Rates & Barrels: A show about Baseball Spring Games Begin! | Team Previews: Yankees, A's & Angels
10 snips
Feb 24, 2026 Brendan Kuty, Yankees beat reporter at The Athletic, breaks down New York's familiar position group and rotation depth. Melissa Lockard, Athletic writer covering the A’s, examines Sacramento’s park quirks, lineup health, and pitching uncertainty. They survey bullpen roles, platoon questions, and how ballpark effects shape player value.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Draft Versatile Hitters To Buy Pitching Slots
- Buy bats with multi-position eligibility late in draft-and-hold formats to preserve bench flexibility and free roster spots for pitching.
- Derek VanRiper used Miguel Vargas and Chase Meidroth as bench picks to cover the infield and buy extra pitcher slots.
Spring Appearances Reveal Late Draft Relief Targets
- Early spring performances can spotlight breakout bullpen/closer candidates; J.R. Ritchie and Robert Garcia rose on the radar after scoreless outings and high Stuff+ readings.
- Eno points to Garcia's 112 Stuff+ as valuable for late-draft saves when closers are uncertain.
A's Lineup Health Determines Everyday Roles
- The A's likely everyday core includes Brent Rooker, Nick Kurtz, Tyler Soderstrom, Jacob Wilson, and Shea Langeliers, but Lawrence Butler's knee health will determine if he’s a true every-day or managed with rest.
- Melissa Lockard warns Butler could still play 140+ games if recovered, though Colby Thomas and Zach Gelof provide right-handed depth.