http://www.baseballprospectus.com/blog/daily_podcast/ Effectively Wild: The Daily Baseball Prospectus Podcast en-us Copyright 2013 Thu, 23 May 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Thu, 23 May 2013 04:00:00 -0700 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss blindbergh@baseballprospectus.com (Ben Lindbergh) Ben Lindbergh A look back at last night's baseball with Ben Lindbergh and Sam Miller BP authors and editors Ben Lindbergh and Sam Miller review their observations about the previous night's baseball action and news. Ben Lindbergh blindbergh@baseballprospectus.com No http://www.baseballprospectus.com/images/bp_logo_podcast.pnghttp://www.baseballprospectus.com/blog/daily_podcast/BP authors and editors Ben Lindbergh and Sam Miller review their observations about the previous night's baseball action and news.144144 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20672 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20672 Ben and Sam talk about some recent conflicts between veterans and young players, then discuss Don Mattingly's comments about the Dodgers' lack of grit. Thu, 23 May 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 209: Veterans vs. Young Players/The Dodgers and Grit Ben and Sam talk about some recent conflicts between veterans and young players, then discuss Don Mattingly's comments about the Dodgers' lack of grit. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, dodgers, don mattingly, chemistry, grit, veterans, rookies http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20657 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20657 Ben and Sam answer listener emails about refunds for team losses, catcher receiving, defensive positioning, and more. Wed, 22 May 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 208: Refunds for Losses/More Catching Questions/DHs and Defensive Positioning/Most Pitchers in an Inning Ben and Sam answer listener emails about refunds for team losses, catcher receiving, defensive positioning, and more. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, emails http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20650 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20650 Ben and Sam discuss whether they've underrated Patrick Corbin, then talk about whether there's a bias against redheads in baseball. Tue, 21 May 2013 09:17:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 207: Reevaluating Patrick Corbin/Baseball and Redheads Ben and Sam discuss whether they've underrated Patrick Corbin, then talk about whether there's a bias against redheads in baseball. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, redheads, diamondbacks, patrick corbin, pitching http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20633 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20633 Ben and Sam talk about the circumstances under which they'd feel comfortable recommending that a manager be fired, then discuss different beliefs about hot streaks. Mon, 20 May 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 206: When Does it Make Sense to Fire Managers?/What We Think about Hot Streaks Ben and Sam talk about the circumstances under which they'd feel comfortable recommending that a manager be fired, then discuss different beliefs about hot streaks. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, managers, hot seat, hot streaks http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20603 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20603 Ben and Sam answers listener questions about catcher framing, a very unusual reliever, and cautionary MRIs. Fri, 17 May 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 205: Catcher Framing Questions/A Hypothetical Pitching Problem/Post-Start MRIs Ben and Sam answers listener questions about catcher framing, a very unusual reliever, and cautionary MRIs. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, catcher framing, bullpen, reliever, MRIs http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20589 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20589 Ben and Sam team up for a simulpodcast with Carson Cistulli of FanGraphs and FanGraphs Audio to discuss whether the Yankees have been lucky, the best way to watch baseball, and the value of old scouting reports. Thu, 16 May 2013 06:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 204: The Yankees and Luck/How We Watch Baseball/Consuming Scouting Reports Ben and Sam team up for a simulpodcast with Carson Cistulli of FanGraphs and FanGraphs Audio to discuss whether the Yankees have been lucky, the best way to watch baseball, and the value of old scouting reports. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, yankees, luck, watching baseball http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20581 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20581 Ben and Sam discuss listener emails about whether rising strikeout rates make defense less valuable, whether the worst teams should face off at the end of the year, and more. Wed, 15 May 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 203: Strikeouts and Defense/Shortest Pitching Careers/Novelty All-Star Games/World Series of Worst/Rooting Against No-Hitters Ben and Sam discuss listener emails about whether rising strikeout rates make defense less valuable, whether the worst teams should face off at the end of the year, and more. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20573 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20573 Ben and Sam talk about how a player's willingness to crash into walls affects their expectations for him, then discuss whether Albert Pujols can improve if he keeps playing. Tue, 14 May 2013 08:59:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 202: Bryce Harper Hits the Wall/Albert Pujols' Pain Ben and Sam talk about how a player's willingness to crash into walls affects their expectations for him, then discuss whether Albert Pujols can improve if he keeps playing. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, albert pujols, pain, bryce harper, outfield walls http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20556 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20556 Ben and Sam draft starting pitchers age 25 and under, then discuss whether there's any significance to the fact that we haven't seen a no-hitter yet this season. Mon, 13 May 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 201: Drafting Age-25-and-Under Starters/Still No No-Hitters Ben and Sam draft starting pitchers age 25 and under, then discuss whether there's any significance to the fact that we haven't seen a no-hitter yet this season. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, no-hitters, draft, starting pitchers http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20526 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20526 Ben and Sam talk to Sports on Earth Senior Writer Will Leitch about the evolution of baseball coverage and the fan's relationship with sports media. Fri, 10 May 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 200: Will Leitch on Media, Fans, and Media and Fans Ben and Sam talk to Sports on Earth Senior Writer Will Leitch about the evolution of baseball coverage and the fan's relationship with sports media. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, will leitch, media, sportswriting http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20512 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20512 Ben and Sam discuss the sunscreen scandal and how much clubhouse chemistry matters to the Astros. Thu, 09 May 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 199: Pitchers Putting on Sunscreen/The Astros and Clubhouse Chemistry Ben and Sam discuss the sunscreen scandal and how much clubhouse chemistry matters to the Astros. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, sunscreen, doctoring, pitchers, astros, rick ankiel, carlos pena http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20505 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20505 Ben and Sam answer emails about what it would look like if a hitter got the yips, what Starlin Castro could turn into, errors in sabermetric research, and more. Wed, 08 May 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 198: Hitters with the Yips/Power vs. Contact/Starlin Castro's Future/Reinhart-Rogoff and Sabermetrics Ben and Sam answer emails about what it would look like if a hitter got the yips, what Starlin Castro could turn into, errors in sabermetric research, and more. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, emails, podcast, yips, starlin castro, reinhart-rogoff http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20486 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20486 With All-Star voting officially underway, Ben and Sam make their incredibly premature picks, with Jason Wojciechowski joining them to settle any disputes. Tue, 07 May 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 197: Our Incredibly Premature All-Star Picks With All-Star voting officially underway, Ben and Sam make their incredibly premature picks, with Jason Wojciechowski joining them to settle any disputes. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, all-star game, all-stars, all-star voting http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20472 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20472 Ben and Sam discuss Scott Kazmir's win over the weekend, then talk about the Angels' outlook for the rest of this season and beyond. Mon, 06 May 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 196: The New Scott Kazmir/The Future of the Angels Ben and Sam discuss Scott Kazmir's win over the weekend, then talk about the Angels' outlook for the rest of this season and beyond. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, scott kazmir, indians, angels, albert pujols, josh hamilton http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20451 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20451 Ben and Sam discuss whether a pitcher's body language can cost him strikes, whether it's worth trading for relievers early in the season, a study about perceptions of steroid use, and whether a low BABIP is always unlucky. Fri, 03 May 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 195: Bad Body Language/Upgrading Bullpens/Steroids and the Children/BABIP and Bad Luck Ben and Sam discuss whether a pitcher's body language can cost him strikes, whether it's worth trading for relievers early in the season, a study about perceptions of steroid use, and whether a low BABIP is always unlucky. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, steroids, bullpen, BABIP, lucky, body language http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20438 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20438 Ben and Sam discuss whether the league will ever take steps to prevent extremely long games, then talk about what baseball would be like without playoffs. Thu, 02 May 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 194: Outlawing Endless Games/Would Baseball Be Better Without Playoffs? Ben and Sam discuss whether the league will ever take steps to prevent extremely long games, then talk about what baseball would be like without playoffs. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, playoffs, extra innings http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20426 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20426 Ben and Sam answer listener emails about whether good minor-league teams could beat bad major-league teams, the Braves and Ks, whether the Jays should regret letting John Farrell go, and more. Tue, 30 Apr 2013 23:50:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 193: AAA Teams vs. the Marlins and Astros/The Braves and Strikeouts/Pickoffs and Pitch Counts/John Farrell and the Jays/Non-Superstar HOFers Ben and Sam answer listener emails about whether good minor-league teams could beat bad major-league teams, the Braves and Ks, whether the Jays should regret letting John Farrell go, and more. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, emails, podcast http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20409 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20409 Ben and Sam discuss the news about Stephen Strasburg's forearm and talk about why Manny Machado's performance this season hasn't gotten more attention. Tue, 30 Apr 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 192: Stephen Strasburg's New Injury Scare/The Underhyped Manny Machado Ben and Sam discuss the news about Stephen Strasburg's forearm and talk about why Manny Machado's performance this season hasn't gotten more attention. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, stephen strasburg, injuries, orioles, nationals http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20396 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20396 Ben and Sam discuss how deep a hole the Blue Jays have dug, then talk about whether it's fair for people to gloat about the Diamondbacks' decision to trade Justin Upton based on what's happened so far this season. Mon, 29 Apr 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 191: The Significance of the Blue Jays' Slow Start/Justin Upton and Internet Gloating Ben and Sam discuss how deep a hole the Blue Jays have dug, then talk about whether it's fair for people to gloat about the Diamondbacks' decision to trade Justin Upton based on what's happened so far this season. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, blue jays, diamondbacks, justin upton http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20370 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20370 Ben and Will discuss the confusing career of Ike Davis, then talk about whether there are any prospects teams wouldn't trade straight up for Giancarlo Stanton. Fri, 26 Apr 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 190: The Ike Davis Enigma/Trading Prospects Straight Up for Stanton Ben and Will discuss the confusing career of Ike Davis, then talk about whether there are any prospects teams wouldn't trade straight up for Giancarlo Stanton. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, prospects, trades, giancarlo stanton, mets, ike davis http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20356 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20356 Ben and Paul talk to Corey Dawkins about Chad Billingsley's elbow, then discuss the Mariners' decision to start Robert Andino over Brendan Ryan and the state of Seattle's organization. Thu, 25 Apr 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 189: Should Chad Billingsley Have Had Surgery Sooner?/Brendan Ryan, Robert Andino, and the Mariners Ben and Paul talk to Corey Dawkins about Chad Billingsley's elbow, then discuss the Mariners' decision to start Robert Andino over Brendan Ryan and the state of Seattle's organization. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, brendan ryan, mariners, chad billingsley, tommy john surgery, elbow, defense, dodgers http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20342 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20342 Ben and Sam answer listener emails about whether PECOTA underestimates the Yankees, how to improve ERA, Coco Crisp the MVP candidate, and in-season stats vs. projections. Wed, 24 Apr 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 188: The Yankees and PECOTA/Earned Run Ratio/Least Likely MVP Candidates/When to Trust 2013 Stats Ben and Sam answer listener emails about whether PECOTA underestimates the Yankees, how to improve ERA, Coco Crisp the MVP candidate, and in-season stats vs. projections. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20333 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20333 Ben and Sam discuss the velocity losses of some of baseball's best starters, then talk about whether players should have prophylactic appendectomies. Tue, 23 Apr 2013 08:35:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 187: More About Velocity Loss/Baseball Players and Appendectomies Ben and Sam discuss the velocity losses of some of baseball's best starters, then talk about whether players should have prophylactic appendectomies. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, appendectomies, velocity, velocity loss http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20320 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20320 Ben and Sam discuss the short-lived success of starters without great stuff who rely on deception, then talk about Matt Harvey and the Blue Jays' use (or abuse) of the waiver system. Mon, 22 Apr 2013 09:20:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 186: Deceptive Starters/Matt Harvey's Improvement/The Blue Jays and Waiver Claims Ben and Sam discuss the short-lived success of starters without great stuff who rely on deception, then talk about Matt Harvey and the Blue Jays' use (or abuse) of the waiver system. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, blue jays, matt harvey, mike fiers, deception, mets http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20281 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20281 Ben and Sam discuss the implications of teams' ability to trade international bonus pool space, and whether it makes sense to enforce the rule about time between pitches. Fri, 19 Apr 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 185: Trading International Bonus Pool Space/Shortening the Time Between Pitches Ben and Sam discuss the implications of teams' ability to trade international bonus pool space, and whether it makes sense to enforce the rule about time between pitches. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, international players, time of game, time between pitches, tennis http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20270 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20270 Ben and Sam discuss Brett Gardner's new approach at the plate, and how hitters adjust to pitchers. Thu, 18 Apr 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 184: Brett Gardner Makes an Adjustment Ben and Sam discuss Brett Gardner's new approach at the plate, and how hitters adjust to pitchers. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, brett gardner http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20254 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20254 Ben and Sam answer listener emails about the future of the DH role, whether teams rest starters in games they expect to lose, whether it makes sense to bat Giancarlo Stanton leadoff, and more. Wed, 17 Apr 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 183: How to Set Up a Rotation/The DH of the Future/Batting Stanton Leadoff/Pitchers and Handwarmers/Quad-A Hitters Ben and Sam answer listener emails about the future of the DH role, whether teams rest starters in games they expect to lose, whether it makes sense to bat Giancarlo Stanton leadoff, and more. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, emails, giancarlo stanton, designated hitter, DH http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20244 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20244 Ben and Sam discuss how big a signing bonus Mark Appel will get in the amateur draft, then assess Mike Scioscia's job security. Tue, 16 Apr 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 182: How Much Will Mark Appel Make?/Is Mike Scioscia's Job Safe? Ben and Sam discuss how big a signing bonus Mark Appel will get in the amateur draft, then assess Mike Scioscia's job security. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, angels, mike scioscia, amateur draft, mark appel, astros http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20236 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20236 Ben and Sam discuss how the Marlins' lack of lineup protection has affected Giancarlo Stanton so far. Mon, 15 Apr 2013 08:51:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild 181: Giancarlo Stanton's Lineup Protection Problem Ben and Sam discuss how the Marlins' lack of lineup protection has affected Giancarlo Stanton so far. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, giancarlo stanton, marlins, lineup protection http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20214 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20214 Ben and Sam discuss the brawl between the Dodgers and Padres, then talk about Ben's latest catcher framing research. Fri, 12 Apr 2013 09:45:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 180: Carlos Quentin vs. Zack Greinke/Why Catcher Height Matters for Framing Ben and Sam discuss the brawl between the Dodgers and Padres, then talk about Ben's latest catcher framing research. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, brawl, dodgers, zack greinke, hbp, framing, defense http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20193 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20193 Ben and Sam discuss the situation surrounding Barry Zito's contract for 2014, and the Royals' hot, small-sample start. Thu, 11 Apr 2013 09:07:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 179: Extending Barry Zito/The First-Place Royals Ben and Sam discuss the situation surrounding Barry Zito's contract for 2014, and the Royals' hot, small-sample start. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, barry zito, giants, royals http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20172 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20172 Ben and Sam answer listener emails about batter-pitcher matchups, curious outfield alignments, where to put a player who can't play defense, and what baseball would be like without innings. Wed, 10 Apr 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 178: Batter-Pitcher Matchups/Outfield Alignments/A Player Who Can't Play Defense/The End of Innings Ben and Sam answer listener emails about batter-pitcher matchups, curious outfield alignments, where to put a player who can't play defense, and what baseball would be like without innings. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, emails http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20151 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20151 Ben and Sam talk about the performance impact of velocity loss, then discuss the Astros' astronomical early-season strikeout rate. Tue, 09 Apr 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 177: How Much Does Velocity Loss Matter?/The Astros' Runaway Strikeout Rate Ben and Sam talk about the performance impact of velocity loss, then discuss the Astros' astronomical early-season strikeout rate. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, astros, pitching, velocity http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20134 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20134 Ben and Sam talk about why the Marlins have put service-time considerations aside in Jose Fernandez's case, then discuss Jose Bautista's comments about umpires. Mon, 08 Apr 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 176: Jose Fernandez and Service Time/Jose Bautista and Umpire Payback Ben and Sam talk about why the Marlins have put service-time considerations aside in Jose Fernandez's case, then discuss Jose Bautista's comments about umpires. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, umpires, jose bautista, jose fernandez, marlins http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20110 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20110 Ben and Sam discuss the latest injury to Brian Roberts, Evan Longoria running by Ben Zobrist, and the speculation about a Profar-for-Taveras trade. Fri, 05 Apr 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 175: Brian Roberts' Injury, Baserunners Passing Baserunners, and the Pros and Cons of Trade Speculation Ben and Sam discuss the latest injury to Brian Roberts, Evan Longoria running by Ben Zobrist, and the speculation about a Profar-for-Taveras trade. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, injuries, brian roberts, baserunning, trades, trade http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20094 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20094 Ben and Sam share their thoughts on Roy Halladay, Tim Lincecum, Yu Darvish, Fernando Rodney, the Royals, Tom Milone, Shaun Marcum, and more. Thu, 04 Apr 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 174: More Week One Reactions Ben and Sam share their thoughts on Roy Halladay, Tim Lincecum, Yu Darvish, Fernando Rodney, the Royals, Tom Milone, Shaun Marcum, and more. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20084 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20084 Ben and Sam answer listener emails about whether we should let where and for how much a player signs influence how we expect him to play, then revisit their team predictions from the end of last season and discuss what started the sabermetric revolution. Wed, 03 Apr 2013 09:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 173: Should Contract Size Influence Our Projections for Players?/Revisiting Our Pre-Offseason Predictions/What Started the Sabermetric Revolution? Ben and Sam answer listener emails about whether we should let where and for how much a player signs influence how we expect him to play, then revisit their team predictions from the end of last season and discuss what started the sabermetric revolution. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, emails http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20075 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20075 Ben and Sam discuss the events of Opening Day that reinforced preseason expectations. Tue, 02 Apr 2013 08:55:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 172: The Confirmation Biases of Opening Day Ben and Sam discuss the events of Opening Day that reinforced preseason expectations. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, opening day, confirmation bias http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20055 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20055 Ben and Sam discuss the recent news about extensions for Justin Verlander, Buster Posey, and Elvis Andrus. Mon, 01 Apr 2013 04:55:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 171: Extensions for Everyone! Ben and Sam discuss the recent news about extensions for Justin Verlander, Buster Posey, and Elvis Andrus. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, extensions, contract extensions http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20029 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20029 Ben and Sam talk to Jason Parks about the forthcoming Fringe Average Podcast and BP prospect book, the ranking process, and how player development differs between teams. Fri, 29 Mar 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 170: Jason Parks on Podcasting, Prospect Ranking, and Player Development Ben and Sam talk to Jason Parks about the forthcoming Fringe Average Podcast and BP prospect book, the ranking process, and how player development differs between teams. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, prospects, scouting, minor leagues, player development http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20011 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=20011 Ben and Sam talk about Tim McCarver's impending retirement and share their thoughts on broadcasting, then discuss whether changes in players' routines have reduced the importance of clubhouse chemistry. Thu, 28 Mar 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 169: The Retirement of Tim McCarver/Is Clubhouse Chemistry Less Important Than it Used to Be? Ben and Sam talk about Tim McCarver's impending retirement and share their thoughts on broadcasting, then discuss whether changes in players' routines have reduced the importance of clubhouse chemistry. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, clubhouse chemistry, chemistry, tim mccarver, broadcasting http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19996 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19996 Ben and Sam answer listener emails about PECOTA's projections for the Yankees and Blue Jays, how the amateur draft and free agency would work in an auction format, and whether teams should offer players like Bryce Harper and Stephen Strasburg $100 million lifetime contracts after drafting them. Wed, 27 Mar 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 168: Projections for the Yankees and Blue Jays/If the Amateur Draft Were an Auction/Lifetime Contracts for Generational Talents Ben and Sam answer listener emails about PECOTA's projections for the Yankees and Blue Jays, how the amateur draft and free agency would work in an auction format, and whether teams should offer players like Bryce Harper and Stephen Strasburg $100 million lifetime contracts after drafting them. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, yankees, blue jays, draft, auction draft http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19983 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19983 Ben and Sam discuss Yasiel Puig's spring hot streak, how perceptions of him have changed since his signing, and what the Dodgers will do with him now. Tue, 26 Mar 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 167: Yasiel Puig's Explosive Spring Ben and Sam discuss Yasiel Puig's spring hot streak, how perceptions of him have changed since his signing, and what the Dodgers will do with him now. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, yasiel puig, dodgers http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19970 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19970 Ben and Sam discuss whether the supposed split between scouts and statheads about the outlook for the Astros actually exists. Mon, 25 Mar 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 166: Is the Internet Too Optimistic About the Astros? Ben and Sam discuss whether the supposed split between scouts and statheads about the outlook for the Astros actually exists. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, astros, houston astros, bloggers http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19953 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19953 Ben and Sam answer listener emails about the worst team to work for, what baseball would look like without outfield fences, when it's okay to give up on high draft picks, and how Mariano Rivera compares to top starting pitchers. Fri, 22 Mar 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 165: The Worst Team to Work For/Baseball Without Outfield Fences/When to Give Up on Top Draft Picks/Would Mariano Rivera Make an All-Time Team? Ben and Sam answer listener emails about the worst team to work for, what baseball would look like without outfield fences, when it's okay to give up on high draft picks, and how Mariano Rivera compares to top starting pitchers. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, mariano rivera, marlins, outfield fences, luke hochevar, royals http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19942 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19942 Ben and Sam talk to former Los Angeles Dodgers General Manager Dan Evans about his history as a baseball renaissance man and his new roles with the Toronto Blue Jays and the Northern League. Thu, 21 Mar 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 164: Dan Evans on Being a Baseball Renaissance Man and His New Job with the Blue Jays Ben and Sam talk to former Los Angeles Dodgers General Manager Dan Evans about his history as a baseball renaissance man and his new roles with the Toronto Blue Jays and the Northern League. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, dan evans http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19928 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19928 Ben and Sam discuss the rumored approach of the international approach with highly informed guest Jorge Arangure. Wed, 20 Mar 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 163: All About the International Draft Ben and Sam discuss the rumored approach of the international approach with highly informed guest Jorge Arangure. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, international draft http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19920 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19920 Ben and Sam discuss Aroldis Chapman's role and how much control players should have over the way they're used by their teams. Tue, 19 Mar 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 162: Aroldis Chapman and Player Preferences Ben and Sam discuss Aroldis Chapman's role and how much control players should have over the way they're used by their teams. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, aroldis chapman, reds, starting, closing http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19912 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19912 Ben and Sam talk to Ian Miller about his WBC experience and the response to the tournament in the US and abroad. Mon, 18 Mar 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 161: Breaking Down the WBC Ben and Sam talk to Ian Miller about his WBC experience and the response to the tournament in the US and abroad. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, wbc, world baseball classic http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19891 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19891 Ben and Sam discuss their expectations for Tim Lincecum and Roy Halladay after their disappointing 2012 seasons and struggles this spring. Fri, 15 Mar 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 160: The Outlooks for Tim Lincecum and Roy Halladay Ben and Sam discuss their expectations for Tim Lincecum and Roy Halladay after their disappointing 2012 seasons and struggles this spring. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, tim lincecum, roy halladay, velocity http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19881 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19881 Ben and Sam discuss the Brewers' Carlos Gomez extension and the increasing scarcity of impact free agents. Thu, 14 Mar 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 159: The Carlos Gomez Extension and the 2013-14 Free Agent Class Ben and Sam discuss the Brewers' Carlos Gomez extension and the increasing scarcity of impact free agents. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, free agency, carlos gomez, brewers, extension http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19871 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19871 Ben and Sam answer listener emails about how many games a team formed from the three worst teams in baseball would win, whether catchers (and non-catchers) should be allowed to block the plate, and expanding active rosters. Wed, 13 Mar 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 158: Combining Bad Teams/Blocking the Plate/The 26-Man Roster Ben and Sam answer listener emails about how many games a team formed from the three worst teams in baseball would win, whether catchers (and non-catchers) should be allowed to block the plate, and expanding active rosters. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, roster, roster construction, blocking the plate http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19859 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19859 Ben and Sam discuss Ben's trip to Phoenix for the SABR Analytics Conference, covering the sabermetrics of marketing, clubhouse chemistry, knuckleballers, bullpen usage, the WBC, Kyle Lohse, and other topics along the way. Tue, 12 Mar 2013 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 157: SABR Analytics Conference Recap Ben and Sam discuss Ben's trip to Phoenix for the SABR Analytics Conference, covering the sabermetrics of marketing, clubhouse chemistry, knuckleballers, bullpen usage, the WBC, Kyle Lohse, and other topics along the way. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, sabr, sabr analytics conference, wbc, knuckleball, clubhouse chemistry, kyle lohse, stats, sabermetrics http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19861 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19861 A listing of all our 2013 podcast team previews. Tue, 12 Mar 2013 03:59:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Every 2013 Team Preview Podcast in One Place A listing of all our 2013 podcast team previews. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19841 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19841 Ben and Sam preview the Rockies' season with Geoff Young, and Pete talks to MLB.com Rockies beat writer Thomas Harding (at 16:42). Fri, 08 Mar 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 156: 2013 Season Preview Series: Colorado Rockies Ben and Sam preview the Rockies' season with Geoff Young, and Pete talks to MLB.com Rockies beat writer Thomas Harding (at 16:42). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, rockies, colorado rockies http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19829 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19829 Ben and Sam preview the Padres' season with Geoff Young, and Pete talks to San Diego Union-Tribune writer Tom Krasovic (at 18:00). Thu, 07 Mar 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 155: 2013 Season Preview Series: San Diego Padres Ben and Sam preview the Padres' season with Geoff Young, and Pete talks to San Diego Union-Tribune writer Tom Krasovic (at 18:00). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, Padres, san diego padres http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19818 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19818 Ben and Sam preview the Diamondbacks' season with Doug Thorburn, and Pete talks to AZCentral Sports Diamondbacks beat writer Nick Piecoro (at 19:39). Wed, 06 Mar 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 154: 2013 Season Preview Series: Arizona Diamondbacks Ben and Sam preview the Diamondbacks' season with Doug Thorburn, and Pete talks to AZCentral Sports Diamondbacks beat writer Nick Piecoro (at 19:39). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, diamondbacks, arizona diamondbacks http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19795 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19795 Ben and Sam preview the Dodgers' season with Jay Jaffe, and Pete talks to MLB.com Dodgers beat writer Ken Gurnick (at 15:21). Tue, 05 Mar 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 153: 2013 Season Preview Series: Los Angeles Dodgers Ben and Sam preview the Dodgers' season with Jay Jaffe, and Pete talks to MLB.com Dodgers beat writer Ken Gurnick (at 15:21). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, dodgers, los angeles dodgers http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19770 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19770 Ben and Sam preview the Giants' season with Ian Miller and Josh Shepardson, and Pete talks to San Jose Mercury News and Bay Area News Group Giants reporter Alex Pavlovic (at 22:26). Mon, 04 Mar 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 152: 2013 Season Preview Series: San Francisco Giants Ben and Sam preview the Giants' season with Ian Miller and Josh Shepardson, and Pete talks to San Jose Mercury News and Bay Area News Group Giants reporter Alex Pavlovic (at 22:26). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, giants, san francisco giants http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19756 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19756 Ben and Sam preview the Cubs' season with Colin Wyers, and Pete talks to CSNChicago.com Cubs beat writer Patrick Mooney (at 19:43). Fri, 01 Mar 2013 11:35:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 151: 2013 Season Preview Series: Chicago Cubs Ben and Sam preview the Cubs' season with Colin Wyers, and Pete talks to CSNChicago.com Cubs beat writer Patrick Mooney (at 19:43). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, cubs, chicago cubs http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19731 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19731 Ben and Sam preview the Pirates' season with R.J. Anderson, and Pete talks to Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Pirates beat writer Rob Biertempfel (at 17:03). Thu, 28 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 150: 2013 Season Preview Series: Pittsburgh Pirates Ben and Sam preview the Pirates' season with R.J. Anderson, and Pete talks to Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Pirates beat writer Rob Biertempfel (at 17:03). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, pirates, pittsburgh pirates http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19725 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19725 Ben and Sam preview the Brewers' season with Ken Funck, and Pete talks to MLB.com columnist Mike Bauman (at 19:37). Wed, 27 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 149: 2013 Season Preview Series: Milwaukee Brewers Ben and Sam preview the Brewers' season with Ken Funck, and Pete talks to MLB.com columnist Mike Bauman (at 19:37). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, brewers, milwaukee brewers http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19713 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19713 Ben and Sam preview the Cardinals' season with Ken Funck, and Pete talks to St. Louis Post-Dispatch sports columnist Joe Strauss (at 18:06). Tue, 26 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 148: 2013 Season Preview Series: St. Louis Cardinals Ben and Sam preview the Cardinals' season with Ken Funck, and Pete talks to St. Louis Post-Dispatch sports columnist Joe Strauss (at 18:06). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, cardinals, st. louis cardinals http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19701 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19701 Ben and Sam preview the Reds' season with Jay Jaffe and Geoff Young, and Pete talks to Cincinnati CBS affiliate sports anchor/reporter Zach Wells (at 18:35). Mon, 25 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 147: 2013 Season Preview Series: Cincinnati Reds Ben and Sam preview the Reds' season with Jay Jaffe and Geoff Young, and Pete talks to Cincinnati CBS affiliate sports anchor/reporter Zach Wells (at 18:35). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, reds, cincinnati reds http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19688 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19688 Ben and Sam preview the Marlins' season with Daniel Rathman, and Pete talks to Sun-Sentinel Marlins beat writer Juan C. Rodriguez (at 16:59). Fri, 22 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 146: 2013 Season Preview Series: Miami Marlins Ben and Sam preview the Marlins' season with Daniel Rathman, and Pete talks to Sun-Sentinel Marlins beat writer Juan C. Rodriguez (at 16:59). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, marlins, miami Marlins http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19677 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19677 Ben and Sam preview the Mets' season with Jason Wojciechowski, and Pete talks to Newsday baseball columnist David Lennon (at 22:11). Thu, 21 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 145: 2013 Season Preview Series: New York Mets Ben and Sam preview the Mets' season with Jason Wojciechowski, and Pete talks to Newsday baseball columnist David Lennon (at 22:11). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, mets, new york mets http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19672 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19672 Ben and Sam preview the Phillies' season with Paul Sporer, and Pete talks to CSNPhilly.com Phillies Insider Jim Salisbury (at 19:27). Wed, 20 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 144: 2013 Season Preview Series: Philadelphia Phillies Ben and Sam preview the Phillies' season with Paul Sporer, and Pete talks to CSNPhilly.com Phillies Insider Jim Salisbury (at 19:27). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, phillies, philadelphia phillies http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19661 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19661 Ben and Sam preview the Braves' season with Zachary Levine, and Pete talks to Atlanta Journal-Constitution sports columnist Mark Bradley (at 16:42). Tue, 19 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 143: 2013 Season Preview Series: Atlanta Braves Ben and Sam preview the Braves' season with Zachary Levine, and Pete talks to Atlanta Journal-Constitution sports columnist Mark Bradley (at 16:42). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, braves, atlanta braves http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19651 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19651 Ben and Sam preview the Nationals' season with Paul Sporer and Daniel Rathman, and Pete talks to Adam Kilgore, who covers the Nationals for the Washington Post (at 19:51). Mon, 18 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 142: 2013 Season Preview Series: Washington Nationals Ben and Sam preview the Nationals' season with Paul Sporer and Daniel Rathman, and Pete talks to Adam Kilgore, who covers the Nationals for the Washington Post (at 19:51). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, nationals, washington nationals http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19633 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19633 Ben and Sam preview the Astros' season with Jason Collette, and Pete talks to MLB.com correspondent Richard Justice (at 16:54). Thu, 14 Feb 2013 23:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 141: 2013 Season Preview Series: Houston Astros Ben and Sam preview the Astros' season with Jason Collette, and Pete talks to MLB.com correspondent Richard Justice (at 16:54). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, astros, houston astros http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19624 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19624 Ben and Sam preview the Mariners' season, and Pete talks to Seattle Times Mariners writer Geoff Baker (at 18:53). Thu, 14 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 140: 2013 Series Preview: Seattle Mariners Ben and Sam preview the Mariners' season, and Pete talks to Seattle Times Mariners writer Geoff Baker (at 18:53). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, Mariners, seattle mariners http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19620 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19620 Ben and Sam preview the Angels' season, and Pete talks to Orange County Register Angels beat writer Jeff Fletcher (at 24:40). Wed, 13 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 139: 2013 Season Preview Series: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim Ben and Sam preview the Angels' season, and Pete talks to Orange County Register Angels beat writer Jeff Fletcher (at 24:40). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, angels http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19614 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19614 Ben and Sam preview the Rangers' season with Jason Cole, and Pete talks to ESPN Dallas staff writer and blogger Richard Durrett (at 20:48). Tue, 12 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 138: 2013 Season Preview Series: Texas Rangers Ben and Sam preview the Rangers' season with Jason Cole, and Pete talks to ESPN Dallas staff writer and blogger Richard Durrett (at 20:48). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, rangers, texas rangers http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19603 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19603 Ben and Sam preview the Athletics' season with Doug Thorburn, and Pete talks to Bay Area News Group A's beat writer John Hickey (at 19:07). Mon, 11 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 137: 2013 Season Preview Series: Oakland Athletics Ben and Sam preview the Athletics' season with Doug Thorburn, and Pete talks to Bay Area News Group A's beat writer John Hickey (at 19:07). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, athletics, a's, oakland a's, oakland athletics http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19593 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19593 Ben and Sam preview the Twins' season with Michael Bates and Bill Parker, and Pete talks to Star Tribune reporter Phill Miller (at 20:26). Fri, 08 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 136: 2013 Season Preview Series: Minnesota Twins Ben and Sam preview the Twins' season with Michael Bates and Bill Parker, and Pete talks to Star Tribune reporter Phill Miller (at 20:26). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, twins, minnesota twins http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19583 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19583 Ben and Sam preview the Indians' season with Matthew Kory and Paul Sporer, and Pete talks to MLB.com Indians reporter Jordan Bastian (at 19:57). Thu, 07 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 135: 2013 Season Preview Series: Cleveland Indians Ben and Sam preview the Indians' season with Matthew Kory and Paul Sporer, and Pete talks to MLB.com Indians reporter Jordan Bastian (at 19:57). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, indians, cleveland indians, podcast http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19575 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19575 Ben and Sam preview the Royals' season with Craig Brown, and Pete talks to Kansas City Star columnist Sam Mellinger (at 26:26). Wed, 06 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 134: 2013 Season Preview Series: Kansas City Royals Ben and Sam preview the Royals' season with Craig Brown, and Pete talks to Kansas City Star columnist Sam Mellinger (at 26:26). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, royals, kansas city royals, podcast http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19564 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19564 Ben and Sam preview the White Sox' season with Ken Funck, and Pete talks to Chicago Tribune White Sox beat writer Mark Gonzales (at 16:24). Tue, 05 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 133: 2013 Season Preview Series: Chicago White Sox Ben and Sam preview the White Sox' season with Ken Funck, and Pete talks to Chicago Tribune White Sox beat writer Mark Gonzales (at 16:24). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, white sox, chicago white sox, season preview http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19552 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19552 Ben and Sam preview the Tigers' season with Paul Sporer, and Pete talks to MLB.com Tigers beat writer Jason Beck (at 17:49). Mon, 04 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 132: 2013 Season Preview Series: Detroit Tigers Ben and Sam preview the Tigers' season with Paul Sporer, and Pete talks to MLB.com Tigers beat writer Jason Beck (at 17:49). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, tigers, detroit tigers, podcast http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19536 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19536 Ben and Sam preview the Red Sox' season with Matthew Kory, and Pete talks to Boston Globe and Boston.com columnist Chad Finn (at 22:13). Fri, 01 Feb 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 131: 2013 Season Preview Series: Boston Red Sox Ben and Sam preview the Red Sox' season with Matthew Kory, and Pete talks to Boston Globe and Boston.com columnist Chad Finn (at 22:13). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, red sox, boston red sox http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19529 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19529 Ben and Sam preview the Blue Jays' season with Matthew Kory, and Pete talks to Toronto Star Blue Jays reporter Brendan Kennedy (at 17:32). Thu, 31 Jan 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 130: 2013 Season Preview Series: Toronto Blue Jays Ben and Sam preview the Blue Jays' season with Matthew Kory, and Pete talks to Toronto Star Blue Jays reporter Brendan Kennedy (at 17:32). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, blue jays, toronto blue jays http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19520 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19520 Ben and Sam discuss whether the latest PED revelations really revealed anything worrisome before previewing the Rays' season with Adam Sobsey. Then Pete talks to Tampa Bay Tribune Rays reporter Roger Mooney (at 25:30). Wed, 30 Jan 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 129: Why the Latest Steroids Scandal Isn't That Scandalous/2013 Season Preview Series: Tampa Bay Rays Ben and Sam discuss whether the latest PED revelations really revealed anything worrisome before previewing the Rays' season with Adam Sobsey. Then Pete talks to Tampa Bay Tribune Rays reporter Roger Mooney (at 25:30). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, tampa bay rays, steroids, PED http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19506 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19506 Ben and Sam preview the Orioles' season with Derek Carty, and Pete talks to MLB.com Orioles reporter Brittany Ghiroli (at 13:22). Tue, 29 Jan 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 128: 2013 Season Preview Series: Baltimore Orioles Ben and Sam preview the Orioles' season with Derek Carty, and Pete talks to MLB.com Orioles reporter Brittany Ghiroli (at 13:22). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, season preview, orioles, baltimore orioles http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19494 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19494 Ben and Sam preview the Yankees' season, and Pete talks to ESPN New York columnist Wallace Matthews (at 15:45). Mon, 28 Jan 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 127: 2013 Season Preview Series: New York Yankees Ben and Sam preview the Yankees' season, and Pete talks to ESPN New York columnist Wallace Matthews (at 15:45). Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, season preview, yankees, new york yankees http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19478 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19478 Ben and Sam analyze the Justin Upton trade and Arizona's offseason. Fri, 25 Jan 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 126: Justin Upton is Actually Traded Ben and Sam analyze the Justin Upton trade and Arizona's offseason. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, justin upton, trade, braves, diamondbacks, kevin towers http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19468 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19468 Ben and Sam discuss the ins and outs of umpire-manager arguments. Thu, 24 Jan 2013 11:55:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 125: The Umpire-Manager Relationship Ben and Sam discuss the ins and outs of umpire-manager arguments. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, managers, umpires http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19459 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19459 Ben and Sam answer listener emails about pitcher injuries and pitching prospects, hitter BABIPs (specifically Mike Trout's), and whether they boo baseball players. Wed, 23 Jan 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 124: A World Without Easily Injured Pitchers/Hitter BABIP, and Whether Mike Trout Was Lucky/What We Think About Booing Ben and Sam answer listener emails about pitcher injuries and pitching prospects, hitter BABIPs (specifically Mike Trout's), and whether they boo baseball players. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, babip, mike trout, pitchers, injuries, pitching, TINSTAAPP http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19452 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19452 Ben and Sam discuss an assortment of topics, including the Astros' outlook for 2013 and beyond, Alex Rodriguez's long-awaited surgery, the Marlins and the MLBPA, and whether baseball broadcasts on the radio will survive. Tue, 22 Jan 2013 10:15:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 123: How Far Away Are the Astros?/The MLBPA is Mad at the Marlins/Is A-Rod's Surgery Suspicious?/The Future of Baseball on the Radio Ben and Sam discuss an assortment of topics, including the Astros' outlook for 2013 and beyond, Alex Rodriguez's long-awaited surgery, the Marlins and the MLBPA, and whether baseball broadcasts on the radio will survive. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, a-arod, alex rodriguez, yankees, marlins, mlba, astros, broadcasting, radio http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19414 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19414 Ben and Sam discuss PECOTA's projections for top draft picks from 2007 and talk about whether FIELDf/x and comparable technologies will ever pose a threat to scouts. Fri, 18 Jan 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 122: PECOTA Projects Elite Draft Picks from the Past/Should Scouts Fear FIELDf/x? Ben and Sam discuss PECOTA's projections for top draft picks from 2007 and talk about whether FIELDf/x and comparable technologies will ever pose a threat to scouts. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, PECOTA, draft picks, prospects, scouts, scouting, FIELDf/x http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19405 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19405 Ben and Sam discuss the three-way trade between the Mariners, A's, and Nationals and talk about whether Seattle was too fixated on adding power this offseason. Thu, 17 Jan 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 121: The Three-Way Trade and the Mariners' Quest for a Big Bat Ben and Sam discuss the three-way trade between the Mariners, A's, and Nationals and talk about whether Seattle was too fixated on adding power this offseason. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, trade, mike morse, michael morse, mariners, a's, athletics, nationals, mike rizzo, jack zduriencik http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19396 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19396 Ben and Sam answer listener emails about how much steroids help, the best farm systems in baseball, and how they'd try to negotiate a hypothetical trade. Wed, 16 Jan 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 120: Quantifying PED Effects/Best Farm Systems in Baseball/Roleplaying Trade Talks Ben and Sam answer listener emails about how much steroids help, the best farm systems in baseball, and how they'd try to negotiate a hypothetical trade. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, steroids, justin upton, chris sale, white sox, diamondbacks, farm system, prospects, PEDs, barry bonds http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19386 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19386 Ben and Sam answer several questions submitted but not answered during Ben's Monday chat. Tue, 15 Jan 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 119: Chris Sale's Scary Mechanics/The Tigers and Justin Upton/AL Breakout Players/Trading Ryan Braun/Edwin Encarnacion's Future Ben and Sam answer several questions submitted but not answered during Ben's Monday chat. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19378 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19378 Ben and Sam discuss TV shows, the lack of things to talk about, and some interesting findings about pitchouts. Mon, 14 Jan 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 118: All About Pitchouts! Ben and Sam discuss TV shows, the lack of things to talk about, and some interesting findings about pitchouts. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, pitchouts http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19365 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19365 Ben and Sam discuss the rejected trade that would have made Justin Upton a Mariner. Fri, 11 Jan 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 117: Justin Upton Update: Still Not Traded Ben and Sam discuss the rejected trade that would have made Justin Upton a Mariner. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, justin upton, trade, mariners, diamondbacks http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19350 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19350 Ben and Sam try to figure out whether the sabermetric movement has helped keep Jack Morris out of the Hall of Fame or given him a better chance to get in. Thu, 10 Jan 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 116: Has the Sabermetric Movement Helped or Hurt Jack Morris? Ben and Sam try to figure out whether the sabermetric movement has helped keep Jack Morris out of the Hall of Fame or given him a better chance to get in. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, jack morris, hall of fame http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19337 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19337 Ben and Sam answer listener emails about the Hall of Fame, preparing for interleague play, the 162-game schedule, and methods of preserving parity. Wed, 09 Jan 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 115: The Alternate-History Hall of Fame/Are NL Teams Stockpiling Position Players for Interleague Play?/Is 162 Games Too Many?/Preserving Parity Ben and Sam answer listener emails about the Hall of Fame, preparing for interleague play, the 162-game schedule, and methods of preserving parity. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19329 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19329 Ben and Sam discuss the Hall of Fame voting and what their own ballots would look like. Tue, 08 Jan 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 114: The One Where We Talk About the Hall of Fame Ben and Sam discuss the Hall of Fame voting and what their own ballots would look like. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, hall of fame, ballot, voting, hall of fame voting http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19318 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19318 Ben and Sam break down three trade rumors that surfaced over the weekend. Mon, 07 Jan 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 113: Three Trade Rumors We Read This Weekend Ben and Sam break down three trade rumors that surfaced over the weekend. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, trade, trades, trade rumors http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19305 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19305 Ben and Sam reflect on one of the slowest days of the offseason and then discuss the lack of movement in the market for Kyle Lohse. Fri, 04 Jan 2013 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 112: The Kyle Lohse Quandary Ben and Sam reflect on one of the slowest days of the offseason and then discuss the lack of movement in the market for Kyle Lohse. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, kyle lohse, free agent, starting pitcher, scott boras, qualifying offer, draft pick http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19299 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19299 Ben and Sam discuss Joe Maddon's value and the ways in which managers might have more or less impact than the typical non-baseball boss. Thu, 03 Jan 2013 10:34:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 111: How Do Major-League Managers Differ from Non-Baseball Bosses? Ben and Sam discuss Joe Maddon's value and the ways in which managers might have more or less impact than the typical non-baseball boss. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, managers http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19285 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19285 Ben and Sam answer listener emails about how players with criminal pasts should be treated and how much pitchers' non-pitching skills matter. Wed, 02 Jan 2013 09:15:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 110: Players with Criminal Pasts/How Much Do Pitcher Hitting, Fielding, and Baserunning Matter? Ben and Sam answer listener emails about how players with criminal pasts should be treated and how much pitchers' non-pitching skills matter. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, criminal records, josh lueke, pitchers http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19269 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19269 Ben and Sam ask and answer eight mostly unrelated questions about baseball and themselves. Fri, 28 Dec 2012 09:44:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 109: Eight Questions (and Answers) for the End of the Year Ben and Sam ask and answer eight mostly unrelated questions about baseball and themselves. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, baseball, podcast, hitting, pitching, suspensions http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19259 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19259 Ben and Sam answer listener emails about Ian Kinsler, how to decide when it's time to change GMs, R.A. Dickey and the dome, and more. Thu, 27 Dec 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 108: What Position Should Ian Kinsler Play?/How Do You Know When You Need a New GM? Ben and Sam answer listener emails about Ian Kinsler, how to decide when it's time to change GMs, R.A. Dickey and the dome, and more. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, r.a. dickey, ian kinsler, rangers, GMs, general managers http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19229 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19229 Ben and Sam discuss Edwin Jackson and the rest of the Cubs' offseason signings and talk about how the specter of draft-pick compensation is affecting some free agents. Fri, 21 Dec 2012 04:01:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 107: Edwin Jackson, the Cubs, and Qualifying Offers Ben and Sam discuss Edwin Jackson and the rest of the Cubs' offseason signings and talk about how the specter of draft-pick compensation is affecting some free agents. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, cubs, starters, rotation, free agents, qualifying offers, draft picks http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19218 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19218 Ben and Sam answer listener emails about the Angels' offense, the dreaded mental block known as the yips, and the impact of the time pitchers take between pitches. Thu, 20 Dec 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 106: How Good is the Angels' Offense?/What We Think About the Yips/Does Pitcher Pace Matter? Ben and Sam answer listener emails about the Angels' offense, the dreaded mental block known as the yips, and the impact of the time pitchers take between pitches. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, angels, josh hamilton, the yips, pitcher pace, offense http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19209 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19209 Ben and Sam answer listener emails about R.A. Dickey, the Red Sox, and more. Wed, 19 Dec 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 105: Will R.A. Dickey's Knuckleball Be Better in the Dome?/Do the Red Sox Have a Consistent Philosophy? Ben and Sam answer listener emails about R.A. Dickey, the Red Sox, and more. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, red sox, r.a. dickey, mets, blue jays, knuckleball, free agents http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19202 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19202 Ben and Sam discuss what they see as the worst signings so far this winter. Tue, 18 Dec 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 104: Our Least-Favorite Offseason Signings So Far Ben and Sam discuss what they see as the worst signings so far this winter. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, free agents, signings, mistakes, offseason winter, transactions http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19182 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19182 Ben and Sam are joined by Jason Parks for a discussion of the R.A. Dickey deal and the risks and rewards of trading top prospects. Mon, 17 Dec 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 103: The R.A. Dickey Deal and Trading Top Prospects (With Jason Parks) Ben and Sam are joined by Jason Parks for a discussion of the R.A. Dickey deal and the risks and rewards of trading top prospects. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, prospects, trade, r.a. dickey, mets, blue jays, travis d'arnaud http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19169 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19169 Ben and Sam are joined by Ian Miller and Riley Breckenridge, the heroes behind Productive Outs, to talk about the Angels, Josh Hamilton, and whether fans should worry about bad contracts anymore. Fri, 14 Dec 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 102: Josh Hamilton and Whether a Potentially Bad Contract is Worse Than No Contract at All Ben and Sam are joined by Ian Miller and Riley Breckenridge, the heroes behind Productive Outs, to talk about the Angels, Josh Hamilton, and whether fans should worry about bad contracts anymore. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, Josh Hamilton, Angels, Jerry Dipoto, Arte Moreno, Peter Bourjos http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19152 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19152 Ben and Sam answer listener emails about whether a Yankees fan can learn to like Kevin Youkilis, whether the Diamondbacks got enough back for Trevor Bauer, why teams love left-handed starters, and more. Thu, 13 Dec 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 101: Learning to Like Youkilis/What the Diamondbacks Got Back for Bauer/Why Do Teams Love Lefty Starters? Ben and Sam answer listener emails about whether a Yankees fan can learn to like Kevin Youkilis, whether the Diamondbacks got enough back for Trevor Bauer, why teams love left-handed starters, and more. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, emails, yankees, red sox, kevin youkilis, trade, trevor bauer, lefties http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19141 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19141 Ben and Sam talk to Kevin Goldstein about his life after leaving Baseball Prospectus to work for the Houston Astros, what he's working on, and what he's learned about how baseball teams work. Also, what he's drinking. Wed, 12 Dec 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 100: Astros Pro Scouting Coordinator Kevin Goldstein on Being Inside Baseball Ben and Sam talk to Kevin Goldstein about his life after leaving Baseball Prospectus to work for the Houston Astros, what he's working on, and what he's learned about how baseball teams work. Also, what he's drinking. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, scouting, kevin goldstein, astros http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19131 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19131 Ben and Sam weigh in on the Rays-Royals trade involving James Shields and Wil Myers a day after the dust settles. Tue, 11 Dec 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 99: Two More Reactions to the Rays-Royals Trade Ben and Sam weigh in on the Rays-Royals trade involving James Shields and Wil Myers a day after the dust settles. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, trade, podcast, rays, royals, wil myers, james shields http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19121 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19121 Ben and Sam discuss the Zack Greinke signing and the Dodgers' astronomical payroll with Mike Petriello of Dodgers blog Mike Scioscia's Tragic Illness. Mon, 10 Dec 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 98: Zack Greinke and the Dodgers' Bottomless Bankroll Ben and Sam discuss the Zack Greinke signing and the Dodgers' astronomical payroll with Mike Petriello of Dodgers blog Mike Scioscia's Tragic Illness. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, dodgers, payroll, zack greinke, free agency http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19105 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19105 Ben and Sam discuss Koji Uehara's signing with the Red Sox and attempt to figure out why he doesn't make more money and high-leverage appearances. Fri, 07 Dec 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 97: Why Couldn't Koji Uehara Get a Bigger Contract? Ben and Sam discuss Koji Uehara's signing with the Red Sox and attempt to figure out why he doesn't make more money and high-leverage appearances. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, koji uehara, relievers, pitching, red sox http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19094 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19094 Ben and Sam recap Ben's experiences on his first trip to the Winter Meetings. Thu, 06 Dec 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 96: What the Winter Meetings Were Like Ben and Sam recap Ben's experiences on his first trip to the Winter Meetings. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, winter meetings http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19080 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19080 Ben and Sam answer listener emails mostly (but not entirely) about things that happened on day two of the Winter Meetings. Wed, 05 Dec 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 95: Switch-Hitters Who Shouldn't Switch-Hit/What We Learned from The Book/Dan Haren vs. Edwin Jackson/The Yunel Escobar Trade and the Yankees Ben and Sam answer listener emails mostly (but not entirely) about things that happened on day two of the Winter Meetings. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19065 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19065 Ben and Sam discuss the trade value of two of the players whose names were most often bandied about in rumors on the first day of the Winter Meetings. Tue, 04 Dec 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 94: The Perplexing Trade Value of R.A. Dickey and Billy Butler Ben and Sam discuss the trade value of two of the players whose names were most often bandied about in rumors on the first day of the Winter Meetings. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, billy butler, r.a. dickey, jon niese, trades, designated hitters, dh, designated hitter, winter meetings, rumors, trade value http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19049 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19049 Ben and Sam discuss and pick out the most interesting parts of Bob Elliott's article on how the big Blue-Jays Marlins trade went down. Mon, 03 Dec 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 93: Behind the Scenes of the Blue Jays-Marlins Blockbuster Ben and Sam discuss and pick out the most interesting parts of Bob Elliott's article on how the big Blue-Jays Marlins trade went down. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, trade, blue jays, marlins http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19031 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19031 Ben and Sam discuss why prospect Alex Meyer isn't the Twins' usual type, then wonder why teams didn't think Russell Martin was worth more than the Pirates paid him. Fri, 30 Nov 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 92: Why the Twins' New Prospect Isn't Their Type/Why Didn't Russell Martin Make More Money? Ben and Sam discuss why prospect Alex Meyer isn't the Twins' usual type, then wonder why teams didn't think Russell Martin was worth more than the Pirates paid him. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, russell martin, twins, alex meyer, framing, catching, catcher http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19024 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19024 Ben and Sam break down the Braves' signing of B.J. Upton and discuss the discrepancy between different appraisals of his value. Thu, 29 Nov 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 91: What Will the Braves Get from B.J. Upton? Ben and Sam break down the Braves' signing of B.J. Upton and discuss the discrepancy between different appraisals of his value. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, b.j. upton, braves, free agent, free agency http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19009 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19009 Ben and Sam answer listener emails about how the Reds might save some money on Aroldis Chapman, whether certain teams might benefit more from framing than others, and where we would rank Marvin Miller in the pantheon of important historical baseball figures. Wed, 28 Nov 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 90: The Cheapskate Approach to Aroldis Chapman/The Phillies and Framing/Ranking Baseball Figures By Historical Importance Ben and Sam answer listener emails about how the Reds might save some money on Aroldis Chapman, whether certain teams might benefit more from framing than others, and where we would rank Marvin Miller in the pantheon of important historical baseball figures. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, emails, podcast, framing, marvin miller, history, aroldis chapman, reds http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18999 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18999 Ben and Sam discuss Evan Longoria's second extension and why players aren't holding out for a bigger slice of the revenue pie. Tue, 27 Nov 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 89: The Evan Longoria Extension, the Rays, and Why Players Aren't Holding Out for More Money Ben and Sam discuss Evan Longoria's second extension and why players aren't holding out for a bigger slice of the revenue pie. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, evan longoria, rays, inflation, extension, contracts http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18988 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18988 Ben and Sam discuss what we can learn from the rumors that Royals prospect Wil Myers is available via trade. Mon, 26 Nov 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 88: Wil Myers, the Royals, and Rumors About Trading Top Prospects Ben and Sam discuss what we can learn from the rumors that Royals prospect Wil Myers is available via trade. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, wil myers, royals, prospects, minor leagues http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18974 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18974 Ben and Sam answer selected listener emails in a pre-Thanksgiving episode. Wed, 21 Nov 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 87: Baseball and the BCS/Halladay vs. Lee/Does the "Success Cycle" Still Exist? Ben and Sam answer selected listener emails in a pre-Thanksgiving episode. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18959 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18959 Ben and Sam discuss whether MLB's Commissioner should have the power to block a trade, as Bud Selig considered doing to the Marlins-Blue Jays blockbuster. Tue, 20 Nov 2012 04:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 86: Should the Commissioner Have the Ability to Overturn a Trade? Ben and Sam discuss whether MLB's Commissioner should have the power to block a trade, as Bud Selig considered doing to the Marlins-Blue Jays blockbuster. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, bud selig, blue jays, marlins, commissioner, bowie kuhn, trades, trading http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18954 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18954 Ben and Sam discuss whether Manny Acta's lousy career win-loss record has any bearing on his likelihood of success if he becomes the Blue Jays' manager. Mon, 19 Nov 2012 05:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 85: Manny Acta and the Blue Jays' Managerial Job Ben and Sam discuss whether Manny Acta's lousy career win-loss record has any bearing on his likelihood of success if he becomes the Blue Jays' manager. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, blue jays, manny acta, sabermetrics, manager, managers, managing http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18933 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18933 Ben and Sam discuss the finding that Jose Molina's receiving was worth 50 runs and talk about what it's implications for baseball might be. Fri, 16 Nov 2012 05:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 84: Jose Molina and What the Quantification of Catcher Framing Might Mean Ben and Sam discuss the finding that Jose Molina's receiving was worth 50 runs and talk about what it's implications for baseball might be. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, jose molina, catcher, defense, framing, catcher defense http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18915 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18915 Ben and Sam answer listener emails about whether the Marlins or Astros will win more games in 2013, who'll be the next retiring player to get the Chipper Jones treatment, when Yasmani Grandal will play for the Padres, and how the Angels should align their outfielders. Thu, 15 Nov 2012 05:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 83: Astros vs. Marlins in 2013/The Next Farewell Tour/Yasmani Grandal's Suspension/Mark Trumbo, Center Fielder Ben and Sam answer listener emails about whether the Marlins or Astros will win more games in 2013, who'll be the next retiring player to get the Chipper Jones treatment, when Yasmani Grandal will play for the Padres, and how the Angels should align their outfielders. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, yasmani grandal, astros, marlins, chipper jones, mark trumbo, angels http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18903 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18903 Ben and Sam break down the Marlins-Blue Jays trade from every angle, or at least all the angles that occurred to them at the time. Wed, 14 Nov 2012 05:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 82: The Marlins-Blue Jays Blockbuster Ben and Sam break down the Marlins-Blue Jays trade from every angle, or at least all the angles that occurred to them at the time. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, trade, blockbuster, blue jays, marlins http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18891 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18891 Ben and Sam discuss the Reds' and Angels' approaches to bullpen-building, how Cincinnati's philosophy affects Aroldis Chapman's future, and which way the wind is blowing where the closer role is concerned. Tue, 13 Nov 2012 05:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 81: The Angels, the Reds, and Two Conflicting Closer Philosophies Ben and Sam discuss the Reds' and Angels' approaches to bullpen-building, how Cincinnati's philosophy affects Aroldis Chapman's future, and which way the wind is blowing where the closer role is concerned. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, angels, reds, aroldis chapman, closers, relievers http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18867 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18867 Ben and Sam discuss whether Josh Hamilton could end up signing a reasonable contract after all and talk about whether the Yankees can commit to and compete despite their goal to get under the luxury tax threshold by 2014. Fri, 09 Nov 2012 05:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 80: Could Josh Hamilton Be a Bargain?/Are the Financially Responsible Yankees for Real? Ben and Sam discuss whether Josh Hamilton could end up signing a reasonable contract after all and talk about whether the Yankees can commit to and compete despite their goal to get under the luxury tax threshold by 2014. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, josh hamilton, free agency, free agent, contracts, yankees, hal steinbrenner, luxury tax http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18858 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18858 Ben and Sam discuss whether recent events and rumors portend more young players on the move, and why. Thu, 08 Nov 2012 05:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 79: Are Teams Becoming More Willing to Trade Their Young Players? Ben and Sam discuss whether recent events and rumors portend more young players on the move, and why. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, prospects, trades, young players, rumors, jesus montero, michael pineda http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18853 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18853 Ben and Sam answer listener emails about the importance of coaches, defensive stats, and how we know whether pitchers should gain or lose weight, with guest appearances by Colin Wyers and Doug Thorburn. Wed, 07 Nov 2012 05:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 78: Quantifying Coaches/Why Some Fielders Look Better Than They Are/How Do We Know What Pitchers Should Weigh? Ben and Sam answer listener emails about the importance of coaches, defensive stats, and how we know whether pitchers should gain or lose weight, with guest appearances by Colin Wyers and Doug Thorburn. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, stats, scouts, pitching, weight, fitness, mechanics, defense, coaches http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18843 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18843 Ben and Sam discuss which teams might benefit most from adding a few wins this winter. Tue, 06 Nov 2012 05:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 77: The Teams in the Winter Spending Sweet Spot Ben and Sam discuss which teams might benefit most from adding a few wins this winter. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, offseason, free agency, marginal wins http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18834 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18834 Ben and Sam discuss the discrepancies between lists of the top free agents this offseason. Mon, 05 Nov 2012 05:00:00 -0800 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 76: The Free Agents the Internet Can't Agree On Ben and Sam discuss the discrepancies between lists of the top free agents this offseason. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, free agents http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18819 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18819 Ben and Sam welcome Matthew Kory to the podcast to discuss the David Ortiz contract negotiations and the outlook for the Red Sox this winter. Fri, 02 Nov 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 75: The David Ortiz Decision and the Offseason Outlook for the Red Sox Ben and Sam welcome Matthew Kory to the podcast to discuss the David Ortiz contract negotiations and the outlook for the Red Sox this winter. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, david ortiz, boston red sox, red sox, free agent, offseason http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18810 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18810 Ben and Sam discuss what the Ervin Santana trade says about the Royals' rotation and the pitching market, then talk about what Rick Hahn's ascension to the GM role in Chicago means for the future of front offices. Thu, 01 Nov 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 74: The Ervin Santana Trade, the Royals' Rotation, and the Pitching Market/Rick Hahn and the Future of Front Offices Ben and Sam discuss what the Ervin Santana trade says about the Royals' rotation and the pitching market, then talk about what Rick Hahn's ascension to the GM role in Chicago means for the future of front offices. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, pitching, trades, free agents, podcast, royals, ervin santana, angels, rick hahn, white sox, front offices, general managers http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18801 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18801 Ben and Sam discuss the three-year deal the Dodgers gave Brandon League and reliever salaries in general, then talk about whether Gold Glove voters and advanced defensive stats agree more often than they used to. Wed, 31 Oct 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 73: Did the Dodgers Overpay for Brandon League?/Are Gold Glove Voters and Defensive Stats Learning to get Along? Ben and Sam discuss the three-year deal the Dodgers gave Brandon League and reliever salaries in general, then talk about whether Gold Glove voters and advanced defensive stats agree more often than they used to. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, defense, gold gloves, gold glove awards, fielding bible awards, dodgers, brandon league, darwin barney http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18792 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18792 Ben and Sam discuss the decisions the Angels are about to make concerning Dan Haren and Ervin Santana and talk about what their 2013 rotation will look like, then predict 2013's division/World Series winners and last-place teams. Tue, 30 Oct 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 72: How Many Members of the Angels' Rotation Will Be Back?/Predicting the First- and Last-Place Teams of 2013 Ben and Sam discuss the decisions the Angels are about to make concerning Dan Haren and Ervin Santana and talk about what their 2013 rotation will look like, then predict 2013's division/World Series winners and last-place teams. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, angels, predictions, podcast, dan haren, ervin santana, zack greinke http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18784 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18784 Ben and Sam discuss the start of the offseason and what the Giants' second World Series win in three seasons says about GM Brian Sabean. Mon, 29 Oct 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 71: The Giants Win the World Series/Assessing Brian Sabean Ben and Sam discuss the start of the offseason and what the Giants' second World Series win in three seasons says about GM Brian Sabean. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, world series, podcast, giants, brian sabean, offseason, playoffs, postseason http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18772 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18772 Ben and Sam discuss all the notable events from World Series Game Two, including Madison Bumgarner's impressive outing, the line drive off of Doug Fister's head, and Jim Leyland's decision to play the infield back in the seventh, then assess the odds of a comeback by the Tigers. Fri, 26 Oct 2012 11:01:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 70: World Series Game Two/Protective Gear for Pitchers Ben and Sam discuss all the notable events from World Series Game Two, including Madison Bumgarner's impressive outing, the line drive off of Doug Fister's head, and Jim Leyland's decision to play the infield back in the seventh, then assess the odds of a comeback by the Tigers. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, world series, tigers, giants, madison bumgarner, line drives, helmets, doug fister, playoffs, podcast http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18760 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18760 Ben and Sam discuss the unpredictable outcome of World Series Game One and observe that Delmon Young is starting to look a lot like Stanley from The Office. Thu, 25 Oct 2012 10:50:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 69: The Weirdness of World Series Game One/Delmon Young's Surprising Career Ben and Sam discuss the unpredictable outcome of World Series Game One and observe that Delmon Young is starting to look a lot like Stanley from The Office. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, world series, postseason, playoffs, giants, tigers, justin verlander, barry zito, delmon young http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18748 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18748 Ben and Sam discuss the most interesting angles heading into the series and succumb to the pressure to make their picks. Wed, 24 Oct 2012 09:41:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 68: The Obligatory World Series Preview Episode Ben and Sam discuss the most interesting angles heading into the series and succumb to the pressure to make their picks. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, world series, podcast, giants, tigers http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18735 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18735 Ben and Sam discuss whether the NLCS performances of several players affected how they think about them or changed the narratives that followed them into the series. Tue, 23 Oct 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 67: Did Our Opinions of Players Change in the NLCS? Ben and Sam discuss whether the NLCS performances of several players affected how they think about them or changed the narratives that followed them into the series. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, nlcs, giants, cardinals, playoffs, postseason, podcast http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18714 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18714 Ben and Sam discuss the deeper significance, if any, of the Yankees getting swept. Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:54:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 66: Performing a Post-Mortem on the Yankees Ben and Sam discuss the deeper significance, if any, of the Yankees getting swept. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, yankees, alcs, tigers, alex rodriguez http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18703 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18703 Ben and Sam discuss how the postponement of Game Four hurt the Yankees, talk about how terrible at baseball Hunter Pence appears to be and whether he's always looked like that, and conclude by revisiting the widespread anti-Cardinals sentiment among baseball fans and examining their own emotional allegiances. Thu, 18 Oct 2012 11:35:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 65: The Impact of the ALCS Rainout/The Strange Appearance of Hunter Pence/Do We Dislike Any Players or Teams? Ben and Sam discuss how the postponement of Game Four hurt the Yankees, talk about how terrible at baseball Hunter Pence appears to be and whether he's always looked like that, and conclude by revisiting the widespread anti-Cardinals sentiment among baseball fans and examining their own emotional allegiances. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, baseball, playoffs, giants, cardinals, hunter pence, alcs, yankees, tigers, cc sabathia http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18693 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18693 Ben and Sam discuss Joe Girardi's decision(s) not to pinch-hit for any of his left-handed hitters late in Game Three of the ALCS. Wed, 17 Oct 2012 11:25:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 64: Should Joe Girardi Have Pinch-Hit in Game Three? Ben and Sam discuss Joe Girardi's decision(s) not to pinch-hit for any of his left-handed hitters late in Game Three of the ALCS. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, yankees, tigers, strategy, tactics, joe girardi, managing, pinch-hitting, alex rodriguez, raul ibanez, phil coke, joaquin benoit http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18682 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18682 Ben and Sam discuss whether Matt Holliday's takeout slide at second was against the rules and why the Cardinals are so widely disliked, then talk about how Ryan Vogelsong has rewarded the Giants for their faith during a string of bad starts. Tue, 16 Oct 2012 11:11:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 63: The Slide Heard 'Round the World/Why Does Everyone Hate the Cardinals?/Ryan Vogelsong Rewards Bruce Bochy Ben and Sam discuss whether Matt Holliday's takeout slide at second was against the rules and why the Cardinals are so widely disliked, then talk about how Ryan Vogelsong has rewarded the Giants for their faith during a string of bad starts. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, playoffs, giants, cardinals, matt holliday, ryan vogelsong http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18673 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18673 Ben and Sam catch up on the Yankees-Tigers ALCS and Ben's beat-writing adventures, then talk about why players and stats disagree about the difficulty of pitching on short rest, and Jim Leyland's comments about closers. Mon, 15 Oct 2012 11:22:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 62: Yankees-Tigers ALCS Update/How Hard is Pitching on Short Rest?/October Bullpen Strategy Ben and Sam catch up on the Yankees-Tigers ALCS and Ben's beat-writing adventures, then talk about why players and stats disagree about the difficulty of pitching on short rest, and Jim Leyland's comments about closers. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, playoffs, postseason, podcast, yankees, tigers, jim leyland, closers, bullpen, short rest http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18647 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18647 Ben and Sam catch up with the latest action developments in each of the just-completed or still-in-progress playoff series, then discuss Darren O'Day in greater depth. Fri, 12 Oct 2012 09:06:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 61: Division Series Round-Up/Giving Darren O'Day His Due Ben and Sam catch up with the latest action developments in each of the just-completed or still-in-progress playoff series, then discuss Darren O'Day in greater depth. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, playoffs, baseball, podcast, darren o'day http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18633 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18633 Ben and Sam discuss Game Three of the Yankees-Orioles ALDS, the decision to pinch-hit for Alex Rodriguez, and A-Rod's future in New York, then talk about why the Stephen Strasburg debate won't go away. Thu, 11 Oct 2012 11:15:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 60: Ibanez Pinch-Hits for A-Rod/The Strasburg Debate That Won't Die Ben and Sam discuss Game Three of the Yankees-Orioles ALDS, the decision to pinch-hit for Alex Rodriguez, and A-Rod's future in New York, then talk about why the Stephen Strasburg debate won't go away. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, yankees, orioles, nationals, stephen strasburg, alex rodriguez, raul ibanez http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18611 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18611 Ben and Sam bring on Jason Wojciechowski to discuss whether the 2-3 playoff format is the abomination he makes it out to be, then talk about how the A's Game Three victory changes (or doesn't change) their odds of beating the Tigers. Wed, 10 Oct 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 59: Does the 2-3 Playoff Format Affect Home Field Advantage?/Can the A's Defeat Detroit? Ben and Sam bring on Jason Wojciechowski to discuss whether the 2-3 playoff format is the abomination he makes it out to be, then talk about how the A's Game Three victory changes (or doesn't change) their odds of beating the Tigers. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, playoffs, oakland athletics, oakland A's, podcast http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18601 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18601 Ben and Sam talk to Not Jim Tracy about his resignation from the Rockies, then discuss how the narratives surrounding each playoff series have held up over the first few days of games. Tue, 09 Oct 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 58: How Accurate Have the Postseason Narratives Been So Far?/Not Jim Tracy Returns Ben and Sam talk to Not Jim Tracy about his resignation from the Rockies, then discuss how the narratives surrounding each playoff series have held up over the first few days of games. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, not jim tracy, rockies, playoffs, podcast http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18556 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18556 Ben and Sam are joined by Marc Normandin, formerly of Baseball Prospectus and currently of SB Nation, to discuss which teams will win a World Series in the next five years, the changing role of beat writers, and Joe Saunders, the Orioles' starter in tonight's play-in game. Fri, 05 Oct 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 57: The Teams That Will Win a World Series in the Next Five Years/Are Beat Writers Becoming More or Less Important?/The O's Start Saunders Ben and Sam are joined by Marc Normandin, formerly of Baseball Prospectus and currently of SB Nation, to discuss which teams will win a World Series in the next five years, the changing role of beat writers, and Joe Saunders, the Orioles' starter in tonight's play-in game. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, playoffs, podcast, orioles, joe saunders, beat writers, world series http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18538 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18538 Ben and Sam join/are joined by Carson Cistulli of FanGraphs for a longest-ever episode about the worst predictions teams and players made about themselves, Bryce Harper's historical significance, and the baseball players who led the league in our hearts in 2012. We talked for almost an hour, so adjust your commutes accordingly. Thu, 04 Oct 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 56: A Very Special Simulpodcast with FanGraphs Audio Ben and Sam join/are joined by Carson Cistulli of FanGraphs for a longest-ever episode about the worst predictions teams and players made about themselves, Bryce Harper's historical significance, and the baseball players who led the league in our hearts in 2012. We talked for almost an hour, so adjust your commutes accordingly. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, fangraphs audio, carson cistulli, predictions, athletics, bryce harper, 2012 season http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18531 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18531 Ben and Sam discuss the Mariners' decision to bring in (and lower) Safeco Field's fences, then talk about what the seasons of Tsuyoshi Nishioka and Norichika Aoki say about the difficulty of projecting the performance of Japanese imports. Wed, 03 Oct 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 55: Shrinking Safeco/The Unpredictability of Japanese Players Ben and Sam discuss the Mariners' decision to bring in (and lower) Safeco Field's fences, then talk about what the seasons of Tsuyoshi Nishioka and Norichika Aoki say about the difficulty of projecting the performance of Japanese imports. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, npb, japan, japanese players, posting system, safeco field, mariners, park effects, podcast http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18515 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18515 Ben and Sam discuss Jeff Luhnow's plan to interview his players at the end of each season, then talk about why players and front-office executives are backing different candidates for AL MVP. Tue, 02 Oct 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 54: Jeff Luhnow's Season-Ending Interview Idea/Why Players and Executives Disagree About the AL MVP Ben and Sam discuss Jeff Luhnow's plan to interview his players at the end of each season, then talk about why players and front-office executives are backing different candidates for AL MVP. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, miguel cabrera, mike trout, al mvp, jeff luhnow, astros http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18500 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18500 Ben and Sam discuss whether the second wild card has made the stretch run more exciting, then talk about why papers publish columns that criticize advanced stats without making an effort to understand them. Mon, 01 Oct 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 53: Is the Second Wild Card Working?/Explaining Mainstream Screeds Against Advanced Stats Ben and Sam discuss whether the second wild card has made the stretch run more exciting, then talk about why papers publish columns that criticize advanced stats without making an effort to understand them. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, WAR, WARP, newspapers, columns, angels, playoffs, wild card, second wild card, podcast http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18487 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18487 Ben and Sam discuss whether the A's all-rookie rotation bodes well for their future, then talk about whether the average strikeout rate has risen too high. Fri, 28 Sep 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 52: Oakland's All-Rookie Rotation/Baseball's Ever-Rising Strikeout Rate Ben and Sam discuss whether the A's all-rookie rotation bodes well for their future, then talk about whether the average strikeout rate has risen too high. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, rookies, oakland athletics, oakland a's, strikeouts, strikeout rate http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18475 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18475 Ben and Sam discuss the decline of Ubaldo Jimenez and whether the Rockies saw it coming when they sent him to Cleveland, then talk about the Angels' off-season plans for Torii Hunter and Dan Haren. Thu, 27 Sep 2012 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 51: What the Rockies Knew About Ubaldo/The Eternal Torii Hunter/Declining Dan Haren Ben and Sam discuss the decline of Ubaldo Jimenez and whether the Rockies saw it coming when they sent him to Cleveland, then talk about the Angels' off-season plans for Torii Hunter and Dan Haren. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, angels, dan haren, torii hunter, free agents, ubaldo jimenez, options, indians, rockies, pitchers http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18464 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18464 Ben and Sam discuss what we can learn from Travis Snider's revelations about his relationships with his former manager and hitting coach, then talk about whether they would bring Melky Cabrera back for the NLCS. Wed, 26 Sep 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 50: Travis Snider Tells All/Should the Giants Bring Melky Back in October? Ben and Sam discuss what we can learn from Travis Snider's revelations about his relationships with his former manager and hitting coach, then talk about whether they would bring Melky Cabrera back for the NLCS. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, travis snider, cito gaston, blue jays, giants, melky cabrera http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18457 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18457 Ben and Sam revisit their discussion from last week on aces in October, talk about the new old Ichiro, and tell you more than you need to know about Orioles starter Steve Johnson. Tue, 25 Sep 2012 04:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 49: Another Attempt to Explain Why You Don't Need an Ace in October/The New Old Ichiro/The Steve Johnson Story Ben and Sam revisit their discussion from last week on aces in October, talk about the new old Ichiro, and tell you more than you need to know about Orioles starter Steve Johnson. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, ichiro suzuki, playoffs, aces, october, postseason, podcast, steve johnson, orioles, yankees http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18445 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18445 Ben and Sam size up this winter's free-agent first basemen and estimate how much money James Loney will make, then talk about whether the Dodgers' pursuit of a playoff spot is leading to dangerous decisions. Mon, 24 Sep 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 48: What We Would Pay James Loney/Are the Dodgers Trying Too Hard? Ben and Sam size up this winter's free-agent first basemen and estimate how much money James Loney will make, then talk about whether the Dodgers' pursuit of a playoff spot is leading to dangerous decisions. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, james loney, podcast, dodgers, casey kotchman http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18419 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18419 Ben and Sam discuss whether Alex Anthopoulos is taking too long to turn around Toronto, then talk about why we can't find the secret to success in October. Also, Sam drops his wedding ring. Fri, 21 Sep 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 47: Is the Alex Anthopoulos Honeymoon Over?/Why Can't We Figure Out What Works in the Playoffs? Ben and Sam discuss whether Alex Anthopoulos is taking too long to turn around Toronto, then talk about why we can't find the secret to success in October. Also, Sam drops his wedding ring. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, alex anthopoulos, blue jays, podcast, effectively wild, playoffs, postseason http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18406 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18406 Ben and Sam talk about how we talk about the AL MVP debate, then discuss Mike Trout's ability to adjust from at-bat to at-bat. Thu, 20 Sep 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 46: The Meta-AL MVP Debate/Mike Trout's In-Game Adjustments Ben and Sam talk about how we talk about the AL MVP debate, then discuss Mike Trout's ability to adjust from at-bat to at-bat. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, mike trout, miguel cabrera, al mvp, awards, award voting, award discussion http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18392 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18392 Ben and Sam discuss whether teams will get creative with their Wild Card rosters, then talk about Miguel Cabrera's Triple Crown chances and why we should care if he wins. Wed, 19 Sep 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 45: What the Wild Card Games Could Look Like/Miguel Cabrera and the Triple Crown Ben and Sam discuss whether teams will get creative with their Wild Card rosters, then talk about Miguel Cabrera's Triple Crown chances and why we should care if he wins. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, triple crown, wild card, playoffs, roster rules, miguel cabrera http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18385 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18385 Ben and Sam discuss the Giants' starting rotation and decide what it would take to trust Barry Zito, then talk about how they decide which teams to root for. Tue, 18 Sep 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 44: Sizing Up the Giants' Starters/Rooting for Run Differential Ben and Sam discuss the Giants' starting rotation and decide what it would take to trust Barry Zito, then talk about how they decide which teams to root for. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, giants, tim lincecum, barry zito, playoff starters, playoff rotation, orioles, run differential http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18364 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18364 Ben and Sam talk about why they haven't talked about the Reds more often, then discuss whether Anthony Rizzo has proved his critics wrong. Mon, 17 Sep 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 43: The Under-the-Radar Reds/Was Anthony Rizzo's Scouting Report Wrong? Ben and Sam talk about why they haven't talked about the Reds more often, then discuss whether Anthony Rizzo has proved his critics wrong. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, anthony rizzo, cubs, reds, bronson arroyo http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18342 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18342 Ben and Sam discuss the Orioles' exciting 14-inning victory over Tampa Bay, then break down Rafael Soriano's season and his upcoming opt-out decision. Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 42: Breaking Down Baltimore's Latest Extra-Inning Win/Should Rafael Soriano Opt Out? Ben and Sam discuss the Orioles' exciting 14-inning victory over Tampa Bay, then break down Rafael Soriano's season and his upcoming opt-out decision. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, orioles, rays, buck showalter, manny machado, yankees, rafael soriano, mariano rivera http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18330 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18330 Ben and Sam discuss the state of the Brewers, which is a lot like the state of the Phillies, then talk about Max Scherzer's long-awaited improvement and which team won the 2009 trade that brought him to Detroit. Thu, 13 Sep 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 41: The Brewers Are Back in Contention, Technically/Max Scherzer and the Tigers' 2009 Trade Revisited Ben and Sam discuss the state of the Brewers, which is a lot like the state of the Phillies, then talk about Max Scherzer's long-awaited improvement and which team won the 2009 trade that brought him to Detroit. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, brewers, phillies, tigers, max scherzer, trade, curtis granderson, austin jackson http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18321 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18321 Ben and Sam discuss whether the Phillies' recent run of success should affect our expectations for the team in 2013, then talk about a potential scheme to get drafted pitchers into big-league bullpens quickly. Wed, 12 Sep 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 40: The Phillies' Return to 500/A Modest Bullpen Proposal Ben and Sam discuss whether the Phillies' recent run of success should affect our expectations for the team in 2013, then talk about a potential scheme to get drafted pitchers into big-league bullpens quickly. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, phillies, bullpen, starters, draft picks, pitching http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18301 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18301 Ben and Sam thank their listeners for being more numerous than Astros fans who watch the team on TV, dissect Wilin Rosario's defense, and pick the most likely candidates for 2013 Comeback Player of the Year. Tue, 11 Sep 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 39: Outdrawing the Astros, Wilin Rosario's Deadly Defense, and the Comeback Players of 2013 Ben and Sam thank their listeners for being more numerous than Astros fans who watch the team on TV, dissect Wilin Rosario's defense, and pick the most likely candidates for 2013 Comeback Player of the Year. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, Astros, wilin rosario, comeback player of the year, defense, catcher defense, injuries http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18289 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18289 Ben and Sam discuss Yadier Molina's career year, catcher defense, and catcher aging, then talk about Omar Vizquel and the point at which clubhouse chemistry can't cancel out poor on-field production. Mon, 10 Sep 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 38: The Greatness of Yadier Molina and the Not-So-Greatness of Omar Vizquel Ben and Sam discuss Yadier Molina's career year, catcher defense, and catcher aging, then talk about Omar Vizquel and the point at which clubhouse chemistry can't cancel out poor on-field production. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, omar vizquel, yadier molina, catching, catcher, defense, cardinals, blue jays, clubhouse presence, chemistry http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18261 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18261 Ben and Sam discuss the Tigers' predictably bad defense and the unpredictably bad Brandon Wood. Fri, 07 Sep 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 37: The Tigers' Defense is What We Thought it Was/Brandon Wood and the Quad-A Player Ben and Sam discuss the Tigers' predictably bad defense and the unpredictably bad Brandon Wood. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, brandon wood, tigers, defense, detroit tigers, predictions, prospects, projections, quad-a, quadruple-A player http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18246 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18246 It's an all-AL East episode, as Ben and substitute co-host Jason Wojciechowski discuss a counterproductive proposal to fix what ails the Yankees, then talk about the latest Bobby Valentine controversy. Thu, 06 Sep 2012 02:01:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 36: How Not to Solve the Yankees' Problems/Bobby Valentine Says Some More Strange Things It's an all-AL East episode, as Ben and substitute co-host Jason Wojciechowski discuss a counterproductive proposal to fix what ails the Yankees, then talk about the latest Bobby Valentine controversy. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, yankees, red sox, bobby valentine, kevin long, bunting, media http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18239 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18239 Ben and Sam consider whether the ballpark might be to blame for the Rockies' lackluster first two decades, then discuss the annual phenomenon of attendance shaming. Wed, 05 Sep 2012 08:58:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 35: Is Coors Field to Blame for the Rockies' Struggles?/Are Fans at Fault When Teams Don't Draw? Ben and Sam consider whether the ballpark might be to blame for the Rockies' lackluster first two decades, then discuss the annual phenomenon of attendance shaming. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, attendance, attendance shaming, rockies, coors field, four-man rotation, rays, orioles, braves, chipper jones, adam jones, david price, evan longoria http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18220 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18220 Ben and Sam discuss two baseball mysteries: the Orioles' success in 2012, and MLB's blackout policy. Tue, 04 Sep 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 34: Making Sense of the Orioles and MLB's Blackout Policy Ben and Sam discuss two baseball mysteries: the Orioles' success in 2012, and MLB's blackout policy. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, mlb, mlbam, blackout policy, streaming, mlb.tv, market, orioles, run differential http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18205 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18205 Ben and Sam slum it with a bunch of bad teams from baseball's underclass and speculate about which has the least hope of going all the way before 2022, then discuss Jimmy Rollins' benching and how much running out a popup really matters. Fri, 31 Aug 2012 09:28:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 33: The Least Likely Team to Win a World Series In the Next 10 Years/Does it Matter if Jimmy Rollins Jogs? Ben and Sam slum it with a bunch of bad teams from baseball's underclass and speculate about which has the least hope of going all the way before 2022, then discuss Jimmy Rollins' benching and how much running out a popup really matters. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, jimmy rollins, padres, benching, hustle, phillies, charlie manuel, orioles, indians, marlins, world series http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18184 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18184 Ben and Sam discuss whether a team should have claimed Joe Mauer, what he's worth, and what his future will look like, then talk about the end of Erik Bedard's stay in Pittsburgh and how sad it is when a guy who's always either good or injured goes bad. Thu, 30 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 32: Joe Mauer and his Contract Clear Waivers/The Demise of Erik Bedard Ben and Sam discuss whether a team should have claimed Joe Mauer, what he's worth, and what his future will look like, then talk about the end of Erik Bedard's stay in Pittsburgh and how sad it is when a guy who's always either good or injured goes bad. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, joe mauer, catcher, contract, waivers, claim, hall of fame, erik bedard, pirates, pitching, peripherals http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18169 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18169 Ben and Sam discuss sabermetric managerial favorite Davey Johnson's impact on the Nationals, whether certain managers can make their players play better, and what the ideal relationship between a GM and manager might be. Wed, 29 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 31: Davey Johnson, How Much Managers Matter, and the Ideal GM-Manager Relationship Ben and Sam discuss sabermetric managerial favorite Davey Johnson's impact on the Nationals, whether certain managers can make their players play better, and what the ideal relationship between a GM and manager might be. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, nationals, davey johnson, managers, stephen strasburg, mike rizzo, GM, front office http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18161 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18161 Ben and Sam question the conclusions of an article in The Atlantic about racial bias in baseball broadcasting, then talk about whether Brian McCann's best is behind him and whether his down year is the result of bad hitting hitting or bad luck. Tue, 28 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 30: Is There Racial Bias in Baseball Broadcasting?/What to Make of Brian McCann Ben and Sam question the conclusions of an article in The Atlantic about racial bias in baseball broadcasting, then talk about whether Brian McCann's best is behind him and whether his down year is the result of bad hitting hitting or bad luck. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, racial bias, nationalism, racism, broadcasting, baseball TV, brian mccann, braves, catchers http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18149 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18149 Ben and Sam discuss the futures of the two teams involved in the weekend's blockbuster trade, then talk about whether the Astros would benefit from signing Roger Clemens. Mon, 27 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 29: The Future of the Red Sox and Dodgers, and Roger Clemens' Comeback Ben and Sam discuss the futures of the two teams involved in the weekend's blockbuster trade, then talk about whether the Astros would benefit from signing Roger Clemens. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, red sox, dodgers, astros, roger clemens, trade, adrian gonzalez http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18127 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18127 Ben and Sam discuss Austin Jackson's excellent catch, whether he's the best defensive center fielder in baseball, and whether it's even possible to decide one way or another, then dissect Seattle's eight-game winning streak to see if it's the start of something good or a fluke that will soon be forgotten. Fri, 24 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 28: Austin Jackson and Debating Defense/What Does the Mariners' Winning Streak Mean? Ben and Sam discuss Austin Jackson's excellent catch, whether he's the best defensive center fielder in baseball, and whether it's even possible to decide one way or another, then dissect Seattle's eight-game winning streak to see if it's the start of something good or a fluke that will soon be forgotten. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, austin jackson, peter bourjos, defense, detroit tigers, seattle mariners, mariners, felix hernandez http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18113 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18113 Ben and Sam revisit the trade that sent Dan Haren to the Angels in light of Haren's down year and Tyler Skaggs' debut for the Diamondbacks, then talk about how Derek Jeter has remained productive at age 38 and examine whether the Yankees are in any trouble in the AL East. Thu, 23 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 27: Revisiting the Dan Haren Trade/Derek Jeter Defies Dire Forecasts Ben and Sam revisit the trade that sent Dan Haren to the Angels in light of Haren's down year and Tyler Skaggs' debut for the Diamondbacks, then talk about how Derek Jeter has remained productive at age 38 and examine whether the Yankees are in any trouble in the AL East. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, Derek jeter, yankees, new york yankees, shortstops, dan haren, joe saunders, tyler skaggs, arizona diamondbacks, angels, los angeles angels of anaheim, pat corbin http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18096 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18096 Ben and Sam talk about Brett Anderson's Tuesday return from Tommy John surgery and its impact on Oakland's potential playoff rotation, then discuss whether Stephen Drew would be wise to test the free-agent market this winter in light of the other shortstops available. Wed, 22 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 26: The Return of Brett Anderson, Oakland's Playoff Rotation, and the Financial Future of Stephen Drew Ben and Sam talk about Brett Anderson's Tuesday return from Tommy John surgery and its impact on Oakland's potential playoff rotation, then discuss whether Stephen Drew would be wise to test the free-agent market this winter in light of the other shortstops available. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, Oakland a's, playoff rotations, brett anderson, stephen drew, positional scarcity, free agency, tommy john surgery, bartolo colon, brandon mccarthy http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18080 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18080 Ben and Sam discuss Kenny Williams' contention that the poorly rated White Sox farm system is just misunderstood, then consider whether the Cubs should be concerned about Starlin Castro's makeup. Tue, 21 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 25: The Secretly Successful White Sox System?/Starlin Castro's Makeup Concerns Ben and Sam discuss Kenny Williams' contention that the poorly rated White Sox farm system is just misunderstood, then consider whether the Cubs should be concerned about Starlin Castro's makeup. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, white sox, kenny williams, farm system, prospects, prospect rankings, scouting, dayan viciedo, addison reed, chris sale, cubs, starlin castro, makeup, extension http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18067 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18067 The Rays demolished the Angels in a four-game weekend sweep, which gives Ben and Sam the idea to discuss the two teams' divergent directions since the deadline and reevaluate Anaheim's offseason approach. Mon, 20 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 24: The Rays Are Rolling/Assessing the Angels' Strange Season The Rays demolished the Angels in a four-game weekend sweep, which gives Ben and Sam the idea to discuss the two teams' divergent directions since the deadline and reevaluate Anaheim's offseason approach. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, angels, rays, jerry dipoto, evan longoria, albert pujols, wild card, american league http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18051 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18051 Ben and Sam discuss the possibility that the Nationals might enter the playoffs without either Bryce Harper or Stephen Strasburg, then talk about how the White Sox have defied injuries yet again and proved the pre-season predictions wrong. Fri, 17 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 23: Benching Bryce Harper/Why We Were Wrong About the White Sox Ben and Sam discuss the possibility that the Nationals might enter the playoffs without either Bryce Harper or Stephen Strasburg, then talk about how the White Sox have defied injuries yet again and proved the pre-season predictions wrong. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, nationals, nats, bryce harper, stephen strasburg, playoffs, white sox, herm schneider, trainer, health, chicago white sox, injuries http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18032 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18032 Ben and Sam discuss how they came to know that Melky Cabrera was about to be suspended for a positive PED test before the news broke, and how they decided what to do about it. Thu, 16 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 22: Why BP Didn't Break the Melky Cabrera Suspension Ben and Sam discuss how they came to know that Melky Cabrera was about to be suspended for a positive PED test before the news broke, and how they decided what to do about it. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, melky cabrera, giants, san francisco giants, PED, suspension, news, rumors, MLB http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18012 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18012 Ben and Sam reach a milestone (the 20-minute mark) as they tackle the topics of clubhouse chemistry and whether there's more to Jeff Mathis than meets the eye. Wed, 15 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 21: Typewriter Ben and Sam reach a milestone (the 20-minute mark) as they tackle the topics of clubhouse chemistry and whether there's more to Jeff Mathis than meets the eye. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, chemistry, royals, clubhouse chemistry, kansas city royals, rany jazayerli, jeff mathis, blue jays, extensions, catcher defense http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18003 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=18003 Ben and Sam discuss the significance of a potential big-league promotion for Jurickson Profar and investigate the link between Johan Santana's no-hitter and his subsequent struggles. Tue, 14 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 20: Elephant Ben and Sam discuss the significance of a potential big-league promotion for Jurickson Profar and investigate the link between Johan Santana's no-hitter and his subsequent struggles. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, johan santana, podcast, jurickson profar, mets, terry collins, rangers, prospects http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17986 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17986 Ben and Sam discuss the impact of CC Sabathia's elbow soreness on the Yankees' short- and long-term outlooks, and the difference between winning a division and winning a wild card under the new playoff format. Mon, 13 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 19: Scraping Ice Ben and Sam discuss the impact of CC Sabathia's elbow soreness on the Yankees' short- and long-term outlooks, and the difference between winning a division and winning a wild card under the new playoff format. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, cc sabathia, yankees, injuries, elbow injuries, elbow stiffness, playoffs, playoff odds, wild card, playoff format, angels http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17968 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17968 Ben and Sam discuss two players exceeding all expectations in 2012: R.A. Dickey and Eric Chavez. Fri, 10 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 18: Popcorn Popping Ben and Sam discuss two players exceeding all expectations in 2012: R.A. Dickey and Eric Chavez. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, r.a. dickey, eric chavez, injuries, yankees, platoons http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17958 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17958 Ben and Sam discuss Manny Machado's surprising promotion to the majors and Roy Oswalt's tumultuous transition to the bullpen. Thu, 09 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 17: Manny Comin' Ben and Sam discuss Manny Machado's surprising promotion to the majors and Roy Oswalt's tumultuous transition to the bullpen. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, roy oswalt, manny machado, rangers, orioles, relievers, starters, conversions, prospects, call-up, mike trout http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17943 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17943 Ben and Sam discuss the significance of Mike Trout's 21st birthday and Mets manager Terry Collin's comments about injured reliever Tim Byrdak's workload. Wed, 08 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 16: Sonar Ben and Sam discuss the significance of Mike Trout's 21st birthday and Mets manager Terry Collin's comments about injured reliever Tim Byrdak's workload. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, mike trout, tim byrdak, injuries, vada pinson, mets, terry collins, pitcher usage http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17922 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17922 Ben and Sam talk about the presents, futures, and contracts of two starters having interesting seasons: Cliff Lee and Ben Sheets. Tue, 07 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 15: Cat Fight Ben and Sam talk about the presents, futures, and contracts of two starters having interesting seasons: Cliff Lee and Ben Sheets. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, starters, contracts, cliff lee, ben sheets, braves, dodgers http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17910 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17910 Ben and Sam discuss the Royals, and then they discuss the Royals some more. Mon, 06 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 14: This is Gonna Be Ugly Ben and Sam discuss the Royals, and then they discuss the Royals some more. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, royals, kansas city royals http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17886 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17886 Ben and Sam discuss two outfielders in the news: Yoenis Cespedes and Jayson Werth. Fri, 03 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 13: TIE Fighter Ben and Sam discuss two outfielders in the news: Yoenis Cespedes and Jayson Werth. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, Yoenis Cespedes, Jayson Werth http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17870 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17870 Ben and Sam discuss players who turn down trades to contenders, Yu Darvish, and their standards for playoff starters. Thu, 02 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 12: Sam Walks to His Honda Ben and Sam discuss players who turn down trades to contenders, Yu Darvish, and their standards for playoff starters. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, yu darvish, texas rangers, trade, trade deadline, no-trade clause, carlos lee, alfonso soriano, playoffs, playoff starter http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17857 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17857 Ben and Sam reevaluate the NL West after the deadline and take stock of this season's converted starters. Wed, 01 Aug 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 11: Train Crossing Ben and Sam reevaluate the NL West after the deadline and take stock of this season's converted starters. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, trade deadline, deadline, relievers, starters, bullpen, rotation, conversion, nl west, neftali feliz, giants, dodgers, chris sale, daniel bard http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17836 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17836 Ben and Sam discuss whether the Orioles should be buyers and what teams mean when they dub a prospect "untouchable." Tue, 31 Jul 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 10: Splash Ben and Sam discuss whether the Orioles should be buyers and what teams mean when they dub a prospect "untouchable." Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, orioles, prospects, untouchable prospects, baltimore orioles, buyers, sellers, trade deadline http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17829 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17829 After a weekend sweep of the Giants by the Dodgers, Ben and Sam size up the NL West and discuss a hot Matt Moore-on-Mike Trout match-up. Mon, 30 Jul 2012 08:30:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 9: Homer and Marge After a weekend sweep of the Giants by the Dodgers, Ben and Sam size up the NL West and discuss a hot Matt Moore-on-Mike Trout match-up. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, effectively wild, podcast, nl west, giants, dodgers, diamondbacks, padres, mike trout, matt moore, canada, hatchet http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17796 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17796 Sam and Ian talk about the major-league debut of the Mets' Matt Harvey. Fri, 27 Jul 2012 00:59:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 8: Screen Door Sam and Ian talk about the major-league debut of the Mets' Matt Harvey. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, Matt Harvey http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17783 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17783 Ben and Sam examine how the Nationals have gone about implementing and publicizing Stephen Strasburg's innings limit and revisit Billy Beane's trades from last winter in light of Oakland's success. Thu, 26 Jul 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 7: Duck Ben and Sam examine how the Nationals have gone about implementing and publicizing Stephen Strasburg's innings limit and revisit Billy Beane's trades from last winter in light of Oakland's success. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, stephen strasburg, washington nationals, nationals, innings limits, A's, oakland A's, athletics, oakland athletics, billy beane, trades, gio gonzalez http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17765 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17765 Ben and Sam discuss the fallout from the Ryan Dempster debacle and a fascinating factoid about the Phillies' staff. Wed, 25 Jul 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 6: Doorbell Ben and Sam discuss the fallout from the Ryan Dempster debacle and a fascinating factoid about the Phillies' staff. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, leaks, rumors, secrecy, ryan dempster, phillies, defense, cy young, joe blanton, cliff lee http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17758 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17758 Ben and Sam discuss Ichiro's trade to the Yankees and the Tigers-Marlins swap. Tue, 24 Jul 2012 08:15:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 5: Foghorn Ben and Sam discuss Ichiro's trade to the Yankees and the Tigers-Marlins swap. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, effectively wild, trade deadline, tigers, marlins, ichiro, ichiro suzuki, playoffs, mariners, yankees, omar infante, anibal sanchez http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17739 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17739 Ben and Sam discuss the disappointing Miami Marlins and resurgent southpaw Francisco Liriano. Mon, 23 Jul 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 4: Harp Ben and Sam discuss the disappointing Miami Marlins and resurgent southpaw Francisco Liriano. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, effectively wild, podcast, miami marlins, marlins, francisco liriano, trade deadline, minnesota twins http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17720 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17720 It's time to talk about the Texas Rangers. Fri, 20 Jul 2012 08:30:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 3: Thunder It's time to talk about the Texas Rangers. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, texas rangers, effectively wild, playoff odds, neftali feliz, relievers, starters, joba chamberlain, daniel bard, craig gentry http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17702 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17702 Since you enjoyed the first episode so much, we did a second one. Thu, 19 Jul 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild Episode 2: Explosion Since you enjoyed the first episode so much, we did a second one. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, trevor bauer, podcast, effectively wild, prospects http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17683 http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=17683 The first episode of BP's new daily podcast is ready for your ears, if your ears are ready for it. Wed, 18 Jul 2012 05:00:00 -0700 Baseball Prospectus No Effectively Wild: The Daily Baseball Prospectus Podcast The first episode of BP's new daily podcast is ready for your ears, if your ears are ready for it. Baseball, MLB, Prospectus, Baseball Prospectus, podcast, effectively wild, baltimore orioles, aroldis chapman