Talkin' Baseball (MLB Podcast) Is Cal Raleigh the MVP Front-Runner?
Sep 25, 2025
The hosts dive into the intriguing AL MVP race, pitting Cal Raleigh against Aaron Judge, exploring each player’s milestones and impact on their teams. They discuss the excitement of expanded playoffs and how it affects engagement. A fun debate emerges over which unlikely playoff teams fans are rooting for. The conversation also touches on the NL MVP race, weighing Ohtani against Schwarber and Soto. Plus, they define what it means to be a true 'ball knower' and share some humorous anecdotes about Chicago beef.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Lobby Mets Fan Repeats Same Joke
- Jake and Joe describe meeting an elderly Mets fan in a hotel lobby who keeps repeating the same Aaron Judge joke.
- The hosts use the story to bond over shared baseball fandom and the ritual of fandom anecdotes.
Bullpen Shapes October Fears
- Joe names the San Diego Padres as the most feared NL matchup because of their dominant bullpen.
- He highlights how late-game bullpen acquisitions change October matchup dynamics.
Small Ball Can Beat Star Power
- Jolly says teams that play small ball and fundamentals can upset star-powered clubs in a series.
- He singles out the Guardians as a matchup that can exploit weaknesses with bunting and bullpen depth.