Rates & Barrels: A show about Baseball
The Athletic
In baseball, numbers are everywhere. But they’re not just numbers. For Derek VanRiper and Eno Sarris, they’re the keys to solving the most fun problem in sports.Every weekday, join DVR and Eno as they unpack baseball in ways you’ve never heard before, endeavoring to figure out all they can about a sport that’s constantly changing. Alongside contributors Britt Ghiroli, Trevor May and Jed Lowrie, the Rates & Barrels crew breaks down all the latest MLB news through an analytical lens, feeding your unhealthy addiction to numbers, while helping you master your fantasy baseball GM skills. But wait, there's more: come back for Saturday mornings in Starkville, where Jayson Stark and Doug Glanville talk to some of the most important players, coaches, and thought leaders in the league. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 3, 2025 • 1h 9min
Tons of weekend news & Where the Money Went with Eric Samulski
Eric Samulski, a baseball writer for Rotoworld and co-host of the On the Corner podcast, joins to dive into a whirlwind of weekend baseball happenings. They discuss key player injuries, including Mookie Betts's fractured toe, and the effects on fantasy leagues. Highlights include insights on rookie call-ups like Jac Caglianone and strategic roster management for teams facing injuries. Plus, they explore budget-friendly fantasy strategies that could yield big returns this season!
May 30, 2025 • 1h 5min
Prospect Watch with Geoff Pontes & Weekend Waivers
Join Geoff Pontes, a Baseball America scout with a keen eye for emerging talent, as he dives into the latest wave of prospects on the brink of making big league debuts. He highlights players like Eduardo Quintero and Sal Stewart, discussing their potential impact in the fantasy world. The chat also covers major player moves, including Mike Trout's return and recent trades affecting team dynamics. Plus, get the scoop on savvy weekend waiver picks to elevate your fantasy team strategy!
May 29, 2025 • 57min
Reliever Bonanza!!
Join Eno and Trevor as they dive into the fascinating world of baseball relievers. They break down the elite talents of the past four seasons and spotlight future stars. From Tim Anderson's surprising DFA to detailed analyses of pitchers like Jason Adam and Jeff Hoffman, the hosts share insights on unique pitching styles and mechanics. Discover the evolving roles of relievers in today’s game, along with emerging young players to watch. It's a thrilling ride through high-pressure pitching dynamics!
May 28, 2025 • 1h 1min
Young hitters and their swing paths
The discussion dives into the mechanics and swing paths of young baseball hitters, highlighting emerging stars like Junior Caminero and their potential for growth. There's an emotional exploration of parents in youth sports, emphasizing the mental resilience needed for success. Hot and cold recovery techniques are reviewed, alongside critiques of the Rangers' performance. Comparisons of swing mechanics among notable players reveal key insights into swing efficiency and batting performance, providing valuable tips for fantasy baseball enthusiasts.
May 27, 2025 • 1h 3min
Statcast Surprises & Grouping Hitters by Swing Traits w/Joshua Rodrigues
Joining the discussion is Joshua Rodrigues, a skilled baseball coach known for his expertise in hitting and swing data analysis. They dive into how to classify hitters differently using cutting-edge swing data from Baseball Savant. The conversation covers the importance of swing traits like bat speed, attack angle, and swing path tilt. Rodrigues also shares insights on how understanding these metrics can enhance coaching strategies and inform player development.
May 23, 2025 • 1h 9min
Ronald Acuña Jr. and George Kirby are Back!
Niv Shah, Senior Hot Dog Correspondent and founder of Ottoneu, joins to dish on the latest baseball buzz. They analyze George Kirby's impressive return from injury and Ronald Acuña Jr.'s potential impact as he returns from a second ACL tear. The conversation includes player evaluations like Matt Shaw's fantasy viability, while exploring rookie prospects Denzel Clarke and Robert Hassel III. Plus, Niv shares tasty tidbits about unique hot dog offerings at Nationals Park, blending sports analysis with a side of humor!
May 21, 2025 • 59min
Digging Into New Swing Path & Attack Angle Leaderboards
Explore the groundbreaking swing path and attack angle data from Baseball Savant that could reshape player performance insights. Discover whether flatter swings yield higher hitting floors and the challenges in altering swing mechanics. Delve into the imminent arrival of Automatic Ball Strikes and its potential impact on Majors. Plus, the hosts reflect on 2025 predictions they'd like to take back, highlighting the unpredictability of baseball. Join in on the fascinating analytics that could change the game!
May 19, 2025 • 54min
A Weekend Filled with All Things Baseball
The podcast dives into a whirlwind of baseball news with the firing of Orioles' manager Brandon Hyde making headlines. José Alvarado faces an 80-game suspension due to a PED test failure, while Mick Abel shines in his debut. The discussion also covers the challenges of Hayden Wesneski's Tommy John surgery and the anticipation around Matt Shaw's return. They analyze fantasy baseball spending trends, exploring player performance impacts and roster strategies. Plus, the Angels sweep the Dodgers in an exciting Freeway Series!
May 16, 2025 • 1h 4min
Rivalry Weekend Waiver Wire Preview
Byron Buxton and Carlos Correa face concussion protocol, raising concerns about player safety. The Royals show signs of improvement while fantasy managers weigh their options for Rivalry Weekend. Emerging talents like Alexander Canario and the quirky dynamics of unique rivalries add excitement to team matchups. Insights on pitcher performance and waiver wire strategies for players like Josh Lowe help navigate the fantasy landscape. The evolving batting strategies of stars like Juan Soto enhance the competitive spirit in MLB.
May 15, 2025 • 1h 2min
When Do You Worry About Secondary Pitches?
The hosts dive into the recent reinstatement of iconic figures like Shoeless Joe Jackson, unraveling the complexities of baseball's past scandals. They discuss the importance of secondary pitches, analyzing when a pitcher's reliance on fastballs becomes a liability. Insights on the struggles of young pitchers and the necessity of diversifying their arsenals emerge. The conversation also touches on ownership dynamics and how they shape team development, alongside the tactical adjustments players must make in response to secondary pitches.
