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Baseball Connection

1,362 episodes - English - Latest episode: 19 days ago - ★★★★★ - 5 ratings

Your Dose of All Things Baseball

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Episodes

Reds Win 6th Straight | JT & Yoshida Beat Up Yankees | Acuna’s Chances for 40/40

June 17, 2023 11:47 - 9 minutes - 6.92 MB

The Cincinnati Reds have won 6 straight games and sit only half a game out of first place in the NL Central. Outstanding rookies have been the theme in Cincinnati this year, and Andrew Abbott is one of them. The rookie LHP has now thrown 17 2/3 scoreless innings to start his career. The Red Sox brought out the bats in a 15-5 rout of the Yankees. Justin Turner (2 HRs, double, 6 RBIs) and Masataka Yoshida (4 hits) led the way. Ronald Acuna Jr. has swiped 30 bases already. What are his chances ...

Trading the Reigning MVP? | Ohtani Does It All

June 16, 2023 14:58 - 10 minutes - 7.5 MB

Could the Cardinals trade the reigning NL MVP? Cody Bellinger has had a nice bounce-back season in Chicago but could he also be trade bait? We look at intriguing trade ideas for this summer. Shohei Ohtani is making a case to earn the biggest contract we've ever seen. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Correa Blasts Walk-Off | A’s Extend Win Streak | Gunnar Heats Up

June 14, 2023 15:40 - 7 minutes - 5.02 MB

Carlos Correa hit a walk-off home run to win the game for the Twins. Correa has done this in the postseason before, but this was his first regular season walk-off homer. The A's have won 7 straight. Orioles 3B Gunnar Henderson has been on a tear lately, including a grand slam on Tuesday. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Shohei Takes AL HR Lead | Realmuto Hits for the Cycle

June 13, 2023 14:45 - 7 minutes - 5.53 MB

Shohei Ohtani is having a strong offensive season. After hitting 2 HRs to push LA over Texas on Monday, Ohtani now leads the American League with 20 HRs. J.T. Realmuto became the first Phillies player to hit for the cycle since 2004. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Cutch 2000 | Gunnar Heats Up | Are the Marlins Legit? | Key Divisional Matchups

June 12, 2023 13:23 - 12 minutes - 8.26 MB

Andrew McCutchen joined the 2000 hit club. Gunnar Henderson hit a mammoth blast onto Eutaw Street, continuing his strong month of June. The Marlins are playing winning baseball in 2023. Comeback wins, one-run wins... you name it. There's a different vibe in Miami this year. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Streaks, Walk-offs, and Milestones | The Next Braves Star? | Carroll Enters MVP Conversation

June 10, 2023 18:39 - 9 minutes - 6.23 MB

The Rays have won 7th straight. Not even the next-best team in baseball (Rangers) could slow them down on Friday. Will Brennan delivered a walk-off victory for the Guardians in the 14th inning. Atlanta has a steady stream of young talent. AJ Smith-Shawver is next in line. Pay attention to Corbin Carroll because he might mess and win MVP. All this (and more) on today's episode.

JoRam Crushes Milestone | Rays or Rangers? | Alonso Injured

June 09, 2023 15:46 - 7 minutes - 4.35 MB

Jose Ramirez hit three home runs in Thursday's victory over the Red Sox, including his #200 for his career. Who's the better team right now: Rangers or Rays? We'll find out this weekend as baseball's two best teams square off. Pete Alonso already has 22 home runs this season, but he'll now be sidelined for some time. Alonso has been placed on the injured list after taking a 97 mph fastball to the wrist. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Elly’s Electric Debut | Manoah Demoted | Rangers Danger

June 07, 2023 14:39 - 10 minutes - 6.07 MB

Elly De La Cruz made his MLB debut and showcased his electric power & speed combination. Cincinnati is suddenly a hotbed of young MLB talent. Marcus Semien has hit his way into the MVP conversation - a 25-game hit streak helps. Jacob deGrom will be getting Tommy John surgery and is out for the season. Alek Manoah has been demoted to rookie ball. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Abbott Delivers | What Happened to Manoah? | Arraez The Hit Machine

June 06, 2023 14:04 - 11 minutes - 6.7 MB

Reds top LHP prospect made threw 6 innings of one-hit ball in his MLB debut. Cincinnati has a steady stream of elite prospects making their way to the majors this season. Alek Manoah finished third in the AL Cy Young voting last year. This year, he's sporting a 6+ ERA. What happened? Luis Arraez rakes. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Jonathan India’s Bounceback | Key Callups | Brewers Infielders Set to Return

June 04, 2023 22:44 - 10 minutes - 7.27 MB

Sophomore slumps are common. Jonathan India dealt with one last year, but he's back in strong form this season. India's solid play means the Reds won't consider trading him this year. Key prospects have been called up in recent weeks. Reds LHP Andrew Abbott and Braves RHP AJ Smith-Shawver are the latest arms to watch for. Luis Urias and Willy Adames will return to the Brewers lineup in a few days. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Mookie Mashes | Bassitt Outduels Verlander | Bartolo Colon Retires

June 03, 2023 18:36 - 9 minutes - 6.3 MB

The Yankees and Dodgers squared off to open a weekend series in LA. Mookie Betts and Clayton Kershaw led the way in the opening game. The Dodgers poured on the runs and Kershaw went 7 strong innings. Chris Bassitt made his return to Citi Field in a grand fashion, outdueling Justin Verlander before flying home for the birth of his child. Bartolo Colon has officially retired. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Blue Jays Roll | Trouble Looming for Sale? | D-Backs Take First Place

June 02, 2023 14:06 - 8 minutes - 5.95 MB

Bo Bichette and Matt Chapman homered and Kevin Gausman racked up 11K's as the Blue Jays cruised to a complete team victory. Chris Sale left his start after a velocity drop. The Red Sox await results of his left shoulder MRI. Don't look now, but the D-Backs are in first place in the NL West. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Rangers Are For Real | Rookie SS Stays Hot | Ohtani & Trout Blast Off

June 01, 2023 12:20 - 10 minutes - 7.54 MB

The calendar has flipped to June and the season is in full swing. It's time to pay attention to division leaders. The Texas Rangers are for real this year. Red shortstop Matt McLain has swung a hot bat through his first two weeks in the majors. Ohtani and Trout combined for 3 mammoth blasts in Chicago as the Angels maintain their strong play. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Comeback Players Around The League | Judge Carries Yankees | Stroman Masterclass

May 30, 2023 15:40 - 10 minutes - 7.05 MB

There were a few big names returning the MLB action on Monday, including Liam Hendriks, Michael Soroka, and Royce Lewis. Aaron Judge's MVP skills were on full display yet again as he homered twice and robbed a HR in Seattle. Marcus Stroman tossed a one-hit shutout against the best team in baseball. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Oakland Woes | Mariners Heat Up | Murderer’s Row in Atlanta

May 29, 2023 13:45 - 10 minutes - 6.7 MB

The Oakland A's are on pace to lose the most games in a single season and the rest of the AL West is feasting on them. The Mariners have had the fourth best winning percentage among AL teams in May. Julio Rodriguez has heated up. Is there a more fearsome foursome than the top half of Atlanta's lineup right now? All this (and more) on today's episode.

Soroka Nears Return | How The D-Backs Became a Surprise Team

May 28, 2023 18:55 - 8 minutes - 4.99 MB

Michael Soroka is nearing a return the MLB action for the first time is almost 3 years. Soroka tore his right Achilles twice since last pitching for the Braves. The Arizona Diamondbacks are the National League's surprise team this year. They have elite pitching, speed, and defense. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Orioles Demote Rodriguez | Rays Welcome Back a Big Arm | Padres Stars Steal NY Spotlight

May 27, 2023 19:06 - 9 minutes - 6.43 MB

Grayson Rodriguez's first 10 MLB starts haven't gone well. The Orioles demoted the former top prospect to AAA after Friday night's shellacking from the Rangers. Rodriguez should figure things out and be up in the Majors again soon. The best team in baseball gets a big boost as Tyler Glasnow makes his season debut for the Rays. Soto and Tatis stole the spotlight at Yankee Stadium. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Phillies Storm Back | Neto Flirts With Cycle | The Giants’ Silent Weapon

May 25, 2023 15:22 - 7 minutes - 5.28 MB

The Phillies completed a comeback from a 5-run deficit and beat the D-Backs 6-5 in 10 innings. Zach Neto was playing college baseball one year ago. Today, he's flirting with cycles in the big leagues. The Giants have an on-base machine leading off; not many people have noticed just how good he's been. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Alvarez & Astros Stay Hot | Better Baseball in Baltimore | Homers Fly League-Wide

May 23, 2023 14:40 - 6 minutes - 3.73 MB

The Astros won their 8th straight game. They brought out the bats on Monday against Corbin Burnes and the Brewers. Yordan Alvarez led the way with 2 HRs including a grand slam. Freddie Freeman rakes regardless of where he plays. He gave Braves fans a reminder. The Baltimore Orioles have the second best record in baseball. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Acuna’s Power & Speed Combo | Orioles Like Comebacks | Yandy & Gorman Stay Hot

May 21, 2023 17:37 - 8 minutes - 4.81 MB

Ronals Acuna Jr. is the early frontrunner for NL MVP, thanks to his elite power-speed skillset. The new rules have made it easier to steal and Acuna is taking full advantage. The Orioles earned another comeback victory as the AL East continues to be a dogfight. Yandy Diaz and Nolan Gorman stayed hot with HRs. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Freeman Hits 300th HR | Judge Owns Toronto | Weekend Preview

May 19, 2023 14:57 - 10 minutes - 7.89 MB

Freddie Freeman joined the 300 HR and he did it in grand fashion. The Cardinals blasted 7 HRs including 2 each from Willson Contreras and Nolan Gorman. Aaron Judge wrapped up a big series in Toronto where he homered 4 times. Mike Trout's slump is over and we also discuss the Red Sox upcoming visit to a longtime friend in San Diego. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Walk-Off Wednesday | Astros, Blue Jays, and Mets Come Alive

May 18, 2023 12:50 - 9 minutes - 6.92 MB

Wednesday featured walk-off hits across the league, including Kyle Tucker hit a walk-off single to give Houston their 4th consecutive win. Danny Jansen (Blue Jays) and Pete Alonso (Mets) blasted walk-off homers. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Rocker Needs Tommy John | Rays Tattoo Verlander | Judge Responds

May 17, 2023 13:28 - 10 minutes - 5.87 MB

Rangers prospect Kumar Rocker will be having Tommy John surgery. Rocker's career has been full of twists and turns the early going, but his future remains bright. Justin Verlander was booed off the mound in his Mets home debut as the Rays jumped on him early and often. Aaron Judge silenced boos in Toronto by hitting a huge go-ahead blast in the 8th inning. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Surprise Team in Power Rankings | Naylor In The Clutch | Series Previews

May 15, 2023 14:20 - 8 minutes - 6.32 MB

A new week brings a new set of Power Rankings. Tampa Bay remains on top but there's been a shakeup. A surprise team joins the Top 5. The Guardians are winning close games - Josh Naylor hit a go-ahead homer in the 8th inning for the third straight game. Ronald Acuna Jr. is playing at an MVP level again. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Miller’s Hot Start Continues | Kirilloff Keeps Crushing | World Series Hangover?

May 14, 2023 14:21 - 16 minutes - 11.8 MB

Julio Urias has answered the Dodgers' challenge to be their ace. Bryce Miller looks very comfortable in the Major Leagues. He's now thrown 19 innings through 3 starts with a 0.47 ERA. Why are the Astros struggling to gain momentum? All this (and more) on today's episode.

Cycle for Cedric | Arenado Shows Up | Burnes & Brewers Roll

May 13, 2023 22:46 - 5 minutes - 4.3 MB

The Orioles have been fun to watch this year and that continued on Friday when Cedric Mullins hit for the cycle. Randy Arozarena has been one of the best outfielders in the AL this season. Can Nolan Arenado turn his season around? All this (and more) on today's episode.

Casey Schmitt Like to Hit | Eovaldi Extends Scoreless Streak | Rays, Rays, Rays

May 12, 2023 12:01 - 8 minutes - 6.03 MB

Casey Schmitt is off to a hot start with the bat in his first 3 MLB games. Known for his glove, Schmitt has made a strong statement in the early going. Nathan Eovaldi tossed 8.2 scoreless innings against the Athletics. Eovaldi has the longest scoreless streak in baseball. Tampa Bay is the best team in baseball. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Giants Future SS Makes Splash | Diaz Delivers Hat Trick for Oakland | Rodriguez and Rutschman Show

May 10, 2023 16:18 - 10 minutes - 7.82 MB

Casey Schmitt is known for his glove but he wants us to know that he can hit too. Schmitt went deep in the second at-bat of the MLB debut. He might be the Giants' shortstop of the near future. A's rookie Jordan Diaz hit 3 home runs against the Yankees. Grayson Rodriguez and Adley Rustchman have a strong connection dating back to the early minor leagues and they're reunited at the MLB level. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Contreras Returns to Wrigley | Who is Masataka Yoshida? | AL West Surprises

May 09, 2023 16:06 - 8 minutes - 5.32 MB

Willson Contreras made his return to Wrigley Field for the first time as a Cardinal. Contreras got a warm welcome back but that quickly turned into boos after the game got underway. Contreras had a big day at the plate, leading the Cardinals to a 3-1 win. Masataka Yoshida is the talk of town in Boston. He's been the best rookie in baseball so far. The AL West looks very different this year with Texas leading the pack and the Astros struggling. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Rays Roar Back | Sophomore Slumps | Miller Time in Seattle

May 08, 2023 14:47 - 13 minutes - 10.5 MB

The Rays are baseball's top team right now. They're playing in a cutthroat AL East but still manage to stand in a league of their own. Sophomore slumps are common and both of last year's Rookie of the Year winners are slowly breaking out of theirs. The Mariners have introduced baseball to a young talent  named Bryce Miller. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Athletics Remember Vida Blue | Can White Sox Reverse Their Woes? | The Dark Knight Retires

May 07, 2023 21:45 - 11 minutes - 8.36 MB

Legendary Oakland Athletics pitcher Vida Blue passed away at the age of 73. Blue won MVP in his age-21 season and was part of an Athetics dynasty. The White Sox are showing some signs of life after a rough April but they'll have to do without Eloy Jimenez for 4-6 weeks. Matt Harvey announced his retirement. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Tatis Torments Kershaw | Randy Rakes | Red Sox Making Noise

May 06, 2023 15:23 - 10 minutes - 7.96 MB

Fernando Tatis hit 2 home runs off Clayton Kershaw and Yu Darvish tossed 6 2/3 innings with 1 earned run as the Padres beat the Dodgers. Randy Arozarena continued his hot start to the season with a home run and the Rays improved their home record to 18-2. Chris Sale looked vintage and Masataka Yoshida has a 15-game hitting streak. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Dodgers Stun Phillies | Ohtani Joins Babe | Flashy Wander Franco

May 04, 2023 17:41 - 7 minutes - 5.34 MB

The Dodgers staged a late comeback and stunned the Phillies. Bryce Harper bounced back and went 3-3 with a double and two walks. Shohei Ohtani notched his 500th career strikeout. Wander Franco knows how to have fun. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Bryce Miller Flirts With No-No in Debut | Orioles Put on Defensive Clinic

May 03, 2023 11:59 - 10 minutes - 7.6 MB

Bryce Harper returned to the Phillies lineup on Tuesday. He'll need some time to readjust. Bryce Miller carried a no-hitter into the seventh en route to a 10-strikeout performance in his MLB debut. Miller is the Mariners' #2 prospect. Bryce Elder continued his strong season for the Braves as he lead Atlanta to a 6-0 victory over Miami. The Orioles' bats have been strong this year but not their defense. Baltimore put on a defensive clinic in Kansas City with multiple highlight reel plays. All...

Major Harper Update | Vaughn Ends White Sox Losing Streak

May 01, 2023 13:53 - 11 minutes - 8.54 MB

Bryce Harper could rejoin the Phillies as early as Tuesday. He would be doing so with no minor league rehab games. Does this strategy make sense considering Harper also missed Spring Training? The White Sox losing streak finally came to an end. Andrew Vaughn's walk-off 3 run homer capped a 7-run comeback. All this on today's episode.

First Month All-Stars | Mexico City Slugfest

April 30, 2023 16:22 - 10 minutes - 8.13 MB

The first month of the season is in the books. Who would the All-Star starters be if the All Star Game was today? It turns out that 7,300 feet of elevation will do wonders for slugging percentages. The Padres and Giants combined for 11 HRs in a slugfest in Mexico City. All this (and more) on today's episode.

J-Hey Day in LA | Air Castellanos | Baseball’s Best Hitter Isn’t Who You Think

April 29, 2023 17:57 - 9 minutes - 7.14 MB

Jason Heyward had himself a fine day for the Dodgers on Friday with 2 hits, 2 RBIs, and strong defense. How long will the Mookie Betts shortstop experiment last? Nick Castellanos' home run robbery was the highlight of the night during the World Series rematch in Houston. It's time to stop beating around the bush and recognize baseball's best hitter. All this (and more) on today's episode.

The NL Runs Through Pittsburgh? | Ohtani Flirts With Cycle | Weekend Preview

April 28, 2023 12:12 - 8 minutes - 6.01 MB

The Pirates are the biggest surprise in baseball. They have the best record in the NL at 18-8 and are beating tough opponents. How did they get here? Shohei Ohtani came close to hitting for the cycle in the same game he was the starting pitcher. Ohtani's bat has been heating up lately. Marquee matchups are on the schedule this weekend. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Reynolds Finds Home in Pittsburgh | Rays’ Home Streak Ends | Kelenic Stays Hot

April 26, 2023 12:12 - 13 minutes - 10 MB

Bryan Reynolds and the Pirates agreed to an 8-year, $106.75 million extension. After years of trade rumors, Reynolds has found a deal to his liking and will stay in Pittsburgh for the foreseeable future. The Astros beat the Rays, ending Tampa Bay's home win streak. Jarred Kelenic is still mashing. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Masataka Yoshida Flexes | The Vladdy & Gausman Show | Pirates Win 7th Straight

April 24, 2023 14:45 - 8 minutes - 6.37 MB

Masataka Yoshida hit 2 HRs including a grand slam.... in one inning. Vlad Jr. and Kevin Gausman lifted the Blue Jays over the Yankees. Gausman racked up 11 strikeouts as his dominant season continues. The Pirates won their 7th straight game by sweeping the Reds. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Adolis Pops Off | The Slugger Who Terrorizes Boston | Bryce Harper Update

April 23, 2023 12:15 - 9 minutes - 6.54 MB

Adolis Garcia went 5-5 with 3 HRs and 2 doubles as the Rangers routed the A's 18-3 on Saturday. The A's are the worst team in baseball this year and it's going to be a long year in Oakland. There is one slugger who continually mashes against Red Sox pitching and he shows no sign of slowing. Bryce Harper's return might be coming sooner than expected. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Ohtani Stays Stingy | Smyly Flirts With Perfection | Alonso Slugs Away

April 22, 2023 11:48 - 9 minutes - 7.04 MB

Shohei Ohtani tossed a gem on Friday night as he lowered his MLB-best ERA to 0.64. It's been 11 years since we've seen an MLB perfect game. We'll have to keep waiting. Drew Smyly flirted with a perfecto but it was broken up by a swinging bunt in the 8th inning. Pete Alonso's power and Joey Lucchesi's strong return to a big league mound lifted the Mets. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Liam Hendricks Update | Mets In Tough Spot | Mookie at SS

April 22, 2023 00:52 - 5 minutes - 4.26 MB

Liam Hendricks announced that he is cancer free. The White Sox closer will now begin ramping up towards a return to the mound. The Mets will have to navigate Max Scherzer's 10-game suspension by relying heavily on David Peterson and Tylor Megill. Mookie Betts made his first MLB start at shortstop. What can't Mookie do? All this (and more) on today's episode.

Scherzer Facing Suspension? | A’s Moving to Vegas | Tatis Set to Return

April 20, 2023 14:00 - 10 minutes - 7.84 MB

Max Scherzer was ejected for a foreign substance violation on Wednesday. Scherzer says he was using a legal substance (rosin). MLB will review the situation and determine if Scherzer will get a 10-game suspension. Don't look now but Brandon Nimmo leads the NL in WAR. Fernando Tatis Jr. is making his return to San Diego. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Kershaw Earns 200th Win | Strider Racks Up K’s | Why Hunter Greene’s Deal is a Bargain

April 19, 2023 11:18 - 13 minutes - 10.3 MB

Clayton Kershaw added another milestone to his Hall of Fame resume as he secured his 200th career win on Tuesday. Spencer Strider is the best strikeout pitcher in baseball right now and the Braves have won 8 straight. Hunter Greene agreed to a 6-year, $53 million extension with the Reds. Greene's deal will soon prove to be a bargain for Cincinnati. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Braves Surge Ahead | Castillo Shoves for Seattle | Why Prospect Rankings Matter

April 17, 2023 13:42 - 11 minutes - 8.67 MB

Are the Braves the new hottest team in baseball? Atlanta sits atop this week's Power Rankings. Giancarlo Stanton landed on the IL with a hamstring strain. How many games per year will he average for the rest of his potential Hall of Fame career? Luis Castillo flirted with perfection but settled with 7 shutout innings and 9 strikeouts. Top prospect rankings matter more than you may think. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Jackie Robinson Day Recap | Tatis Comeback Pending | Javy Baez Turnaround?

April 16, 2023 18:30 - 7 minutes - 6 MB

Major League Baseball celebrated Jackie Robinson Day across the league. All players wore 42 in honor of the American hero. The Padres are holding steady for now but they have more help on the way soon. Fernando Tatis Jr. is wrapping up his suspension and will rejoin the Padres on Thursday. The Rangers are first in the AL West but the Astros sent young righty Hunter Brown to the mound in response. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Bichette Marks Milestone | Kelenic’s Breakout Season | Oakland Woes

April 15, 2023 17:21 - 10 minutes - 7.96 MB

Bo Bichette and the Blue Jays handed the Rays their first loss of the season. Bichette was 5-5 and collected his 500th career hit. Jarred Kelenic is having the breakout we've all been waiting for. It's going to be a long year in Oakland. A's pitchers walked 17 batters in one game. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Rays Win 13th Straight | Baltimore Boys Hit Bombs | Twins Ambush Yankees

April 14, 2023 14:32 - 8 minutes - 6.86 MB

The Rays have won 13 straight games to start the season - the longest such streak since 1987. Adley Rutschman hit a walk-off HR for the Orioles. Baltimore is the most fun team in baseball right now. The Twins hit back-to-back-to-back home runs as part of a 9-run first inning in the Bronx. All this (and more) on today's episode.

Happ Takes Hometown Discount | Muncy The Giant Slayer

April 13, 2023 12:44 - 11 minutes - 8.69 MB

Ian Happ and the Cubs have agreed to a 3-year, $61 million extension. Happ was set to be a free agent after this season where he likely would've earned more. Chicago has secured several key pieces on their roster. Max Muncy continued to torment the Giants with 2 more home runs on Wednesday. Muncy is now tied for the league lead in RBIs. All this (and more) on today's episode.