Rates & Barrels: A show about Baseball Venezuela Brings Home the WBC Title & Best Organizations for Pitching Development
Mar 18, 2026
Lance Brozdowski, a player development analyst who researches pitching development and acquisition, joins to discuss his pitching development survey and organizational rankings. He breaks down which teams are improving, how quickly development can turn around, metrics for minor-league pitching success, and several rising pitching prospects and dynasty sleepers.
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Venezuela's Title Sparks A Generational Boost
- Venezuela's win created a nationwide celebration and will inspire young Venezuelan players to chase the international stage.
- Derek VanRiper noted it was Venezuela's first international baseball title since 1945 and prompted a national day off.
Reputation Keeps Dodgers Ranked First
- Survey respondents still rank the Dodgers top for pitching development despite recent minor-league struggles.
- Lance Brozdowski suggests reputational momentum and their high-ceiling approach explain why peers keep them at the top.
Alignment Between Scouting And Development Drives Success
- Organizational alignment between acquisition and development separates good teams from great ones.
- Brozdowski argued the Guardians pair strong acquisition with development integration, raising their long-term upside.