Rates & Barrels: A show about Baseball The Expected Impact of ABS | Rays, Cardinals Team Previews
Feb 25, 2026
They dig into the arrival of automated ball-strike systems and which pitchers and calls will be most affected. They analyze how spring training challenge habits and umpire angle errors predict MLB outcomes. They preview the Rays’ crowded infield/outfield battles and roster puzzles. They examine the Cardinals’ youth-driven rebuild, lineup construction, and rotation and bullpen opportunities.
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Rays Manage Multiple Timelines Simultaneously
- The Rays juggle multiple timelines, blending veterans and prospects, producing constant competition for roster roles.
- Eno lists recent ins/outs (Brandon Lau, Josh Lowe out; Cedric Mullins, Gavin Lux in) showing simultaneous win‑now and long‑term planning.
Draft High K High Walk Prospects Late
- In fantasy drafts, target high‑K/high‑BB prospects like Carson Williams as late picks because they have two realistic paths to value.
- Eno cites MLB examples (James Wood, Mike Trout) where high K rates paired with elite power still produce stars.
Lefty Heavy Rays Force Platoon Choices
- The Rays face platoon/design constraints with four lefty‑heavy outfielders due to the Rule of Five and limited bench spots.
- Eno explains you realistically can only platoon three positions, forcing creative lineup decisions or unexpected everyday roles.