
Rates & Barrels: A show about Baseball
Rates & Barrels is a daily baseball podcast hosted by Derek VanRiper and Eno Sarris. They analyze MLB news, statistics, and fantasy baseball strategy through an analytical lens. The show also features contributions from Britt Ghiroli, Trevor May, and Jed Lowrie, and includes a Saturday segment called Starkville with Jayson Stark and Doug Glanville.
Episodes

Starkville | Mike Krukow Reflects on 36 Seasons in the Booth
Legendary Giants broadcaster Mike Krukow will be retiring from the booth after 36 seasons. He shares the emotional outpouring he's received from fans, the gut-wrenching moment he told his partner Duane Kuiper, and highlights from a lifetime of stories — from homering off Steve Carlton to lessons learned from Harry Caray and Vin Scully. Rundown: 00:00 Intro02:35 Showing Love to Local Voices10:43 We

Who Are MLB’s REAL Aces? Eno’s Updated Starting Pitcher Rankings
Who are the best starting pitchers in baseball right now — and which arms actually belong in the ace tier? Eno Sarris returns with his updated starting pitcher rankings as DVR breaks down some of the toughest calls, biggest risers and most surprising placements on the board.Blake Snell is back in the top 10, landing at No. 10 after another strong stretch, while Drew Rasmussen climbs all the way to

Shohei Ohtani Isn’t the No. 1 Pick?! Inside the First 2027 Fantasy Draft
Shohei Ohtani isn't the No. 1 pick in the first major 2027 fantasy baseball draft. So who went ahead of him? Ryan Bloomfield of Baseball HQ and Bubba and the Bloom joins DVR to break down the Meatball Draft and give us an incredibly early look at the 2027 fantasy baseball rankings, ADP, breakouts, bargains and potential first-round picks.Pete Crow-Armstrong steals the No. 1 spot in the Meatball Dr

Why Kevin McGonigle's Rookie Season is HISTORIC + MLB'S Next Wave of Stars
Kevin McGonigle isn't just running away with the American League Rookie of the Year race — he's already playing like one of the best players in baseball. DVR, Eno Sarris and Jed Lowrie take a deep dive into McGonigle, JJ Wetherholt and an incredibly deep 2026 MLB rookie class to determine which young stars have the skills to sustain their early success.On the National League side, JJ Wetherholt ha

Is Pete Crow-Armstrong Coming for Shohei Ohtani’s NL MVP?
Pete Crow-Armstrong is making a serious push in the National League MVP race. After another huge night for the Chicago Cubs — including two home runs and a walk-off blast against the White Sox — PCA now has back-to-back 30/30 seasons and has put himself squarely into the NL MVP conversation with Shohei Ohtani.DVR and Eno break down PCA's remarkable surge and how dramatically his outlook has change

The AL Wild Card Race Is Absolute Chaos — Who Gets In?
The American League Wild Card race is complete chaos. With the Baltimore Orioles, Texas Rangers, Detroit Tigers, Seattle Mariners and Minnesota Twins battling for position in a crowded AL playoff picture, DVR and Eno Sarris break down which teams have the best chance to survive the final weeks of the 2026 MLB season.The Orioles are playing their way back into the postseason race despite selling at

Starkville | Andrew Friedman Isn’t Apologizing for the Dodgers
The Dodgers are ruining baseball—or they’re not. These days, it depends on who you ask. This week, Jayson and Doug go straight to the source, sitting down with Dodgers president Andrew Friedman to get his take on the firestorm, as well as the inside story of how he pulled off the trade for Tarik Skubal. Plus, Jayson and Doug try to make sense of what happened in Toronto, where the Red Sox scored o

Why the Mariners Sent Top Prospect Colt Emerson Back to Triple-A
The Seattle Mariners sent Colt Emerson back to Triple-A — so what went wrong for one of baseball’s most talented young prospects? DVR and Eno Sarris break down Emerson’s struggles, his alarming strikeout rate, what Seattle should expect from him going forward and why a reset in the minors could ultimately be the right move for his development.Plus, Jacob deGrom left his latest start with right tri

Inside Buster Posey’s Difficult First Years Running the Giants
Buster Posey is a San Francisco Giants legend — but could running the team put that legacy at risk? Britt Ghiroli joins DVR and Eno Sarris to discuss her exclusive reporting on Posey’s transition from franchise icon to president of baseball operations, the decisions that have defined his tenure so far, and what comes next for the struggling Giants.They also break down the major roster decisions of

Guardians Collapse Opens Up a WILD AL Central Race
The Cleveland Guardians once looked like they were cruising toward an AL Central title. Now, after losing 13 of 17, Cleveland has fallen back into one of baseball’s most unpredictable division races. DVR and Eno Sarris are joined by Zack Meisel to break down what has gone wrong for the Guardians and whether they can turn their season around.The guys take a deep dive into the AL Central playoff rac

What MLB Pitchers Are REALLY Thinking on the Mound
How do pitchers handle doubt, failure and the pressure of knowing one bad pitch can change an outing? Trevor May joins DVR and Eno for a conversation about the mental side of pitching in the major leagues. Trevor explains the battle to convince yourself that you belong, how pitchers build confidence and an on-field persona, and why the mental side of the game can be every bit as important as mecha

The Truth Behind Boston's Breakout
The Red Sox aren't cheating—they're simply playing better baseball.DVR and Eno break down why Boston's offense has transformed over the last three months, examining the coaching changes, a dramatically more aggressive approach in the strike zone and why the numbers suggest this turnaround is completely sustainable—not the result of anything nefarious. They also react to the growing online conspira

Starkville | Dave Dombrowski Clears the Air With Bryce Harper
The Phillies made one of the biggest splashes at the trade deadline by landing a three-time batting champion, and Dave Dombrowski joins Jayson and Doug to break down how it all came together. The guys also look back at a whirlwind deadline that saw a former No. 1 overall pick dealt within the division, while Doug shares what it was like to be traded himself at the 2003 deadline. Plus, another edit

Did the Tigers Make Baseball's Biggest Trade Deadline Mistake?
The MLB Trade Deadline is over, but the biggest debate is just beginning. Jayson Stark joins DVR and Eno to break down whether modern front offices have become too focused on future value—and whether the Detroit Tigers made the biggest mistake of the deadline by trading Tarik Skubal while sitting in the middle of a playoff race.The conversation dives into the philosophy behind today's trade market

Which Team Has Baseball's Best Playoff Rotation?
Are the Los Angeles Dodgers really the team with the best playoff rotation in baseball? DVR and Eno rank every MLB contender's projected postseason rotation, debating where the Dodgers, Phillies, Brewers, Yankees, Mariners, Pirates and every other playoff hopeful belong heading into October. Then they compare their rankings against the numbers to see where the biggest surprises emerge.Before divin

Why the Dodgers' Lineup is Struggling | MLB's Biggest Hitting Concerns
The MLB Trade Deadline fallout continues as Tarik Skubal makes his highly anticipated debut for the Los Angeles Dodgers. DVR, Eno and Jed Lowrie break down Skubal's first start in Dodger blue, what it means for Los Angeles' loaded rotation, and whether the Chicago Cubs' recent success against the Dodgers should change expectations in the National League.The Boston Red Sox continue to surge despite

MLB Trade Deadline Fallout: Adley Rutschman and Yankees Shakeup
The MLB Trade Deadline may be over, but the fallout is only beginning. DVR and Eno break down the biggest stories still shaping baseball, including the shocking trade that sent Adley Rutschman from the Baltimore Orioles to the Boston Red Sox and what it means for both franchises moving forward.The New York Yankees made one of the most surprising roster moves of the season by promoting top prospect

MLB Trade Deadline Live!
The MLB Trade Deadline is here and Eno and DVR are live, reacting to the blockbuster deals and surprise moves from around the league. Which contenders did the most to improve their World Series chances? Which teams fell short of expectations? Plus, we break down the biggest winners, losers, and lingering questions as the postseason picture begins to take shape.Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.soci

The Dodgers Get Skubal!
Tarik Skubal has been traded to the Dodgers in a four-player trade with the Tigers. Despite the crowded playoff picture in the AL Central, the Tigers opted to deal their ace in hopes of getting multiple contributors capable of keeping them in the mix for future playoff runs. Eno and DVR discuss the details of the trade, and the potential of the Dodgers’ rotation if they can have everyone healthy d

Starkville | Will Middlebrooks Believes in the Red Sox
The Red Sox have been one of baseball's hottest teams since late June, and this week Jayson and Doug are joined by former major leaguer and NESN studio analyst Will Middlebrooks to break down what's behind Boston's surprising turnaround and why the club has become one of the biggest stories in baseball. Then, Jayson shares stories from Hall of Fame Weekend in Cooperstown, including a chance encoun

Weekend Waiver Preview: Predicting Trade Deadline Winners
With Monday’s trade deadline fast approaching, Eno and DVR break down the A.J. Minter trade from the Mets to the Twins and explain why the smaller deals can be just as important as the blockbuster moves. Then, the guys dig into the waiver wire before welcoming Niv Shah to discuss perhaps his biggest hot dog review yet, ranking four Harry Potter-inspired dogs—one for each Hogwarts house.Rundown:1:3

Hunter Greene and Other Pitchers We Want to Trade For
What a Wednesday it was around baseball. Today, Eno, Trevor, and DVR break down Don Mattingly’s pointed comments about Bryce Harper and why he’s calling for help at the trade deadline. Then, the guys play general manager, debating which pitchers they'd target if they were making deals. Plus, could Casey Mize and Hunter Greene be on the move before Monday’s trade deadline?1:20 A Wild Wednesday: Big

Do the Tigers Really Need to Trade Tarik Skubal?
MLB Trade Deadline is just days away, DVR, Eno and Jed Lowrie explain why the Detroit Tigers are good enough to make a legitimate run and why trading Tarik Skubal could be the wrong move. They discuss Detroit's dominant pitching staff, the emergence of Troy Melton, potential deadline upgrades, and why the Tigers should not be sellers.The crew also breaks down the Mariners' comeback win over the Do

MLB Trade Deadline: What's Next for the Mets, Yankees & Dodgers?
MLB Trade Deadline week continues with DVR, Eno and Britt Ghiroli discussing strategies for both ends of the spectrum. The Yankees and Dodgers are looking towards the postseason while the Mets are looking towards next year. They break down the Yankees' search for offensive help following Cody Bellinger's injury and the ongoing absence of Aaron Judge. Plus, they examine whether the Dodgers should m

Separation Anxiety As MLB Trade Deadline Pressure Is Here
Jacob Misiorowski was rolling again Sunday, striking out 11 of the first 12 batters he faced. Eno and DVR discuss The Miz’s ongoing dominance and prepare for the return of Ronald Acuña Jr. to the Atlanta lineup. Should Acuña’s increasing injury history significantly lower his playing time projections in the future? Plus, Spencer Nusbaum joins the show to discuss the trade that sent Curtis Mead to

Starkville | Joe Buck Doesn’t Think He’s a Hall of Famer
There’s one thing sports fans can all agree on: Phillies fans love to boo. This week, Jayson and Doug look back at All-Star Week, share stories from the wrong side of a hostile Philly crowd, and discuss why the city’s fans have earned their reputation. Then, legendary broadcaster Joe Buck joins the show to talk about being honored at the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, along with a few behin

Starting Pitcher Rankings: July Update
A fresh batch of starting pitcher rankings is here, and Eno already has a few regrets. On this week's Fantasy Friday, Eno and DVR break down the latest rankings, discussing the biggest risers, fallers, and surprises. Then, they hit the waiver wire to highlight hitters and pitchers worth adding before wrapping up with a look at Clay Holmes' impending return.Rundown:0:32 Updated SP Rankings!5:22 The

Pitchers Are Adjusting Faster Than Ever!
Pitchers have to evolve fast to stay ahead, and this season has been no exception. Today, Eno, Trevor, and DVR break down the traits today's game values most and the adjustments a handful of starters are making—with varying degrees of success. Plus, the guys take a closer look at Eury Pérez's growth and the strides he's made in his third major league season.Rundown:2:17 The Speed of Adjustments7:2

Finding Trade Fits for Position Players
It’s time to fire up the Trade Master 3000! Today, Eno, Jed, and DVR unveil their boldest trade proposals ahead of the MLB trade deadline, including one that sends a former batting champ east and another that ships a former first-round pick south. Then, it’s another round of Name! That! Dude!, as the guys put their baseball knowledge to the test. To wrap things up, Jed recaps his trip to Fanatics

It's Big Board Season! Why Trade Deadline Predictions are Difficult
The MLB Trade Deadline is almost here, and the Big Board is out! Eno, Britt, and DVR break down the players they think will be on the move before August 3 and discuss where they could land. Then, they recap a few key games with playoff implications from last night before diving into Britt's latest story on a bizarre alleged spying scandal involving the Angels and Rockies.Rundown:1:36 Building the

The Red Sox Are Rolling & Kyle Bradish Gets Paid!
What is going on with Shohei Ohtani's knee? Eno and DVR break down the latest update, what it means that Ohtani has continued to serve as the Dodgers' designated hitter, and why he's missed just one game since June 20. Then, they head to the AL East to discuss the red-hot Red Sox amid their 13-game winning streak and Kyle Bradish's new five-year deal with the Orioles. Later, they examine bullpen u

Winning in Fantasy Without Top-Tier Stars
The guys head to the bullpen for Fantasy Friday. With DVR out, Eno is joined by Eric Samulski of Rotoworld to break down the latest injury news, including updates on Jacob Misiorowski, Jacob deGrom, Garrett Crochet, Ranger Suárez, and more. They also discuss the Astros-Brewers trade that sent veteran Lance McCullers Jr. and pitcher Colton Gordon to Milwaukee as part of a deal for prospect Jadyn Fi

How AI Almost Ruined Baseball
MLB has cracked down on teams' increasing use of generative artificial intelligence for on-field decision making. Eno Sarris, Derek VanRiper and Trevor May explain how teams were pushing their technology too far through the approved dugout iPads, and how quickly things have changed with the tablets in the short time since Trevor retired three years ago.Plus, the trio offers up a few ideas for addi

MLB Draft Recap & Futures Game Takeaways w/Keith Law
The MLB Draft is in the books, and The Athletic's senior writer Keith Law joins Eno and DVR to break it all down. They discuss the first two selections, shortstops Roch Cholowsky and Grady Emerson, the Rockies' standout draft, the A's landing four players from Keith's Top 50, and the Phillies' puzzling approach. Later, the guys look back at this year's Futures Game and discuss why MLB missed an op

Jordan Walker, FOMO & Our 2026 Underperformers Draft
A new king has been crowned, and his name is Jordan Walker! Today, Eno and DVR recap the Home Run Derby, breaking down the new format, Netflix's presentation of the event, and whether All-Star Week can help bring new fans to baseball. Then, they discuss which players are the best candidates to turn their careers around the way Walker has this season. Later, they go head-to-head in a draft of the b

Home Run Derby Changes & Fantasy All-Stars
We've made it to the Midsummer Classic! Today, Eno and DVR break down the new Home Run Derby rules and discuss which sluggers could benefit from the changes. Then, they take a look at several notable players who suffered injuries before the All-Star break and will miss Tuesday night's game, including Jacob Misiorowski and Shohei Ohtani. Later, they examine JJ Wetherholt's contract extension with t

Starkville | The Tigers' Impossible Deadline Dilemma
It's time to wrap up the first half of the baseball season, and there's no better guest to do it with than Ken Rosenthal. This week, Jayson and Doug are joined by their longtime Starkville friend to break down the season's biggest surprises and disappointments, make their midseason MVP picks, and discuss whether Tigers ace Tarik Skubal could actually be moved before the trade deadline—and why that

All-Star Weekend Waiver-Wire Preview
With All-Star Week approaching, it's time to get a head start on the weekend waiver wire. But first, Eno and DVR discuss the reduced suspensions for Willson Contreras and Cade Cavalli before breaking down the latest injury news, including which players are returning soon and why Aaron Judge still needs more time to recover. Then, Ottoneu founder Niv Shah joins the show to examine the biggest fanta

Justin Verlander's Final Chapter
One of the greatest pitchers of his generation, Justin Verlander, has decided to hang up his cleats. Today, Eno, Trevor, and DVR reflect on Verlander's remarkable career, where he ranks among baseball's all-time greats, and the legacy he leaves behind. Then, the guys examine why some pitchers, including Robbie Ray, are targeting the bottom of the strike zone more often and how that approach is cha

Which Prediction Do You Want to Take Back?
As the All-Star break nears, it's time to revisit some preseason predictions that didn't quite pan out. DVR explains why he'd be less bullish on Kyle Tucker today, Jed breaks down the Braves' surprising fall, and Eno evaluates the Astros' first-half performance against expectations. Plus, the guys discuss Zack Wheeler's frustration over his All-Star snub and whether the surging Marlins can make a

How Do Fastball-Heavy Approaches Age?
After a few exciting weeks, the U.S. Men’s National Team came crashing back to earth Monday night and were eliminated from the World Cup. Eno and DVR lament a disappointing effort before turning their attention back to baseball. The guys discuss what baseball and soccer have in common when it comes to developing young athletes. They examine how different types of pitchers age and highlight a few w

Is Chasing Perfection a Fool’s Errand?
From a bullpen call that sparked chants of "Shame!" to the never-ending pile of streaming apps and another Tommy John surgery for Cole Ragans, the boys have plenty to get off their chests. This week, Eno and DVR discuss Eury Pérez’s bid for perfection and why Marlins manager Clayton McCullough may have made the right call by pulling the young right-hander. Then, they dig into why it's often toughe

Starkville | The Great Stolen Base Controversy, and Mozzarella Sticks
Pete Crow-Armstrong was thrown out stealing on a walk... except he wasn't actually caught stealing on a walk. Confused? So were Jayson and Doug. This week, they break down PCA's controversial play at second base against the Mets, explain exactly what happened, and debate whether the league needs to change the rule.Then, the guys revisit last week's search for a nickname worthy of Jacob Misiorowski

Paul Skenes' Recent Struggles, Trade Targets & Weekend Waiver Wire Preview
As America celebrates its birthday, fantasy managers are getting ready for the second half of the baseball season. This week, Eno and DVR take a closer look at what's behind Paul Skenes' recent struggles, and whether his declining fastball velocity helps explain the dip in results. Then, they size up several players around the league to determine who could be worth targeting in a trade. Plus, they

Breaking Down a Few Puzzling Pitchers
As the weather warms up, the guys are bringing the heat to some intriguing pitching storylines. Eno, Trevor, and DVR examine Tatsuya Imai's inconsistencies and Jake Bennett's promising start to his career. They also explore why Bryan Woo has been so much more effective at home than on the road, whether Brandon Woodruff can continue to thrive with a diminished fastball, and how pitchers can still s

National League Flyaround: Midseason Check-Ins
It’s time for a tour around the National League, where every division has its own storylines taking shape. Eno, Jed, and DVR begin in the NL West, where the Dodgers have opened up a sizable lead. They discuss whether the Padres can still make a push, what needs to happen for the Diamondbacks' offense to get going, and where the Giants and Rockies go from here. From there, they head to "America’s D

The Baseball Started FLYING in June, Do We Know Why?
Baseballs started flying in June -- and it wasn't simply warmer weather -- it might be a manufacturing error! Eno and DVR explain why changes in drag on the baseball have a significant impact on home runs, and how Major League Baseball's revelation of a manufacturing error may provide some clues as to why we have seen so much variation in how the ball has played throughout the first half of the se

American League Flyaround: Midseason Check-Ins
It’s time to take a tour around the American League, and there’s plenty to unpack. Eno, Britt, and DVR begin in the AL East, where the Rays have surged into first place as the Yankees try to stay afloat without their captain, Aaron Judge. From there, they head to the AL Central to break down the surprising White Sox, the steady Guardians, and the disappointing Tigers. Finally, they wrap up in the

Big Changes for Mets & Angels as the Second Half Arrives
The first domino has fallen for two of baseball's most disappointing teams. Today, Eno and DVR break down the firings of Mets manager Carlos Mendoza and Angels GM Perry Minasian, what comes next for both clubs, and which managerial opening — between the Mets, Red Sox, and Phillies — offers the most upside. Plus, they take a closer look at this year's MLB players' poll from The Athletic, including

Starkville | Joe Davis Reads the History Books, While Shohei Ohtani Rewrites Them
A nickname is earned, not given—and after lighting up radar guns at 104 mph, Jacob Misiorowski’s fastball has certainly earned one. This week, we dive into listener-submitted suggestions and, with help from Jayson and Doug, try to land on the perfect name for The Miz’s electric four-seamer. Then, Dodgers broadcaster and Fox Sports play-by-play voice Joe Davis joins Starkville to talk about the def

It's a Poltergeist, Right? What Is Happening to the 2026 Mets?
The Mets entered the season with plenty of optimism. Instead, they've been plagued by injuries, inconsistency, and an ever-growing payroll. Eno, Trevor, and DVR break down what's gone wrong in Queens, whether a strong July could put New York back in the playoff race, or if selling at the trade deadline is becoming inevitable. Plus, a look at the Diamondbacks' pitching woes, what the future holds f

Bat Speed Risers, Stuff Fallers & Buster's Blunders
As some hitters crank up their bat speed, a few pitchers are watching their stuff head in the opposite direction. Eno and DVR break down the biggest bat-speed risers from the past month, including Sal Stewart and Fernando Tatis Jr., before examining several pitchers whose underlying numbers have slipped — and whether there's still reason for optimism. Plus, a trip to San Francisco to unpack the on

A Closer Look at Monday's U-Turn in Run Production
It’s time to review some games, and this time we’re headed to San Diego, Los Angeles, and Detroit, as Eno, Britt, and DVR break down Braves-Padres, Orioles-Angels, and Yankees-Tigers. Plus, The Seattle Times’ Ryan Divish joins the show to unpack why the Mariners haven’t pulled away in the AL West, what Jerry Dipoto is cooking up for the trade deadline, and his early impressions of rookie Colt Emer

The Baseball is Flying Like It's 2019 Again
Don't blame us if this episode is a drag — blame baseball. Eno and DVR dig into why drag levels have climbed back to heights not seen since 2019, and what it means for hitters (and pitchers) across the league. They also break down some of baseball's most frustrating bats, identify a few buy-low pitchers worth targeting right now, and discuss the Bryce Harper-Kyle Schwarber show in Philadelphia. Pl

Starkville | Jerry Dipoto’s Mariners Are Back On Track
Nolan Ryan had "The Express," so what do we call Jacob Misiorowski’s heater? This week on Starkville, Jayson Stark and Doug Glanville brainstorm the perfect nickname for "The Miz’s" electric four-seamer. Then, Mariners President of Baseball Operations Jerry Dipoto joins the show to talk about his short history pitching against Doug, his reputation as one of MLB's most prolific dealmakers, rising s

June Starting Pitcher Rankings Update & Waiver Wire Preview
Fresh starting pitcher rankings have dropped, and it’s time to complain! Who is too high, who is too low — and should Eno and DVR watch *more* baseball? On this episode, they discuss frustration around the rankings of George Kirby, Reid Detmers, Justin Wrobleski, and many others. Plus, a surprising discovery in the three-year park factors for Baltimore and Detroit, before they dig into this weeken

Miss Distance for Pitchers is Here, What Are We Doing With It?
Why are some baseball fans still weird about Driveline? Eno, Trevor, and DVR tackle that question after Driveline founder Kyle Boddy left his advisory role with the Red Sox. Then, the guys dive into the newly unveiled miss distance leaderboards, marvel at just how dominant Mason Miller has become, and explore whether there's a better way to account for inherited runners.Rundown:1:52 Daniel Espino’

Is There a Stat That Shows Us How Much Pitchers Fear Hitters?
Drew Rasmussen’s incredible run continues. Today, Eno, Jed, and DVR dig into the factors behind the Rays right-hander owning the best ERA in baseball since 2021 among qualified starters not named Shohei Ohtani. Then, they discuss whether Zone% can reveal which hitters pitchers fear the most. Later, the guys examine the recent regressions of Rafael Devers and Alex Bregman before wrapping up with a

Starting Pitcher Rankings: Tough Calls in June
Who are the toughest starting pitchers to rank right now? Eno and DVR dig into a group of arms that defy easy placement, including Jared Jones, Chase Burns, JT Ginn, Trey Yesavage, and more, breaking down the factors that make each of them such difficult evaluations. Then, they're joined by Chris Gill of MLB The Show to discuss how the iconic franchise has evolved over the past two decades and the

The Injury Roller Coaster Speeds Up
What a weekend across baseball. A reigning Cy Young winner returned to the mound, runs piled up in Kansas City and Las Vegas, and two stars suffered an all-too-familiar injury to a notorious hand bone. Eno and DVR break down Tarik Skubal’s uneven return, the hamate fractures suffered by José Ramírez and Vinnie Pasquantino, and Luis Lara’s extension with the Brewers. Plus, they take a closer look a

Starkville | Catching Up with J.T. Realmuto
J.T. Realmuto returns to Starkville this week, joining Jayson Stark and Doug Glanville to talk about everything from his last appearance on the show (which happened on a golf course) to catching Cristopher Sánchez, facing Jacob Misiorowski, and the unforgettable time Freddie Freeman kicked dirt on him.Plus, Jayson and Doug weigh in on Manny Machado's criticism of analytics and what it says about t

Draft-Day Regrets, Prospect Talk & Waiver Wire Prep
It’s Fantasy Friday, and with Eno out today, DVR enlists a pair of special guests. First, James Anderson of RotoWire joins the show to discuss the draft picks he’s already regretting, along with prospects generating plenty of buzz, including Braden Montgomery, Cole Carrigg, and Jordan Lawlar.Later, Ottoneu founder and Senior Hot Dog Correspondent Niv Shah stops by to examine Aaron Judge’s long-ter

Fear the Regression Monster, or Feed the Beast?
After news of a setback for Garrett Crochet’s injured lat, DVR and Stephen revisit the 2024 blockbuster that sent the ace to Boston and brought four prospects back to Chicago — all of whom have now reached the majors with the White Sox. Then, they sort through a group of potential regression candidates, including Dillon Dingler, James Wood, Jordan Walker, Brandon Lowe, José Soriano, Gavin Williams

Breaking Down Five Young Hitters & Their Future Outlooks
Baseball Savant has given fans a new toy to play with. Today, DVR and Jed dig into the site's new swing timing and miss distance leaderboards and what they can reveal about hitter performance. Then, they break down the struggles of several young hitters, including Lawrence Butler, Evan Carter, Coby Mayo, Masyn Winn, and Marcelo Mayer. Later, they open the mailbag and tackle one of baseball’s most

Surprising Teams & The Cubs’ Unusual Path to the Middle
Is Manny Machado really mad about analytics, or is a tough season at the plate fueling the frustration? Today, Eno, Britt, and DVR unpack Machado’s comments and discuss whether advanced stats can help him break out of his prolonged slump.Then, they look at three of baseball’s biggest surprises this season: the White Sox, Cardinals, and Nationals. Are these teams legitimate contenders, or should th

Starting Pitcher Stock Watch
More Josh Naylor theatrics and another step forward for Tarik Skubal. Today, Eno and DVR break down the latest chapter in the Josh Naylor-Detroit Tigers saga after the Mariners first baseman tossed his sliding mitt toward Tigers catcher Dillon Dingler during a play at the plate. They also discuss Skubal’s latest rehab start, the recent dominance of Bryce Miller and Michael Soroka, and wrap up the

Starkville | Brewing Up Something Special with GM Matt Arnold
The NL Cy Young race is absolutely loaded right now. Cristopher Sánchez just rattled off 50 and two-thirds consecutive scoreless innings, Jacob Misiorowski is lighting up radar guns, and Shohei Ohtani has his ERA sitting below 1.00. This week, Jayson Stark and Doug Glanville break down the crowded race for the award and discuss just how impressive Sánchez's scoreless streak was.Later, Brewers Pres

Aaron Judge Update & Weekend Waiver Preview
Bad news has arrived in the Bronx. Today, Eno and DVR break down what Aaron Judge’s fractured rib means for the Yankees and how the team will fare while he’s gone. Then, they discuss the return of Corey Seager and react to the shock of hearing Noelvi Marte has a new position. Later, the guys dive into the waiver wire, including the latest options in the ever-changing closer market.Rundown:0:42 Aar

Pitcher Risers & Fallers
Commissioner Rob Manfred says MLB's luxury tax is a failure, Aaron Judge's injury situation is getting more serious, and George Kirby's strikeouts are missing. Eno, Trevor, and DVR discuss those topics, and dig into a few risers and fallers in K-BB% between March/April and May, before taking a look at a surprising surge in homers and runs across all minor-league levels below Triple-A.Rundown:0:38

Can You Predict the World Series Winner in Early June?
It’s June 3, which means it’s time for everyone’s favorite game: Four vs. The Field! Today, Eno, Jed, and DVR debate whether the combination of baseball’s four World Series favorites will ultimately take home the trophy, or if the rest of the league is the smarter bet. Then, they discuss whether the Tigers can get revenge for last year’s late-season swoon by tracking down the Guardians i

Prospect Rankings Update w/Keith Law
It’s time to talk prospects, as some of baseball’s brightest young stars inch closer to the big leagues while others gear up for a run to the College World Series. Today, Eno and DVR are joined by The Athletic Senior Baseball Writer Keith Law to break down his latest prospect rankings, discuss the pitching development trends shaping organizations across MLB, and look ahead to the player who could

May Risers & Fallers
Things are looking up for two aces: Cristopher Sánchez and Jacob Misiorowski. After dominant performances throughout May, both have emerged as early frontrunners in the NL Cy Young race. Today, Eno and DVR break down what's fueling their success, while also examining which hitters made the biggest leaps at the plate from April to May. Later, the guys dig into the disappointing seasons of Bo Bichet

Starkville | Inside the Chaos of Broadcasting MLB games w/ Jason Benetti
An Astros pitcher accomplished something this week that hadn’t been done since 1892. Jayson Stark and Doug Glanville break down the historic feat, explain where Bumpus Jones fits into the story, and discuss what made it so remarkable with Sunday Night Baseball voice Jason Benetti. The guys also talk about Benetti’s chaotic travel schedule, how the ABS challenge system is changing the way he calls

MLBPA and Owners Present First Offers + Weekend Waiver Preview
Major League Baseball and the MLBPA have officially opened negotiations on a new labor deal, and while both sides are talking, they’re nowhere close to seeing eye to eye. Today, Eno and DVR break down the league’s initial proposals, the union’s response, and why these talks could stretch deep into the offseason. Later, Ottoneu founder and Senior Hot Dog correspondent Niv Shah joins the show to dis

Checking In on Several Young Pitchers
After breaking out last season, Nolan McLean has come back down to Earth a bit in 2026. Today, Eno, Trevor, and DVR discuss whether the Mets right-hander still has future ace potential. Plus, the guys dig into Andrew Painter’s progress, Bubba Chandler’s arrival, and what JR Ritchie’s return to Triple-A means for his long-term outlook. Later, they tackle perhaps the biggest question on today’s show

What's Next for These Three Underperforming Hitters?
Today, things got a little weird — thanks to Bryce Harper giving the world a glimpse into his unconventional toothbrushing routine. Eno, Jed, and DVR break down Harper’s viral moment, the end of Nick Kurtz’s on-base streak, and discuss Trea Turner, Jarren Duran, Steven Kwan, and the players who’ve brought them the most joy this season. Later, the guys revisit their plus-minus draft

Combined No-Hitters, Tandem Starts & Tarps Off: Welcome to the AL West!
It’s all about teamwork on Rates & Barrels as Eno, Britt, and DVR break down a combined no-hitter in Houston after Tatsuya Imai, Steven Okert, and Alimbert Santa teamed up to blank the Rangers. Then, the crew heads to Seattle where the Mariners are embracing the collaborative spirit too after Luis Castillo and Bryce Miller pitched in tandem Monday night. Later, they discuss Gerrit Cole’s retur

Starkville | Joey Votto Traveled the World and Arrived Back in Baseball
Joey Votto spent the years since his 2024 retirement surfing in Sri Lanka, watching cricket in Dubai, and learning to make sushi in Japan. Now he's back in North America and stopping by Starkville for a wide-ranging conversation with Jayson and Doug — what he took away from his travels, and how he sees baseball differently from the outside. Plus, the Pittsburgh Zoo and Boston's Franklin Park Zoo j

Which Hitters Have Seen and Hit the Best Pitching?
It’s Fantasy Friday, and with trade season heating up, fantasy managers are getting antsy to make moves. Eno and DVR break down which hitters have faced the nastiest stuff so far this season — and which ones have still managed to thrive. Plus, the guys discuss the risk-reward proposition of paying up for Colt Emerson in redraft leagues, before taking a closer look at the struggles of two key Royal

The ABS Strike Zone is Crushing Some Pitchers, How Can They Adjust?
Little League homers are making a comeback — at least for now — as the numbers have spiked across MLB this season. Eno, Trevor, and DVR break down what’s driving the surge in inside-the-park home runs, which pitchers have been hurt most by ABS, and who the most underrated relievers in baseball are in 2026. Later, the guys answer a Discord question about how MLB’s paternity list works and what it’s
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