Baseball Connection
1,362 episodes - English - Latest episode: 18 days ago - ★★★★★ - 5 ratingsYour Dose of All Things Baseball
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed
Episodes
Trevor Bauer Reinstated | Rogers Twins Team Up in SF | Conforto Returns
December 23, 2022 21:44 - 12 minutes - 6.97 MBTrevor Bauer's suspension has been reduced to 194 games and he's been immediately reinstated Bauer is eligible to pitch on Opening Day 2023. What happened? Who will Bauer pitch for next if the Dodgers release him? The Giants went into the offseason expecting to make major splashes but failed to do so. However, they did just sign some upside players in Taylor Rogers and Michael Conforto. All this (and more) on today's episode.
Correa’s Deal With Giants Falls Apart | Mets Swoop In
December 21, 2022 15:12 - 6 minutes - 5.2 MBCarlos Correa will no longer become a San Francisco Giant. The Giants did not like what they saw in Correa's physical examination, so the deal could not be finalized. Correa jumped back onto the open market and quickly struck a deal with the Mets for 12-years, $315 million (pending physical examination). What exactly is going on?
Big Day In Chicago | Swanson To Cubs | Benintendi to White Sox
December 18, 2022 15:11 - 13 minutes - 9.6 MBDansby Swanson has agreed to a 7-year, $177 million deal with the Chicago Cubs. Swanson will get more money than many expected, in large part due to a strong shortstop class this year. Swanson has reached a new level in recent years and we have reason to believe he'll sustain it. The White Sox signed Andrew Benintendi to a 5-year, $75 million deal. All this (and more) on today's episode.
Yankees Sign Rodon | Cashman Silences Doubters?
December 16, 2022 11:57 - 6 minutes - 3.59 MBCarlos Rodon has agreed to a 6-year, $162 million deal with the Yankees. Rodon was the last elite pitcher remaining on the free agent market. The two-time All-Star will be their number 2 arm to start the season and is expected to carry a heavy load. After criticism regarding their lack of spending, the Yankees won the bidding for two elite free agents this offseason. Only one big free agent remains in baseball. All this (and more) on today's episode.
Correa Chooses Giants | How Much Will Dansby Get?
December 14, 2022 13:45 - 8 minutes - 4.85 MBCarlos Correa has agreed to a 13-year, $350 million deal with the San Francisco Giants. Correa lands the long-term deal he's been looking for and is bringing his elite offense/defense combination to the Bay Area. Dansby Swanson is the last big free agent shortstop remaining. All this on today's episode.
Mets Continue Spending Spree | How Luxury Tax Works | Manaea to SF
December 12, 2022 11:46 - 10 minutes - 7.63 MBThe Mets rounded out their rotation by signing Japanese righthander Kodai Senga to a 5-year, $75 million deal. Senga's repertoire includes a 101-mph fastball and filthy splitter. Mets owner Steve Cohen is facing a $105 million luxury tax bill, larger than the payroll of 11 teams. Sean Manaea signed a 2-year, $25 million deal with the Giants. All this (and more) on today's episode.
Why Some Big Market Teams Act Cheap | Retaining Homegrown Stars
December 10, 2022 13:31 - 13 minutes - 9.82 MBAs time goes on, the price of acquiring marquee free agents increases. This is normal and the revenue of MLB teams are also increasing. Some teams, like the Red Sox, have changed strategies in recent years and are suddenly pinching pennies when it comes to payroll. Why is that? Was it a smart move to let their franchise player (Xander Bogaerts) leave? Other teams like the Mets and Phillies are doing just the opposite. All this (and more) on today's episode.
Hot Stove Blazes | Judge, Verlander, and Turner Sign Big Deals
December 07, 2022 15:26 - 12 minutes - 7.04 MBSeveral big names are off the market as the offseason news comes flying in. Aaron Judge agreed to a 9-year, $360 million deal with the Yankees. Verlander is headed to the Mets for 2 years, $86.6 million. Trea Turner is the Phillies new shortstop for the price of $300 million over 11 years. What's next on the hot stove? All this (and more) on today's episode.
Fred McGriff Elected to Hall of Fame
December 05, 2022 11:46 - 6 minutes - 3.53 MBAt long last, Fred McGriff has been elected to the Hall of Fame. It's an overdue selection for The Crime Dog, but McGriff will finally be recognized as one of the best first baseman in baseball history. He received was a unanimous selection by the Contemporary Baseball Era Players Committee. McGriff played 19 seasons with the Blue Jays, Padres, Braves, Rays, Cubs, and Dodgers. He tallied 493 career home runs.
Can Players Force Trades? | Judge’s Price Climbs Higher | Orioles Add Pitching
December 04, 2022 15:22 - 11 minutes - 6.6 MBAn All-Star outfielder has requested a trade. How often does this work and which side has the most leverage? Aaron Judge's price keeps climbing higher. How much will it take to sign the MVP? The Orioles were one of baseball's biggest surprises in 2022, as they finished with a winning record. More help is on the way to Baltimore. All this (and more) on today's episode.
Everything’s Bigger in Texas | Rangers Sign Jacob deGrom
December 03, 2022 11:07 - 10 minutes - 6.25 MBThe first major domino of the Hot Stove season has fallen. Jacob deGrom has signed with the Texas Rangers. It's a 5-year, $185 million contract with a full no-trade clause. This deal comes in well above projections and sets the market for all elite pitchers. The Rangers continue spending heavily as they seek to end their playoff drought. Were the Mets wise to let deGrom go? All this on today's episode.
Astros Sign José Abreu | Clevinger to Chicago | Miggy’s Last Ride
November 29, 2022 13:47 - 9 minutes - 5.2 MBThe Astros have added one of the best hitters in the game. Houston signed José Abreu to a 3-year, $58.5 million deal. Abreu is entering his age 36 season but remains one of the most feared hitters in baseball. The White Sox signed Mike Clevinger. Miguel Cabrera announced that 2023 will be his final season. All this on today's episode.
Top 10 ”Old Guy” Free Agents
November 27, 2022 18:23 - 8 minutes - 6.35 MBFather time catches up to every athlete but some still perform at a high level into their mid-30s and beyond. We take a look at the top "old guy" free agents available this winter.
Bryce Gets Tommy John Surgery | Shortstop Market Overview
November 25, 2022 17:44 - 10 minutes - 7.21 MBBryce Harper underwent Tommy John Surgery. He is expected to return to DH duties around mid-season in 2023 with a possible return to right field by season-end. This opens up playing time for some of the lesser-known Phillies outfielders. The Twins have made multiple offers to Carlos Correa. What will it take to bring him back to Minnesota? The Brewers are looking to extend Willy Adames. All this (and more) on today's episode.
Phillies Make Big Commitment | Comeback Players of the Year | Judge Homecoming
November 23, 2022 15:12 - 8 minutes - 6.29 MBThe Phillies have signed Dave Dombrowski (President of Baseball Operations) to a contract extension that will keep him in Philadelphia through 2027. The Angels acquired Hunter Renfroe to bolster their outfield. Albert Pujols and Justin Verlander each won Comeback Player of the Year. All this (and more) on today's episode.
Why Yankees Should Sell High | Padres’ Big Target | Trade Rumor Roundup
November 21, 2022 19:55 - 9 minutes - 6.9 MBThe Mariners have their eye on Gleyber Torres. The Yankees should entertain such a trade because they have plenty of middle-infield talent coming up through the minors already. The Padres are interested in Jose Abreu to fill their vacancy at 1B. All this (and more) on today's episode.
Bellinger’s Fall From Grace | Dodgers Eyeing Judge? | Upcoming Bidding Wars
November 20, 2022 13:30 - 8 minutes - 6.18 MBCody Bellinger won NL MVP just three years ago. Now he's a free agent after being let go by the Dodgers. Is this the biggest fall from grace we've seen in recent memory? Aaron Judge will have plenty of suitors this winter. It seems like the Dodgers are ready to spend big for Judge. Jacob deGrom is a free agent this winter. Can the Mets keep him? All this (and more) on today's episode.
Verlander & Alcantara Win Unanimous Cy | Goldschmidt & Judge Win MVPs
November 18, 2022 14:04 - 12 minutes - 8.96 MBJustin Verlander and Sandy Alcantara were unanimous Cy Young winners in the AL and NL, respectively. Verlander takes home his third Cy Young and Alcantara wins his first. Sandy is the third Dominican-born pitcher to win the award. After 12 brilliant years in the MLB, Paul Goldschmidt has finally won the NL MVP. Aaron Judge won AL MVP and the timing couldn't be any more perfect. All this (and more) on today's episode.
Rookie of the Year Winners | Julio Rodriguez & Michael Harris II
November 16, 2022 00:52 - 5 minutes - 3.95 MBJulio Rodriguez is the 2022 American League Rookie of the Year. Michael Harris II is the 2022 National League Rookie of the Year. Who else was in the running and what makes each player so special?
Awards Preview | Strider or Harris?
November 14, 2022 11:53 - 6 minutes - 4.98 MBAwards Week is upon us. We'll find out about the Rookie of the Year, Manager of the Year, Cy Young and MVP results this week. We know who some of the winners will be but a few question remain? Who will take home NL Rookie of the Year? A strong case can be made for either Braves teammate, Michael Harris or Spencer Strider. All this (and more) on today's episode.
Kershaw Isn’t Leaving Yet | Verlander Hits Free Agency | Braves Face Salary Crunch
November 12, 2022 14:36 - 7 minutes - 5.53 MBClayton Kershaw will return to LA on a one-year deal for 2023 worth approximately $20 million. It comes as no surprise. Kershaw is still effective when healthy but we can't expect him to be durable anymore. Justin Verlander declined his player option and has become a free agent. Houston should want him back. Winning gets expensive over time and the Braves are seeing that now. All this (and more) on today' episode.
Early Offseason Trade | Hank Aaron Awards | The Silent Superstar
November 10, 2022 12:24 - 7 minutes - 4.3 MBThe Braves have traded Jake Odorizzi to the Rangers in exchange for LHP Kolby Allard. Both teams are hoping for upside in each player. Aaron Judge & Paul Goldschmidt won the Hank Aaron Awards in the AL and NL, respectively. The Hank Aaron Award is given to the best offensive performer in each league. All this (and more) on today's episode.
Shortstops Are Looking For Money | No Ohtani Trade | Award Finalists
November 08, 2022 14:52 - 8 minutes - 4.72 MBThe Red Sox say want to bring Xander Bogaerts back but a reunion seems unlikely given Bogaerts' likely asking price. Correa, Swanson, and Turner are other elite shortstops on the market this winter. The Angels GM has said they won't trade Shohei Ohtani this offseason Who are the finalists for each major award? All this (and more) on today's episode.
Diaz Signs Richest Reliever Deal | The Universal DH Saved Philly | Rodon Opts Out
November 07, 2022 11:50 - 9 minutes - 7.12 MBEdwin Diaz has agreed to a five-year, $102 million deal with the Mets - the first nine-figure deal ever signed by a reliever. Diaz will be near-term fixture in the ninth inning at Citi Field. Bryce Harper has been dealing with a torn UCL in his elbow since May. The newly-added designated hitter rule allowed Harper was able to play the rest of the season for the Phillies. Carlos Rodon opted out of his contract with the Giants and will become a free agent. All this (and more) on today's episod...
Astros Win World Series | Redemption at Last
November 06, 2022 18:40 - 5 minutes - 4.3 MBThe Houston Astros have won the World Series. It's their second championship in the past six years and they can now silence all doubters who've levied criticism since the fallout of their cheating scandal. Jeremy Peña was named World Series MVP. All this (and more) on today's episode.
Astros Return Home With a Lead | Gold Glove Winners
November 05, 2022 12:21 - 7 minutes - 5.32 MBThe Astros take a 3-2 series lead back to Houston as they look to close things out in Game 6. Can the Phillies score enough runs off Framber Valdez, who has been dominant all year long? We take a look at the Gold Glove winners for 2022. All this (and more) on today's episode.
World Series No-Hitter | Houston’s Formula To Pitching Success
November 03, 2022 13:56 - 6 minutes - 4.48 MBCristian Javier led the way for the Astros as he tossed the first 6 innings of a combined no-hitter. Just one day after their impromptu home run derby, the Phillies bats went cold and the series is now tied 2-2. This was only the second no-hitter in World Series history. Why doesn't anyone talk about Cristian Javier's strong career? Under-the-radar signings like him have been key to the Astros' pitching success.
HR Derby at the Bank | Phillies Blast McCullers in Game 3
November 02, 2022 11:44 - 4 minutes - 3.58 MBThe Phillies tagged Lance McCullers Jr. for five home runs in Game 3 of the World Series. McCullers was tipping his pitches and the Phillies hitters keyed in on that immediately. Ranger Suarez threw 5 shutout innings as the Phillies beat the Astros 7-0.
Framber Delivers Strong Outing | Bregman Stays Hot | Astros Tie Series
October 30, 2022 15:06 - 3 minutes - 2.86 MBFramber Valdez has been the Astros' most consistent starter all season long. You can expect him to throw a quality start or better each time out and he did just that in Game 2. Valdez threw 6.1 innings with 9 strikeouts and 1 earned run to help the Astros tie the World Series at one game apiece. The Series now heads back to Philadelphia for three straight.
Fightin’ Phils Stun Astros | World Series Game 1 Recap
October 29, 2022 14:01 - 5 minutes - 3.91 MBThe Phillies defeated the Astros 6-5 in Game 1 of the World Series. Houston was up 5-0 after three innings thanks to two Kyle Tucker homers. With Verlander on the mound, it looked like the Astros would cruise to victory. The Phillies had other ideas and immediately mounted a comeback. Strong bullpen work and a clutch homer from JT Realmuto put the Phillies on top.
World Series Preview | Harper Arrives | Verlander Seeks Redemption
October 28, 2022 21:33 - 6 minutes - 5.17 MBThe World Series is here. What are they top storylines to look out for ahead of Game 1? Can Justin Verlander shake his rough World Series reputation and get the Astros off to a strong start? The Phillies are underdogs, but their lineup has enough firepower to match Houston's. All this (and more) on today's episode.
One Last Ride For Wainwright | New Managerial Hires
October 27, 2022 11:07 - 8 minutes - 6.42 MBAdam Wainwright is coming back for one last year. Wainwright signed a one-year deal to pitch for the Cardinals in 2023. He will play in a key role in their pitching rotation. Bruce Bochy is back in the MLB as he's agreed to terms with the Rangers as their new manager. Expect big moves from Texas this winter. Skip Schumaker will be the Marlins next manager. All this (and more) on today's episode.
Yankees Should Buy Their Way Back To World Series
October 25, 2022 14:07 - 7 minutes - 5.54 MBFor the 13th year in a row, the Yankees will be watching the World Series instead of playing in it. The current ownership group is fiscally conservative, and that just might be the problem. Fortunately, there is elite talent available on the market this winter. We discuss how the Yankees can buy their way back to the World Series.
Phillies vs. Astros World Series | Peña & Harper Take LCS MVP Honors
October 24, 2022 15:05 - 4 minutes - 3.54 MBThe World Series will be played between the Phillies and Astros. This will be Philadelphia's first World Series appearance since they won it all in 2009. Bryce Harper took home NLCS MVP after delivering three game-winning hits in the series. The Astros swept the Yankees to punch a ticket to their fourth World Series in six years. Jeremy Peña won ALCS MVP.
Astros & Phillies Take Command | One Win Away From World Series
October 23, 2022 13:14 - 5 minutes - 3.75 MBThe Astros shutout the Yankees to take a commanding 3-0 series lead in the ALCS. New York has struggled offensively this series. Their bats will have to come alive in Sunday's elimination game against Lance McCullers Jr. The Phillies lineup erupted as they erased an early deficit and beat the Padres with a barrage of home runs and doubles. Philadelphia has a 3-1 series lead. Can they close it out in Game 5?
Segura Shines On Big Stage | Yankees’ Keys To Game 3
October 22, 2022 14:19 - 5 minutes - 3.86 MBJean Segura did it with both his bat and glove in the Phillies' 42 victory over the Padres. It took Segura 11 years to reach the postseason and he's clearly excited to be there. Gerrit Cole will take the ball for the Yankees in a pivotal Game 3 at home, but New York's offense will be crucial in turning this series around.
Valdez & Bregman Keeps Astros Undefeated | NLCS Game 3 Preview
October 21, 2022 14:47 - 4 minutes - 3.3 MBFramber Valdez and Alex Bregman lifted the Astros to a 3-2 victory in ALCS Game 2. How can the Yankees turn this series around? Because the Astros have such a potent offense, the Yankees will simply need to score more - lots of them. We also take a look head to NLCS Game 3.
Nola Brothers Face Off | Why 2-3-2 is a Bad Format | Verlander Bounces Back
October 20, 2022 14:21 - 7 minutes - 5.52 MBAaron and Austin Nola faced off in Game 2 of the NLCS. Austin's RBI single against his brother contributed to a big Padres win. The series heads to Philadelphia tied one game apiece. Best-of-seven series are great but MLB needs to adjust the format for better home field advantage. Justin Verlander and the Astros took down the Yankees in Game 1 of the ALCS. All this (and more) on today's episode.
Yankees Rock Guardians To Sleep | Schwarber & Harper Power Phillies
October 19, 2022 20:42 - 4 minutes - 3.39 MBThe Yankees beat the Guardians to advance to the American League Championship Series. Giancarlo Stanton & Aaron Judge hit homers to put the Yankees up for good in Game 5 of the ALDS. It will be a quick turnaround to Houston where the Astros await. Kyle Schwarber & Bryce Harper each homered to back Zach Wheeler's masterful outing in a Game 1 Phillies victory in the NLCS.
ALDS Finale Postponed | Cleveland’s Strategy | Phillies & Padres Preview
October 18, 2022 11:56 - 5 minutes - 3.86 MBThe ALDS finale will wait another day as the Guardians and Yankees were rained out in New York. The Yankees will throw Nestor Cortes on short rest. Who will pitch for the Guardians in this elimination game? The NLCS begins on Tuesday in San Diego. It'll include great storylines like the Nola brothers, former superstar teammates, and former superstar free agents all facing off.
Phillies & Padres Advance To NLCS | Astros Outlast Mariners | Guardians Walk It Off
October 16, 2022 21:56 - 5 minutes - 4.46 MBIt was an epic Saturday of playoff action with upsets all over. The Phillies defeated the defending World Series champs and there will be NLCS baseball in Philadelphia for the first time since 2010. They'll face the Padres, who upset the Dodgers in a wild comeback. The Guardians walked off on the Yankees and the Astros survived an 18-inning marathon in Seattle.
Guardians Tie Series | Phillies Offense Shows Out | Padres Push Dodgers To Brink
October 15, 2022 20:18 - 4 minutes - 3.53 MBThe Cleveland Guardians stole a game in New York as they silenced the Yankees bats. Aaron Judge looked rusty at the plate but they Yankees will need him to bounce back as this tied series shifts to Cleveland. The Phillies offense erupted against the Braves as Philadelphia enjoyed their first home playoff game since 2011. The Padres beat the Dodgers and are one game away from an epic upset. All this on today's episode.
Astros Take Care Of Business | Why Padres Must Win Game 3 | Carlos Correa Opts Out
October 14, 2022 11:59 - 7 minutes - 5.46 MBThe Astros have taken a commanding 2-0 lead in their best-of-five ALDS matchup with the Mariners. The Padres stole a game on the road but they're biggest test will be at home in Game 3 where the pitching matchup isn't in their favor. Carlos Correa has opted out of his contract with the Twins. Correa will try free agency again in search of a long term deal. All this (and more) on today's episode.
Yordan Saves The Day | Phillies Steal One in Atlanta | Division Series Begin
October 12, 2022 13:18 - 8 minutes - 5.83 MBYordan Alvarez hit a walk-off 3-run home run to save the day for the Houston Astros. The Astros were down all game long after the Mariners ambushed Justin Verlander. The Phillies stayed hot and beat the Braves after jumping out to an early lead. The Yankees and Dodgers won their opening matchups as well. We dive into every Division Series opener on today's episode.
Musgrove Stymies Mets | Braves Extend Strider | Chapman Done With Yankees?
October 10, 2022 14:18 - 6 minutes - 3.52 MBJoe Musgrove was on top of his game on Sunday night as he fired 7 scoreless innings of one-hit ball against the Mets. The Padres defeated the Mets and have advanced to the NLDS where they'll face the Dodgers. The Braves have extended rookie RHP Spencer Strider with a 6-year, $75 million deal. The Yankees left Aroldis Chapman of their ALDS roster after he failed to show up for a workout. All this on today's episode.
Guardians Survive Pitcher’s Duel | Mariners Comeback | Wild Card Saturday Recap
October 09, 2022 15:16 - 8 minutes - 6.87 MBThe Mariners were down 8-1 to the Blue Jays before completed the second-largest comeback in playoff history. Seattle advances to the ALDS and will face Houston. There was a pitcher's duel in Cleveland but Oscar Gonzalez sent the Guardians to the next round with one swing of the bat in the 15th inning. All this (and more) on today's episode.
Let The 2022 Playoffs Begin
October 09, 2022 00:13 - 56 minutes - 35.9 MBThe regular season is over and the playoffs are here! Which players deserve the major awards? Are the Angels superstars going to remain in Anaheim much longer? The Guardians are this year's underdog story and the Mets might be in trouble.
Playoff Time | Wild Card Predictions | Naylor Brothers Team Up
October 07, 2022 12:58 - 8 minutes - 4.98 MBThe playoffs are here. The Wild Card round begins with an action-packed day. Guardians vs. Rays, Phillies vs. Cardinals, Mariners vs. Blue Jays, and Padres vs. Mets. Which teams have the upper hand? All this (and more) on today's episode.
Judge Breaks AL HR Record | Braves Win NL East | Playoff Field Is Set
October 05, 2022 13:31 - 7 minutes - 6.12 MBAaron Judge now stands alone atop the American League HR record books. Judge hit his 62nd HR of the season to break Roger Maris' record. The Braves have won the NL East and the playoff field is now set. Justin Verlander tossed 5 no-hit innings with 10 strikeouts. Verlander finishes the season with a 1.75 ERA and will surely be the American Cy Young.
Judge Still Searching | McCullers’ Strong Return
October 04, 2022 23:03 - 4 minutes - 3.24 MBAaron Judge is still searching for the elusive 62nd homerun of his season. The clock is ticking. Will he get it? Lance McCullers Jr. missed most of the season recovering from a forearm strain he suffered last year. McCullers looked sharp in his final outing of the regular season. The Astros will lean on him in the playoffs.