Effectively Wild: A FanGraphs Baseball Podcast

Effectively Wild Episode 2359: I Am Familiar With Winning

5 snips
Aug 9, 2025
The discussion kicks off with a candid look at Mike Trout's performance, questioning whether he's lost his spark. They dive into Paul Skenes' impressive start and the contrasts of peak performance versus aging in baseball. The banter touches on player aesthetics, highlighting Dustin May's striking look. There's a look at the rare dynamics of MLB contracts, especially pre-arbitration extensions, and a heartfelt exploration of fan emotions and changing loyalties. Finally, inspiring underdog stories from pitchers like Josh Simpson bring a feel-good touch to the conversation.
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INSIGHT

When Great Players Become Boring

  • Ben Lindbergh admits Mike Trout has become a less dramatic, more dependable player than in his peak years.
  • He emphasizes the emotional change of watching Trout: available and above average, but no longer transcendent.
INSIGHT

Age 34 Feels Like A Turning Point

  • Meg Rowley says age 34 often triggers observer anxiety about small slumps becoming career decline signals.
  • She explains the same two-week funk feels more ominous at 34 than it did at younger ages.
INSIGHT

Trout Has Become A TTO Hitter

  • Ben Lindbergh highlights Trout leading the league in three-true-outcomes rate at 51.1% of plate appearances.
  • He also points out Trout's sprint-speed and defensive profile show clear declines from his prime.
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