Talkin' Baseball (MLB Podcast) GREAT First Weekend of Baseball In The Books!
Mar 30, 2026
They break down Opening Weekend series, from the ABS strike-review system and its catcher/umpire implications to Tony Vitello’s surprising start. Recaps hit big matchups: Blue Jays sweep, Dodgers dominance, and Rays-Cardinals chaos. Standout performances, early injuries, and a roundup of players already heating up round out the show.
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ABS Is Working But Teams Must Learn When To Challenge
- The ABS system is working and changing at-bat outcomes, but teams are still figuring optimal challenge timing.
- Trevor Plouffe recommends using challenges in count-specific moments like 1-0 or 2-1 where one call flips leverage, not only high-leverage pitches.
Rolling Strike Zone Feels Inevitable If Instant Reviews Arrive
- Automated strike systems may phase out human umpires behind the plate as technology improves and speeds up review.
- Jake Stromboli and Trevor Plouffe agree delay from board challenges risks elongating games, so instant availability is key to wider adoption.
Blue Jays Opening Series Validates Offseason Moves
- The Blue Jays started like a contender by checking many boxes: new signings, rotation depth, and clutch hitting.
- Jake praises Dylan Cease and Okamoto's performances across the sweep of Oakland as proof of offseason hits paying off.