Baseball Tonight with Buster Olney
ESPN MLB Insider Buster Olney leads the baseball discussion alongside other top analysts. The podcast covers Major League Baseball news, analysis, and interviews. It provides daily insights into the latest games, trades, and storylines. Listeners get expert perspectives on the sport from ESPN's baseball team.
Episodes
Great Play: Blip or Trend for Yankees, Rays, Marlins, Rangers; Rick Monday on Saving the Flag
Paul “Hembo” Hembekides and Buster Olney play a game of “Trend or Blip,” looking at the Marlins, Rays and Rangers. Then, they discuss why Aaron Judge is the rising tide that lifts all boats for the Yankees, the most obvious trade-deadline match, how bad is this American League — historically speaking, and more on Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s slog of a season. Then, Buster talks to longtime pro Rick Mon
Biggest Mystery: Sox Sweep Yanks; Mets Fire Mendoza; Rays Hold Best AL Record
Tim Kurkjian and Buster Olney discuss the Red Sox sweep of the Yankees and if Boston can dream about the postseason, the Mets firing manager Carlos Mendoza and what it means for the GM David Stearns, why the Angels firing GM Perry Minasian probably won't change much in Anaheim, the Tigers falling out of playoff contention and looking likelier than ever to trade Tarik Skubal, Junior Caminero raking
Ranking the top World Series candidates most likely to dethrone the Dodgers 🤔
Buster Olney is joined by Jorge Castillo and Alden Gonzalez as they take a deep dive into the top World Series contenders and debate which team has the best chance to dethrone the Dodgers as World Series champions. Plus Sarah Langs and Todd Radom join!
0:00 Welcome + Thursday recap
2:50 State of the Dodgers, injuries + Shohei Ohtani greatness
8:39 Will the Dodgers land Tarik Skubal?
13:20 At
Underwater: Devers Drama Continues; Jac Cag Summer; Mariners Stock Rising
Paul “Hembo” Hembekides and Buster discuss the continued strangeness around Rafael Devers refusing to leave the game after being pinch run, Devers calling the situation a “misunderstanding,” Buster Posey not addressing it with the team, the Kansas City Royals’ Jac Caglianone finding his own, the Cincinnati Reds’ Chase Burns keeping the riverboat afloat, why the Seattle Mariners are the biggest cha
Counting Chickens: Rafael Devers Throws a Tantrum; Cardinals Manager Oliver Marmol; MLB Owners Willing to Shut Down the Sport
ESPN.com’s David Schoenfield joins Buster Olney to discuss Rafael Devers’ tantrum after being pinch run, the reality that MLB owners are ready to shut down the sport, the Marlins sweeping the Giants, Kyle Tucker being dropped to seventh in the Dodgers’ lineup, Kyle Schwarber’s three-homer Saturday, a fun series between the October-bound Brewers and Braves, if the Orioles are still alive and the Ti
Challenging Topics: What's It Like to Be Traded?; "Return of the Clowns"; Numbers Game
ESPN MLB analyst Doug Glanville joins Buster Olney to discuss the San Francisco Giants listening to trade offers on Rafael Devers, Matt Chapman and Willy Adames, what it’s like to play in the league while being the subject of trade rumors, and whether the Tigers, Red Sox, Mets, Orioles and others should buy or sell at the deadline. Then, Sarah Langs plays The Numbers Game. Plus, Todd Radom on Left
Hello Kitty: Nationals Manager Blake Butera; Mets & Giants Makeovers?; Deep Dive on Hamate Injuries
Washington Nationals manager Blake Butera joins Buster Olney to discuss CJ Abrams leading the All-Star voting for NL shortstops, his team’s offense racking up runs, leadership from his young core and adjusting to life as a new dad. Then, ESPN’s Jesse Rogers stops by to talk about why the Cubs need to loosen up, incoming makeovers for the Giants and Mets, why the White Sox have staying power, the C
Jacob Misiorowski is the best pitcher since...? | Braves 1B Matt Olson joins the show!
Tim Kurkjian joins to talk about Jacob Misiorowski's latest historical performance: a 15-strikeout complete-game 1-hitter. Buster and Tim also discuss Tarik Skubal's return and what that means for the Tigers, the white hot White Sox, and Pete Crow-Armstrong's correlation to the Cubs' success.
Braves All-Star first baseman Matt Olson then joins to discuss one of the most underrated parts of his ga
Cam Schlittler joins to discuss his incredible season + A historic week for walk-off home runs that will give you chills 😲
Yankees pitcher and AL Cy Young frontrunner Cam Schlittler joins the show to discuss his mindset, his epic postseason debut against the Red Sox last year, how he learned to hit 100 mph, and he shares a great story about how Aaron Judge helped him in a time of need.
Jorge Castillo then joins to discuss Schlittler's dominance, the storybook walk-off home runs from Bryce Eldridge and Braden Montgome
"He's having the greatest Live Ball season of all-time" 🤯 The facts that put Shohei Ohtani above Babe Ruth in the GOAT conversation
We begin with Braden Montgomery hitting a spectacular walk-off home run in his MLB debut. Hembo then stops by to discuss the crazy Athletics-Brewers game from Monday, the Red Sox woes, why Alex Bregman is doing so poorly at Wrigley Field for the Cubs, how Ohtani's two-way season this year exceeds any season of Babe Ruth's, and more.
Eduardo Perez then joins to preview the best MLB prospects in t
Who is the best pitcher in baseball? + Judge's injury and what that means for him and the Yankees
Eric Hosmer joins Buster Olney to talk about Jacob Misiorowski's latest firecracker outing where he threw 45 pitches over 101 mph! Is he the best pitcher in baseball over Paul Skenes, Shohei Ohtani, and Cristopher Sanchez? They also talk through: Aaron Judge's injury and what it means for him and the Yankees this season, Fernando Tatis Jr's struggles, and the AL Wild Card Race.
David Schoenfield
Who is the most fiery manager in MLB? | Will the Red Sox trade for this Mets star? 🤔
Hembo joins the show to discuss Cristopher Sanchez's historic month, a superstar the Red Sox should trade for, Michael Harris II's incredible improvement, Ben Rice's breakout, Bobby Witt Jr.'s obscurity, and how ABS has dramatically helped left-handed hitters.
Blue Jays broadcaster Dan Shulman then stops by to discuss all things Toronto and how the Blue Jays finally have light at the end of the t
ALL OF THE DRAMA at the WCWS; How Ohtani broke out of his slump | Washington Nationals SS CJ Abrams
Jessica Mendoza joins us ahead of the Women's College World Series title rematch between Texas and Texas Tech, recapping all of the drama the tournament has given in the last week (brawls, slander, pregnant pitchers, unique game management... and more!). She also dives into the Dodgers season so far and what she thinks Ohtani's next mountain to climb will be.
Washington Nationals All-Star shortst
"It's Over, It's Not Over" - Which division races are already decided at the beginning of June? | Cleveland Guardians 2B Travis Bazzana Joins
Tim Kurkjian joins Buster Olney as they play a game of "It's Over, It's Not Over" to discuss which division races are already decided as we enter the month of June. They also talk more about the potential for a lockout next season.
Cleveland Guardians rookie second basemen Travis Bazzana then joins to discuss his homeland of Australia and their spiders, his approach to hitting that allows him to
Owners formally propose a salary cap. What that means for a potential lockout next season 🤔
Jesse Rogers joins the show to discuss the news today that MLB owners formally proposed a salary cap for the first time since the 1994 strike. He and Buster dive into how the players union feels about it, and how it affects the prospects for a lockout when the current CBA expires on Dec. 1. They also discuss how the Brewers continue to be successful year-after-year, and where Tarik Skubal might en
Tarik Skubal's trade destinations | Cardinals pitcher Michael McGreevy joins
Hembo joins the show to discuss Houston's no-hitter and if it might impact their "seller" status at the trade deadline. Buster and Hembo also discuss Tarik Skubal's potential destinations, including the team Buster thinks will land him. They also hit on JJ Wetherholt's rise, Jacob Misiorowski's dominance, and Nolan McLean's struggles.
Cardinals pitcher Michael McGreevy then joins the show to disc
Do we need to change the MVP conversation around Shohei Ohtani? | Brewers sweep Cubs, Tarik Skubal trade outlook, Tony Gwynn Jr. joins the show
On today's episode, Buster Olney and David Schoenfield break down the Brewers surge and the Cubs fall, discuss if Tarik Skubal could be traded midseason, why the Astros decade of dominance is over, and if Shohei Ohtani is the favorite in the NL Cy Young award race.
Tony Gwynn Jr. then joins us to discuss the Padres-Dodgers recent series; is it the best rivalry in baseball? Plus Mason Miller's dom
Why the NL is so much better than the AL, Yankees bullpen issues | Mariners exec Jerry Dipoto
Welcome back to the Baseball Tonight podcast! Hembo joins us to talk about the National League's dominance over the American League, the Mets youth movement, Brice Turang stating claim to the best 2nd baseman in baseball, the Yankees bullpen issues, and the Giants historically low walk percentage.
Then Mariners President of Baseball Operations Jerry DiPoto joins to discuss top prospect Colt Emer
Brewers Cy Young hopeful Jacob Misiorowski joins the show + Tim Kurkjian on the White Sox, Phillies, and more
Jacob Misiorowski joins the show to talk about his lights-out performance against the Yankees, the first time he hit 100 mph, his unique relationship with manager Pat Murphy, and more. Then Tim Kurkjian stops by to discuss why hope prevails for the ailing Tigers (and the rest of the AL), the white hot White Sox, the loaded NL Cy Young Race, the Phillies surge, and the best baseball story of the we
The loaded NL Cy Young Race + White Sox GM Chris Getz
Welcome back to the Baseball Tonight podcast! Jorge Castillo joins the show to discuss the loaded NL Cy Young Race between Shohei Ohtani, Paul Skenes, Jacob Misiorowski, and a 4th pitcher who might be the best of all. Buster and Jorge then break down which players on the Mets, Red Sox, and Astros could be dealt at the trade deadline, and finish by discussing what Anthony Volpe should do to keep hi
Why so many superstars are struggling + Konnor Griffin joins the show
Welcome back to the Baseball Tonight Podcast! Pirates rookie shortstop Konnor Griffin joins the show to discuss his adjustment to life in the Big Leagues, the toughest pitchers he's faced, and his favorite ballparks he's played in so far. Hembo then swings by to share why several stars, including Shohei Ohtani, Cal Raleigh, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. are struggling. Then injury expert Stephania Bel
NEW DETAILS about Tarik Skubal's surgery that could be "life-changing" for the game of baseball
Welcome back to the Baseball Tonight podcast, publishing a day early because of breaking news surrounding Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal. His agent, Scott Boras, joined us to give us the details surrounding this first-time surgical procedure on an MLB player that could cut Skubal's recovery time in half. He also shares his memories about the late Bobby Cox.
ESPN's Jesse Rogers then hops on to discus
Why the Braves aren't getting too excited + Yankees rotation getting stronger, Favorite John Sterling memories
Welcome back to the Baseball Tonight Podcast! Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos joins us to detail why he's not getting too excited yet about the Braves best start since 1998, how Matt Olson is getting even better, and his reaction to 62-year-old manager Walt Weiss' tackle during last month's brawl. Yankees fan Rich Eisen then stops by to talk about his favorite John Sterling memories, the time he creepe
Did Framber Valdez plunk Trevor Story because he was upset at Boston stealing signs?
Benches cleared after Tigers pitcher Framber Valdez hit Red Sox batter Trevor Story on Tuesday. Valdez said it was not intentional, while Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said it was a "low moment" for the team. Speculation abounds that Valdez was upset about the Boston stealing signs, rather than the two home runs they hit before Story was beaned. Eduardo Perez joins to break it all down. Later on, Hemb
How superstar Elly De La Cruz has gotten even better | BBTN Pod
Reds Manager Terry Francona joins the show to discuss Elly De La Cruz's improvements this year, what has made rookie Sal Stewart so special early on, and why Boston is such a brutal place to leave as a manager. Then Hunter Pence swings by to talk about two Japanese "rookies" who are lighting up the big leagues: Munetaka Murakami with the White Sox and Kazuma Okamoto with the Blue Jays. He also dis
How the Red Sox season just went from bad to worse
The Boston Red Sox received bad news with star pitcher Garrett Crochet headed to the IL, just a few days after firing manager Alex Cora. Buster Olney and Alden Gonzalez discuss the Red Sox fate this year. They also dive into the Dodgers tactic of benching Shohei Ohtani as a DH when he pitches; how the Atlanta Braves have the best record in baseball; and the resurgence of the Seattle Mariners. Blue
Need Friction: Phillies Fire Manager Rob Thomson; Can Philadelphia save its season?
The Philadelphia Phillies have official fired manager Rob Thomson and named Don Mattingly the interim manager. Buster Olney and Paul "Hembo" Hembekides discussing Thomson's dismissal, why it should've happened after the 2025 postseason, the outlook on Mattingly at interim, where recently fired Alex Cora fits into this puzzle, and Buster's advice for Cora while he examines the landscape. Plus, pani
Unexpected: Red Sox Fire Alex Cora; The Timing, The How & The Why; When Will We See Cora Back in the Dugout?
The Boston Red Sox fire manager Alex Cora, in a stunning early-season move. Buster Olney and Rob Bradford (WEEI, Baseball Isn't Boring) discuss the timing of the firing, how it went down, the power struggle with GM Craig Breslow, what the Red Sox are losing in Cora, John Henry's disappearing act, and when they think we'll see Cora managing again. Then, ESPN's Jesse Rogers stops by to talk about wh
To Blame: Mets' Twin Wins; Phillies Slide On; Elly De La Cruz Leap Year; New Yankee Unis?
The streak is dead! The Mets win two in a row over the Minnesota Twins. Buster Olney and Hembo discuss the Mets’ playoff chances, Buster’s wacky trade idea for Philadelphia, the Phillies’ hilariously thin lineup, the Padres’ sale price, Elly De La Cruz beginning to break out, and why the Athletics should lock up Shea Langeliers. Then, Todd Radom talks about Yankee players pushing for alternate roa
Competitively Disrespectful: Mets Lose 12th Straight; Manny Machado Stops By; NL East Therapy from Bristol
The New York Mets lose their 12th straight game! Buster Olney, David Schoenfield and Jorge Castillo convene in Bristol to discuss the Mets’ tailspin, if the age of the Philadelphia Phillies’ lineup is a hinderance, and why this is the Braves team of two years ago. Then, San Diego Padres third baseman Manny Machado stops by to talk about which milestone number is important to him, Mason Miller’s do
Dry Hacks: Mets Lose 11 Straight; Eric Hosmer on Royals Drama; Ben Rice Breaks Out
The Mets are in a tailspin. Is Carlos Mendoza's job on the line in Queens? Eric Hosmer and Buster Olney talk about why there's no drama between Salvador Perez and manager Matt Quatraro, the Kansas City Royals early struggles, Ben Rice breaking out for the Yankees, who goes to the bullpen in New York when Carlos Rodón returns, and which teams they think are underrated to watch. Then, ESPN's MLB dra
Study: Reds Sal Stewart Stops By; Shohei Ohtani the NL Cy Young Frontrunner?; Rating City Connects
Is Shohei Ohtani the Cy Young frontrunner in the NL? Hembo and Buster discuss that, plus, the Mets’ lineup struggles and Mason Miller mowing guys down. Then Cincinnati Reds infielder Sal Stewart stops by to chat with Buster about his big weekend in Miami, how studying gives him confidence, his at-bat approach, and which pitcher gave him a good cat-and-mouse game. Then, Alden González stops by to t
Retire The Number: Rays Chandler Simpson Stops By; Struggling Stars
The Rays’ Chandler Simpson is a menace on the bases. He joins Buster Olney to discuss what other players say about his speed during games, his on-base obsession, pregame bunting regimen, Tony Gwynn, and Jackie Robinson’s on the field fearlessness. Then, ESPN’s David Schoenfield stops by to talk about star players batting under .200 to start the season and Garrett Crochet’s eyebrow raising game. Pl
“Wingspan Like a Condor”: Padres on 5-Game Heater; Francisco Lindor’s problems are getting weird; Bob Costas Stops By
The New York Yankees were thrown into chaos all weekend long because of the Rays’ Chandler Simpson and his speed. Eduardo Pérez and Buster discuss, plus, the San Diego Padres are hot, can the Sacramento Athletics’ pitching hold up at home, what’s up with the Mets’ Francisco Lindor, and who had the idea for every player to wear No. 42 on Jackie Robinson Day. Later, NBC Sports’ Bob Costas stops by t
Unanimous: Albert Pujols Stops By; Adley Rutschman Has Something to Prove; Budding Braves Star
Future Hall of Famer Albert Pujols joins the podcast! But first, Hembo and Buster talk about the Cardinals’ Jordan Walker, if Konnor Griffin is better than advertised, the Orioles’ Adley Rutschman having something to prove, budding Braves star Drake Baldwin, which pitcher that’s been hurt the most by ABS, and Hembo’s three favorite Pujols stats. Then, the Machine joins the show to discuss which nu
Spear: First Baseball Fight of the Season; Konnor Griffin Gets the Bag; How Two Players from Red Sox Country Made it to the Bronx
Our first baseball fight of the year! The Angels and Braves throw punches, and Atlanta manager Walt Weiss spears Jorge Soler! Plus, the Pittsburgh Pirates sign Konnor Griffin to a 9-year, $120M contract. Then, Buster Olney and Jesse Rogers discuss the messy state of the Cubs’ rotation, the Blue Jays’ rough start, and the Milwaukee Brewers throwing at Red Sox catch Willson Contreras again! Later, Y
Knoblach’s Agent: Pirates are Must-Watch; Jo Adell’s Acrobatic Robberies; Chris “Mad Dog” Russo on Giants & Ohtani vs. Ruth
Angels right fielder Jo Adell robbed three home runs in one game. Was it the greatest defensive performance we’ve ever seen from an outfielder? Tim Kurkjian and Buster Olney discuss. Plus, the guys talk about Konnor Griffin and Paul Skenes make the Pirates must-watch, the NL Central looks strong, if this is Aaron Boone’s best Yankee team, Kyle Harrison and the Brewers rolling along, and if José Ra
Small, Simple Moves: Pirates Call Up #1 Prospect Konnor Griffin; Joe Buck Stops By
Konnor Griffin gets the call to The Show. Eric Hosmer and Buster Olney discuss the Pirates calling up the No. 1 prospect in baseball, the Miami Marlins off to a surprising start, Cam Schlittler cruising, if Shohei Ohtani is actually AI and the Kansas City Royals honoring the late Terrance Gore. Then, Joe Buck stops by to talk about calling the Jackie Robinson Game on ESPN, writing his Baseball Hal
Big Fish: Mike Trout Joins the Show!; Andrew Painter Debuts; Shohei Sizzles; Should the Cubs be Worried?
Angels center fielder Mike Trout joins Buster to discuss a strong start to the season, reflecting on the past few season, striving for the postseason, his relationship with new manager Kurt Suzuki, and his first impressions of the ABS System. Then, Hembo talks about Phillies prospect Andrew Painter impressing in his debut, Shohei Ohtani’s outrageous first outing, what’s behind prospects Colt Emers
Relaxed: Hunter Pence on ABS First Impressions, Rookies, Giants; Blue Jays & Yankees Sweep
It was an exciting first weekend of MLB action! Hunter Pence and Buster Olney discuss shaking off Opening Day jitters, how rookies dominated the conversation to start the season, first impressions of the ABS System, the San Francisco Giants starting 0-3, and how teams move on from losses. Then, ESPN’s Jorge Castillo stops by to talk about the Toronto Blue Jays and New York Yankees sweeping their r
Opening Day Overreactions: Aaron Judge 0-fer; Rookies Shine, Can the Dodgers Win 103 Games?
Let’s overreact to MLB Opening Day 2026! Karl Ravech, Eduardo Pérez and Buster Olney discuss the joy of baseball’s return, why the overreactions to Aaron Judge’s first game don’t make sense, Paul Skenes getting knocked around with an assist from Oneil Cruz, all the rookies who shined in their debuts, if the Dodgers can win more than 102 games, another quality start from Tarik Skubal, Junior Camine
Opening Day 2026: Cubs Throw Cash at PCA; Pitching Ninja on the Best Pitches in Baseball
MLB Opening Day 2026 has arrived! Buster Olney and Hembo discuss the Chicago Cubs locking up Pete Crow-Armstrong to a six-year, $115 million deal, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. ascending to superstar, MLB's No. 2 prospect Kevin McGonigle making the Tigers Opening Day roster, why Cinncinati Reds rookie Sal Stewart could be the rock of their lineup, if Wyatt Langford can make noise in the AL MVP race, and w
Hangover or Continuation: Picking Division Winners, Wild Card Teams & More; Red Sox Manager Alex Cora Stops By
Opening Day is right around the corner. Buster Olney and Jesse Rogers discuss some of the storylines playing out at Spring Training while the World Baseball Classic wrapped up. The Rangers’ Wyatt Langford looks great, the Braves’ offense needs to get right and the Blue Jays are slow-playing Trey Yesavage. Then, Jesse shares his predictions for division and award winners, and his wild card teams. N
Loved Every Second: Venezuela Tops Team USA to Win an Exciting WBC!
Venezuela earns its first World Baseball Classic title, defeating Team USA 3-2 in a dramatic final game. Buster Olney and Tim Kurkjian discuss what a fun tournament this edition of the WBC was, Venezuela taking down the United States and Japan on its way to a championship, the celebration that ensued, which players shined, the United States’ failure to get the offense going, and what they would ch
Blair Witch Podcast: USA-Venezuela to Face-Off in the WBC Final, Joe Davis Stops By
The World Baseball Classic final is set: The United States will face Venezuela for the championship. FOX play-by-play voice Joe Davis joins Buster to discuss Venezuela beating Italy 4-2 to advance to the final, Aaron Nola starting for Italy, Venezuela putting the ball in play, what Venezuela and the United States need from their starting pitchers in the final, and which final adjustments Team USA
Stiff and Serious: Team USA Defeats the Dominican Republic 2-1, Advancing to the WBC Final
Team USA wins a tight World Baseball Classic semifinal 2-1 over the Dominican Republic. Buster Olney and Dave Schoenfield link up following the game to discuss the bad strike call that ended the game, Team USA's outstanding bullpen, the Dominican Republic's missed opportunities, Junior Caminero hitting another bomb, Julio Rodriguez and Aaron Judge making outrageous defensive plays, Red Sox fans sa
Magnitude: Tigers A.J. Hinch on Team USA Conversations with Tarik Skubal + WBC Quarterfinal Preview
What makes LoanPark Depot in Miami so loud? Alden Gonzalez and Buster Olney investigate the parties on the concourse. Plus, Mark DeRosa’s rough few days as manager of Team USA, the Americans avoiding embarrassment with help from Italy, if they believe Randy Arozarena and Cal Raleigh are cool, and a look at the World Baseball Classic quarterfinals. Then, Detroit Tigers manager A.J. Hinch stops by t
Taking Flack: Tarik Skubal Done at WBC; Cal Raleigh & Randy Arozarena Awkwardness; Scott Boras on Skubal’s Decision
Tarik Skubal will not pitch again for Team USA in this World Baseball Classic. Buster Olney and Hembo discuss his decision, the flack he’s getting for it and if Mark DeRosa should’ve publicly defended Skubal. Then, the guys discuss Cal Raleigh refusing to shake Seattle Mariners teammate Randy Arozarena during USA-Mexico, the Phillies signing Jesus Luzardo, and which number Bryce Harper should chas
Tell Me If I’m Weird: Best WBC Moments So Far; Tim Kurkjian’s Spring Training Observations
What was your favorite moment from the first weekend of World Baseball Classic action? Buster and Eric Hosmer discuss. Plus, Manny Machado mentoring breakout start Junior Caminero on the Dominican Republic, and should Tarik Skubal pitch another game for the U.S.? Then, Tim Kurkjian talks about what gets him fired up about the WBC, Kyle Schwarber’s home run against Great Britain, a high schooler fo
The List: ESPN's Top-100 MLB Players Drops; Top Player Draft; MLB Official on ABS Challenge System
ESPN released its 2026 Top-100 ranking of MLB players, and somehow Shohei Ohtani wasn’t the unanimous No. 1 pick? Buster, Jesse Rogers and ESPN.com MLB editor Liz Finny share their reactions to the top-100 list, including Mike Trout’s absence. Then, the gang drafts their top players in the league, and things go sideways at pick No. 2. Next, Buster and Jesse discuss injuries to Jeremy Peña and Hunt
Stuffiness: Jurickson Profar Suspended 162 Games; Concern for Roki Sasaki; Mariners Preview
Atlanta Braves’ outfielder Jurickson Profar was suspended for the entire 2026 season, leaving the Braves in a hole as the season nears. Buster Olney, Karl Ravech and Eduardo Perez discuss. Plus, what is the level of concern for Roki Sasaki, their takeaways after a day with the Detroit Tigers, and who they’re picking to win the World Baseball Classic. Then, Hembo stops by to talk about the most imp
Grinder: Cubs GM Jed Hoyer; Non-Dodger World Series Contenders Draft; Cards Extend Ollie Marmol
The Cardinals extend manager Oliver Marmol, Tarik Skubal has high praise for Tigers’ prospect Kevin McGonigle, and the World Baseball Classic is about to begin. Buster Olney and David Schoenfield discuss. Plus, the guys draft World Series hopefuls that have the best chances of unseat the Los Angeles Dodgers. Then, Chicago Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer stops by to talk about how h
Neither: Max Scherzer Back for Season 19; WBC Preview; Charlies Barkley; Astros & Marlins Previews
Max Scherzer returns for his 19th MLB season, re-signing with the Toronto Blue Jays after his daughter wrote the organization a heartfelt note. Plus, the World Baseball Classic starts next week, and the Braves start their own TV network. Buster Olney, Jorge Castillo and Alden González discuss. Then, Charles Barkley stops by to talk about why he loves sports so much, rooting for the Blue Jays in th
Zone Remains the Same: Aaron Boone on the ABS System & How Judge Could Benefit; Braves Extend Chris Sale
The Braves extend Chris Sale, Buster drops his top-ten corner outfielders and which players stand to benefit from the ABS System? Hembo and Buster discuss. Plus, is Konnor Griffin a generational talent? Then, Yankees manager Aaron Boone stops by to talk about whether Aaron Judge’s size will benefit him with ABS, how he’s instructed his team to deal with the ABS System, if his interactions with ump
Big News: Gerrit Cole Throws 97 MPH; Did the Red Sox Have an Underrated Offseason?; Shortstop Draft
The podcast is available for viewing on ESPN's MLB YouTube page!
The Yankees’ Gerrit Cole is showing off his stuff at Spring Training. How soon will he return to the rotation? Buster Olney, Tim Kurkjian and David Schoenfield discuss. Plus, Major League Baseball is in a golden age of shortstops, Dave and Tim draft who they think are the top eight shortstops in the league, Dave thinks the Red Sox h
Equipment Closet: MLBPA Needs Urgency; Alex Bregman as the Anti-Kyle Tucker; Cubs Preview
Eric Hosmer and Buster discuss Hos’ breakout candidates for the spring, and the deep seated issues facing the MLBPA. Next, Jesse Rogers stops by to share his thoughts on Alex Bregman in a Cubs uniform, Pete Crow-Armstrong as an x-factor in the league, the change in leadership in the players’ union, and why Andrew Miller will play a key role in the labor negotiations. Then, Buster previews the Chic
Reflections: World Series Managers Dave Roberts & John Schneider Stop By; Tony Clark Resigns
Jorge Castillo and Buster discuss MLBPA executive director Tony Clark resigning amid scandal, during a time the players' union needs stability and leadership. Then, Blue Jays manager John Schneider joins the show to talk about being deliberate with moving on after the World Series, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s leadership and his initial impressions of Dylan Cease. Next, Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave
Saying Something Nice: Bryce Harper is Yapping; Manny Machado is Also Yapping; Dodgers Preview
Tim Kurkjian, David Schoenfield and Buster discuss Bryce Harper first public response to Dave Dombrowski’s comments, Harper and Kyle Schwarber not exactly defending Nick Castellanos, Manny Machado’s thoughts on the Los Angeles Dodgers' spending, if Shohei Ohtani can pitch enough games to win a Cy Young, the Braves in need of another starting pitcher, the guys’ win projection for the Dodgers. Then,
Disproportionate: Nick Castellanos Released & Details Revealed; Latest on Labor Talks; Orioles & Rockies Previews
Jeff Passan and Buster discuss the circumstances surrounding the Phillies releasing Nick Castellanos, the latest on labor relations from the owners meeting, the wide range of outcomes for the Mets, and why Jeff is bullish on the Orioles. Then, Buster previews Baltimore, and the Colorado Rockies.
CALL THE SHOW: 406-404-8460
EMAIL THE SHOW: BleacherTweets@gmail.com
REACH OUT ON X: #BLEACHERTWEETS
Off the Knob: Francisco Lindor and Others Break Their Hamates; Tigers Poised to Pounce; Mariners Heavy AL West Favorite
Karl Ravech, Eduardo Perez and Buster discuss the spate of hamate bone injuries across baseball, hitters chasing bat speed, Spencer Schwellenbach starting the season on the 60-day IL, the re-envisioned Tigers with Framber Valdez in the rotation, Blue Jays analyst Buck Martinez leaving the booth, which players will get the green light to challenge pitches on the spot, and the reconfigured Red Sox.
Clear Villain: Tigers Should've Paid Tarik Skubal; Team Win Totals Release; Kiley McDaniel on Prospect Top-100
Hembo and Buster discuss the Mariners waiting out the market and trading for Brendan Donovan from the Cardinals, why the Tigers are doing Tarik Skubal dirty by not paying him, Hembo’s best pitcher in baseball, and which team win totals look ripe for a wager. Then, Kiley McDaniel stops by to talk about the Donovan trade from the Cardinals’ perspective, his excitement over top prospect Konnor Griffi
Tim Kurkjian Tough: Framber Valdez Lingering; Offseason Losers; Stephania Bell on Injuries to Watch Heading Into Spring
Tim Kurkjian, Jesse Rogers and Buster discuss the thought process behind Hall of Fame voting with the news of Bill Belichick's NFL first-ballot snub, Tim's tales of new Hall of Famers Andruw Jones and Carlos Beltran, Cody Bellinger bolstering the Yankees, why Framber Valdez could go unsigned for weeks, potential suitors for the Cardinals' Brendan Donovan, and the offseason's biggest losers (so far
Regenerate: Mets Get Their Ace; What’s Next for the Brewers; A Pair of Center Fielders Make the HOF
Hembo and Buster discuss the top of the Dodger lineup, the Mets trading for Freddy Peralta, the impact on the Brewers, why Hembo thinks the Phillies will win the NL East, and Cody Bellinger’s player friendly deal with the Yankees. Then, Sarah Langs has an essay on newly minted Hall of Famers, Andruw Jones and Carlos Beltrán. Later, Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, stop
🚨EMERGENCY POD: Reacting to MAJOR Kyle Tucker & Bo Bichette signing news!
Buster is joined by Alden Gonzalez and David Schoenfield to break down the major news that the Dodgers have signed Kyle Tucker to a four-year $240 million deal. The Mets have also signed Bo Bichette to a three-year $126 million contract. The guys take a deep dive into both signings, what they mean for each team, and what these deals mean for the league at large.
Learn more about your ad choices.
Everything Scale: Alex Bregman is a Cub; What’s Next for the Red Sox?
Karl Ravech, Jesse Rogers and Buster discuss the Cubs signing Alex Bregman to a five-year, $175 million deal, the Red Sox failed pursuit of Bregman, what the deal means for Chicago and Boston, the Yankees and Cody Bellinger continuing at an impasse in contract negotiations, and the wide arbitration gap between Tarik Skubal and the Tigers.
CALL THE SHOW: 406-404-8460
EMAIL THE SHOW: BleacherTweet
Still Pending: Buster’s Five Unanswered Offseason Questions; Cubs Make a Big Move
Jorge Castillo, David Schoenfield and Buster discuss the Cubs trading the Marlins for Edward Cabrera, the latest on Kyle Tucker, what the Mets will do next after trading Jeff McNeil, if the Yankees will re-sign Cody Bellinger, where Alex Bregman will land, and when teams will start pulling back players from the trade market. Plus, Sarah Langs on free agent pitchers Framber Valdez and Ranger Suarez
Mr. Grinch: Bleacher Tweet Holiday Mailbag; Red Sox Trade for Wilson Contreras; Phillies' Bullpen Makeover
Buster put the call out to the listeners and the Bleacher Tweeters answered! Buster digs into the inbox to deliver shoutouts to our One Dot Club listeners and answer questions. Plus, what's Buster making for Christmas dinner, and why can't he keep a secret? Then, Tim Kurkjian stops by as he awaits the birth of a grandchild to talk about the Red Sox trading for Wilson Contreras, the Phillies re-too
Copacetic: State of the Mets; Evaluating Catchers; Phillies & Braves' Latest Moves; Labor Situation
Hembo and Buster discuss their yearly task of putting together top-10 player lists, evaluating catchers, the Phillies signing Adolis Garcia, the Braves' retool plan, and the market trends Hembo is seeing this offseason. Then, Jeff Passan talks about the state of the Mets, how he thinks the Tigers should handle Tarik Skubal, the shifting intra-division dynamics, and the latest on the labor situatio
Dominoes: Pete Alonso is an Oriole; Ripple Effects for the Mets; Paul Skenes’ Interesting Comments
Hembo and Buster discuss whether Paul Skenes is gently pushing the Pirates into action, the Orioles signing Pete Alonso to a five-year deal, the Mets’ surprising lack of interest in Alonso, the pressure on David Stearns, and why Bo Bichette should be the Yankees’ free agent prize. Then, Alden Gonzalez and Jorge Castillo stop by to talk about the important stretch of the offseason ahead of the Mets
Set The Market: Kyle Schwarber Re-Signs with Phillies; Edwin Diaz is a Dodgers; More from Winter Meetings
There is big-name player movement! Buster talks to Bob Nightengale, Jesse Rogers and Steve Phillips — all three at the Winter Meetings in Orlando.
CALL THE SHOW: 406-404-8460
EMAIL THE SHOW: BleacherTweets@gmail.com
REACH OUT ON X: #BLEACHERTWEETS
3:53 Bob Nightengale
16:40 Jesse Rogers
42:05 Steve Phillips
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Theme of the Winter: What Buster’s Hearing on Free Agency; Nationals President of Baseball Ops Paul Toboni Stops by
Hembo and Buster discuss the free agency trend Buster is seeing as he talks to people around the league, which blockbuster trade Hembo wants to go down, and the most polarizing free agent on the market. Then, Buster talks to the Nationals’ new president of baseball operations Paul Toboni. Later, Alden Gonzalez and Jorge Castillo get into Kyle Tucker’s current market, why the Phillies must retain K
Thanksgiving: Blue Jays Sign Dylan Cease; Red Sox Trade for Sonny Gray; Brandon Nimmo-Marcus Semien Swapped
Buster sits down to give thanks and discuss the Blue Jays signing Dylan Cease to a seven year deal, Toronto pursuing an aggressive posture, the Mets trading Brandon Nimmo for Marcus Semien, the Red Sox trading for Sonny Gray, St. Louis adding to its talent as the team rebuilds, and the confusion around the Grayson Rodriguez-Taylor Ward trade.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
WE'RE GRATEFUL FOR ALL OF YOU! W
Pitcher Manager: New Padres Skipper Craig Stammen; Mariners Sign Josh Naylor; Orioles Make a Big Trade
David Schoenfield and Buster discuss the Mariners signing Josh Naylor, the Orioles trading Grayson Rodriguez to the Angels for Taylor Ward, the Cy Young and MVPs being awarded, Tarik Skubal’s trade value, and a pitcher in the manager’s seat. Then, new Padres manager Craig Stammen stops by to talk about when his conversations with San Diego started, playing basketball with A.J. Preller, his relatio
Fluent: Rockies Hire Football Guy; Dombo and Harper on the Mend; Notable Japanese Free Agents
Tim Kurkjian and Buster discuss the Rockies hiring Paul DiPodesta from the Cleveland Browns to run the team, Dave Dombrowski and Bryce Harper patching things up, Paul Skenes’ future with the Pirates, Nolan Arenado’s trade prospects, and what’s next for the Blue Jays. Then, Hembo stops by to talk about the big free agents coming out of Japan in Tatsuya Imai, Munetaka Murakami and Kazuma Okamoto. Pl
Ambitious Vision: New Giants Manager Tony Vitello; Ravy on the Red Sox & Pete Alonso
Buster and Karl Ravech discuss Ravy’s experiences with new Giants manager Tony Vitello while he was in Knoxville, why World Series Game 7 in 1991 was on-par with this year’s World Series Game 7, the much-discussed Isiah Kiner-Falefa secondary lead, the Tigers exploring trades for Tarik Skubal, if the Mets will re-sign Pete Alonso, and what the Red Sox should do this winter. Then, newly appointed S
After Your Shower: The Offseason is Here; Reporter Roundtable; Hembo; “Green Fields of the Mind”
Alden Gonzalez, Jesse Rogers, Jorge Castillo and Buster take a look at the offseason and discuss what’s next for the Dodgers, Cubs, Blue Jays, Yankees, Brewers, Padres, Phillies, Mets, and Tigers. Then, Hembo stops by to talk about the dynamic in Philadelphia between Dave Dombrowski and Bryce Harper, his top three sleep free agents, and if he would trade Tarik Skubal. Next, Todd Radom shares his r
Speechless: Dodgers Repeat as World Series Champs in Dramatic Game 7
Eduardo Perez and Buster discuss the Los Angeles Dodgers defeating the Toronto Blue Jays in Game 7 of the World Series, and winning back-to-back championships. They talk about Miguel Rojas’ home run to tie the game, if this was the best game they’ve ever seen, a devastating loss for the Blue Jays, Will Smith’s go-ahead home run, if Dave Roberts punched his Hall of Fame ticket, Yoshinobu Yamamoto p
Party in the Club: Dodgers Win Game 6; World Series Game 7 on Deck; Clown Stroll
Jessica Mendoza and Buster go on a Clown Stroll in the streets of Toronto after the Dodgers beat the Blue Jays 3-1 in Game 6, forcing Game 7 of the World Series. They discuss George Springer playing through pain, Mookie Betts finally getting a big hit, another Yoshinobu Yamamoto gem, Justin Wrobleski stepping up, Kike Hernandez’s catch, why Miguel Rojas was the unsung hero of the night, and their
Strong Feeling: Blue Jays One Win Away From a World Series; Clown Car
Jessica Mendoza and Buster are in the Clown Car following the Blue Jays’ 6-1 Game 5 victory in the World Series. The discuss the Trey Yesavage show, all-time swing and miss performance in the World Series, how Yesavage utilized his slider, the Dodgers looking tired, the Blue Jays executing the game plan against Blake Snell, what it takes to win back-to-back titles, home field lacking importance th
Punch Back: Blue Jays Tie World Series 2-2 with Dominant Game 4 Win; Clown Car
Jessica Mendoza and Buster are in the Clown Car discussing the Blue Jays responding to win Game 4 after the 18-inning heartbreak in Game 3. They talk about why these teams continue to appear so evenly matched, Shohei Ohtani and Shane Bieber both performing admirably on the mound, when the Dodgers offense will really break through, the hole at No. 9 in Los Angeles’ lineup, Bo Bichette’s shockingly
