelof. Later, Todd Radom with the Forgotten Field and administers the weekly quiz. [11:26] Boog Sciambi [24:13] Jeff Passan [39:05] Sarah Langs [47:06] Todd Radom [57:31] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss the White Sox firing Rick Hahn and Ken Williams, the Rays scrubbing Wander Franco from the ballpark, if this is Tito Francona's last ride, and the Yankees hit another low point. Then, Buster and the gang discuss The New York Times piece on John Angelos and offer some pushback. [12:13] Tim Kurkjian [25:23] NYT John Angelos Piece [33:27] Big leaguers' questions and advice for little leaguers [35:00] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Tim Kurkjian share their thoughts on another edition of the Little League World Series from Williamsport. Then, Sarah Langs stops by to discuss Julío Rodriguez’s ridiculous weekend, Gunnar Henderson’s four extra-base hits, Mookie Betts mashing leadoff home runs, Luis Urías’ grand slams, milestones for Max Scherzer and José Altuve, and the Yankees losing eight-straight. [7:20] Karl Ravech [23:14] Sarah Langs [37:34] Roxy Bernstein with Trea Turner [41:07] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tampa Bay Times’ Marc Topkin and Buster discuss the difference between the Rays now and at the beginning of the season, the latest on Wander Franco, and the state of the rotation. Then, Karl Ravech and Buster talk about what’s stood out in the Little League World Series so far, the Nationals and the Mets duking it out in the bottom of the NL East, the Yankees falling into the abyss, the Dodgers winning 11 straight, and if Justin Verlander can win 300 games. Plus, Sarah Langs on Julio Rodríguez and Bobby Witt Jr. blossoming, the Braves’ home run tally, and the Orioles’ sweep-less streak. Later, Todd Radom delivers the Forgotten Field and administers the quiz. [7:42] Marc Topkin [16:59] Karl Ravech [43:25] Sarah Langs [52:45] Todd Radom [1:03:27] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Schoenfield and Buster discuss a fan naming his daughter after Mookie Betts, if the Yankees are officially dead, the Mariners saving their season, the most dangerous wild card teams, the Rays’ mounting woes and the Dodgers looking like a different team. [11:03] David Schoenfield [34:18] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs takes over the podcast with a special edition of the Numbers Game, sharing her top three ‘baseball is the best’ moments from the weekend. Next, Tim Kurkjian hops on discussing the young talent for the Orioles, the competitive race for the America League, if the Marlins can make the playoffs, and if the Dodgers can take on the Braves. Then, Nathalie Alonso joins the show to share her favorite moments from Fernando Valenzuela being honored by the Dodgers this weekend and the impact of Fernandomania. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech joins Buster to discuss Kevin Brown's return to the Orioles' broadcast, Max Scherzer’s comments about the Mets’ vision for 2024, and analyze potential landing spots for the top free agents. Then, Sarah Langs joins to discuss if the Phillies are the biggest threat to the Braves in the NL East, front runners for the Cy Young award, and she plays the Numbers Game. Plus, Todd Radom joins for this week’s forgotten field and administers the weekly quiz.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Glenn Clark joins Buster to discuss the mess Orioles owner John Angelos created by suspending broadcaster Kevin Brown, the reaction to the drama locally and the college baseball-vibe to the team. Then, Jesse Rogers on the White Sox's dysfunctional culture, the impact of Shane McClanahan's injury, an open window for the Mariners, the Astros' mission and Aaron Boone's ejection on Tuesday. [11:14.317] Announcers around the league respond to Kevin Brown's suspension [13:51.067] Glenn Clark [33:00.307] Jesse Rogers [46:03.643] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss the fisticuffs exchanged between Tim Anderson and José Ramírez, the White Sox in disarray, Joe Musgrove’s shoulder, Josh Jung’s broken thumb, if the Dodgers can slug their way to a title, the surging Cubs, the Angels living out their worst case scenario, no one paying attention to the Mariners, and Tim’s out of Diet Mountain Dew. Then, Guardians’ play-by-play man Tom Hamilton gives his perspective on what went down between Anderson and Ramírez. Then, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game. And, listen to Karl Ravech’s full conversation with BFFs Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts. [11:58] Tim Kurkjian [35:53] Tom Hamilton [49:41] Sarah Langs [57:13] Karl Ravech with Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts [1:09:11] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Xavier Scruggs and Buster lead off discussing which starting pitcher on a new team impressed the most in their Thursday debut. Plus, the team to beat post-trade deadline and the Braves’ suffocating offense. Then, Sarah Langs on updating her favorite Shohei Ohtani stat, Ryan Mountcastle blasting the Blue Jays and her NL MVP ballot. Later, Karl Ravech talks about what’s at stake between the Padres and Dodgers this weekend, the Angels’ litmus test, if the Dodgers can out-hit their pitching matchups, big injuries and the biggest problem for the Phillies right now. [12:45] Xavier Scruggs [27:33] Sarah Langs [40:10] Sound from Justin Verlander in Houston [43:35] Karl Ravech [1:04:48] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian, Rachel Ullrich and Buster breakdown all the moves (or lack of) at the trade deadline. They discuss the Astros being the clear winner acquiring Justin Verlander, the Mets’ selloff, the Blue Jays making moves, the Eduardo Rodriguez trade falling through and more. Then, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game, shares which teams she gives rave reviews and ponders tomorrow’s inevitable sports talk radio meltdowns. Later, a bet is paid off during #BleacherTweets. [0:00] Buster with Tim Kurkjian & Rachel Ullrich [23:38.817] Rundown of all the trades made [27:03.547] Sarah Langs [39:53.540] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eduardo Pérez, Melanie Newman and Buster chat after Sunday Night Baseball at Camden Yards about the Orioles taking the season series against the Yankees, the confusion around Aaron Judge’s playing time, the Rangers trading for Max Scherzer and the Cubs deciding to make a playoff push. Then, Todd Radom delivers the Forgotten Field, and the gang plays a round of trivia with high stakes. Later, #BleacherTweets features questions from the actual bleachers and a sampling of Yankee fans declaring whether the team should buy or sell. [12:30] Eduardo Pérez and Melanie Newman [29:03] Todd Radom and a special edition of the quiz [38:27] #BleacherTweets from the literal bleachers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss the Angels’ decision to keep Shohei Ohtani and trade for Lucas Giolito, Aaron Judge possibly returning against the Orioles, if the White Sox will continue the sell-off, why the Mets should keep Justin Verlander, and everyone waiting on the Cubs. Then, Sarah Langs with a Shohei Ohtani-themed Numbers Game after pitching a shutout and hitting two home runs in a doubleheader. Next, SportsCenter anchor Kevin Neghandi stops by to settle some family business. Later, Todd Radom chats with architect and urban planner Janet Marie Smith about if she ever gets tired of talking about Camden Yards, the goal with incorporating the warehouse, working with Frank Robinson on the outfield dimensions and the future of ballpark designs. [11:24] Karl Ravech [29:53] Sarah Langs [37:33] Kevin Negandhi [49:38] Todd Radom and Janet Marie Smith [1:08:10] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster starts the show sharing what he’s hearing with less than a week before the trade deadline. Then, Buster and David Schoenfield discuss the lack of polarity in the standings, the Red Sox trading Kiké Hernandez to the Dodgers, Aaron Judge possibly returning this weekend, the starting pitcher market and why the White Sox should blow it up. Later, Eduardo Pérez on how Boston is gaining momentum, the Angels hanging on an edge and if Houston will make a big move for a pitcher.  [12:12] Buster's traded deadline update [13:35] David Schoenfield [31:00] Eduardo Pérez [46:49] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Tim’s time in Cooperstown for the Hall of Fame inductions, Rafael Devers’ reaction to the Red Sox’s contract offer, the Angels hanging on the fringe of the playoff picture, if the Rays are the team to watch in the Shohei Ohtani scuttle, why the Mets officially sellers, the Red Sox looking sharp and a measured deadline appearing likely for the Orioles. Then, sound for from Fred McGrif and Scott Rolen’s Hall of Fame speeches. Next, Sarah Langs on the Mark Canha’s three outfield assists, Sal Frelick’s three-hit debut, Ohtani’s 36 home runs and Rafael Devers mic’d up for Sunday Night Baseball. Later, Boog Sciambi talks to Francisco Lindor. [14:57] [43:37] [46:31] [59:53] [1:03:07] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Schoenfield and Buster discuss the Orioles grabbing first place from the Rays for the first time this season. Plus, they go rapid-fire buy-or-sell on Tampa Bay, the Red Sox, Astros, Mariners, Mets, Yankees and Angels. Then, Sarah Langs on Baltimore’s streak of staving off sweeps, Elly de La Cruz’s 99 mph assist and 10 teams scoring 10 or more runs on Tuesday. Later, Todd Radom has the Forgotten Field and administers the quiz. [13:38] David Schoenfield [26:51] Sarah Langs [35:59] Todd Radom [48:23] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alden Gonzalez and Buster discuss Alden talking to Julio Rodríguez’s dad during the Home Run Derby, Aaron Boone getting chippy in his postgame press conference, the Yankees needing help at the plate, if Alden thinks Shohei Ohtani will be traded and Angels’ investment in this year’s team. The, Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts stops by to talk about surprises him the most about Ohtani, the balanced schedule giving this season a different feel, updates on Clayton Kershaw and Walker Buehler, how players handle the trade deadline, and his conversations with Dusty Baker. [16:09] Alden Gonzalez [35:43] Dave Roberts [46:12] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech joins Buster on the go for today’s Baggage Claim Monday discussing the nonstop trade rumors with Shohei Ohtani, if the Angels should trade him, and what teams could acquire Ohtani. Plus, they play a rapid-fire game of buy, sell, or hold with teams for this trade deadline. Then, check out an interview with Roxy Bernstein and Michael Moustakas of the Angels. Later, Sarah Langs joins the podcast to play the Numbers Game and discuss possible landing spots for Cody Bellinger.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s episode is sponsor by our friends at Grainger. David Schoenfield and Buster discuss which NL division leader is most vulnerable, which non-first place team is the most dangerous and which contender is most in need of a big move. Then, Sarah Langs on how she would deal with Shohei Ohtani if she owned the Angels, Ohtani ranking first in three huge statistical categories, Luis Arráez and the Braves’ first half home runs. Later, Todd Radom shares his thoughts on the All-Star Game uniforms and the Yankees allowing advertising on their jerseys. Plus, the Forgotten Franchise and the quiz. [11:41] David Schoenfield [30:24]Sarah Langs [41:09] Buster with Elias Díaz [44:10] Todd Radom [1:00:22] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss the highlights from an exciting Home Run Derby including Vladimir Guerrero Jr. taking the crown, Adley Rutschman switches sides of the plate, the physical exertion of the Derby and their conversations with players on the field. Then, Sarah Langs on chatting with Julio Rodriguez and Gerrit Cole, Rodriguez’s 30-home run rounds and Randy Arozarena’s 82 home runs in a loss. Plus, Buster’s on-field interview with Rutschman, Karl and Eduardo Pérez’s conversation with Vlad, and Boog Sciambi with Cole and Zac Gallen. [10:46] Karl Ravech [35:53] Buster with Adley Rutschman [38:30] Karl and Eduardo Pérez with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. [39:00] Sarah Langs [47:14] Boog Sciambi with Gerrit Cole and Zac Gallen [53:06] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Jackson Holliday’s promotion to AA, why Tim still thinks the Rays will win the AL East, if the Orioles front office will make a move for a starting pitcher, Elly de la Cruz stealing three bases on two pitches, the Tigers’ combined no-hitter and the best story of the first half. Then, Jessica Mendoza on the All-Star Game showcasing the Pacific Northwest, the Pirates selecting Paul Skenes over Dylan Crews, the success of the new rules over the first half of the season, the NL West and if Mookie Betts is sandbagging his Home Run Derby chances. [9:02] Karl Ravech [31:38] Mike Couzens with Gunnar Henderson [34:09] Jessica Mendoza [53:24] Mike Couzens with Rocco Baldelli [56:33] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss the Home Run Derby matchups, Ravy’s Derby pick, the intrigue around this year’s MLB Draft, the “all-in” teams that could be players for Shohei Ohtani, Alek Manoah returning to the Blue Jays, Elly de la Cruz annoying Davey Martinez, and if the Cubs could trade Cody Bellinger and Marcus Stroman. Then, Sarah Langs on her day at Yankee Stadium as a HOPE Week honoree, Francisco Alvarez’s series against the Diamondbacks, the Braves’ offensive machine and who she would start for a Marlins playoff game. Later, Todd Radom shares this week’s Forgotten Field and administers the quiz. [10:41] Karl Ravech [32:32] Sarah Langs [47:26] Todd Radom [55:58] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yankees GM Brian Cashman joins Buster to discuss honoring Sarah Langs during New York’s HOPE Week, an update on Aaron Judge’s injury and his thoughts on the 2023 trade market. Then, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch’s Derrick Goold on all of the things that have gone wrong with the Cardinals, the lack of efficient pitching, Adam Wainwright’s injury, the Angels’ injury woes, if Anaheim should consider trading Shohei Ohtani and this year’s Home Run Derby field featuring the “Could’a Been Cardinals.”  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss which players he’s excited to see in the All-Star Game, the Braves’ entire infield making the roster, Wander Franco being snubbed, Pete Alonso announcing on Sunday Night Baseball that he’s defending his Home Run Derby title, is reports of the Mets demise might be premature and Patrick Bailey’s path to the majors. Then, Sarah Langs on who she wants in the Home Run Derby for the first time, Andrew Abbott’s swings-and-misses against the Padres, Clayton Kershaw’s tenth All-Star nod and the Braves’ first-inning runs. Plus, Boog Sciambi talks to J.D. Davis. [13:57] Tim Kurkjian [34:10] Sarah Langs [44:01] Boog Sciambi with J.D. Davis [48:50] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss Vlad Guerrero Jr. joining the Home Run Derby field, fans enjoying the rule changes, All-Star game starters, Domingo German’s perfect game, Steve Cohen nailing the press conference and Adam Wainwright needing words of affirmation. Next, Cubs GM Carter Hawkins stops by to talk about how a team decides whether to buy or sell at the deadline, how to prepare for both options and the current state of the trade market. Then, Sarah Langs on the unlikeliest perfect games, two rookies starting in the ASG and the Braves’ unique combination of ASG starters. Later, Todd Radom shares his thoughts on Pittsburgh’s City Connect uniforms, delivers the Forgotten Field and administers the quiz. [12:27] Karl Ravech [36:36] Cubs GM Carter Hawkins [50:52] Sarah Langs [1:02:27] Todd Radom [1:13:54] #BleacherTweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eduardo Pérez and Buster Olney discuss Mets needing to stay the course, the balanced schedule working against teams, the Padres struggling with timely hitting, the difference between Shohei Ohtani’s two home runs and Bo Naylor’s 360-degree throw out. Then, Jessica Mendoza on Mookie Betts’ wife pushing him into doing the Home Run Derby, J.D. Martinez reuniting with his old hitting coach in Los Angeles and if the Giants are for real.  [14:21] Eduardo Pérez [33:21] Jessica Mendoza [48:21] Bleacher Tweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joon Lee and Buster discuss the tightness in the Mets clubhouse, if New York should trade Max Scherzer or Justin Verlander, Perry Minasian trying everything to get the Angels in the playoffs, Mookie Betts’ larger responsibility participating in the Home Run Derby and Aaron Judge’s toe. Then, Sarah Langs stops by to talk about Eury Pérez’s incredible start, the Rockies winning a series with a -20 run differential and how a star like José Altuve is just like the rest of us. [10:58] Joon Lee [33:10] J.D. Martinez [40:48] Sarah Langs [54:51] Bleacher Tweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss LSU’s walk off home run to clinch a spot in the College World Series finals, the factors conspiring against the Astros and Dodgers, Rob Manfred trying to have it both ways with the sign-stealing scandal, and another bad call from replay review at home plate. Then, Sarah Langs on winning streaks around the league, Byron Buxton’s home runs on Thursday night, Shohei Ohtani with another double-digit strikeout game and Mookie Betts announcing he’ll be in the Home Run Derby. Later, Todd Radom shares the Forgotten Franchise and administers the weekly quiz. [10:51] Karl Ravech [37:25] Sarah Langs [49:39] Todd Radom [1:00:29] Bleacher Tweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Passan and Buster discuss replay review botching the end of Rangers-White Sox, the Angels publicly declaring they won’t trade Shohei Ohtani, Jeff’s impressions of the Reds and a dry trade market. The, Sarah Langs stops by to talk about covering the MLB draft, Giants’ never-say-die attitude, Clayton Kershaw’s scoreless starts and Corbin Carrol’s OPS. Later, Adam Duvall on living with diabetes, how it affects his baseball preparation, the Red Sox putting things together and how often he wears his championship ring. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Boog Sciambi and Buster discuss the lack of an obvious NL Central winner, Buster’s theory on the St. Louis, David Freese declining the Cardinals Hall of Fame, the slumping Yankees, the Giants passing the Dodgers in the standings and Kyle Schwarber going off in June, again. Then, Kiley McDaniel stops by to talk about a player at the College World Series that could break into the Majors this season, the top of the MLB Draft, Paul Skenes, an unconventional draft strategy the Yankees could deploy and what’re the Pirates are getting from former No. 1 pick Henry Davis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss what Karl’s excited to see at the College World Series, a scouting report on Eduardo Pérez’s travels, Buster’s question of the day, if this is the best of Shohei Ohtani we’ve ever seen, Rob Manfred’s head-scratching statement about the Athletics, the surging Phillies and takeaways from the Subway Series. Then, Sarah Langs has notes on which team is crushing 450-foot home runs, grand slams and more Ohtani firsts. Later, Todd Radom stops by to give his thoughts on Oakland losing its baseball team, share the Forgotten Field and administer the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alden Gonzalez and Buster discuss the crescendo of events surrounding the Athletics and Alden’s extensive reporting on what exactly is happening with baseball’s regional sports networks. Then, Rays pitcher Tyler Glasnow on when he knew the team was off to a special start, Shane McClanahan’s development and Andrew McCutcheon’s return to the Pirates. Next, David Schoenfield talks about the Mets’ rotation’s continued struggles, Max Scherzer’s sticky stuff point, Aaron Boone holding the Yankees together and the Angels in the wild card mix. Later, Marlins manager Skip Schumaker on what he’s learning as a rookie manager, forging bonds with the players in the offseason, Yuli Gurriel holding court at his locker and what he’s seeing in Sandy Alcántara. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss everyone wanting to see Elly de la Cruz in the Home Run Derby, if the A’s tanking or Royals’ ineptitude is worse, why the Brewers and Phillies still have a path to the playoffs, and the Red Sox needing to be clear about their intentions. Then, Sarah Langs on the Mets pitching putting the team in a tough spot, the A’s winning streak, a Coors Field-y stat, Brandon Crawford taking the mound and her ideal Derby field. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech joins to discuss his Alex Cora tweet, why the Red Sox are at a crossroads, and how Aaron Judge’s injury has impacted the team. Then, Diamondbacks Manager Torey Lovullo joins and discusses the level of talent on the organization’s roster, standout interactions he has had with Corbin Carroll, the gutsy trades of the front office, and his thoughts on the new rules. Next, Sarah Langs hops on and shares the Juan Soto threshold, if Elly De La Cruz is one of her new favorite players, and how she chose which autographed bats to auction for ALS. Later, Todd Radom joins to share this week’s Forgotten Field and administer the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster is joined by Boog Sciambi to discuss the impact of Jacob deGrom's injury, Aaron Judge on the IL list, the arc of Marcus Semien’s career, and the chances of Luis Arraez hitting .400. Then, Reds GM Nick Krall hops on to share his evaluation of Elly De La Cruz, Andrew Abbott’s six inning shutout debut, and the culture of the clubhouse.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian joins Buster to discuss Alek Manoah’s performance this year, Aaron Judge's incredible catch, and if the Ray’s Shane McClanahan is the best pitcher in baseball. Next, co-head Community Engagement & Foundation at the Mets Julianna Sabra hops on to share her favorite moments of honoring Sarah Langs at Citi Field and the thought behind the Mets’ decision to make a donation to Project ALS. Then, Sarah Langs joins to share what it meant to her being honored at Citi Field, her favorite moments of her boyfriend throwing the first pitch, and we play the Numbers Game with a fun twist. Plus, listen to a special interview with Karl Ravech, Aaron Boone, and Dave Roberts in the seats of Dodger Stadium. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In honor of Lou Gehrig Day, Sarah Langs joins to share her journey with ALS and what it means being honored at Citi Field. Next, we share the Outside the Lines feature about Sarah Langs with the voices of her parents Charlie and Liise-Anne, Bruce Bochy, Alex Cora, and her boyfriend Matt Williams. Then, Karl Ravech joins to share how Sunday Night Baseball is honoring Sarah with A Langs Star, and he shares some of his fond memories with Sarah. Plus, Karl and Buster dive into why Yankees fans should be optimistic, Bobby Miller putting on a show, and if the Diamondbacks can slay the dragons. Then, Todd Radom joins for this weeks Forgotten Field and administers this week’s quiz. Later, MLBPA Managing Director Evan Kaplan joins to give details of the new marketing deal and how it will impact players. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today is Lou Gehrig Day across Major League Baseball, a day to honor the New York Yankees legend when he left the game in 1939 after he was diagnosed with ALS. And today, there’s someone else in baseball who is fighting the exact same fight Gehrig fought over 80 years ago: Sarah Langs. Sarah is a baseball researcher and analyst, and has worked for ESPN and MLB. She’s one of sports media’s brightest young voices, and Buster Olney joins us today to share her story…and how she remains unphased after life threw her a devastating curveball. For more information on Sarah’s “Fist Bumps for ALS” campaign, click here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss which player is calling Tim “TK,” the Rays and Braves sputtering, the monumental battle for AL MVP, and the AL East teams most likely to make the playoffs. Then, Orioles manager Brandon Hyde stops by to talk about balancing family time and his career, the difference between this year’s team and last, Adley Rutschman taking things personally, dealing with Cedric Mullins’ injury, and how he manages against Aaron Judge. Later, Bob Kendrick shares a story at Tim Kurkjian’s request and the plans to build a new Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joon Lee joins Buster to discuss Liam Hendriks’ return since recovering from non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma, Buster’s hot White Sox take, Aaron Judge the athlete, the lack of offense from the Padres and people around baseball openly feeling sorry for the A’s. Then, Sarah Langs stops by to talk about *herself*, Spencer Strider’s return, another remarkable Shohei Ohtani stat and the Rangers' run differential.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech joins Buster to discuss the dominance of Spencer Strider, which pitcher is the best on the planet, if the Padres or Blue Jays are in bigger trouble and the latest in the A’s stadium saga. Then, Braves pitcher Spencer Strider stops by to talk about how he analyzes each start, refining his fastball, which pitchers he admired growing up, sharing notes with Kevin Pillar and why he wears No. 99. Next, Todd Radom stops by with the Forgotten Field and to administer the quiz. Later, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game with a note on Aaron Boone’s latest ejection.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Doug Glanville and Buster discuss the force of Christopher Morel, who Doug would take with the second pick of an MLB redraft and the managerial art of arguing with an umpire. Then, MASN’s Melanie Newman stops by to talk about the playoff atmosphere between the Yankees and Orioles, her second pick in an MLB redraft, Adley Rutschman walking off with pitchers after an inning, Gunnar Henderson building Lego sets to separate from the game, Cedric Mullins’ slow heart rate and a squirrel surprising fans at Yankee Stadium. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss how games are now too short for Tim’s trek home from Bristol, if the Mets are back, Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander pitching the same day, Max Muncy claiming Willson Contreras is bullying umpires and something special going on in Baltimore. Then, Sarah Langs on if the Guardians should trade Shane Bieber, another Bryce Miller stat, the pitching duel on Sunday Night Baseball and the AL East’s run differential. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss the Guardians’ gradual improvement and the need for an offensive injection, which New York shortstop will end the season with more home runs, if the Padres or Mets are in more trouble, a big series win for the Yankees over the Blue Jays, and Domingo Germán’s 10-game suspension. Then, Rays shortstop Wander Franco stops by to talk about Tampa’s offense, the ball flip and his love of cars. Next, Sarah Langs has notes on Pete Alonso’s 16th home run, Ronald Acuña Jr.’s current tear and which team is the second best in baseball. Later, Guardians manager Terry Francona on his teams historically improving each month, his current assessment of the squad and how he would tweak the new rules. Finally, Todd Radom has thoughts on hat culture, delivers the Forgotten Field and administers the quiz. Plus, does Buster hate the Orioles? An investigation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joon Lee joins Buster to discuss the Mets crowd letting Justin Verlander have it and the Mets rotation missing last year’s dependability, the brewing rivalry between the Yankees and Blue Jays, and Kenley Jansen’s fight against anxiety. Then, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch’s Derrick Goold stops by to talk about which Cardinals player will end the season with the most starts at catcher, Andrew Kninzer’s place in the clubhouse, Willson Contreras’ professionalism, if Jack Flaherty can get on a roll and the NL Central not putting St. Louis away when it had the chance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss the Mother’s Day surprise for Lars Nootbar on Sunday Night Baseball, Bryce Harper charging the Rockies’ dugout, the Padres looking shaky after a sweep by the Dodgers, if Drew Rasmussen’s injury will matter for the Rays and Buster’s advice for the Cardinals. Then, Buster was in the locker room after Kenley Jansen’s pitch clock violations. Later, Sarah Langs on Zack Greinke striking out a thousand different batters, Josh Naylor’s late-game heroics, a Bryce Miller update and the Blue Jays’ first shut out in a while. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech joins to discuss the impact of Willson Contreras moving from catcher to designated hitter, the pleasant surprise of the Red Sox, and if this is the year the Angels get Trout and Ohtani to the post season. Then, Sarah Langs hops on to break down the amazing career start for Casey Schmitt, Nathan Eovaldi stepping up, and her mom's impact on her in honor of Mother’s Day. Later, Todd Radom joins for this week’s Forgotten Field and administers the weekly quiz.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Boog Sciambi and Buster discuss the Cardinals’ Willson Contreras problem, the stark number of pitching injuries across the league and the worst-case-scenario. Then, Mariners outfielder Jarred Kelenic on the offseason adjustments he made to his swing, the best compliment someone can give him, the new rules bringing competing in the box back to the game and his read on the AL West. Later, Lindsay Berra, executive producer of It Ain’t Over and granddaughter of Yogi Berra, stops by to talk about memories with her grandparents, the character of Yogi overshadowing the man, how his experience in combat changed his outlook on the game, his self-confidence and his complicated relationship with George Steinbrenner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss the passing of Vida Blue and why he was such a big deal in the majors, The Cardinals deciding to pull Willson Contreras from catching duties, The Rays no long have to mix and match their lineups, The Rays no long have to mix and match their lineups, The Rays no long have to mix and match their lineups. Then, Sarah Langs on Bryce Miller’s second start, Fernando Tatis Jr.’s two home runs against Clayton Kershaw and if the Padres took it too far with the crying Kershaw meme. Plus, John Anderson talks to Mookie Betts after L.A. beat San Diego on Sunday Night Baseball. And, ESPN Radio interviews with Freddie Freeman, Bob Melvin and Dave Roberts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss how the Padres are measured by their performance against the Dodgers, Oli Marmol’s angry press conference, the Red Sox playing a lot better than expected, Brian Cashman taking blame for the Yankees’ woes, the Braves’ lack of blemishes and the Rays’ level of dominance. Then, Cubs third baseman Patrick Wisdom stops by to talk about his comfortability wearing a mic on the field, how Dansby Swanson makes it look easy, what he attributes to his start to the season, if he checks the flags at Wrigley and if he’s ever talked dancing with David Ross. Later, Todd Radom is back from South Korea to share his KBO experiences and to deliver the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs and Buster discuss Sarah’s day at Yankee Stadium, her #FistBumps4ALS campaign, Bryce Miller’s perfect bid in his MLB debut and why you don’t want the Rays to score first. Next, Bruce Bochy talks about his first place Rangers, the team’s resiliency, injury updates on Corey Seager and Jacob deGrom, how he pushed the Buster Posey Rule, and his best Madison Bumgarner story. Then, Buster asks Xavier Scruggs on what’s wrong with the Cardinals? Later, Jessica Mendoza on why Bryce Harper’s return is so shocking, Brandon Marsh’s increased plate productivity and the most exciting player in baseball. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs and Buster discuss Sarah’s 30th birthday and why birthdays are so important, Alex Verdugo’s walk-offs, Ronald Acuña Jr.’s 440-foot home runs, and the fastest ever return from Tommy John surgery. Then, Tim Kurkjian on what makes Langs great at her job, Bryce Harper returning to the Phillies lineup and Philadelphia looking ready to launch, the lack of starting pitching available in the trade market, the Yankees' mounting problems in a tough division, the Padres and piñatas, and the Cardinals’ Mike Shannon passing away. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech joins Buster to play a game of “Panic, Patience or Party” for a litany of teams including the Astros, Phillies, Pirates and White Sox. Then, Pittsburgh pitcher Rich Hill stops by to talk about a fun start to the season, Brian Reynolds’ new deal, how he can get his hands on the home run sword and why MLB can’t find a baseball that pitchers can work with. Then, Buster plays an epic rant from a White Sox fan calling into ESPN1000 in Chicago. Next, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game. Later, Hembo makes a special appearance on the pod. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Passan and Buster discuss injuries hampering the league to start the season, baseball’s biggest potential looming crisis, the Rays’ perfect combination of analytics and process, how the Cardinals can right the ship, and Bryan Reynolds' new contract. Then, Todd Radom delivers the Forgotten Field and administers the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian joins Buster to discuss David Cone’s rosin experiment, the Rays and the A’s on the extremes of the league, Logan O’Hoppe’s injury and Drew Maggi’s call-up. Then, Marcus Semien stops by to talk about his feel for the Rangers during spring training, the differences between this year’s team and last year’s, how they’re celebrating home runs and victories, and how he feels about the Athletics leaving Oakland. Later, Sarah Langs on the Rays’ 13-0 start to the season at home, Masataka Yoshida’s two homer game and the opposing batters’ average when facing Ohtani. Plus, Roxy Bernstein’s interview with Brandon Nimmo. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss Max Scherzer’s sticky stuff suspension, Pete Alonso betting on himself, the Giants’ lack of defense, what’s next for Madison Bumgarner, the beauty of the Brewers and the A’s moving to Las Vegas. Next, Sarah Langs stops by to talk about the metrics that prove the rule changes are working as intended, the Rays’ shutouts to start the season and the Pirates’ 27 home runs. Then, Hembo on the return of Fernando Tatis Jr. to the Padres lineup, if Clayton Kershaw is the best regular pitcher ever, and his thoughts on The Beatles. Plus, the gang lays out a few weekend wagers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Buster waking up to more snow in Bozeman Clayton Kershaw’s 200th win and why he should go into the Hall of Fame with a unanimous vote, their top-three teams right now, Mookie Betts possibly playing shortstop, and Hunter Greene’s extension. Then, Buster talks to Bob Melvin, Xander Bogaerts, Juan Soto and Manny Machado about where they prefer to hit in the lineup. Later, Todd Radom shares his thoughts on Chris Sale, delivers the Forgotten Field and administers the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Schoenfield and Buster discuss injuries to Corbin Burnes, Jacob deGrom and Jeffrey Springs, the Dodgers and Mariners starting 8-9, Dave flip-flopping on the Diamondbacks, Yordan Álvarez’s easy swing, if Fernando Tatis Jr. could walk more, and the Athletics staining Major League Baseball. Then, Karl Ravech’s full interview with Dusty Baker and Bruce Bochy. Later, Sarah Abbott recaps the Taylor Swift concert and Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster discuss the undefeated Rays’ baseball operation, Jared Kelenic and Gleyber Torres’ improved approaches at the plate, how the Padres should order their lineup when Fernando Tatis Jr. returns, and Bryce Harper volunteering to play first base. Then, Sarah Langs stops by to talk about how many innings the Tampa Bay has trailed, Luis Arráez hitting .500 and Max Muncy pounding the Giants. Later, Karl Ravech on Martín Maldonado wearing the mic on Sunday Night Baseball, and the Tigers and Red Sox feeling like powder kegs early in the season. Plus, Elle Duncan interviews Brandon Lowe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jessica Mendoza and Buster discuss the rise of home run celebrations, the undefeated Rays’ offense continuing to impress, how the pitch clock is helping dominant pitchers, Martín Maldonado on the mic for this week’s Sunday Night Baseball and the Giants trying to figure it out. Then, Todd Radom delivers this week’s Forgotten Field and administers the quiz. Later, Jesse Rogers on the Cubs’ strong start, misreading the Brewers and if the Cardinals will trade for a pitcher. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster Olney discuss the Rays’ 9-0 start, getting contributions from across the roster and how it could be difference-making in the AL East. They also get into Oneil Cruz’s injury, Tim’s take on the Padres-Braves Hall of Fame conversation, the defensive metrics for the Brewers being off the charts, Shohei Ohtani hitting a ball at his ankles for a home run and the athleticism of the Diamondbacks. Then, Sarah Langs talks about Nick Castellanos, Jordan Walker’s nine-game hit streak to start his career and Nelson Cruz’s six RBI game. Plus, interviews with Bob Melvin and Cruz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss the star power of Braves-Padres, how many future Hall of Famers could be playing in this weekend’s series, AAA Sacramento pitcher Kade McClure calling Fernando Tatis Jr. a “cheater,” the Brewers sweeping the Mets and the Dodgers feeling just fine. Next, Sarah Langs talks about the Giants hitting 13 home runs against the White Sox, Vlad Guerrero Jr.’s incredible start to the season, the undefeated Rays and Juan Soto’s defense. Then, Hembo on his new book “Got Your Number,” patience or panic with the Phillies, why being single is cool again and a star catcher. Later, Taylor leads off the Bleacher Tweets with thoughts on the Oakland A’s. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eduardo Pérez and Buster discuss Oliver Marmol calling out Tyler O’Neill for getting thrown out at home, Manny Machado’s strikeout via pitch clock violation, what’s wrong with the Mets and MLB’s average salary going up 11 percent. Then, Jessica Mendoza with her takes on Marmol calling out O’Neill and Machado’s pitch clock violation. Plus, her thoughts on the Dodgers’ rotation and the Orioles promoting Grayson Rodriguez. Later, Todd Radom delivers the Forgotten Field and administers the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss the Rangers looking like even-keeled professionals with Bruce Bochy at the helm, Robbie Ray going down, Jake Cronenworth’s extension, Kodai Senga's “ghost fork,” the undefeated Rays and Joey Gallo doing damage with the Twins. Then, Sarah Langs on if Juan Soto is in “decline,” Anthony Volpe’s first career hit and Tim Herrin making history in his MLB debut. Plus, interviews with Marcus Semien and Bryce Harper. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss Aaron Judge picking up where he left off, Shohei Ohtani dazzling on the mound in an Angels loss, if Dylan Cease is the best pitcher on the planet, their first impressions of the pitch clock, Red Sox fans booing, why they doubted the Dodgers and the AL MVP trifecta. Then, Sarah Langs on her favorite thing from Opening Day, Adley Rutschman and the pace of play. Plus, Buster finishes his team previews with the Yankees and Phillies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eduardo Pérez and Buster make rapid-fire predictions on home run numbers for Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge, if the Angels make the playoffs, if the Astros can repeat as champions, and how many wins the White Sox will notch. Plus, they touch on the tentative agreement between MiLB players and MLB. Then, Hembo on his best season-long bets, three player milestones to watch and the three most loaded jersey numbers in baseball history. Later, Todd Radom shares this week’s Forgotten Field and administers the weekly quiz. And, Buster previews the Brewers and the Royals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss the time Tim was pulled over while doing a radio hit, their picks for the playoffs, Cy Young and MVP, Anthony Volpe making the Yankees’ Opening Day roster, the Guardians extending Andrés Giménez, the Braves’ rotation looking vulnerable and JT Realmuto’s ridiculous ejection. Then, Sarah Langs clears out for Taylor to yell about Grayson Rodriguez, gives her picks and plays The Numbers Game. Plus, Buster previews the Rays and Tigers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss more injuries in the NL East, hockey star Connor McDavid wanting an international hockey tournament after watching the World Baseball Classic, and how they’d fix the WBC’s pitching problem. Next, Roger Clemens talks about the Astros’ chances to repeat, Shohei Ohtani’s preparation and how he’d try to exploit the new rules on the mound. Then, Jessica Mendoza on Ohtani executing his best pitch in biggest moment, moving the WBC to July and what the Dodgers need from their starting shortstop. Later, Sarah Langs has notes on Ohtani, Masataka Yoshida and Matt Olson mashing in Spring Training. Plus, Buster previews the Red Sox and Marlins. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster discuss Shohei Ohtani cementing himself as the face of baseball, the most significant moment of Ohtani and Mike Trout’s careers, Bryce Harper staying off the 60-day IL and Hembo’s preseason superlatives. Then, Alden Gonzalez on the World Baseball Classic final being one of the best experiences he’s had at a ballpark, the game ending in the matchup everyone wanted, Ohtani’s growth as a pitcher and something he’s never seen before on the field. Later, Todd Radom delivers this week’s Forgotten Field and administers the quiz. Plus, Buster previews the Cardinals and the Nationals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs and Buster discuss Trea Turner's grand slam against Venezuela, Paul Goldschmidt hitting the ball hard in the World Baseball Classic and Rōki Sasaki. Then, Tim Kurkjian stops by to talk about the Mets losing Edwin Díaz, how the Phillies could be the biggest benefactors of Diaz going down, if the Astros can manage without Jose Altuvé, where Fernando Tatis Jr.'s head will be at when he returns from suspension, agreeing on all six National League playoff teams, and the Cubs and the Angels looking improved in Spring Training. Plus, Buster previews the Padres and Pirates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Passan and Buster discuss how an exciting Puerto Rico-Dominican Republic game was dampen by Edwin Diaz injuring himself in the celebration, his impressions of the World Baseball Classic, how it impacts the Mets bullpen and MLB’s rules when signing players from Japan. Then, Todd Radom delivers the Forgotten Field and administers the weekly quiz. Next, Buster previews the Blue Jays. Later, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game from the WBC with an even more exuberant crowd behind her. And, Buster asks Hal Steinbrenner about when he consults with Aaron Judge.Jeff Passan and Buster discuss how an exciting Puerto Rico-Dominican Republic game was dampen by Edwin Diaz injuring himself in the celebration, his impressions of the World Baseball Classic, how it impacts the Mets bullpen and MLB’s rules when signing players from Japan. Then, Todd Radom delivers the Forgotten Field and administers the weekly quiz. Next, Buster previews the Blue Jays. Later, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game from the WBC with an even more exuberant crowd behind her. And, Buster asks Hal Steinbrenner about when he consults with Aaron Judge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Xavier Scruggs and Buster Olney discuss if the 40/40 club will become less exclusive, which players could join the club, Shohei Ohtani growing the game through the World Baseball Classic and a conversation he had with Anthony Volpe. Then, Hembo brings a touch of March Madness to the pod with his No. 1 overall seed in MLB, a Cinderella team and a Diaper Dandy. Next, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game from the WBC. And, Buster previews the Diamondbacks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eduardo Pérez joins Buster to discuss the World Baseball Classic, Venezuela looking primed to come out of Pool D, a possible Puerto Rico-Dominican Republic showdown, Mexico crushing Team USA, losing his voice cheering on Puerto Rico and which Spring Training stats he looks at when evaluating young players. Then, Orioles pitcher Grayson Rodriguez stops by to talk about what he has left to prove in the AAA, working with Adley Rutschman, the first time he realized he could be pretty good at baseball and his passion for hunting. Then, Tim Kurkjian on Baltimore’s direction, the Diamondbacks inking Corbin Carroll to a longterm contract and what he’s been seeing at Spring Training in Arizona. Plus, Buster previews the Angels and the Orioles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joey Votto joins Buster to for a wide-ranging discussion on the new rules, the market demanding a more efficient product, why he likes to know roughly how long a game will take and how hard it is to hit a ball directionally. Next, Buster previews the Reds. Then, Sarah Langs stops by to talk about pulling a near-all-nighter, World Baseball Classic all-time leaders and why it feels like Shohei Ohtani is going to have an unbelievable season. Later, Karl Ravech on the Yankees shutting down Carlos Rodón and the Red Sox continuing to win in Spring Training. Plus, Mike Greenberg makes an appearance to take break from Aaron Rodgers speculation to talk baseball. Finally, Todd Radom debuts this season's weekly Forgotten Fields segment, along with the first quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster discuss the numbers showing the rule changes in baseball are working as intended, the spending by the Padres versus the rest of the league, Aaron Judge's home run over/under, and the best stat you'll hear this week. Then, Mariners GM Jerry Dipoto stops by to talk about the PECOTA win projection for his team, adding Kolten Wong and Teoscar Hernández, how A.J. Pollack can help Jared Kelenic, the next step for Julio Rodríguez, and his view of the AL West. Then, David Schoenfield on the United States and the Dominican Republic having some of the best lineups ever seen in baseball, injuries in the NL East, why he's backing off the Diamondbacks, and what would have to go wrong with the Angels to be out of the playoff chase by the trade deadline. Plus, Buster previews the Mariners and the Rockies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Shohei Ohtani’s two home runs in an exhibition for Japan, the player intrigue around Ohtani’s contract, if Chaim Bloom can dunk, Gerrit Cole and Max Scherzer’s differing approaches to the pitch clock, what rival executives are saying about Anthony Volpe, and the passing of Rays radio voice Dave Wills. Then, Sarah Langs stops by to talk about why she was an outlier in the White Sox conversation, Shane Bieber’s fourth-straight Opening Day start, Trey Mancini, and how she’d handle promoting a superstar prospect to start the season. Plus, Buster previews the Braves and the White Sox. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Follow Buster on Instagram: busterolney_espn Karl Ravech joins Buster to discuss his prediction for a big year in baseball, the pitch clock moving the game at a better pace, Karl’s conversation with Tommy Edman, what Rafael Devers bought after signing his new deal, the best clubhouse guy in the league and a shout out to umpire Andy Fletcher. Then, Sarah Langs has updates on three young pitchers. Later, the return of Todd Radom. Plus, Buster previews the Dodgers and the Twins. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eduardo Pérez joins Buster to discuss how much he would pay for a Taylor Swift concert ticket, Eduardo’s idea for in-stadium beer sales with increased pace of play, Yordan Álvarez’s lingering hand issue and Kodai Senga. Then, Buster previews the Oakland Athletics. Next, Alden Gonzalez on how the Dodgers replace Gavin Lux this season and Shohei Ohtani looking sharp in his preseason pitching debut. Later, Boog Sciambi stops by to talk about recording the voiceover for MLB: The Show, the pulse of the players on the rule changes and the Cubs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Buster insulting Tim on TV, if too many rules have been instituted at once, Gavin Lux doing down, Red Sox-Braves ending in a pitch clock violation, Manny Machado signing a new contract with the Padres, Cardinals prospect Jordan Walker, and C.B. Bucknor’s beef with Oli Marmol. Then, Buster’s in-game interview with Walker from Monday Night Baseball. Next, Buster talks to Carlos Correa about educating teammates on analytics, failing two physicals and moving on from the offseason with the Twins. Later, Sarah Langs on Machado’s plate appearances since 2015, Sean Manaea’s velocity and the spike in money in baseball. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss exposing people to the pitch clock for the first time on a national broadcast, Fernando Tatis Jr.’s motivation, players poised to have monster years, the Yankees mulling Aaron Judge playing in left field and a few season win totals. Then, Sarah Langs on the most shifted players last season and why she thinks Jesse Winker is primed bounce back with the Brewers. Plus, Buster talks to Dave Dombroski, Alex Cora and Brian Snitker at Spring Training.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Schoenfield joins Buster to discuss Harrison Bader flying under the radar for the Yankees, the Diamondbacks on the rise, Steve Cohen’s subtext and the Mets batters needing to stay in the batter’s box. Then, president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum Bob Kendrick stops by to talk about how the museum is thriving after the early days of the pandemic, his favorite Satchel Paige story and Negro League players appearing in MLB: The Show. Plus, Buster previews the Cubs and the Rangers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

MLB’s Joe Martinez joins Buster to answer listener questions on this season’s rule changes. Then, Tim Kurkjian discusses a life curveball thrown at him, who will be the Yankees’ Opening Day shortstop, three people who called Dusty Baker after winning the World Series, Corbin Burnes’ being at odds with the Brewers, the gap of money between Manny Machado and the Padres and his memories of Tim McCarver. Later, Diamondbacks rookie Corbin Carroll talks about his welcome to the big league moment, what he worked on in the offseason, wanting to positively impact people, and his family. Finally, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game. Plus, Buster previews the Mets and the Guardians. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster is joined by Jeff Passan to discuss Justin Turner wearing No. 2 for the Red sox, the impact of the new rules, landing spots for Shohei Ohtani, and the Trevor Bauer's future. Then, Hembo joins to discuss if he is qualified to be a pitch clock operator, who will win the NL West, and his bold prediction for Mike Trout this season. Next, Sarah Langs joins to play the Numbers Game, gives her thoughts on the pitch clock, and shares why she thinks the Padres will win the NL West. Later, Karl Ravech hops on to ruin Buster’s day. Then they discuss the latest injury news including Stephen Strasburg’s setback and Jacob DeGrom’s debut as a Ranger being delayed. Plus, he shares insights to the nuances of the MLB conference call about the new rules. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Mickey Rivers attempting to shakedown Tim at his first spring training, Justin Verlander reuniting with Max Scherzer and why the ghost runner rule really bothers Tim. Then, Alex Anthopoulous talks about the chaos of extra-innings games, if he looks at win projections and Dana Brown leaving for the Astros. Next, Sarah Langs on Cedric Mullins and Jorge Mateo stealing bases, and Yu Darvish signing another six-year deal. Later, Vinnie Pasquantino gets into the Chiefs winning the Super Bowl, an awkward moment at radio row, Arizona not changing its clocks and his Joey Votto-like command of the strike zone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster is joined by Jess Mendoza to break down what to expect from the Dodgers going into spring training, the Dodger's retiring Fernando Valenzuela's jersey, and her experience coaching in Europe. Next, Buster is joined by Dodgers manager Dave Roberts discussing who will be the starting shortstop this season, the turnover of personalities in the clubhouse, and the Dodgers - Padres rivalry. Then, Pittsburgh Pirates GM Ben Cherington joins to discuss the nuance of trade conversations, talks with Bryan Reynolds, and Oneil Cruz’s progression. Next, Sarah Langs joins to play the numbers game and Buster quizzes her movie knowledge. Plus, Doug Glanville hops on to grade his career in the big leagues, what team is intriguing this winter, how Tatís will navigate what’s next following his suspension, what team has befuddled him, and shares the impact of his Sports and Society class. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster discuss falling in love with the Mariners’ offseason, bets with the best value for MVP and Cy Young, and when he knew Rob Thomson was the guy for the Phillies. Next, new Astros GM Dana Brown stops by to talk about finally landing a GM job, scouting Michael Harris II and how to improve his championship roster. Then, Rob Thomson on Bryce Harper’s healing process, courting Trae Turner and the keys to making a World Series return. Later, Padres GM A.J. Preller shares insights on contract talks with Juan Soto and Manny Machado. And finally, Sarah Langs talks about receiving the You Can Look It Up Award and meeting Julio Rodríguez. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster discuss Scott Rolen’s admittance into the Baseball Hall of Fame, how Hall of Fame voting has become like instant replay, the Twins-Marlins trade and which teams Hembo thinks will be the last four standing in 2023. Then, Miami GM Kim Ng stops by to talk about how the Luis Arráez trade went down, Skip Schumaker getting the best out of players, being in a division with Goliaths and Sandy Alcántara. Next, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game. Later, Angels GM Perry Minasian on Arte Moreno deciding to hold onto the franchise, improving the defense and where negotiations stand with Shohei Ohtani. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Description: Alden Gonzalez and Buster discuss how much money Shohei Ohtani could score in free agency, what the Angels should do as they try to re-sign Ohtani, which teams could afford Ohtani, if Trevor Bauer will land on a team this season and the automatic strike zone coming to AAA. Then, Sarah Langs talks about if Corey Seager is underrated, a “down year” for Juan Soto, and rubbing elbows with Sandy Alcántara and Aaron Judge. Later, Hembo on why $500 million is merely the get-in price for Ohtani, baseball’s Jaguars in 2023 and appreciating Andrew McCutchen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian joins Buster to discuss the Dodgers trading for Miguel Rojas, if Trevor Bauer will pitch again and how they’ve never seen anything like the Carlos Correa saga. Then, Hembo on Steve Cohen and the Mets deciding they weren’t paying for damaged goods, plus notes on Dusty Baker. Later, Dylan Cease stops by to talk about Liam Hendriks’ cancer diagnosis, Buster picking him to win the Cy Young in 2022, his drive to constantly improve, his dominant slider, how he figured out that pitch, when he knew the slider was a special pitch for him and pitchers he learned from growing up. Finally, Sarah Langs gets into Mandy Bell’s final fundraising haul for ALS research, Nelson Cruz signing with the Padres, Adley Rutschman and the Blue Jays balancing their lineup. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster and Yankees GM Brian Cashman discuss his team’s roster, who’s going to play left field, if he had any idea Aaron Judge would return to New York after the season ended, Hal Steinbrenner’s involvement with Judge, media reports Judge was signing with San Francisco and Cashman’s additions to the front office. Then, Hembo stops by to talk about what the Dodgers will do with Trevor Bauer, why Rafael Devers is a worthwhile investment for the Red Sox and Carlos Correa's next move if he doesn’t sign a long term deal. Later, Sarah Langs on coaching up Mandy Bell for a half marathon, Rich Hill’s 12th team, and if the Rogers twins will pull pranks while playing for the Giants. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster is joined by Karl Ravech breaking down today’s shocking news of Carlos Correa heading to the New York Mets and how Steve Cohen has changed the equation for MLB owners. Next, Sarah Langs joins sharing her mom’s conspiracy theory on Correa to the Mets and how she would line up the Mets’ star hitters if she were Buck Showalter. Then, Cubs manager David Ross hops on to share how the Dansby Swanson deal went down, ways Dansby impresses him on and off the field, and how their pitching is taking a step forward. Later, Hembo joins to breakdown why the Correa deal is fundamentally a shock to baseball and how Correa will take the Mets to the next level. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Doug Glanville joins Buster to discuss teams handing out huge deals, players seeking the biggest pile of money possible, Carlos Correa signing with the Giants, Carlos Rodón’s injury questions after signing with the Yankees and where Dansby Swanson could land as the last big piece on the board. Then, Hembo stops by to declare that the Yankees leveled the playing field against the Astros and Rodón will provide Gerrit Cole a safety net, plus a round of Big, Bigger, Biggest. Later, Terry Francona on the one thing he likes to brag about, playing Cribbage in the clubhouse, unintended consequences of the rule changes, and what Josh Bell and Mike Zunino bring to the Guardians. Finally, Sarah Langs answers your #BleacherTweets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Boston Globe's Dan Shaughnessy joins Buster to discuss his full autopsy on the Red Sox, it being dark day for Boston fans losing Xander Bogaerts, and his advice for the organization moving forward. Next, Sarah Langs hops on to play The Numbers Game and give her insight on what a Shohei Ohtani contract might look like this winter. Then, Karl Ravech joins to break down Red Sox's confusing decisions, Willson Contreras heading to the Cardinals, and Aaron Judge’s crystal ball. Later, Hembo comes on to analyze the trump card Carlos Correa has over the Red Sox and Bogaerts running wild with the Padres lineup. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster and David Schoenfield discuss Aaron Judge re-signing with the Yankees to a 9-year, $360 million deal, New York rolling over, Judge’s bet on himself paying off, the Padres in cost-be-damned mode, where San Francisco should turn after missing out on Judge, and why the Cubs should be involved in landing an elite shortstop. Then, Hembo stops by to talk about if Judge made the right decision, why Rob Manfred is fist pumping today, Judge elevating his team and why the Giants’ Plan B should be Carlos Correa. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster discuss the Phillies signing Trea Turner, Hembo’s thoughts on the short and long term implications of the signing, San Diego having the biggest offer on the table for Turner and if this signals the Padres will take another big swing in free agency. Then, Sarah Langs talks about the Padres’ willingness to spend, Philadelphia with two contracts of at least 11 years on the books, and Justin Verlander joining Max Scherzer and the Mets. Later, Tim Kurkjian on the Phillies’ lineup with Turner, Verlander’s contract matching Scherzer’s and the Yankees re-signing Brian Cashman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Schoenfield and Buster discuss how Jacob deGrom landed with the Rangers, the Brewers trading Kolten Wong to the Mariners for Jesse Winker and Abraham Toro, Brian Reynolds demanding a trade, what kind of push are .500 teams willing to make in free agency, the ever-changing game of musical shortstops, Fred McGriff heading to the Hall of Fame, and another mess with selection for the Hall. Then, Sarah Langs on how the Hall created a more difficult ballot for its new committee, Aaron Judge looking for a nine-year contract in his age 31 season, projecting Trea Turner’s legs and deGrom’s sub-.190 opponent batting average. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott Servais joins Buster to discuss his thoughts on the postseason, the Astros’ pitching staff, what Teoscar Hernandez brings to the Mariners and if he’ll play with two outfielders. Sarah Langs talks about the Astros signing José Abreu, the rarity of players winning a Cy Young or an MVP and then changing teams, and which team is under the most pressure to make a big signing. Later, Hembo explains why his Philly brethren are misguided in who they want playing shortstop. Plus, Hembo and Buster embrace the season of giving. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster Olney discuss Aaron Judge meeting with the Giants and the tremendous pressure on the Yankees, the Red Sox fan base in pure revolt, the Brewers trading Hunter Renfroe to the Angels, and Hall of Fame voting angst. Plus, Sarah Langs on the video of Judge in San Francisco, Albert Pujols winning Comeback Player of the Year, unanimous Cy Young winners and her favorite Thanksgiving dish. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Theo Epstein joins Buster to discuss the overlooked aspect of banning the shift, seeing stolen base attempts go up, when he decided to leave the Cubs, players disliking downtime and analytic trends pushing the game in the wrong direction. Then, Sarah Langs shares how she met Steph Curry and Steve Kerr, and plays The Numbers Game. Later, Hembo on Jeff Saturday’s Dusty Baker-like touch in the locker room, hitters that will benefit from the regulations against the shift and, why he’d sign Justin Verlander over Jacob deGrom. Later, Alden Gonzalez talks about Yasiel Puig’s guilty plea, the erosion of trust between the Astros and James Click and the players being talked about at last week’s GM meetings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Doug Glanville and Buster discuss the Astros’ legacy after winning the 2022 World Series, the incredible postseason performance from Houston’s pitching staff, and Doug’s thoughts on Dusty Baker winning his first championship as a manager. Next, Sarah Langs stops by to talk about her post-baseball to-do list, the stat she started writing before it happened, the dominance of the Astros' bullpen and the years between championships for Baker. Then, David Schoenfield on Rob Thomson pulling Zack Wheeler early, how the Astros and Phillies move forward into the offseason, the Angels declaring they won’t trade Shohei Ohtani, and the Mets signing Edwin Diaz for five years. Later, Todd Radom delivers his thoughts on watching a World Series game in Philadelphia and administers one last quiz. Finally, the show ends with Bart Giamatti's “The Green Fields of the Mind.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss Buster’s interesting postgame interview with Justin Verlander, Verlander getting his first World Series win, Verlander’s embrace with Dusty Baker, big defensive moments from Chas McCormick and Trey Mancini, if Jeremy Peña is the frontrunner for World Series MVP, and Zack Wheeler on extra rest. Then, Sarah Langs stops by to talk about the last time a team hit a lead off home run after being no-hit in the playoffs, the streak of teams clinching on the road in the playoffs and who the Astros should start in a potential Game 7. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster discuss the dramatic swing of emotions for Phillies fans, one of the most dominant pitching performances they’ve ever seen and the Phillies’ game plan against Justin Verlander. Then, Jessica Mendoza talks Cristian Javier cold-bloodedness, the relationship among the Astro pitchers, why the Phillies struggled with Javier’s fastball and Verlander taking the mound for the second time. Later, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game and shares some Langs family baseball superstitions. Plus, Buster and Dan Shulman talked to MLB commissioner Rob Manfred. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dan Shulman joins Buster to break down game three of the World Series, if Lance McCullers was truly tipping pitches, and what Bryce Harper really said to Alec Bohm. Then, Sarah Langs hops on to share her interaction with Justin Turner, the electric atmosphere in Philly, the record-setting five homers, and the significance of game three in the World Series. Later, New York Mets manager Buck Showalter joins to discuss how October baseball is a roll of the dice, how locked in he is to this year’s World Series, and his opinion on lineup projections. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss an exciting pair of games that has the World Series knotted at 1-1, what happened to Zack Wheeler in Game 2, the Phillies punching back in Game 1, José Altuve turning it around quickly, sticky stuff questions with Framber Valdez and the Royals hiring Matt Quatraro as manager. Then, new Texas Rangers manager Bruce Bochy stops by to talk about the whole world weighing in on decisions made while managing in the Fall Classic, why the crowd isn’t a huge factor at this point in the postseason, his return to the dugout and the Rangers’ free agency plans. Later, Sarah Langs on her belief in something that’s unquantifiable, Yuli Gurriel avoiding strikeouts and Wheeler’s drop in velocity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster discuss Hembo’s Phillies delirium, how Rob Thomson lined up his pitching and the biggest home-field advantage in baseball history. Next, Tigers and former Astros manager A.J. Hinch stops by to talk about the buzz in Houston, what Astro fans ask when they recognize him, if he’d rather pitch to Alex Bregman or Yordan Álvarez, and why he’s rooting for J.T. Realmuto. Then, Astros broadcaster Steve Sparks on how the Astros assembled a complete pitching staff, needing to keep the Phillies in the ballpark and how José Altuve gets back on track. Later, Karl Ravech on David Stearns stepping away as head of baseball operations with the Brewers and what games one and two of the World Series hinge on. Finally, Sarah Langs on Justin Verlander’s 12th postseason start and Jean Segura playing in his first postseason. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Passan and Buster start by examining the Astros’ weakness and the Phillies' path to a World Series championship. Then, they discuss their early feel for free agency including the Giants spending big, if the Orioles should be in the shortstop market, Texas being on everyone and the Cardinals looking for an elite starter. Later, Sarah Langs on which great pitcher is comparable to the Astros’ pitching staff, Dusty Baker, and the difference between the Astros and Phillies’ regular season wins. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian hops on to break down how the baseball gods favored the Phillies, Bryce Harper embracing the heart and soul of Philly, and the Houston dominating New York. Next, Tim and Buster discuss the Yankees’ post-season failure tax, if Judge will re-sign, and the impact Bruce Bochy will have on the Rangers. Then, voice of the Phillies Scott Franzke joins to share the evolution of NLCS MVP Harper as a leader, the improvements in the bullpen, and the electric atmosphere in Philly. Later, Sarah Langs joins to share ultimately what led to the Yankees’ demise, Harper’s career capping moment, and the Phillies’ record after 50 games. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs and Buster discuss how much of the ALCS is Houston dominance versus New York futility, the Astros’ tight run differential, Framber Valdez’s swings and misses, and Joe Musgrove thriving on the road. Then, Karl Ravech stops by to talk about watching games in Bristol with people who really know baseball, the Astros all looking at iPads in the dugout, the Yankees roster transitioning at a bad time, what they would do with the Yankee lineup and Ravy giving a slight edge to the Phillies in the NLCS. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eduardo Pérez joins Buster to break down Justin Verlander’s rocky start to finding his groove last night, the uphill battle for the Yankees, Dusty Baker flexing bullpen muscles, and the coin flip in the NLCS. Then, Buster surprises Eduardo with a game of musical chairs of possible landing spots for elite short stops Dansby Swanson, Carlos Correa, Xander Bogaerts, and Trea Turner. Next, Sarah Langs hops on to analyze Josh Hader’s first 100 mph strikeout of his career, Jeremy Peña becoming the fifth rookie in postseason history with three extra base hits in a game, the strikeout difference between the Yankees and Astros, and give her answers for shortstop musical chairs. Later, Hembo hops on to share the importance of ownership, the value of the trade deadline, if the Astros own the Yankees, and to compares Justin Verlander to Tom Brady. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs and Buster talk about how for the first time it feels like the Phillies could win the World Series, Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton’s home runs in winner-take-all games and Kyle Schwarber’s 488-foot blast. Then, Boog Sciambi discusses being called “The Legend” in a hotel lobby, Schwarber’s no-doubter and his personality, Manny Machado needing to stay in the zone, if the Astros can make the ALCS a short series, Shohei Ohtani's drawing a line and the Dodgers hoping Clayton Kershaw will return. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs joins Buster to discuss the Nola brothers going head-to-head in the NLCS, starters pitching on short rest, two playoff rounds being played on the same day, and the (not real) momentum of the Phillies and Padres. Then, Jessica Mendoza on MLB trying to get game five of the ALDS in last night, what changes about the pitching between these teams, if Shane Bieber will be available tonight, x-factors for Philadelphia and San Diego, and what the Dodgers need to upgrade in the offseason. Later, Braves manager Brian Snitker calls in to talk about if he watches the playoffs after getting bounced, how Ronald Acuña Jr. was affected by his knee this season, rooting for Rob Thomson and the most difficult thing about managing in the playoffs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs joins Buster to discuss the quality of the weekend crowds, the Padres beating the Dodgers after losing every regular season series, the Astros-Mariners 18-inning affair and Sarah’s favorite stat about winner-take-all games. Then, Tim Kurkjian stops by to talk about the major cracks that led to this week's biggest upsets, questioning if the Dodgers are a dynasty, and the circle of trust between Aaron Boone and his bullpen. Later, Padres’ coach Ryan Flaherty on the emotion in the clubhouse after defeating Los Angeles in the NLDS, the difference between a young Manny Machado in Baltimore versus 30-year-old Manny in San Diego, the best way to communicate information to players, and his takeaways from working and playing under great managers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs and Buster talk about the Astros’ winning ways, Yordan Álvarez with another home run while his team trailed and the Phillies winning despite being out-homered. Then, Karl Ravech discusses Buster’s Álvarez comparison, Dansby Swanson’s catch and Manny Machado’s maturity. Next, Hembo on the average fastball velocity in the playoffs, Framer Valdez’s diabolical curveball and why Carlos Correa is the prize of another loaded shortstop class. Later, Mandy Bell on how the rainout actually helps the Guardians’ rotation, the most important bat in Cleveland’s lineup and the half marathon she’s running for Sarah. You can donate to support Sarah here.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs and Buster discuss if Austin Riley or Dansby Swanson had the better catch, Josh Hader nailing down a four-out save, the Guardians needing to find other ways to score and the importance of Seattle scoring first. Then, Joe Maddon stops by to discuss Yu Darvish keeping his composure, the Padres being tired of getting beat up by the Dodgers, his new book “The Book of Joe,” the differences from managing through the decades, the theory and reality or analytics and if this conversation will hurt his chances to manage again. Later, Dodger broadcaster Jaime Jarrín on retiring after 64 years in the booth, his favorite moment that he called, how he came up with his home run call, Fernando Valenzuela’s incredible 1981 season and baseball coursing through his veins. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs joins Buster to discuss the decision to use Robbie Ray as a reliever, pressure-packed moments in the playoffs and plays the numbers game. Plus, Buster surprises her with a message from Bruce Bochy. Then, Detroit Tigers manager AJ Hinch hops on to break down managing under high-pressure playoff moments, where he lands on using starters as relievers, Yordan Alvarez being the best pure hitter in baseball, the burden of Garret Cole as a Yankee ace, and the vision for the future of the Tigers. Later, Todd Radom joins to discuss Buck Showalter's decision to check Joe Musgrove's suspiciously shiny ears and administers the weekly quiz.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alex Cora and Buster discuss Cora watching his brother Joey coach third base for the Mets, the Mets losing in the first round after winning 101 games, and the toughest and easiest things about managing in the postseason. Then, Cora tells Sarah Langs what she taught him while they worked together, before Langs plays The Numbers Game. Later, Boog Sciambi on the Guardians’ defense, how the Padres can beat the Dodgers and the sticky substance problem baseball has created. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss an exciting Wild Card weekend, Tim’s tough time getting through the border from Toronto, Joe Musgrove’s smart outing, Buck Showalter calling for a substance check, the Padres figuring it out, something special happening in Seattle, the similar dynamics at play in the San Diego-Los Angeles and Seattle-Houston series, and Buster driving the Guardians-over-the-Yankees bandwagon. Then, Sarah Langs stops by to share her thoughts on Musgrove allowing one hit, the 14 scoreless innings between the Guardians and Rays, and the Mariners’ epic comeback. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs joins Buster and Karl Ravech to talk about publicly announcing her ALS diagnosis, the outpouring of support from the baseball community and what it is about baseball that she loves. Then, Langs plays The Numbers Game with thoughts on Juan Soto being the young veteran, out-homering your opponent, Max Scherzer’s 10K games in the postseason and which of the wild card weekend teams has the best chance to make the World Series. Next, Ravech on the Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon with Mets-Padres, the Mets’ pitching strategy, the Soto antidote, Toronto’s home field advantage and his concern for Shane McClanahan. Later, Hembo makes his to triumphant return to the pod to discuss parenting twin girls, the Rays-Guardians rock fight, the Phillies’ starting pitching advantage and his lack of confidence in San Diego. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jesse Rogers joins Buster to breakdown Aaron Judge’s historic achievement, settle the debate of if Barry Bonds is still the home run king with Judge’s clean season milestone, project what Judge’s next contract will look like, and give his picks for the wildcard games. Then, Todd Radom joins to administer the weekly quiz and share the final phantom franchise of the season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss a huge weekend in baseball, if the Guardians are true contenders in the AL, Dansby Swanson’s handling big moments, how the Mets will use Jacob deGrom heading into the postseason, the Mariners returning to the playoffs, Albert Pujols hitting 702 and Tony La Russa announcing his retirement. Plus, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

NBA superstar Charles Barkley joins Buster to discuss why Aaron Judge is so special, how Judge bets on himself, debate if players caught in the steroid era should be considered the greatest, and what he would do if he was Judge's advisor. Then, Karl Ravech hops on to discuss why Judge's record is nothing but joy for the sport, the memorable moments between Judge and his mom, and the most sincere form of respect shown to Judge from other players. Plus, they discuss the "it's Until death does us part" mentality of Mets fans. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dan Shulman joins Buster to break down the Blue Jays being one of the top five offenses despite being right-handed heavy, the pressure on Aaron Judge to end his drought and hit 61 homers, and preparing to call the historic home run from the visiting rival Aaron Judge. Then, Alden Alden Gonzalez joins to break down the best remaining race in baseball the NL East, covering the game where Pujols hits 700 home run, Pujols’s impact on the Dodgers, and the state of the Dodgers Bullpen. Later, Todd Radom joins to walk through the process of uniform changes, share this week’s Phantom Franchise, and administer the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Passan joins Buster on Baggage Claim Monday to discuss Albert Pujols hitting his 700th career home run in Los Angeles, sharing a story about Alex Rodriguez seeking Pujols for advice, and the chase continues for Aaron Judge’s 61st home run. Then, they discuss if Aaron Judge is having the greatest season of all time, Judge’s future contract, and Don Mattingly’s tenure as Marlins manager comes to an end. Plus, everyone knows about Judge’s homers, but his teammates weigh in with Buster about his other skills that separate him as a player. Later, Sarah Langs joins to discuss Pujols’ season, Dodgers winning their 106th game, and if the Guardians can win the world series.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech joins Buster to break down Aaron Judge’s hunt for 62 homers, discuss if Judge is having the greatest single season ever, breaking down the Royals firing Dayton Moore, and share what team has the highest steaks in the NL East. Then, Jess Mendoza joins discussing her take on Dave Robert's comments on Craig Kimbrel's performance, how she almost crashed her car following Aaron Judge’s historic year, and shares who her key player is in the Mariners playoff race. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mike Trout hops on the podcast today to discuss his seven-game homer streak, Aaron Judge’s incredible year, the difficulty of being a hitter in this era, and comparing Ohtani's performance last year to this season. Then, play-by-play man Michael Kay joins to discuss calling a historic performance by Aaron Judge, how is preparing for a potential Judge record-breaking game, and his favorite call of a milestone baseball moment. Later, Todd Radom joins for this week’s phantom franchise and administers the weekly quiz.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Mike Trout and Tim’s disinterest in talking about themselves, Aaron Judge hitting 60 home runs, why they think Judge will land in San Francisco this offseason, the upcoming musical chairs of shortstops, the NL East and the Guardians. Then, Buster talks to Freddie Freeman from the Dodgers’ clubhouse. Later, Sarah Langs on consecutive “sacs” in a game, Ahmed Rosario’s big Saturday and Hunter Green lighting up the radar gun. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech hops on to discuss the impact of Roberto Clemente Day in the MLB, the significance of the Roberto Clemente Award for the players, Sandy Alderson stepping down as president of the Mets, and if the Dodgers have the best 1-2-3 hitting combination in baseball history. Next, Jess Mendoza joins to share what Roberto Clemente means to her and how his legacy impacts her life. Then, she shares insight on how Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Trea Turner help each other and set the tone for being a teammate. Plus, they discuss who is the Astros' biggest threat in the American League, and should the Twins have pulled Joe Ryan seven innings into flirting with a no-hitter? Later, Aaron Boone discusses if Aaron Judge will hit at least 62 homers, why Judge is the AL MVP, and the possibility of Judge leaving the Yankees.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ESPN writer Marly Rivera hops on with Buster to discuss Aaron Judge’s path to breaking Roger Maris’ American League single-season record of 61 homers and his price tag to stay at the Yankees. Then, they discuss the Dodgers clinching the National League West and the Diamondbacks guarding their pool against the Dodgers' celebrations. Plus, they discuss the legacy of Albert Pujols and the impact of Eduardo Pérez stepping down from Puerto Rico’s World Baseball Classic team. Next, Manager of the Detroit Tigers A.J. Hinch joins to break down the American League, what’s next for the Tigers, the discipline of Aaron Judge, and discuss who benefits from the rule changes. Later, Todd Radom joins to share this week’s Phantom Franchise and administer the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Bo Bichette driving a hot Blue Jays team, why you don’t want to play the Mariners in the wild card, Derek Jeter not cracking Tim’s Mt. Rushmore of Yankees, the pitch clock, players recognizing the game needs an adjustment, the Dodgers fake-clinching the playoffs on Sunday and Mike Trout’s pregame texting routine. Then, Sarah Langs stops by to talk about the practical effects of the banning the shift, the Dodgers rolling into the postseason, Trout’s consecutive homers and more on Bichette. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster go through MLB’s rule changes one-by-one, whether they accomplish their goals and whether they actually like them. Then, Yankees play-by-play voice Michael Kay stops by to discuss the Kay Rod Cast of Sunday Night Baseball with Alex Rodriguez, Rodriguez and Jeter’s interaction on SNB, his thoughts on The Captain, why they think Jeter came across as angry in the docuseries, how concerned he is with the Yankees as they come down the stretch and Aaron Judge’s otherworldly season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Schoenfield and Todd Radom discuss Max Scherzer heading to the IL, Oneil Cruz’s line drive into the Allegheny River, if they’re believers in the strength of schedule metric coming down the stretch, if the Mets are in trouble, the Phillies chugging along toward the playoffs, and the Mariners’ nine good relief pitchers. Then Todd Radom stops by to offer his thoughts on Buster’s Xander Boegarts to the Dodgers-hypothetical, deliver the Phantom Franchise and administer the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss the momentum and deep rotation of the Astros, the potential of the biggest collapse in baseball history, and Shohei Ohtani complicating the equation in the MVP race. Then, Sarah Langs on whether Harry Styles spit on Chris Pine, Bo Bichette’s three home run game, Aaron Judge’s 54th home run, Zach Gallen’s scoreless streak, and the New York teams losing their division leads. Later, Marly Rivera talks to Carlos Correa. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss the Dodgers and Padres playing on Sunday Night Baseball, the Mets taking two of three games from the Dodgers, Brandon Nimmo’s home run robbery, if Karl would take Michael Harris II or Spencer Strider for NL rookie of the year, Gunnar Henderson impressing for the Orioles after his call-up and Shohei Ohtani putting a dent in Aaron Judge’s AL MVP chances. Then, Jessica Mendoza talks about the Dodgers’ bullpen, Edwin Díaz putting the past behind him, if she’s buying the Cardinals and how she would advise the incoming owner of the Angels on what to do with Ohtani. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jesse Rogers and Buster discuss Jesse’s routine interaction with Tony La Russa before he missed the game for an unspecified medical issue, La Russa sucking the oxygen out of the White Sox conversation in Chicago, how the White Sox might proceed into next season, Albert Pujols chipping away at his 700th home run, if the Mets are uniquely setup well for a short playoff series, Timmy Trumpet ready to perform live for an Edwin Diaz appearance, things not looking good for Shane McClanahan, Justin Verlander hitting the IL and which teams the guys think can win the World Series. Then, Buster talks to Kevin Plawecki from the Red Sox clubhouse about game planning for Aaron Judge and what’s different about him this year. Later, Todd Radom shares the Phantom Franchise and administers the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian joins Buster to discuss shaving lightning bolt into his hair if the Cardinals win the World Series, Aaron Judge hitting home run No. 50, the Mariners signing Julio Rodríguez to a monster deal, if Atlanta and St. Louis could challenge the Dodgers, Adam Wainwright mic’d up during his pregame warmup, Sam Kennedy’s vote of confidence for Alex Cora and Chaim Bloom, and the MLBPA advocating for minor leaguers to unionize. Then, listen to the entirety of Wainwright’s warmup with David Cone from Sunday Night Baseball. Later, Sarah Langs on Mookie Betts’ multi-home run games from the leadoff spot, the Dodgers’ run differential, Albert Pujols’ pitcher-related milestone and old timers’ day at Citi Field. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo joins Buster to discuss being on the verge of fatherhood, lineup protection, Albert Pujols’ renaissance, a 39-year-old pitcher at the peak of his powers and Bryce Harper’s return. Then, Karl Ravech stops by to talk about Hawaii’s dominance in the Little League World Series, Paul Goldschmidt in the hunt for the triple crown, if the NL Central race is officially over, whether the Red Sox are dead or alive and Nestor Cortez’s groin issue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alden González joins Buster to discuss Arte Moreno taking offers for the Angels. Then, they discuss the criticism of Moreno for the lack of investment in player development, the failure to run a linear chain of command, and getting too involved with baseball operations. Next, they discuss the need for the next owner to build a team around Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani. Then, they discuss Fernando Tatís Jr. apologizing after testing for PED use, his upcoming shoulder surgery, and how he can rebuild the trust of the organization and fanbase. Plus, who is the MVP in the American League? Later, Todd Radom hops on for this week’s Phantom Franchise and administers the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Tim just missing out on talking to George W. Bush, Alex Cora going down the hill in Williamsport, how Brandon Hyde characterizes this year's Orioles, the Red Sox giving the game away on Sunday, Aaron Boone and Gerrit Cole’s theatrics, Wander Franco’s hand soreness, the Padres removing Josh Hader from the closer role, and if it’s too early to talk about the Dodgers’ magic number. Then, Sarah Langs stops by with notes on Albert Pujols’ multi-home run games, Riley Greene’s home run off of Shohei Ohtani and Sunday’s crazy game between the Mets and Phillies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Howard Bryant and Jeff Passan discuss if anyone cares about Fernando Tatis Jr.’s PED suspension, why Howard wasn’t sold on the Yankees’ hot start, MLB deciding to not play World Series games on Sundays and a story from Howard’s book “Rickey” that didn’t make the cut. Then, Foolish Baseball stops by to discuss his love of Adley Rutschman, how he got his start making baseball videos, the Braves, how pitch clock will making a big difference in the game, Vinnie Pasquantino and his thoughts on Weezer’s iconic albums. Later, Hembo on Alex Bregman returning to form and looking better than ever, and why the Guardians already “won” the Francisco Lindor trade. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs and Mandy Bell discuss the surging Guardians, the team’s “never say die” attitude and youthful inexperience, the strange AL Central, the White Sox revival, and if they jinxed the Mets. Then, Jessica Mendoza stops by to talk about calling the Little League World Series, the Braves signing Michael Harris II to an eight-year contract and Alex Anthopoulos continuing to impress. Later, MLB.com’s Juan Toribio on Walker Buehler’s season-ending surgery, the level of concern with Craig Kimbrel and the expectation for Dustin May’s return. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech joins Tim Kurkjian to discuss the two hour and fifteen minute Yankees-Red Sox game on Sunday Night Baseball, Boston doing a good job pitching to Aaron Judge, Fernando Tatis Jr.’s gets an 80-game PED suspension and the relatability of the Little League World Series. Then, Kyle Peterson calls in en route to Williamsport to talk about teaching kids how to rob home runs, how players at the LLWS have changed through the years, how Mo’ne Davis transformed the country, watching the Japanese players take the infield and what will be served at Kyle annual cookout.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss the Tigers firing GM Al Avila, Detroit owner Chris Ilitch taking no responsibility for the state of the club, if the Yankees need home field advantage in the playoffs, the difference between the AL and NL wild card pictures, and Vaughn Grissom’s rookie debut for the Braves. Then, Hembo has an NFL comparison for teams not pitching around Aaron Judge, explains how Adley Rutschman’s among the best players in baseball and explores a possible blue blood final four. Later, Jessica Mendoza on her hometown involvement with the Little League World Series, the Dodgers’ offensive production, Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman’s friendship, and Luis Castillo. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Schoenfield and Buster discuss a big Mariners’ win, the Yankees’ base running blunders, Gerrit Cole’s bounce back performance, Pirates rookie Rodolfo Castro losing his phone on the field, the Astros tying the Yankees for best record in the AL, the Dodgers winning in another blowout and Keith Hernandez refusing to call Phillies’ games. Then, Todd Radom stops by to share his thoughts on Chris Sale’s bike accident, deliver the Phantom Franchise and administer the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Buster’s gripe about teams not utilizing intentional walks, if Edwin Díaz could win the Cy Young, the the Dodgers throttling the Padres, why San Diego shouldn't panic, the Orioles, Pete Rose stepping in it again, Jason Heyward’s legacy, Dennis Eckersley is leaving the booth and Tim’s Mount Rushmore of baseball broadcasters. Then, Sarah Langs stops by with notes on two 101 mph pitches in the same game, Aaron Judge continuing to crush and the Dodgers’ eight-straight wins by multiple runs. Later, Juan Soto was mic'd up on Sunday Night Baseball. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster is joined by Karl Ravech to discuss the legacy of Vin Scully, their wild-card round predictions, and Derek Jeter’s reaction to Buster’s comments in The Captain. Next, Jess Mendoza hops on to share her time with Vin Scully, how the Dodgers broadcast is honoring his memory and gives the level of concern about Clayton Kershaw’s injury. Plus, Hembo on Vin Scully, the Padres as a science experiment, the new postseason format driving the trade market, and the best chess player in baseball. Later, Todd Radom stops by to talk about the Red Sox at a crossroads, share the Phantom Franchise and administer the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster, Tim Kurkjian and Jeff Passan convene in Bristol to look back at a wild trade deadline. They discuss the Padres’ big move for Juan Soto, A.J. Preller sending it, which teams got better late, the weird dynamic with the Cubs and Wilson Contreras, the disconnect in Boston, the Orioles sticking to the plan, the improved Astros and the Reds’ suddenly restocked farm system. Later, Sarah Langs muses about San Diego’s lineup, plays The Numbers Game with notes on the Soto trade and shares if she’s bitter the Mets didn’t go big. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Aaron Judge going absolutely nuts, if there’s a world in which the Yankees let Judge walk, the Mariners scoring Luis Castillo, the Rays needing a bat and what to expect in Jacob deGrom’s return. Then, Jesse Rogers stops by to talk about Juan Soto muddying the trade market, why he thinks it’s Dodgers or bust for Soto, if the Giants will trade Carlos Rodón, the market for Wilson Contreras and how much money Boston is willing to eat to make a deal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

USA Today’s Bob Nightengale joins Buster to discuss the chances Shohei Ohtani gets traded, how Ohtani would fill two needs for the Cardinals, suitors for Juan Soto, where Luis Castillo will land, if the Orioles will make moves, the Giants being in no-man’s land and the market for Wilson Contreras. Then, Karl Ravech on Mike Rizzo, the Angels facing the reality of needing to trade Ohtani, Andrew Benintendi, to the Yankees and the Red Sox caught between a rock and a hard place. Plus, a round of “Flesh Wound or Fatal” with Hembo. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Passan and Buster dive into the latest on the Juan Soto trade market, including the Padres’ motivation and the risk for the Rays. Then, the guys enter a rapid-fire discussion what they’re hearing around the league as the Tuesday deadline approaches. Later, Todd Radom wants the Red Sox to sell, shares this week’s Phantom Franchise and administers the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster Olney discuss Tim’s induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame, his interactions with other Hall of Famers, the surprise lunch celebration and how many time he practiced his speech. Then, they get into the latest on where Juan Soto may land, and what they think the Guardians, Orioles, White Sox and Red Sox will do at the trade deadline. Later, Sarah Langs stops by to talk about getting emotional celebrating Tim in Cooperstown, Soto’s walks, Aaron Judge’s multi-home run games and this week’s Subway Series. Plus, Tim’s Hall of Fame speech, in its entirety. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are many ways to describe ESPN baseball analyst Tim Kurkjian: Brilliant. Hilarious. Competitive. And above all, passionate. Passionate about the game of baseball. But as of tomorrow, there’s another way to describe Tim Kurkjian: Hall of Famer. This weekend, as baseball inducts a new class into the Hall of Fame, Kurkjian will receive the Career Excellence Award from the Baseball Writers Association of America. So today, we celebrate the life and career of our favorite baseball nerd: the story of a short, skinny kid who took a love of baseball, and not much else, and made it all the way to Cooperstown. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo joins Buster to break down why the downfall of viewership for the All-Star game, updates on deGrom's injury, and possible landing spots for Juan Soto. Next, Joon Lee hops on to talk about his insights from talking with Derek Jeter on Instagram Live, memorable moments from The Captain, and Jeter’s vulnerability and depth shown in the documentary. Plus, Buster answers your Bleacher Tweets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss the Home Run Derby, Julio Rodríguez announcing his arrival, Pete Alonso’s off night, Albert Pujols stealing the show, Juan Soto looking comfortable on the field and what Buster’s hearing on the possibility of a Soto trade. Then, Kylie McDaniel on the MLB Draft, the betting odds shifting before the first pick and the curious case of Kumar Rocker. Later, Todd Radom stops by to share his thoughts on the All-Star uniforms, deliver the Phantom Franchise and administer the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss how Tim is going to handle being inducted into the Hall of Fame, if Buster’s been cut from Tim’s speech, Juan Soto rejecting a contract offer from the Nationals, D.C. exploring trade options for Soto, a Scott Boras-Texas Rangers-Kumar Rocker conspiracy theory, what Tim remembers from seeing Jackson Holliday as a kid and All-Star Game dropouts. Then, Sarah Langs stops by to deliver Home Run Derby notes on Pete Alonso, Julio Rodríguez and Soto. Later, Dodgers broadcaster Tim Neverett on his new book “COVID Curveball: An Inside View of the 2020 Los Angeles Dodgers World Championship Season,” keeping a diary during the 2020 season, the weirdness of the Justin Turner situation after winning the World Series, if he thinks the Dodgers will get involved with Soto and why he doesn’t think the Red Sox will be aggressive at the trade deadline. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss the popularity and importance of the Home Run Derby, Ronald Acuña Jr. wanting to show he’s back, the divisional rivalry within the Derby, which team is the hottest in baseball, the steel cage match in the AL East for the Wild Card spots, the Yankees needing to make an addition at the deadline, and the Blue Jays firing Charlie Montoyo. Later, Jeff Fletcher, author of “Sho-Time: The Inside Story of Shohei Ohtani and the Greatest Baseball Season Ever Played,” stops by to talk about the Angels’ initial rules around when Ohtani could pitch and hit, when Jeff knew Ohtani was going to have a monster 2021 season, how Ohtani handled that season behind the scenes, if there’s a future for two-way players, Ohtani’s relationship with Billy Eppler and speculation about Ohtani’s future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Schoenfield joins Buster to discuss the Orioles’ nine-game winning streak and if Baltimore should add to the team at the trade deadline, Dave’s Mariners charging into the playoff picture, if Albert Pujols could get into a groove at the Home Run Derby, who they want to see added to the All-Star rosters, the “pie-slice” experiment, and Ozzie Guillen criticizing Tony La Russa. Then, Buster talks to top MLB draft prospect Elijah Green about his plans for draft day, which teams he’s hearing from, why he quit football at age 14, Mike Trout’s defense, his dad’s advice from playing in the NFL and the best bat flipper in the league. Later, Todd sets the record straight on Sara’s quiz wins, delivers this week’s quiz and shares the Phantom Franchise. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster is joined by newly elected Hall of Famer Tim Kurkjian to discuss the Orioles' eight game winning streak, their observations about the All-Star roster, which names would make this year's Home Run Derby the best one yet, and the Yankees massive lead in the AL East. Then, they discuss the series of the season and if Tim has changed since his Hall of Fame election. Plus, Sarah Langs joins to play the numbers game and discuss who got snubbed in this year's All-Star roster. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss whether it was ok for Chris Sale to destroy a TV after his rehab start in Worcester, if they’re concerned with Gerrit Cole, Hal Steinbrenner muzzling Aaron Judge contract talks in public, where Shohei Ohtani may sign once his contract with the Angels is up and being at the front of the Spencer Strider bandwagon. Then, Hembo with a second half preview and why the Mike Trout-Ohtani Angels are the ultimate baseball tragedy. Later, Jessica Mendoza fresh off of her first time hosting Get Up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Passan and Buster discuss the state of starting pitching around the league, its declining relevance and the grim expectations for the position. Then, they get into the trade deadline including the Twins and Cardinals’ dire need for a starting pitcher, the Dodgers prioritizing bullpen help, what the Yankees really need, off-the-chart interest for Andrew Benintendi, and if the Pirates will move Bryan Reynolds. Later, Sara confronts Todd Radom about the quiz standings. Finally, Todd shares the Phantom Franchise and administers this week’s quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss the Twins’ 8-5 triple play, what’s going to happen with Juan Soto, the extra playoff spot adding intrigue to this season’s trade deadline, the Cardinals’ clear need for a front of the rotation starter and if the Astros could run down the Yankees for the best record in the AL. Then, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game with notes on St. Louis’ position players occupying the top-three in WAR, Julio Rodríguez’s 15th home run and Houston winning on back-to-back walk off home runs. Later, interviews from the weekend with Oliver Marmol and Kevin Cash. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss Mr. Sunday Night, an intriguing Cardinals team, Freddie Freeman firing his agent and the subsequent fallout, and rumblings of a Juan Soto deal. Then, Hembo swings by to talk about Sandy Alcantara bucking trends, the best futures bet in Vegas, Aaron Judge’s strike zone, if the Phillies can overcome Bryce Harper’s injury and the Orioles’ first winning month since 2017. Plus, Jessica Mendoza on the AL MVP race, Kyle Schwarber torching the month of June and Chris Taylor’s clinical throw to get Trent Grisham out at home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Xavier Scruggs and Buster discuss the Blue Jays’ walk-off win over the Red Sox, the conversation in the Red Sox clubhouse with Tanner Houck back in Boston, Freddie Freeman firing his agent, if Phil Nevin’s suspension is MLB cracking down on retaliation, the worst fight Xavier was ever in and how the Padres should deploy Fernando Tatis Jr. when he returns. Later, Todd Radom shares his thoughts on the Red Sox, delivers the Phantom Franchise and administers the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss an exciting weekend series between the Yankees and Astros, Houston no-hitting New York on Saturday, Aaron Judge’s walk-off home run, Judge settling with the Yankees, Freddie Freeman’s emotional return to Atlanta, the Dodgers’ gentle reminder for Freeman, Bryce Harper’s broken thumb, and the brawl between Seattle and Anaheim. Later, Sarah Langs on if she’s ever been in a physical altercation, Shohei Ohtani’s 118 mph home run, why the Yankees’ 16 hit-less innings bodes well for them and Brusdar Graterol throwing heat three days in a row. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster dive deep on Aaron Judge’s arbitration hearing and play a game of “Reminds Me Of…”. Then, Karl Ravech stops by to discuss the College World Series final between Ole Miss and Oklahoma, Freddie Freeman’s return to Atlanta, the Yankees’ magic formula, Judge’s walk off hit against the Astros, and if Yordan Álvarez will participate in the Home Run Derby. Later, Buster’s conversation with Adam Wainwright on the intricacies of his curveball grip, working on his command, learning pitching from his brother, strike percentage, what’s next for him and if he’s thinking about the Hall of Fame. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Boog Sciambi and Buster discuss the struggling Cubs, Oneil Cruz showing off his tools, Boog’s indifference to immaculate innings and hitting for the cycle, Max Scherzer giving the quote of the year, how the Mets could up the price for Aaron Judge this offseason, Jack Flaherty’s weak outing, and the Brewers’ vulnerability. Then, Todd Radom stops by to talk about his trip to Toronto, share this week’s Phantom Franchise and administer the quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss the likely end of Lorenzo Cain’s career, their concern over a raft of injury news, Tony La Russa and Dusty Baker’s relationship, the Nationals retiring Ryan Zimmerman’s number, and a fan negotiating with the Astros to give up J.J. Matijevic’s first home run ball. Later, Sarah Langs calls in from Citi Field to talk about her go-to ballpark food, Jack Suwinski’s three home run afternoon, Sandy Alcántara going deep into games, and two players hitting grand slams for their first MLB home runs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss the College World Series, Chris Sale’s injury update, why the Red Sox are feeling good, the AL East teams occupying the Wild Card slots, everything and nothing changing for the Astros, if the Astros’ cheating scandal will impact José Altuve’s Hall of Fame case, and which teams are the biggest non-Yankee contenders to nab Aaron Judge in free agency. Then, Hembo stops by to talk about how the Yankees can own this summer, Manny Machado’s Hall of Fame track and the unicorn in our midst. Later, Jessica Mendoza on Yordan Álvarez thriving and Alex Bregman struggling, Dansby Swanson’s improved hitting, and the Padres’ seven-man rotation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alden Gonzalez and Buster discuss if the Astros’ immaculate innings matter, Tyler Anderson’s near no-hitter and mid-career emergence, if Walker Buehler returns this season, the Dodgers’ early vulnerability, Manny Machado’s evolution as a leader, and the update on Fernando Tatis Jr.’s injury. Then, director of ESPN’s Derek Jeter docuseries “The Captain” Randy Wilkins stops by to talk about Jeter’s reaction to the final product, telling a balanced story about Jeter’s life, not shying away from difficult moments, coming up under Spike Lee, interviewing Michael Jordan for the doc, what he heard from other shortstops about Jeter and his prediction on what’s next for the former Yankee captain. Later, Todd Radom shares this week’s Phantom Franchise and administers the quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Ozzie Albies breaking his foot, the Braves’ 12-game winning streak, Buster previously declaring the NL East over, the Padres moving into a tie with the Dodgers in the NL West, why Alek Manoah is like a position player, the Cardinals following Paul Goldschmidt’s lead, José Ramírez’s season so far, Tony La Russa explaining his decision to walk Trea Turner, if the Angelos family feud could restrict the Orioles’ spending and Mike Trout on the mic during Sunday Night Baseball. Then, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game with notes on Matt Carpenter, Joe Musgrove, the wins streaks in the NL East and Byron Buxton. Plus, highlights from Trouts’ night on the mic, and Phil Nevin with Mike Couzens. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster discuss if Tony La Russa made the right decision walking Trea Turner and the significance of his coaching career. Next, Jess Mendoza breaks down the importance of the waited runs created stat and the impact of walk-up songs. Then, Karl Ravech joins to debate the value of analytics, and they discuss the family feud between the Angelos brothers fighting over control of the Baltimore Orioles. Later, Buster answers this week's Bleacher Tweets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Schoenfield and Buster discuss the Angels firing Joe Maddon, what ultimately led to his ouster, if Maddon will manage again, Aaron Judge’s home run pace, the Yankees doubling their opponents’ home run total, Michael Kopech or Alex Manoah and Michael Harris’ amazing grab. Then, Todd Radom stops by to talk about Buster’s trip to Fenway for a concert, deliver the Phantom Franchise and administer the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Tim’s gigantic life win, Patrick Wisdom on the mic for Sunday Night Baseball, the Cardinals’ balance of youth and experience, the Yankees continuing to win with fixable problems, the Braves’ winning streak, the Angels’ long streak, the Phillies firing Joe Girardi, and Rays players refusing to wear rainbow-colored logos for “Pride Night.” Then, Sarah Langs stops by to talk about covering the 2016 World Series for ESPN, Andrew McCutcheon snapping his 0-32 streak with a walk-off single, the Yankees’ perfect game-bids and Noah Syndergaard’s struggles. Plus, Boog Sciambi with David Ross and Oliver Marmol. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss if Adam Wainwright should hang it up, the Hall of Fame case for David Cone, Tim Kurkjian’s piece about his brother Matt, the Yankees sweeping a double-header against the Angels, if Aaron Judge could hit 60 home runs and a raft of injury news. Later, Jesse Rogers talks about why he’s less optimistic than most when it comes to the White Sox, Josh Donaldson’s hurt feelings, Christopher Morel’s it-factor, when Wilson Contreras could move on from the Cubs, and Grayson Rodriguez’s lat injury and the Orioles manipulating his service time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The ceremonial first pitch is a tradition almost as old as baseball itself, with presidents, celebrities and non-MLB athletes taking to the mound to aim for home plate. But the only person who may truly care about any first pitch…is the one throwing it, with the gut-wrenching feeling that they might biff. Our very own Mina Kimes will be in that position soon, throwing a first pitch for her beloved Seattle Mariners. So we called up MLB Insider Jeff Passan and enlisted legendary pitching coach Tom House to help us understand just what Mina’s getting into. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joon Lee and Buster discuss Joey Votto’s improbable Fenway feat, the Red Sox continuing to struggle, the Mets’ across the board competence, if the Phillies are DEAD OR ALIVE, Derek Jeter joining social media and Colorado’s City Connect uniforms. Then, Todd Radom stops by to deliver the Phantom Franchise and administer the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster takes a look at the Joc Peterson-Tommy Pham fantasy football feud. Then, Tim Kurkjian stops by to discuss Pederson vs. Pham and the weirdest stories he’s ever covered, the Phillies needing a defensive shakeup, if the NL East race is already over, Jacob deGrom’s shoulder, Paul Goldschmidt’s hot May, the Rangers creeping toward .500, Gabe Kapler’s national anthem protest, and what the Yankees should do with Joey Gallo. Later, Sarah Langs has notes on Nick Plummer’s first career starts, Jesús Sánchez’s 496 foot moon shot at Coors Field and Mookie Betts’ 12 home runs in May. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jessica Mendoza and Buster discuss Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hitting a bomb off Shohei Ohtani, a home run Jessica that still revels in, Mookie Betts not being so hard on himself, Freddie Freeman finding his power and the poor state of facilities for women on coaching staffs across the league. Then, Karl Ravech stops by to talk about Pete Alonso on the mic for Sunday Night Baseball and if he’ll defend his Home Run Derby title, the Rowan Wick-Joey Votto feud, and the Red Sox’s offensive turnaround. Later, Hembo on the Dylan Cease hype-train, handicapping the Aaron Judge sweepstakes and Adley Rutschman wearing No. 35. Finally, listen to part of Bomani Jones’ conversation with Tim Anderson from The Right Time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss how they’ve come around on Joc Pederson, if we’ll see more offense as the weather turns, Josh Donaldson’s one-game suspension for calling Tim Anderson “Jackie,” Rob Manfred’s lack of leadership in the Donaldson decision, most disappointing teams to start the season and Buster’s Home Run Derby gimmick. Then, Todd Radom stops by to deliver the Phantom Franchise and administer the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Passan and Buster discuss Josh Donaldson calling Tim Anderson “Jackie,” why Donaldson hasn’t issued a mea culpa, what to expect when Trevor Bauer goes before an arbitrator to appeal his suspension, the Orioles calling up Adley Rutschman, the Yankees’ in flux bullpen and who is currently the best player in baseball. Then, Sarah Langs stops by to talk about who she’d pick as the Yankees closer, Johnny Cueto’s resurgence and the Dodgers’ struggles in close games. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss the Mets losing Max Scherzer, if the Braves miss Freddie Freeman’s at-bats, the White Sox seemingly being a sleeping giant, if the Yankees have a hole, AJ Pollack on the mic for Sunday Night Baseball and Build-A-Park at Camden Yards. Then, Hembo on Bryce Harper’s hat exchange, his newest baseball crush and the lack of precedent for a team potentially trading a talent like Juan Soto. Next, Bob Ryan stops by to talk about his new book “In Scoring Position: 40 Years of a Baseball Love Affair,” scoring every baseball game he’s attended since 1977, witnessing the confrontation between Billy Martin and Reggie Jackson, playing HORSE against Jackson at his house, Roger Clemens’ dominant performances, and a dinner with John Henry. Later, Jessica Mendoza on Oklahoma softball’s utter dominance, Tim Anderson igniting the White Sox’s comeback, the Diamondbacks’ progress and if Madison Bumgarner could be moved to the Mets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alden Gonzalez and Buster discuss the Red Sox as mid-season sellers, if it makes sense for the Nationals to trade Juan Soto, the Angels’ starting pitching and Shohei Ohtani’s fastball command. Then, Todd Radom stops by to talk about Boston being 13 games out of first place in the AL East, deliver the Phantom Franchise and administer the weekly quiz. Later, Buster talks to Jason Heyward about the baseball academy he’s building on Chicago’s West Side. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Albert Pujols making his pitching debut and how it looks like he’s having more fun than ever, Adam Wainwright’s stellar start, if Harrison Bader froze the glove from his Gold Glove season, and Shohei Ohanti’s amazing weekend. Then, Sarah Langs stops by to talk about the most fun moments in baseball so far this season, Pirates winning without registering a hit and Ohtani’s 100th home run. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Picture a baseball manager. Whatever image you’ve conjured in your mind of, say, a slightly out of shape, older man who’s all business - it probably doesn’t match Gabe Kapler, who manages the San Francisco Giants. Kapler is an enigma: an uber-buff fitness geek who only eats red meat. He sports well manicured facial hair and speaks in verse, sounding more like a poet than a baseball player. Tim Keown introduces us to Kapler, and how he’s rewriting baseball’s unwritten rules…and reimagining what it means to be a manager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian joins Buster for a special edition of Baggage Claim Monday on a Friday to discuss the Bryce Harper injury update and what this means for the future of the Phillies. Plus, they break down the impact of Aaron Judge and why he is an early leader for MVP. Then, Jessica Mendoza joins to give her take on the electronic strike zone and how it could bring in a younger viewership. Later, Buster answers your Bleacher Tweets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster looks back at last night’s Red Sox-Braves game where another blown strike call was a deciding factor in the outcome. Then, David Schoenfield stops by to discuss Reid Detmers’ no-hitter, Justin Verlander’s productive fastball, if Christian Yelich is turning a corner, the Yankees’ secondary players stepping up, Jim Crane’s hypocrisy and Buster’s idea to improve the umpiring situation. Later, Todd Radom delivers the Phantom Franchise and administers the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster Olney joins Karl Ravech to discuss why it felt like the Cubs had no chance against the Dodgers this weekend, if Los Angeles will run away with the National League, the number of teams on pace to win 100 games and Trevor Story getting booed in Boston. Then, Sarah Langs stops by to wax nostalgic about her time in Chicago, and talk about Walker Buehler’s career WHIP, Wilmer Flores’ bases loaded at-bats and Sunday’s bonanza of games. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster discuss the Phillies’ collapse against the Mets, if panic or patience is needed for Philadelphia, the White Sox and Red Sox, and the only thing holding back the Blue Jays’ lineup. Then, Tim Kurkjian stops by to talk about the Mets’ comeback, the Buck Showalter-Aaron Boone dynamic in New York, Madison Bumgarner getting tossed and the Reds’ unique ugliness. Later, Jessica Mendoza on a huge college softball series between Oklahoma and Oklahoma State this weekend, Shohei Ohtani’s terrific outing in Boston and the issues festering in the Red Sox clubhouse. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aaron Boone and Buster Olney discuss Boone’s unconscious superstitions while he’s on a winning streak, the energy in the Yankees’ clubhouse, why he wasn’t worried about Aaron Judge after he turned down New York's contract offer, his team’s defense and Dusty Baker. Then, David Schoenfield stops by to talk about Baker’s 2,000th managerial win, Brian Cashman’s offseason moves panning out, Judge’s torrid start, if the Blue Jays need to add depth to their lineup and which division race will be more fun: AL East or NL West? Later, Later, Todd Radom shares his thoughts on the worst stadiums he’s ever visited, delivers the Phantom Franchise and administers the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech joins Buster to discuss Francisco Lindor’s mic’d up performance on Sunday Night Baseball, the Mets’ six game lead in the NL East and the upcoming series against the Braves, Bryce Harper looking off, the Angels' beach head of pitching, the Red Sox finding themselves in a deep hole after losing a series in Baltimore, and if Trevor Bauer will play in MLB again. Later, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game with notes on Kevin Gausman not yet allowing a walk, Clayton Kershaw breaking the Dodgers’ all-time strikeout record and Max Scherzer’s swings-and-misses. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jessica Mendoza joins Buster to discuss calling Dodger games, the Braves activating Ronald Acuña Jr., concern for Gavin Lux, Eric Hosmer’s concentration and Joe West’s comments on Angel Hernandez. Then, Hembo drops by to defend his scorching hot Albert Pujols take, contextualize the Pirates and Orioles’ spending, and lay out how exactly Buck Showalter makes an impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Passan and Buster discuss Chris Bassitt’s tough words for MLB about the baseballs, the year-over-year changes to the balls, their scorching hot takes, why the Yankees letter was a nothingburger and how we haven’t yet seen the best of the Blue Jays. Then, Xavier Scruggs stops by to talk about the conversation in the Mets’ clubhouse after Pete Alonso was hit again, what the Mets’ pitching staff is doing so well thus far and Cody Bellinger hitting off speed pitches up the middle of the field. Later, Todd Radom shares his thoughts the umpires wearing logos on their uniforms, delivers the Phantom Franchise and administers the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Angel Hernandez’s strike zone and Kyle Schwarber’s meltdown, Bryce Harper wearing the mic for seven innings on Sunday Night Baseball, Eric Lauer’s rising velocity, Miguel Cabrera’s legacy after notching 3,000 hits, if Cabrera will be the last player to reach that milestone, Yankee fans throwing garbage on the field, and Eloy Jiménez going down. Then, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game with notes on Jazz Newsome and Ozzie Albies’ first-pitch home runs, Byron Buxton’s walk-off homer, Cody Bellinger, and Cabrera. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss Aaron Boone walking Miguel Cabrera, Bryce Harper on the mic for Sunday Night Baseball, the Phillies escaping a sweep in Colorado, the Brewers needing Christian Yelich to perform to become a complete team and attendance bottoming out in Oakland. Then, Hembo on why he’s upset about the lack of Cabrera coverage, the best left-handed pitcher in baseball and the ugly consequences of non-competitive behavior. Later, Jessica Mendoza stops by to talk about joining the Dodgers broadcast as an analyst, if Cody Bellinger is stabilizing, Bob Melvin’s credibility in the Padres’ clubhouse and a fun start to the season for the Mariners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster examines the Mets’ 9-3 start, coming on the heels of a forgettable 2021 season. Then, Jesse Rogers stops by to discuss the similarities of Joe Maddon’s culture change with the Cubs in the mid-2010s to Buck Showalter’s culture change with the Mets, the Cubs putting the ball in play, the White Sox’s depth, Gerrit Cole’s rough night out and the minor league pitch clock shaving off 20 minutes of game time. Later, Todd Radom shares his thoughts on the Padres’ uniform ads, delivers the Phantom Franchise and administers the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Tim moving heavy things, baseball not disappointing with Freddie Freeman’s home run against the Braves, Ronald Acuña Jr. starting his minor league rehab assignment, the Angels intentionally walking Corey Seager to score a run, the Red Sox leaving players behind as they head to Toronto and Jake Arrieta big-timing Tim in a Starbucks. Then, Sarah Langs stops by to play The Numbers Game with notes on sock height, Seiya Suzuki’s low chase rate, Hunter Green’s 100 mph pitches, the Mets’ rotation ERA and a confused Mike Trout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster Olney pays tribute to Jackie Robinson and discusses the legacy he leaves behind on the game. Then, Karl Ravech joins Buster to break down if Clayton Kershaw should have been pulled after pitching a perfect game through seven innings and the instability of the Padres. Plus, Jessica Mendoza shares what Jackie Robinson means to her and the struggles of Gerrit Cole. Later, Hembo joins Buster to discuss the emerging star of Steven Kwan and the games he’s excited for this weekend.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s been 75 years since Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in baseball, becoming the first Black player to take the field in Major League Baseball in 1947. Jackie was a specific player chosen at a specific time, when baseball was highly aligned with Black popular culture. But what happened between baseball and Black America in the decades after Jackie’s pivotal act? Why didn’t baseball become a majority Black sport, like basketball and football? Why didn’t MLB follow the culture into hip hop or grow its Black fan base? Jesse Washington uses his own lapsed baseball fandom to explore these questions with guests like Public Enemy’s Chuck D, Jackie’s son David Robinson, and current players and executives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster Olney discusses what makes Guardians rookie Steven Kwan special, his record-breaking performance, and Kwan’s biggest hit of the season thus far. Then, Alden Gonzalez breaks down future Hall of Famer Albert Pujols’ homer and mission to prove himself, the standing ovation Alec Bohm received from the Philadelphia crowd, and if the Dodgers are truly the best team in baseball. Later, Todd Radom shares this week’s Phantom Franchise and quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster look back on the first weekend and discuss the Guardians’ Steven Kwan looking like the best player in baseball, Rob Manfred gifting all the players headphones, a culture shift within the Mets' locker room, Red Sox hitters complaining how fast Yankee pitchers were working with PitchCom, if Cody Bellinger is in trouble, which side blew it in Aaron Judge’s contract negotiations and the Braves’ championship rings. Then, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game with notes on Hunter Greene’s heat, Kwan, and the Twins’ consecutive runs via the homer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jessica Mendoza and Buster discuss how they took in Opening Day, how PitchCom is already speeding up the game, Bobby Witt Jr.’s big league debut, the best part of Shohei Ohtani’s Opening Day, and Ronald Acuña Jr. and Freddie Freeman’s “clash” in Atlanta. Then, Buster takes a closer look at Joey Votto turning over a new leaf on social media and his mic’d up performance during last night’s broadcast. Later, Todd Radom has this week’s Phantom Franchise and quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster Olney and Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos discuss celebrating the World Series in Atlanta with the fans on Opening Day, the process of designing the championship rings, when Ronald Acuña Jr. may return, early impressions of Matt Olson and his thoughts on PitchCom. Then, Karl Ravech stops by to talk about his excitement for the season to start, the potential reception for Olson, how the Braves are feeling heading into a title defense, Joey Votto’s TikToks and José Ramírez’s new contract with the Guardians. Later, Hembo on Ramírez, the three most important players this season and potentially the best player in baseball through April. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Tim’s duties at Brian Cashman’s Catholic University Hall of Fame induction, the Padres trading for Sean Manaea, if the A’s are retooling or tanking, the Mets’ pitching woes with Jacob deGrom and Max Scherzer's injuries, deGrom still insisting he’s going to opt out of his contract at the end of the year, where Buster thinks deGrom will end up, and the White Sox trading Craig Kimbrel for AJ Pollock from the Dodgers. Then, Buster talks to Yankees GM Brian Cashman about Tim’s handling of his Hall of Fame induction, making trades during the weekend’s festivities, his comments about the 2017 ALCS, recommending Carlos Beltrán for the YES Network, improving the team’s defense and Josh Donaldson. Later, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech joins Buster to discuss Matt Olson, Jacob deGrom’s shoulder tightness, the Mets’ need for pitching security, whether the Cardinals or Brewers will win the NL Central and why Brian Cashman should’ve kept his thoughts on the 2017 Yankees to himself. Then, Todd Radom shares his thoughts on the Nationals’ cherry blossom uniforms, delivers the first Phantom Franchise entry and administers the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster and David Schoenfield discuss Oneil Cruz being sent to the minors, how the Cruz move underscores the lack of substantive changes in service time manipulation and tanking, if Bobby Witt Jr. is the favorite for AL rookie of the year, and offseason grades for the Braves, Yankees and the NL Central. Then, Hembo makes that case for an all-time great season from the Dodgers’ lineup, explains why he’s picking the White Sox to win the World Series and shares which players he thinks will be break out stars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster Olney discuss the Oscars slap heard around the world, the communication breakdown between Freddie Freeman and the Braves, Albert Pujols signing with the Cardinals, why Bobby Witt Jr. should be on the Royals’ Opening Day roster, MLB continuing to check for sticky stuff, and Max Scherzer looking ready to go. Then, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game with notes on the Mets throwing two multi-time Cy Young winners, if Gerrit Cole can lead the AL in strikeouts, Shohei Ohtani pitching and hitting on Opening Day, and what St. Louis can expect from Pujols this season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster starts the show examining the Orioles’ continuing tank-a-thon as oddsmakers peg Baltimore’s 2022 win total at 62.5 games. Then, Todd Radom stops by to discuss Vanderbilt’s new logo and his new weekly series Phantom Franchises, as well as administer the first quiz of the year. Then, Karl Ravech on New York City lifting its vaccine mandate for athletes, the looming issue of needing to be vaccinated to travel to Toronto, wins totals for the AL East and NL West, and the return of the ghost runner in extra innings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo joins Buster to give his three bold predictions for this season. Plus, Buster pays homage to Max Scherzer after his performance Monday. Then, Joon Lee joins Buster to discuss the suspected content in the letter that will be released by the courts from Rob Manfred to the Yankees. Later, Buster answers this week’s Bleacher Tweets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster Olney reports on the historic class of free agent shortstops all finally finding homes. Then, Tim Kurkjian stops by to discuss the Twins signing Carlos Correa, Trevor Story landing with the Red Sox, Freddie Freeman making less money with the Dodgers than he would’ve with the Braves, how much of a difference Bob Melvin will make on the Padres and potential bubble teams in MLB’s expanded playoffs. Later, Sarah Langs has notes on which team still needs starting pitching, the Braves’ bullpen, the Yankees’ defense and the Tigers’ defense. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss Freddie Freeman landing with the Dodgers, L.A. and Atlanta's contract numbers for Freeman not being far off, Kris Bryant signing with Colorado making no sense, Chris Sale’s broken ribs, and their surprised that the Red Sox haven't been more aggressive. Then, Buster examines the hyper-competitive AL East. Later, Hembo stops by to talk about why the Braves moving on from Freeman in favor of Matt Olson was a smart move, if Bryant will still be in Colorado in seven years, why he thinks the Yankees are going to finish fourth in the division, his lack of enthusiasm for Kyle Schwarber in Philadelphia and the Mariners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss Fernando Tatis Jr.’s wrist injury and how the Padres are going to have trouble scoring runs, the Mariners trading for Jesse Winker and Eugenio Suárez, Joe Maddon’ bungled attempt to move Mike Trout to right field, the Yankees improving defensively, the Braves trading for Matt Olson and closing the door on signing Freddie Freeman. Then, Buster gets reaction from Dansby Swanson, Ian Anderson, Ozzie Albies and Alex Anthopoulos on the Freeman news. Later, Marly Rivera stops by to talk about Josh Donaldson and Gerrit Cole ironing out their differences, Donaldson bringing a spark to the Yankees’ clubhouse, and how Max Scherzer and Buck Showalter will be good for Francisco Lindor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs joins Buster to discuss the competitive advantage of the vaccination status of players. Then, they break down the blockbuster deal of the Yankees acquiring Josh Donaldson and Isiah Kiner-Falefa from the Minnesota Twins in exchange for Gary Sanchez and Gio Urshela. Next, Austin Riley met with Buster and fellow reporters at camp discussing their chances of repeating a championship and the absence of Freddie Freeman. Finally, Buster answers this week’s bleacher tweets.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster convene for an emergency pod to discuss the end of the lockout, why they’re excited to see which moves the Yankees and Dodgers make, keeping an eye on the A’s, if the Brewers will deal Josh Hader for a bat, their thoughts on Carlos Correa and Trevor Story, if there will be backchannel conversations about other rule changes, if enough was done to combat tanking, and the mini-revolt among the players that forced the end of the lockout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Red Sox pitcher and friend of the pod Rich Hill joins Buster to discuss potential rule changes in baseball, the need to streamline instant replay, if the pitch clock gives an advantage to hitters, whether the shift should be banned or tweaked, why bigger bases make sense and devaluing starting pitching. Then, Hembo stops by to talk about where labor negotiations stand, the qualifying offer creating a bottleneck, the conversation around the international draft being a bad look, Steve Cohen’s Twitter likes, Rob Manfred’s job performance and Scott Boras’ assessment of the lockout’s media coverage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss MLB canceling games, the erosion of fan support this decision will cause, the shortsightedness of negotiations, handwringing over the luxury tax, the union’s path of non-engagement, if the owners are trying to break the union and Tim having never played a single video game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jesse Rogers and Buster discuss how close the players and the league are to a labor deal, what it’s been like covering these negotiations, the remaining issues to be resolved, the leverage players have with playoff format proposals, Derrick Jeter steps down as Marlins CEO and the Jesse Rogers rule of owning a team. Then, Buster talks to a group of Bleacher Tweeters to get their thoughts on the labor fight, and what they'd say to owners and players. Later, Scott Van Pelt on why the Orioles' poor performance has led him to apathy about the strike. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kiley McDaniel joins Buster to discuss his top 100 prospect list, when the Orioles will debut Adley Rutschman, if there’s more pressure on teams to call players up, the rhetoric surrounding Anthony Volpe, O’Neil Cruz’s potential impact for the Pirates, Kiley’s draft board and if Freddie Freeman stays with the Braves. Then, Buster’s conversation with a group of major leaguers who are working out in Nashville as they wait for the labor situation to be resolved. Later, Todd Radom stops by to talk about uniform updates in 2022, the Yankees retiring Paul O’Neil’s number, and Buster turns the table on the quiz.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Passan and Buster discuss the Eric Kay trial and opioid use among pitchers, why labor negotiations feel like falling in a dream down an infinite cavern, and the parallels to the 1981 strike. Then, Jessica Mendoza stops by to talk about running into Kyle Schwarber decked out Bengals’ gear at the Super Bowl, the absurdity of negotiations taking place over short meetings on Zoom, and her thoughts on Rachel Balkovec and the wave of women being hired to important roles in MLB. Later, Hembo on which players will benefit most from the universal DH, this year’s Rams and Bengals in baseball, and which prospect will have the biggest impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss updates in the labor negotiations, what team first baseman Freddie Freeman will sign with, and how stopping steroid testing will affect the game. Next, Buster sits down with the executive director for Advocates for Minor Leaguers Harry Marino and player Rhett Wiseman to shed light on the living conditions of minor league players and what changes need to be made. Later, Buster answers this week's Bleacher Tweets.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss the state of the labor negotiations, if the owners should throw the players a bone after steamrolling them, the lack of consistent back-and-forth, the NFL’s blockbuster playoffs looming in the background of the talks, ESPN unveiling its top-100 MLB players of all-time, their logic when assembling their rankings, and the debates that have emerged from Nos. 100-51. Later, Doug Glanville stops by to talk about his piece on why he’s fine with Barry Bonds not making the Hall of Fame. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hembo and Buster discuss the relevancy and money MLB is losing as labor talks drag on, David Ortiz’s election to the Hall of Fame, and if his election will help Manny Ramirez and Alex Rodriguez get into the Hall. Then, Rich Hill stops by to talk about signing for his 18th season with the Boston Red Sox, the AL East, involving his son with team activities, his worry for the sport’s health if a labor agreement is not reached soon, his concerns with a potentially shortened spring training and the automated strike zone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster Olney discusses the latest news in the MLB. Then, Sarah Langs joins Buster to share her top three Australian-born players in honor of Buster’s special guest this week, Genevieve Beacom. Then, Buster talks with the 17-year old Beacom, who is the first woman to pitch professionally in Australia. Plus, Jeff Passan joins Buster to discuss the updates in the labor negotiations. Finally, Buster answers your questions with this week’s bleacher tweets.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jesse Rogers and Buster discuss the career of Jon Lester following his retirement announcement this morning. Plus, they break down if Lester has the possibility of entering the Hall of Fame. Then, Buster and Jesse discuss the labor situation and if there is any progress being made on the path to an agreement. Later, Buster is joined by Hembo to debate who is in their top ten player positional rankings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs and Buster discuss the chances of Barry Bonds, Rogers Clemens, Curt Schilling, David Ortiz and others being elected to the Hall of Fame this year. Then, Derrick Goold stops by to talk about the negativity surrounding the Hall of Fame voting process, the slow-drip of results, what they would change about the voting process and if writers should even participate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buster Olney remembers the life and tragic passing of Roberto Clemente on New Year’s Eve of 1972 with three distinct voices. First, Buster talks to former Pirates pitcher Steve Blass about meeting Clemente as an 18-year-old minor leaguer, when he heard the news of the plane crash, spring training of 1973 feeling like an extension of the memorial, what Clemente was like in the clubhouse and why no one could take their eyes off of him. Then David Maraniss, author of Clemente: The Passion and Grace of Baseball's Last Hero, stops by to talk about his live broadcast relaying the news of Clemente’s death, why he decided to write a Clemente biography, the awe Clemente inspired in fellow players and Manny Sanguillén searching for Clemente’s body. Finally, longtime MLB player and coach Joey Cora discusses learning of Clemente’s death at the age of seven, Clemente putting Puerto Rico on the map, how Clemente paved the way for all Puerto Rican players in MLB and his favorite Clemente highlight. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Schoenfield joins Buster to discuss abstaining from Twitter, Freddie Freeman and Carlos Correa in free agency limbo, the riskiness of the Mets not hiring Buck Showalter, and what comes to David’s mind when thinking about the 1994 Expos. Then, the GM for the 1994 Expos Kevin Malone stops by to talk about his work for the U.S. Institute Against Human Trafficking, Montreal ownership forcing him to dismantle the ’94 Expos as a result of the labor strike, why he thinks that dismantling was the beginning of the end of baseball in Montreal and what the free agency situation may look like once a labor agreement is reached. Later, Hembo has more on the ’94 Expos and plays the Hall of Fame Game with Buster. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs joins Buster to discuss her favorite Tim Kurkjian story as he’s up for the National Baseball Hall of Fame’s BBWAA Career Excellence Award, and her thoughts on the newest inductees to the Hall. Then, Tim Kurkjian stops by to talk about how he’s been feeling as he awaits word on the vote, his connection to Walter Johnson, the worst mistake he’s ever made and the continued stalemate between owners and players in labor negotiations. Later, Jim Kaat on being elected to the Hall of Fame, what it was like waiting for the call, his fellow inductees and what he would change about Hall of Fame voting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Passan joins Buster to discuss the official start of the lockout, the forever fight over money, the poor working relationship between the players and owners, the importance of message discipline, each side's soft underbelly and how much spending will occur when the labor situation is resolved. Then, Hembo stops by to discuss his research on the middle class dilemma, his favorite free agent signing and his least favorite signing. Later, Buster and Tim Kurkjian suspend reality and hit on all the major signings from the last week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jesse Rogers joins Buster to discuss the intrigue around this year’s Hall of Fame ballot, how they think voters will treat David Ortíz, if Curt Schilling will make it in, the expectation that there will be a lock out, how a lockout would crush the middle class of players, Carlos Correa contract predictions from executives, the biggest names that are likely to be traded this offseason and keeping an eye on the Rangers. Later, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game with notes on the Comeback Player of the Year, Noah Syndergaard and Guerrero family MVP votes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech joins Buster to discuss Cleveland’s official transition to the Guardians name, Bryce Harper winning a second MVP and growing into the face of the franchise, Freddie Freeman’s contract talks with the Braves, José Berríos signing for 7-years with the Blue Jays, the Angels grabbing Noah Syndergaard for one year, Justin Verlander returning to the Astros, Eduardo Rodríguez heading to Detroit, their advice for new Mets GM Billy Eppler, and Rob Manfred’s lockout comments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss their feelings about the labor situation, Justin Verlander throwing 96 mph at his workout, the Dodgers not extending a qualifying offer to Clayton Kershaw and signing Andrew Heaney, if Craig Kimbrel will be on the White Sox next season, and what surprised them about the awards list. Then, Hembo stops by to talk about how he’s handling his offseason sadness, if the Braves are serious contenders in 2022, Kershaw possibility being underrated this free agency, the Cubs picking up Wade Miley off waivers and J.T. Realmuto. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Passan joins Buster to discuss their personal recovery time following the postseason, Buster Posey’s retirement and if he’s a Hall of Famer, the dearth of catchers in the Hall, Jeff’s rainbow of a bruise he received after catching for his son, the time someone confused Buster with Posey, and the progress — or lack thereof — of labor talks between the union and the league. Later, Todd Radom closes the podcast with his connection to late-commissioner Bart Giamatti and the final quiz of the season. Finally, an annual tradition to end the daily podcast for the 2021 season: A reading of “The Green Fields of the Mind” by Giamatti. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Schoenfield joins Buster to discuss the Atlanta Braves winning the World Series, Jorge Soler earning the World Series MVP, Freddie Freeman affecting how other teams used their bullpens, Alex Anthopoulos making all-time great trade deadline moves, Max Fried being due for a good outing and baseball lifer Brian Snitker finally winning the big one. Then, Hembo stops by to talk about the Braves out-homering the Astros by a wide margin, the Atlanta’s bullpen, the innings discrepancy between relievers and starters, if Freeman is a Hall of Famer, and late endings to World Series games. Later, Sarah Langs on the Braves clinching on the road, Atlanta acquiring its NLCS and World Series MVPs at the trade deadline, and the chances of a Braves repeat. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dan Shulman joins Buster to discuss the last time a team rallied from 3-1 down in the World Series, why the Braves still have the upper hand, Luis Garcia as a wild card and what to watch while Max Fried is pitching. Then, Tony Gwynn Jr. stops by to share Barry Bonds stories and explain why he thinks Bonds should go into the Hall of Fame. Later, Sarah Langs on her favorite Bonds stat, Freddie Freeman, the Astros’ two-out offense and the last time a rookie started in the World Series on three games rest. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian joins Buster to discuss Tim’s now-nixed travel plans he made after Adam Duvall’s grand slam in the first inning of Game 5, the resiliency of the Astros, Brian Snitker waiting too long to call the bullpen, fears of Atlanta’s bullpen being worn out, how the Braves won Game 4 and Atlanta needing a big outing from Max Fried in Game 6. Plus, the guys remember Red Sox player and broadcaster Jerry Remy. Then, Sarah Langs stops by to talk about Dusty Baker’s lineup changes, Alex Bregman breaking through, first inning grand slams and the success of teams with a 3-1 lead in the World Series. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech joins Buster to discuss the Padres hiring Bob Melvin, if the A’s organization is happy to shed Melvin’s contract, the Mets watching traffic zoom by, the potential for a rainout throwing the World Series into complete disarray and the inevitability of Atlanta changing its name. Then, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game with notes on the Astros’ offense thriving, the ballparks where the Braves have played home World Series games and Atlanta’s home losing streak in the Fall Classic. Later, Todd Radom stops by to weigh in on PETA’s insistence that cows are offended by the term bullpen and to administer the weekly quiz.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Singleton and Buster discuss the Astros’ Game 2 victory, the uncertainty when looking at the rest of the series, the buzz in Atlanta surrounding the Braves, Dusty Baker plugging in Jose Siri, José Urquidy pounding the strike zone, a two-part performance for Max Fried, why Brian Snitker didn’t pull Fried after a rough start, if Kyle Wright can be a difference maker and José Altuve. Then, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game with notes on rookie pitchers matching up, the importance of winning Game 3 and early runs in this series. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Schoenfield joins Buster to discuss Charlie Morton going down with a broken leg, the pressure now on the Braves, the Atlanta bullpen hitting its stride and a head-scratcher from Framber Valdez. Then, Jessica Mendoza stops by after a tornado warning in Houston to talk about wanting to record the podcast after last night’s game, Morton pitching on a broken leg, what’s happening with Alex Bregman, the World Series as an event and tales from the pregame dugout. Later, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers game with notes on Jorge Soler’s leadoff home run, Eddie Rosario’s hitting streak and the Astros’ home losing streak in the World Series. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs joins Buster to talk about Dusty Baker getting a shot at a World Series, play a pre-World Series edition of The Numbers Game and make her series prediction. Then, Hembo stops by with context for the Braves’ and Astros’ World Series runs, and thoughts on who has the most to gain by winning the whole thing and which team has the Game 1 pitching advantage. Later, Xavier Scruggs on the general fan interest in the matchup, his favorite storylines going into the World Series, the Snitker family, and Chris Bassitt’s claim that Astros-like cheating is much more widespread. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss the Astros defeating the Red Sox in the ALCS, Houston’s pitching holding the line, Yordan Álvarez offensive explosion, the Braves defeating the Dodgers in the NLCS, Atlanta maintaining the best record in baseball since the trade deadline, the similarities between the Astros and Braves, what’s next for the Red Sox and Dodgers, the Cardinals hiring Ollie Marmol, and the Padres hiring a pitching coach before a manager. Then, longtime MLB catcher Alex Avila stops by to talk about his recent retirement, how the Astros and Braves win in similar ways, his pitching plans for Eddie Rosario and Álvarez, his advice for how baseball should handle the sticky stuff conversation, and how he feels about the opener strategy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss Chris Taylor’s three home run night, the Dodgers’ ability to get the most out of players, Nathan Eovaldi starting for the Red Sox, and a few Bleacher Tweets on the electronic strike zone, tying the DH to starting pitching and Alex Cora vs. Dusty Baker’s managerial styles. Later, Hembo stops by to talk about Mad Max: Road Warrior, Taylor’s free agent value, his key for Game 6 of the ALCS, and his traditionalist thoughts on changes likely coming to MLB. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs joins Buster to discuss the Braves taking a 3-1 lead over the Dodgers, how Atlanta and Los Angeles feel like different teams compared to last year’s NLCS, Framber Valdez’s ridiculous sinker, and Alex Cora’s mistake with Chris Sale. Plus, Sarah and Buster talk about the big changes coming soon to MLB.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Schoenfield and Buster discuss Cody Bellinger coming up big in the postseason, whether Bellinger is in position to make these big hits if Max Muncy doesn’t get hurt, if the Braves will fold, the Astros’ bullpen salvaging the game, Boston failing to knockout Houston, José Altuve and Carlos Correa showing their toughness, Laz Diaz and the would-be strike three call, and the top-five free agent shortstops according to 11 baseball evaluators. Later, Todd Radom has the final Forgotten Franchise for the season and the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs joins Buster to discuss the Yankees signing Aaron Boone to a three-year contract, what could turn the NLCS series for the Dodgers, Walker Buehler, the emergence of Austin Riley and Alex Cora’s coaching moment with Eduardo Rodriguez. Then, the Boston Globe’s Alex Speier stops by to talk the Red Sox being locked in offensively, the hitting culture in Boston, Kyle Schwarber’s relationship with Bobby Dalbec, if the Astros have a path back into the series and the Mets’ GM search. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian joins Buster to discuss the Braves’ back-to-back walk off wins to take a 2-0 lead in the NLCS, the feeling of something special happening in Atlanta, the Dodgers missing Max Muncy, Dave Roberts bringing in Julio Urias in Game 2, Austin Riley continuing to look like the best player in the NL, MLB increasing housing support for minor-leaguers and the Yankees’ managerial situation. Later, Dan Shulman stops by to talk about the ALCS, pitching injuries for the Astros, how Houston should handle its staff going forward, Tanner Houck and Nick Pivetta being difference-makers, and his free agency outlook for Toronto. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech and Buster discuss an exciting Dodger victory over the Giants in Game 5 of the NLDS. They get into Logan Webb’s dominant performance, Mookie Betts’ big night, Cody Bellinger redeeming himself after a dreadful season, Max Scherzer closing the game out and celebrating hard afterward, Dave Roberts’ bold decision to start Corey Knebel, and Buster’s cursed picks for the LCS series. Plus, the Cardinals make a surprising move dumping Mike Shildt and the Yankees fire third base coach Phil Nevin. Later, Todd Radom stops by with the Forgotten Franchise and the weekly quiz.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs joins Buster to preview NLDS Game 5 between the Dodgers and Giants. They discuss why each team should be exceeding confident with Logan Webb and Julio Urias on the mound, the Giants finding a way to set-up Camilo Doval, Chris Taylor possibly coming up clutch, home field advantage and how Sarah’s mom is doing with a tense night ahead. Then, Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos stops by to talk about how he’s watching tonight’s Game 5, the Braves’ preparation for the Giants or Dodgers, Atlanta’s turbulent season, something he previously took for granted and the importance of clubhouse culture. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Schoenfield joins Buster to discuss Dodgers-Giants going to Game 5, the Braves’ chances against Los Angeles or San Francisco, baseball needing a common sense test on what’s reviewable, the Astros’ stalwarts stepping up, the White Sox faltering down the stretch, and the Yankees considering re-signing Aaron Boone. Later, Hembo on why Alex Cora is the best postseason manager since Bruce Bochy, why he’s bullish on Atlanta, picking the Giants in Game 5 and candidates to accept qualifying offers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jessica Mendoza joins Buster to discuss rookie reliever Camilo Doval coming up big for the Giants, Evan Longoria’s home run, San Francisco and Los Angeles playing nearly perfect ball, the Brewers’ complete offensive shutdown, the Red Sox sending the Rays home, Alex Cora’s impeccable playoff record, Boston’s shrewd signing of Kiké Hernandez, the off-day controversy between the White Sox and Astros, and the 2021 all-intangibles team. Later, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game with notes on Joctober, Cora in clinchers and Buster Posey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian joins Buster to discuss the controversial plays in both Game 3s in the ALDS- how the rulebook cost the Rays a run in the top of the 13th in Boston and whether or not Yasmani Grandal intentionally ran up the first base line to get in the way of a throw to the plate. Plus, Tim looks ahead to the full slate of Division Series games on the schedule today.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech joins Buster to discuss Tim Kurkjian’s belief in ghosts, Randy Arozarena stealing home, why the Rays will continue to be a bad matchup for the Red Sox, Lance Lynn getting blown up, Lance McCullers Jr.’s dominance, Dusty Baker’s Cooperstown destiny, if the Braves offense can overcome the Brewers’ strikeout staff and a monster NLDS series between the Giants and Dodgers. Later, Todd Radom stops by with the Forgotten Franchise and the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs joins Buster to discuss the Dodgers-Giants’ first-ever postseason meeting, Chris Taylor’s walk off against the Cardinals, the questions surrounding the White Sox, potentially a huge series from Wander Franco, the Rays’ starting rookie pitchers and if the Braves can overcome the Brewers’ three-headed monster. Then, Hembo stops by to defend Phil Nevin waving Aaron Judge home in the AL Wild Card game and share his X-factors for every playoff team. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Schoenfield joins Buster to discuss the Red Sox taking down the Yankees in the AL Wild Card, Xander Bogaerts getting Boston going, Gerrit Cole’s bad night, New York’s lack of offense, Ryan Braiser playing a key role for the Red Sox, the Rays-Red Sox series in the ALDS and who the Dodgers will play at first base. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Matt Vasgersian joins Buster to preview the AL Wild Card Game between the Yankees and Red Sox, the Yankees’ distinct pitching advantage, keeping an eye on swings and misses, Rafael Devers and Giancarlo Stanton elevating their teams, if Joey Gallo can change the narrative around his Yankee career, and Joe West retiring after the postseason. Then, Sarah Langs stops by to give her picks for the wild card games, and plays The Numbers Game with notes on Postseason Gerrit Cole, Aaron Judge homering in winner-take-all games, a pair of older pitchers matching up in Dodgers-Cardinals, and a promising stat for Los Angeles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian joins Buster to discuss Yankees-Red Sox in the AL Wild Card game, Yankees bullpen advantage over the Red Sox, Boston needing a fast start, the Blue Jays coming up one game short, the Mariners’ momentum going into 2022, the Giants setting a franchise record for wins, Max Muncy going down and what amounts to a coin flip in the NL Wild Card game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs joins Buster to discuss champagne celebrations in clubhouses, how the Braves won the NL East after suffering major injuries, the Astros clinching the AL West and Carlos Correa’s great year, the Giants coming up clutch again, Adam Wainwright getting the start in the NL Wild Card game, Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton putting the Yankees on their backs, and why Ryan Mountcastle should win AL Rookie of the Year. Later, Todd Radom stops by with the Forgotten Franchise and the weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech joins Buster to discuss the Blue Jays hunting first-pitch fast balls on Gerrit Cole, the number of arms at the Yankees’ disposal, why Buster thinks the Red Sox may not lose again, the Braves on the verge of clinching the NL East, Devin Williams breaking his hand while celebrating the Brewers winning the NL Central, the Dodgers and Cardinals on a collision course in the NL Wild Card game, and Karl atoning for his worst preseason prediction. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Schoenfield joins Buster to discuss their worst preseason predictions, the Cardinals clinching a playoff spot, the Mariners coming up clutch, the Yankees creating some breathing room, the feeling of 2011 for the Red Sox, AL Rookie of the Year and the Braves’ chances in the playoffs. Plus, Hembo on his worst preseason prediction, the definitive MVP case for Bryce Harper, the impact of the Giants losing Brandon Belt and why he thinks the Cardinals won’t make waves in the playoffs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Langs joins Buster to discuss the Mariners hovering around the back of the AL Wild Card pack, Brandon Belt’s broken thumb, Joey Votto’s bombs, Juan Soto on the edge of a batting title and Bradley Zimmer homering off his brother Kyle. Then, Jessica Mendoza and Melanie Newman stop by to talk about calling Dodgers-Padres together on Wednesday as the first all-women broadcast duo for an MLB game on ESPN, the Dodgers still fighting for the NL West crown, if the Padres will play spoiler or roll over, Giancarlo Stanton’s swing and Shohei Ohtani’s comments about winning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Kurkjian joins Buster to discuss the exceptionally dangerous Rays clinching the AL East, why Kevin Cash should be AL manager of the year, the Brewers looking to surprise in the postseason, Juan Soto vs. Bryce Harper for NL MVP, the Yankees sweeping the Red Sox over the weekend and which teams they think make the AL Wild Card with a week left to play. Plus, Buster talks to Giancarlo Stanton after a Yankees victory on Sunday Night Baseball. And, Boog Sciambi chats with Alex Cora. Hone Health: For a limited time only, listeners get the at-home assessment and a doctor consultation for only $45. Click here to take advantage or visit HoneHealth.com/BBTN Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karl Ravech joins Buster to discuss this weekend’s Yankees-Red Sox series, Boston’s favorable schedule going forward, New York controlling its fate, the White Sox clinching the AL Central and how dangerous they’ll be in the playoffs, Craig Kimbrel’s disappointing play since being traded, the Cardinals ripping off a 12th-straight win, Juan Soto’s second half explosion, and MLB experimenting with pre-tacked baseballs. Later, Todd Radom has the Forgotten Franchise and weekly quiz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices