WAKE and RAKE Podcast: Recent Episodes
Danny Vietti
This is what happens when a World Series champion teams up with a dork. Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti join forces to put a unique spin on a baseball podcast ⚾
Will Middlebrooks is BACK! He and Danny Vietti make their MLB free agent predictions. Plus, Will details the fun behind being an ESPN broadcaster during the MLB playoffs. Juan Soto stays in New York. Willy Adames to Los Angeles? Seattle lands an All-Star hitter!
(1:38) Radio broadcasting on ESPN ... (8:48) Fasciitis injuries ... (11:37) Angels have already added 5 players ... (17:58) Juan Soto stays in New York, but which one? ... (22:24) Could the Rays be the mystery team? ... (25:48) Detroit Tigers a sleeping giant? ... (30:35) Giants find their next shortstop ... (34:08) Gleyber Torres to Seattle ... (41:21) Anthony Santander stays in AL East ... (47:20) Pete Alonso vs. Christian Walker ... (50:50) Tyler O'Neill better numbers than Alex Bregman
Danny Vietti lists all of the available 2024-25 free agents available this offseason by position. Plus, the Marlins returns for trades might be all-time bad. And the formerly known Oakland A's have officially switched names. Finally, a strange factoid about Moonlight Graham in the movie Field of Dreams.
(2:30) Looking back at Marlins trades of Giancarlo Stanton, JT Realmuto, Christian Yelich ... (11:05) Willson Contreras is switching positions ... (12:01) The Oakland A's have a new name ... (16:36) Ohtani was playing on torn labrum, Freeman had broken rib ... (21:52) Why Freddie Freeman is the best ... (24:32) Angels add two former All-Stars ... (27:50) Free agents by position ... (43:35) Did you know this about the movie Field of Dreams?
Danny Vietti details the 2024 World Series matchup between the Yankees and Dodgers, including betting odds and X-factors. Plus, he explains why there is one particular player he would love to see get a World Series ring. Not to be overlooked, we all believe in Stephen Vogt.
(1:50) Big market teams can be a positive thing ... (6:15) Best broadcast calls from LCS ... (7:55) Why Stephen Vogt is the best ... (12:19) This World Series is not an underdog story ... (13:14) Dodgers have a very likable roster ... (21:08) World Series MVP favorites ... (23:00) X-factors for series ... (30:01) World Series predictions
Danny Vietti details why being an MLB general manager might be the most difficult job in all of sports. Recaps of the Dodgers-Padres NLDS and previews for the upcoming LCS series.
(4:00) Dodgers-Padres the best product in baseball ... (12:06) Appreciation for the Detroit Tigers ... (21:18) Rooting for Guardians front office is hypocritical ... (18:30) MLB GM is the most difficult job in sports
One move for all 30 MLB teams. One move each team should make at the upcoming 2024 MLB Trade Deadline. Dodgers make yet another blockbuster trade. Astros get Evan Gattis 2.0. Randy Arozarena to Minnesota??? Let's get weird!
(3:30) D-Backs acquire Jack Flaherty ... (8:05) Orioles make a deal with Oakland ... (13:15) Cubs move on from Cody Bellinger ... (18:50) AL's best record acquires pair of All-Star arms ... (22:45) Why Tigers trading Tarik Skubal would be HUGE mistake ... (26:01) Astros acquire Evan Gattis 2.0 ... (29:15) Dodgers blockbuster trade for Crochet, Robert ... (34:02) Randy Arozarena to the Twins ... (38:35) A's draft picks already the highest paid on club ... (45:02) Re-visiting Juan Soto trade to Padres ... (47:25) Giants get face of franchise ... (48:35) Mariners front office has failed ... (56:44) Blue Jays must hold onto Vladdy
Is PNC Park at the top? How about Oracle Park? Fenway? Danny Vietti ranks every MLB stadium from 1-30 based on current fan environments and conditions here in 2024. Plus, why relief pitcher Austin Adams might just be the most dangerous pitcher of this generation.
(5:15) Austin Adams on track for all-time hit by pitch record ... (10:10) Ultimate MLB ballpark roadtrip ... (17:00) Worst ballpark in baseball ... (21:54) No. 20-25 stadiums ... (24:08) Is Busch Stadium overrated? ... (27:31) Yankee Stadium not even top-15? ... (31:29) Nos. 10-15 ... (35:41) Top-10 MLB Stadiums ... (39:36) Where does Wrigley and Fenway rank? ... (42:59) Should PNC Park be No. 1? ... (44:40) Best MLB stadium is in California
Should Elly De La Cruz no longer be a switch hitter? The splits are mind-boggling. Danny Vietti details 10 switch hitters who have glaring differences in their platoon split statistics, including All-Star players like Ozzie Albies and Ian Happ. Plus, remember when Shane Victorino stopped switch hitting midseason and still won a World Series?
(2:01) Shane Victorino stopped switch hitting midseason ... (6:46) Elly De La Cruz is a TERRIBLE right-handed hitter ... (11:01) Why does Ozzie Albies ever bat lefty? ... (18:03) All-Star Cubs outfielder with insane splits ... (23:17) If Patrick Bailey ever figures this part out ... (27:59) Two Cardinals players have splits issues ... (34:25) Elly De La Cuz's GLARING NUMBERS
Rob Manfred said he intends to add two expansions teams in the next decade. But, where? Danny Vietti details why MLB's next expansion should team should be awarded to Latin America, particularly one in the Caribbean. Baseball is no longer king in the United States and it's time to look elsewhere.
(1:55) Rumored expansion team cities ... (5:22) MLB vs. NFL ... (10:39) Half of baseball superstars are not from United States ... (14:01) Number of MLB players by country ... (15:04) "The best option is Puerto Rico" ... (19:00) Travel concerns ... (22:15) Puerto Rico is a US territory ... (26:05) Latin American fan environments are ELITE ... (29:16) Concerns about Latin America expansion teams?
Which team is most likely to follow in the footsteps of the Baltimore Orioles as the next great young team? Is it the Nationals? The Reds? Tigers? Danny Vietti ranks the 10 teams that are next in line to become winning teams. Plus, this Luis Arraez-Tony Gwynn comparison will FREAK YOU OUT!
(3:39) Luis Arraez has same exact stats as Tony Gwynn ... (7:04) Former Dick's Sporting Goods employee called up to majors ... (9:04) Danny's history of tabbing teams ... (13:14) Least likely franchise to resurrect franchise ... (19:19) Colorado Rockies farm system looks solid ... (23:14) Oakland's predictable playoff cycle ... (27:19) Detroit Tigers could be on the cusp ... (31:35) Pirates ready to compete now ... (36:33) Nationals are the next Orioles? ... (41:40) Looking back at Juan Soto trade ... (45:27) This NL Central team has most promising future
Did the Astros just simply give the Orioles the blueprint for rebuilding a franchise? Danny Vietti details how Mike Elias and the Baltimore front office resurrected a franchise from within that was once a dumpster fire just a short time ago. Plus, the O's have some strange similarities to the Astros dynasty.
(3:10) Cam Booser's remarkable comeback story ... (7:03) Orioles resurrection began with D.L. Hall ... (13:30) Orioles first round draft picks ... (16:31) Saying Baltimore tanked for a decade is false ... (19:54) Orioles following Astros blueprint ... (24:27) Astros also hit on draft picks ... (27:36) Lineup in 2019 vs. now ... (32:14) When Orioles players will hit free agency
Detailing and explaining the new rules being implemented for the 2024 MLB season, including the enforcing of obstruction plays, widening of the runner's lane, and pitch clock reduction. Plus, we make our preseason playoff predictions. Pirates win the NL Central? Seriously?! And finally, a film breakdown of Bobby Witt Jr.'s impressive mid-pitch adjustment.
(1:01) Changes to podcast ... (4:36) Oakland fan boycott on Opening Day ... (11:22) American League playoff predictions ... (13:29) History tell us 1 losing team will make the playoffs this year ... (17:57) National League playoff predictions ... (21:31) MVP predictions ... (24:12) New MLB rules for 2024 ... (27:23) Umpires to start enforcing obstruction rule ... (30:33) Bobby Witt Jr.'s film breakdown
Part II: In preparation for the 2024 MLB season, Danny Vietti details one reason to be optimistic and one reason to be discouraged for each American League team. Could the Mariners take the leap? Will the A's plan to relocate to Las Vegas fall through? Plus, hear why Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s stats from last season just flat do not make any sense.
(1:44) No. 1 picks play each other in Spring Training ... (3:49) AL West glass is half full ... (10:27) Make or break year for Mike Trout ... (18:15) AL Central glass is half full ... (23:08) White Sox are a complete oddity ... (29:17) AL East glass is half full ... (33:54) Why Vladimir Guerrero Jr. will bounce back ... (38:57) What's the direction for the Red Sox?
Spring Training is the only time of year when fans of all 30 teams have hope. Danny Vietti runs through each team in the National League, detailing one reason why the glass is half full and one reason why the glass is half empty for the 2024 season. Perception is reality, right? Plus, major props to Oakland fans and the Pirates front office.
(1:06) Cody Bellinger contract details ... (2:59) Oakland fans host Fan Fest ... (11:13) Glass is half full vs. empty for NL West ... (18:27) Fernando Tatis Jr. has a golden opportunity ... (23:14) Glass is half full vs. empty for NL Central ... (32:21) Pirates have playoff potential ... (37:08) Glass is half full vs. empty for NL East ... (42:34) "This is the most intimidating team in baseball"
After acquiring former Cy Young ace Corbin Burnes and the selling of the team, Will Middlebrooks says the Baltimore Orioles have a chance to build something special -- maybe even a dynasty. Full details of the trade, what it means for the NL Central and AL East divisions, and the impact of Theo Epstein returning to Boston.
(2:02) Reaction to Corbin Burnes trade ... (7:15) Orioles have a chance at a dynasty? ... (9:51) Status update on Orioles ... (14:30) Brewers' return package and impact on NL Central ... (17:32) Theo Epstein returns to Boston ... (23:39) Red Sox are not ready to compete in 2024 ... (29:00) Middlebrooks is FIRED UP about HOF ballot ... (34:44) Deebo Samuel big leagues Danny at Super Bowl photoshoot
Detroit Tigers to win the AL Central? Pittsburgh Pirates in the playoffs? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti shoot straight from the hip with some BOLD PREDICTIONS for the 2024 MLB season. Plus, future betting odds for the season. Rosters are still changing by the day, so we'll see if these these takes age like milk.
(3:38) Tough story about Orioles owner Peter Angelos ... (7:39) Detroit Tigers are BACK! ... (14:17) Angels will be better without Ohtani? ... (18:38) Betting odds for 2024 MVP ... (21:00) Reds to improve or take a step back? ... (24:33) Cy Young Favorites ... (26:24) Fernando Tatis Jr. can lead San Diego to playoffs ... (29:03) Tarik Skubal gets Cy Young votes ... (30:10) Don't be surprised if A's don't move to Vegas
Considering the dominance of Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani and Venezuelan Ronald Acuña Jr., have international athletes now surpassed the Americans as the superior athletes? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti disagree on the subject and discuss. Plus, they provide an update on the latest free agent signings.
(1:45) Lucas Giolito, Chris Sale find new homes ... (13:25) Braves have something up their sleeve ... (16:45) Never go on a cruise with kids ... (23:45) Why Jenny Dell refuses to golf ever again ... (28:29) International baseball players this offseason ... (29:49) Are international countries dominating American sports? ... (39:00) Unsigned free agent list
Move over Messi! Shohei Ohtani is now THE RICHEST athlete in the world, of any sport! Will Middlebrooks contextualize Ohtani's record-breaking 10-year/$700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers. And if you think the Dodgers are done making moves, think again.
(0:46) Immediate reaction to Ohtani news ... (3:50) Deferred money is crucial ... (6:40) Richest sports contracts in the world ... (14:19) Blue Jays chaos on Friday ... (18:13) Ohtani makes more than Oakland A's ... (22:22) Next year's biggest free agent ... (24:25) Giants the biggest losers? ... (26:17) Polarity in baseball
Former Milwaukee Brewers VP of Player Development and current Nevada Wolf Pack head coach Jake McKinley joins the podcast. How does NIL deals work in college baseball? Why is Brewers top prospect Jackson Chourio the "real deal?" Plus, what makes Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns so special?
(4:42) Transitioning into a Div. I baseball head coach ... (6:18) NIL deals in college baseball ... (12:21) NIL college deals for dummies ... (14:41) What makes David Stearns special ... (22:09) Jackson Chourio is the "real deal" ... (26:33) Inside the Mauricio Dubón trade ... (32:11) Jets are a disaster ... (37:45) Favorite Christmas song ... (41:58) "90 is the new 85" for pitchers
Free agency is expected to shift into high gear when the MLB Winter Meetings commence next week. No better time to make our FREE AGENCY and OFFSEASON PREDICTIONS. San Francisco makes a splash? Tyler Glasnow to Southern California? Baltimore adds a Cy Young? Plus, Will Middlebrooks has some inside intel on the Red Sox offseason plans.
(5:24) Are Sonny Gray and Tyler Glasnow No. 1 starters? ... (10:24) Tyler Glasnow headed to Southern California? ... (15:20) Red Sox going after two notable starters? ... (20:01) Where does Shohei Ohtani sign? ... (24:04) Yankees will land either Cody Bellinger or Juan Soto ... (28:34) Blue Jays a dark horse free agency player ... (31:10) What are the Braves planning to do? ... (32:35) Baltimore lands a Cy Young? ... (37:15) Rapid fire free agent predictions ... (41:40) College football chat
We all know that Shohei Ohtani is available, but what about the under-the-radar free agents? What about the complimentary players? Let's talk about the Hunter Renfroe and Joc Pedersons of the world. Danny Vietti details 30 free agents that nobody is talking about.
(2:08) Aaron Nola returns to Philly ... (7:08) Mitch Garver is available ... (11:50) Middle infielder free agent options ... (17:24) Under-the-radar outfielders available ... (26:10) This free agent has hit 20+ HR in 6 straight seasons ... (27:58) Starting pitcher free agent options ... (32:40) Eric Fedde returning to MLB ... (35:03) Sean Manaea, Nick Martinez among bullpen options
Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti look ahead to the 2023-24 MLB offseason, including a breakdown of the top free agents, potential trade candidates, and clubs looking to make moves. What's the latest on Shohei Ohtani? Could the Red Sox flip the script? Plus, reactions and analysis on the World Series Champion Texas Rangers.
(4:15) Rangers World Series reaction ... (9:31) Bruce Bochy is the ultimate drought ender ... (17:14) Rangers have great chance to repeat ... (23:32) Teams that could come out of nowhere in 2024 ... (29:09) Top free agents ... (34:29) Blake Snell is a risky sign ... (38:25) Potential offseason trade candidates ... (41:36) Why Juan Soto to Yankees is recipe for disaster
Let's set the stage. Lineups, rosters, predictions, and complete preview of the 2023 World Series between the Texas Rangers and Arizona Diamondbacks. Plus, Will Middlebrooks shares a very quirky tie between the 2001 Diamondbacks, when they won the World Series, and this year's squad.
(1:35) When Arizona pitchers kill a bird, they win ... (7:25) Nathan Eovaldi has chance to become postseason GOAT ... (13:55) Where Arizona and Dallas rank among baseball markets ... (17:35) Better starting rotation? ... (19:07) D-Backs have bullpen advantage ... (23:04) Rangers offense significantly better? ... (25:19) World Series Predictions
Who would have predicted this? The 84-win Arizona Diamondbacks will take on the Texas Rangers in the 2023 World Series. Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti investigate what went wrong with the Phillies, what went right for the D-Backs, and how the Rangers matchup. Plus, we detail the best storylines to watch out for in the Fall Classic.
(1:54) Brandon Phaadt was the X-Factor ... (6:59) Why D-Backs manager Torey Lovullo is special ... (11:08) D-Backs are a strange franchise ... (15:20) Why D-Backs-Rangers matchup is GREAT for baseball ... (24:32) Rangers did not just "buy" a title ... (31:25) Buy, build, and develop is the formula ... (35:05) Adolis Garcia's story is incredible ... (39:25) Craig Breslow named Red Sox new head man ... (42:34) Bob Melvin leaves San Diego for San Francisco
Should MLB consider changing the playoff format? Do first round byes put top seeds at a disadvantage? Following the Dodgers and Orioles early exits, Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti propose alterations and discuss the latest playoff drama. Plus, drama in Philadelphia?
(3:26) Playoff format changes? ... (9:49) Blaming playoff format is a weak excuse ... (13:30) Data on new playoff format ... (15:46) Clayton Kershaw's inexplainable playoff woes ... (20:57) Evan Longoria back in the LCS ... (23:33) Orlando Arcia-Bryce Harper drama timeline ... (26:36) Need more context with Arcia story ... (30:48) Bryce Harper the ultimate competitor ... (35:33) First glance at Rangers-Astros ALCS
Everything you could possibly need to know about the 2023 MLB Postseason. Pitching matchups, injury statuses, and stats. Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti preview the playoffs and fill out their brackets live on the show. Plus, they discuss the latest in Trevor Bauer's potential return to MLB.
(6:18) Will Middlebrooks reacts to the tragic passing of Tim Wakefield ... (10:25) MLB attendance largest in 30 years ... (12:04) Pitch clock and extra innings rules in postseason? ... (14:17) Update on Trevor Bauer ... (16:59) Blue Jays-Twins preview ... (20:37) Rangers vs. Rays preview ... (24:19) Diamondbacks vs. Brewers preview ... (28:14) Marlins vs. Phillies preview ... (31:41) ALCS predictions ... (38:03) NLCS predictions ... (40:42) "This is my World Series" ... (43:20) World Series predictions
What does each team need to make the playoffs? With one weekend remaining in the regular season, Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti detail potential playoff scenarios. The NL Wild Card and AL West division are still up for grabs. Plus, Ronald Acuña Jr.'s 40/70 season and strange happenings in Seattle.
(1:11) Middlebrooks gives Red Sox-Ohtani ... (5:35) Phillies woman ROASTED Middlebrooks as a rookie ... (9:17) Bryce Harper is living out Mike Trout's dream ... (13:38) Drama surrounding Acuña's 40/70 moment ... (20:15) Farewell to Terry Francona ... (24:47) NL Wild Card scenarios ... (28:02) AL West division up for grabs
Which team has the best starting rotation heading into the 2023 MLB postseason? Danny Vietti and the crew discuss which starting rotation they would most like to have for the playoffs. Plus, could we see Major League Baseball implement a new pitch count restriction or minimum day off rule?
(2:55) Best starting rotation for the playoffs ... (12:24) Padres what-if in extra innings ... (13:43) Braves rotation hit by injury bug ... (19:11) Central division teams have the best rotations ... (20:12) Logan Webb is an absolute DAWG ... (29:07) Pitch restrictions on MLB pitchers? ... (37:10) Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce love story
With Chaim Bloom out in Boston, Will Middlebrooks believes the Red Sox are preparing to make a run at Shohei Ohtani. Plus, the Oakland A's gifted Miguel Cabrera a $90 bottle of wine that is available at the local grocery store for his retirement. And, yeah, we went off the RAILS on this episode.
(1:01) Most expensive bottle of wine ... (8:17) Investigating Oakland's wine gift to Miggy ... (11:01) Will used a Rawlings rep for tee-ball gloves ... (14:57) Bottle of wine still not the worst gift Miggy has received ... (16:51) Did Chaim Bloom deserved to be fired? ... (23:12) Red Sox GM candidates ... (32:11) Red Sox in pursuit of Shohei Ohtani? ... (34:40) Padres following the 2007 Rockies blueprint ... (37:55) Looking ahead to playoffs
The Rays released renderings for their new stadium and the A's are likely moving Las Vegas, which begs the question...which club now owns the WORST STADIUM in MLB? We discuss. We also try out a new podcast format with some new members joining the show. Plus, why did the Phillies congratulate the Braves on winning the division?
(0:45) Meet new members of the podcast ... (3:18) Reactions to Rays new stadium renderings ... (6:42) New worst stadium in MLB? ... (10:40) Which teams have botched new stadiums? ... (14:31) Phillies congratulate Braves on winning division ... (19:36) Could the Padres do the unthinkable? ... (27:28) Farm system rankings ... (29:39) Tom Verducci slams Giants' analytical approach ... (35:27) Yankees or Red Sox more disappointing? ... (38:23) Aaron Boone and Chaim Bloom to San Diego?
Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti are BACK! MLB playoff races are coming down to the wire, we break those all down. Will is fired up about a certain Mariners pitcher for his postgame comments. And is it really possible to have too much late discipline? Plus, some new faces will be joining the podcast.
(2:38) Four teams battling for one NL Wild Card spot ... (8:46) Wait, Mariners pitcher George Kirby said WHAT?!? ... (14:41) Concern level with Rangers ... (17:18) Newfound respect for the Dodgers ... (24:04) Fear of failure in playoffs ... (27:11) Is it possible to have too much plate discipline? ... (36:31) Juan Soto will make more money if he does this
Will Middlebrooks is BACK...and just in time for the 2023 MLB Trade Deadline! Will and Danny make some bold predictions and discuss some of the latest rumors and stirs around the league. Justin Verlander to Baltimore? Goldschmidt on the trading block?
(0:48) Will Middlebrooks returns ... (3:59) Max Scherzer trade to Texas an overpay? ... (8:50) Assessing Baltimore Orioles' pitchers ... (14:30) Seven contenders for NL Wild Card ... (22:31) Red Sox buying and selling? ... (27:51) Angels are going for it all ... (29:57) Bold predictions for deadline
Not only are the Los Angeles Angels holding onto Shohei Ohtani, but now they are BUYERS! And they are already making moves, trading for Lucas Giolito and Reynaldo Lopez. They aren't done either. Danny Vietti discusses some of the under the radar trade candidates who could be moved before the MLB Trade Deadline.
(1:30) Lucas Giolito trade reaction and details ... (5:22) Standings update ... (8:20) Could Charlie Blackmon be a trade candidate? ... (14:42) Ji-Man Choi RAKES off of righties ... (21:40) Lefty specialist with a 30 percent strikeout rate ... (22:40) Could Patrick Corbin get moved? ... (30:42) Reds in similar position as last year's Orioles
Shohei Ohtani to the AL East? Dodgers make a blockbuster trade? Paul Goldschmidt back? We take a crack at playing MLB TRADE MATCHMAKER: matching 20 trade deadline candidates with the absolute perfect destination, based on fit and need. Danny Vietti breaks it all down and is joined by his pops, Paul Vietti.
(0:42) Odds of Ohtani being traded? ... (7:37) Ohtani makes the most sense on this AL East contender ... (12:36) Will AJ Preller and the Padres buy or sell? ... (18:19) Dylan Cease to Southern California? ... (26:17) Cincinnati targeting Giolito? ... (33:41) More people should be discussing Paul Goldschmidt trade rumors ... (38:10) Phillies should look to add southpaw starter ... (45:13) CJ Cron's concerning home-away splits ... (47:45) What should Padres and Mets do?
Mark Appel was labeled the "biggest draft bust in MLB history." After being selected No. 1 overall in the 2013 MLB Draft, Appel left baseball completely. Despite the odds, he made a comeback attempt a few years later and finally made his MLB debut nearly a decade after being drafted. He joins the show to share his unrivaled redemption story and tells us why his story is far from over.
(4:37) Mark Appel provides update after surgery ... (11:55) Power to inspire others ... (16:27) Appel's reason for his comeback ... (23:40) How a church friend prepared Appel for Phillies fan base ... (28:14) What if Appel did not get chosen No. 1 overall ... (34:53) Why Phillies re-signed him after leaving the game ... (46:13) Mark's worst fan interaction story
Leaving Fernando Tatis Jr. off the All-Star roster is a crime against humanity. The numbers do not lie. Danny Vietti lists and details his BIGGEST SNUBS that were left off the 2023 MLB All-Star rosters. Plus, how did a legit Cy Young candidate get left off?
(5:38) Might be the BIGGEST SNUB OF ALL-TIME ... (10:56) They picked the wrong Red Sox player ... (15:05) Reds' rookie over Austin Riley? ... (17:46) NL All-Star pitching staff makes no sense ... (20:28) Cy Young candidate left off roster ... (23:50) Coin flip snubs ... (26:30) Vladdy Jr. is 57th in fWAR ... (27:54) HR Derby Participants
Hours before the reverse boycott in Oakland, news dropped that the Athletics received approval from the state of Nevada legislature to build a stadium in Las Vegas. This is all of the audio from Danny Vietti's conversations with fans at the Oakland Coliseum tailgate. CAUTION: this episode is completely UNCENSORED and includes inappropriate language (NSFW).
(0:45) Thoughts and prayers to Ryan Mallett's family and friends ... (5:01) Interview with "Right Field Will" ... (8:35) Fan shares emotional connection with team and father ... (23:40) "I don't think it's too late" ... (33:37) A's fan GOES OFF on impressive rant ... (49:09) Update on A's relocation
Could you imagine a house with all of George Brett, Bret Saberhagen, and Mark Gubicza? Former 2x All-Star, World Series Champion, and current Angels color commentator Mark Gubicza joins the show. He tells us what it was like playing with Bo Jackson and shares details about the daily dialogue he shares with Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani.
(3:34) Mark Gubicza joins the show ... (7:58) How Gubie and Saberhagen snuck onto the Royals roster ... (12:01) Being teammates with Bo Jackson ... (18:15) Is Mike Trout less marketable than Derek Jeter? ... (23:30) Gubie's trade rumor conversations with Ohtani ... (27:39) Rapid fire with Gubie ... (30:15) Most underrated player on Angels?
The Reds, Diamondbacks, Rangers, and Marlins are all playoff teams. Meanwhile, the Dodgers are in third place and the Cardinals and Red Sox are in last place. It's June. WTF is going on?!? Will
Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti dive into the standings and these surprising clubs.
(4:50) Will Middlebrooks got booted for sitting in somebody's seats ... (9:30) Has a team with a losing record made the playoffs? ... (11:38) Assessing the Twins and the terrible AL Central ... (15:21) Is Sandy Alcantara tipping his pitches? ... (22:33) Luis Arraez is hitting .400 again! ... (29:24) Does hitting .400 guarantee the MVP award? ... (31:12) Self-proclaimed America's Team ... (36:26) Are the D-Backs the best team in the West? ... (40:11) Will the Angels finally end the drought?
After attending the Oakland A's fan reverse boycott on Tuesday night, Danny Vietti shares his thoughts and takeaways. Will Middlebrooks details the young up-and-coming teams to watch out for, including the Baltimore Orioles and Arizona Diamondbacks.
(1:10) Reverse boycott reaction ... (8:00) Time to panic in St. Louis ... (9:15) Rebuild is completely over for this club ... (14:01) Guardians make surprising move with star arm ... (18:45) Diamondbacks are not going anywhere ... (22:02) Pitching trade candidates ... (24:41) Angels shortstop has a sexy swing ... (26:51) Elly De La Cruz the best product in baseball right now ... (31:44) Pirates still in first place ... (36:04) Power hitters who can hit the ball furthest
Who is the most dominant closer in Major League Baseball right now? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti rank the best of the best 1-10. It was a lot harder than anticipated. Who did we leave off? Listen to find out.
(1:50) Will's broadcasting routine on the road ... (7:21) Honorable mention closer list ... (9:40) Our closer at No. 10 has a 0.46 ERA ... (12.28) This closer is averaging 102-mph ... (14:08) Twins reliever confused water with Powerade ... (15:35) Padres and Phillies miss the playoffs? ... (17:55) Former All-Star players you may have forgotten ... (20:01) David Bednar has 30 strikeouts, 1 walk ... (28:50) 18.32 strikeouts per nine is INSANE! ... (31:31) Best closer in MLB right now ... (33:55) Boston-Cleveland preview ... (35:40) Can Luis Arraez hit .400 this year?
Who has the best offensive lineup in baseball right now? We have the stats and data to back it up, as Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti rank them 1-10. Rays? Braves? Our top-3 might surprise you, and No. 10 is guaranteed to make you think.
(4:36) Boston sports teams emulate their city ... (8:51) Lineup power rankings ... (9:30) San Francisco has a sneaky productive lineup ... (13:20) "He is new age Buster Posey" ... (18:01) Nolan Gorman: most improved hitter? ... (18:57) Red Sox have a top-5 offense ... (23:19) Rangers offense is one of the best in baseball ... (26:56) Rays or Braves take the No. 1 spot?
Will Middlebrooks and and Danny Vietti hand out grades for each MLB team through the first quarter of the season. Both agreed one particular team -- an expected contender -- deserves a big fat F! REPORT CARDS!
(6:05) This Southern California squad gets an A ... (8:10) Should the Padres get an F? ... (11:05) Only team to receive an A+ grade ... (17:09) New York team grades ... (23:45) NL Central contender get an F ... (31:43) Angels have just flat not been good enough
The Yankees were accused of cheating on Monday and found guilty for another crime the very next day. The Cardinals are publicly calling out players. And the Mets are struggling. MLB is dealing with a lot of high school drama. Should picking opposing teams' signs be considered cheating? What is our panic meter at?
(2:55) Drama between Blue Jays and Yankees ... (4:58) The truth behind picking signs ... (12:58) Unwritten rules for picking signs ... (16:55) Concern level for Mets is "high" ... (24:40) Cardinals have no feel as an organization this year, which is shocking ... (31:08) How to fix the San Diego Padres ... (34:17) Familiar team is the team to beat in NL West
If you didn't know the player names and had only their statistics to make your selection, which player would you choose? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti take a look at side-by-side blind resumes and make their selections for which player they would rather have. The players' names are then revealed after they make their picks. Brooksy was STUNNED to hear the last one.
(2:52) Big takeaways from first month of the season ... (3:11) Yankees are in trouble ... (6:25) Wander Franco's ball flip sets Twitter on fire ... (8:27) Updates league numbers with new rules ... (11:15) Fans protesting in Oakland ... (17:49) Is MLB a news medium? ... (23:11) Balls were flying in Mexico City Series ... (25:07) Blind resumes ... (34:05) Will Middlebrooks' was on the same path as this superstar third baseman
Are the Orioles and Pirates actually the two best teams in baseball? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti try to figure out how so many low-payroll teams are finding success this season. You have to hear why Will believes the Orioles are the real deal.
(6:57) Will's conversation with Mike Trout in Boston ... (10:35) The truth behind the A's relocating to Las Vegas ... (15:41) NL Central is wide open ... (19:57) Pirates the best team in the NL? ... (23:30) Low payroll teams dominating the league ... (25:45) Assessing the Orioles' ceiling ... (27:34) Way-too-early look at upcoming free agents ... (35:31) Reaction to Tatis dancing in the outfield ... (39:49) Most underrated bullpen in baseball? ... (43:17) Where MLB went wrong in Max Scherzer's sticky situation
Time to overreact? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti discuss their biggest takeaways from the first couple weeks of the season. Plus, we have updated pitch clock data on game times, offensive production, and attendance.
(3:27) How important is a hot start? ... (6:41) Red Sox are still a "fun team" ... (11:02) Anthony Rendon suspension ... (15:08) Scoring and home runs are up, game times down ... (22:11) Rays are dismantling teams ... (28:10) Concern with Francisco Lindor's swing? ... (30:45) Minor league team throws no-hitter, loses 7-5 ... (34:11) Brewers at the top of the NL Central ... (36:26) Oli Marmol's public benching of Tyler O'Neill was "trash" ... (42:01) Confusion with certain pitch clock language
Happy Opening Day to all that celebrate! We wrap up our divisional previews with the AL West and NL West with special guest Jessica Kleinschmidt. Hear why the Padres are, unarguably, a better team on paper than any team in the NL West and possibly the entire National League. Also, will the Los Angeles Angels finally break the longest playoff drought in baseball? We say yes!
(4:52) Sergio Romo's master of craft legacy ... (8:36) Astros have the highest win total line ... (12:25) This AL West team had a sneaky good offseason ... (17:00) Rangers spent money, but is it enough? ... (22:38) Most important season in Angels franchise history? ... (27:38) Are the Oakland A's the worst team in baseball? ... (33:51) Dodgers lost nearly 10 starters ... (36:50) Padres poised to win 100 games? ... (42:50) Giants are sneaky and creative ... (49:02) D-Backs are under-appreciated ... (52:54) Rockies win total is the best bet in the division ... (55:33) Real or fictional player?
The St. Louis Cardinals are built to be a World Series contender, but can a dark horse team in the division make some noise? AL Central will be a three-team fight to the finish line and could feature some AL Pennant contenders.
(1:58) Media attention in central ... (6:36) Guardians are the hottest ticket to win AL Pennant ... (10:10) Why the Twins are a sleepy AL Pennant contender ... (16:25) This team could win the division or finish in last place ... (21:27) Will likes the over for the Tigers ... (26:25) Royals had a surprisingly good home record last year ... (29:36) Cardinals win total is a steal ... (32:10) Cardinals the best franchise in MLB? ... (33:50) Brewers are in a bad place ... (38:18) Will likes the Cubs as playoff contenders ... (42:12) Pirates have a surprisingly sneaky lineup ... (44:24) Glass is half full for Reds fans
Will the Atlanta Braves repeat as champs or could Steve Cohen and his super piggy bank finally get the Mets over the hump? And don't forget about the reigning NL Champion Phillies. The NL East division is absolutely STACKED. Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti detail everything you need to know before Opening Day. Plus, we draw named to see who will be players in the first ever WAR Fantasy Baseball League.
(3:07) Braves even better than last year? ... (6:42) Mets bullpen trade options ... (12:01) Edwin Diaz injury impact on win total ... (21:44) Bryce Harper could be back in May ... (23:45) Phillies the best over/under bet ... (25:49) Could the Marlins sneak into the playoffs? ... (29:36) Zero chance the Nationals win 60 games ... (33:26) Fantasy Baseball League Name Drawing
World Baseball Classic is officially over and Opening Day is next week! Who will be the Yankees starting shortstop? Why do Sportsbooks think the Orioles' success last season was a fluke? Is Toronto the team to beat? Will Middlebooks and Danny Vietti pick their over/unders on the win totals in the AL East. Plus, they discuss their favorite moments from the World Baseball Classic.
(4:31) Favorite World Baseball Classic ratings ... (9:31) Injuries in the WBC ... (15:20) Why Shohei Ohtani is the best player of this era ... (18:58) Yankees preview, win total ... (23:37) Blue Jays the team to beat in division? ... (29:10) Rays preview, win total ... (33:22) Red Sox win total is "laughable" ... (41:15) Why Sportsbooks do not believe in the Orioles
10 BREAKOUT PLAYER candidates for the 2023 MLB season, including Gunnar Henderson and Corbin Carroll. Will Middlebrooks gives us an update live from Red Sox camp in Fort Myers, Florida. Plus, we detail the best moments so far in the World Baseball Classic.
(1:02) HUGE WAKE AND RAKE PODCAST NEWS ... (5:20) Update from Red Sox camp ... (10:06) Alex Cora's comments on the pitch clock ... (13:50) Will's conversation with Kike Hernandez about the shift ... (16:57) World Baseball Classic recap ... (19:35) Lars Nootbaar's pregame speech for Team Japan ... (22:50) Marlins sign two MLB infielders ... (26:29) Astros starter ready to breakout ... (35:45) Pirates player not named Oneil Cruz could be a star ... (42:36) Honorable mention breakout players ... (44:08) Most famous person in Will's contacts
Jose Trevino became the first New York Yankee ever to win a Platinum Glove this year. There's no better way to celebrate that feat than joining Will and Danny on the podcast. The 2022 All-Star catcher tells us about his experiences with PitchCom, his recruiting pitch to Aaron Judge, and how he showed up to his son's Career Day at school in full uniform. (4:59) Mike Clevinger signing reaction ... (9:06) Astros sign former MVP Jose Abreu ... (12:58) Aaron Judge seen in San Francisco ... (16:22) Jose Trevino joins the show ... (17:42) Trevino reflects on 2022 season ... (20:38) On being traded to New York ... (21:10) How Joey Gallo handled the NYC pressure ... (22:18) Yankees recruiting pitch to Aaron Judge ... (27:42) Jose Trevino's son's role model is a teammate ... (28:40) Trevino showed up to his son's Career Day in full uniform ... (35:17) Who is the Yankees class clown? ... (40:18) Best player Jose has played with but nobody knows ... (43:18) Best looking player on Yankees? ... (44:15) Why Nestor Cortes should not be a babysitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Free agency has begun. Where will Aaron Judge land? How about Jacob deGrom? Justin Verlander? Anthony Rizzo? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti make their free agent predictions. (0:31) Astros fire key front office members ... (3:55) Expect the Rangers to make noise ... (7:27) Free agent predictions ... (8:05) Aaron Judge: Yankees or Giants? ... (12:40) Surprising Jacob deGrom landing spot ... (18:05) Does Xander Bogaerts leave Boston? ... (25:29) Cubs sign superstar shortstop ... (27:25) Trea Turner to Philly? ... (32:31) New shortstop in Atlanta? ... (35:26) Cy Young pitcher returns to Houston ... (41:39) Dodgers sign a new centerfielder ... (44:41) Rangers make starting pitching splash ... (47:32) Padres bring back familiar face ... (49:40) Baltimore signs All-Star third baseman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Goodbye 2022 and hello 2023. Before looking ahead to the offseason and free agency, Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti reminisce on their favorite memories from the 2022 season; including Mike Trout tipping pitches, Miggy Cabrera's 3K hits, and Cal Raleigh making Mariners history. Also, congrats to the Houston Astros on winning the 2022 World Series. (4:04) Astros win 2022 World Series ... (5:33) Who had better decade: Nationals or Dodgers? ... (7:45) SEC football environment vs. Fenway Park ... (13:05) Appreciating the Phillies' surprise postseason run ... (19:55) Dusty Baker is the big winner ... (22:45) Looking ahead to Phillies offseason ... (26:13) Detailing the Astros recipe for success ... (28:43) Favorite moments from the 2022 season ... (36:23) Biggest breakout player from 2022 ... (40:46) Elon Musk ruining Twitter? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The 2022 World Series matchup is set. The cinderella story Phillies will look to hoist their first trophy since 2008, while the Astros look to prove the haters wrong by winning their first since the infamous 2017 sign-stealing World Series. Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti break down the epic matchup, analyze the data, and make their predictions. (2:35) World Series start time and date ... (3:04) Astros dynasty? ... (5:05) Danny pegged the Phillies back in July? ... (7:57) Will's boss story about playing with Bryce Harper ... (12:02) Did Bob Melvin and the Padres choke away the NLCS? ... (19:59) Astros' greatest strength ... (22:26) Why Hector Neris and Jose Alvarado could play huge roles ... (29:00) Phillies need a short series ... (34:23) Is Aaron Judge leaving New York? ... (37:08) Looking back at our preseason World Series predictions ... (38:37) Matching up Phillies and Astros ... (40:05) World Series prediction ... (45:02) Halloween costume plans Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
IT'S TIME! Playoff time! Will and Danny dive into each playoff matchup and fill out their brackets live on the show, including World Series picks. Brooksy is rolling with a familiar World Series matchup, but Danny is putting his money on a wild card team. But, what happens in between? October baseball, here we come! (3:30) Playoff bracket preview ... (4:43) Guardians-Rays preview ... (9:51) Mariners-Blue Jays preview ... (14:35) Phillies-Cardinals preview ... (19:01) Padres-Mets preview ... Yankees ALDS preview ... (28:30) Astros ALDS preview ... (30:08) Braves NLDS preview ... (33:34) Dodgers NLDS preview ... (38:22) LCS preview ... (43:45) World Series predictions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
With the postseason field almost set, Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti pick one player from each playoff team who they believe will be the X-factor for their respective club. Also, does Shohei Ohtani have a chance at the AL MVP or is Aaron Judge the unanimous winner? (2:17) Aaron Judge chasing history ... (6:55) Shohei Ohtani vs. Aaron Judge ... (16:32) American League X-factors ... (16:54) Why Luis Severino is key to the Yankees success ... (22:39) The pitcher Will feared the most as a player ... (30:51) Seattle will be a madhouse if they make the playoffs ... (33:22) National League X-Factors ... (41:01) Trout and deGrom had a similar stat ... (43:38) Dissecting Juan Soto's struggles ... (45:21) Reaction to new MLB rules being implemented in 2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
With less than 4 weeks remaining in the regular season, the stretch run is upon us and the playoff races are heating up. Four teams are battling for three NL Wild Card spots. Who will win the AL Central? Will and Danny make their playoff predictions. (5:30) What Michael Morse is doing now ... (7:54) Kike Hernandez signs extension ... (10:40) Two key injuries, two AL playoff hopeful teams ... (18:20) Yankees epic collapse update ... (23:19) Albert Pujols' quest for 700 ... (25:30) Playoff predictions ... (26:00) Mets or Braves in NL East? ... (31:55) Mariners have easiest remaining schedule in AL ... (36:55) How are the Rays doing this? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Would you rather face the Yankees or Mariners right now? Will Middlebrooks explains why the Yankees are in trouble right now and why nobody is scared of the Bronx Bombers anymore. Also, minor league players are unionizing...what does that mean for the league and its players? Plus, it's never too soon to look ahead to the offseason and discuss the impending free agents. (0:55) Changes coming in Boston? ... (6:01) Media conspiracy stories and experiences ... (13:15) Julio Rodriguez's extension with the Mariners ... (18:15) AL teams want to play the Yankees now ... (23:33) Ohtani or Judge for AL MVP? ... (31:16) Minor leaguers are unionizing ... (32:50) Will's frustrating contract situation with Philadelphia ... (43:17) Players set to hit free agency ... (49:37) Will Albert Pujols reach 700? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Should the Padres really consider trading Fernando Tatis Jr. following the PED suspension? Will he ever recover from the backlash? Will and Danny give their perspectives on the turmoil between Tatis and the city of San Diego. Plus, is it time for the struggling Yankees to panic? Phillies a sneaky World Series contender? (1:30) Danny's first celebrity moment ... (3:35) Will's disappointment in Tatis ... (10:47) Tatis needs to stop lying ... (13:03) Did Tatis ruin his Hall of Fame chances? ... (16:31) Should Padres trade Tatis? ... (18:06) Manny Machado is a changed man ... (22:05) Time for Yankees to panic? ... (25:18) Why Red Sox should be rooting for Yankees ... (27:10) Pulse of the AL Central, Guardians ... (29:44) Astros lose outfielder for season ... (30:36) Mets or Dodgers in NL? ... (33:13) Dark horse World Series contender? ... (39:05) Horror flying stories Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fernando Tatis Jr. popped for PEDs. Red Sox finally win a series in the AL East. We got an inspiring feel-good story out in Colorado. Plus, can Albert Pujols reach 700 home runs? Full weekend recap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Holy trades! 18 former All-Stars were traded before this year's MLB Trade Deadline, including an absolute blockbuster in Juan Soto heading to San Diego. Who were the biggest winners and improved their team the most? Who were the biggest losers? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti break it all down. (0:55) Juan Soto to Padres is "biggest trade in MLB history" ... (5:01) Eric Hosmer impact on Red Sox ... (10:05) Padres add Josh Bell, Josh Hader, and Brandon Drury ... (11:13) Devin Williams not pleased with Brewers deadline ... (15:10) Will gives Yankees A+ grade ... (18:11) Joey Gallo a perfect fit in LA ... (20:25) List of all trades ... (21:50) Strange comments from White Sox GM ... (25:44) Biggest deadline winners ... (28:23) Biggest deadline losers ... (31:50) What are the Cubs doing? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
TRADES AND RUMORS! We are less than 48 hours away from the 2022 MLB Trade Deadline. We break down all the latest moves from this past weekend and so far on Monday. It's about to get crazy. Plus, Padres making big moves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Should the Red Sox buy or sell at the deadline? What about the Giants? White Sox? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti assess the situations for teams on the fence as the August 2nd trade deadline inches closer. Plus, we discuss some of the top trade candidates. (4:36) Teams guaranteed to sell at the deadline ... (7:08) Is Mike Trout's back injury career-threatening? ... (10:15) Should the Red Sox buy or sell? ... (16:46) Which players the Red Sox will trade ... (20:18) Will the Giants buy or sell? ... (25:51) Orioles should buy or sell? ... (30:35) What will the White Sox do at the deadline? ... (33:54) Juan Soto to the Cardinals gaining momentum ... (38:20) Are weddings fun or boring? ... (42:40) Willson Contreras rumors ... (47:32) Luis Castillo landing spots Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Rumors are swirling as the trade deadline inches closer. We have all the rumors and reports right here, including a development in the Willson Contreras sweepstakes. Plus, Carlos Rodon accidentally kicked a bat and hit his teammate? Shohei Ohtani vs. Aaron Judge for AL MVP? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
There is one team that is lurking in the shadows for Juan Soto's services. One specific team that has the prospects, the money, and desire. One may go as far to say this team is a "perfect fit." Danny lists his top landing spots for Juan Soto, including one particular perfect spot. (2:28) Weekend recap ... (5:17) Davis Ortiz Hall of Fame induction ... (8:21) Danny Depths ... (9:18) Juan Soto's contract assessment ... (12:34) Top landing spots for Soto ... (16:05) Soto to New York? ... (21:26) The "perfect fit" for Juan Soto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Why is everyone in MLB grumpy this week? Madison Bumgarner gets pissed at Victor Robles. Nick Castellanos gets into it with a reporter. Will breaks down the latest rumors and stirrings surrounding Juan Soto. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
28 runs in a baseball game? Sheesh. We recap the eventful Friday night of baseball and provide updates on the hot stove and injury list. Mariners streak is over. Mets make a trade. Brooksy has thoughts on the Red Sox and Soto. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The second half of the 2022 MLB season is upon us. Games are back. Will Middlebrooks makes his second half predictions and previews the coming months. MVP. World Series. And so much more. Baseball returns today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Everything you need to know from the 2022 MLB All-Star Game on Tuesday night at Dodger Stadium. Plus, Clayton Kershaw fulfilling a bucket list item for a young fan's grandfather may have been the best moment of it all. Any issues with the All-Star Game jerseys? Brooksy takes on the subject. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Happy Tuesday! We recap the HR Derby and preview the 2022 MLB All-Star Game set to take place Tuesday night in Los Angeles. Plus, Brooksy shares one of the coolest stories of the year that happened between Paul Blackburn and the Houston Astros. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to RAKE 10! Daily WAKE and RAKE Podcast episodes starts right now. Recaps, headlines, news, and get your daily dose of Cup of Brooksy. Only available on listening platforms. MLB Draft results. MLB All-Star starting pitchers. Playoff picture. Home Run Derby betting odds and preview. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The 2022 MLB All-Star Game rosters were revealed. That must mean we are at the halfway point of the season, which makes it a perfect time to hand out our midseason awards. Aaron Judge or Shohei Ohtani for AL MVP? Is Sandy Alcantara in the running for NL MVP? Plus, we take a look at the league standings and play some All-Star trivia. (4:06) Home Run Derby participants ... (7:55) MLB standings update ... (8:20) Will the Orioles be buyers at the deadline? ... (13:40) Red Sox update ... (16:56) Midseason awards ... (17:11) Julio Rodriguez the best phenom since Mike Trout? ... (19:29) Braves have top two NL Rookie of the Year favorites ... (21:43) AL Cy Young ... (23:25) Why Sandy Alcantara is the best pitcher in baseball right now ... (29:48) Judge or Ohtani for MVP? ... (37:55) All-Star Game trivia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It's confirmed: Shohei Ohtani is not human, but the Angels somehow still stink. Plus, the Pittsburgh Pirates and Cleveland Guardians get some much deserved recognition. Will and Danny go coast-to-coast to detail the biggest storylines from each division from this past week and through the first 70 games of the season. (4:25) Trout and Ohtani have two of the greatest series performances of all-time in same week ... (7:49) Angels largest contracts have been mostly atrocious ... (13:27) Guardians are the most dangerous team in the AL Central? ... (17:36) Yankees on pace for 120 wins ... (21:41) Do Red Sox have any chance against New York? ... (25:32) We need umpire accountability in MLB ... (30:57) Freddie Freeman's emotional return to Atlanta ... (34:28) Oneil Cruz is a physical specimen ... (38:16) Padres, Dodgers, or Giants in NL West? ... (40:50) Devers or Judge for the next 5 years? ... (43:30) Q&A session Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The 2022 MLB Trade Deadline is quickly approaching. Who will be the hottest tickets on the market? Frankie Montas? Luis Castillo? Will and Danny detail 10 trades they want to see happen before the clock hits zero. Plus, we go around the league to discuss the latest stirrings and controversies. (4:06) Standings update ... (6:18) Tony La Russa walks Trea Turner on 1-2 count ... (11:10) Why Alex Cora is special ... (13:22) Are the Angels done? ... (17:27) Braves winning streak ... (20:03) Stephen Strasburg and biggest MLB contracts ... (23:02) Fernando Tatis Jr. update ... (24:09) How the Cardinals outsmarted the baserunning system ... (28:24) 10 trades we want to see happen ... (31:50) Willson Contreras to San Francisco? ... (36:31) Market for Luis Castillo ... (42:01) Nelson Cruz to Milwaukee? ... (44:30) Free hat giveaway Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Which MLB players would you want on your beer league softball team? Daniel Vogelbach? Bartolo Colon? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti create their ultimate slow pitch softball rosters using active MLB players. Plus, what the hell happened between Joc Pederson and Tommy Pham? All that, plus much more. (3:50) Importance of Memorial Day ... (8:03) Joc Pederson and Tommy Pham's fantasy league beef ... (12:05) Strangest MLB stories we can remember ... (13:01) Lance Lynn and Eloy Jimenez make rehab starts ... (14:11) Rays lead league in time missed to injuries ... (16:14) Royals pitcher has the best story you will hear all week ... (24:38) Ultimate beer league teams ... (27:48) Will's beer league lineup ... (29:48) Danny's beer league lineup ... (35:17) Will's update from the booth ... (37:20) What spider tack is really used for ... (39:08) Will grades Danny's swing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Why the hell would the Nationals trade Juan Soto? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti gauge the latest rumors regarding the 23-year-old Nationals superstar. Also, Will and Danny detail the Fenway Park embrace that was 2 years in the making. (5:45) Justin Upton signs with Mariners ... (7:33) Fenway Park first-time experience ... (16:17) Best reliever walkout song in baseball ... (22:10) Nationals trading Juan Soto? ... (25:35) Midseason trade candidates ... (28:24) Trevor Story's hitting adjustment ... (31:16) Mets injuries mounting ... (34:38) Adley Rutschman and Cardinals prospect tandem make debuts ... (36:50) Camden Yards left field wall ... (39:19) Q&A Mailbag ... (48:27) Cool Jesse Winker story Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Is it already time for the Red Sox to hit the panic button? What about the Braves? Will and Danny gauge the panic meter for teams stumbling out of the gates. Plus, they are giving away FREE MLB TICKETS to one lucky listener. (4:25) How Danny Vietti saved Christian Yelich's career ... (13:15) Rowdy Tellez' hilarious nickname ... (16:30) Explaining Seiya Suzuki's struggles ... (24:30) Why playing in Boston is different ... (26:30) Manny Machado and Padres' hot start ... (33:12) NL West is stacked ... (35:31) Chris Woodward makes another stupid comment ... (39:07) Panic meter for Red Sox ... (48:01) The truth behind Trevor Story ... (49:23) Detroit Tigers panic meter ... (52:11) Atlanta Braves panic meter ... (54:41) Phillies panic meter ... (59:01) MLB ticket giveaway Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Angels, Marlins, and Twins are off to hot starts. So, are they for real? Should we buy what they are selling? Will and Danny wrap up the first month of baseball with a little buy or sell. Plus, how are the minor leagues dealing with the new pitch clocks? Controversies have already started. Latest on Trevor Bauer suspension. (4:50) Dissecting the Red Sox struggles ... (7:49) Christian Yelich inside scoop update ... (9:38) Will's conversation with Mike Trout about baseballs ... (15:43) BBQ vs. smoker ... (19:08) Checking in on minor league pitch clock rule ... (24.44) College pitcher throws 105.5 mph fastball ... (26:40) Clayton Kershaw's best season that nobody will remember ... (28:24) Kevin Gausman is very, very good ... (32:01) Trevor Bauer suspension ... (35:50) Buy or sell? ... (36:03) Buying the Miami Marlins? ... (38:40) Xander Bogaerts could be dealt? ... (39:08) Time to respect the Mariners? ... (41:31) Buying or selling the Rockies ... (44:00) Buy or sell the first place Twins? ... (45:50) Angels are playoff-bound? ... (48:50) Are we okay with mic'ing up players during the game? ... (52:30) Yankees have the best record in baseball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Will Middlebrooks is back and he provides us some behind the scenes perspectives from his first week doing Red Sox pre- and postgame live shows for NESN. Also, are Yankee fans the absolute worst in baseball? Who is next to reach the 3,000-hit club after Miguel Cabrera? (5:06) Behind the scenes of a tv analyst ... (13:07) Miguel Cabrera makes history ... (15:01) Jose Iglesias' part in Miggy's moment ... (17:33) Next in line for 3,000 hits ... (20:26) Are Yankee fans all scumbags for what happened against Cleveland? ... (27:04) Nationals upset over unwritten rules ... (33:52) "The baseballs are dead" ... (37:37) The curious case of Christian Yelich ... (45:45) Red Sox week preview Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
One week into the 2022 MLB season and what a week it was! Unwritten rule controversies, a perfect game taken away, bases loaded intentional walks, and so much more. So much to discuss and we brought a special co-host on the episode to break it all down. (2:33) Dustin Pedroia's high school alma mater ... (3:44) Alyssa Nakken makes history ... (7:24) Dodgers take away Clayton Kershaw's chance at perfection ... (14:08) Mike Trout and Byron Buxton injury report ... (15:29) Bases loaded intentional walk? ... (19:25) Are the Oakland A's actually good? ... (24:04) Muricio Dubon upset the Padres' unwritten rules ... (29:17) Most impressive team so far ... (30:56) Most impressive player so far ... (32:18) Most disappointing team so far ... (34:35) Biggest surprises so far Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
OPENING DAY IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER! Will and Danny make their predictions for the 2022 season final standings, World Series winner, and pick their win totals for each division. You will not believe who Danny has winning the AL West or who Will has missing the playoffs. (3:05) Top prospects on Opening Day rosters ... (6:20) Pitchers starting season on IL ... (7:13) Justin Upton potential landing spots ... (10:48) Oakland A's an embarrassment to the league ... (12:23) MLB division standing predictions ... (13:16) AL East preview/predictions ... (22:17) AL Central preview/predictions ... (26:23) AL West preview/predictions ... (30:48) NL West preview/predictions ... (35:38) NL Central preview/predictions ... (38:57) NL East preview/predictions ... (40:53) AL Wild Card predictions ... (43:25) NL Wild Card predictions ... (47:55) Will's World Series prediction ... (49:22) Danny's World Series predictions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Opening Day is just over a week away. Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti list and analyze their Top 25 Players in Major League Baseball heading into the 2022 season. Could Juan Soto take over Mike Trout's No. 1 spot? How about Shohei Ohtani? Listen to find out. (3:32) Will made headlines after his comments about New York City ... (8:09) Odd commonality from this year's free agent class ... (12:52) Albert Pujols return to St. Louis and Ketel Marte extension ... (14:58) Top 25 players ... (15:58) Top players 25-20 ... (17:18) Top players 19-15 ... (19:14) Top players 14-11 ... (22:14) Top 10 players ... (27:50) Top 5 players ... (36:17) No. 1 player in baseball ... (39:41) Why this is Mike Trout's most important season of his career ... (42:54) MLB executive was instructed to play MLB the Show to learn about salary caps Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The free agent and trade markets are going absolutely BONKERS! Will and Danny detail all of the latest rumors, reports, and deals. Also, does Matt Olson to the Braves guarantee Freddie Freeman is not returning to Atlanta? (3:45) Fernando Tatis Jr. expected to miss 2-3 months ... (9:06) Explaining Nelson Cruz signing with the Nats ... (12:26) Yankees trade Gary Sanchez, acquire Josh Donaldson and new shortstop ... (15:27) Freddie Freeman to LA? ... (18:24) Braves acquire first baseman Matt Olson ... (19:01) Carlos Correa's market shrinking ... (20:54) Seiya Suzuki rumors ... (23:23) More predictions ... (23:30) Castellanos to The Bay? ... (24:26) Will Middlebrooks' bold Kris Brant prediction ... (27:26) White Sox bullpen is NASTY ... (29:31) Free hat giveaway Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
EMERGENCY PODCAST 🚨: Major League Baseball and the MLBPA have reached an agreement on a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA)...meaning baseball is BACK! Will and Danny detail everything you need to know, including what to expect now with free agency starting. (0:40) Opening Day start date ... (6:51) International draft agreement ... (8:10) Expanded playoff details ... (10:29) CBA voting results ... (11:50) Players to wear ads on jerseys ... (13:00) Tax threshold ... (13:48) Free agents still available ... (14:16) Where does Carlos Correa land? ... (15:38) Trade market blockbusters ... (17:44) New rules to be implemented in 2023 ... (18:45) Trevor Story landing spots ... (25:10) Blue Jays about to make a splash? ... (28:36) Jeff Passan got hacked Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
ESPN insider Buster Olney joins the show and explains to Will and Danny which group of players will be most negatively impacted by the new collective bargaining agreement. Also, is Freddie Freeman really not returning to Atlanta? Free agency update. (2:15) Mysterious team gave offer to Freddie Freeman ... (4:23) Buster Olney joins the show ... (7:29) "The middle class of players are going to get crushed" ... (9:12) Middle class salaries have been cut in half ... (16:10) Underlying reasons why Kyle Seager retired? ... (17:21) "There's a chance they land on a 14-team expanded playoff" ... (22:30) A message to the "just hit it the other way" group ... (25:57) The Braves have turned Freddie Freeman into a competition ... (27:25) Potential landing spots for Freddie Freeman ... (28:58) Will's perspective on the banning of the shift ... (36:37) Owners plotting against each other? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We have reached the unofficial MLB lockout deadline day, and we still do not have a deal between Major League Baseball and the MLBPA? So, what happens next? Danny and Will provide a lockout update and explain what fans should expect next. (1:30) MLB lockout latest ... (3:10) MLBPA's new expanded playoff proposal ... (8:04) Incentivizing competition ... (9:57) Explaining the competitive balance tax (CBT) ... (17:19) Jeff Passan's latest ... (18:20) Is the league open to having a full season with a later start date? ... (19:33) Players do not believe a deal will get done by deadline ... (22:11) What happens when a deal does get done? ... (25:30) College baseball updates ... (27:21) Is skiing the hardest sport ever? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Is it a myth or an inevitability that the game of baseball is dying? What do the ratings tell us? Will and Danny respond to critics claiming the game of baseball is dying amid the ongoing lockout between Major League Baseball and the player's union.
(5:47) Twitter morons critique Mike Trout's swing ... (10:00) Will's crazy story about Adrian Gonzalez's bats ... (13:03) Notable minor league signings ... (14:57) Is baseball dying? ... (19:30) Explaining MLB owners' revenue sharing problem ... (21:30) Why it's the owners' fault, not the players, prices have increased ... (25:27) MLB's marketing problem is a lazy argument ... (28:17) Will's solution to fixing baseball ... (36:04) MLB's young stars ... (40:15) Baseball critique fallacies ... (42:34) How baseball is viewed today vs. previous eras Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We have a MLB lockout update. Delays to the start of Spring Training appear to be inevitable. Time to worry? Plus, Will Middlebrooks answers everything one would want to know about living the life of a big leaguer. What is it like playing in Yankee Stadium and Fenway Park? Is Derek Jeter and Tom Brady as amazing as they say? Plus, so much more. (1:58) MLB lockout updates ... (8:11) Why Will raked off of Andy Pettitte ... (13:05) Difficulties of hitting a changeup ... (23:55) Playing against A-Rod he was exposed for PEDs ... (25:00) Did Red Sox pitchers hit A-Rod intentionally? ... (27:20) Mailbag Q/A ... (29:39) Will's story about meeting Tom Brady ... (37:57) Why Daniel Bard was the toughest teammate to face ... (48:25) Favorite teammate in Boston ... (57:03) Will's embarrassing moment against Kyle Hendricks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Who better to talk about the 2022 Hall of Fame results than with Hall of Fame voter and MLB Insider Jon Heyman. MLB Network's own says the writers and voters got it wrong and it's a bad day for Cooperstown. Jon, Danny, and Will all make their case for Barry Bonds in the Hall. (3:30) Heyman's first reaction ... (4:34) "I don't think this was the right result" ... (8:38) Nobody tested for PEDs more than David Ortiz ... (9:20) "I know David Ortiz failed that test" ... (15:46) Facts of Barry Bonds' PED scandal ... (19:31) Bonds' pre-steroid use numbers are HOF worthy ... (23:15) Do political views sway voters? ... (28:05) Will Posey and Pedroia get in the HOF? ... (30:54) Will sounds off on Big Papi's steroid accusers ... (33:57) Bonds never tested positive ... (39:25) Impact of likability ... (43:28) "This was a major failure by the voters" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Yahoo Sports MLB reporter and writer Hannah Keyser joins the podcast to fill us in on all of the latest regarding negotiations between Major League Baseball and the MLB Player's Union. Is it time to panic? What rule changes are on the table? Everything you need to know. (3:00) Hannah Keyser introduction ... (4:58) Dumbing down the lockout in simplest terms ... (9:04) Understanding why we are in a lockout ... (16:22) Will there be a salary floor? ... (23:07) Expanded postseason is a guarantee ... (26:01) Ghost runner to start extra innings? ... (29:31) Could we get robo umpires? ... (33:10) Fixing the infield shift ... (37:27) When is the next scheduled meeting? ... (39:19) Time to panic? Panic Meter? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Goodbye, 2021. Hello, 2022. Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti reminisce on their favorite moments from the 2021 MLB season and take a look ahead at five players poised to breakout in 2022. Also, they answer your questions with a Q&A Mailbag. (2:24) Best Christmas presents ... (9:51) Best moments from 2021 MLB season ... (18:38) Kyle Seager's retirement and legacy ... (22:22) 5 players ready to breakout in 2022 ... (30:19) Why do people hate on Salvador Perez? ... (36:55) Q&A Mailbag ... (44:46) What do big league players do for fun when on the road? ... (53:04) New Year's resolutions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL IS IN A LOCKOUT for the first time since 1994-95, and everybody is going berserk. Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti were told some information from inside the CBA discussions that you might want to hear. Plus, they grade each of the big time free agent signings so far. (1:20) Will's hotel alias ... (3:57) Details of the MLB Lockout ... (5:45) Universal DH numbers ... (9:14) Proposed expanded playoff format ... (15:10) Sources say Rob Manfred is lying to the public? ... (22:54) Injured players can't use team doctors ... (25:22) Free agency deadline ... (27:46) Will's story about Bobby Bonilla ... (28:50) Free agent signing grades ... (32:05) Why the Rangers had to overpay ... (34:58) Mariners need more than Robbie Ray ... (38:16) Is Carlos Correa's market shrinking? ... (41:33) Mets get a C+ for the Scherzer signing ... (43:04) Will's biggest surprise ... (45:15) Tigers get their shortstop ... (50:08) Favorite deal so far ... (52:07) What deal we dislike the most ... (54:28) The Rays made a big mistake Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The baseball season may be over, but the action has only just begun. Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti detail the top free agents hitting the open market this offseason and give their predictions. Also, they look back at their 2021 freezing cold takes in what turned out to be a hilarious segment. (4:12) Will the Oakland A's and Cincinnati Reds clean house? ... (8:21) Oakland fans deserve better ... (11:34) MVP finalist fun fact ... (14:00) Is Buster Posey a Hall of Famer? ... (19:44) Top free agents ... (20:06) Carlos Correa latest rumblings ... (27:37) San Francisco Giants offseason targets ... (28:52) Will's big offseason prediction ... (37:02) Could the Marlins make some noise? ... (41:35) Freezing Cold Takes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It's all come down to this! The Atlanta Braves have shocked the world. The Astros continue to pride themselves on being baseball's biggest villain. Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti detail everything you need to know before Game 1 on Tuesday.
(1:56) Houston Astros preview ... (5:33) Atlanta Braves preview ... (9:20) Betting odds ... (9:49) Game 1 pitching matchups ... (13:02) Why the Dodgers fell short ... (19:21) Explaining Luis Garcia's rapid rise in velocity ... (28:26) Who has the better lineup? ... (36:44) Tyler Matzek's unlikely journey to the World Series ... (30:01) Revisiting the Astros sign-stealing scandal ... (33:40) Who has the better starting rotation? ... (38:11) World Series predictions
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Umpire Gabe Morales punched Wilmer Flores out on a check swing to end the Giants season, and Will Middlebrooks is fired up about it. Is it the worst call in playoff history? Danny and Will also discuss throwing out the first pitch in Boston and preview the ALCS and NLCS.
(0:50) Throwing out the first pitch at Fenway Park ... (3:46) What Will told Xander Bogaerts after the ALDS ... (8:30) Could we see a Will Middlebrooks comeback attempt? ... (12:15) More nerve-racking: playing in the World Series or throwing a first pitch? ... (13:10) Wilmer Flores and the Giants got screwed ... (19:41) Astros-Red Sox ALCS series preview, pitching matchups ... (21:47) Loudest ballpark in MLB? ... (25:22) Braves-Dodgers NLCS series preview ... (28:06) Best rivalry in baseball? ... (30:45) Danny's surprise Dodger call ... (30:59) Why did the Cardinals fire manager Mike Shildt? ... (34:30) LCS predictions
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Yankees, Red Sox, Blue Jays, and Mariners are all battling for the American League Wild Card spots. Who will win those final two playoff spots? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti are joined by Royals starting shortstop Nicky Lopez to break it all down.
(3:09) AL Wild Card standings ... (3:21) Red Sox throwing away their playoff hopes ... (4:27) Better to play a team out of contention or in contention? ... (7:24) AL WC weekend pitching matchups ... (7:53) Will the Rays rest their starters versus the Yankees? ... (9:01) Devin Williams injury, impact on Brewers ... (10:33) Seattle Mariners a team of destiny? ... (12:16) One of the craziest stats of the season ... (14:30) Mariners pitching matchups ... (16:47) Best thing happened for Jared Kelenic ... (18:56) Blue Jays pitching matchups ... (20:15) Possible for none of the MVP candidates to be playoff-bound ... (21:09) Nicky Lopez joins the show ... (22:12) Minor league demotion to MLB Gold Glove? ... (28:13) Salvador Perez's secret formula ... (29:08) Why Salvador Perez deserves MVP consideration ... (30:15) Nicky Lopez, the most underrated defender in baseball? ... (39:24) Will we see dogs in the dugout? ... (40:28) Most underrated Royals player? ... (42:26) AL Wild Card predictions
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Guess who's back...back again! Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti make their return to discuss the playoff races, MVP debates, and the latest on the confrontation between Fernando Tatis and Manny Machado.
(4:39) Why the San Francisco Giants are a good story but limited ... (6:50) Dodgers are better suited for Wild Card Game ... (9:13) Does resting your starters actually hurt your team for the playoffs? ... (16:02) Seattle Mariners stat of the day ... (14:29) Blue Jays the most dangerous team in the AL? ... (26:00) Jenny Dell makes an appearance ... (30:30) Ryan Mountcastle deserves more attention ... (31:29) Tatis-Machado dugout confrontation ... (46:10) Dissecting the Padres issues ... (56:25) Fernando Tatis Jr. or Bryce Harper for NL MVP? ... (58:00) Why Vladdy Jr. shouldn't win the AL MVP award
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The July 31 MLB Trade Deadline is fast approaching. Who will be traded? Who will be buyers? Who will be sellers? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti discuss which players should be on the move and which teams should be calling for their services.
(1:09) Rowdy Roundup, Jacob deGrom injury ... (7:03) Hitting numbers improving, why? ... (10:07) Should the Yankees Buy or Sell? ... (12:38) Will's conflict with Phillies fan ... (16:31) Most important potential trade piece? ... (21:55) Which team should be the most aggressive? ... (22:31) Giants and Kris Bryant a match made in heaven ... (25:19) Trade Matchmaker/Top Trade Candidates ... (38:39) Don't be surprised by the Padres at the deadline ... (40:20) Should the Mariners go for it?
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The Chicago Cubs are now in sell-mode. What does that mean for Kris Bryant? Where is the best landing spot for the perennial All Star? How about Anthony Rizzo? Javy Baez? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti discuss it all, including a first half recap.
(3:03) Best landing spots for Kris Bryant ... (9:27) Bryant to California? ... (16:00) First half recap ... (16:20) Will's most disappointing team ... (20:34) Will's biggest surprise ... (24:36) Best ballpark to hit in ... (31:33) Not picking Shohei Ohtani to win the HR Derby? ... (34:39) First half MVPs ... (37:57) Trea Turner is "the most underrated player in baseball" ... (39:36) Bad for baseball for deGrom to skip All Star Game? ... (42:43) Danny and Will made a derby wager
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Happy Bobby Bonilla Day to all those who observe! Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti make their picks for who should start in the 2021 MLB All Star Game at Coors Field in Colorado. Who is the biggest snub so far? Who is over-voted? Plus, they detail the latest beef burger between Lucas Giolito and Josh Donaldson.
(3:22) Should fans be voting for All Star rosters? ... (4:35) Biggest All Star snubs so far ... (11:40) Josh Donaldson is now the most hated player in Chicago ... (15:00) Will's most hated pitcher, benches clear ... (22:15) Will says Yankees should trade Gary Sanchez ... (30:07) All Star starter selections. ... (45:05) Trea Turner makes MLB history
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Phillies manager Joe Girardi accused Nationals pitcher Max Scherzer of using sticky substances. Sergio Romo dropped his pants on the field. WHAT IS GOING ON IN BASEBALL? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti explain situation and predict how long it will last. They also go around the league, including a Padres series sweep over the Dodgers recap.
(0:45) Max Scherzer and Joe Girardi beef ... (4:23) Rob Manfred says the crackdown is going "very well" ... (7:31) Who is to blame? ... (13:36) Nick Castellanos' ultimate troll job ... (16:15) Dodgers-Padres series recap ... (21:03) Giants still best record in baseball ... (25:48) Wander Franco's debut ... (27:18) Will's must-hear stories about Yoenis Cespedes ... (31:35) David Ortiz' bat mobile ... (33:22) Who we most want to see in the HR Derby.
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Rays pitcher Tyler Glasnow blames Major League Baseball's decision to crackdown on foreign substances for his UCL injury. Is it valid or is he just making an excuse? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti take the stand to debate the new sticky rules.
(2:37) Tyler Glasnow sounds off ... (5:51) Will's response to Glasnow ... (8:08) How grips might change based on new rules ... (10:30) Will goes off on Commissioner Rob Manfred ... (15:01) "The Commissioner is f----ing up baseball" ... (17:50) Will disagrees strongly with Danny saying the new rules could expose stars ... (25:22) Danny argues that MLB stars could be exposed
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Is it time for the New York Yankees to hit the panic button? Perhaps, yes. Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti gauge the MLB Panic Meter for 4 different teams in limbo. Plus, they announce the ticket giveaway winner from the Twitter giveaway challenge. FREE TICKETS!
(4:14) Pete Alonso's (not-so) conspiracy theory ... (8:43) Explaining what a juiced ball is ... (14:08) Recent doreign substance crackdown impact on hitting ... (17:43) Aaron Boone roasts a reporter ... (22:03) What's the dumbest question a reporter asked Will? ... (23:41) Gerrit Cole goes blank ... (25:35) White Sox-Rays series preview ... (28:16) Yasmani Grandal's outrageous slash line ... (29:14) Trade rumors ... (29:20) Joey Gallo to the Padres? ... (34:39) Panic Meter ... (43:15) Time for the Twins to sell ... (46:49) Danny's Mommy of the Week ... (48:15) Giveaway winner announcement
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Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti detail why Gerrit Cole, Trevor Bauer, and others are all of a sudden seeing their spin rates decrease with Major League Baseball recently deciding to crack down on foreign substances. Also, they list 20 hitters who are on pace to make their first All Star team.
(2:22) Weidest substance Will saw anybody use ... (6:52) Gerrit Cole and Trevor Bauer see their spin rates decrease ... (11:18) Jacob deGrom's spin rate was already down ... (15:42) Danny's message to the Francisco Lindor haters ... (22:50) Red Sox sweep of Yankees not surprising ... (26:48) 20 hitters on track for first All Star selection ... (42:54) Our grand Rhys Hoskins sales pitch
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Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti field your questions in a Mailbag Q&A episode, including a lengthy discussion on how to fix the illegal substance issue circulating across Major League Baseball.
(2:25) Foreign substances for pitchers ... (6:07) How to fix the substance issue ... (10:27) Being on the IL during a brawl ... (11:37) Will's best Clay Buchholz story ... (17:55) How can MLB advertise their players better? ... (24:05) Thoughts on the extra-innings runner rule? ... (27:20) Cubs and Rays are rolling
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11-year minor league veteran, actor, and YouTube influencer Cody Decker brings the energy and pranks to join Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti for what might be the most comical episode yet. Also, Cody and Will play "Buy or Bull$hit."
(4:49) Greatest minor league hitter ever? ... (8:40) Best baseball prank of all-time ... (11:01) Convinced Jeff Francoeur one of his teammates was deaf ... (15:17) How they really wanted to tell Francoeur he wasn't deaf ... (18:03) Favorite minor league prank ... (21:54) Dress codes in the minor leagues ... (29:37) Quick hitters/Favorite Teammate ... (34:14) Buy or Bullshit: Baseball Analytics Edition ... (42:34) Worst baseball stadium?
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Tony La Russa has now said he didn't have a problem with the Twins throwing at Yermin Mercedes. Should the White Sox fire their first place manager? One thing is for sure, Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti are FIRED UP! Plus, we have Brooksy's Best Bets for Wednesday, May 19.
(0:54) Tony La Russa's comments after Twins threw behind Mercedes ... (1:12) Should La Russa be fired? ... (5:52) How La Russa is losing his locker room ... (8:00) Brooksy's Best Bets for Wednesday ... (9:02) Shohei Ohtani a great bet ... (11:27) Jake Arrieta's perfect betting line ... (12:20) Brooksy's Lock of the Day.
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Ah, the unwritten baseball rule debates are back for yet another season. Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti discuss the backlash that resulted from Yermin Mercedes' 3-0 home run. Then they discuss eight hitters who deserve more attention, including two deep dives.
(4:03) Rowdy Roundup ... (5:58) Shohei Ohtani or Tatis? Acuna? Soto? Trout? ... (9:27) Pujols' impact on Dodgers ... (13:24) Yermin Mercedes 3-0 swing, unwritten rules ... (16:54) Why Manny Machado's slide was clean ... (20:11) Mets getting reinforcements ... (24:10) 8 hitters who deserve more attention ... (25:36) How to pitch to Ronald Acuna ... (32:39) Broosky breaks down Vladdy Jr.'s swing.
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After Jeff Passan reported the Oakland Athletics could start exploring relocation possibilities, Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti detail 10 cities that could all potentially serve as a new home for the franchise.
(1:38) Oakland A's relocation details ... (3:18) Mariners calling up two top prospects ... (6:08) MLB COVID-19 updates ... (7:02) Buster Posey back to MVP form? ... (8:33) Mike Trout and Byron Buxton decrease launch angles ... (11:25) Drew Robinson's story gets even better ... (13:56) Top landing spots for Oakland A's ... (15:14) Problems with A's in San Jose ... (16:08) Las Vegas A's? ... (18:15) Texas could support another team ... (14:49) Portland deserves an MLB team ... (21:48) Nashville could be the best option? ... (24:27) Relocation predictions ... (26:40) Unrealistic, but would-be-awesome landing spots
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Will Middlebrooks is giving away free money. These are his best MLB bets for Tuesday, May 11.
(1:45) Why Orioles vs. Mets is a great bet ... (6:05) Phillies could be easy money ... (7:00) Angels vs. Astros first-five bet, explanation ... (8:58) Red Sox a good run line bet ... (10:53) Yankees bets ... (13:30) Brooksy's Lock of the Day.
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Now that Albert Pujols has been released, who should sign him? Or, should he hang up the cleats for good? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti list 5 teams (plus a couple more) who should consider signing the Hall of Fame-bound first baseman.
(1:25) Albert Pujols release details ... (4:21) Pujols want to continue playing ... (6:20) The dumbest rule in baseball ... (8:58) Why Francisco Lindor's slump is over ... (10:51) David Ortiz on hitting in today's game ... (15:59) Tony La Russa's BIG managerial mistake ... (19:51) Astros-Yankees reaction ... (26:05) Pujols to New York or Chicago? ... (28:00) A reunion with the Cardinals ... (28:15) NL teams that should consider Pujols ... (31:25) Does Pujols have anything left?
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Will Middlebrooks details the money lines and best bets for the Thursday slate of MLB games. It's free money here, people.
(2:30) Minor League Baseball begins ... (3:45) Brooksy's Best Bets ... (6:39) Indians-Royals best bet ... (7:55) Pirates vs. Padres money line, bet ... (9:33) Rays vs. Angels best bet ... (12:08) A's vs. Blue Jays a good bet ... (14:01) Bonus pick 'em.
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Who has been the most impressive team this season? Most surprising player? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti talk through a rocking week of MLB action. They also pick their most disappointing and surprising teams and players through the first month of the season.
(1:10) Mets-Phillies non-home run by Rhys Hoskins ... (6:15) Dustin May injury ... (9:12) The worst pitcher injury of the season ... (11:45) Max Scherzer's baby-making complete game ... (14:37) Breaking dog news ... (16:08) Most impressive players so far ... (21:20) This NL Central team has been the most impressive ... (23:08) Most surprising players so far; Red Sox ... (28:11) Mariners bullpen ... (28:34) San Francisco Giants biggest surprise ... (31:04) White Sox, Michael Kopech ... (31:28) Most disappointing players both play in New York ... (35:59) Yankees play uninspired baseball ... (39:21) Way-too-early MVP picks.
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2021 adjustments? Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti detail 5 players who changed their batting stances significantly this season, including Joey Votto and Cody Bellinger. Will breaks down why these hitters may have made these alterations and what impact they are making so far.
(4:07) Worst umpire call of the year in Brewers game ... (8:47) Robot umpires in MLB? ... (11:57) Can Mike Trout hit .400 this year? ... (18:30) Fair for Mets fans to boo Francisco Lindor ... (24:01) Batting stance changes ... (24:13) Cody Bellinger ... (30:48) Joey Votto ... (36:08) Kyle Schwarber ... (37:34) Wil Myers ... (42:13) Omar Narvaez.
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Current MLB analyst and former Oakland A's pitcher Dallas Braden jumps onboard with Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti to detail the reasons behind the Oakland A's 13-game winning streak and why it came to an end on Sunday. Will and Danny discuss the Tatis-Bauer feud, Padres-Dodgers series two recap.
(2:21) Rowdy Roundup ... (2:55) Padres-Dodgers is a rivalry ... (4:35) Fernando Tatis Jr. trolls Trevor Bauer ... (7:23) National impact of Padres-Dodgers ... (9:07) Dave Roberts takes exception...Did Tatis peep signs? ... (17:23) Dallas Braden ... (25:22) Oakland A's winning streak ends ... (27:24) Most underrated player in Oakland? ... (33:01) Ohtani batting practice story ... (49:30) Danny's Daddy of the Week.
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16-year MLB veteran and current Dodgers pregame/postgame analyst Jerry Hairston Jr. joins Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti for a preview of the second round of Padres-Dodgers. What adjustments does each club need to make? Who who'd you take in a brawl?
(3:30) Why Padres-Dodgers is a feud, not a rivalry ... (5:43) Biggest difference between playing in San Diego and Los Angeles? ... (9:06) Explaining Fernando Tatis Jr.'s early struggles and playing through injury ... (11:27) Jerry Hairston Jr. sustained the same injury as Tatis Jr. and had surgery ... (13:57) Series pitching matchups ... (14:11) "Julio Urias might be the Dodgers best pitcher." ... (17:06) Jerry's most uncomfortable at-bat? Roy Halladay ... (20:07) Must-hear Derek Jeter story ... (21:54) Who would you rather have: Dodgers-Padres edition ... (27:44) What makes Mookie Betts the best right fielder in baseball ... (32:37) Dodgers-Padres Fight Night: Will and Jerry nominate two players from each team to fight in a ring ... (36:21) 3 players Jerry Hairston Jr. wants next to him in a brawl ... (36:43) The scariest baseball human of all-time? Vicente Padilla ... (38:21) Jonny Gomes the ultimate brawl teammate.
Follow WAKE and RAKE Podcast on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube: @WakeandRakepod
Danny Vietti, host: @dannyvietti
Will Middlebrooks, host: @middlebrooks
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Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti breakdown everything from the thrilling Dodgers-Padres series. Should the Padres feel good about themselves? Should the Dodgers be worried?
(3:11) MLB Week Roundup ... (7:57) Did the Padres actually outplay the Dodgers? ... (10:05) Jurickson Profar and Clayton Kershaw catcher's interference beef ... (15:30) Mookie Betts play of the year candidate ... (18:40) Are the Yankees a bad baseball team? ... (23:55) Oakland A's are streaking ... (30:43) Believer or Non-Believer? ... (31:31) Should we believe in the Mariners? ... (34:08) Why Will is not jumping on the Red Sox bandwagon yet ... (44:01) Why Will and Danny both like the Phillies ... (47:15) Giants are the Red Sox of the West Coast ... (50:39) Daddy of the Week
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Alanna Rizzo of MLB Network joins Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti to preview the highly-anticipated Dodgers-Padres series this upcoming weekend.
(1:22) Dodgers-Padres series preview ... (1:45) Is it a rivalry? ... (8:31) How much are the Dodgers players paying attention to the Padres? ... (11:15) Projected pitching matchups ... (14:18) Who has the better lineup? ... (20:29) Who has the better bullpen ... (23:57) Alanna on what makes the Dodgers organization so uniquely great ... (28:33) Who has the better starting rotation? ... (32:00) Does San Diego or Los Angeles have the best food? Best beaches? Best stadium? ... (40:29) Series predictions.
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Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti are back to discuss the confrontation between Willson Contreras and the Milwaukee Brewers. They also answer your questions with a mailbag Q&A.
(2:20) MLB memorabilia giveaway winner ... (3:39) Willson Contreras takes on the entire Brewers team ... (7:20) Mailbag Questions ... (7:26) Biggest overreaction of the season so far? ... (11:57) Will's most entertaining on-base conversation he ever had? ... (14:50) One rule change we want to see in MLB ... (18:10) Do MLB players study umpires before a game? ... (21:59) Who is the biggest threat to the Astros in the AL West?
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Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti discuss the biggest storylines from this past week in baseball, including Michael Conforto's hit by pitch, good news on Fernando Tatis Jr., and so much more. Mammoth Coolers discount code!
(0:58) Big Podcast News ... (2:53) Danny parties in a retirement community ... (5:10) Michael Conforto hit by pitch discussion ... (8:17) Joe Musgrove's no-hitter ... (9:32) Fernando Tatis Jr. update ... (13:10) Best Baseball Movies of All-Time ... (14:30) Trevor Bauer's sticky situation ... (28:10) Phillies-Braves blown call on Sunday Night Baseball ... (33:10) Will's best Joe West story ... (36:11) Ronald Acuna Jr. is playing on Mike Trout level ... (38:05) Aaron Judge's injury issues... (43:55) Most impressive team and player so far ... (47:51) Most disappointing team and player so far.
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Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti play 'Fact or Fiction' after the first week of games.
(2:01) Will's biggest takeaway for the first week ... (3:33) MLB memorabilia giveaway details ... (5:55) Is the Cincinnati Reds' hot start fact or fiction? ... (10:52) Will the Oakland A's continue to struggle? ... (14:30) What is up the Chicago Cubs offense? ... (21:59) Are the Orioles actually decent? ... (22:10) Angels are the real deal
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Dr. Jesse Morse of Sports Medicine & Regenerative Medicine at The Osteopathic Center joins the WAKE and RAKE podcast to discuss the partial torn labrum Fernando Tatis Jr. has suffered. He also discusses the potential for thoracic outlet syndrome with Trevor Rosenthal, Eloy Jimenez's torn pectoral, and more.
(1:25) Fernando Tatis Jr.'s injury explained; suggests he needs surgery ... (5:03) How Tatis likely suffered the injury ... (7:05) Timetable for Tatis' recovery ... (9:55) Long term effects of Tatis' injury ... (10:22) Trevor Rosenthal's potential for thoracic outlet syndrome, explained ... (12:30) Eloy Jimenez's 5-month recovery not likely ... (15:10) How diligent are team physicals? Kirby Yates and the Blue Jays ... (17:54) How FTJ's injury impacts the season for the Padres ... (21:03) Should Fernando Tatis Jr. play through the injury?
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Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti discuss MLB's decision to suspend Nicholas Castellanos after the Reds-Cardinals scuffle. (0:54) Castellanos suspension ... (3:48) Best bets for Tuesday's, Apr. 6 slate of games ... (8:14) Marcus Stroman season debut preview.
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Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti breakdown the biggest storylines from the Opening Weekend across Major League Baseball. (1:16) Red Sox look terrible ... (3:23) Was Rocco Baldelli right to take out Jose Berrios with a no-hitter intact? ... (10:18) Nicholas Castellanos and Yadier Molina brawl discussion, Will believes the hit by pitch was intentional ... (13:42) Will's Whiskey Reviews ... (16:22) Overreaction or Fair Reaction? ... (16:45) The worst team in baseball? ... (18:23) Fernando Tatis Jr. a defensive liability? ... (22:07) Shohei Ohtani the most valuable player right now? ... (32:44) Time to buy on the Philadelphia Phillies ... (37:39) Mailbag question and answer ... (42:28) Blue Jays the real deal?
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OPENING DAY is finally here! Will Middlebrooks and Danny Vietti dive into each division's over/under win totals for the season and provide the best value bets for World Series, MVP, and more ... (2:44) American League odds and predictions ... (19:16) National League odds and predictions ... (41:56) MVP and Cy Young future bets ... (52:00) Best game bets for MLB Opening Day ... (56:31) Buy or Sell? ... (1:20:17) World Series predictions.
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(0:00) Host Danny Vietti introduces the all new Wake and Rake podcast with World Series champion Will Middlebrooks. (0:31) Player guests, gambling, and countless minutes of baseball talk. The cuffs are off. The rules are out the window. A brand new dynamic coming to the baseball podcast world starting Thursday (Apr. 1).
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