Rates & Barrels: A show about Baseball Ronald Acuña Jr. and George Kirby are Back!
May 23, 2025
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!
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George Kirby's Promising Return
- George Kirby's velocity and pitch movement looked very promising in his first start post-injury. - His command was off, but that likely improves as he progresses back to form.
Acuna's Smart Short Rehab
- Ronald Acuna Jr. returned with strong minor league hitting but no stolen bases yet. - His rehab was shorter this time, possibly due to prior experience with the injury.
Concerns Over Renell Blanco and Astros Depth
- Astros' Renell Blanco shows worrying decline in velocity and stuff. - His injury and performance issues raise concerns about Astros' rotation depth.