Effectively Wild: A FanGraphs Baseball Podcast

Effectively Wild Episode 2385: Must-Win Shame

11 snips

Oct 10, 2025

The hosts delve into the overuse of the term 'must-win' in baseball, challenging its appropriateness. They dissect the Blue Jays' triumph over the Yankees, celebrating Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s electrifying performance. A lively debate unfolds over Aaron Judge's postseason evolution and Clayton Kershaw's legacy after a tough playoff outing. They also analyze sacrifice bunting strategies and reflect on Bryce Harper's humorous childbirth remark, all while enjoying the emotional rollercoaster of the postseason.

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INSIGHT

Reserve "Must-Win" For Elimination Only

The hosts argue "must-win game" is overused and should be reserved for true elimination games. They say short series make the term especially inappropriate because comebacks are feasible.

ADVICE

Ask For Time Early And Clearly

Request time early and explicitly rather than presuming the umpire will grant it. Avoid stepping out late in the pitcher's delivery because umpires can and should deny late timeouts.

ANECDOTE

Vladdy's Postgame Roast Of Yankees

Ben and Meg enjoyed Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s exuberant postgame taunting of the Yankees and the Fox panel's reactions. They highlighted David Ortiz's role and the show's entertainment value even if Yankees fans disliked it.

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