Rates & Barrels: A show about Baseball

The Athletic
The Athletic
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In baseball, numbers are everywhere. But they’re not just numbers. For Derek VanRiper and Eno Sarris, they’re the keys to solving the most fun problem in sports. Every weekday, join DVR and Eno as they unpack baseball in ways you’ve never heard before, endeavoring to figure out all they can about a sport that’s constantly changing. Alongside contributors Britt Ghiroli, Trevor May and Jed Lowrie, the Rates & Barrels crew breaks down all the latest MLB news through an analytical lens, feeding your unhealthy addiction to numbers, while helping you master your fantasy baseball GM skills. But wait, there's more: come back for Saturday mornings in Starkville, where Jayson Stark and Doug Glanville talk to some of the most important players, coaches, and thought leaders in the league. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 1 day ago

    Inside Buster Posey’s Difficult First Years Running the Giants

    Buster Posey is a San Francisco Giants legend — but could running the team put that legacy at risk? Britt Ghiroli joins DVR and Eno Sarris to discuss her exclusive reporting on Posey’s transition from franchise icon to president of baseball operations, the decisions that have defined his tenure so far, and what comes next for the struggling Giants. They also break down the major roster decisions of the Posey era, including the Rafael Devers trade, Willy Adames contract and Matt Chapman, while looking at whether San Francisco can remain competitive as its next wave of young talent develops. With much of the Giants’ best prospect talent still years away from the majors, how should Posey approach the offseason and build a bridge to the organization’s future? DVR, Eno and Britt also examine growing concerns surrounding the Philadelphia Phillies. Philadelphia's offense remains near the bottom of MLB in wRC+, the bullpen has struggled to protect leads, and the Phillies find themselves in a tightening National League playoff race with the San Diego Padres and Arizona Diamondbacks. Plus, Hunter Greene needs a second Tommy John surgery, potentially sidelining the Cincinnati Reds ace for most or all of 2027. What does Greene's latest injury mean for Cincinnati's future, and is pressure mounting on the Reds' front office after six seasons under Nick Krall? 🎧 Rates & Barrels with Derek Van Riper, Eno Sarris and Britt Ghiroli. First Pitch Arizona: https://www.baseballhq.com/pricing/first-pitch-arizona-2026 Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.social Follow Eno on Bluesky: @enosarris.bsky.social e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/FyBa9f3wFe Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels Britt's article on Buster Posey https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7499186/2026/08/13/san-francisco-giants-buster-posey-legacy/ Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris Contributor: Britt Ghiroli Executive Producer: McEnroe Francis Editor: McEnroe Francis Thumbnail Courtesy: Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) 00:00 Today on Rates & Barrels 04:18 Field of Dreams Game Returns 07:38 Is It Time to Worry About the Phillies? 12:46 Phillies on the Outside of NL Playoff Picture 15:04 Inside Buster Posey’s Giants Gamble 18:19 Evaluating the Rafael Devers Trade 21:59 What Happened to the Giants’ Pitching? 26:06 Are the Giants Falling Behind Other Front Offices? 29:15 What Could Posey Have Done Differently? 32:52 The Tony Vitello Gamble 38:42 Does Posey Have the Right People Around Him? 42:54 How Can Posey Fix the Giants? 47:44 What Happened to Willy Adames? 55:29 How Long Will the Giants’ Rebuild Take? 57:16 Hunter Greene Needs Another Tommy John Surgery 1:01:13 How Long Should MLB Front Offices Get? 1:06:56 Is It Time for Changes in Cincinnati? 1:10:36 What’s Next for the A’s Front Office? 1:14:45 Thanks for Watching #phillies #sanfranciscogiants #mlbwildcard #cincinnatireds Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  2. 2 days ago

    Guardians Collapse Opens Up a WILD AL Central Race

    The Cleveland Guardians once looked like they were cruising toward an AL Central title. Now, after losing 13 of 17, Cleveland has fallen back into one of baseball’s most unpredictable division races. DVR and Eno Sarris are joined by Zack Meisel to break down what has gone wrong for the Guardians and whether they can turn their season around. The guys take a deep dive into the AL Central playoff race, where the Detroit Tigers, Chicago White Sox, Minnesota Twins and Guardians remain tightly packed. Are the Tigers actually the best team in the division even after moving Tarik Skubal at the trade deadline? And could young players like Max Clark help swing the race down the stretch? Then, the Rates & Barrels mailbag opens with a fascinating question: Are Dodgers prospects consistently overrated? DVR and Eno look back at Los Angeles’ highly ranked prospects to separate prospect hype from the reality of player development. Plus, they examine River Ryan’s long-term outlook and injury history, whether Jake McCarthy's breakout is sustainable, the Brewers' unusual save situations involving Chad Patrick, and what to make of Jake Bauers' strong season. Find us on Instagram for even more Rates & Barrels content! Like, Subscribe and drop us a comment! First Pitch Arizona: https://www.baseballhq.com/pricing/first-pitch-arizona-2026 Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.social Follow Eno on Bluesky: @enosarris.bsky.social e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/FyBa9f3wFe Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris Contributor: Zack Meisel Executive Producer: McEnroe Francis Editor: McEnroe Francis #tigers #guardians #whitesox #dodgers #mlbwildcard 00:00 - Today on Rates & Barrels 01:24 - Breaking Down the Wild AL Central Race 03:20 - Who Is Actually the Best Team in the AL Central? 11:14 - Which AL Central Lineup Is Best? 15:40 - Why the Tigers Still Look Like the Team to Beat 16:46 - Max Clark’s Impressive MLB Start 20:00 - Young White Sox & the AL Central’s X-Factors 24:30 - What’s Gone Wrong With the Cleveland Guardians? 29:01 - Steven Kwan’s Turnaround 31:07 - Why Cleveland’s Offense Struggles in Big Moments 34:42 - The Guardians’ Young Hitters 37:26 - Cleveland’s Pitching & Bullpen Workload 39:31- Did the Guardians Do Enough at the Trade Deadline? 43:02 - Mailbag: Are Dodgers Prospects Overrated? 45:12 - What Happened to the Dodgers’ Top Prospects? 49:36 - How Often Do Top Prospects Actually Hit? 51:18 - River Ryan’s Talent vs. Injury Risk 57:48 - Is Jake McCarthy’s Breakout Sustainable? 1:01:53 - What’s Going On With the Brewers’ Saves? 1:03:16 - Is Jake Bauers’ Breakout for Real? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  3. 2 days ago

    What MLB Pitchers Are REALLY Thinking on the Mound

    How do pitchers handle doubt, failure and the pressure of knowing one bad pitch can change an outing? Trevor May joins DVR and Eno for a conversation about the mental side of pitching in the major leagues. Trevor explains the battle to convince yourself that you belong, how pitchers build confidence and an on-field persona, and why the mental side of the game can be every bit as important as mechanics or stuff. Plus, DVR, Eno and Trevor discuss the latest pitching news and performances around MLB, along with one of baseball's strangest rules sequences after the Red Sox scored against the Blue Jays on a rare timing play. They explain why the run counted, what Toronto could have done differently, and how an incorrect scoreboard helped create the confusion. Finally, Trevor takes the show inside his post-MLB experience with Banana Ball, including what it's like competing in a completely different baseball environment and the adjustments that come with stepping back onto the mound. Rates & Barrels brings together advanced baseball analysis, pitching development, fantasy baseball strategy and the perspective of someone who has experienced the mental and physical challenges of pitching in the major leagues. Like, Subscribe and drop us a comment! First Pitch Arizona: https://www.baseballhq.com/pricing/first-pitch-arizona-2026 Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.social Follow Eno on Bluesky: @enosarris.bsky.social e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/FyBa9f3wFe Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris Contributor: Trevor May Executive Producer: McEnroe Francis Editor: McEnroe Francis Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  4. 4 days ago

    The Truth Behind Boston's Breakout

    The Red Sox aren't cheating—they're simply playing better baseball. DVR and Eno break down why Boston's offense has transformed over the last three months, examining the coaching changes, a dramatically more aggressive approach in the strike zone and why the numbers suggest this turnaround is completely sustainable—not the result of anything nefarious. They also react to the growing online conspiracy theories surrounding Boston's recent surge and explain why the underlying metrics tell a much different story. Elsewhere around baseball, the Dodgers continue to pile up pitching while questions remain about their aging offense after another series against Arizona. The guys discuss Eduardo Rodriguez's resurgence, Brandon Pfaadt's adjustments, Ryan Waldschmidt's development, and whether Los Angeles should have any real concerns heading toward October. The Tigers welcomed Jackson Jobe back to the rotation, and his electric season debut has fantasy managers—and Detroit fans—dreaming big. DVR and Eno explain why Jobe's Stuff+ and Location+ numbers make him one of the most exciting pitching pickups of the season and whether he's ready to become a major weapon down the stretch. The show also covers Garrett Cole's encouraging return to form, Peyton Tolle's incredible rise and what the latest offensive trends around baseball tell us about which teams are built for October. Like, Subscribe and drop us a comment! First Pitch Arizona: https://www.baseballhq.com/pricing/first-pitch-arizona-2026 Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.social Follow Eno on Bluesky: @enosarris.bsky.social e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/FyBa9f3wFe Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris Executive Producer: McEnroe Francis Editor: McEnroe Francis Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  5. 6 days ago ·  Video

    Starkville | Dave Dombrowski Clears the Air With Bryce Harper

    The Phillies made one of the biggest splashes at the trade deadline by landing a three-time batting champion, and Dave Dombrowski joins Jayson and Doug to break down how it all came together. The guys also look back at a whirlwind deadline that saw a former No. 1 overall pick dealt within the division, while Doug shares what it was like to be traded himself at the 2003 deadline. Plus, another edition of Strange But True heads to the Motor City for a one-of-a-kind line score you won't believe. Rundown: 2:34 Adley Rutschman Traded to Boston 5:00 Doug Deadline Deal 12:47 Dave Dombrowski Visits Starkville 13:50 Luis Arraez Trade Impact 18:24 Trade Deadline Reaction 43:36 Defeating a Juggernaut 46:39 Dave’s Future in Baseball 47:54 Strange But True Follow Jayson on Bluesky: @jaysonst.bsky.social Follow Doug on Bluesky: @dougglanville.bsky.social E-mail: starkville@theathletic.com Starkville Hotline: (347) 313-8371 Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels Hosts: Jayson Stark & Doug Glanville With: Dave Dombrowski Producer: Jason Potere Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  6. 7 Aug

    Did the Tigers Make Baseball's Biggest Trade Deadline Mistake?

    The MLB Trade Deadline is over, but the biggest debate is just beginning. Jayson Stark joins DVR and Eno to break down whether modern front offices have become too focused on future value—and whether the Detroit Tigers made the biggest mistake of the deadline by trading Tarik Skubal while sitting in the middle of a playoff race. The conversation dives into the philosophy behind today's trade market, why more teams are willing to sacrifice tomorrow for today, and whether aggressive executives like A.J. Preller and Dave Dombrowski are becoming the exception rather than the rule. The trio also discusses why rental prices climbed this season, how the Red Sox approached the deadline differently, and what other contenders can learn from Boston's aggressive strategy. Later in the episode, the focus shifts to fantasy baseball as DVR and Eno identify the biggest winners and losers following the deadline, highlighting new opportunities, lineup changes and playing-time battles that could shape fantasy leagues over the final two months of the season. Whether you're following the playoff race, preparing for fantasy baseball's stretch run, or looking for deeper insight into how today's front offices think, this episode of Rates & Barrels has you covered. #Dodgers #tigers #mlbwildcard #mlbtradedeadline First Pitch Arizona: https://www.baseballhq.com/pricing/first-pitch-arizona-2026 Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.social Follow Eno on Bluesky: @enosarris.bsky.social e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/FyBa9f3wFe Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris Executive Producer: McEnroe Francis Editor: McEnroe Francis Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  7. 6 Aug

    Which Team Has Baseball's Best Playoff Rotation?

    Are the Los Angeles Dodgers really the team with the best playoff rotation in baseball? DVR and Eno rank every MLB contender's projected postseason rotation, debating where the Dodgers, Phillies, Brewers, Yankees, Mariners, Pirates and every other playoff hopeful belong heading into October. Then they compare their rankings against the numbers to see where the biggest surprises emerge. Before diving into the tier list, DVR and Eno examine whether Paul Skenes is actually struggling or simply suffering from bad luck. They break down the Pirates ace's recent stretch, discuss why his strikeout rate still points toward elite production, and explain why now may be the perfect time to buy low in fantasy baseball. The guys also discuss Chris Sale's incredible resurgence as the Braves ace continues throwing harder than ever at age 37. Is Sale building a Hall of Fame résumé, and how sustainable is this version of one of baseball's most dominant pitchers? Finally, they look at Cleveland prospect Angel Genao's impressive four-hit MLB debut, what it means for the Guardians moving forward, and one of the most entertaining pitching celebrations baseball has seen all season from Mets reliever Jeffrey Yan. If you're looking for MLB playoff analysis, fantasy baseball advice, advanced pitching breakdowns, prospect analysis and postseason projections, Rates & Barrels has you covered. 00:00 - Introduction and Week Overview 03:39 - Analazing Paul Skeens' Performance 05:28 - Chris Sale's Resurgence 09:36 - Evaluating Playoff Rotations 11:27 - Team Tier Rankings Discussion 35:56 - Evaluating Pitching Rotations 40:34 - Analyzing Team Performance and Projections 54:34 - Prospect Promotions and Player Debuts Like, Subscribe and drop us a comment! First Pitch Arizona: https://www.baseballhq.com/pricing/first-pitch-arizona-2026 Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.social Follow Eno on Bluesky: @enosarris.bsky.social e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/FyBa9f3wFe Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris Contributor: Jed Lowrie Executive Producer: McEnroe Francis Editor: McEnroe Francis #dodgers #brewers #phillies #yankees Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  8. 5 Aug

    Why the Dodgers' Lineup is Struggling | MLB's Biggest Hitting Concerns

    The MLB Trade Deadline fallout continues as Tarik Skubal makes his highly anticipated debut for the Los Angeles Dodgers. DVR, Eno and Jed Lowrie break down Skubal's first start in Dodger blue, what it means for Los Angeles' loaded rotation, and whether the Chicago Cubs' recent success against the Dodgers should change expectations in the National League. The Boston Red Sox continue to surge despite injuries, and the latest updates on Garrett Crochet and Roman Anthony provide hope for one of baseball's hottest teams. Plus, the Philadelphia Phillies unveil their new defensive alignment after acquiring Luis Arraez, moving Bryce Harper back to right field while reshuffling the infield for the stretch run. DVR, Eno and Jed also take a deep dive into several contenders who's hitters are underperforming expectations. Are the Brewers becoming too dependent on unexpected offensive contributors heading toward October? Is the Dodgers' lineup showing major flaws ahead of the postseason? Will the Mariners' offensive struggles rediscover their power before October arrives. Like, Subscribe and drop us a comment! First Pitch Arizona: https://www.baseballhq.com/pricing/first-pitch-arizona-2026 Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.social Follow Eno on Bluesky: @enosarris.bsky.social e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/FyBa9f3wFe Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris Contributor: Jed Lowrie Executive Producer: McEnroe Francis Editor: McEnroe Francis 00:00 - Intro 04:00 -Tarik Skubal Debuts for the Dodgers 10:55 - Red Sox Continue Rolling Despite Injuries 14:25 - Phillies Unveil Their New Defensive Alignment 20:50 - What's Wrong with Christian Yelich? 28:15 - William Contreras & Milwaukee's Offensive Questions 34:30 - Dodgers Hitters Showing Signs of Regression? 44:50 - Should Mariners Fans Be Worried? 49:15 - Cal Raleigh, Julio Rodríguez & Josh Naylor Breakdown #dodgers #brewers #mariners #phillies Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In baseball, numbers are everywhere. But they’re not just numbers. For Derek VanRiper and Eno Sarris, they’re the keys to solving the most fun problem in sports. Every weekday, join DVR and Eno as they unpack baseball in ways you’ve never heard before, endeavoring to figure out all they can about a sport that’s constantly changing. Alongside contributors Britt Ghiroli, Trevor May and Jed Lowrie, the Rates & Barrels crew breaks down all the latest MLB news through an analytical lens, feeding your unhealthy addiction to numbers, while helping you master your fantasy baseball GM skills. But wait, there's more: come back for Saturday mornings in Starkville, where Jayson Stark and Doug Glanville talk to some of the most important players, coaches, and thought leaders in the league. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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