Rates & Barrels: A show about Baseball

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 defending champs, calling last season’s World Series, and what makes Shohei Ohtani unlike anyone else. Plus, Strange But True from a wild night in Philadelphia.

Rundown:

2:53 A New Nickname for The Miz

13:14 Joe Davis Joins the Show

15:05 Wild Night in Philadelphia

17:50 Broadcasting the Dodgers

19:28 2026 Los Angeles Dodgers

27:30 The Legend of Shohei Ohtani

33:45 Reaction to ABS

35:10 ‘Gibby Meet Freddie’

40:03 Calling Game 7 of 2025 World Series

45:30 Strange But True

Follow Jayson on Bluesky: @jaysonst.bsky.social

Follow Doug on Bluesky: @dougglanville.bsky.social

E-mail: starkville@theathletic.com

Starkville Hotline: (347) 313-8371

Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels

Hosts: Jayson Stark & Doug Glanville

With: Joe Davis

Producer: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 for Arizona's rotation, and another round of Name That Dude featuring a player from the past.

Rundown:

2:20 The LOL Mets Return?

9:12 Constant Tension Caused by the Environment?

13:29 Only Four Teams Have Lost More WARP to the IL (source: BP)

15:14 Will Mets Rally Before Deadline?

22:32 Arizona Pitching Woes: A Two-Year Struggle

25:20 Zac Gallen: Struggling to Adjust to Reduced Stuff?

48:30 What’s Next for the Group?

53:03 Does Defense Play a Significant Role in LOB%?

58:36 Elite Relievers Typically Have Great LOB% Marks

1:03:45 Name! That! Dude!

Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.social

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Host: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Trevor May

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 ongoing saga involving Buster Posey, Rafael Devers, and the Giants.

Rundown:

1:09 Bat Speed Increases: How Do You Typically Get There?

3:25 Zack Gelof Injury: Feeling Healthy Also Helps

6:35 Does Season Help Hitters Get “Locked In”?

10:18 Bat Speed Risers: Last 30 Days vs. April

18:08 Intriguing Movers: Nasim Nuñez & Masyn Winn

23:27 Fernando Tatis Jr.: Bat Speed Up, Big Second Half On Tap?

25:29 Stuff+ Fallers: Where Are We Concerned?

32:30 Kevin Gausman: Where Does DVR Rank Him?

37:38 Stuff+ Shelves? Thresholds Might be Key

40:06 Paul Skenes: Maybe the Model is Just Missing Something?

41:03 Will Warren: What’s the Second-Half Outlook?

46:11 Buster Posey’s Presser: Making a Bad Situation Worse

57:26 ‘GM Speak’ About Deadline Approach

1:01:59 Cole Ragans & Edward Cabrera Updates

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Host: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 Emerson.

Rundown:

1:00 Elly Returns Tuesday, Woodruff & Singer Shine

6:10 Game Reviews: ATL-SD

14:50 Game Reviews: BAL-LAA

24:00 The Orioles Are Built to Keep Pushing Chips In

27:33 What Could the Trade Deadline Bring in Miami?

35:03 Talking Mariners: Ryan Divish Joins the Show!

35:47 Trader Jerry’s Options

38:44 What to Do with Pitching Excess?

41:47 How M’s Rotation Got On Board with Piggybacking

46:10 Emerson Hancock: A Very Pleasant Surprise in 2026

47:52 Early Impressions of Colt Emerson

52:25 Game Reviews: NYY-DET

Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.social

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Host: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Britt Ghiroli

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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. Plus, a look at where fantasy managers spent their money over the weekend.

Rundown:

2:29 Why is Drag Suddenly Back to 2019 Levels?

7:17 Who Will Be Impacted With Less Drag on the Baseball?

14:43 Most Frustrating Hitters: Who Drives Us Crazy at the Dish?

16:54 Jackson Merrill: Overall, More Aggressive Than Anticipated

26:35 Freddy Peralta: Can He Rebound to Pre-2026 Form?

32:22 Buy-Low Pitchers

38:20 Bryce Harper & Kyle Schwarber Erupt

42:09 The Rays’ Slide: When Things Get Quiet

46:54 Where the Money Went

Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.social

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Host: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 star Colt Emerson, and his Immaculate Grid strategy. Plus, he shares some incredible reflections on the legendary Ichiro Suzuki. To wrap it all up, Jayson and Doug head to Las Vegas for an explosive edition of Strange But True.

Rundown:

3:19 Nolan Ryan on Jacob Misiorowski

15:17 Jerry Dipoto Visits Starkville

16:00 Dipoto vs. Glanville

18:27 The First Place Mariners

20:17 The ‘Piggyback’ Strategy

28:00 ‘Trader Jerry’

35:15 Colt Emerson

39:18 The Immaculate Grid

45:07 Living a ‘Baseball Life’

48:30 The Legend of Ichiro

55:08 Strange But True

Follow Jayson on Bluesky: @jaysonst.bsky.social

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E-mail: starkville@theathletic.com

Starkville Hotline: (347) 313-8371

Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels

Hosts: Jayson Stark & Doug Glanville

With: Jerry Dipoto

Producer: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 weekend’s waiver-wire preview.

Rundown

0:00 Intro

1:12 Eno’s Updated Rankings: A Few Disagreements

2:38 George Kirby: Pitching Within Bottom Range of His Outcomes?

6:54 Jesús Luzardo: Is the OOPSY Projection Too Optimistic?

9:18 Bryce Miller: DVR’s Case to Move Him Higher

13:08 Reid Detmers: Eno Pushes Back on Rosy Second-Half Outlook

17:18 Shane Baz: Does Recent Form Point to More Success?

20:44 A DVR Challenge! Park Factors Update: BAL & DET

25:47 Justin Wrobleski: Do We Need to Watch More Baseball?

32:57 Waiver Wire Targets: Eury Pérez & Shane Bieber Returning Soon

40:17 Brandon Young: A Rankings Update Omission?

42:54 Griffin Jax: Having Success in Short Outings As Starter

45:59 Better Roster Stash?: Injured Aces vs. Top Prospects

52:44 Waiver Wire Targets: S. Taylor, D. Guzman & C. Moore

59:06 Post-Hype Sleeper?: Endy Rodríguez Is Cooking in Pittsburgh

Eno’s Fresh SP Rankings ($): https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7370900


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Host: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Editor: Jessie Auritt

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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’s Debut: The Long Road of a Former Top Prospect

5:48 Make It Make Sense: Why Are People Weird About Driveline?

15:56 Emotions & Outcomes: Dismissing Evidence in the Face of Frustration

23:38 Miss Distance Leaderboards: How We Want to Use This for Pitchers

27:39 Low Hanging Fruit: More Bat Adjustments Coming?

32:20 Arsenal Effects: Is Movement Spread Key to Andrew Abbott Tricking Us?

37:20 Flawed Swings: Pitches That Completely Confound Hitters

40:38 At the Bottom: Takeaways From Lowest Flawed Swing Rate Pitchers?

47:13 Inherited Runners: ‘We Should Account for Inherited Runners Better’ - Ben Clemens

52:09 Win Probability Added: Still A Very Effective Way to Measure Relievers

Miss Distance Leaderboard: http://theathletic.lnk.to/MissDist

Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.social

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Host: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Trevor May

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 daunting round of Name! That! Dude!

Rundown:

0:50 Drew Rasmussen’s Run

3:48 Eno at World Cup

6:33 Cooper Pratt’s Debut

8:47 Sal Stewart vs. Bryce Eldridge

12:20 Adjustment Phases: The League Will Find Flaws, Eventually

18:11 Leaning on Strengths: Use Them Until They Stop Working!

26:04 Zone Rates for Feared Hitters

32:30 Middle-Middle Fastballs: Another Potential Indicator?

38:04 Rafael Devers’ Slide

40:20 Alex Bregman: Declining Gracefully Still Messes with Us

42:18 Mookie Betts: Plate Discipline Holding Steady

45:36 Vision Driving Decline

50:08 Name! That! Dude!

Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.social

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Host: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Jed Lowrie

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 challenge of creating a baseball game that mirrors the real thing.

Rundown:

1:04 Jared Jones’ Slow Start

7:14 Chase Burns’ Dominance

17:34 Logan Gilbert’s Slider & Splitter Blurring Together

19:25 Dustin May’s ROS Outlook

26:01 Is the Phillies’ Lineup Still ‘Good’?

30:22 Walbert Ureña Quietly Pitching Well in Anaheim

34:00 JT Ginn Deals Again

38:28 Trey Yesavage’s Lack of Command

42:00 20 Years of MLB The Show

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Host: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Editor: Jason Potere

With: Chris Gill

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 at Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s continued struggles and examine where fantasy managers spent their money over the weekend.

Rundown:

3:20 Tarik Skubal's Return

9:17 José Ramírez Lands on IL

11:59 Vinnie Pasquantino to the IL

17:22 A Weird Series in KC

20:31 Hunter Brown is Back!

24:33 A ‘Maddux’ From The Miz

31:42 Cooper Pratt Promoted

41:45 Luis Lara’s Extension

46:14 Ryan Waldschmidt Sent to Reno

50:31 Vlad Jr. Check-In

54:42 Where the Money Went

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Host: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 the modern game, and Jo Adell makes another appearance in Strange But True — though this chapter of the story isn't nearly as triumphant as the last one.

Rundown:

2:50 Manny Machado Dislikes Analytics

13:55 J.T. Realmuto Joins the Show

14:48 Golfing with Kyle Schwarber

16:58 From Thomson to Mattingly

21:30 Catching Cristopher Sánchez

25:11 Sánchez vs. Misiorowski

29:12 Adjusting to ABS

32:38 Being a Catcher in 2026

37:41 2026 Team Expectations

41:21 Realmuto & Freeman’s Dust-Up

43:10 Strange But True: Jo Adell

Follow Jayson on Bluesky: @jaysonst.bsky.social

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E-mail: starkville@theathletic.com

Starkville Hotline: (347) 313-8371

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Hosts: Jayson Stark & Doug Glanville

With: J.T. Realmuto

Producer: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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-term outlook as he turns 35 next April before sharing reviews from his latest ballpark hot dog tour through Detroit and Miami.

Rundown:

0:37 James Anderson Joins the Show

1:55 Draft-Day Regrets: Price Enforcing & the Cal Raleigh Premium

6:25 Prospect Profiles: How Has Increased Data Altered Your Targets?

11:39 Chasing Unicorns: Could Aaron Judge’s Success Lead Us Astray?

14:38 Accounting for the Ball: How Is James Dealing with Lively Minor-League Baseball?

20:46 2026 Prospects to Come: Are We Facing a Drought Until Mid-August?

23:45 Braden Montgomery

27:26 Cole Carrigg

30:07 Jordan Lawlar

33:58 Jac Caligianone is Heating Up!

37:12 The Big Picture: Are We Always Going to Be Limited by Waiver-Wire Pitching?

41:19 Making Draft-Day Adjustments to Avoid In-Season Shortages

43:36 Hagen Smith May Debut This Weekend

48:17 Other SPs to Consider

52:31 Closer Carousel: Low Bids Could Pay Off on Elvis Alvarado

54:46 Niv Shah Joins the Show

55:35 Aaron Judge in Ottoneu & Other Keeper/Dynasty Leagues

1:07:13 Detroit Dog Reviews: The Tiger Tail & A Polish Sausage

1:10:46 Taste of the Majors: Behold, The ‘Miami Dog’!

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Host: Derek VanRiper

With: James Anderson and Niv Shah

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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, Max Meyer, and Bryce Elder, to determine who’s most likely to cool off in the months ahead.

Rundown:

3:35 Garrett Crochet’s Injury Setback

8:37 The White Sox Did Well in Crochet Trade

11:22 Reid Detmers as a Trade Candidate?

18:32 Oneil Cruz Out with Broken Hand

28:20 Fear the Regression Monster? Or Feed the Beast?

28:57 Dillon Dingler: Fully Buying the 2026 Power Breakout?

32:47 James Wood: Will He Avoid Second-Half Slide?

38:30 Jordan Walker Homers Again: Is a 30-20 Season On Tap?

42:17 Brandon Lowe: Resurgence Hinges on Continued Good Health?

46:08 José Soriano: Has the Regression Monster Already Arrived?

51:09 Gavin Williams: A Capital ‘A’ Ace Now?

54:42 Max Meyer: Will He Hold Up Through Career-High Workload?

59:30 Bryce Elder: Better than ROS Projections, Right?

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Host: Derek VanRiper

With: Stephen Nesbitt

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 pressing questions: Is Brandon Marsh good?

Rundown:

0:45 New Toys at Baseball Savant!

12:54 Lawrence Butler: Can He Press Reset in 2026, or Beyond?

23:42 Evan Carter: Homers & Steals, Without a Supporting Slash Line

31:03 Coby Mayo: A Pull-Heavy Approach Gone Too Far?

40:45 Masyn Winn: Will the Bat Catch Up to His Elite Glove?

46:45 Marcelo Mayer: Can He Live Up to His Potential?

50:24 Are PCA’s Adjustments Paying Off?

55:20 Is Brandon Marsh Good?

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Host: Derek VanRiper

With: Jed Lowrie

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 they sell at the deadline?

Later, Eno and DVR are joined by Patrick Mooney of The Athletic to discuss the Cubs’ disappointing season, what’s gone wrong, and whether there’s still a path back into the playoff race.

Rundown:

0:36 Brewers-A’s Goes PCL: Outdoor Baseball in Vegas in June, Yikes!

7:48 Manny Machado’s Frustration: Was Analytics Rant Just Venting?

15:20 It’s About Communication: Always Has Been, Always Will Be

22:10 Longer Road Trips? Would Teams Benefit From Less Back-and-Forth?

26:13 Should They Be Buyers? Watching White Sox, Cards & Nats Closely

41:36 Braden Montgomery Gets the Call

43:58 Patrick Mooney Joins the Show

44:18 An Unusual Start: Making Sense of Cubs’ Streaky Path to 34-22

46:32 Sitting in Discomfort: Believing in the Core to Click Despite Early Struggles

49:25 Trade Deadline Plan: How Much Rides on Path to a Wild-Card Round Bye?

52:15 Pitching Development: Why Are the Cubs Short on Arms?

56:02 A Pleasant Surprise: Ben Brown is Cruising in the Rotation

57:52 PCA Back to MVP Form? What Has Changed in His Approach?

Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.social

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Britt Ghiroli

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 show with a look at where the money went in fantasy leagues over the weekend.

Rundown:

1:43 Tarik Skubal Fires Five Scoreless Frames

3:24 Josh Naylor vs. Detroit: Another Interesting Chapter

7:50 Bryce Miller Shoves

15:36 League Shamed! Are We Making Our Leagues Too Easy?

21:15 Reid Detmers’ Step Forward: Buying Better Ratios Ahead?

22:05 Bryce Miller Never Underwent Surgery

23:52 Michael Soroka is Dealing Again

30:41 DVR Is Intrigued by Edward Cabrera

33:47 Spencer Strider Still Adjusting to Wider Mix, Lesser Stuff?

38:13 Emmet Sheehan’s Odyssey Continues

42:49 Will Relievers Get Dinged More By Smaller Zone?

49:52 Where the Money Went: Nootbar, The Martian & Cowser Lead the Way

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 President of Baseball Operations and General Manager Matt Arnold stops by to talk about Milwaukee's surprising run to the top of the standings, Misiorowski's rapid rise, and what it's really like to spend time around manager Pat Murphy.

Plus, the guys close things out with another edition of Strange But True, featuring a magic number of 13.

Rundown:

3:13 NL Cy Young Race Heating Up

11:43 Matt Arnold Visits Starkville

13:33 'Trader Matt'

15:08 Adapting to Change

20:57 Playing for Milwaukee

22:21 ‘The Miz’

27:38 Don't Forget About Kyle Harrison

29:39 Playing in the NL Central

30:53 Being the Brewers President & GM

32:25 Brewers Manager Pat Murphy

37:49 Trade Deadline Plans

39:24 Playing in the Postseason

40:43 Matt Arnold's Journey

44:30 Strange But True: Yankees’ 13-Run Inning

Follow Jayson on Bluesky: @jaysonst.bsky.social

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E-mail: starkville@theathletic.com

Starkville Hotline: (347) 313-8371

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Hosts: Jayson Stark & Doug Glanville

With: Matt Arnold

Producer: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 Aaron Judge Out At Least 4-6 Weeks

10:44 Brayan Bello Optioned to Triple-A

17:59 Corey Seager is Back!

21:43 Noelvi Marte Recalled

24:42 Ezequiel Tovar: DVR Admits 2026 Defeat

31:05 Edwin Arroyo Getting a Look at Second Base

34:00 Royce Lewis is Crushing Triple-A Pitching

37:53 Intriguing Corner Options: Curtis Mead and Spencer Horwitz

42:24 Lars Nootbaar is Back

47:12 Jorge Mateo’s Heater

49:10 Karson Milbrandt: Worth a Stash for the Marlins?

54:15 Closer Corner: Brewers, Royals & A Few of the Usual Suspects

Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.social

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 Commissioner Manfred Calls Luxury-Tax System a Failure

3:42 A Shocker: Franchise Valuations Are Key for Owners

10:29 ‘Fairness’ Is the Message: Is That *Really* The Goal?

12:36 Aaron Judge’s Rib Injury

18:31 George Kirby’s K’s: Where Did They Go, Can We Find Them?

31:19 K-BB% Risers & Fallers: Biggest Movers Between April and May

52:15 The Ball Beat: How Do Teams Model Differences?

1:00:33 Offense Up in Minor Leagues

Evan Drellich: 'Commissioner Rob Manfred, who once touted MLB’s parity, says luxury-tax system has failed'

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7331800

Eno Sarris & Britt Ghiroli: 'Some MLB organizations are more injury-prone than others. Is that bad luck or a system issue?'

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7330754

J.J. Cooper: 'Home Runs Are Exploding Across The Minor Leagues—And No One Knows Why'

https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories/home-runs-are-exploding-across-the-minor-leagues-and-no-one-knows-why/

Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.social

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Trevor May

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 in the AL Central. Later, the guys examine the best and worst users of ABS and discuss how teams are adapting to baseball’s challenge system.

Rundown:

0:36 Four vs. The Field: Can You Pick the World Series Winner with Four Teams?

10:25 Banking on Buyers: Trade Deadline Opportunities to Make Strides

14:59 Projected fWAR: A Better Option Than Choosing World Series Probables?

19:04 Chasing Cleveland: Will the Tigers Turn the Tables on the Guardians?

25:38 What’s the Number? Playoff Odds Necessary for Tigers to Buy at Deadline

34:08 ABS Challenges: Who Is Doing Well, Who Is Struggling So Far?

44:42 Strategic Approaches: Is Marlins’ Catcher-Led Volume Approach Ideal?

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Jed Lowrie

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 top his prospect list in 2027.

Rundown:

1:13 Franklin Arias: Getting To Power Regularly at Double-A

5:18 Projecting Future Power: What Does Keith Look For?

8:51 Ethan Salas: Back on Track in the Padres’ System

10:48 Felnin Celesten: Another Physical Projection Question

15:45 A Future No. 1? Josuar Gonzalez Dominating ACL

19:25 Shorter Outings in Pitching Development

22:43 Concerns About Limitations in Spinning the Ball?

24:48 Seattle Boasts Keith’s Top Two Pitching Prospects

30:17 Do Current Struggles Impact Future Assessments?

38:44 Edwin Arroyo Gets the Call

40:45 Ralphy Velazquez: Real Power Coming Through Cleveland System

46:09 Which Teams Skew Heavily Toward Hitters or Pitchers?

50:18 Players & Teams to Watch: It’s Super Regional Time in CWS

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Keith Law

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 Bichette and Austin Riley, and examine whether either star can turn things around before the year is over.

Rundown:

0:40 Eno’s Trip to Firestone Walker Invitational

4:31 The Miz & Cristopher Sánchez Go Off in May

6:37 Jake Bauers’ Approach Against Imai’s Slider

11:00 Imai Pitched Well Again

12:30 Yankees Send 18 to Plate During 13-Run Third Inning

18:21 Elly De La Cruz to the IL

20:11 Garrett Crochet Setback

27:00 Rafael Devers Turns It Around in May

32:25 Carson Benge is Clicking

37:02 Context is Key: Down Months Are Normal

40:30 The Long Game: Does Combo Bad Finish, Slow Start Worry Us?

46:29 Ildemaro Vargas, Jose Fernandez & Liam Hicks Cool Off

49:30 Bo Bichette’s Struggles

53:08 Austin Riley’s Quiet Start

57:38 One-Year wRC+ Leaderboard: The Most Surprising Bat in the Top-Five?

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 games, and the baseball cliché he can’t stand.

Rundown:

1:26 Joey Votto’s Visit to Starkville

4:40 The Miz Brings the Heat

8:13 Jason Benetti Joins the Show

9:19 Benetti’s Chaotic Travel Schedule

15:25 NBC’s Sunday Night Baseball Coverage

31:39 The ABS Challenge System

36:19 The Up-and-Down Detroit Tigers

38:31 Tigers Manager A.J. Hinch

41:40 Favorite (and Least Favorite) Cliché

44:46 Strange But True with Jason Benetti

Follow Jayson on Bluesky: @jaysonst.bsky.social

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E-mail: starkville@theathletic.com

Starkville Hotline: (347) 313-8371

Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels

Hosts: Jayson Stark & Doug Glanville

With: Jason Benetti

Producer: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 discuss the latest Ottoneu leaderboard — and explain why he refused to eat the hot dog fries.

Rundown:

0:44 And It Begins: MLBPA & Owners Present First Offers

10:42 Inevitable Lockout: Does That Mean Lost Games?

16:30 Sell-High Starting Pitchers: We’re All Looking at the Same Numbers!

26:45 Dustin May’s Turnaround: Buying In with Increased Cutter Usage?

28:10 Jared Jones is Back! Returning Friday Night vs. Minnesota

33:08 Hitters to Consider: Another Thin Week for Bats?

42:36 Niv Shah Joins the Show

42:52 Hot Dog Fries: Why Did Niv Pass?

44:45 What in the World Is This?

49:25 Taste of the Majors: The New York Mets Dog is a Hit!

51:08 Ottoneu Points Leaderboard: Learning From This Year’s Pleasant Surprises

1:01:38 Timing is Everything: Keeper League Windows are Open!

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Niv Shah

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 the heck is going on with Paul Skenes? 

Rundown:

1:15 Checking In on Nolan McLean

11:52 Pitches That Move *Too Much*?!

19:32 Andrew Painter’s Progress

26:40 Corbin Burnes’ Fastball Tweaks Might Help

32:23 Bubba Chandler’s Arrival

38:45 JR Ritchie’s Outlook After Return to Minors

46:58 Quick Pitches: Andrew Alvarez, Trevor McDonald & Coleman Crow

53:43 Paul Skenes’ Changes: Is Everything OK?

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Trevor May

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 to see which big-name hitters have fallen short of expectations at the plate.

Rundown:

0:31 The Streak is Over! Nick Kurtz On-Base Streak Ends at 48 Games

3:02 No, We Don’t Get It: Bryce Harper’s Toothpaste Usage is Odd

4:39 Trea Turner’s Slow Start: Better Days on Tap as He Adjusts?

21:12 Jarren Duran’s Changes: Is He Too Aggressive with Pull-Happy Approach?

37:31 Steven Kwan's Struggles: Are We Sure He’s Healthy?

46:08 Appreciating Silly: A Few Great (Random) Moments in 2026

58:15 Plus-Minus Draft Review: A Few Underperforming Stars!

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Jed Lowrie

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 return and the continued struggles of the Tigers, who have dropped 16 of their last 19 games.

Rundown:

0:36 Tatsuya Imai, Steven Okert & Alimbert Santa Combined No-Hitter

9:34 Are the Rangers OK?

10:30 Luis Castillo & Bryce Miller: An Effective Tandem Start Monday

19:03 Gage Jump Promoted: Expectations in Difficult Home Park?

26:20 Another Halos Lag: Rookie Position Player fWAR Since 2022

35:37 Gerrit Cole Returns: How Did the Pitch Mix Look?

43:35 Loser Leaves Town: Orioles vs. Tigers Weekend Series

Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.social

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Britt Ghiroli

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 just completed a gorilla-for-gorilla swap — Frankie for Little Joe, straight up — and Jayson and Doug break it down before building their own MLB all-zoo team.

Rundown:

3:00 A Most Unusual Trade Involving Gorillas

6:45 Starkville’s All-Zoo Team

17:18 Joey Votto Joins the Show

20:00 Living the Retired Life

28:17 Greatness of Shohei Ohtani

38:48 Analyzing the Game

41:13 Reaction to ABS

48:07 If You Were Commissioner…

53:23 Living the Retired Life

1:00:06 Coming Back to the Game

1:04:45 Strange But True: Byron Buxton and the Minnesota Twins

Follow Jayson on Bluesky: @jaysonst.bsky.social

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E-mail: starkville@theathletic.com

Starkville Hotline: (347) 313-8371

Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels

Hosts: Jayson Stark & Doug Glanville

With: Joey Votto

Producer: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 Royals bats: Vinnie Pasquantino and Salvador Perez.

Rundown:

0:35 Allergy Season is Trade Season! Time to Wheel and Deal

6:40 Strength of Schedule: Which Hitters Have Hit the Best Stuff?

10:08 Opportunity to Buy? Which Hitters Have *Seen* The Best Stuff?

14:20 Salvador Perez’s Struggles: A Familiar Start After Early 2025 Slump?

22:36 Colt Emerson Outlook: Bidding Big Where Available?

27:37 A Hitter Toss-Up: Luis García Jr. vs. Nolan Gorman

32:12 Catcher Injuries: A Few Replacements to Consider

36:40 Vinnie Pasquantino’s Poor Start: What’s Happening Here?

41:46 Good Projections vs. Bad Results: When Do You Pass on Projections?

47:55 Pitchers of Interest: Troy Melton & Jared Jones, A Few Streamers

Some big name hitters are struggling and the pitchers they’ve faced may explain why:

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7298365

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 like balancing fatherhood with life in the big leagues.

Rundown:

0:30 Little League Home Runs: Are They Way Up This Season?

7:36 ABS Zone Impact: Which Pitchers Are Getting Hurt Most?

15:42 More Walks From Lefties?

19:46 Will Depth of Arsenal Guide Rebounds?

28:15 Who Succeeds at the Top of the Zone?

30:28 Underrated Relievers

51:30 Paternity List & Baseball Dads: How Does It Work?

Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.social

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Trevor May

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Baseball is hard — just ask Nationals top prospect Dylan Crews and Twins slugger Royce Lewis, two players trending in very different directions. Eno, Jed, and DVR discuss Crews’ promotion to the Nationals and Lewis’ surprising demotion to Triple-A. Then, the guys dive into the diminishing value of “barrels” and whether baseball’s obsession with advanced stats has gone too far in 2026.

Rundown:

0:42 Dylan Crews Back with Nats: Will Adjustment Click?

10:41 Royce Lewis to Triple-A: Can He Reset at Triple-A?

21:39 How Barrels Have Lost Value

25:02 Heliot Ramos: A ‘Solved’ Player?

32:42 Bat Speed is Next: Is Goodhart’s Law Ready to Strike Again?

36:26 Miguel Vargas: Swing Decision Foundation, Power Added?

43:02 Cam Smith: Growing Pains a Cost of Rushing Player Development?

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Jed Lowrie

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Padres and Guardians are surging, while the Orioles are still searching for answers. Eno, Britt, and DVR break down how San Diego has managed to stay atop the standings despite underperformance from a few key stars. Then, the crew takes a closer look at Baltimore’s continued struggles, examining why the Orioles haven’t been able to build on their 100-win season just a few years ago — and whether the bigger issues stem from pitching development or a lack of continuity on the coaching staff. Later, DVR sits down with The Athletic’s Zack Meisel to discuss Cleveland’s early success and whether the Guardians’ young core can keep them atop the AL Central.

Rundown:

3:30 First Place Padres!

10:57 Starting Pitching Questions: How Will They Find Enough?

12:50 Can Walker Buehler or Griffin Canning Put it Together?

14:42 A Slow Start in Baltimore: Is This a Bottom-Five Team?

22:20 Can Shane Baz, Trevor Rogers & Chris Bassitt Turn It Around?

30:10 Turnover on the Staff: Is the Lack of Continuity an Issue?

34:05 Zack Meisel Joins the Show

35:11 Travis Bazzana: Impressing From the Jump

36:44 Brayan Rocchio & Angel Martínez Impressing

39:55 Guardians Tied for Second in Steals This Season

42:54 Ralphy Velazquez to Columbus: Is an August Promotion on Tap?

46:35 Parker Messick is Rolling: What Do the Next 16 Starts Hold?

50:15 Potential Weakness: Is the Rotation Depth Lacking?

51:44 Bullpen Remains a Strength

Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.social

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Britt Ghiroli and Zack Meisel

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Another top prospect has arrived in Seattle, as 20-year-old Mariners shortstop Colt Emerson made his MLB debut Sunday. Eno and DVR also discuss how Zack Wheeler finally looks like his old self again after beginning the season on the IL, and why Dodgers starter Roki Sasaki may finally be settling in as a reliable starter in LA. Later, the guys open the mailbag to discuss Shohei Ohtani, stabilizing whiff rates, and the long-term outlook for Marlins second baseman Xavier Edwards.

Rundown:

0:47 Colt Emerson Promoted

8:13 Zack Wheeler is Rolling

12:11 Walk Rate Improvement: How Much is Sustainable?

17:43 Surgery for Blake Snell: Loose Bodies in Elbow; Timetable TBD

21:37 Roki’s Turnaround: Another Strong Start vs. Angels

25:09 Justin Wrobleski Excelling in LA

26:46 Grayson Rodriguez is Back: A Big Boost for Halos’ Rotation?

28:33 Clay Holmes Out Several Weeks: Leg Fractured by Comebacker

35:40 Jose Altuve is Hurt: Grade 2 Oblique Strain, Timetable TBD

40:47 Weekly Decision: Using Shohei Ohtani as Pitcher Instead of UT?

44:40 Whiff Rates: When Do They Stabilize?

53:18 The Long Game: Xavier Edwards’ Future Outlook

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of baseball's most beloved managers is gone. Hall of Famer Bobby Cox passed away this week, and Jayson Stark and Doug Glanville celebrate his life with a guest who knew him well — Mark DeRosa, who played for Cox in Atlanta and shares what made him such a special manager. DeRosa also reveals a moment that stuck with him: Cox going out of his way to say he was glad to see him thriving, even after DeRosa had long since moved on to other teams. Then, Pirates center fielder Oneil Cruz provides the material for one of the most jaw-dropping Strange But True segments in recent memory.

Rundown:

2:00 ABS Through the First Quarter of the Season

10:12 Mark DeRosa Joins the Show

11:45 Remembering Bobby Cox

23:30 Al Leiter Pops In

29:07 Remembering Bobby Cox (cont’d)

33:00 Managing Team USA in WBC

39:22 Remembering Bobby Cox (cont’d)

42:49 Strange But True

Jayson’s Article: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7281002/2026

Follow Jayson on Bluesky: @jaysonst.bsky.social

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E-mail: starkville@theathletic.com

Starkville Hotline: (347) 313-8371

Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels

Hosts: Jayson Stark & Doug Glanville

With: Mark DeRosa (and Al Leiter)

Producer: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A fresh batch of starting pitcher rankings has arrived, and there’s plenty to debate. Who made the “Hype 7”? Is Gavin Williams making the leap to ace status? And where does José Soriano land in the mix? Eno and DVR break it all down before turning their attention to the waiver wire, where two intriguing rookies — A.J. Ewing and Henry Bolte — are making their cases as weekend pickups. Plus, no Fantasy Friday would be complete without another edition of “Closer Corner.”

Rundown:

2:00 Eno's Updated SP Rankings: The 'Hype 7' is on the Move!

6:25 Future Drafts: Is There Usually a Group Like This to Target?

12:55 Emmet Sheehan's Velo: Wide Fluctuations Start-to-Start

17:00 Another Top-20 SP in Pittsburgh? Braxton Ashcraft Joins the Fray

20:56 Gavin Williams' Adjustments: Is He Becoming an Ace?

30:29 Using Fresh Rankings: Finding Fits on the Trade Front

34:18 José Soriano: Top-25 Guy Now, Defensive Limitations?

38:58 A.J. Ewing & Henry Bolte: Most Intriguing Waiver-Wire Hitters This Weekend?

44:12 JJ Bleday's Breakout: A True Post-Hype Sleeper is Delivering!

50:05 Vaughn Grissom's Opportunity: Good Enough to Stick in Anaheim?

54:36 Pitching Considerations: Bryce Miller is Back, G-Rod Nearing Return

55:54 A Tough Toss-Up: Ben Brown vs. Griffin Jax

1:01:44 Closer Corner: Still Waiting on Ryan Helsley

Eno's Starting Pitcher Rankings: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7277683/

Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.social

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e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever compared baseball to microtones? Neither had we — until today. The guys dive into the music of Angine de Poitrine to explore just how many pitch types a pitcher could realistically master. Then, Eno, Trevor, and DVR head behind the plate to break down the surprising development of Pirates catcher Henry Davis’ command model.

Rundown:

1:47 Bryce Miller is Back

7:38 Cal Raleigh Placed on the IL

8:16 Max Fried Exits with Elbow Soreness

11:05 Robby Snelling to the IL

13:12 Francisco Alvarez Likely Out Eight Weeks (Knee Surgery)

15:05 Getting the Return Right: Coming Back from the IL

20:17 Pitching & Microtones?

27:00 Covering Everything: Having Pitches for All Situations

35:36 Two Splitters? Roki Sasaki’s Attempt to Find More Options

40:38 Nothing in the Middle? Empty Space for Cutters & Gyro Sliders

44:44 Thinking About Development: Creative Solutions to Pitching Problems?

52:00 Henry Davis’ Command Model

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Trevor May

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Would you trade, hold, or extend Nick Kurtz right now? CJ Abrams? Ben Rice? The answers might surprise you.

Eno, Jed, and DVR break down all three in their favorite new game, "Trade, Hold, or Extend," then shift to two of baseball's hottest prospects: A.J. Ewing, who made a splash in his MLB debut for the Mets on Tuesday, and Henry Bolte, the Athletics outfielder just called up from Triple-A.

Rundown:

2:02 A.J. Ewing Debuts for the Mets

5:45 Henry Bolte Gets the Call

9:47 Skipping Rehab Assignments: Christian Yelich Activated From IL

17:29 CJ Abrams' Future in D.C.

29:49 Is There a Path to an Extension for Ben Rice?

37:06 William Contreras' Long-Term Outlook

45:42 A Nick Kurtz Extension?

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Jed Lowrie

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno, Britt, and DVR hit the quarter mark of the season with a look at the Blue Jays’ lack of power and speed, questions surrounding the rotation, and concerns about Louis Varland’s heavy workload in the closer role. Later, DVR puts Eno and Britt to the test with his latest trivia challenge before the crew dives into the Pirates, Cardinals, and White Sox.

Rundown:

2:00 DVR's Tattoo Promise

2:50 The Jays' Struggling Offense

10:48 Jays Continue to Steal Few Bases

16:08 Trivia Time!

18:30 Pitching in Toronto

23:02 Heavy Workload for Louis Varland

26:39 The Pirates Are on Course

32:32 Likely Mid-Summer Additions in Pittsburgh

37:35 Checking In on the Cards

43:02 How Far Away Are the Cards’ Impact Arms?

50:06 What Happened to Matt Svanson?

51:38 The White Sox's Rebuild Looks OK!

59:45 Davis Martin is Rolling

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Britt Ghiroli

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR discuss the recent returns of pitchers Blake Snell and Carlos Rodón, breaking down how the two hard-throwing lefties looked on the mound this weekend. They also preview Mookie Betts’ return to the Dodgers’ lineup Monday and what his presence means for the rest of the offense. Later, the guys analyze the trade that sent Giants catcher Patrick Bailey to the Guardians.

Rundown:

00:35 Weekend at Eno’s

1:45 Blake Snell is Back!

4:29 Mookie Betts Returns Monday

8:30 Carlos Rodón Also Returned

10:33 More Mother’s Day Magic in Milwaukee

11:57 Bat Speed Buckets

18:30 Do Hitters Change More Slowly than Pitchers?

21:15 Ryan Waldschmidt Promoted

33:18 Patrick Bailey Sent to Cleveland

42:25 Bo Naylor to Triple-A

50:04 Tough Starts: Bryce Miller, Tatsuya Imai & Trevor McDonald

56:57 Where the Money Went: Zack Gelof 2.0

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jayson Stark and Doug Glanville explain why Mason Miller may be the most unhittable pitcher in MLB history before discussing the toughest pitcher Doug ever faced. Later, they’re joined by Terry Francona — Doug’s former manager, Jayson’s old neighbor, and current Reds skipper — to talk about his return to the dugout, memories of managing Doug in Philadelphia, and the joy of watching Elly De La Cruz lead the Reds.

Rundown:

1:35 Is Strands Inspired by Starkville?

3:40 Is Mason Miller Baseball’s Most Unhittable Pitcher?

8:01 Doug’s Most Unhittable Pitcher

11:10 Reds Manager Terry Francona Joins the Show

12:40 Being a Manager in 2026

19:21 Adjusting to ABS

25:00 Managing Elly De La Cruz

27:07 Playing 162

28:10 The Good Ole Days

31:38 Most Memorable Regular Season Game

34:00 Health Update

35:22 Benches Clearing Brawls

36:39 Francona’s Gum Chewing Habit 

38:55 Francona’s Most Unhittable Pitcher

41:18 Strange But True

52:00 Call Us at (347) 313-8371 

Is Padres closer Mason Miller the most unhittable pitcher who ever lived?: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7244775/

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Hosts: Jayson Stark & Doug Glanville

With: Terry Francona

Producer: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR preview top prospect Robby Snelling’s highly anticipated big league debut and discuss expectations for the rookie left-hander. Later, they open the mailbag to answer questions about the closer market, Liam Hicks, and Will Warren. Plus, Ottoneu founder and Senior Hot Dog Correspondent Niv Shah joins the show to break down Yankees prospect Spencer Jones, along with delivering his latest hot dog review — this time, the Minnesota Dog.

Rundown:

1:16 Marlins Promote Robby Snelling

4:23 Pitchers Nearing Returns: Jared Jones, Bryce Miller & Carlos Rodón

10:25 Deeper League Considerations: Sean Burke & JT Ginn

14:14 Holding Steady: Where Will Noah Schultz Rank?

16:57 Good News on Skubal?

20:07 Injury Updates: Crochet, Ragans, Glasnow Ryan, Abel, Woodruff

24:45 Spencer Jones Gets the Call!

29:10 Keeper Consideration — Anthony Eyanson

34:11 JJ Bleday Tearing It Up with Reds

39:10 Taste of the Majors: The Minnesota Dog!

45:54 Closer Corner: Pittsburgh, Cincinnati & Baltimore

52:53 Pleasant Surprises: What to Make of Liam Hicks?

57:06 Will Warren is Cruising: Is the Strikeout Rate Bound to Fall? 

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Niv Shah

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno, Trevor, and DVR unveil Trevor’s new deception model, digging into how it works, what it’s designed to measure, and the challenges of quantifying deception. They also break down the current leaders in deception among starters and relievers, and reveal where listeners can access the model (Hint: coming soon to Discord!). Later, they bring back How I’d Pitch This Guy with a look at Junior Caminero before shifting to the Rays’ rotation, focusing on Shane McClanahan and Griffin Jax.

Rundown:

1:15 Quantifying Deception: From 2016 to 2026

8:39 Current Kings of Deception: Top-Five Starting Pitchers for 2026

9:30 Current Kings of Deception: Top-Five Relief Pitchers for 2026

15:10 Looking to the Future: More Precision From Impact of Hitter's Vision?

23:15 Deception Model Coming Soon to Discord!

23:51 The Rays' 24-12 Start: What's Working Thus Far?

26:04 Is the League Pitching the Rays Wrong?

36:44 How I'd Pitch This Guy: Junior Caminero

42:33 Starkville Sneak Peek

44:38 Knocking the Rust Off: Shane McClanahan

49:46 Getting Out of Rehab Mode

54:37 Expectations for Griffin Jax as a Starter

Eno's FanGraphs Blog Post: https://blogs.fangraphs.com/an-attempt-to-quantify-pitcher-deception/

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Trevor May

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno, Jed, and DVR dig into the early-season struggles of Fernando Tatis Jr., examining what’s gone wrong at the plate and how he can get back on track. They also take a look at the scorching start from Matt Olson and debate whether his trajectory points toward Cooperstown. Later, they break down Framber Valdez drilling Trevor Story, which led to Valdez’s ejection on Tuesday night.

Rundown:

2:40 Fernando Tatis Jr.’s Hitting Woes

13:56 Tatis Jr.’s Projection for Rest of Season

23:58 Expectations for Jackson Merrill

30:25 Matt Olson’s Hot Start

40:05 Ozzie Albies’ Career Year?

44:18 What’s Wrong with Austin Riley?

49:20 Framber Valdez Ejected

57:09 Carlos Correa Out for Season

59:14 Other News & Notes

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Jed Lowrie

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno, Britt, and DVR break down a Tarik Skubal-less Detroit Tigers and ask whether the team can stay afloat until the reigning AL Cy Young winner gets back. Then, the trio turns to the LA Angels — what's gone wrong for the organization, and is trading Mike Trout actually on the table? Later, Eno and DVR sit down with The Athletic's Phillies writer Matt Gelb to talk through a potential homecoming for the Philly native Trout.

Rundown:

3:55 Tarik Skubal to Have Elbow Surgery

7:55 Can the Tigers Stay Afloat?

13:54 Is the Bullpen Good Enough?

18:08 More of the Same in Anaheim

22:35 The Core Isn’t Bad!: Can It Improve Enough to Contend Though?

29:40 Is Trading Mike Trout on the Table?

37:06 Matt Gelb Joins the Show

37:24 Mike Trout to the Phillies?

39:47 The Phillies' Need for a Right-Handed Bat

45:00 The Phillies' Bullpen: Where Have the Strikeouts Gone?

46:56 Jesús Luzardo's Inconsistency

49:08 Adjustment for Aaron Nola?

53:12 Is Anything New in the Mattingly Era?

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Britt Ghiroli

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR break down the numerous promotions and demotions around MLB, including Bryce Eldridge and Joe Mack earning their calls to the big leagues, while Marlins catcher Agustín Ramírez and Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe head back to Triple-A. The guys also work through a wave of injuries around the league and discuss the passing of legendary broadcaster John Sterling.

Rundown:

2:00 Bryce Eldridge Recalled by Giants

5:40 Are You Buying a Giants Rebound?

11:07 Agustín Ramírez Gets Demoted

15:12 Anthony Volpe Staying at Triple-A

24:00 John Sterling Passes Away at 87

25:58 Joe Ryan Sent for MRI

29:24 Ronald Acuña Jr. to the IL

32:33 Spencer Strider Returns at Coors Field on Sunday

35:33 Griffin Canning’s Impressive Showing in Padres Debut

39:16 Ranger Suárez is Day-to-Day

43:48 Ryan Pepiot Out for Season (Hip Surgery)

51:06 Where the Money Went

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jayson Stark and Doug Glanville are back in Starkville to dig into the stunning April firings of Alex Cora and Rob Thomson, breaking down how it unraveled and what it reveals about the ever-shrinking margin for managers. Then, MLB broadcaster Ron Darling joins the show to share his thoughts on the moves, the mounting pressure on today’s skippers, the Mets’ ongoing struggles, and his memories of the iconic 1986 Mets.

Rundown:

0:00 Starkville Is Back!

3:25 April Firings: Alex Cora and Rob Thomson

8:24 Ron Darling Joins the Show

9:18 Darling on Thomson

11:53 Managers in Peril

15:49 Where will Cora Go Next?

17:40 In-season Managerial Changes

18:57 How the Manager Role Has Changed

25:37 What’s Wrong with the Mets?

33:09 40th Anniversary of the ‘86 Mets

39:02 Looking Back at Darling’s Book, ‘The Complete Game’

43:04 Favorite Pitchers

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Hosts: Jayson Stark & Doug Glanville

With: Ron Darling

Producer: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR return for another Fantasy Friday—starting with some food takes, including Eno’s “try everything once” mindset and DVR revealing he’s never had oysters. From there, they shift to baseball, breaking down potential fantasy trade targets among starting pitchers and identifying arms to buy low or sell high. The guys close out the show by discussing a new Athletics closer: Jack Perkins.

Rundown:

1:29 Eno's Dining Philosophy

3:28 The Truth Is: Midwest Food Creations Are Usually Good

7:45 Injury Updates: Luis Robert Jr., Trevor Rogers, Brandon Woodruff & Garrett Crochet

22:10 A Pitching Debut Friday: The Red Sox Turn to Jake Bennett

28:00 Trade Targets: Starting Pitchers We're Interested In

40:56 The 'Obvious' Sell Highs: More Easily Attainable Arms

50:52 Travis Bazzana Projections

1:04:11 Closer Carousel: Buying Jack Perkins, Considering Jacob Latz?

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR welcome former major leaguer Adam Ottavino to the show to discuss closers and why more relievers are racking up saves this season than in years past. The guys also dive into bullpen management and the ever-perplexing question of why closers tend to struggle in non-save situations. Later, Eno and DVR share their desert island favorite starting pitchers and reveal the biggest OOPSY droppers – with the correct chart this time.

Rundown:

1:04 Where Have All the Closers Gone?

5:12 How Should Baseball Value & Reward Relievers?

8:48 New Bullpen Management

11:00 Is Better Balance Possible?

14:32 Why Do Closers Struggle in Non-Save Situations?

19:40 The Desert Island: Favorite Pitcher

26:33 Will Tigers Stick with Kenley Jansen?

29:40 Is the New Zone Causing K% and BB% Fluctuations?

32:48 Seattle’s Starters’ Early Strikeout Rate Slide?

39:08 The Biggest OOPSY Fallers 

44:52 A Case for Lawrence Butler Despite Projections Drop

Eno’s Article: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7241759

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

With: Adam Ottavino

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eno and DVR open up the mailbag to dig into the Rockies’ surprising success on the mound and what the organization can do to make Colorado a destination for free agent pitchers. Plus, the guys break down Location+, OOPSY fallers, and whether Yankees second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. will get back on track.

Rundown:

1:12 Justin Steele has a Setback

8:52 The Most Injured Teams in Baseball

10:45 Pete Fairbanks to the IL

14:21 Trey Yesavage is Back!

19:27 Rockies Surprising Success

27:50 Making Pitchers Better Opens Up More FA Options

34:40 Revisiting Location+

42:41 What is Launch Angle Sweet Spot Percentage?

49:25 Jazz Chisholm Jr.: Time to Worry?

51:37 OOPSY Fallers

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.