The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast

A Programming Update for 2023

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 19:05:00 GMT

Derek VanRiper shares the changes coming to The Athletic's fantasy baseball podcasts for the 2023 season.

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Under the Radarrrrrr Series Finale

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 23:33:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss Aaron Judge's return to the Bronx with a nine-year deal that paves the way for him to remain a career Yankee, the frenzy of activity around this year's Winter Meetings, how varying front-office strategies, like varying fantasy baseball strategies, make the game more fun, whether a five-year deal for Jacob deGrom should make us more confident in his chances of a healthy season in 2023, several mid-round values in early drafts, and an important update about the show.

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Putting a Bow on the 2022 Fantasy Baseball Season

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 22:55:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the end of a very successful 2022 fantasy baseball season, and a few takeaways from things that ultimately went right, before going on hiatus during the playoffs.

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Late Loopholes, Navigating the Endgame & Staying Patient

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 20:05:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss a variety of topics including a potential late-season loophole in keeper leagues, a pair of rapidly-rising pitchers in the minors, trying to navigate the final days of the season while chasing a championship, Josh Jung, and staying patient with CJ Abrams.

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Takeaways From the 2022 Fantasy Baseball Season

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 16:00:00 GMT

DVR and Al share their takeaways from the 2022 fantasy baseball season. The steady stream of prospect promotions was one of the distinguishing features of this season, and DVR and Al consider whether this is now a lasting part of baseball's landscape, and they focus on some surprisingly impactful rookies, including Vinnie Pasquantino and Spencer Strider. They also discuss how they view this season's scarcity of players with 20-plus saves and 20-plus homers, and how they plan to approach drafting for steals in 2023 drafts.

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The Final Waiver Wire Show for 2022

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 22:13:48 GMT

For the last time during the 2022 season, DVR and Al take a look at the waiver wire options for the coming weekend. They discuss how much recent callups Ezequiel Tovar and Jordan Diaz could help fantasy managers, and they consider the types of leagues where Harrison Bader, Carlos Santana, Taylor Ward and Nate Eaton are worth adding. Luis Ortiz, Drey Jameson, Hayden Wesneski and Cody Morris are among the starting pitchers discussed, and DVR and Al then consider whether there are still any relievers worth adding for the final scoring period.

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Late-Season Surprises, Tipping the Cap, Eloy's Ceiling & Feats of Judge

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 19:45:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss a few late-season surprises -- including Bubba Thompson's massive contributions as a source of stolen bases -- the incredible Adolis García follow-up, Eloy Jiménez's ceiling and 2023 appeal, gut reactions on 'liking v. not liking' a player, and Aaron Judge reaches the 60-homer milestone.

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Making Sense of 2022's Hitter Barrel Rate Risers and Fallers

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 23:28:29 GMT

DVR and Al take a look at the hitters who had the largest year-to-year increases and decreases in their barrel rates. Among the top risers discussed are Aaron Judge, Yordan Alvarez, Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Christian Walker, while Ronald Acuña Jr., George Springer, Tyler O'Neill and Avisaíl García are some of the fallers considered.

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Waiver Wire Options for Week 25

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 22:04:46 GMT

DVR and Al break down the FAB options on this penultimate waiver wire episode. They discuss recent callups Josh Jung and Mark Vientos, as well as the Rockies' possible callup for Ezequiel Tovar. They also discuss Elvis Andrus' remarkable comeback and several outfielders and catchers who may still be free agents. Brayan Bello, Ryne Nelson and Drey Jameson are among the free agent pitching options, and DVR and Al also consider some starters in the Orioles' and Cubs' rotations. They finish up with an update on the Rays' and Marlins' closer situations.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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The General Has Mark Kotsay's Back!

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 03:39:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss rebelling relievers, George Washington taking the side of Mark Kotsay, growing excitement for the playoffs, Michael Harris II's soaring stock, tightly clustered wins, the growing case for working with a co-manager, and another gem from D-backs rookie Ryne Nelson.

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Making Sense of 2022's Hitter Strikeout Rate Risers and Fallers

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 17:20:26 GMT

DVR and Al look into the hitters who saw the largest surges and drops in their strikeout rates from 2021, and they see if those changes could make any difference in their 2023 fantasy value. Among the strikeout rate fallers discussed are Taylor Trammell, Javier Báez, Alec Bohm and Josh Rojas, while Jo Adell, Trevor Story, Matt Olson and Byron Buxton are some of the strikeout risers considered.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Waiver Wire Options for Week 24

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 22:41:57 GMT

DVR and Al discuss where fantasy managers should add a pair of Rangers callups -- top prospect Josh Jung and 24-year-old catcher Sam Huff. They also talk about Triston Casas' fantasy appeal, the chances for a rebound from Yoán Moncada and Mets hitters who could benefit from a favorable schedule. They consider the streaming and longer-term appeal of rookie pitchers Hunter Brown, Cody Morris and Ryne Nelson and how to approach Bailey Falter's upcoming two-start week.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Lewis Brinson in San Francisco, a Late Push for Abrams & Avoiding the Top Prospect Chase

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 20:15:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss Lewis Brinson's opportunity with the Giants, Felix Bautista's soaring long-term value, the benefits of the O's decision to move back the fences in left field, Juan Soto's missing power since being traded to San Diego, a case for CJ Abrams as a late-season pickup in redraft leagues, Aaron Judge v. Shohei Ohtani in the AL MVP battle, faint praise for Matt Manning, and Spencer Strider's ascent to ace status.

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A Recap of the 2022 Rookie Pitcher Class

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 17:14:00 GMT

DVR and Al look back (and a little bit ahead) on the 2022 seasons produced by rookie pitchers. They focus on Spencer Strider, George Kirby and Shane Baz as starters who could be fantasy aces in the near future, and they also look at some rookie starters who made strong cases for their fantasy draft status in 2023, including Reid Detmers and Nick Lodolo. DVR and Al also try to make sense of mixed seasons from McKenzie Gore, Aaron Ashby and others, and they discuss rookie relievers, such as Félix Bautista, Jhoan Duran and Andrés Muñoz, who could make an even bigger impact next season.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Waiver Wire Options for Week 23

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 22:07:21 GMT

Are there waiver options to target beyond Corbin Carroll and Gunnar Henderson? DVR and Al discuss the bevy of players who are worth pursuing in the coming weekend's FAB bidding, and they also talk about whether Carroll or Henderson would be their highest priority, Included in the discussion are September additions Oswald Peraza, Spencer Steer, Ken Waldichuk, Cody Morris and Hunter Brown, and they also talk about which Cardinals hitters to target, given their favorable upcoming schedule. Also, is Jimmy Herget the best waiver wire reliever for saves right now?

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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A Recap of the 2022 Rookie Hitter Class

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 17:02:55 GMT

DVR and Al take a look at this season's still-evolving class of rookie hitters. They consider the case to be made for Julio Rodríguez and Bobby Witt Jr. as 2023 first-round picks and look into the future fantasy value of several other rookies, including Adley Rutschman, Jose Miranda, Nolan Gorman, Riley Greene and Oneil Cruz. They also discuss several rookie hitters who may deserve more attention, including Nolan Jones, Christopher Morel and Joey Bart.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Back at Full Strength (That's Debatable!)

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 23:23:00 GMT

Nando is back with Ian and DVR to discuss Hunter Brown's late-season opportunity with the Astros, a thinning pool at second base -- differing expectations for Nolan Gorman in Year 2 -- premiums for positional scarcity, and the best owner in baseball preparing to walk away.

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Corbin Carroll's Debut and A Final Prospect Roundup for 2022

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 17:08:31 GMT

DVR and Al discuss the major league debuts of Corbin Carroll, Garrett Mitchell and Cade Cavalli and assess their fantasy appeal for the remainder of this season and for the longer term. They also take their final look at prospects whose status has risen in 2022, including Jackson Chourio, Kyle Manzardo and Tanner Bibee.

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Waiver Wire Options for Week 22

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 22:12:08 GMT

DVR and Al consider whether it's worth stashing Orioles infield prospect Gunnar Henderson, now that it's anticipated that he will make his debut sometime this season, and they discuss whether it's still worth adding Manuel Margot, Lars Nootbaar, Albert Pujols and Keston Hiura. They also talk about where to add Nationals pitching prospect Cade Cavalli, as well as two-start pitchers like Matt Manning and Spenser Watkins. DVR and Al wrap up with a discussion of the closer situations for the Padres, Cubs, Astros and Rays.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Lessons Learned With Drafting Saves and Steals

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 17:14:34 GMT

DVR and Al revisit their strategies for drafting saves heading into the 2022 season and ask whether targeting elite closers like Josh Hader and Liam Hendriks was worth it. They also consider some emerging candidates for saves for 2023. DVR and Al also discuss how they went about addressing the stolen base category this season and look at the future fantasy viability of players like Thairo Estrada, Nico Hoerner and Cody Bellinger.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Choosing Luxury in Roster Construction, Story's Slide & Tough In-Season Pitching Decisions

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 22:28:00 GMT

Ian and DVR discuss choosing a luxury -- elite catchers v. elite closers -- in the roster construction process, disagreement about the 2023 expectations for Trevor Story, a big step forward from Jordan Montgomery to begin his time in St. Louis, and the various factors they consider when facing difficult in-season pitching matchup decisions.

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Gunnar Henderson's Promotion Chances Plus Double-A Standouts

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 01:38:00 GMT

DVR and Al consider whether Gunnar Henderson and Josh Jung are likely to join Corbin Carroll as top prospects who could be due to make a major league debut late this season. They also discuss the recent promotions of Brett Baty, Oswaldo Cabrera, Estevan Florial, Drew Waters and Javier Assad, and they look at Cody Morris' encouraging performance in Triple-A. Finally, they focus on players who have performed well at Double-A in this week's level roundup.

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Waiver Wire Options for Week 21

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 21:43:52 GMT

Al and Eno react to the report that Corbin Carroll is expected to get called up this season and discuss the fantasy appeal of some recently promoted prospects, including Brett Baty, Estevan Florial and Oswaldo Cabrera. They also consider who might benefit from the Phillies' and Mariners' favorable hitting matchups. Al and Eno also talk about the return of Dustin May and several streaming options, such as Michael Wacha, Ross Stripling, Drew Smyly and Justin Steele. Finally, they determine who might be worth targeting in the Yankees', Rays' and Marlins' bullpens.,

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Players We've Largely Ignored in 2022

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 19:03:44 GMT

DVR and Al talk about several players who have come up infrequently on previous episodes this season. They kick off their discussion of pitchers by trying to solve a puzzle regarding Corbin Burnes' recent trends, and they move on to discuss Pablo López, Kevin Gausman, Lance Lynn and several others, Among hitters, they discuss Francisco Lindor, José Abreu, DJ LeMahieu and Ke'Bryan Hayes.

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Long-Term Expectations with Short-Term Implications

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 18:53:00 GMT

Ian and DVR discuss Ian's final Dynasty Rankings update for 2022 including Julio Rodríguez atop the list -- the implications of long-term shifts in value on the 2023 redraft landscape, how the Fernando Tatis Jr. suspension impacts his outlook, Michael Harris' ceiling, a case for Tyler O'Neill as a player to target now in short-term and long-term leagues, and much more.

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

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Vaughn Grissom Gets The Call Plus A Low-A Roundup

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 17:07:55 GMT

On this Prospect Tuesday episode, DVR and Al discuss whether they see CJ Abrams' move to the Nationals as a positive for him, and they also consider what Ryan Pepiot's role with the Dodgers will likely be over the remainder of the 2022 season. They also talk about recent callups Vaughn Grissom, Tyler Freeman and Tommy Henry and consider the likelihood of Brett Baty or Mark Vientos joining the Mets this season. This week's level roundup focuses on players performing well at Low-A.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Waiver Wire Options for Week 20

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 22:13:42 GMT

DVR and Al assess the waiver options for the coming weekend, starting with Braves prospect Vaughn Grissom. They also consider where fantasy managers should target Aledmys Díaz, Nick Gordon, Lars Nootbar and several other hitters. DVR and Al differ on the degree to which they will make adding Lance McCullers Jr. a priority, and they also discuss JP Sears, José Quintana and Kris Bubic as streaming options. Finally, they consider whether Rowan Wick is the only reliever worth pursuing for saves.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Players With Surprising Second-Half Trends

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 17:01:00 GMT

DVR and Al spend this episode highlighting players who have performed in ways that are inconsistent with their track records in the second half so far. From Corey Seager's reduction in strikeouts to Ryan McMahon's stolen base binge to Reid Detmers' overall improvement, they look at players who are contributing in unexpected ways. They also discuss players like Jake Cronenworth, Jeremy Peña and Sean Manaea who have not recently produced as much as expected.

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Approaching the Final Third of the Season

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 00:05:00 GMT

Ian and DVR discuss their approach to the final-third of the season, including players to pursue in long-term leagues on the waiver wire. Plus, the recent struggles of Josh Hader, playing for the future in trade, long term expectations for Alec Bohm, Nolan Jones and Luis García, Ian's lack of faith in Luis Robert, Austin Riley's rise in the third-base ranks, and much more.

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

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Trade Deadline Follow-Up and a High-A Roundup

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 17:19:05 GMT

DVR and Al follow up on some of the prospects dealt before last week's trade deadline, including C.J. Abrams, MacKenzie Gore, Robert Hassell III, Christian Encarnacion-Strand and Logan O'Hoppe. They also discuss some recently promoted prospects, such as Michael Massey and Peyton Burdick, and consider the possibility of Ryan Pepiot and Shea Langeliers getting promoted soon. They wind up with a roundup of High-A standouts, highlighted by Rays first baseman Kyle Manzardo.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Waiver Wire Options for Week 19

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 22:05:10 GMT

DVR and Al sort through a potentially busy week of FAB bidding, as they look into recent callups, like Miguel Vargas, Michael Massey and Tommy Henry, as well as players such as Jose Siri, Donovan Solano and Tucker Davidson, who stand to gain more prominent roles in the aftermath of the trade deadline. They also look at several intriguing closer situations, including the Rangers', Orioles', Angels' and Athletics'.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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A Post-Trade Deadline Depth Chart Dive

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 16:58:57 GMT

DVR and Al comb through several major league rosters, identifying which players stand to gain the most fantasy value by filling vacancies left by players dealt at the trade deadline. Among several situations, they look at how the Reds could fill the multiple holes left in their lineup and rotation, as well as the Angels' new-look rotation and the Cubs' suddenly-available closer job.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Reviewing a Very Busy Trade Deadline w/Patrick Davitt of Baseball HQ

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 09:00:00 GMT

Ian and DVR are joined by Patrick Davitt of Baseball HQ -- the voice of HQ Radio -- to discuss a very busy MLB Trade Deadline including the fallout from the blockbusters made by the Padres, the clear opportunity for a few young pitchers making the move to Oakland, a clear sense of direction from the Reds as they put a future core together, and the long-term appeal of Mike Trout in the midst of his current back injury.

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Noelvi Marte and Other Prospects Who Moved In Deadline Deals

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 16:44:53 GMT

It's a prospects edition of the podcast, but with a trade deadline twist. DVR and Al discuss a number of the prospects on the move as a result of deals occurring just before the trade deadline, including Noelvi Marte, Esteury Ruiz, Emmanuel Valdez, Ken Waldichuk and Hayden Wesneski. They also talk about the Juan Soto deal in real time, just as details were beginning to emerge.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Waiver Wire Options for Week 18

Fri, 29 Jul 2022 22:15:00 GMT

DVR and Al look into players who could benefit from player movement at the trade deadline and discuss whether fantasy managers should speculate on Corbin Carroll and Shea Langeliers, even with the uncertainty around their potential promotions. They also look at the recent improvements made by Jeimer Candelario and Bryson Stott and consider the fantasy appeal of recently-promoted JJ Bleday. DVR and Al also discuss pitchers who may be worth streaming, including Jake Junis, Corbin Martin and Janson Junk, and relievers who could become closers after the trade deadline, particularly on the Cubs' and Orioles' rosters.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Speculating on Trade Deadline Speculation

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 16:42:00 GMT

The trade deadline is upon us, and what's more fun than speculation on moves that might be made? Speculating on that speculation! Let Al and Beller explain on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast.

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Pitchers Fade Fast, Moving for Márquez & Buying Tyler Glasnow for 2023?

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Ian and DVR take a quick trip back to 2018 and consider how quickly pitchers can fade. Will Blake Snell ever recapture his Cy Young level form? Are there any older pitchers that could have a surprising late-career renaissance. Is there a brief window to stash Germán Márquez now in case he's among the group of pitchers traded at the deadline. Plus, Ian gets a look at the new and improved Reid Detmers.

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JJ Bleday and Nick Pratto Debut Plus a Triiple-A Roundup

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 17:05:58 GMT

DVR and Al consider the fantasy relevance of JJ Bleday, Nick Pratto and Ethan Small, all of whom recently got the call to the majors. They also discuss whether Edward Cabrera and Triston Casas should be on the radar of redraft league managers once they return from their respective injuries, and they wrap up with an overview of some Triple-A standouts, including Will Benson, Terrin Vavra and Kyle Muller.

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Waiver Wire Options for Week 17

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 23:22:00 GMT

Beller and DVR discuss a few intriguing waiver-wire considerations for the weekend and including the once-again healthy Evan Longoria, who continues to post a career-high barrel rate, glimmers of hope for Joey Bart, Trayce Thompson's intriguing underlying numbers, a chance for Josh Lowe to play more in Tampa Bay, Nick Pratto's promotion to the Royals, and a very thin group of pitchers as the weekend approaches.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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One Last Check on Closers Before the Trade Deadline

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 21:48:00 GMT

Relievers are always hot commodities at the trade deadline. Who will be on the move this season? And, more importantly in the fantasy world, who will scoop up the saves those traded players leave behind? Greg Jewett joins Al and Beller to break it down on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast.

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New Prospects, Dynasty Expiration Dates, Juan Soto, New Fantasy Ohtani Rules and Xander Bogaerts' Missing Homers

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 17:38:00 GMT

Ian and DVR are joined by Ariel Cohen (the real Ariel, not Ian playing the role of Ariel) to discuss when first-year player draft players should become available in keeper/dynasty leagues, why multi-year leagues always have an expiration date, the parallels between Juan Soto being available to MLB teams via trade and the rare instances of young stars getting moved in long-term fantasy leagues. Plus, the optimal ways to handle Shohei Ohtani in future years, Xander Bogaerts' missing power, and the never-ending pursuit of value.

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Max Meyer's Arrival, Futures Game Standouts and a 2022 MLB Draft Review

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 16:49:18 GMT

DVR and Al review Max Meyer's debut for the Marlins and find some positives in a mixed outing. They also consider the short- and long-term fantasy appeal of Freddy Tarnok and Taj Bradley, given their recent promotions to Triple-A. DVR and Al also discuss some standouts from the recent Futures Game, including Masyn Winn, Jasson Dominguez, Bobby Miller and Emerson Hancock. They wrap up with a summary of the 2022 MLB Draft and share how they prioritize college and high school players in fantasy drafts.

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Waiver Wire Options for Fantasy Week 16

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 22:17:35 GMT

DVR and Al have some mixed feelings about how aggressively to pursue Esteury Ruiz in FAB bidding, and they also consider their level of interest in Matt Carpenter, Jose Miranda and Akil Baddoo. Max Meyer headlines this week's pitching options, but DVR and Al also discuss the fantasy appeal of Marcus Stroman, Luis Patiño and Max Castillo. They also assess the staying power of a couple of newly-appointed closers in Brett Martin and Kyle Finnegan.

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Wrapping up the First Half with our Fantasy All-Star Teams

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 17:27:00 GMT

The looming All-Star Break provides a nice opportunity to look back at the first half of the season. Al and Beller do just that on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast by building their fantasy All-Star Teams.

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Trusting Tork, Late-Blooming Leody & Trashy Two-Start Pitchers

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 20:30:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss another intriguing prospect on the rise in San Diego, whether it's time to target Spencer Torkelson, their interest in Nolan Jones, Leody Taveras and Josh Smith, the triumphant return of Reid Detmers to the Angels' rotation, the difficulty of chasing volume with two-start pitchers throughout the second half of the season, and much more.

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Thoughts on Brayan Bello's Debut and A Futures Game Preview

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 17:11:00 GMT

DVR and Al consider the takeaways from Brayan Bello's and Nolan Jones' major league debuts, and they check in on a few prospects who are trending in fantasy leagues, including Shea Langeliers and Jackson Chourio. They also take a look at a few of the first-half standouts who will be playing in the Futures Game, such as Zac Veen and Hunter Brown.

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Waiver Wire Options for Fantasy Week 15

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 22:22:01 GMT

DVR and Al discuss whether Nathaniel Lowe's rising roster rate needs to climb even higher, and they consider where Guardians outfield prospect Nolan Jones should be added, now that he has been called up for his major league debut. Nick Lodolo, Brayan Bello and Reid Detmers are among the starting pitchers discussed, and DVR and Al look for saves targets in the Rangers' and Dodgers' bullpens.

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Taking the Fantasy Baseball Temperature of the Rangers, Diamondbacks and Guardians

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 17:55:00 GMT

It's a Beat Writer Day on The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. Levi Weaver (Rangers), Zach Buchanan (Diamondbacks) and Zack Meisel (Guardians) join Beller and Al to break down their teams from a fantasy perspective.

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Searching for Stolen Bases & Sneaky Good First-Half Performances

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 20:33:00 GMT

Ian and DVR discuss potential sources of stolen bases currently waiting for an opportunity in the upper levels of the minors, Nomar Mazara’s encouraging turnaround with the Padres, Jose Trevino’s case to remain the Yankees’ primary catcher (and path to steady fantasy value in the second half), Amed Rosario’s quietly solid campaign, the long-term difficulty of predicting Josh Bell, Taijuan Walker’s excellent ratios, Spencer Strider’s rest-of-season value, and more.

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Here Come Brayan Bello and David Villar Plus a Double-A Roundup

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 17:07:15 GMT

DVR and Al consider where to roster some of the latest prospect callups, including Brayan Bello, Darick Hall, David Villar and Garrett Hill. They also ponder whether to drop Josh Lowe and Vidal Bruján and if they should speculate on Miguel Vargas and Esteury Ruiz. This week's level roundup focuses on Double-A, and Jordan Walker and Eury Pérez are among the prospects discussed.

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Waiver Wire Options for Fantasy Week 14

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 22:12:09 GMT

Vinnie Pasquantino has finally arrived for the Royals, and DVR and Al discuss how much fantasy managers should be prepared to bid to add him this weekend. They also talk about other hitters to add, including Isaac Paredes, Darick Hall and Andrew McCutchen, and pitchers worth picking up, with Mitch White and Dean Kremer among them. DVR and Al also consider how to respond to Atlanta's current closer situation.

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Getting Perspective on First-Half Surprises

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 19:50:49 GMT

DVR and Al look at the surprisingly great first halves put together by players like Aaron Judge, Paul Goldschmidt, Dansby Swanson and Alek Manoah, as well as some players who have disappointed, including Wander Franco and Lucas Giolito. They also consider the second-half value of Clay Holmes and Jorge López, who sit atop the reliever Roto value rankings.

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Rebuilding Etiquette, Shaking Things Up & Patience with Spencer Howard?

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 20:10:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss rebuilding etiquette in keeper leagues, continued interest in Jarren Duran with a path to a larger role, Freddie Freeman's visit to Atlanta, the ensuing drama, and an increase in stealing bases as a way of shaking things up. Plus, Spencer Howard as a potential second-half surprise in Texas, and much more.

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Where to Add Vinnie Pasquantino, Josh H. Smith and Bligh Madris, Plus Class A Standouts

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 18:04:00 GMT

Should Royals first base prospect VInnie Pasquantino be added in all leagues, now that he has been called up? DVR and Al address this question, as well as look into the fantasy appeal of Michael Harris, Josh H. Smith, Jonathan Ananda and Bligh Madris. They also consider whether David Villar and Dominic Fletcher could see time in the majors in 2022 and turn their attention to some of the more intriguing players currently in Class A.

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Waiver Wire Options for Fantasy Week 13

Sat, 25 Jun 2022 19:54:00 GMT

DVR and Al consider whether Franmil Reyes and Luke Voit are worth targeting for fantasy managers searching for home run power, while also looking into C.J. Abrams, Jarren Duran and Jace Peterson as sources of stolen bases. Orioles Dean Kremer and Tyler Wells are among the pitching options to consider for this week's FAB bidding, and DVR and Al also explore several bullpen situations, including the Mariners'.

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Looking at Buy and Sell Opportunities with Michael Waterloo

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 19:43:00 GMT

Should fantasy managers be looking to buy or sell on C.J. Abrams, Lourdes Gurriel, Jr., Lucas Giolito and MacKenzie Gore, among others? Beller and Al talk to Michael Waterloo about his latest Stock Watch column on The Athletic and go further in-depth on what actions to take regarding several players.

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A Trip Back to the 2016 Draft, Yermín to San Francisco, Duran Time in Boston

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 19:47:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss Nick Senzel, the underwhelming first round of the 2016 draft, a new opportunity for Yermín Mercedes in San Francisco, Jarren Duran’s return for the Red Sox, Ian’s focus on players’ on-field behavior, playing time opening up in the Rays' outfield due to a rash of injuries, A.J. Puk's future as a closer, and more.

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Debuts, Returns & Setting Fair Short-Term Expectations for Talented Young Players

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 19:09:00 GMT

Ian Kahn joins DVR to discuss recent promotions and expectations for Riley Greene, Oneil Cruz, CJ Abrams, and several other players. Plus, they discuss the long-term benefits for prospects who spent time with older players at alternate sites two years ago, and a large group of young catchers progressing toward the big leagues.

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Waiver Wire Options for Fantasy Week 12

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 21:27:21 GMT

DVR and Al look into whether there are still leagues where Jonathan India and Gabriel Moreno need to be added, and they also gauge the types of leagues where several hitters, including Carson Kelly, Nick Senzel and Adam Duvall, should be rostered. Is it time to add Anthony DeSclafani where he was dropped, and is there a reason to give Caleb Kilian a chance in shallower leagues? DVR and Al also explore some deeper league streamers, like Tyler Wells, Braxton Garrett and Beau Brieske and take stock of four relievers -- Kendall Graveman, Tanner Scott, Tanner Houck and Seranthony Dominguez -- who suddenly have a chance to rack up saves.

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Making Sense of Bullpens in Philly, Texas, Minnesota and More with Greg Jewett

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 07:54:00 GMT

Reliever expert Greg Jewett joins Beller and Al to break down the latest in bullpen fun on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast.

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Opportunity in Texas, Pitching Decision Process, and Opinion v. Support

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 22:17:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss improvements and opportunity in Texas, factors they consider while attempting to stream pitchers and set matchup-based lineups, Brandon Drury's surprising 2022, an influx of closer-committee relievers on the waiver wire, rooting for yourself v. your favorite team, a very UTR Nando Guy in Chicago, the long-term value of Yu Darvish, and opinions v. support.

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Playing Time Concerns for Gabriel Moreno and Kyle Stowers and a Roundup of High-A Standouts

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 16:45:37 GMT

DVR and Al kick off this week's Prospect Tuesday discussion with some hope for the redraft value of Gabriel Moreno, Kyle Stowers and Canaan Smith-Njigba, if only they can be assured of regular playing time. They also look into the growing fantasy popularity of Ezequiel Tovar, Jackson Chourio and Gavin Stone and discuss several High-A standouts, including Masyn Winn, Colin Barber and Connor Phillips.

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Waiver Wire Options for Fantasy Week 11

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 22:08:57 GMT

DVR and Al check in on the fantasy appeal of the latest top prospect to be called up, Blue Jays catcher Gabriel Moreno. They also size up whether hitters like Santiago Espinal, Lane Thomas, Luis García and Ezequiel Duran should be added in 12-team leagues, and they also consider some potential 12-team league pitching options, such as Eduardo Rodriguez, Michael Lorenzen, Graham Ashcraft and Roansy Contreras. And do fantasy managers finally have a closer candidate worth pursuing in either Paul Sewald or Tanner Scott?

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Managerial Changes and Lineup Intrigue with Mike Kurland

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 20:30:00 GMT

Joe Girardi and Joe Maddon are out. Tyler O'Neill is back for the Cardinals. Marcus Semien is just BACK. How does that affect their respective lineups? Mike Kurland joins Beller and Al to break down all that, and more, on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast.

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Managerial Changes, Aaron Judge's Ceiling, & Another Nando Trap

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 23:00:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss managerial changes for the Phillies and Angels, Aaron Judge’s future contract and value in long-term leagues, Shane McClanahan’s soaring value and case to be a future first-round pick, Nando’s continued appreciation for IKF, the possibility of better days ahead for Jon Gray, and more.

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Travis Swaggerty, Steele Walker, Jason Alexander Among Great "Names" to Debut

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 14:38:46 GMT

Travis Swaggerty, Steele Walker and Jason Alexander all have memorable names, and DVR and Al examine whether their major league performances will be just as memorable for fantasy managers. They also look into the fantasy appeal of Caleb Kilian, Riley Greene and Luis García and turn their focus to some players to watch in Triple-A.

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Waiver Wire Options for Fantasy Week 10

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 21:57:42 GMT

Beller and Al dig into the weekend waiver options as the fantasy season rolls into its middle third. They consider whether Christopher Morel and Michael Harris need to be added to even more leagues and look into several two-start options, including Ross Stripling, Dakota Hudson and Garrett Whitlock. Beller and Al wind up the show by searching for saves in the Minnesota, Detroit and Cincinnati bullpens.

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Taking the Fantasy Baseball Pulse of the Cubs, Red Sox and Royals

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 20:56:00 GMT

It's Beat Writer Thursday on The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. Sahadev Sharma (Cubs), Jen McCaffrey (Red Sox) and Alec Lewis (Royals) join the show to dish out on-the-ground knowledge on their respective teams, with great info on Christopher Morel, Alex Verdugo, Vinnie Pasquantino, and more.

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Trading for Daulton Varsho, Adding Steven Kwan and Christopher Morel's Mushrooming Value

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 09:00:00 GMT

Nando, Ian & Al ponder whether Daulton Varsho is being underrated and what it might take to get him in a trade. They also consider whether it makes sense to add Steven Kwan in leagues where he has been dropped and whether there is room for managers to add Christopher Morel to more leagues. Also, who would win a Triston McKenzie-for-Carlos Rodón trade?

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Michael Harris Debuts and Shane Baz Aiming to Return Soon

Tue, 31 May 2022 20:06:00 GMT

Zach Buchanan sits in for DVR on this Prospect Tuesday, and he and Al consider the fantasy appeal of Michael Harris and a slew of other recent callups. They also anticipate when we might finally see Vinnie Pasquantino in Kansas City and Shane Baz back in Tampa Bay, and when Double-A standouts like Esteury Ruiz, Corbin Carroll and Eury Pérez might move up.

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Waiver Wire Options for Fantasy Week 9

Fri, 27 May 2022 21:40:39 GMT

DVR and Al highlight the best waiver options in a week where there are fewer reasons to dip into one's FAB budget. They look at the potential shallow-league appeal of Edwin Ríos, Harrison Bader, William Contreras and Aaron Ashby, deep league hitters like Cal Mitchell and Nico Hoerner and streamable pitchers, including Jordan Lyles, Rich Hill and Nick Martinez.

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Discussing Vlad Jr., Jusitn Verlander, Spencer Torkelson and More with John Laghezza

Thu, 26 May 2022 19:45:00 GMT

John Laghezza joins Beller and Al to break down some of the most interesting movers over the first two months of the season, including Vlad Jr., Justin Verlander and Spencer Torkelson.

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Young Tigers Pitching, Rookie Struggles & Pressing Reset During Demotions

Wed, 25 May 2022 19:13:00 GMT

Nando and DVR are joined by Joel Piñeiro to discuss Tarik Skubal’s step forward, making changes to pitchers, Matt Manning’s early career struggles, how Joel builds a pitching staff, the early struggles of the 2022 rookie class, the benefits of winter ball, the new approach to managing pitcher workloads, the potential value of resetting as a hitter during a brief demotion, Triston McKenzie’s success dating back to the second half of last season, and more.

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Nolan Gorman Arrives and Dodgers Prospects Impressing In The Minors

Tue, 24 May 2022 16:35:37 GMT

DVR and Al run through a busy slate of news items on this week's Prospect Tuesday, as they discuss the recent promotions of Nolan Gorman, Matthew Liberatore, Adley Rutschman and Roansy Contreras. They also anticipate when Edward Cabrera, Michael Busch and Miguel Vargas might make their major league debuts, and embark on their weekly level roundup, this time stopping at Class A.

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Waiver Wire Options for Fantasy Week 8

Fri, 20 May 2022 22:20:02 GMT

DVR and Al look at what a pair of Cardinals call-ups -- Nolan Gorman and Matthew Liberatore -- have to offer fantasy managers. They also consider some hitters besides Gorman to target in FAB, including MJ Melendez, Christian Walker and Christopher Morel. Tyler Anderson, Dane Dunning and Chris Archer are among the two-start pitchers discussed, and DVR and Al also look at the Yankees' and Tigers' bullpen situations,.

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Taking the Fantasy Pulse in Toronto, Milwaukee and Minnesota

Thu, 19 May 2022 19:28:00 GMT

It's Beat Writer Thursday on The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. On this episode, Kaitlyn McGrath (Blue Jays), Will Sammon (Brewers) and Aaron Gleeman (Twins) join Michael Beller to give us on-the-ground expertise on their respective teams.

Follow Kaitlyn (Blue Jays) on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrath

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Injury and Trade Etiquette, Deep League Targets, & Closer Changes Coming

Wed, 18 May 2022 19:16:00 GMT

Nando, Ian & DVR discuss etiquette when injuries occur after a trade is made, hidden value for deep leagues, Yusei Kikuchi's recent success, the long wait for Jarren Duran's next opportunity, Spencer Torkelson's struggles, and new potential closers in the Bronx and in Detroit.

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Chase Silseth Emerging in Anaheim, and Cesar Prieto and Evan Carter Raking in High-A

Tue, 17 May 2022 16:28:00 GMT

Beller joins Al on Prospect Tuesday for a discussion about the recent major league debuts of Chase Silseth, Alex Faedo, Ryan Pepiot and Michael Grove, and the chances of a debut for Astros pitching prospect Hunter Brown. They also look at a Red Sox righty who is dominating Double-A, and a number of players making an impact in High-A, including Cesar Prieto, Evan Carter and Gavin Williams.

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Future of Sports Pt. 2

Sun, 15 May 2022 04:00:00 GMT

In episode two of the Future of Sports series, The Athletic's Mike Smeltz looks at how the team experience may change in the future: increased use of technology in gameplay, robotic umpires and the unique initiatives of a startup sports league.

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Future of Sports Pt. 1

Sat, 14 May 2022 04:00:00 GMT

In episode one of the Future of Sports series, The Athletic's Mike Smeltz looks at how the fan experience may change: how going to games, watching games at home and how memorabilia is shifting from physical to digital.

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Waiver Wire Options for Fantasy Week 7

Fri, 13 May 2022 22:07:32 GMT

DVR and Al assess this week's group of waiver wire targets, and while it's not creating much buzz, they look at the appeal offered by several hitters, including Luke Voit, Josh Naylor, Alek Thomas and Brandon Drury. They also consider some pitchers for the longer haul, like George Kirby, Kyle Bradish and Reid Detmers, and some streaming options, including Drew Smyly, Daniel Lynch, Yusei Kikuchi and Jeffrey Springs.

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Ryan Pepiot's Debut, Rebounding Veterans and Potentially Droppable Players

Thu, 12 May 2022 17:05:04 GMT

Al and Nando consider whether the early rebounds from Christian Yelich, Gleyber Torres and DJ LeMahieu are sustainable, and they discuss their level of interest in Dodgers righty Ryan Pepiot in light of his Wednesday debut. They also determine which slow-starting players are worth dropping, including Trevor Story, Justin Turner, Charlie Morton and Trevor Rogers.

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Rookie Struggles, A New 'Nando Guy' in the Bronx, and Highs & Lows

Wed, 11 May 2022 17:15:00 GMT

Nando, Ian & DVR discuss Jo Adell’s future, Paul DeJong’s demotion and the expected opportunity for Nolan Gorman — the tough adjustment period for several rookies earlier this season — a new ‘Nando Guy’ in the Bronx, Leody Taveras’ path back to Texas, a reminder of how humbling fantasy baseball can be on a day-to-day basis, the Dodgers winning by too much for Craig Kimbrel to get saves, and more.

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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George Kirby Debuts, Robert Hassell III Gets Rostered and Moisés Gómez Shines in Double-A

Tue, 10 May 2022 16:36:49 GMT

DVR and Al revisit the debuts of George Kirby and Alek Thomas and look at an increasingly crowded Tigers rotation with the emergence of Alex Faedo and Joey Wentz. They also discuss the increasingly prominent fantasy profiles of Robert Hassell III and Michael Harris II. DVR and Al wind up with their weekly minor league level roundup, this time focusing on Double-A standouts like Moisés Gómez and Eury Pérez.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Waiver Wire Options for Fantasy Week 6

Fri, 06 May 2022 22:09:27 GMT

DVR and Al break down a particularly busy week for sorting out waiver wire options, which features a number of recent and potential prospect call-ups, including Jose Miranda, Royce Lewis, MJ Melendez and George Kirby. They looked at the shallow-league appeal of Jameson Taillon and Glenn Otto, and considered some deeper-league hitting and pitching options as well, such as Edward Olivares, Yadiel Hernandez, Drew Smyly and Austin Gomber.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Taking the Fantasy Pulse of the Mariners, Astros and White Sox

Thu, 05 May 2022 19:30:00 GMT

It's another beat writer day here on The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. On this episode, we discuss Mariners with Corey Brock, Astros with Jake Kaplan, and White Sox with James Fegan.

Follow Corey (Mariners) on Twitter: @CoreyBrockMLB

Follow Jake (Astros) on Twitter: @jakemkaplan

Follow James (White Sox) on Twitter: @JRFegan

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Dynasty Prospects, Sticking with Top Prospects & Jo Adell's Demotion

Wed, 04 May 2022 23:22:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss a few names emerging on the dynasty league radar, Joey Votto v. Nelson Cruz as rebound candidates, sticking with highly-regarded prospects long after they have debuted, Jo Adell as a buy-low trade target, Jose Miranda's famous cousin, and if the Yankees' pitching staff has improved with Gary Sánchez in Minnesota.

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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A Trio of Twins Call-Ups, Corbin Carroll's Rise Towards the Majors and a Triple-A Roundup

Tue, 03 May 2022 16:54:00 GMT

DVR and Al look into the fantasy relevance of several prospect call-ups, including the Twins' Jose Miranda and Josh Winder, and they discuss prospects with rising roster rates, led by Nolan Gorman and Corbin Carroll. The week's prospect roundup focuses on Triple-A standouts, including Royce Lewis, Vinnie Pasquantino and Matthew Liberatore.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Waiver Wire Options for Fantasy Week 5

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 21:58:11 GMT

DVR and Al consider whether Taylor Ward, Brandon Marsh and Andrew Vaughn are worth adding in the shallowest of leagues and where more highly-available hitters like Joey Wendle and Santiago Espinal should be rostered. They also discuss the latest prospect call-up, Orioles righty Kyle Bradish, and other pitchers who could be added, such as Glenn Otto, Bruce Zimmermann and Jake Junis.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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The Fantasy Baseball MAprilstrom is Nearly Over

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 19:46:00 GMT

What do you get when you mix statistical stabilization points with the end of the first month of the baseball season. A mAprilstrom, of course. Nick Groke joins Beller and Al on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast to discuss which hot starts we can take at face value, and which ones we should look at dubiously.

Follow Nick on Twitter: @nickgroke

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Value in Bulk, Nando's Great April, Nolan Gorman & Power Later in Oakland?

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the early-season value of long relievers like Keegan Thompson, why they may become less interesting as rosters shrink, Nando's fast start in the "Nap League", Nolan Gorman v. Jo Adell in long-term leagues, patience with Spencer Howard, and whether it's a good idea to target a few bats in Oakland for improved power production later this season.

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Adley Rutschman On The Mend, Rookies Missing Bats and a Class A Roundup

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 16:47:59 GMT

On this Prospect Tuesday edition of the show, DVR and Al consider Adley Rutschman's value for single-catcher redraft leagues, while also looking at the longer-term appeal of recently-demoted Bryson Stott and recently-promoted Richie Palacios. They peruse the Z-Contact% leaderboard for rookie pitchers, assess whether to stash Triston Casas, Nolan Gorman and Max Meyer, and discuss some Class A standouts, such as Pete Crow-Armstrong, Carson Williams and Kahlil Watson.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Waiver Wire Options for Fantasy Week 4

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 21:59:17 GMT

DVR and Al explain whether it makes sense to pursue Jurickson Profar in FAB after his hot start, and they also look into other hitters on waivers, including Aaron Hicks, Taylor Ward, Tyler Wade and Cristian Pache., They also consider Paul Blackburn's surprising start, as well as the fantasy appeal of Tyler Anderson, Ross Stripling and two-start pitchers like Mitch Keller and Josh Fleming. Tanner Rainey, Hansel Robles and Dany Jiménez are among the relievers discussed for this week's bidding.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Taking the Fantasy Temperature in St. Louis and Oakland; Early Season High Performers

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 20:20:00 GMT

It's our first beat writer episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast this season, with Katie Woo checking in from St. Louis, and Steve Berman giving us the latest on the A's. Beller and Al wrap up the episode with a buy-sell-hold-based look at players who have gotten off to surprisingly strong starts over the first few weeks of the year.

Follow Katie (Cardinals) on Twitter: @katiejwoo

Follow Steve (A's) on Twitter: @BASportsGuy

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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The Early Drop in Offense, Mookie's Slow Start, Trusting Taillon & an Ian Milestone

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 21:25:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the league-wide drop in offensive output and try to parse blame between a new baseball, the shortened spring training, and other factors. Plus, Mookie Betts' quiet start, Gerrit Cole, Luke Voit & Tyler Stephenson, Jameson Taillon's early value jump, and a big milestone for Ian.

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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MacKenzie Gore Debut, Rookie Chase Rates and High-A Standouts

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 16:50:29 GMT

DVR and Al zero in on the major league debuts of three pitchers -- MacKenzie Gore, Nick Lodolo and Bryce Elder -- on Prospect Tuesday, and they consider the redraft league appeal of Grayson Rodriguez and Max Meyer. They also gauge their level of concern regarding Kevin Smith, Bobby Witt Jr.., Bryson Stott and other rookies who have possibly been a little too aggressive so far. Then they discuss the hot starts of Noelvi Marte, Robert Hassell III, Kyle Harrison, Owen White and a few other players who are beginning the season at High-A.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Waiver Wire Options for Fantasy Week 3

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 22:06:36 GMT

DVR and Al consider whether the rush to add Steven Kwan from waivers has run its course, and they look at other possible hitters to add, including Connor Joe, Anthony Santander, Oscar Mercado and Owen Miller. They discuss how aggressively fantasy managers should bid on MacKenzie Gore and Kyle Wright, and sort out a number of bullpen options, such as Tanner Rainey, Dany Jiménez and Jake Diekman.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Breaking Down a Week's Worth of Bullpen Hijinks with Greg Jewett

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 21:56:42 GMT

Reliever guru Greg Jewett joins Beller and Al to discuss Ryan Pressly, Craig Kimbrel, HLRs, FAAB strategy and more on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball podcast.

Follow Greg on Twitter: @gjewett9

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Matt Brash's Debut, Steven Kwan's Incredible Start and A Double-A Roundup

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 09:00:00 GMT

On this prospects edition of the show, DVR and Al consider the redraft league appeal of Matt Brash, Heliot Ramos and C.J. Abrams and discuss several trending players, including Steven Kwan, Kyle Wright, Jhoan Duran and Triston Casas. They also take a look at a number of intriguing players who are starting the season at Double-A, including this week's deep sleeper prospect from the Brewers system.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Steven Kwan's ROY First Week, Early Jo Adell Concerns & What We're Watching Early

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 18:42:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the fast start to Steven Kwan’s rookie campaign, life with baseball on TV around the clock, what they’re looking for in the early days of the new season, Ian’s concern about Michael Kopech, Jo Adell’s bumpy opening series, Jurickson Profar (!?), and very under-the-radar prospect that Nando is pursuing in Texas, and more.

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Waiver Wire Options for Fantasy Week 2

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 22:05:00 GMT

DVR and Al dig into the waiver options heading into the first full week of the 2022 season. C.J. Abrams, Josh Lowe, Jeremy Peña and Andrew McCutchen are among the hitters who are available in many 12-team leagues, while Drew Rasmussen, Matt Brash and Tylor Megill headline the list of available pitchers. They also consider how much to bid on relief options, including David Robertson and Tony Santillan.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

Subscribe to our YouTube channel: bit.ly/AthleticFantasy

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It's Opening Weekend! Let's Stress over Lineups!

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 20:25:00 GMT

MLB's opening weekend is here! Lineup guru Mike Kurland joins Michael Beller and Al Melchior to discuss the lineup construction intrigue they'll be watching over the first few days of the season.

Follow Mike on Twitter: @Mike_Kurland

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Late Spring Risers, Risk-Reward for Injured Aces, Buxton Helium & Opening Day Prospects

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss a few late spring risers -- including a favorite in Kansas City securing his rotation spot, and an interesting sleeper bat in Pittsburgh -- before considering the risk-reward balance of injured aces, Byron Buxton, and the top prospects set to debut for their teams on Opening Day including Bobby Witt Jr., Spencer Torkelson, and Julio Rodríguez.

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Austin Meadows Trade Fallout and Prospects Playing on Opening Day

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 18:13:00 GMT

Al Melchior and Michael Beller look at the impact of Austin Meadows' departure on the Rays' roster, particularly in reference to playing time for Isaac Paredes, Josh Lowe and Vidal Bruján. They also assess the fantasy value of numerous prospects who have already secured major league roster spots for opening day, from big names like Julio Rodríguez, Bobby Witt Jr. and Hunter Greene, to less-heralded players like Diego Castillo, Seth Beer and Spencer Strider.

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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The First Weekly Waivers of 2022

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 22:51:09 GMT

DVR and Al look at the fantasy implications of the Craig Kimbrel-for-A.J. Pollock trade and then break down a large selection of waiver options to consider just before opening day. The discussion ranges from shallow-league-viable players like Randal Grichuk, Alejandro Kirk and Hunter Greene to deeper league options that include Brad Miller, Tyler Wade and Spencer Howard. They also mull over some potentially available relievers, such as Chris Stratton, Art Warren and Anthony Bender.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

Subscribe to our YouTube channel: bit.ly/AthleticFantasy

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It's the Final (Draft) Countdown

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 21:15:00 GMT

No matter when you listen to this episode, Opening Day will be less than one week away. So with that in mind, Al Melchior and Michael Beller decided that it's time to put down their final markers of draft season. The guys name the players they’re reaching for, those they're passing on at ADP, and those they want just for fun on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast.

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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The 'Too Low' Show, Waiting on Closers, and Luis Robert's Ceiling

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 20:46:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss several players who appear to be going too low in drafts this spring, Luis Robert's ceiling, Plus, fallout from the GDD draft including the downside to cheap pitching staffs (and the pursuit of discounted saves), and picking spots carefully with prospects in redraft leagues.

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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2022 Rookies of Interest

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 17:58:15 GMT

DVR and Al kick off their prospects coverage for the 2022 season with a discussion of prospects who are being targeted in drafts and could have an impact this season. Bobby Witt Jr., Adley Rutschman, Oneil Cruz, Seiya Suzuki and Spencer Torkelson are among the hitters discussed, while DVR and Al dive into some analysis of pitching prospects that includes Shane Baz, Joe Ryan, Matt Brash, Hunter Greene and several others.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Under the Radar Targets, Trusting deGrom & Staying On the Mountain

Sat, 26 Mar 2022 00:18:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss a keeper dilemma for Nando, Jackson Kowar, building a new dynasty league, Steven Kwan, hesitation with Shane Bieber in redraft leagues, trusting Jacob deGrom, buying in on Jorge Mateo's opportunity in Baltimore, and a few favorites for the AL Rookie of the Year award.

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Subscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast

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ADP Risers & Fallers

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 17:28:53 GMT

DVR and Al compare March and February ADPs from NFBC leagues and assess how they like the new values for the biggest movers. Seiya Suzuki, Gary Sánchez, Mitch Garver, Isiah Kiner-Falefa and Jonathan Villar are among the fastest rising hitters they discuss, and they consider several pitchers on the rise, including Carlos Rodón, Yusei Kikuchi and Alex Colomé. Among the rapid fallers they discuss are Kyle Lewis, Jack Flaherty and Craig Kimbrel.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Finding Value in Oakland, Cincinnati & Kansas City w/Ariel Cohen

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 18:05:00 GMT

Nando & DVR are joined by Ariel Cohen (@ATCNY) to discuss the benefits of co-managing teams in a salary cap draft, a few undervalued Reds, opportunities in Oakland, Nelson Cruz's great landing spot with the Nationals, Gary Sánchez outside of New York, Luke Voit in San Diego, Zack Greinke's reunion with the Royals, and more.

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ariel on Twitter: @ATCNY

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Depth Chart Diving: NL East Edition

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 17:13:47 GMT

DVR and Al conclude their series of divisional previews with a focus on the National League East. They consider the fantasy impact of Matt Olson's move to Atlanta as well as the latest update on Zack Wheeler. DVR and Al also do deep dives on the Nationals' outfield, the Mets' platoon possibilities and the Marlins' bullpen situation.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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A Week of Drafts Before Baseball Came Back

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 18:15:00 GMT

Nando, Ian & DVR discuss their experiences in NL LABR, AL LABR and the ongoing Tout Wars Draft and Hold league including auction missteps, roster build strategies, the value of making a quick trade if a roster is imbalanced, and much more. When Adalberto Mondesi falls in a draft, is he worth the risk? Can Jameson Taillon bounce back in Year 2 with the Yankees?

Draft Results:

NL LABR: https://rtsports.com/labr-nl-auction

AL LABR: https://rtsports.com/labr-al-auction

Tout Draft & Hold: https://bit.ly/ToutDH22

(Baseball came back about five minutes after we finished recording this episode. We look forward to a return to "normalcy" on our next episode.)

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Depth Chart Diving: AL East Edition

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 17:56:26 GMT

DVR and Al continue their series of divisional previews, turning their attention to the American League East. They consider the fantasy appeal of Vidal Bruján and Josh Lowe, highlight fantasy options they like in the Red Sox's and Yankees' rotations, discuss their expectations for Randal Grichuk and contemplate the impact of the new dimensions at Oriole Park at Camden Yards.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Maximizing Value on Draft Day, a Kenley-LA Reunion & Byron Buxton for AL MVP?

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 03:00:00 GMT

Nando, Ian & DVR discuss an undervalued Frankie Montas, balancing evaluations against the tendencies of your opponents on draft day to maximize value on your roster, the uncertainty of a potential Kenley Jansen-Dodgers reunion, being selective about joining in-progress long-term leagues, and interest in Byron Buxton as a long-shot candidate to win the AL MVP award in 2022.

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Depth Chart Diving: NL Central Edition

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 18:55:35 GMT

DVR and Al make another stop on their series of divisional previews, this time focusing on the depth charts for each team in the National League Central. They look at some enticing fantasy options in the crowded Brewers and Reds rotations, consider some hitters to target in the Cubs' and Pirates' lineups and assess the fantasy value of Giovanny Gallegos.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Digging Deep, Tweaking Rules, and Giving Passes for 2021 Prospect Performances

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 18:50:00 GMT

Nando, Ian & DVR discuss a few potential deep sleepers, potential draft eligibility tweaks to include Seiya Suzuki despite the ongoing lockout, giving falling prospects a pass for disappointing 2021 seasons, long-term interest in Forrest Whitley, and more.

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Depth Chart Diving: AL Central Edition

Tue, 22 Feb 2022 21:09:07 GMT

Nando and Al move forward with the divisional preview series by taking a close look at the American League Central. They consider the late-round appeal of Bailey Ober, Daz Cameron and Gavin Sheets and make bold predictions for Eli Morgan, Dylan Bundy, Yolbert Sanchez and several other players.

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

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A Few Nando Guys, More DH Fallout & A Gas Can Pitching Build

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 01:35:00 GMT

Nando & DVR discuss an overzealous approach to starting pitchers, a few more winners in the NL DH playing time shuffle, and a few intriguing deep league flyers vying for opportunities in 2022.

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Depth Chart Diving: NL West Edition

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 18:09:14 GMT

DVR and Al continue their series of divisional previews by zeroing in on the depth charts for each team in the National League West. They consider the playing time potential for Gavin Lux and Jordan Luplow, size up the closer situations in San Diego and San Francisco and look for viable fantasy pitchers in the Rockies' rotation.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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DH Opportunities, Varsho Problems & Manoah's Ceiling

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 19:43:00 GMT

Nando, Ian & DVR examine a few potential winners with the expected return of the DH to the National League before discussing the challenge of Daulton’s Varsho’s 2022 ADP, Alek Manoah’s Year 2 expectations, Tarik Skubal, and more.

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Depth Chart Diving: AL West Edition

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 18:24:00 GMT

DVR and Al kick off a series of divisional previews by breaking down the depth charts for each team in the American League West. Topics of interest include hitters who could gain a surprisingly prominent role for the A's, the depth and quality of the Angels' rotation and the Astros' shortstop situation.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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How To Manage Improperly Valued Young Pitching & Buying the Build in Detroit

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 19:49:00 GMT

Nando, Ian & DVR discuss Cavan Biggio as a rebound candidate, their concerns about Shane Bieber — short and long-term — how to leverage improperly valued young pitching in most leagues, Robbie Grossman’s chances of sustaining his 2021 performance, and more.

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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What is 'Different' About 2022?

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 17:11:00 GMT

DVR and Al discuss some of the unique challenges on the table in 2022 fantasy baseball drafts including the still unhelpful 2020 data points and lost minor league season, the uncertainty on current pending free agents and currently rehabbing players in the midst of the lockout, early-round picks with very questionable health, and the growing trend of closer-by-committee.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Email us: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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MLB Mega Draft, Jazz Chisholm Jr., Jo Adell & Beating a Perennial Winner

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 18:38:00 GMT

Nando, Ian & DVR discuss Nando's approach to The Athletic's MLB Mega Draft before examining the short and long-term value of Jazz Chisholm Jr., their varying interest in Jo Adell, and how they try to close the gap on dominant managers in the leagues.

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

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Late Round Considerations, Strasburg Risk-Reward, and the Power of 47

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 17:45:00 GMT

Nando, Ian & DVR discuss a few of their late-round darts from a recent draft-and-hold league, the risk v. reward of targeting Stephen Strasburg now compared to waiting until a potentially healthy spring training, and becoming more excited about Orioles pitchers with the adjustments that are being made to Camden Yards.

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Building the Machine, January Edition

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 18:35:00 GMT

Nando, Ian & DVR recently joined a 12-team, 50-round draft-and-hold league with a slow draft (it's still going on). Using that framework, they outline the strategies they used for their roster foundations and some of their thought process as the draft played out with several round-by-round decisions.

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Season 4 Premier! Big Moves, Long Car Rides, and a Surprising Love For Shark Tank

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 18:15:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss a few early draft season observations -- Ian's blockbuster trade thanks to a long car ride -- the XFL auction, pre-lockout activity including Thor in Anaheim, Andrew Heaney's fresh start with the Dodgers, and the Rangers' aggressive approach. Plus, Clint Frazier's move to Chicago, a divided group of hosts about Robbie Ray's 2022 outlook, and Eloy Jiménez v. Nick Castellanos as an early-round power bat toss-up.

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An Easy Fix to Balls & Strikes and Takeaways From a Very Early 2022 Draft

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 23:15:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss an easy fix to issues with balls and strikes, and several takeaways from a very early 2022 draft that DVR was a part of in tandem with Todd Zola.

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E-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line ‘Under the Radar’

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Yoo-Hoo Showers, High Fives, Settling Bets, and Closing the Book on the 2021 Fantasy Baseball Season

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 04:26:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the end of the 2021 fantasy baseball season and check in on a few old wagers from the past year, as they prepare to turn the page and begin the process of getting ready for 2022.

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E-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line ‘Under the Radar’

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The final FAB: Pitchers and hitters who could make a difference in the last week

Sun, 26 Sep 2021 15:55:00 GMT

DVR and Al go through the probable pitcher grid one last time to find starters who could make an impact for your fantasy teams' final push, including Brady Singer, Tanner Houck and Alex Cobb. They also highlight a few hitters to add and a widely-available closer who appears primed for a productive week.

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Deep League Flyers & Overlooked Prospects w/Matt Eddy

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 20:32:00 GMT

DVR is joined by Matt Eddy of Baseball America to discuss several players getting late-season opportunities who may prove to be sneaky long-term adds in keeper and dynasty leagues, or undervalued targets to consider in deeper redraft leagues in 2022. Plus, Matt shares a few overlooked prospect risers worth adding in long-term formats, what he's learned from the 2021 season, and his ideas for making fantasy baseball better in the future.

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A Buy-Low Opportunity in Seattle & Buying High on Sal Perez in 2022?

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 19:11:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss another season largely lost to injury for Mariners outfielder Kyle Lewis, Anthony Gose's return to the big leagues as a reliever, varying levels of trust in Salvador Perez as a very early-round, big-bid catcher entering 2022, and more.

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E-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line ‘Under the Radar’

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The penultimate FAB preview, anticipating Shane Baz's debut and considering Jose Siri's appeal

Sun, 19 Sep 2021 16:02:02 GMT

DVR and Al take a look across the grid of probable starters for the week starting September 20 to find streaming options, including Jon Lester, Jake Woodford and the debuting Shane Baz, They also look into a number of available hitters who could help during the season's final stretch.

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Second-Half Pitching Surprises w/Nick Pollack

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 15:46:00 GMT

DVR is joined by Nick Pollack of Pitcher List to discuss the evolution of Freddy Peralta, second-half pitching surprises -- including Blake Snell, Nathan Eovaldi, Logan Webb, Robbie Ray and Triston McKenzie -- a way too early look at the top of the 2022 pitching ranks, and the need to turn more baseball fans into fantasy baseball players.

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Late-season risers, fallers, and a modern day Nolan Ryan?

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 00:29:00 GMT

DVR and Ian discuss late-season risers and fallers -- including Sandy Alcantara, Yu Darvish and Logan Webb -- Max Scherzer as a 2021 version of Nolan Ryan, how they're re-tracing their steps across various leagues and auctions to correct mistakes for the future, and more.

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Finding late-season pitching help, sharing the process, and no...it's not too early for Beer

Sun, 12 Sep 2021 15:42:00 GMT

DVR shares his weekly free-agent bidding process while looking for viable options on the wire with just three weeks remaining in the 2021 fantasy baseball season. Which pitchers are one-week streamers, and which fringe guys have appeal the rest of the way? Is Seth Beer primed to be one of the last remaining long-term impact bats getting the call this season?

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Learning From 2021 Mistakes & Identifying 2022 First-Rounders w/Todd Zola

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 00:03:00 GMT

DVR is joined by Todd Zola of Mastersball & RotoWire to discuss their missteps in the very early 2021 draft ('The Kenyon League') as they prepare to begin the 2022 draft in just a few weeks. Is Adalberto Mondesi still a viable early-round option after another injury plagued season? Who will move into the first-round for 2022 drafts? Which 2021 pitching risers will catch too much helium next season? And how valuable will Trevor Story be leaving Colorado this offseason?

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Love for A.J. Alexy, a new Trout v. Harper debate, and Robbie Ray's future value

Tue, 07 Sep 2021 17:58:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss their interest in several late-season contributors -- including Rangers starter A.J. Alexy -- a looming Trout v. Harper debate in the early stages of 2022 drafts, and their future expectations for Robbie 'The Grunt' Ray in the wake of his career year in 2021.

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E-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line ‘Under the Radar’

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Emptying FAB for closers and hitters and navigating a difficult week for streaming starting pitchers

Sun, 05 Sep 2021 15:28:13 GMT

Beller and Al look into the FAB and waiver options for Sept. 5, covering the week from Sept. 6 to Sept. 12. They consider how much to prioritize hitters like Keibert Ruiz, Bobby Dalbec and Josh Harrison and discuss the appeal of adding Giovanny Gallegos, Adam Ottavino and Carlos Estévez to your fantasy bullpen.

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The never-ending quest for value, Joe Ryan's arrival, and long-term outlooks for Adalberto Mondesi and Cody Bellinger

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 20:05:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the return of Khris Davis to the A’s, expectations for Joe Ryan, stashing Derek Hill and DJ Peters, the future outlooks of Cody Bellinger and Adalberto Mondesi, and more.

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E-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line ‘Under the Radar’

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A look back at how 2020 breakouts have fared in 2021

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 21:19:00 GMT

DVR and Al examine several 2020 breakouts -- including Randy Arozarena, Teoscar Hernández, and Luke Voit -- and attempt to set expectations for 2022 and beyond. Plus, they take an early look at how the fantasy community might approach Matt Olson, and Christian Yelich entering next season.

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Fantasy Baseball FAB and Waivers for August 29

Sun, 29 Aug 2021 15:30:00 GMT

DVR and Beller take a look at the fantasy baseball FAB and waiver landscape for August 29, covering the week of August 30-September 5. Finding production on the waiver wire for the final month of the season can propel you to a fantasy baseball championship this season!

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Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/oqOiXKRbrr0

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Adjusting expectations for young players w/Sara Sanchez

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 04:16:00 GMT

DVR is joined by Sara Sanchez of FanGraphs and Bleed Cubbie Blue to discuss the Rookie of the Year race in both leagues, their adjusted expectations for several young players looking ahead to 2022, and finding reasons to be excited about a team playing out the string in the final two months of the season.

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Trusting Triston McKenzie & Frankie Montas, eating pellets, and running away from ghosts

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 18:20:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the second-half success of Triston McKenzie, Frankie Montas' return to 2019 levels, a surprising Nestor Cortes v. Jesus Luzardo revelation, and more. Plus, General Washington has another chat with friend of the show, Ariel Cohen.

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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Dynasty Rankings Update & Late-Season Observations

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 09:00:00 GMT

DVR and Ian discuss a few challenges from Ian's most recent update of Dynasty League rankings -- including the difficulty of ranking Dylan Carlson and Gavin Lux, among others -- and importance of continuing to work the waiver wire and to make late-season trades regardless of standings position.

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Making a case for Carlos Hernández and Erick Fedde and a scarcity of hitting options in FAB

Sun, 22 Aug 2021 16:00:30 GMT

DVR and Al consider a lopsided field of FAB options for the week starting August 23, which is replete with viable pitching options but short on reliable hitters. They consider the merits of adding Elieser Hernandez, Tylor Megill, Carlos Hernández and Erick Fedde, while poring over a cohort of hitters that includes Frank Schwindel, Derek Hill and Jorge Mateo.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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The Giants' offensive surge and a look back at the past calendar year

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 20:12:00 GMT

DVR and Al discuss Al's recent story about the Giants' offensive production since the sticky-substance crackdown in June, before combing through the past calendar year leaderboards for hitters in an attempt to reduce recency bias in the wake of great (and poor) 2021 performances.

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Better later than never, learning from opponents, & Brittney Palmer joins the show!

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 20:28:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss a potential turnaround for Hunter Dozier, Willy Adames' ascent in the latest round of dynasty rankings, expectations for Reid Detmers, the unusual season for rookies, and more.

Plus, artist Brittney Palmer joins Nando and DVR to discuss her cards for Topps Project 70!

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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Fantasy Baseball FAB and Waivers for August 15

Sun, 15 Aug 2021 16:15:00 GMT

DVR and Beller take a look at the fantasy baseball FAB and waiver landscape for August 15, covering the week of August 16-22. Lewis Brinson and Daulton Varsho are mashing, and several good veteran bats have returned from the IL recently. Chris Sale is back! Plus, a look at this week's two-start pitchers, and a spin through the bullpens across the league.

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Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dA1z2tPL2NE

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Finding late-season value, two more hits for Nando, and Ian's waiver target in KC

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 23:12:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR are back to discuss the success of Nestor Cortes, Mychal Givens' chance to close in Cincinnati, Justin Steele and the number of open jobs on the north side of Chicago, and the importance of continuing to work the waiver aggressively during the stretch run of the fantasy baseball season.

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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Expectations for Jo Adell, Luis Gil and Nestor Cortes and relievers to target in FAB bidding

Sun, 08 Aug 2021 16:01:21 GMT

DVR and Al look into whether Jo Adell is worth the remainder of your FAB budget as well as some hitters having a surprising run in recent weeks. They also consider some of the top two-start wavier options as well as a handful of one-start streamers to consider. Are Tyler Clippard and Giovanny Gallegos worth adding and is there anyone in the current Royals, Yankees or Reds closer mix worth pursuing?

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Post-trade deadline reactions with Joe Sheehan and Gene McCaffrey

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 19:12:19 GMT

With DVR and Ian away, Nando goes to the bullpen for a pair of ace relievers. Joe Sheehan and Gene McCaffrey join the show to help pick up the pieces after a crazy trade deadline. Is Nestor Cortes being stretched out? With Tatis Jr., out is Ha-Seong Kim now relevant for fantasy owners? What is Abraham Toro's long-term value in Seattle? How does Luzardo fit with Marlins? All that and much more on an exciting episode of Under The Radar!

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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Post-trade deadline impacts on playing time, under-rostered Rockies and closer situations now in flux

Sun, 01 Aug 2021 16:24:00 GMT

Beller and Al look at how sell-offs have created opportunities for numerous players, particularly on the Cubs and Nationals. They also consider the increasing FAB appeal of pitchers like Triston McKenzie, Zach Thompson and recent callup Reid Detmers and some relievers who are now candidates for saves.

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Opportunities from the trade deadline, changes atop dynasty rankings, and steeper penalties for bad teams

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 19:48:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss a few pre-deadline deals, and the resulting opportunities for players that were previously without opportunities for regular roles, tweaks atop Ian's upcoming Dynasty Rankings update, and Yermín Mercedes' post-retirement production at Triple-A Charlotte. Plus, they discuss a more steep pay structure for long-term leagues as an anti-tanking measure.

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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Brandon Marsh, Daulton Varsho, closers-in-waiting and others on the FAB/waiver radar

Sun, 25 Jul 2021 15:46:00 GMT

Beller and Al run through FAB and waiver claims for the week of July 26 through August 1 on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. How interested should you be in Brandon Marsh? Is Daulton Varsho worth adding across the board, especially with trades likely on the horizon for the Diamondbacks? Who are the best closers-in-waiting to go after heading into the trade deadline? Beller and Al tackle all of those questions, and a whole lot more.

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Fun with fantasy baseball rest-of-season projections

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 16:11:00 GMT

We're now a week into the second half of the MLB season, and there's a good chance you've already made the most important moves you can make for your fantasy baseball team. At this point, you may just need to sit back and trust the players who have gotten you to this point. So, who can you trust? Who might be playing a little over his head? Beller and DVR try to determine that on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast.

The guys do that by checking out rest-of-season projections from The BAT X and discussing whether or not they expect the players to hit or fall short of their numbers. Can Bryan Reynolds keep this up? Can Jake Cronenworth providing five-category value? Is Harrison Bader set to be a sneaky power/speed guy the rest of the way? The guys get into those three, and plenty more.

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Ranking the top of the 2021 draft class, Duran v. other young players, and making sense of Gavin Lux

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 17:25:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss their preferences atop the first-year player draft ranks for keeper/dynasty leagues coming out of the 2021 MLB Draft, a deep sleeper for the Yankees, Ian's continued faith in Wily Peralta, Jarren Duran v. Gleyber Torres in a dynasty league, and whether now is the time to target Gavin Lux in long-term leagues.

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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Jarren Duran, Josiah Gray and other intriguing waiver-wire pickups to consider

Sun, 18 Jul 2021 16:00:00 GMT

DVR and Beller sift through the waiver-wire before first full week of second-half games. Jarren Duran's promotion opens up at least one big-bid player in many redraft leagues, while a few bats back from injury, and a pitching prospect in Los Angeles are also on the radar this weekend.

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10 players to watch in fantasy baseball leagues as the second half begins

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 09:00:00 GMT

Wednesday is the one day between Opening Day and the final day of the season that doesn't feature any MLB action whatsoever, but never fear! Beller and DVR are here to fill the void with this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast.

The guys take a look ahead to the second half of the season, considering 10 players they'll be watching closely coming out of the break. Can Christian Yelich and Lucas Giolito get it going? Did Luis Castillo figure something out over the last month? Is Carlos Correa finally having the season that was promised? The answers to those questions could be crucial in fantasy leagues for the rest of the season.

Plus, Beller throws a random quiz at DVR. It's like high school all over again!

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hADv1blKO1k

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Over the Radar: We're Back!

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 19:51:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss Pete Alonso's Home Run Derby greatness, Yermin Mercedes' need for a trade to a less crowded depth chart, Chris Flexen's surprisingly strong first half, Nando's inability to trade away V*ctor R*bles, and their picks for most impactful Futures Game player in the second half of the season.

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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Fantasy baseball waiver-wire adds for All-Star Break week

Sun, 11 Jul 2021 16:25:00 GMT

DVR and Beller sift through the best options available with the All-Star Break getting underway and examine some of the league's worst offenses as continually reliable streaming targets going forward. Players discussed include Eloy Jiménez, Vidal Bruján, Zach Davies, Alex Cobb and Cristian Javier.

As for the worst offenses in the league, the guys wonder whether we'll be able to keep streaming against the Rockies, Pirates, Diamondbacks (yes), Marlins, Cardinals, Royals, Brewers, Cubs and others with confidence.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/sZ7cBnH8Q8s

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Checking in on the Yankees and Cardinals, and naming the ROI All-Star Team

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 16:25:00 GMT

It's the final beat writer Thursday before the All-Star Break, and we celebrate by welcoming on two writers who are close to two of the most disappointing teams of the first half: Lindsey Adler, who covers the Yankees, and Katie Woo, who covers the Cardinals.

After talking with Lindsey and Katie, Beller and DVR bring the show home by naming the Return-on-Investment All-Star Team, and consider whether the players on it can carry things over in to the second half of the season.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Follow Lindsey on Twitter: @lindseyadler

Follow Katie on Twitter: @katiejwoo

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The ethics of player drops, and assessing future roles for Yermín Mercedes and Jake Burger

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 18:41:40 GMT

Nando welcomes Al to the show, and Al tries to keep Nando from repeating his mistakes in dynasty leagues, while they also consider what the second half could bring for Yermín Mercedes, Jake Burger, Victor Robles, Charlie Blackmon, Ramón Urías and a couple of Tigers minor leaguers.

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Email: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line ‘Under the Radar'

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Fantasy baseball waiver adds sure to provide the fireworks this weekend

Sat, 03 Jul 2021 04:12:00 GMT

DVR and Beller take a look at the fantasy baseball FAB and waiver landscape for July 4, covering the week of July 5-July 11. Is Daulton Varsho up for good? If you miss out on Luis Patiño, which pitchers should you try to stream?

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Touching base with Cleveland and Philly, and a look at our Waiver Wire All-Star Team

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Beller and DVR welcome Cleveland beat writer Zack Meisel and Phillies beat writer Matt Gelb to this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. Zack discusses Amed Rosario's midseason turnaround, the injury outlook for Shane Bieber, Bobby Bradley's status as an everyday player, and more.

The guys then turn their attention to Philly, where Gelb gets into Zack Wheeler's standout season, the topsy-turvy bullpen, Alec Bohm's disappointing first half, and more.

Finally, Beller and DVR wrap up the show by naming the fantasy baseball Waiver Wire All-Star Teams for both shallow and deep leagues.

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

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Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-MYmkywxGaw

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Overlooked players and categories, and projections system agreement w/Ariel Cohen

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 19:43:00 GMT

Ian and DVR are joined by Ariel Cohen to discuss his path into fantasy baseball, the incredible 2021 of Bryan Reynolds, runs as the most overlooked hitting category, Keston Hiura and projections system agreement, the hidden value of middle relievers, and more.

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Ariel on Twitter: @ATCNY

e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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Checking out a restocked fantasy baseball FAB and waivers cupboard

Sun, 27 Jun 2021 16:00:00 GMT

DVR and Beller take a look at the fantasy baseball FAB and waiver landscape for June 27, covering the week of June 28-July 4. What should you do if Keston Hiura is available in your league? Who is Lars Nootbaar? Is it time to stash Luis Patiño, and how much should you bid if Jose Alvarado is available?

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hvAYtsF5k5Y

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Checking in with the Nationals and White Sox, and gaming the MLB trade deadline in fantasy leagues

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 16:40:00 GMT

It's beat writer Thursday on The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. Beller and DVR are happy to welcome Nationals beat writer Maria Torres and White Sox beat writer James Fegan to the show. Maria discusses Juan Soto's increasing ground-ball rate, the look of a potential Max Scherzer trade, midseason turnarounds from Kyle Schwarber and Josh Bell, and more.

Then, James gets into White Sox trade targets (Adam Frazier and Eduardo Escobar), Yoán Moncada's power outage, Eloy Jiménez's injury status, Carlos Rodón's career year, and more.

Finally, Beller and DVR wrap up the episode by discussing how fantasy managers can play the MLB trade deadline to their advantage.

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

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Follow Maria on Twitter: @maria_torres3

Follow James on Twitter: @JRFegan

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8YSYmRIluF8

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Special Guest No. 3 joins the show to discuss Wander Franco, Abraham Toro, and Jesús Luzardo's demotion

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 18:38:00 GMT

Ian and DVR are joined by third special guest since Opening Day 2021 to discuss the short-term and long-term value of Wander Franco, the opportunity for Abraham Toro in Houston, lingering long-term interest in Jesús Luzardo, and much more.

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A change in the Miami outfield, Matt Manning gets the call, and scary streamers

Sun, 20 Jun 2021 15:53:00 GMT

DVR and Beller take a look at the fantasy baseball FAB and waiver landscape for June 20, covering the week of June 21-27. Jesús Sánchez leads the way for a nice group of hitters, which also includes Abraham Toro and Taylor Ward, among others. Tigers rookie Matt Manning leads a group of pitchers that is largely comprised of risky streamers.

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Zac Gallen's return, the mighty mighty Blue Jays, and a breakdown of the Thursday slate with Derek Carty

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 16:11:00 GMT

Derek Carty, creator of The BAT X and EV Analytics guru, joins Beller and DVR to break down the Thursday, June 17 slate from both gambling and fantasy angles on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. Does it make sense to chase Zac Gallen in his return from the IL? How can we fade John Gant without paying the -190 price on the Braves moneyline? How did The BAT X get Vlad Jr. so right this season? The guys dive into all that, and more.

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

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In-season tactics & re-thinking relievers w/Alex Cushing

Tue, 15 Jun 2021 18:02:00 GMT

Ian and DVR are joined by Alex Cushing (a.k.a The CushBot) to discuss the importance of managing the waiver wire in redraft and long-term leagues, the necessary discipline of managing a FAAB budget, reasons for optimism about Joey Gallo, reliever strategy, and how we could make saves less important in the future.

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

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Follow Alex on Twitter: @A_Cushing

e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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Outfield options, two-start pitchers, and second chance for a few SPs

Sun, 13 Jun 2021 16:00:00 GMT

DVR and Beller take a look at the fantasy baseball FAB and waiver landscape for June 13, covering the week of June 14-20. Is Miguel Andújar playing his way onto more rosters? Is Jake Bauers worth a look now that he's in Seattle? Should we already cut bait with Jackson Kowar? Plus, a look at this week's two-start pitchers, and a spin through the bullpens across the league.

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

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Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O2koVdMPc8g

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Checking in with the Cubs and Royals, and exploring possible fantasy angles that could stick if the substances don't

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 17:28:00 GMT

Beller and DVR welcome Cubs beat writer Sahadev Sharma and Royals beat writer Alec Lewis onto this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast.

First, Sahadev joins the show to take a look at the Cubs from a fantasy perspective. Where does Patrick Wisdom fit in when the Cubs get fully healthy? Are Javy Baez's strikeout rate and Anthony Rizzo's power outage cause for concerns. And can we finally put to bed Craig Kimbrel trade rumors?

Then, Alec jumps on to discuss the Royals. Is Josh Staumont back in line for saves? Will the team be patient with Jackson Kowar at the big league level? Is Andrew Benintendi back to his 20/20 ways? Alec answers those questions, and more.

Finally, Beller and DVR wrap up by trying to find a fantasy angle to the sticky substances story. Namely, if MLB does indeed crack down, is there any way in which fantasy managers can take action?

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Sahadev on Twitter: @sahadevsharma

Follow Alec on Twitter: @alec_lewis

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Get SMART w/Glenn Colton

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 21:03:00 GMT

Ian and DVR are joined by FSGA Hall of Famer Glenn Colton to discuss his start in fantasy baseball, the SMART system, building successful partnerships to share teams, the demotions of Jarred Kelenic and Keston Hiura, and more.

Rundown

2:15 How Did Glenn Colton Get Started in Fantasy Baseball?

4:36 What is the SMART System?

7:28 Tips for Sharing Teams

10:58 Cedric Mullins the Third

15:33 Buying Bradley Zimmer or Bobby Bradley?

21:55 New Positions as Difficult as New Teams w/Big Money?

26:41 Demotions of Jarred Kelenic & Keston Hiura

39:28 Concerns About Gerrit Cole, Others w/Crackdown on Sticky Stuff?

47:02 Yankees Fans Are Just Like the Rest of Us

57:45 Ross Stripling & Kringles?

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Glenn on Twitter: @glenncolton1

e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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Sage advice for filling corner infield, middle infielders galore, a thin cohort of two-start streamers and closure at closer in Cincinnati?

Sun, 06 Jun 2021 17:58:00 GMT

After a season-long dearth of viable middle infield options on waivers, Beller and Al have several interesting players to consider for their upcoming FAB bidding. Also, they discuss a journeyman corner infielder who could be a target for wise fantasy GMs, a few underrated starters to add, a paper-thin array of reliable and available two-start pitchers for the coming week and some developing closer situations.

0:44 A wise choice for corner infield?

2:20 A couple of outfield-eligible options to consider

4:50 An embarrassment of middle infield riches, including Luis Urías, Cesar Hernandez and Jonathan India

17:33 Alex Cobb, Martín Pérez and Austin Gomber lead a list of starters deserving of more consideration

25:37 Are any of this week’s two-start pitchers worth pursuing?

32:58 Is Lucas Sims the Reds’ primary closer now?

34:00 Should we pursue a potential closer from the Orioles or Royals?

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

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Talking Dodgers, Giants and potentially undervalued SPs to acquire right now

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 20:10:00 GMT

Three guests, each with their own area of expertise, join Beller on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. First, Dodgers beat writer Fabian Ardaya jumps on the show to discuss Cody Bellinger's form, Tony Gonsolin's impending return, and Julio Urías' innings.

Then we head up the coast to San Francisco where we find Giants beat writer Grant Brisbee. He shares with us intel on the team's closer situation, Buster Posey's fountain of youth, and the way the Giants will approach the trade deadline.

Finally, Al Melchior joins the show to talk about five pitchers whose roles are changing, and could therefore be acquired at a significant discount right now.

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Love for Freddy Galvis, Shohei Ohtani's class, and the fun in old ejection videos

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 17:00:00 GMT

With Nando and DVR out, Beller joins Ian on this episode of Under the Radar. The guys discuss a number of players who should be blinking on the fantasy community's shared radar, as well as the demoralizing effect of injuries. They also get into Shohei Ohtani's class, Liam Hendriks' confidence, Gavin Lux' newfound swag, and old ejection videos.

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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Some emerging middle infield options, a handful of new saves sources and whether to splurge on Alek ManoahDraft Episode for May 30, 2021

Sun, 30 May 2021 18:46:00 GMT

A season heavy on quality pitching is getting even heavier, and Beller and Al break down how they are prioritizing some possible rotation additions. They also look at the returns of Ty France and Keston Hiura as two possible options to upgrade at middle infield. Beller and Al also investigate which two-start pitchers and relievers are intriguing them this weekend.

1:20 Should you be back in on Keston Hiura?

3:26 Can Zach McKinstry play just about every day?

5:30 Brad Miller and Ty France are just two of your versatile MI options

16:09 Is this the time to bid on Wander Franco and Vidal Brujan?

18:00 Should you break the bank to get Alek Manoah?

19:58 Who are the other one-start pitchers to add?

29:27 Two-start pitchers

38:18 Relievers to pursue

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

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Alek Manoah's debut, Adolis García's run, and some buy high/sell low talk (yes, buy high/sell low)

Thu, 27 May 2021 17:18:00 GMT

Beller and DVR welcome Blue Jays beat writer Kaitlyn McGrath and Rangers beat writer Levi Weaver onto this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. First, Kaitlyn details the Blue Jays likely plans for Alek Manoah, Vladdy Jr.'s star turn, Ross Stripling's potential rebound, and the outlook for the bullpen. Then, Levi discusses Adolis García's unlikely rise, new roles for Willie Calhoun and Nate Lowe, Josh Jung's timetable, and more.

After that, Beller and DVR flip the typical fantasy script. Buy low/sell high is so passé. What about buying high and selling low? The guys tell you the player performances they're taking at face value heading into the final week of May.

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1D04zhpGnU

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Follow Levi on Twitter: @ThreeTwoEephus

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Expectations for Alek Manoah, ignoring advice, and Jarren Duran love

Wed, 26 May 2021 03:17:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss expectations for Alek Manoah, asking for advice and proceeding to ignore it completely, whether or not Dane Dunning is a 'good' pitcher, the Rays' plans for J.P. Feyereisen, and more.

Rundown

4:42 A Tough Drop Question

7:56 Alek Manoah Expectations

15:52 Nando Asks His Friends for Advice, Ignores It

23:58 Is Dane Dunning Good?

28:30 Unwarranted Obsession w/J.P. Feyereisen?

33:03 Love for Jarren Duran

46:17 The Difficulty of Trading for Elite Pitching

50:32 Ross Stripling Pulls Ian Right Back In

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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The Willy Adames trade, the addition of Spencer Howard, and the potential promotion of Alek Manoah

Sun, 23 May 2021 16:06:00 GMT

The fantasy baseball waiver wire is meatier than it's been in the last few weeks, highlighted by young starters Spencer Howard and Alek Manoah. Add in the Willy Adames trade, a little bit of Brendan Rodgers, and some attractive two-start pitchers, and you've got the recipe for an active round of FAB. DVR and Beller break it all down on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

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The Mets are injured, the Astros are hot, and these performances are real...and they're spectacular

Thu, 20 May 2021 17:20:00 GMT

It's beat writer Thursday on The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. First, Beller and DVR welcome on Mets beat writer Tim Britton to break down all the team's injuries, the potentially impending returns of Jacob deGrom and Noah Syndergaard, Francisco Lindor's struggles, and more. Then, Astros beat writer Jake Kaplan joins the show to discuss one of the best and hottest offenses in baseball, with a particular focus on Yuli Gurriel, Yordan Álvarez and Carlos Correa. The guys also get into how the rotation shakes out when everyone is healthy.

Then, Beller and DVR play an extended game of Is This Real?, with looks at the recent play of Adolis García, Robbie Grossman, Trey Mancini, and more.

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Tim on Twitter: @TimBritton

Follow Jake on Twitter: @jakemkaplan

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Corbin Martin is back, Nando's neverending rebuild, and shifting bullpen roles

Tue, 18 May 2021 23:54:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss Corbin Martin's return to the big leagues, a neverending Nando rebuild in a Scoresheet dynasty league, another round of "Ian's Guys", and changes in the bullpens in Toronto, San Francisco, Minnesota and Detroit.

Rundown

5:05 Corbin Martin is Back!

12:15 Nando's Neverending Scoresheet Rebuild

19:07 More of Ian's Guys

26:42 A Closer Look at Toronto, San Francisco, Minnesota & Detroit Bullpens

31:13 DVR Picks a Random Number

45:56 Yes, We're on Yermín's Side

51:15 Match the Affiliate

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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Streaming options beyond Jarred Kelenic, a dearth of viable two-start pitchers and a trio of potential closers

Sun, 16 May 2021 16:52:00 GMT

DVR and Al explore options for upgrading fantasy rotations despite a thin group of potential streamers. They also run through the hitting options likely to be found on waivers, even if Mariners outfield phenom Jarred Kelenic is already claimed in your leagues. Included in the discussion are Cardinals to consider despite a short schedule – namely, Tyler O’Neill and Harrison Bader – a bevy of Nationals with a favorable schedule and potential Dodger fill-ins.

0:57 Hitters to pursue beyond Jarred Kelenic

7:02 Who fills in for the Dodgers with Corey Seager and A.J. Pollock out?

11:09 Deeper-league hitting options: Michael Chavis, Nomar Mazara, Matt Duffy, available Nationals

18:08 Two-Start Pitchers, including Madison Bumgarner, Zach Davies and Jon Lester

31:36 One-Start Pitchers, including Logan Gilbert, Rich Hill, Wade Miley and Mike Minor

44:55 Reliever Considerations: Hansel Robles, Tyler Rogers and Michael Fulmer

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Bonus Episode: The Athletic’s Small Business Story | Part 3 of 3

Sat, 15 May 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Part Three of The Athletic’s Origins story for Dell Technologies ‘Small Business Podference’ series. In this episode The Athletic’s co-founders Alex Mather and Adam Hansmann continue on about the company’s expansion into the U.K., how the team got through the shutdown of sports and challenges that lay ahead. Writers, Marcus Thompson, Anthony Slater, Zach Harper and David Aldridge give their thoughts on that process as well.

For the complete lineup of episodes, visit delltechnologiespodference.com

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Bonus Episode: The Athletic’s Small Business Story | Part 2 of 3

Sat, 15 May 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Part Two of The Athletic’s Origins story for Dell Technologies ‘Small Business Podference’ series. In this episode The Athletic’s co-founders Alex Mather and Adam Hansmann continue on about the company’s first steps into the marketplace. The challenges they met selling this idea to investors, and journalists they were trying to recruit, specifically with the expansion into the Bay Area. Writers, Marcus Thompson and Anthony Slater give their thoughts on that process as well.

For the complete lineup of episodes, visit delltechnologiespodference.com

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Bonus Episode: The Athletic’s Small Business Story | Part 1 of 3

Sat, 15 May 2021 16:00:00 GMT

Part One of The Athletic’s Origins story for Dell Technologies ‘Small Business Podference’ series. In this episode we hear from The Athletic’s co-founders Alex Mather and Adam Hansmann about how they met, how an idea for better sports coverage materialized into a significant media player in the sports landscape and the spirit at the heart of The Athletic’s culture. For the complete lineup of episodes, visit delltechnologiespodference.com

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Looking for new skills on Statcast leaderboards, and Corey Brock on the Mariners

Thu, 13 May 2021 19:28:00 GMT

DVR and Al discuss the pitching side of the average exit velocity leaderboard (focusing on flyballs and line drives) before visiting with Corey Brock, The Athletic's beat writer for the Mariners in the wake of the promotion of Jarred Kelenic and Logan Gilbert.

Rundown

1:01 Looking at Average Exit Velo on Flyballs & Line Drives for Pitchers

4:47 What's Going On with Kenta Maeda?

11:30 Zach Plesac's Changing Profile

14:02 Shane Bieber's Only Skills Flaw?

16:04 An Explanation for Ryan Yarbrough's Overall Success

19:09 Another Intriguing Skill for Brandon Woodruff?

26:09 Setting Fair Expectations for Jarred Kelenic; Corresponding Fallout

30:37 Logan Gilbert Gets the Call Too

33:11 Julio Rodríguez's Strong Start at High-A

36:16 Kyle Lewis' Early K-Rate Improvement

46:57 A Look at Zone Contact Laggards

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Follow Corey on Twitter: @CoreyBrockMLB

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Yoshi Tsutsugo lets Nando down, Ian pivots to Texas, and concerns about Gavin Lux?

Wed, 12 May 2021 01:46:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss a rare tough week for Nando in the wake of Yoshi Tsutsugo getting designated for assignment by the Rays, Ian's growing love for the Rangers, DVR's disdain for starting a runner at second base during extra innings, and growing concern about Gavin Lux in redraft leagues.

Rundown

1:57 The Rays DFA One of Nando's Guys

7:23 Picking Up Jose Rojas in Deep Leagues?

10:42 Getting to Know New Minor League Affiliates & Levels

14:52 Growing Love For the....Rangers?

23:40 Ian Is Working the Phones Again

26:02 Extra-Innings Rules

36:11 Concern About the Current Run Environment?

41:12 Dealing Gavin Lux Away in Redraft Leagues? Trusting Nate Lowe's Speed?

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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Trevor Larnach and Nate Pearson lead an intriguing group of weekend waiver-wire targets

Sun, 09 May 2021 16:47:35 GMT

DVR and Al discuss a solid crop of waiver-wire considerations for the weekend — including Trevor Larnach with an opportunity in Minnesota, Harrison Bader following his return from the IL, Josh Naylor’s quiet surge in Cleveland, Nate Pearson, Adbert Alozlay, Tyler Anderson, and several other pitchers to consider.

Rundown

1:00 Trevor Larnach

5:00 Harrison Bader

7:04 Kevin Pillar

9:00 Josh Naylor

12:17 Tyrone Taylor, Seth Brown & Taylor Ward

19:45 Luis Urías & Isan Diaz

24:20 Catchers

26:00 Nate Pearson

28:00 Cole Irvin

31:00 Adbert Alzolay

34:30 Tyler Anderson

39:00 Other Streamers

45:00 Two-Start Pitchers

51:00 Reliever Considerations

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Scott Jenstad discusses the A's, sustained success in the NFBC, and in-season roster management

Thu, 06 May 2021 19:00:00 GMT

DVR is joined by Scott Jenstad of RotoWire to discuss a few early storylines with the A's, his sustained success in NFBC leagues, and a few ways to improve your in-season decision-making.

Rundown

1:36 Ramon Laureano's Fast Start

4:23 Matt Olson's Reduced Strikeout Rate

11:23 What Will Frankie Montas' Next 20 Starts Look Like?

13:37 We're More Like Jesus Luzardo Than We'd Like to Admit

20:08 What Adjustments Did You Correctly Make Coming Out of 2020?

32:21 Scott's Draft-Season Hitter Mulligan

42:03 Scott's Draft-Season Pitcher Mulligan

47:24 What Factors Into Scott's Two-Start Pitcher Decisions?

52:03 Lessons Learned About Dropping Players

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Scott on Twitter: @ScottJenstad

Subscribe to The Athletic for just $3.99/mo to start: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast

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Profar 2.0, more injury trouble for the White Sox, and a fun conversation w/Alex Pardee

Tue, 04 May 2021 19:41:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the new Jurickson Profar, the Nats' crowded outfield once Juan Soto returns, the White Sox's lack of options following another major injury in their outfield, and the most aggressive teams on the basepaths early in 2021.

Then, artist Alex Pardee joins the show to discuss his role in Topps' Project70, his inspiration for his card designs for the series, and his shared love of the Star Wars franchise with Ian.

Rundown

6:44 Is Nando Too High on Amed Rosario?

13:54 Yadiel Hernandez is Hitting; Where Does He Play w/Juan Soto Healthy?

16:28 What Are the White Sox Going to Do?

22:58 Which Teams Are Most Aggressive on the Basepaths This Season?

35:34 Ian at the Ballpark

41:59 How Much Have the Yankees Soured on Torres & Sánchez?

56:12 Interview w/Alex Pardee

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Alex on Twitter: @AlexPardee

e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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A mixed bag of bats, two-start pitchers and Cincinnati bullpen options to consider on the waiver wire

Sun, 02 May 2021 16:58:00 GMT

DVR and Al discuss the waiver-wire options to consider this weekend, including Mike Tauchman with a new opportunity in San Francisco, two-start pitchers, and the ongoing mess in the Cincinnati bullpen.

Rundown

0:47 Mike Tauchman in San Francisco

3:28 Josh Rojas is Heating Up

5:37 Yonathan Daza

7:11 Nico Hoerner Continues to Hit

8:45 Sam Haggerty Racking Up PT in Seattle

10:17 Isan Díaz Gets Another Opportunity

12:13 Daniel Vogelbach as a Cheap Power Source?

14:12 Pavin Smith's Extended Look

16:03 Kyle Higashioka Time in the Bronx?

17:47 Daulton Varsho's Lack of Playing Time

19:50 Two-Start Pitchers

32:45 One-Start Pitchers

42:51 Relief Pitchers

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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The Brewers' pitching development, April surprises, and early tough decisions w/Will Sammon

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 16:41:00 GMT

DVR is joined by The Athletic's Will Sammon to discuss the dominance of Corbin Burnes, the Brewers' recent success in pitching development, April surprises, and the toughest early decisions to make in April while managing a fantasy baseball roster.

Rundown

0:50 Digging into Corbin Burnes’ Transformation

10:28 Brandon Woodruff is Also Shoving

14:38 Freddy Peralta’s Adjustments

19:27 Is Devin Williams Starting to Regain His 2020 Form?

23:19 Christian Yelich Update

25:35 Keston Hiura’s Struggles

29:23 The Lack of Secondary Contributors

33:07 Omar Narváez’s Resurgence

37:44 Who Has Surprised Will the Most This Season?

43:59 What Early Decisions are the Most Challenging to Make?

51:13 Has April Answered Our Questions About How Teams Would Respond to 2020?

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Will on Twitter: @WillSammon

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Early deals, Josh Staumont taking over in KC, and re-thinking elite pitching

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 04:08:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss early-season deals, Matt Harvey's surprisingly good start against the Yankees, another UTR streaming attempt gone wrong, Josh Staumont's ascent in the Royals' bullpen, and several deep-league targets, courtesy of Ian.

Rundown

6:03 Making Early-Season Trades

14:04 Is Adolis Garcia Viable in Shallow Mixed Leagues?

18:42 Matt Harvey 2.0

21:17 DVR Gets Gomber'd

25:29 Rich Hill’s Rebound Against the A’s

34:06 Is Josh Staumont Taking Over the KC Bullpen?

36:23 Re-Thinking Early Pitching

49:47 Sam Haggerty & Ian’s UTR Players

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line "Under the Radar"

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Breaking down waiver targets -- Ryan Weathers, Deivi Garcia and Alex Kirilloff w/Frank Stampfl

Sun, 25 Apr 2021 16:47:00 GMT

DVR is joined by Frank Stampfl, from CBS Fantasy, to discuss weekend waiver-wire targets including Ryan Weathers, Deivi Garcia, Luis Patiño, and Alex Kirilloff.

Rundown

1:03 Borderline Two-Start Pitchers: Gomber v. DeSclafani v. Richards

6:04 Interest in Deivi Garcia?

8:20 Spencer Turnbull

10:25 Adrian Houser

12:00 Is Rich Hill a Drop?

15:59 Targeting Ryan Weathers

20:14 Luis Patiño's Opportunity in Tampa Bay

23:15 Drew Smyly in Shallow Mixers?

26:59 Comfortable Streaming Alex Cobb?

28:57 Luke Weaver & Taylor Widener

35:10 Speculating in Anaheim, Toronto, Kansas City or Cincinnati

43:14 Alex Kirilloff Expectations & Bid Range

47:19 Another Look at Adolis Garcia

50:32 Other Bats to Consider

Follow Frank on Twitter: @Roto_Frank

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Subscribe to The Athletic for just $3.99/mo to start: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast

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Stabilization points, utilizing early information, and draft-day mulligans w/Todd Zola

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 17:32:00 GMT

DVR is joined by Todd Zola of Mastersball, RotoWire and ESPN Fantasy to discuss their previous missteps with stabilization points, the limitations of max exit velocity, draft-day mulligans, and what matters when considering pitching matchups early in the season.

Rundown

2:56 How Did Todd Account for 2020 In His 2021 Projections?

6:04 Re-Evaluating Stabilization Points

13:14 Draft Skills, Not Roles, But….

16:01 The Limitations of Max Exit Velocity

26:00 Todd Brings Up Victor Robles to Appease DVR

32:02 When Might Exit Velocity on Flyballs/Line Drives Matter?

37:14 Draft-Day Mulligans

46:47 What Matters with Pitching Matchups This Early?

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Todd on Twitter: @ToddZola

Subscribe to The Athletic for just $3.99/mo: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast

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Intriguing players in Texas, Joe Ross ruins Ian's week, and Nathan Eovaldi shines

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 19:45:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss Adolis García's opportunity in Texas, concerns about Leody Taveras, Joe Ross' meltdown against the Cardinals, their growing trust in Nathan Eovaldi, the Yankees' poor start, and a big deal gone awry

Rundown

2:14 Buying Into Adolis García?

9:35 Is Dane Danning More than Interesting?

15:37 Albert Pujols’ Swan Song?

23:36 Nando's Ha-seong Kim Interest Despite Tatis' Return

27:26 Joe Ross Ruins Ian’s Week

36:27 Trusting Nathan Eovaldi?

42:05 Absorbing the Yankees' Poor Start

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line "Under the Radar"

Subscribe to The Athletic for just $3.99/mo to start: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast

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Zach McKinstry's extended opportunity, Kendall Graveman time in Seattle, and J.B Bukauskas gets the call

Sun, 18 Apr 2021 16:55:00 GMT

DVR and Beller dig into another week of waiver-wire considerations including Zach McKinstry's extended opportunity to play in Los Angeles, Danny Duffy's move back toward fantasy relevance, Kendall Graveman's push toward the closer role in Seattle, and the D-backs' promotion of J.B. Bukauskas.

Rundown

1:14 Zach McKinstry

3:29 J.P. Crawford

5:28 DJ Stewart

9:08 Adolis García

13:32 Billy McKinney

16:02 Jose Marmolejos

17:39 Danny Duffy

20:19 Jake Arrieta

22:26 Josh Fleming

24:15 Joe Ross

27:35 Kohei Arihara

28:52 Michael Wacha

31:47 Nick Pivetta

33:02 Jeff Hoffman

35:23 Taylor Widener

37:10 José Ureña

38:52 Kyle Wright

40:10 Rafael Dolis

42:36 Kendall Graveman & Keynan Middleton

44:50 Throwing Darts in Minnesota or Cleveland?

47:29 J.B. Bukauskas

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Subscribe to The Athletic for just $3.99/mo to start: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast

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Byron Buxton breaks out, Akil Baddoo stays hot, and is Kris Bryant's rebound for real?

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 16:55:00 GMT

It's time for another edition of the beat writer roundup on The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. First, Aaron Gleeman joins Beller and DVR from the Twins beat. Is the Byron Buxton breakout season upon us? Can the team find consistent ABs for Luis Arraez and Willians Astudillo? Aaron answers those questions, and more. Then Tigers reporter Cody Stavenhagen joins the show to discuss Akil Baddoo, Matthew Boyd, Casey Mize, and more.

After that, Beller and DVR dive into the early returns on the new ball, look ahead to the weekend, and play a round of "Is This Real?" The topic: Kris Bryant's rebound.

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Aaron on Twitter: @AaronGleeman

Follow Cody on Twitter: @CodyStavenhagen

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Buying into early risers, Logan Allen's fast start, and long-term questions about Tatis' shoulder

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 18:13:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss Logan Allen's early-season success, Roman Quinn's path to cheap stolen bases, taking a wait-and-see approach with early pickups, Rougned Odor as a Yankee, and the potential long-term issues with Fernando Tatis Jr.'s shoulder.

Rundown

5:27 Ian Gets Pulled Into the Baseball Card Game

8:42 Avoiding Chris Flexen, Even as a Streamer?

13:08 Logan Allen’s Early-Season Success

18:50 Chasing Roman Quinn for Cheap Speed?

22:32 Taking the Wait-and-See Approach

31:57 Ian Admits Defeat on J.D. Martinez

37:05 Yermín Mercedes vs. Akil Baddoo

42:14 Is Matt Carpenter Done? Deep League Interest in José Rojas?

50:07 Long-Term Concerns About Fernando Tatis Jr.'s Shoulder?

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line "Under the Radar"

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Tim Locastro, Madison Bumgarner, Yimi García highlight this weekend's fantasy baseball FAB and waiver discussion

Sun, 11 Apr 2021 16:11:00 GMT

Sunday is waiver day in the fantasy baseball world, so DVR and Beller are back to break down the fantasy baseball waiver and FAB landscape.

Should you buy hot starts from Tyler Naquin and Akil Baddoo? Is Tim Locastro the top target on the wire this weekend? Is Zach McKinstry getting enough playing time with the Dodgers to earn fantasy notice? How much should you be willing to plunk down on Yimi García? Which two-start pitchers deserve your attention? The guys answer all those questions, and a whole lot more.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

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Hot starts for Cedric Mullins and Jonathan India, buying Byron Buxton and Gavin Lux, selling Javier Báez and Keston Hiura, and the introduction of a 'Manfred'

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 16:30:00 GMT

Welcome to the new-look Thursday edition of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. This season, we'll be bringing on our The Athletic beat writers as part of our Thursday episode to give us an on-the-ground look at some of the biggest stories in the fantasy game. After that, Beller and DVR will cover the rest of what's now in fantasy baseball.

This week, Orioles beat writer Dan Connolly joins to discuss the strong starts for Cedric Mullins and César Valdez. Reds beat writer C. Trent Rosecrans gets into the hottest offense in baseball, led by Nick Castellanos...and Tyler Naquin?!? Then, Beller and DVR share the first week overreactions that they're trusting.

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Dan on Twitter: @danconnolly2016

Follow Trent on Twitter: @ctrent

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A Mercedes victory lap, an attempt to unearth the next UTR gem, and is Billy Hamilton back?

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 20:48:00 GMT

Ian & DVR give Nando a victor lap on Yermín Mercedes and audibly laugh out loud as his next pick (Stephen Gonsalves) to find a meaningful big-league role, before discussing Jared Walsh's continuation of a 2020 breakout, and the possibility of a stronger Billy Hamilton.

Rundown

5:29 Stephen Gonsalves: “The Next Big Thing”

11:54 Avoiding Matchups Against the Dodgers

19:09 Is Ian Too High on Shohei Ohtani?

26:23 Kyle Isbel's Arrival

31:38 Cleveland's Lefty-Heavy Early Schedule

41:13 Jared Walsh is a Beast

43:58 Ian: Go Get Billy Hamilton

50:00 Taylor Widener's Impressive Debut

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Yermín Mercedes, César Valdez and other waiver-wire targets of interest

Sat, 03 Apr 2021 20:20:00 GMT

DVR and Beller dig into the best available waiver-wire options as the first weekend of the fantasy baseball season rolls along.

How should you prioritize the top prospects that found their way onto Opening Day rosters? Is Nando right about Yermín Mercedes? Are there are any useful streamers or two-start pitchers to pick up? What should you do with César Valdez?

Rundown

2:00 Jazz Chisholm Jr. in Shallow Leagues?

4:26 Jonathan India’s Playing Time

7:42 Taylor Trammell

10:58 Kyle Isbel & Michael Taylor

17:15 Austin Slater

21:29 Yermín Mercedes

27:48 Is Tyler O’Neill Shallow League Viable?

29:03 Anthony DeSclafani

31:42 Daniel Ponce de Leon

33:15 Trevor Williams

37:02 Adrian Morejon

39:10 Steven Matz

41:14 José De León

44:19 Brett Anderson

46:10 One-Start Options: Cueto, Gomber, John Gant, Wade Miley

47:59 Jake McGee

49:00 Mark Melancon

50:37 Jake Diekman

52:40 Yimi García

54:35 César Valdez

58:55 Ian Kennedy

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Subscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month to start: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast

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Bold predictions on Opening Day

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 19:18:00 GMT

It's Opening Day! What better way to celebrate than with some bold predictions?

Beller and DVR offer up their bold predictions for the 2021 season, with big takes on Victor Robles (obviously), Ketel Marte, Yoán Moncada, Tyler Glasnow, Ian Anderson, Joey Gallo, Randy Arozarena, and more!

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Please fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurvey

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2021 Under the Radar team nominations

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 23:15:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR submit their considerations for the 2021 Under the Radar team.

Rundown

4:29 Stashing Tanner Houck?

7:27 Nando's Under the Radar Team Selections

27:54 DVR’s UTR Selections

44:37 Ian’s UTR Selections

55:45 DVR Stops Throwing Putters (and Explains Cristian Pache)

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Please fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurvey

Subscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month to start: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast

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The FAB and Waivers Show is back!

Sun, 28 Mar 2021 17:05:00 GMT

This is the final Sunday before Opening Day, so you know what that means: It's time for the return of the weekly FAB and Waivers Show on The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast.

DVR and Beller are here to walk you through the first FAB period of the season. Which available starting pitchers have appealing two-start weeks? Which potential closers are worth a speculative add. Which fantasy-relevant hitters are still sitting out there on waiver wires? The guys answer those questions and a whole lot more, discussing 30 or so players who could be interesting additions this weekend.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Please fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurvey

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I guess you'd say, what can make us feel this way? Our Guys, Our Guys, Our Guys. Talkin' 'bout Our Guys

Thu, 25 Mar 2021 18:27:00 GMT

Jake Ciely joins DVR and Beller on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast, turning the My Guys column into a show. The trio highlights the players they like comfortably better than the consensus.

Players discussed include Victor Robles, Pete Alonso, Jeff McNeil, Julio Urías, Charlie Morton, Alex Bregman, Starling Mate and more.

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Follow Jake on Twitter: @allinkid

Please fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurvey

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Tout Wars takeaways, growing love for Ronald Guzmán, and a failure to innovate

Tue, 23 Mar 2021 19:02:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss Nando's growing love for Ronald Guzmán, the benefits of utilizing 2020 Postseason stats, and their takeaways from the weekend's Tout Wars festivities.

Rundown

2:48 Ronald Guzmán’s Push Back Into the Lineup

8:26 Adding 2020 Postseason to 2020 Stats

17:49 A Fun Tout WARS Weekend

21:04 OBP vs. AVG as a Category

27:03 Auction Madness

37:52 Ian and Nando Step Away

42:07 Joey Gallo is Underpriced

49:19 Intriguing Cheap Buys

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

Please fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurvey

Subscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month to start: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast

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MLB win total over/under best bets

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 16:00:00 GMT

It's MLB win total over/under season, and we at The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast are celebrating by devoting an entire episode to our favorite overs and unders of the year.

Senior editor for sports gambling Andrew DeWitt joins Beller and DVR for this episode. The guys have strong takes on, to name a few, the Braves, Nationals, Blue Jays, Yankees, Cardinals and Pirates. Plus, they discuss some of the most interesting teams in the over/under market, including the Dodgers, Padres, Mets and Twins.

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Andrew on Twitter: @AndrewRDeWitt

Please fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurvey

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Projections disagreements and 2021 pitching workloads

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 18:40:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss a few players that the projections disagree about, how they prefer to mix and match players across multiple rosters, 2021 pitcher management, expectations for Joc Pederson in Chicago, and more.

Rundown

2:35 Disassembling the Cushbot to Understand Christian Walker

8:40 Players that Projection Systems Disagree About

16:39 Andrew Vaughn vs. Walker; Ceiling vs. Floor

22:03 Do You Diversify or Pick the Same Players, Generally?

33:13 2021 Pitching Workload Questions

39:38 Re-Examining Joc Pederson in Chicago

42:29 Players Returning From Suspension

45:56 Nando Gets Ty France in the Tout Wars Draft-and-Hold League

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

Please fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurvey

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Stashing prospects, buying into former stars, and mid-round pitching targets w/Clay Link

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 20:48:00 GMT

DVR is joined by Clay Link, Senior MLB Editor at RotoWire to discuss his expectations for Vlad Jr., faith in productive 2021 debuts from Wander Franco and Jarred Kelenic, balancing skills vs. job security with closers, pitching targets outside the Top 200, and more.

Rundown

2:11 Vlad Jr. Expectations in Year 3

9:16 Wander Franco & Jarred Kelenic Arrivals

12:39 Stashing Prospects in Redraft

17:52 Balance of Skills vs. Job Security In Closer Target

26:46 Former First & Second-Rounders at a Discount

32:07 Favorite Pitching Targets Outside Top 200 Overall

36:54 Are the Reds’ Bats Undervalued?

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Clay on Twitter: @claywlink

Please fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurvey

Subscribe to The Athletic for just $3.99/mo to start: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast

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Late under the radar targets, Hunter Greene's return, and Ian's AL LABR cabinet

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 04:37:00 GMT

Nando, Ian & DVR discuss several under the radar players this draft season -- including Amed Rosario, Amir Garrett, Archie Bradley, Nomar Mazara, and Tigers Rule 5 pick Akil Baddoo -- before diving into Ian's strategy in AL LABR.

Rundown

2:34 Interest in Amed Rosario as a Late Target?

10:00 Amir Garrett vs. Archie Bradley

14:38 Jake Bauers? Nope.

18:23 Is Nando Right to Believe in Nomar Mazara?

25:09 Akil Baddoo’s Chance in Detroit

30:04 Franklin Barreto, Cristian Pache and Enrique Hernández

36:00 Shohei Ohtani’s Return to the Mound

41:23 Hunter Greene is Lighting Up the Radar Gun

45:19 Ian’s AL LABR Auction Strategy & Counsel

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Please fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurvey

Subscribe to The Athletic for just $3.99/month to start: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast

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Young hitters and pitchers to target in keeper and dynasty leagues

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 19:22:00 GMT

Ottoneu creator Niv Shah joins DVR and Beller on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast, and given the style of play in Ottoneu leagues, it's no surprise that the guys are focused on youngsters. Specifically, they discuss the young hitters and pitchers they're targeting in keeper and dynasty leagues.

In addition to talking about players like Alec Bohm, Nick Senzel, Kyle Lewis, José Urquidy and Triston McKenzie, Niv also gets into the ins and outs of Ottoneu leagues and the virtues of adding holds to your fantasy league.

Please fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurvey

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Follow Niv on Twitter: @nivshah

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Draft season heats up, beat writer sleepers, and the search for a new Jedd Gyorko

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 03:11:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR dig into a few sleepers from The Athletic's team beat writers and discuss the chaos of juggling multiple drafts simultaneously as draft season heats up, their search for saves in Atlanta, and a candidate to fill the shoes of Jedd Gyorko in Nando's heart.

Rundown

1:55 Drafts Are in Full Swing

8:58 Making Nando’s Tout Wars Decision on the Wheel

17:00 Ty France is the New Jedd Gyorko

20:54 Is Rowdy Tellez Really Under the Radar?

28:26 A Rebound For Hunter Dozier?

31:18 Digging Deep for Saves in Atlanta

33:45 Avisaíl García’s Transformation

38:16 Javier Báez & Losing Focus

48:21 Shogo Akiyama’s Second Season

54:00 Getting Drunk For A Box Break?!

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

Please fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurvey

Subscribe to The Athletic for just $3.99/month: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast

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Draft-day decisions at starting pitcher with Vlad Sedler

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 20:07:00 GMT

This may be just one person's point of view (the person writing this show description), but this is going to be one of the most fun-filled years to draft pitchers in a long time. From pocket aces, to the increasing price of pitching, to the likelihood that at least 30 starters will be off the board within the first 100 picks of most drafts, the posture a drafter takes at starting pitcher will determine, more than any one input, the overall shape of his or her team.

Vlad Sedler joins DVR and Beller on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast to break it all down. They discuss the risk surrounding the increasing price of mid-round pitchers, the early round guys they want to avoid, and late starters to target. They also get into a number of draft-day player vs. player debates, including Trevor Bauer vs. Yu Darvish, Brandon Woodruff vs. Clayton Kershaw, and Blake Snell vs. Tyler Glasnow.

Please fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurvey

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Follow Vlad on Twitter: @RotoGut

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Ian's return, Moncada & Ketel Marte rebounds, and a new approach to dynasty rankings

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 03:56:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the opportunities for several young players in Seattle, potential rebounds from Yoán Moncada and Ketel Marte, Ian's new approach for dynasty rankings, and more!

Rundown

2:14 Baseball Pods Bracket

7:24 Opportunities for Young Players in Seattle

17:15 Interested in Discounted Yoán Moncada?

27:29 Banking on a Rebound From Ketel Marte?

32:06 Ian’s New Dynasty Rankings

40:53 Rylan Bannon & José De León Snubbed

42:27 Sheldon Neuse as a Dodger

50:33 Fitting ADP Info to Auction Values

55:01 Naming DVRisms

Please fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurvey

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Subscribe to The Athletic for just $3.99/month: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast

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Talking Christian Yelich, Stephen Strasburg, Giancarlo Stanton and more with Steve Gardner

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 20:54:00 GMT

USA Today's Steve Gardner joins Derek VanRiper and Michael Beller on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast to break down the Mixed LABR draft, which took place on February 16. The guys look at the draft through the lens of Steve's team. which he selected from the 12 spot in a 15-team league.

The guys get into why it makes sense to believe in a Christian Yelich bounceback season, Yu Darvish's move to San Diego, Stephen Strasburg's discount window, Giancarlo Stanton's range of realistic outcomes, the pocket aces strategy, and a whole lot more.

Draft Board: https://www.rtsports.com/labr-mixed-draft

Listener Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurvey

Follow Derek on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller

Follow Steve on Twitter: @SteveAGardner

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Mike the Mouth discusses draft-and-hold leagues, trust in Randy Arozarena, and DVR's drafting style

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 22:08:00 GMT

Nando and DVR are joined by Mike 'The Mouth' Massotto to discuss draft-and-hold leagues, trusting Randy Arozarena and Framber Valdez, Nando's "bike spoke players", and an opportunity to take his money in the 2021 NFBC Main Event.

Rundown

4:30 As a High Stakes Player, Why Talk During Draft Season?

9:21 Why Go High Stakes in the Draft-and-Hold Format?

13:46 Trusting Randy Arozarena

21:35 Early Pitching Foundations & Framber Valdez

26:35 Pushing Players Late & Bike Spoke Players

33:01 A Quick Trip Back to the 80s

40:15 DVR’s Drafting Style as Diagnosed by MTM

44:18 David Price vs. Dustin May for 2021

48:38 An Opportunity to Take Mike’s Money in the NFBC Main Event

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

Follow Mike on Twitter: @GodfatherNFBC

e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com use subject line 'Under the Radar'

Subscribe to The Athletic for just $3.99/month to start: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast

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Talking projections, 2021 challenges, Vlad Jr. and more with Derek Carty

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 19:03:00 GMT

Derek Carty of ESPN and RotoGrinders joins Derek VanRiper and Michael Beller on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. The guys dive into Derek's new projection system THE BAT X, and its differences from its predecessor, THE BAT. The guys then use those projections to discuss players such as Vlad Guerrero Jr., Justin Turner, Wander Franco and more.

The trio also gets into how the shortened 2020 season changes and, perhaps more interestingly, doesn't change the projections process, with a look at 2020 breakouts we can trust, and some others we might want to approach a bit more carefully.

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Faith in Forrest Whitley, Hiura's move to first, 2021 closer approach, and late-round reaches

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 21:10:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the under the radar winners from the Elvis Andrus-Khris Davis deal, their interest in Forrest Whitley following two disappointing seasons, Keston Hiura's long-term value with the move to first base, their approach toward closers in 2021, and more.

Rundown

2:48 The Catchers Win in A’s-Rangers Swap

8:31 Interest in Forrest Whitley After Two Disappointing Seasons?

17:52 Keston Hiura’s Long-Term Value Moving to First Base

24:14 Mychal Givens and Recent Rockies Closers

31:34 Approach w/Closers Generally

41:33 Making a Keeper Decision: Biggio vs. Kelenic

53:15 Can You Even Reach in the Later Rounds?

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Early round draft strategy, and the resulting fall of dominoes

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 19:27:00 GMT

It all starts at the top, even for a couple of fantasy baseball industry veterans who are already immersed in draft prep. Derek VanRiper and Michael Beller focus their attention on the top of the draft on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast.

This season features the deepest pool of realistic 1.1 candidates in a long time. So, if you're in that chair, who should you take? How early must you act on starting pitchers, and what happens if you pass the point of no return? How heavily should we weigh 2020's siloed division schedule structure in our 2021 valuation of starting pitchers? The guys get into all that, and a whole lot more.

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Seeking value in the Angels' rotation, trading tips from Ian, and the Rockies' infield without Nolan Arenado

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 00:48:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the Angels' rotation in search of pitching values, possible playing time routes for Jared Walsh and Franklin Barreto, trading tips from Ian, and projections for roles in the Colorado infield sans Nolan Arenado.

Rundown

4:34 Assessing The Angels’ Rotation

10:13 Finding Time for Jared Walsh

13:48 Does Franklin Barreto Have a Path to Playing Time?

16:27 Still Interested in Justin Upton?

19:09 Optimistic Season Will Start On Time?

24:48 Nando’s Draft-and-Hold Partnership

28:33 Looking for a Rebound From Ross Stripling?

35:04 Trading Tips From Ian

44:34 Projecting the Rockies’ Infield Without Nolan Arenado

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Playing to strengths, how we begin our draft prep, and a better draft class coming in 2021?

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 22:35:00 GMT

Nando, Ian & DVR discuss Jameson Taillon as a Yankee, Ian's attempt to influence Steve Cohen, and DVR's disappointment in fourth-and-goal field goals before discussing deep dynasty league draft picks considerations, how they each begin their prep for a new season,

Rundown

3:31 Predicting Ian’s Feelings About the Jameson Taillon Deal

6:15 Bringing the Blue Check Mark to Steve Cohen

12:05 Football's Blake Snell Moment

16:04 Should We Expect a Better Draft Class Following the Smaller 2020 Group?

24:38 Thoughts on Isaac Paredes?

32:00 An Attempt to Go Outside the Box with a Keeper Decision

36:48 Level of Concern w/Wander Franco's Underlying Numbers

41:03 Setting Up Individual Draft Prep

47:45 Playing to Your Strengths as a Fantasy Player

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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Late-round targets, Cleveland's offense without Francisco Lindor, and Lance Lynn's long-term value

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 05:17:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss several late-round considerations for deep leagues in the wake of DVR's first draft-and-hold league, plus the Cleveland offense after the Francisco Lindor trade, Masahiro Tanaka's falling price, and concerns about Dinelson Lamet's health in the wake of the Padres' trade for Joe Musgrove.

Rundown

3:39 DVR’s First Draft And Hold of 2021

5:30 Ian Pries for Late-Round Darts

13:59 Ian Shares Some of His Own Late-Round Darts

26:20 A Look at Cleveland Post Lindor

35:30 Are We Still Undervaluing Lance Lynn (Especially in Long-Term Formats)?

45:36 Understanding Masahiro Tanaka’s Falling Price

47:53 Concerns About Dinelson Lamet w/Joe Musgrove Deal?

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Targeting Giancarlo Stanton, J.D. Martinez and the other top UT-only bats in 2021

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 23:40:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the intriguing and undervalued group of utility-only hitters in the 2021 player pool, the importance of DJ LeMahieu staying in the Bronx, and a Nando's foray deeper into the eBay abyss.

Rundown

6:43 Comfortable with DJ LeMahieu in the Early Rounds?

9:09 The UT-only Players Are Undervalued (Again)

21:13 Tommy Edman, Leodys Taveras, Shohei Ohtani & Jeimer Candelario

27:10 Considering the Repetition in the 2020 Schedule

31:21 The Official Prospect of Under the Radar?

36:35 Extreme Sabotage

41:38 Getting Caught in a Christin Stewart eBay Worm Hole

46:57 Scratching the Itch with Baseball Cards Instead of Roster Spots

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com (use subject line 'Under the Radar')

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Early ADPs and setting expectations for Luis Robert in 2021

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 15:50:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR dig into the early NFBC ADP numbers and discuss Luis Robert's early-round price for 2021, expectations for him in the short (and long) term, plus intrigue with Austin Riley, the seemingly undervalued Joey Gallo, and another year with uncertain playing time for Clint Frazier.

Rundown

4:30 A Podcast-Driven Industry Keeper League?

7:08 Mike Piellucci: Time Traveler?

10:31 Nando's Case for Avoiding Top 40-50 Players in Auctions

15:16 Luis Robert with a Third-Round ADP

22:42 Targeting Jo Adell for a 2021 Step Forward?

28:39 Buying Austin Riley's Improved Plate Skills?

32:39 Shohei Ohtani’s 2021 Role

38:06 Concerns About Clint Frazier Playing Time

41:31 Joey Gallo's Discounted Price

48:30 Appreciating Raisel Iglesias

52:19 Ian's Valuation of the 2020 Season

Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifino

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Building the perfect keeper league

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 06:30:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the recent XFL auction, and discuss the optimal setup for a long-term league including number of teams, roster rules, in-season settings, and more.

Rundown

1:26 The 2021 XFL Auction

14:12 Setting Up a Perfect Long-Term League

19:03 DVR Takes Another L

24:33 How to Handle Bad GM

28:56 On Vetoes & Trade Deadlines

36:28 Keep Everyone (Dynasty) or Salaries & Contracts?

56:43 FAAB is a Must!

68:28 The Real Frank Costanza

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject 'Under the Radar'

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Charlie Morton in Atlanta and updated dynasty rankings

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 05:33:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss Charlie Morton's move to Atlanta, Adley Rutschmann's place in Ian's updated dynasty rankings, Pete Alonso's long-term value, a Bowman Turkey Prospect from Nando, and paths to playing time for Jared Walsh in Anaheim.

Rundown

3:21 Charlie Morton Joins Drew Smyly in Atlanta

8:22 Adley Rutschmann and Long-Term Catcher Concerns

24:53 Re-Thinking Pete Alonso's Dynasty Value

29:22 Ew, Ian

36:34 A Bowman Turkey Prospect from Nando

41:33 Finding PT for Jared Walsh

45:55 Jazz Chisholm: High-Risk, High-Reward?

51:30 How Good Is Michael Conforto?

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2021 fantasy baseball rankings preview, a trim Vlad Guerrero Jr., and Marcus Stroman stays with the Mets

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 21:45:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss DVR's upcoming 2021 fantasy baseball rankings -- including the case for Tim Anderson as an early-round pick, disagreement about Max Scherzer -- a trimmed down Vladimir Guerrero Jr, and Marcus Stroman's return to the Mets.

Rundown

2:00 2021 Rankings Coming Monday!

6:18 A Trimmer Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

16:00 What Do You Make of Tim Anderson Going Forward?

20:15 Marcus Stroman Accepts the Qualifying Offer with the Mets

27:57 Tony La Russa, The White Sox & Being Blinded By Success

33:02 Nando on MLB Now!

37:27 Cavan Biggio & Statcast Weirdness

43:08 Projecting Dominic Smith's Playing Time

46:10 Yu Darvish, Max Scherzer & Top-20 Starting Pitcher Woes

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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Fantasy baseball's biggest disappointments, players we've changed our views on, and several Under the Radar awards!

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 17:07:00 GMT

Nando, Ian & DVR discuss their selections for several awards, including 2020's biggest disappointments, players they've changed their opinions on, who they wish they could have seen a full season from, Pediatrician of the Year, and more....

Rundown

5:05 Biggest Disappointments of 2020

12:31 Stat I'm Going to Dismiss for 2021

15:41 Player I Wish I Got 162 Games From

21:08 Favorite Ian Sound Effect

24:19 Craziest Part of 2020

31:48 Player I'm Going to Try and Sneak Through in 2021

37:33 The Player I Changed My View on Completely

42:37 Pediatrician of the Year

47:57 Player Who Will Be on All of My Teams in 2021

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line "Under the Radar"

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A quiz show scandal rocks Under the Radar!

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 01:42:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR dig into several hitter leaderboards -- quiz show style -- despite a major scandal, and discuss age considerations in dynasty leagues.

Rundown

5:02 Players with 10+ Steals, Never Caught Stealing in 2020

10:46 Interested in Cedric Mullins?

15:48 Ian’s Organic Rant

21:26 Six Players with 10 Steals and 10 Homers (and one bonus)

32:05 Age Considerations in Dynasty Leagues

38:01 Who Led MLB in Triples This Season?

44:03 GO/AO Leaders Among Hitters

57:26 Catcher with Elite Average Exit Velocity

61:13 Six Players Saw 1100+ Pitches in 2020

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Giancarlo Stanton theatre, and a 2020 pitcher quiz show!

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 23:33:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR marvel at Giancarlo Stanton's postseason power, and enjoy a quiz-show style game digging into several surprising pitching nuggets from the 2020 season.

Rundown

1:04 Playoff Observations

9:05 Starting Pitcher Workloads

14:18 Good WHIP, Bad Earned Run Totals

19:19 Sources of Saves, Elevated ERAs

27:31 Acuña vs the Marlins

34:37 High K/9, High GO/AO

39:15 Early Notes From the 2021 Mason Mocks

53:02 A Non-Baseball Tie-Breaker

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Taking stock and checking the wager board

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 03:25:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the conclusion of the 2020 fantasy baseball season, and revisit many of the bets they made while the season was on hold throughout the spring.

Rundown

4:09 How Did 2020 Turn Out for the Group?

16:53 So, Now What?

21:37 Is This It for Madison Bumgarner?

25:01 They Were Right About Jurickson Profar

28:15 Kevin Cron Didn't Get an Opportunity

30:45 Starling Marte vs. Adalberto Mondesi

33:47 Ian Takes an 'L' on Craig Kimbrel

41:08 Biggest Hits & Misses This Season

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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Breaking Down 2020 Pitching Risers

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 18:00:00 GMT

DVR and Beller discuss some of the biggest pitching risers in 2020 and assess their likely 2021 draft-day cost against their expectations.

Rundown

2:47 Where Do We Go From Here w/Max Fried

7:16 Buying High on Kenta Maeda Next Season?

14:54 Lamenting Lamet’s Rising Price

22:05 Zach Plesac and Exceeding Expectations

29:18 Tyler Glasnow and Extreme Early Risk-Reward

35:34 Dylan Bundy’s Small Adjustments Yield Big Improvements

39:28 Framber Valdez and a Massive Breakout

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper

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Title Chases, 2021 Pitcher Workloads & A UTR Walk-Off!

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 18:56:00 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss their push toward the finish line of the 2020 season, enjoying the ride even in the absence of a championship, pitcher health and workload expectations for 2021, disappointing follow-ups from Austin Meadows and Pete Alonso, and more.

Rundown

3:43 Yadiel Hernandez Hits a Walk-Off Homer!

7:47 Triple Crown Update

10:51 Handling Emotions During the Stretch Run

19:00 Is It Only the Money, or Can You Enjoy the Ride?

30:02 2021 Workloads & Pitcher Health (Dane Dunning v. Kris Bubic)

37:13 Austin Meadows' 2021 Value

42:12 Pete Alonso's Disappointing Sophomore Campaign

47:56 Buying The 'New' Steven Brault?

51:26 Is It Finally Happening for Nick Pivetta?

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Last Call for 2020 Waiver Pickups

Sun, 20 Sep 2020 13:30:20 GMT

DVR and Beller discuss the widely-available options ahead of the final weekend of pickups of the 2020 fantasy baseball season.

Rundown
2:04 Two-Start Pitchers
14:44 One-Start Options
22:00 Relief Pitchers (Spoiler Alert: There's Not Much Out There!)
28:43 Hitters to Consider

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Our First Look at 2021 Hitter Values

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 15:15:15 GMT

The 2020 MLB regular season is all but in the can, so Michael Beller and Nando Di Fino thought they'd take a look ahead to 2021 on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. Specifically, they consider where some of this season's most interesting players, for both good and bad reasons, will end up in 2021.

Rundown
2:20 Fernando Tatis Jr.
6:35 Luke Voit
10:50 Michael Conforto
14:21 Pete Alonso
16:32 Javier Báez
20:51 Mike Yastrzemski
25:06 Bryce Harper
28:52 Kyle Lewis
33:34 Luis Robert
37:00 Clint Frazier
38:10 Victor Robles
44:32 Dansby Swanson
47:33 José Altuve and Alex Bregman
52:56 Vlad Guerrero Jr.

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Benedict Ian & Future Considerations

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 19:30:22 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss new formats to consider for future fantasy baseball seasons after this year's 60-game sprint, the merits (and drawbacks) of daily roster moves, a UTR favorite's first opportunity in the big leagues, and more!

Rundown
4:22 Playing More Short-Term Leagues in the Future?
10:09 Do You Prefer Daily Moves Going Forward?
18:06 Devin Williams Might Be Better Than Josh Hader
26:37 Obligatory Tyler Wade Update
28:02 Christian Arroyo; Deeeeep Sleeper?
34:38 Checking In On The Athletic Cutline Championship
38:18 This Week in Observing Player Behavior: Grisham, Braun & Yadi
44:23 Watch the Eyes

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A Handful of Starters, a Few Relievers, and a Ton of Hitters Drawing Interest on the Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire

Sun, 13 Sep 2020 13:53:41 GMT

There may be just two weeks left in the MLB season, but this is shaping up to be a busy waiver run in fantasy baseball leagues. Derek VanRiper and Michael Beller discuss 25 players who could be added, and five who can be dropped, in their penultimate waiver episode of the season.

Rundown
0:46 José Urquidy
2:17 Ljay Newsome
4:37 Brett Anderson
5:21 Kris Bubic, Jake Junis and Brady Singer
8:46 Cole Hamels
10:16 Deivi García
11:45 Two-Start Weeks, Highlighted by Dane Dunning
14:48 Greg Holland
16:49 Rafael Dolis
18:25 Yohan Ramirez
20:12 Arizona's Closer Situation
23:03 Leody Taveras
25:40 Miguel Andújar
27:28 Nate Lowe
28:56 Tim Locastro
30:43 Tyler O'Neill
32:43 Edward Olivares
35:03 Jedd Gyorko
36:56 Ryan Jeffers
38:36 Josh Rojas
39:50 Time to Drop Your Injured Players
42:18 Any Waiver Regrets This Season?

DVR's Adds and Drops Column

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper
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Late Season Pickups & Future Trade Targets

Sat, 12 Sep 2020 01:46:05 GMT

DVR and Ian discuss what they look for in long-term pickup targets, the rise of Sixto Sánchez, the slide of Forrest Whitley, and more.

Rundown
2:12 What Are You Looking for Long-Term Buy Lows & Pickups?
9:40 Who Are You Seeking Out in Future Trades?
17:21 Targeting Dylan Carlson in 2021?
24:39 Buying High on Jesús Luzardo and Sixto Sánchez?
33:24 A Theory on Some 2020 Strikeout Rate Risers
38:56 Luis Patiño's Limited Role in Year 1
45:05 Do You Still Have Faith in Forrest Whitley?

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Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper
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Sprint Time, Choosing Drops & Batting Average Woes

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 18:45:54 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss ugly closer situation, considerations to make when dropping players, growing love for the Tigers, and Ian's rivalry with Jason Sudeikis.

Rundown
3:26 The Sprint to the Finish
7:11 Ugly Closer Situations
17:08 How to Choose a Drop
25:44 Why Your Team Might Be Low in Batting Average
32:08 Growing Love for the Tigers
36:01 Ian’s UTR Targets for the Week
41:39 The Kahn-Sudeikis Rivalry

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com (use subject line 'Under the Radar')

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Post Trade Deadline FAAB & Waiver-Wire Targets

Sun, 06 Sep 2020 18:05:08 GMT

Derek VanRiper is joined by Al Melchior to discuss best available players on the waiver wire following Monday's trade deadline.

Rundown
1:54 Is Ty France the Best Available Hitter This Week?
4:12 Interest in Josh Naylor with the Move to Cleveland
6:47 Ke’Bryan Hayes in Mixed Leagues?
9:24 Yairo Muñoz’s Opportunity in Boston
11:30 Daulton Varsho is Finally Playing Regularly
13:49 Luis Torrens Might Be a Long-Term Solution in Seattle
16:00 Luis Campusano and a PT Problem
17:44 Can Josh Rojas Play in Mixed Leagues?
19:30 Did We Overlook Victor Reyes?
25:50 Shallow League Appeal for Jeimer Candelario?
27:50 All-In on Pineda?
29:23 Is Deivi Garcia in the Rotation?
32:09 Jose Urquidy Conerns…
35:08 Johan Oviedo: Intriguing, But Tough Two-Start Week
38:53 Bidding on Caleb Smith?
40:20 Josh Fleming the Steady Floor Pitcher
41:35 Risky Two-Start Options & Streaming Considerations
49:46 Closer Carousel

Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB
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What We're Learning in 2020 w/Todd Zola

Fri, 04 Sep 2020 21:40:01 GMT

DVR is joined by Todd Zola of Mastersball & RotoWire to discuss how we should weight 2020 performances in 2021 projections, confusion about the stabilization of stats, park factors from a shortened season, and more.

Rundown
1:57 How Projections Are Built
10:14 Is It Wrong to Combine 2019 and 2020 to Evaluate Performance?
13:03 The Difference Between Stability Points and New Skills
17:36 Fernando Tatis Jr. and Extreme Skills Growth
22:11 Unheralded Risers
29:00 The Impact of the Universal DH on Pitching
34:00 2020 Park Factors
43:29 Early FAAB Considerations Post Trade Deadline

Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper
Follow Todd on Twitter: @ToddZola

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The Trade Deadline After Dark

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 15:55:03 GMT

Nando, Ian, and DVR discuss the trade deadline, Deivi Garcia's arrival to the Bronx, deep league pickup targets, Nando's love for Mychal Givens, and more!

Rundown
3:13 Did We Underestimate Austin Nola?
9:24 Impressed by Deivi Garcia
13:39 Ian Keeps Dealing
16:41 Nando Is All In on Mychal Givens
22:16 Cal Quantrill in Cleveland
24:54 Under the Radar Pickups From Ian
34:17 Are Umpires Giving Luke Voit Extra Calls?
37:24 Buying Toronto's Deadline Moves?
49:35 Did Marco Gonzales Find a New Level?

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com (use subject line 'Under the Radar')

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Sixto Sanchez, Tony Gonsolin Lead This Week's Look at the Waiver Wire

Sun, 30 Aug 2020 17:00:47 GMT

There's less than a month until the end of the MLB season, and just one day until the trade deadline. In other words, these next two waiver periods in fantasy baseball leagues could be the last significantly active ones of the year. Michael Beller and Al Melchior break down this week's wire, with looks at Sixto Sanchez, Tony Gonsolin, José García, and many more players.

Rundown
1:50 Taijuan Walker to the Blue Jays
2:53 Tony Gonsolin Sticks in the Dodgers' Rotation
4:43 Sixto Sanchez Shines
7:09 Michael Pineda and Tommy Milone
9:50 Trevor Rosenthal to Remain the Closer in San Diego?
12:18 The Favorite for Saves in Detroit
14:10 Closers Appear Safe in the Trade Deadline Discussion
16:19 Mitch Moreland Traded to San Diego
17:19 José García's Place for the Rest of the Season
19:21 Any Interest in Will Craig?
21:09 Nick Madrigal is Back
23:20 Brandon Belt Swinging a Hot Bat
25:55 Drops to Make This Week

Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller
Follow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB

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Talking MLB Trade Deadline, Robbie Grossman, and Rake Cronenworth with Paul Sporer

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 16:48:04 GMT

Paul Sporer of Fangraphs joins Michael Beller on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. The guys discuss the MLB trade deadline—and the possible fantasy fallout associated with it—Robbie Grossman's 2020 surge, Jake "Rake" Cronenworth, the benefits of letting go of passivity, and more.

Rundown
1:44 Talking Trade Candidates, Starting with Gregory Polanco
7:00 Betting on Shin-soo Choo
11:37 Where Could Mike Minor Go?
15:04 Good and Bad Landing Spots for Dylan Bundy
18:07 The Best Potential Landing Spot for Tommy La Stella
22:41 Trevor Rosenthal a Prime Trade Candidate
27:09 Any Closers Who Could Get Traded and Lose Their Value?
29:29 Buying Robbie Grossman
33:48 A Quick Tim Anderson Tangent
37:07 Willing to Buy High on Brandon Lowe?
38:49 Rake Cronenworth!
40:37 Dylan Carlson for the Remainder of 2020

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The Tyler Wade Episode

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 12:00:04 GMT

Nando and Ian deal with some co-manager drama, Ian discusses his thoughts about the top of his updated dynasty rankings, DVR regrets not asking Glenn Colton to step in for him on the pod this week, and a case is made to drop Shohei Ohtani in shallow mixed leagues.

Rundown
0:42 Did Ian Betray Nando by Meddling in His Queue?
8:33 Maybe It Was Just a Misunderstanding?
13:39 Ian’s New Dynasty Rankings
16:05 Are You Looking at 2020 Only, or 2019-2020 Together?
23:31 Nando Doesn’t Care About Winning the Triple Crown
28:22 Glenn Colton Should Have Stepped In
36:13 Dropping Shohei Ohtani in Shallow Redraft Leagues?
44:21 Ian Speed Reads A Long Mailbag Question
50:20 Buying Low on Shogo Akiyama?

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It's a Prospect-Driven FAB-apalooza!

Sun, 23 Aug 2020 16:40:19 GMT

Casey Mize! Triston McKenzie! Joey Bart! The prospects are here, and this is likely the last wave of them to arrive on MLB's shores in the 2020 season. Derek VanRiper and Michael Beller take a look at all the prospects, as well as 20-plus more players, from a FAB perspective on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast.

Rundown
2:42 Casey Mize and Tarik Skubal
9:24 Triston McKenzie
13:56 Sixto Sanchez
17:27 Matt Barnes Takes Over in Boston
19:48 Phillies Bullpen after the Brandon Workman Trade
21:39 Padres Bullpen after the Drew Pomeranz Injury
25:06 Richard Rodriguez the Guy in Pittsburgh?
27:18 Ugly Week for Streamers
29:28 Jonathan Loaisiga
31:25 Joey Bart is Up!
34:18 Ryan Mountcastle
37:10 Isaac Paredes
39:58 Brad Miller
43:48 Abraham Toro
46:32 Taylor Jones
47:49 Dexter Fowler
49:55 Jake Cave and Cristian Pache
52:05 Drops, Including Omar Narvaez, Justin Upton and Khris Davis
55:38 Listener Questions

DVR's Adds and Drops Column

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The Looming FAB-apalooza, MLB and Fantasy Baseball Trades, and More with Fred Zinkie

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 17:54:50 GMT

This figures to be a big weekend on the fantasy baseball FAB front, with Joey Bart, Casey Mize, Sixto Sanchez and others all getting the call this week. We're also just 10 days away from the trade deadline, which could also spur action in the fantasy baseball world. Fred Zinkie joins Derek VanRiper and Michael Beller to discuss all that, and more, on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast.

Rundown
1:59 Joey Bart Leads This Week's Packed Waiver Wire
6:09 Pitching Prospects Who Debuted This Week
7:41 Craig Kimbrel Back in the Closing Mix for the Cubs?
11:35 Real-Life Trade Candidates
17:06 Mid-Tier Position Players Who Could Get Traded
21:44 Players to Target in Trades
24:38 Players to Trade Away
26:34 How the Remaining Schedule Plays Into Trade Decisions
29:57 Why "Bad Closers" Are Great Targets at This Point of the Season
32:21 Non-Closer Relievers We Want

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The Trade Bug Is In the Air

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 05:35:57 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the flurry of trade activity across their leagues in recent days, plus Ian’s disappointment in Vladimir Guerrero Jr., their general enjoyment of the 2020 rules modifications, Anthony Santander’s strong start, Shane Bieber’s dominance, and a changing of the guard atop Ian’s dynasty rankings.

Rundown
2:28 Is This Offer Offensive?
6:54 Enjoying the New Rules in 2020?
12:38 A Geography Lesson
16:00 Ian Is Souring on Vlad Jr.
26:16 Checking In On the Fraziers
33:07 Lowering 2020 Expectations for Jo Adell?
38:39 Buy Gavin Lux Now In Long-Term Formats?
43:33 Updating Dynasty Rankings
48:04 Shane Bieber Reaches Another Level

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Bohm, Díaz & Frazier Offer Thump From Waiver Wire

Sun, 16 Aug 2020 17:10:31 GMT

Derek VanRiper and Michael Beller discuss the arrival of another group of prospects, headlined by Alec Bohm, along with two young catchers, sources of speed, a Yankee with a clear path to short-term playing time, pitchers to stream, and more!

Rundown
1:19 Big Bids for Bohm?
4:20 The Problem with Luis Garcia
7:20 Lewin Diaz Can Mash
11:43 Varsho, Ruiz Offer Hope in Two-Catcher Leagues
18:13 Clint Frazier Finds Playing Time!
23:06 Has Robbie Grossman Changed Something?
25:41 Speed Targets: Andres Gimenez & Magneuris Sierra
30:44 Two Tigers to Consider: Jeimer Candelario & Willi Castro
37:51 Stream City: Gonsolin, Quantrill, Young & Allard
49:17 Closer Corner: Pomeranz, Kela & Cards Situation
54:32 Drop Candidates
58:33 Buying Martin Perez?
61:21 Concerns About Reds’ Schedule?

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Humidor Hijinks, Prospects on the Rise, and the Hitters Are Catching Up

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 19:15:07 GMT

Dalton Del Don of Yahoo joins DVR and Beller on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. The guys discuss the revelation of secret humidors across the league, the arrivals of Alec Bohm and Dylan Carlson, the perils of chasing saves in 2020, when to say when on struggling players, Curb vs. Seinfeld, and more.

Rundown
1:27 Secret Humidors!
5:05 Hitters Starting to Catch Up
8:40 Alec Bohm Has Arrived
10:45 The Perils of Chasing Saves
15:45 Dylan Carlson Is on His Way
17:42 Leveraging Cardinals Hitters?
19:23 Any Prospects Worth Stashing?
20:52 Watching the Tigers' Prospects
25:08 Patience with Vlad Jr.
28:28 When Do You Cut Bait with Mid-Tier Players?
29:48 Playing Time Issues vis-à-vis Oscar Mercado
31:54 Talking Yordan Alvarez's Return
34:20 Curb vs. Seinfeld

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Yankees Depth, Ohtani's Ceiling & A Future Closer in KC

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 20:45:12 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss another injury problem for the Yankees, Aaron Nola’s early-season resurgence back toward ace status, and several under the radar targets to consider picking up in long-term formats.

Rundown
3:40 Yankees Replacements for Stanton (and Possibly Judge)
8:55 What is Shohei Ohtani’s Ceiling as a Hitter in 2020?
13:53 Buying the Jake Arrieta Rebound?
17:07 Is Aaron Nola Back to Ace Status?
22:23 Trevor Bauer’s Spin Rate Goes Way Up, Ian Turns on Gerrit Cole
30:14 Ian’s Frustration with Mike Matheny
32:37 Do You Prefer a Manager with Previous Experience?
39:42 Monte Harrison’s Early Struggles
46:22 MadBum’s Velo Drop & Under the Radar Targets
51:53 Ian Receives a Gift

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Mike Tauchman, Spencer Howard Kick off This Weekend's FAAB Round

Sun, 09 Aug 2020 17:26:53 GMT

It's waiver day in the fantasy baseball world, and while this weekend falls short of last Sunday's bounty, there are still players worth chasing in all formats. It all starts with Mike Tauchman, who should be a regular starter with Giancarlo Stanton on the IL. Spencer Howard will make his MLB debut on Sunday, and Rafael Montero is locked into the closer's role in Texas. DVR and Beller discuss all those players, and a whole lot more, on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast.

Rundown
1:54 Mike Tauchman in Line for a Regular Gig
4:50 Time to Buy in on Todd Frazier
7:39 Could Ben Gamel Lead Off?
9:58 Rockies Home All Week — Interested in Matt Kemp or Chris Owings?
14:17 Catcher Remains a Wasteland
19:17 Spencer Howard Makes His Debut
22:51 One More Mention for Tyler Mahle
23:23 Going after Framber Valdez?
26:27 Randy Dobnak and Streaming Against the Brewers
28:49 Could Bryse Wilson Be Coming Soon?
31:08 Rafael Montero is The Guy in Texas
34:46 Ty Buttrey Takes Over in Los Angeles
36:07 Would You Rather?: The Rafael Montero Edition
41:20 Drops, Including Craig Kimbrel, Sean Doolittle, the Cardinals, and Some Prospects
49:42 Listener Questions

DVR's Adds and Drops Column

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Change in San Diego, Spiraling in Houston, and Bad News in Boston

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 16:13:06 GMT

The Padres are making big changes, promoting Luis Patiño while demoting Joey Lucchesi. George Springer sprained his wrist, and the Astros are just 6-6 while dealing with a spate of pitching injuries. And the Red Sox? Well, they're just plain bad. On this episode of The Athletic's Fantasy Baseball Podcast, Michael Beller and Derek VanRiper discuss how all of those developments affect the fantasy world. They also look at interesting two-start pitchers and offenses we can stream against with confidence.

Rundown
1:02 The Changing Makeup of San Diego's Staff
5:33 Time to Speculate on These Prospects
10:32 Our Kingdom for a Miguel Andújar Trade
15:53 George Springer's Injury = More Time for Kyle Tucker?
21:44 The Red Sox are Bad
24:53 Thumbs up to Lance McCullers in a Two-Start Week
26:20 Time to Believe in Tyler Mahle
28:14 Strong Two-Start Week for Randy Dobnak
30:21 Dakota Hudson Kicks off Our List of Two-Start Maybes
32:19 Rick Porcello against Washington and Philadelphia
34:02 Why We Believe More in Alex Cobb with the Same Matchups as Porcello
36:10 No Thanks, Jon Gray
37:31 Offenses We Want to Stream Against

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Upton's Decline, Schedule Madness & More Marlins Love

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 20:21:22 GMT

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss Justin Upton's fall into small-side platoon player status, an idea to target players based on excess games remaining on the schedule, and Aaron Judge's push back toward top-10 overall status.

Rundown
3:45 Justin Upton is Now a Platoon Player?
9:17 Di Fino Family Dinner Conversation
13:13 Targeting Players Based on Remaining Schedule?
21:09 Nando vs. Costco
26:25 Is Nando's Marlins Love Excessive?
33:53 Revisiting Aaron Judge as a Top-10 Pick
39:20 IanKahn2022.com
47:24 Deep League Appreciation for Matt Kemp

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FAAB Targets Featuring Exciting Young Starters & New Closers

Sun, 02 Aug 2020 16:27:40 GMT

Rundown
2:38 Big Bids on Nate Pearson?
6:31 Cristian Javier: More than a Consolation Pickup
11:32 Trusting Tyler Chatwood?
16:14 Taijuan Walker Renaissance?
19:24 Kris Bubic Debuts; Temper Expectations?
21:27 Daniel Ponce de Leon Gets A Chance in St. Louis
24:16 Is Rowan Wick the Cubs’ New Closer?
28:51 Ryan Pressly as Roberto Osuna’s Replacement
33:45 Waiting for Another Save Chance in Cleveland
40:35 Nick Madrigal vs. J.P. Crawford
45:41 Ben Gamel vs. Nick Markakis
53:15 Buying Teoscar Hernandez & JaCoby Jones?
57:42 Willing to Drop Austin Riley?

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Bullpen Implosions, Non-Closer Relievers to Target, and Sneaky Starters

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 17:31:07 GMT

Rundown
0:28 More COVID-19 Related Postponements
3:34 Bullpen Issues for the Cubs
7:37 Talent Over Role
9:09 Raisel Iglesias' Job in Jeopardy?
11:46 Nick Burdi the Man in Pittsburgh?
13:40 More Troubles for Edwin Diaz
18:19 Those Darned Tampa Bay Rays
20:39 Speculating in Texas with José LeClerc on the IL
24:11 Non-Closer RPs We Want, Starting in San Diego
26:31 Pay Attention to James Karinchak and Cleveland's Pitching Infrastructure
31:41 Adrian Houser Worth an Add?
33:16 The Maddening Caleb Smith
36:34 Buying Corbin Burnes and Garrett Richards
39:30 Deep-League Targets, Including Cristian Javier and Jordan Montgomery
44:08 Two-Start Pitchers

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Bullpen Blues, Quicker Decisions & Nando's Moral Dilemma

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 17:58:11 GMT

Rundown
3:06 Ian Tries to Deal with Nando
7:27 The Braves Part Ways with Mike Foltynewicz
10:50 Hoping for the Best
16:57 Ian Takes an L with Craig Kimbrel
20:51 Rowan Wick vs. Jeremy Jeffress
26:50 Nando's Moral Dilemma
37:12 Playing Fantasy Baseball More Like Fantasy Football This Season?
50:01 Ian's Trades This Week
60:33 Cardboard Cutout Face Time!

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E-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line “Under the Radar”

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Fantasy Baseball FAAB on Opening Weekend

Sun, 26 Jul 2020 16:48:03 GMT

Rundown
2:44 Make a Bid for Dustin May?
6:40 Where's the Love for Ender Inciarte?
12:31 Travis Shaw and Rowdy Tellez
15:39 Mariners Trusting the Youngsters, Shed Long and Kyle Lewis
21:43 Victor Caratini's Role Increasing?
24:02 Isiah Kiner-Falefa's Floor
26:21 Phil Gosselin and Leury García
30:09 Where Do the Brady Singer Bids Land?
33:55 Willing to Chase Any Mets Relievers?
37:23 The Back End of Atlanta's Bullpen
38:49 Concern for Nick Anderson?
42:05 Greg Holland Comeback? Cut Ian Kennedy?
45:36 Any Targets in Cincinnati Behind Raisel Iglesias?
48:28 Kwang-hyun Kim, Giovanny Gallegos and José Leclerc
51:04 Tough Drops: Gavin Lux, Mike Tauchman, Brendan McKay

DVR's Adds and Drops column

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Opening Day Has Finally Arrived

Fri, 24 Jul 2020 17:47:29 GMT

Rundown
0:21 Hooray for Opening Day!
2:19 How Long Do You Hold Clayton Kershaw?
7:16 Ken Rosenthal's Piece on Changing Approach to Return from Positive COVID-19 Tests
11:01 Late Draft Bargains on Yordan Álvarez
15:12 Finding Pitchers Who Can Make an Immediate Impact
18:24 Why Beller Loves the Matt Barneses of the World
20:46 Streaming Against Bad Offenses
22:44 Watching Brady Singer This Weekend
26:18 Interesting Pitchers in Miami
32:17 Two-Start Week Coming for Kyle Gibson
34:50 Washington Pitchers to Target
37:28 A Difference of Opinion on Homer Bailey
39:56 Scraping the Barrel with Josh Lindblom, Tyler Chatwood and Alex Cobb
45:23 Where's the Love for Brandon Kintzler?
48:27 What We're Excited to Watch this Weekend
51:59 Brewers vs. Cubs Beer Sidebet

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Auction Approaches

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 17:37:46 GMT

Rundown
0:40 A Gift From Ian to Nando?
7:45 Why Does DVR Always Bid on the Same Player as Derek Carty?
12:01 Varying Strategies
15:20 Explain Isiah Kiner-Falefa To Me
21:24 Paying Up For Aces? (Kershaw at $30)
29:00 Impact of Late Spring Performances
33:21 Bids Ending in '9'
39:22 An In-Auction Money Management Tip
41:45 The Case for $1 Players
51:31 Kenta Maeda vs. Lance Lynn

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Sunday Pickups Are Back!

Sun, 19 Jul 2020 16:30:59 GMT

Rundown
2:16 Top Options: Aaron Hicks & Yoenis Céspedes
9:02 Smashing the Piggy Bank for Rich Hill?
14:20 Low Bids On Stephen Piscotty?
17:53 Buying a Jake Lamb Bounce Back?
21:27 Is Cameron Maybin Lined Up For Everyday Playing Time?
24:25 Franchy Cordero's Opportunity In Kansas City
28:22 Tricky Stash: Brendan Rodgers
32:32 Monte Harrison & The Need for Speed
36:57 A Case For Isan Díaz
40:59 Questions About Joey Bart
42:47 Austin Voth's Push Toward the No. 5 Starter Job in D.C.
45:00 Trevor Richards & Multi-Inning Relievers
49:49 Unstable Closer Situation

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Check out the Adds & Drops article for more bidding details: https://theathletic.com/1932459

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TAFBP's Inaugural MLB Wins League Draft

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 17:35:28 GMT

Rundown
0:52 Explaining the Wins League
3:11 Picking the Draft Order
4:50 First Round Begins with the Dodgers
6:44 DVR and Beller Pass on the Astros
12:13 Al Grabs Last Year's World Series Teams
14:26 Beller Loves Cleveland
16:14 DVR Loves Small Markets
20:49 Beller Starts an NL Central Run
23:16 Al Takes Us out West
29:48 DVR Hates the Mets
31:17 Beller Doubles up on Chicago
33:15 Al Also Hates the Mets
34:32 Beller Doesn't Hate the Mets!
37:15 DVR Gambles on a Couple of West Teams
39:23 How Bad Could the Red Sox Be?
41:53 We Arrive at the Bottom Tier
47:14 Pirates, Royals, Tigers and Orioles the Last Four Teams on the Board

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Reliever Rankings & Interesting Camp News

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 20:34:22 GMT

Rundown
1:57 Nando's Relief Pitcher Rankings & Archie Bradley Love
6:54 Josh Hader's High Value, Even Without Saves
12:33 Mychal Givens' 2020 Outlook
17:25 Why Does Ian Like Craig Kimbrel?
23:19 Battle Testing Rankings
26:22 Sleeper for Saves: Nick Burdi
30:45 Grouping Players On Lower Portion of Lists
33:43 Matt Kemp in Colorado
38:26 Reynaldo López: Is 2020 His Year?
47:27 Are We Underrating A.J. Puk?

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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Talking Surging Players, Fading Players, and New Fantasy Baseball Strategies with Howard Bender

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 17:34:02 GMT

Rundown
3:34 Players We Like More Now
9:06 More Interest in Middle Relievers
12:11 Organizations We Trust This Season
16:58 Players We Like Less Now
21:53 Considering Opt Outs (Which Are Fine) and Bad Behavior (Which Is Not)
25:18 Tweaks to Your Fantasy Leagues
30:29 New Strategies for the Shortened Season
36:58 Who Can Make Himself into a 2021 First Rounder?
44:12 Major League vs. Bull Durham

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Ian After Dawn

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 22:05:03 GMT

Rundown
2:45 Opt-Outs & Absences From Camp
13:13 Oh Yeah, I Drafted A Bunch of Teams!
24:11 Ian's Targets As Compiled by Steve Cozzolino
29:15 Mike Trout Sliding Out Of Top-Three?
35:09 Other July Observations
39:46 Starling Marte vs. Adalberto Mondesi
45:19 Nando Hates Social Media, But Likes Yoenis Céspedes
47:00 Is There Such Thing As A 'Reach' This Year?

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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Fantasy Baseball Drafting in July

Fri, 03 Jul 2020 17:19:04 GMT

Rundown
2:06 What Do We Do with Aaron Judge?
4:41 More Love for Kyle Schwarber
6:49 Power vs. Speed
11:54 The Value in Byron Buxton
14:45 Early Builds Through the DVR Team Lens
16:53 Leaning on Veteran Starters
20:28 Increasing Confidence in Adalberto Mondesi
24:34 Finding Steals Late
30:36 Prioritizing the Corners
35:40 Depth of the Mid-Round SP Pool
40:50 Is Stacking a Viable Season-Long Strategy?
47:33 Second-Tier First Basemen
51:54 The Value in Real-Life Positional Versatility

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Under the Side Bar

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 20:12:00 GMT

Rundown
1:54 Final OOTP Thoughts
13:14 Players Opting Out of 2020 MLB Season
24:00 Melky Cabrera to the Mets?
29:08 Optimism About Yoenis Céspedes
35:32 Keeper League Pitching Question
52:13 Adjusting Pitching Categories for This Season

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Embracing the Unpredictability of a 60-Game Season

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 18:47:17 GMT

Rundown
0:30 Nando Di Fino Joins the Show
0:54 Yay Baseball!
5:15 Do Whatever You Want
7:31 Putting Keeper Leagues on Hold
12:28 One Big Rule Change for 2020
14:29 Eno Sarris Joins the Show
15:23 Embracing the Weird
17:40 Starting Pitcher Strategy Guide
20:00 Don't Pay up for Stars in Auctions?
22:43 The Trickiness of Weekly Leagues in 2020
26:52 Looking at Player Types
28:59 When to Draft?
31:14 Brandon Funston Joins the Show
31:54 DVR Loves Hype Videos
33:05 Looking Forward to the Sprint of a Season
35:03 A Shorter Season Can't Save the Mariners
36:55 Losing Streaks and Pressure
39:50 Targeting Fun Players
41:14 Drafting as Late as Possible

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Preparing for the Weirdest Season

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 21:00:52 GMT

Rundown
1:00 It's Almost Like You Don't Like Us
7:29 More Day Games Coming in 2020?
11:39 Chances We'll See All 60 Games
16:58 Nando's OOTP Collapse
19:59 A Pod Divided: Madison Bumgarner
26:43 Buying White Sox as Short-Season Sleeper?
34:48 Unusual Paths to Success
42:18 More Movie Suggestions for DVR
49:45 Is This a Good Cary Grant?
52:11 Awaiting Answers About the Upcoming Season

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line: 'Under the Radar'

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Updating 2020 Prospect Values with Chris Welsh

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 17:13:29 GMT

Rundown
0:47 Discussing the Status of 2020 Negotiations
6:04 Circling Back to Likely Midseason Callups
7:36 Jo Adell
12:44 Dylan Carlson
15:42 Carter Kieboom
18:17 Cristian Pache and Drew Waters
21:46 Ryan Mountcastle
25:28 Casey Mize, Matt Manning and Tarik Skubal
32:27 A.J. Puk
34:24 Consider a Replacement for the Wins Category in 2020?
41:09 Brendan McKay
45:00 Spencer Howard
48:05 Michael Kopech
50:56 Nate Pearson
54:32 Mackenzie Gore
58:23 Pulling a Jasson Dominguez Autographed Card
61:26 Pappy Van Winkle vs. All Other Bourbons

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I Didn't Even Know I Liked Rhubarb!

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 16:27:19 GMT

Rundown
4:59 The Push for OOTP Playoff Spots
13:50 Ian's Meddling Gets Trevor Bauer Suspended
21:40 Timing Trades in Keeper & Dynasty Leagues
25:03 Is Now a Smart Time to Trade Away Fernando Tatis Jr.?
30:56 Ian Weighs In About The Sealed Yankees Letter
36:22 Movie Recommendations for DVR
41:11 Best Team(s) of The Next Decade

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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Fantasy Impact of the MLB Draft

Fri, 12 Jun 2020 16:41:52 GMT

Rundown
1:00 The Top-Three Prospects
4:55 How the Realities of 2020 Affected the Draft
7:28 The Cubs Got Great Value in Ed Howard
9:13 The Orioles' Draft, Starting with Heston Kjerstad
11:54 Padres Go Robert Hassell III over Zac Veen
13:31 Garrett Mitchell and Pete Crow-Armstrong
16:57 Max Meyer's Ceiling
18:48 Who Could Debut in 2021?
20:59 Reid Detmers to the Angels
23:07 Asa Lacy in the Top Tier
25:15 Leaning on Area Scouts
26:38 Trusting the Smart Organizations
28:45 A Non-Obvious Draftee Who Could Be a Star

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Come Back Soon, Baseball

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 22:14:46 GMT

Rundown
5:52 DVR Receives A Nice E-Mail
10:31 Projecting The Next Decade
18:49 Turn On Deck
20:56 Ian's Case for Redrafting 2020 Leagues
26:05 Maybe Things Are Different Than They Were in 1994?
40:06 OOTP Madness
44:34 Weighing Risk & Opportunity Cost
51:28 Show Wager Update

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Experimental Ways to Play Fantasy Baseball in 2020

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 17:56:02 GMT

Rundown
2:14 The Latest in MLB
6:08 Changes Fantasy Players in Head-to-Head Leagues Can Make
10:33 Strategy Adjustments for 2020
16:25 How Much Are You Willing to Spend on Fantasy Baseball in 2020?
19:18 Risks Tied to Youngsters and Players with Injury Histories
23:32 What Do You Do with Leagues That Have Already Drafted?
26:49 How to Move Forward in Keeper Leagues
30:39 Circling Back to Experimental League Formats

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Pod Dealing & May Risers

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 21:53:12 GMT

Rundown
3:18 Ian & Nando Make a Deal
9:52 The Writers Get Pulled Into Ian's Phone Calls
12:23 An 'Under the Radar' White Sox Prospect
18:09 Adrian Morejon, OOTP Ace?
30:18 May ADP Risers
40:16 A Turnaround for Tyler Chatwood?
47:06 Jordan Hicks' Path to Saves
52:39 Still Wondering Where Prospects Play in 2020

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line 'Under the Radar'

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Pre-Shutdown Injuries and Where Those Players Stand

Fri, 29 May 2020 17:03:17 GMT

Rundown
1:09 Safe to Assume Justin Verlander is Completely Healthy?
3:08 Mike Clevinger is Good to Go
4:38 James Paxton Ahead of Schedule...With a Caveat
6:10 Blake Snell is a Significant Injury Risk
8:33 The Bizarre Case of Aaron Judge's Rib Injury
11:51 Adalberto Mondesi's Return from Shoulder Surgery
13:18 Will Mondesi and Byron Buxton Run as Much after Shoulder Injuries?
14:33 Giancarlo Stanton's Myriad Issues and the Risk of Re-Injury
17:52 Carlos Carrasco's Overall Health Picture
19:30 Michael Kopech and Tommy John Thresholds
21:05 Aaron Hicks on Track to Return from Tommy John by Opening Day
22:40 Concern for Corey Knebel
23:44 Paths for Griffin Canning and Rich Hill to Get Back on the Mound
27:32 Returning from a Bone Injury, Using Luis Urías' Broken Wrist as an Example

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Missing Baseball & The Birds

Wed, 27 May 2020 20:11:08 GMT

Rundown
1:44 Frustrating, But Not Surprising
11:22 OOTP Update; Falling D-backs
19:33 Mistaken Identity on the Trade Front
23:07 Midnight Run & Stinkbug Nation
26:55 Expecting a 2020 Wander Franco Promotion?
36:33 An Appropriate Jurickson Profar Mention
43:58 Putting Ian on Popular Sports TV Shows
45:22 Reading with Aaron Sorkin

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It's a Veritable Pitcher-Palooza

Fri, 22 May 2020 17:19:48 GMT

Rundown
0:54 PitchCon 2020
3:31 Lance McCullers in a Shortened Season
4:45 Cole Hamels is Being Overlooked
6:29 How Do You Value Shohei Ohtani in Leagues Where He's One Player?
10:03 Injury Risk and Charlie Morton
12:08 "Stalling" on Kyle Hendricks
14:09 Buying Mike Soroka
16:16 Reasons for Concern with Max Fried?
20:58 Is Walker Buehler More Likely to Be Inside the Top Three or Outside the Top Five?
23:13 Figuring Out Blake Snell's Value in 2020
27:53 Zac Gallen Breakout?
32:03 Nick's Unique Approach in the Fantasy Baseball World
35:57 If There's a 2020 Shane Bieber, It Will Be...?
38:59 Jack Flaherty vs. Patrick Corbin
42:06 Yu Darvish vs. Lucas Giolito
45:02 Zack Wheeler vs. Zack Greinke
48:34 Mike Soroka vs. Jose Berríos
50:59 Joe Musgrove vs. Sean Manaea

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Under the Radar: 50th Episode!

Wed, 20 May 2020 18:24:35 GMT

Rundown
1:06 Get Well Soon, Dr. Roto!
3:25 OOTP Trades Galore (Nando Gets Profar!)
7:49 More E-Mails From Players
14:05 A Question About Ian's Bar Accessories
20:25 Optimism Despite Reservations of Players?
22:57 2020 Redraft Re-dos?
29:43 Handling Keeper League Contracts
38:32 Two Overlooked Padres, One Sleeper?
43:38 Buying Danny Santana?

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Talking Diamondbacks with Mike Ferrin

Fri, 15 May 2020 19:40:23 GMT

Rundown
0:42 Diamondbacks' Optimism Going into 2020
2:38 Signs of a Ketel Marte Breakout Last Year?
5:38 Christian Walker's 2020 Outlook
8:13 The Team's Plans at DH
9:44 Arizona's Roster Flexibility
11:43 The Diamondbacks' Style of Play
14:40 Daulton Varsho's 2020 Outlook
16:54 Taylor Clarke's Role in 2020
18:52 Buying the 2019 Version of Luke Weaver?
20:19 The Mike Hazen Regime
23:21 Balancing Local and National Hosting Duties
26:46 Arizona BBQ Toss-Ups

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Changing Course Midseason

Wed, 13 May 2020 17:48:55 GMT

Rundown
5:22 OOTP Updates
10:22 Ian Ponders Selling
16:45 How Would You Adjust to the Universal DH?
23:51 Draft Do-Overs for Dynasty Leagues?
32:37 The 'Weird' Question
36:08 Handling League Payouts & Refunds
43:05 Nando Pokes the Bear with Jonathan Loáisiga Talk
50:01 Dealing with DVR & The Worst Trade He's Ever Made

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Talking KBO and Baseball Roadtripping with Joey Mellows

Fri, 08 May 2020 17:32:57 GMT

Rundown
0:53 How Did an Englishman Get Become a Passionate Baseball Fan?
3:00 Why the LG Twins?
5:08 Favorite Features of the KBO
8:03 Advice for North Americans Who Want to Follow a New Baseball League
12:09 What Else Should We Know about the KBO?
15:26 The Inspiration and Planning for Joey's U.S. Baseball Roadtrip
18:45 The American and MLB Experience
21:44 Favorite MLB Parks?
26:37 Familiarity with the Minors Before the Trip
28:51 A Little Fantasy Talk
33:04 Why Trout over Yelich?
36:12 Targeting Adley Rutschman
38:20 A Few Baseball Toss-Ups
41:46 Joey's Book Based on His Travels

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Ian After Dark

Wed, 06 May 2020 18:39:12 GMT

Rundown
2:48 Nando's Birthday Traditions
8:46 NL Triple Crown Auction
13:02 A Di Fino Deep Sleeper in Washington
16:53 DVR's Case for Cutch and David Peralta
21:15 OOTP Profar Curse & Wil Myers Hates DVR
24:40 Love for Garrett Richards, Colton & The Wolfman
31:00 'I'm a House of Cards...'
42:10 Scott White's GIF Hall of Fame

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e-mail the show: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Triple Crown NL-Only Auction, and the Rays' Unique Positioning for 2020

Fri, 01 May 2020 17:24:26 GMT

Rundown
2:08 Breaking Down the NL-Only Auction and Jason's Team
6:55 Players Who Could've Been Plus-Oned
9:38 Changing Strategies in a Truncated Season
12:21 David Price a Bargain?
16:37 Player Skills vs. Auction Price
21:17 Who Gets More Saves: Nick Anderson or the Field in the Rays' Bullpen?
23:43 Ryan Yarbrough and Yonny Chirinos Usage Expectations
25:59 Hidden Gems from the Fangraphs Pitch Tracker
29:25 Toss-Ups, Including Austin Meadows vs. Keston Hiura, Brendan McKay vs. Trevor Richards, and Whataburger vs. All Other Burgers

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The Struggles of Sharing Teams

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 17:09:08 GMT

Rundown
8:40 Late Night Calls to Draft Justin Upton
13:23 Buying Aaron Judge as Healthy When Things Resume?
19:57 Nando Finds Value with Christin Stewart & Rich Hill
23:36 Rebound Potential for Jake Bauers?
31:00 Targeting Yusei Kikuchi in 2020?
39:36 Nicky Lopez is Tearing Up OOTP
47:08 DVR's NL Auction Plan
52:53 One Drawback of Acting

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Padres Closer Kirby Yates on Adding New Pitches, Baseball in 2020, and More

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 17:12:55 GMT

Rundown
1:06 Kirby Yates Joins the Show
1:57 Yates' Mastery of the Splitter
4:24 Chasing Out of the Zone vs. A Swing-and-Miss in the Zone
7:14 How the Arizona Plan Could Affect Pitchers
9:19 Who on the Padres Could Surprise Us?
11:36 Organizational Differences in Coaching and Player Development
13:23 'F-Bomb Moms'
16:21 DVR on Oliver Drake Following the Yates Example
21:11 Could We See More Splitter from Yu Darvish?
27:22 Tyler Mahle a Sleeper in Cincinnati
31:25 The Dodgers Love Changeups
36:30 How Luke Weaver Can Build on 2019
39:08 Beller is All-In on Lucas Giolito

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Breaking Down the Triple Crown AL-Only Auction with Jeff Erickson

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 19:14:19 GMT

Rundown
1:04 Impressions of the AL-Only Auction
3:30 Values Galore Early On
5:15 Balanced Spending Across Jeff's Roster
7:21 Closers in Mono Leagues
9:39 Lessons Learned for the NL-Only Auction
11:24 Any Love for Saves+Holds?
13:10 Accounting for the Unknowns in 2020
15:40 Doubling Down on Players We Bought in the Mixed League
17:28 Frankie Montas and Other Great Buys by Jeff
20:20 Jose Urquidy and Ryan Yarbrough
25:30 Excitement in the Reserve Rounds
27:19 A Few Cincinnati-Based Tossups

Auction Results: https://www.rtsports.com/triple-crown-al

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Nando's Team, Ian's Show

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 20:42:01 GMT

Rundown
1:04 Ian and Nando Join Forces in Triple Crown League
8:40 What Exactly is a Praline?
11:42 Choosing a League Construct
16:17 OOTP Check-In
25:59 Ian Makes His Case for The Last Dance
35:56 Re-Watching The Godfather
44:34 Yasiel Puig and Miami?
47:27 Taking the Wonderlic Test

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Breaking Down the Triple Crown Mixed League Auction

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 18:03:56 GMT

Rundown
3:03 The Challenges of Building a Fantasy Team in the Current Moment
8:34 Beller Dove in on Kris Bryant and Mike Trout Early
13:21 The Importance of Nomination Order
16:01 Pete Alonso vs. Rhys Hoskins
21:46 Looking at DVR's Team
27:20 Lack of Aggressiveness in the Room
31:26 Pricing on Acuña, Trout and Yelich
34:49 Picking on the Ends of a Draft
40:00 Surprising Price on Julio Urîas
42:24 Beller's a Big Tim Anderson Fan
44:21 Which Players Do We Wish We Went +1 On?

Auction results: https://rtsports.com/triple-crown-mixed

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Step Right Under the Radar

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 20:49:43 GMT

Rundown
1:40 OOTP Update
7:13 Did We Overlook Adam Haseley?
13:16 It's Just Like Watching Golf
17:16 Ranking Padres in Dynasty Leagues
22:40 Does Ian Know DVR's Dog's Name?
31:30 Michael Brantley is Still Underrated
39:18 Preferred Reds Combo
45:24 How Often Does Ian Eat Breakfast?

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March and April Risers and Fallers

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 17:40:32 GMT

Rundown
3:37 Blake Snell Takes the Top 50's Biggest Fall
6:19 Justin Verlander Also Takes a Fall
10:35 Yordan Alvarez Drops Half a Round
15:49 Clayton Kershaw Is the Top 50's Greatest Riser
22:09 Ketel Marte and a Trend at Second Base
29:53 The Guys Wax Poetic on Keston Hiura
34:48 Yankees Outfielders Lead the Top-100 Fallers
37:12 Finding a Spot for Miguel Andujar's Bat
41:14 Why is Victor Robles Falling?
48:08 A Difference of Opinion on Jose Berrios' Ceiling

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The Arizona Plan & Self Haircuts

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 19:16:30 GMT

Rundown
1:02 Dealing with Johnny Midwest
4:44 Signing Puig in the OOTP Simulation
10:37 Ian Pushes More Chips In
18:05 The MLB Arizona Plan
26:06 Appreciation for 'Some Good News'
33:04 Mailbag Dynasty Question
42:56 Nando's Barber Shop
49:28 Several Questions for Ian

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Talking Put-Away Rate and Closers with Alex Fast

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 17:05:37 GMT

Rundown
3:29 What is Put-Away Rate?
5:56 Chris Paddack and PAR
7:42 How Sticky is PAR?
10:18 Fastball PAR
11:39 Trevor Bauer and PAR
13:15 How Best to Use PAR
15:19 Matthew Boyd and PAR
17:47 Surprises Lurking on the PAR Leaderboard
19:15 Organizations That Do Well with PAR
21:02 Why Are We Drafting Saves All Wrong?
22:37 How Should We Approach Closers in a Shortened Season?
28:36 Organizational Trends Related to Closers
32:33 Favorite Closers-in-Waiting

Follow Alex on Twitter: @AlexFast8
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'Why you should care about put-away rate'

'We've drafted saves wrong again'

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Ian's Scouting Report

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 17:57:09 GMT

Rundown
4:32 Baseball Pod Bracket
11:02 OOTP Wheeling and Dealing
15:46 Did We Overlook Josh Naylor?
23:17 Franklin Barreto vs. Jorge Mateo
27:08 More Frustration with Astros' Handling of Kyle Tucker
33:50 The Strat-O-Matic 2020 Sim
40:53 A Scouting Report on Ian's Draft Tendencies
47:06 Does Jerry Maguire Hold Up?

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There Goes Bo

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 18:06:17 GMT

Rundown
2:01 Draft Champions League Basics
13:47 Walker Buehler at No. 7 Overall!?
18:09 Waiting on Starting Pitching
23:59 Bo Bichette, Third-Round Pick
28:47 Luzardo & Urías Move Up (Again)
35:02 Building From First Overall
39:50 Building From 15th Overall
48:28 What If Gavin Lux Had a Guaranteed Role?

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Filling the Baseball Void with Simulations

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 18:51:20 GMT

Rundown
1:04 Finding Ways to Replace Opening Day
8:44 Explaining The Athletic's Out of the Park League
9:33 Beller's Strategy for Running the Cubs
12:04 Beller's Belief in Kris Bryant as an MVP Candidate
16:30 Figuring Out Second Base for the Cubs
19:49 Ian Happ Ready to Be a Regular
22:48 Concerns with Jose Quintana and Jon Lester; Hope for Tyler Chatwood?
31:24 DVR's Fun Foundation in San Diego
36:24 How Will DVR Fill the Padres' Outfield Alongside Tommy Pham?
38:35 Who's the X-Factor for the Padres?
41:02 Setting Team Strategies and Tactics

Strat-O-Matic's 2020 Simulation

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NL East Position Battles

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 15:58:15 GMT

Rundown
0:47 A Pure Platoon at First for the Nationals?
4:42 Who Sticks in Atlanta's Outfield with Ronald Acuña and Marcell Ozuna?
9:37 Can J.D. Davis Be an Everyday Player for the Mets?
13:36 Will Vince Velasquez or Nick Pivetta Be the Phillies' Fifth Starter?
17:20 Breaking Down the Unsettled Right Field Spot in Miami

Follow Michael on Twitter: @MBeller
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Ian Offers Relief for Nando's Digital Hangover

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 20:10:48 GMT

Rundown
4:11 A New Fantasy Baseball League Format, For Charity
10:23 Previously Unknown Parts of Ian's Resume
15:31 Banking on an Alex Wood Rebound?
21:23 Expectations for Michael Wacha, Following Thor's Injury
26:03 Congrats, Frank!
32:28 Eduardo Escobar v. Yandy Diaz v. Luis Arraez
38:09 Nando Begins a Trade Negotiation with Ian
45:54 The Expected Impact of Delay on Pitching Prospects

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AL West Position Battles

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 10:00:02 GMT

Rundown
0:45 Who Fills out the Astros' Rotation?
6:23 Will A.J. Puk Be Ready for Opening Day, Whenever That Is?
11:26 Will David Fletcher Have a Regular Spot in the Angels' Lineup?
18:22 A Battle at First Base for the Rangers
22:50 The Mariners Embrace a Youth Movement

Follow Michael on Twitter: @MBeller
Follow Jake (Astros) on Twitter: @jakemkaplan
Follow Alex (A's) on Twitter: @byalexcoffey
Follow Fabian (Angels) on Twitter: @FabianArdaya
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Follow Corey (Mariners) on Twitter: @CoreyBrockMLB

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Pocket Aces, Punting Catcher & Helium Watch

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 17:35:07 GMT

Rundown
1:22 Pocket Aces
11:25 Do You Ever *Not* Punt Catcher?
18:36 Helium Watch: Franmil Reyes
24:21 Jesus Luzardo and Julio Urías
28:43 Is the Price Bump Coming for Miguel Andújar?
36:28 Rich Hill on the Rise
39:07 Doing Extra Prep, or Taking a Step Back?
44:32 Adjusting Timetables for Rookies
54:47 4x4 NL-only Pitching Targets

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Evaluating Recent Drafts and Auctions with Scott Pianowski

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 19:40:51 GMT

Rundown
2:03 Drafts vs. Auctions
5:12 Approach in Tout
9:21 The Strength of Patience
12:10 Auctioning in Person vs. Online
15:00 Clayton Kershaw and Kyle Hendricks
18:27 Dodgers' Depth and David Price
23:25 Paul DeJong and Other Values
28:30 What Are We Doing During the Sports Hiatus?
32:00 Music and Baseball Tossups

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AL Central Position Battles

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 19:34:37 GMT

Rundown
0:42 Can Jordan Luplow Be a Regular for the Indians?
6:24 Is the Fantasy Community Too High on Nick Madrigal?
12:57 Will Miguel Sano Get Buried in the Bottom-Third of the Twins' Lineup?
18:47 A Battle at First Base in Kansas City
26:05 Can Cameron Maybin Stick Atop the Tigers' Lineup?

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Finding Escapes & Tout Wars Auction Thoughts

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 19:07:12 GMT

Rundown
3:48 Altered Plans
12:57 Best Ball Drafts to Escape?
19:59 Tout Wars H2H & Mixed Auction Reviews
24:38 Nominating with Purpose
32:29 Yoan Moncada Discounts
42:15 Similarities in Ian's Squad & DVR's Squad
51:20 Another Escape Option: Out of the Park
57:40 Buying Luke Voit

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AL East Position Battles

Tue, 17 Mar 2020 10:00:10 GMT

Rundown
0:52 How Will the Yankees Weather All the Injuries?
6:42 Depth Galore in Tampa
14:38 Figuring out the Red Sox' Outfield in a Post-Mookie Betts Boston
20:59 Can the Youngsters Sick at the Top of the Blue Jays' Lineup?
27:08 Where's the Fantasy Value in Baltimore?

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Building From a Distance

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 20:19:33 GMT

Rundown
2:38 Relative Discounts on Top Starting Pitchers?
7:28 Hitting Prospect Dart Throws
10:39 Punting Saves
15:16 Waiting On the Outfield
21:29 Adjusting to More Teams Overspending Early
24:45 Pitching Prospect Dart Throws
32:35 The Jays' Rotation Looks Familiar
37:43 Countering A Room Driven by the Stars & Scrubs Approach

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NL West Position Battles

Thu, 12 Mar 2020 10:00:04 GMT

Rundown
0:32 The Dodgers' Depth is a Strength, but Also a Headache for Fantasy Owners
7:47 Taking a Look at the Diamondbacks' Rotation and Jake Lamb
12:15 Questions for the Padres at Second Base and in the Outfield
19:41 Can Billy Hamilton Earn Regular Playing Time in San Francisco? And Who Closes for This Team?
27:32 A Battle at Second Base in Colorado

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Changing Plans & Spring Surprises

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 18:58:49 GMT

Rundown
2:02 Changing Live Draft Plans
12:47 Buying Franklin Barreto?
17:49 Opportunity for Darin Ruf in San Francisco?
22:52 Randy Arozarena's Paths to PT in Tampa Bay
27:17 Making Sense of the Cleveland Outfield
34:00 When to Draft Prospects in Keeper Leagues
43:01 Can Chris Davis Put It Back Together?
46:55 Felix Hernandez in Atlanta
53:00 The Yankees Have to Play Clint Frazier
57:06 A Sleeper for Saves in Texas?

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e-mail: podcasts@theathletic.com, use subject line "Under the Radar"

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NL Central Position Battles

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 15:33:18 GMT

Rundown
0:30 Cubs Battles in the Rotation and at Second Base
8:18 The Reds' Outfield Logjam
14:57 Dylan Carlson, Tyler O'Neill and the Cardinals' Crowded Outfield
22:47 How Will Craig Counsell Mix and Match the Brewers' Movable Pieces?
30:39 Pirates Wrap up the NL Central

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Auction Strategy

Mon, 09 Mar 2020 23:00:00 GMT

Rundown
2:39 Stars & Scrubs vs. Balanced Approach
6:54 What To Do When Everybody Spends Up
11:35 Most Likely First-Rounder/$40 Player in 2021
19:37 The Unpredictable Room
26:32 The Importance of Timing Nominations
33:34 Taking the 'Discount' on Vlad Jr. in Auctions?
42:17 Identifying Endgame Targets

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Driveline, Prospects, and Mound Tossups with the Pitching Ninja

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 19:12:38 GMT

Rundown
1:06 The Birth of @PitchingNinja
2:56 The Explosion of Tech-Based Learning for Pitchers
4:30 Command vs. Stuff
6:25 Increased Velocity this Spring
7:43 Organizations That Have Embraced Driveline
11:56 Who's Throwing the Pitch to Win You the World Series?
13:06 Prospects Rob is Excited for in 2020
14:50 Most GIF'd Pitchers Flying Below the Radar
16:03 Luis Castillo's GIF-Ability, and the Reds' Potentially Nasty Staff
20:13 2020 Tossups, Starting with Gerrit Cole vs. Jacob deGrom
21:38 Lucas Giolito vs. Chris Paddack
23:06 Zac Gallen vs. Dinelson Lamet
24:40 Jesus Luzardo vs. Julio Urias
25:10 Luke Weaver vs. Lance McCullers
27:24 Mike Foltynewicz vs. Joe Musgrove
29:37 Michael Kopech vs. Dylan Cease
31:30 A New Podcast Coming from Rob
35:36 Inspiring Love for Baseball
37:52 The Flatground App

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Sabotage & Micro Rankings

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 19:57:14 GMT

Rundown
1:37 Get the Beeps Ready (Chris Sale)
9:32 Marlins Toss-Up (Anderson, Brinson, Hernandez)
14:40 Endgame Auction Nominations & Late-Pitcher Darts
19:26 Ian's AL LABR Experience
27:02 Micro Rankings: How Bad is Being a Commish?
32:09 Dynasty Value Rankings
39:22 Injury Concern Rankings
45:32 Late Pitching Targets

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Draft Season Risers & Fallers

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 18:58:58 GMT

Rundown
1:30 David Price & Kenta Maeda's Increased Price
7:49 Frankie Montas Gets a Bump
12:48 Josh James' Move Up the Board
18:32 Nick Anderson & Saves in Tampa Bay
27:48 Any Concerns About Max Muncy's Playing Time?
33:14 Nick Castellanos' Jump In Cincy
34:51 Alex Bregman's Slide Out of the First Round
39:06 Mike Clevinger's Slight Drop
42:08 Buying on Blake Snell or James Paxton?
48:56 The Eugenio Suarez Discount

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Statcast with MLB.com's David Adler

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 17:43:53 GMT

Rundown
2:12 The Importance of Barrel Rate for Hitters
6:31 Nick Castellanos Set for Positive Regression?
10:06 Lorenzo Cain's Outs Made on Hard Contact
13:58 Marcell Ozuna and xwOBA vs. wOBA
17:47 Statcast Loves Keston Hiura
19:47 Matthew Boyd and Strikeout Rate
26:12 Max Fried and Spin Rate
31:52 Is Brandon Woodruff Undervalued?
34:43 Tyler Glasnow and xwOBA

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Tough Decisions

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 20:08:25 GMT

Rundown
2:38 TGFBI & Early Draft Update
9:25 2020 Only: Vlad Jr. vs. Eloy Jimenez
16:36 Pricing James Paxton with His Injury
25:12 German Marquez vs. Joe Musgrove
33:14 Adjusting to Points Leagues
40:17 Tyler Glasnow vs. Noah Syndergaard
51:12 Anything Left in the Tank for Miggy?
59:02 Ideal Dynasty League Setup

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Cheap Power, Speed & Run Production

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 18:53:40 GMT

Rundown
3:18 Discounted Power Options
16:18 Underpriced Speed Considerations
27:41 Low-Cost Sources of Run Production
51:26 Clearance Rack Batting Average

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e-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com

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Risk vs. Reward with Jeff Zimmerman

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 20:27:41 GMT

Rundown
1:08 Are Early-Round Speed Sources More Reliable?
10:26 Risk v. Reward with Injured Players
19:58 Risk v. Reward with Prospects
29:15 The Importance of Playing Time
34:54 ADP Toss-Ups

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Over/Under the Radar

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 19:28:50 GMT

Rundown
3:06 Any Interest in Astros with Falling Win Total?
8:43 Buying on the Mets?
18:00 Concerns with the Cards?
24:30 A Pod Divided on the Blue Jays
31:25 Expecting Dominance from the Dodgers
35:47 Why DVR is Buying on the Rangers
42:30 How Bad Will the 2020 Pirates Be?
45:23 DVR is High on Colorado?
52:27 Nando's José De León Declaration

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Mid-Round Hitters

Mon, 17 Feb 2020 18:26:43 GMT

Rundown
3:03 Buying Carlos Correa at a Discount?
5:33 Bounce Back for Benintendi?
9:19 Rebound for Rhys Hoskins?
12:54 Corey Seager: Best Value on the Board?
15:31 Discounted Speed: Jean Segura & Lorenzo Cain
21:15 Are You Taking the Puig Discount While He's a Free Agent?
25:29 Can Khris Davis Crush 40 Homers Again?
28:54 Is There One More Level for David Dahl?
31:37 Kyle Schwarber & Franmil Reyes: 2019 Repeats On Tap?
36:38 Max Kepler: Buying At Rising Price?
39:21 First Timers in 100-200 Range: Biggio, Edman, Garver & Lux
49:11 Staying Patient with Amed Rosario & Byron Buxton?

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Draft Prep with Vlad Sedler

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 17:47:31 GMT

Rundown
1:30 Vlad's Keys to Success in 12-team Mixed Leagues
8:53 Category Targets
16:29 Co-Owning Fantasy Teams
23:33 Looking for an Edge in Projections
33:01 How Does Vlad Approach Injured Players on Draft Day?
39:15 ADP Toss-Ups

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Players We Love

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 20:12:40 GMT

Rundown
3:22 Targets in the 150-250 Overall Range
16:12 Choosing a Dynasty League Strategy
26:38 Targets in the 300-400 Range
35:23 Marlins (?!) We Love
44:07 Catchers We Love
53:03 Targets After Pick 500

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Mid-Round Starting Pitchers

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 18:52:54 GMT

Rundown
4:09 Potential SP2s? (Wheeler, Soroka & Montas)
9:59 Are Texas Pitchers Underpriced?
14:43 Looking for Value in Arizona
20:18 Helium Watch: Luzardo, Urías & Fried
40:14 Leaving LA: Expectations for Ryu in Toronto
49:22 Stock Up for Maeda & Price?

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Early Draft Toss-Ups

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 19:16:49 GMT

Rundown
3:54 Gerrit Cole vs. Jacob deGrom
8:05 Ronald Acuña vs. Mike Trout vs. Christian Yelich
13:37 Anthony Rendon vs. Rafael Devers
19:31 Starling Marte vs. Austin Meadows
24:10 Anthony Rizzo vs. Matt Olson
31:46 Luis Castillo vs. Patrick Corbin
36:17 Victor Robles vs. Bo Bichette
44:41 Bo Bichette vs. Vlad Guerrero Jr.

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Under the Umbrella

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 19:47:39 GMT

Rundown
3:22 Trade Value Shifts
18:17 Brusdar Graterol in Boston
27:59 Nando Isn't Impressed By Your Dinelson Lamet Takes
35:14 2020 Expectations for Trevor Bauer
38:31 Slow Draft Etiquette
47:41 Sleeper Candidate: Ryan O'Hearn
54:07 Deep League Targets in the San Francisco Outfield?

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Problem Players

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 18:54:45 GMT

Rundown
2:57 First Rounder: Fernando Tatis Jr.
8:03 Luis Robert Helium
18:28 Discounted Manny Machado
23:22 Crowded Depth Charts in Tampa Bay & Cincinnati
37:39 Chris Sale
41:17 Buying Yu Darvish's Elite Second-Half?
47:49 Corey Kluber in Texas
50:27 Jesús Luzardo
55:24 Fallen Closers: Kenley Jansen & Craig Kimbrel

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Under the Radar: Messy Closer Situations

Wed, 29 Jan 2020 18:14:01 GMT

Rundown
6:12 Vlad Jr.'s Dynasty League Value
13:59 Choosing a Direction in Long-Term Leagues
22:38 Messy Closer Situations
33:37 Is It Safe to Assume that Will Smith Closes in Atlanta?
37:04 How Will the Brewers Manage Josh Hader?
50:29 Quick Calls: Save Leaders for Seattle, San Francisco & Miami

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E-mail: fantasypods@theathletic.com, use subject line "Under the Radar"

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Under the Radar: Going 'Full Nando'

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 19:05:00 GMT

Rundown
3:46 Alex Bregman & Houston Fallout
12:11 The Importance of Replacements
19:44 Jordan Montgomery: Sneaky Value?
23:58 Buying Merrill Kelly's Strong 2019 Finish?
34:16 Ian's Latest Dynasty Deal
43:23 Balancing Approach w/Under the Radar Players

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