Effectively Wild: A FanGraphs Baseball Podcast

Effectively Wild Episode 2389: Max Effort

10 snips
Oct 18, 2025
Dive into playoff excitement with lively banter about ALCS and NLCS games! Max Scherzer's intense mentality gets analyzed, revealing the fine line between focus and frenzy. The discussion shifts to the Detroit Tigers' approach to Tarik Skubal's future, weighing contract extensions against potential trades. Catch snippets of real-time reactions as the Mariners rally, and marvel at Shohei Ohtani's astounding performance that left jaws dropped and fans buzzing. Plus, a critique on the barrage of repetitive broadcast promos adds a touch of humor!
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
INSIGHT

Start-Day Intensity As A Competitive Edge

  • Max Scherzer's start-day intensity is a throwback that can help performance without crossing obvious lines.
  • Ben and Meg debate whether such intensity is essential or performative given modern clubhouse norms.
INSIGHT

Status Can Excuse Abrasive Behavior

  • High-profile players sometimes get leeway for abrasive behavior because of status and results.
  • Hosts urge caution: success doesn't automatically justify toxic workplace dynamics.
ADVICE

Set Boundaries Around Start-Day Behavior

  • Manage confrontational energy: set expectations and avoid lashing out at innocents on start days.
  • Allow players space to psych up but insist on basic interpersonal restraint and accommodations.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app