Flippin' Bats with Ben Verlander

Ben Verlander previews and predicts each match up in the ALCS & NLCS all the way to the World Series where Ben makes his prediction for the World Series Champ. Ben also previews the three big storylines of the 2024 MLB playoffs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes back Hall of Famer John Smoltz to discuss the postponement of the Atlanta Braves and New York Mets series, which has HUGE playoff implications. They also discuss the wild nature of the Wild Card race in both the American and National League and with emphasis on playoff seeding. They also talk about who they think will round out all of the playoff spots and also discuss the Rowdy Tellez DFA situation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander discusses everything MLB as we head into the final week of the 2024 season. The Houston Astros clinch the AL West after abysmal start to the season, the Detroit Tigers are in the playoff mix after tough stretches from the Kansas City Royals and Minnesota Twins. Ben talks about the possibility of Shohei Ohtani going for 60/60 and the Los Angeles Dodgers' hopes of holding onto the NL West lead. Ben breaks down his MLB Power Rankings and answers from fan questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes Hall of Famer John Smoltz back to the show to discuss the ongoing pitching woes facing the Los Angeles Dodgers & the rumors that Shohei Ohtani could possibly pitch this postseason. They also discuss which National League Rookie Smoltz would start a franchise with between Paul Skenes, Jackson Merrill & Jackson Chourio. Then, they talk about when guys like Luis Arraez will get the appreciation they deserve after Arraez went 170 ABs without striking out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander hops on to do an emergency podcast after the greatest single game performance gets Shohei Ohtani into the 50/50 club. Ohtani went 6 for 6 with 3 home runs, 10 RBI, 2 stolen bases and just barely missed hitting for the cycle as well. Ben recaps Ohtani's epic first season with the Dodgers, his single game performance, where the home run ball is and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander takes a deep look at the Los Angeles Dodgers after news came out that it is unlikely that Tyler Glasnow will pitch again in 2024 and where that leaves the Dodgers heading into the playoffs. Ben also talks about a rumor that Shohei Ohtani could pitching in the playoffs this year. He also answers some fan questions, discusses who he would rather start a franchise with: Jackson Merrill, Jackson Chourio or Paul Skenes & breaks down his MLB Power Rankings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander is once again joined by MLB Hall of Famer John Smoltz and they discuss what the Houston Astros should do with Justin Verlander and the playoff rotation. Smoltz gives insights into a similar situation in his career. They also talk about World Series hopefuls and who is best suited for October. Finally, Ben asks Smoltz about the story of how he almost signed with the Philadelphia Phillies & how golf memberships may have been a part of the pitch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander discusses another eventful week in Major League Baseball. This week Ben discusses Shohei Ohtani's pursuit of a 50 home run, 50 stolen base season. He also discusses what the Houston Astros' will look to do with their playoff rotation and where Justin Verlander falls in their plans. He then talks about the magical season from Atlanta Braves' Chris Sale and where not only the Braves' would be without him, but where the Boston Red Sox would be if they had kept him. Sale is on track to win his 1st Cy Young and possibly his 1st MLB Triple Crown. Ben also touches on the New York Mets & Detroit Tigers playoff hopes and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes back Hall of Famer John Smotlz to discuss the latest update from the Houston Astros on Kyle Tucker's injury, which has now been announced as a shin fracture. They also discuss who Smoltz thinks is going to claim the last NL Wildcard spot between the Atlanta Braves and New York Mets & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander talks about the news that Houston Astros' Kyle Tucker did indeed have a shin fracture. He also talks about the NL MVP race and whether or not New York Mets' Francisco Lindor can actually challenge Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani in the NL MVP Race. Ben also discusses the New York Yankees' decision to not promote Jasson Dominguez and he also takes a look into the potential MLB Playoff matchups. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander once again welcomes Hall of Fame John Smoltz to the show and they discuss which season they would take between Los Angeles Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani and New York Yankees’ Aaron Judge. Aaron Judge is on an unreal tear of late and Ben & Smoltz discuss who was the last hitter to have this peak. Finally, they discuss Alex Verdugo’s interesting allergies and what was the wildest superstition a teammate of Smoltz had. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander discusses a very eventful week in baseball. New York Yankees' Aaron Judge is having a historic offensive season, but Ben thinks Judge is the best hitter since this MLB Hall of Famer. Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani just became the 6th player ever to reach the 40/40 club and the fastest to ever do it. Does Ben think Ohtani can reach 50/50? Ben also talks about the red hot NL West race and specifically the Arizona Diamondbacks. The Diamondbacks are the hottest team in MLB since June 1st, but where are they on Ben's MLB Power Rankings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes back John Smoltz to discuss whether or not Juan Soto and Aaron Judge make the New York Yankees good enough for the postseason or will their bullpen woes haunt them? They also discuss the proposed six inning minimum rule for starting pitchers and which team put themselves into another tier post MLB trade deadline & more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander discusses whether or not the Pittsburgh Pirates' will shut down Paul Skenes with their playoff hopes dwindling. He also comments on the proposed six-inning rule for starting pitchers and how he thinks Detroit Tigers' Tarik Skubal might just win the AL Cy Young. Ben also updates his weekly MLB Power Rankings and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes back Hall of Famer John Smoltz to Flippin' Bats. They discuss the red hot NL West Race where the San Diego Padres and Arizona Diamondbacks are just 3 games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers. Ben and John also talk about the National League Rookie of the Year race that has heated up after San Diego Padres' Jackson Merrill had a RED HOT last two weeks. Then, Ben and John talked about The haunted Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee where Smoltz will be this weekend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander discusses the National League Rookie of the Year Race between Pittsburgh Pirates' Paul Skenes and San Diego Padres' Jackson Merrill after Merrill's monster week. Ben also looks at the NL West as the Arizona Diamondbacks and San Diego Padres have cut into the Los Angeles Dodgers' division lead. Ben updates his weekly MLB Power Rankings & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes back John Smoltz to discuss the Atlanta Braves' struggles during the 2nd half and if it's time to worry about the playoffs. Ben and Smoltz also talk about the NL MVP Race with Ketel Marte's hot streak and whether or not Shohei Ohtani not playing defense will hurt him in voting & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander gets you caught up on all the latest MLB news including the 1st home run for Baltimore Orioles' Jackson Holliday, the Chicago White Sox losing 20 straight games and the no-hitter by San Francisco Giants' Blake Snell. Ben also discusses one of the wildest AL MVP races between New York Yankees' Aaron Judge & Juan Soto, Baltimore Orioles' Gunnar Henderson and Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt. Jr. All four players are projected for 10+ fWAR seasons and from 2005 to 2023 there were only four TOTAL fWAR seasons. Ben also talks about Shohei Ohtani running away with the NL MVP after just reaching 30 HR and 30 SB. Ben also updates his weekly MLB Power Rankings & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes back John Smoltz to recap the MLB Trade Deadline. Smoltz gives his pick for the winner & loser of the MLB Trade Deadline as well as what he thinks was and will be the most impactful trade. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander breaks down the electric MLB Trade Deadline and gives his Top 3 Winners & Losers. The Los Angeles Dodgers make the list for getting players to fill some of their holes & the Detroit Tigers find themselves on the list for all the wrong reasons. Who are your winners and losers? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander recaps the big weekend series between the Houston Astros & the Los Angeles Dodgers. He also breaks down his Top 3 trades so far heading into the trade deadline including Jazz Chisholm Jr to the New York Yankees. Ben also outlines three team he feels need to moves and he updates his weekly MLB Power Rankings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes back Hall of Famer John Smoltz to discuss the Hall of Fame weekend, whether or not the Chicago Cubs should be sellers at the deadline and whether or not the Detroit Tigers should trade Tarik Skubal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander updates his weekly MLB Power Rankings with a new team cracking the Top 10. Ben discusses the RED HOT Houston Astros a top the AL West, while the Seattle Mariners continue to slide with their abysmal offense. Ben also talks about what both teams need to do at the trade deadline. Ben gives his opinion on why the Detroit Tigers need to keep & extend Tarik Skubal after rumors of teams looking to trade for the Tigers' ace & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander recaps his trip to MLB All-Star Week in Dallas, Texas. Ben talks about the infamous National Anthem, the wild home run derby, Paul Skenes' outing, Shohei Ohtani's home run and more. Ben also welcomes in Hall of Famer John Smoltz to discuss his takeaways from the All-Star Game, what he saw from Paul Skenes, his one bold prediction for the second half and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander discusses his Top 3 things to watch for at this year's MLB All-Star Game including how many stolen bases Elly De La Cruz will get, will Shohei Ohtani hit a home run and more. Ben also discusses some of the most surprising storylines from the first half including Atlanta Braves' Reynaldo López, the Texas Rangers & more. Finally, Ben gives his final MLB Power Rankings of the 1st half. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes back MLB Hall of Famer John Smoltz back to the show. Ben and John discuss the Atlanta Braves' troubles after losing Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider for the year. They also discuss whether or not the MLB needs to change the All-Star game voting process and Smoltz gives his favorite All-Star Game memory. Smoltz also discusses Nolan Ryan and what it was like watching him pitch and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander brings you everything MLB All-Star Game related after the American League & National League rosters were announced and he gives his Top 3 snubs and surprises. Ben also breaks down the big New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox series this past weekend where the Red Sox continue to stay hot and the Yankees continue to struggle. Ben talks about Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani becoming the first player this season to reach 20 home runs and 20 stolen bases. Ohtani had 20 stolen bases all last year and Ohtani is just one home run away from 200 career home runs. Ben also updates his weekly MLB Power Rankings & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes back Atlanta Braves legend & MLB Hall of Famer John Smoltz to Flippin' Bats. Ben and John discuss a loaded AL MVP race and who is currently in the lead. They also discuss whether or not Pittsburgh Pirates' Paul Skenes should be an MLB All-Star and what the Chicago Cubs & Toronto Blue Jays should do at the trade deadline after lackluster starts to the season. Smoltz also gives his favorite Willie Mays story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander discusses the new MLB Home Run Derby rules for 2024, Bobby Bonilla day and what the Chicago Cubs need to do at the trade deadline. Ben also updates his weekly MLB Power Rankings, talks about Shohei Ohtani's incredible two week stretch, and whether or not the Houston Astros are officially back. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander gives you his updated MLB Power Rankings with the Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Yankees battling it out for the top spot. Ben also gives his Top 3 most surprising & disappointing teams with the Kansas City Royals, New York Yankees and Houston Astros making those lists. Ben answers some fan questions & more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes Baltimore Orioles legend and MLB Hall of Famer Cal Ripken Jr. back to the show. Ben and Cal talk about Gunnar Henderson and his ceiling as well as how last year's postseason birth will help the Orioles this season. They also discuss the Orioles' new ownership, how wild it is that Los Angeles Dodgers' Mookie Betts is playing shortstop, what Cal saw in Jackson Holliday's debut & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes Atlanta Braves' legend John Smoltz back to Flippin' Bats for another edition of 'Saturdays with John Smoltz'. Ben and Smoltz discuss if the combo of Juan Soto and Aaron Judge is the best 1-2 punch of all-time, share some early thoughts on the upcoming trade deadline and Smoltz shares his favorite David Justice stories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry bring you everything you need to know about Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani in 'This Week In Shohei Ohtani News' including the Dodgers' recent struggles of late. Ben and Alex also discuss who the Cleveland Guardians should target at the trade deadline. They also revisit whether or not Yoshinobu Yamamoto's contract has been worth the money & whether or not it's time to worry about the Houston Astros after they lost two more starting pitchers to Tommy John surgery. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes 2x World Series winner and 3x All-Star David Justice to show. Ben and Justice discuss his years spent with the New York Yankees and Atlanta Braves, what it was like playing during the peak of the Steroid Era, and what the biggest change in baseball has been since the 90s. Justice also shares some of his favorite John Smoltz and Bobby Cox stories and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry discuss New York Yankees Aaron Judge's pace to be the fastest player to 300 home runs and how teams need to make more moves before the All-Star break. Ben updates his weekly MLB Power Rankings and he gives his 'Team of the Month'. They also discuss the Detroit Tigers optioning Spencer Torkelson to AAA & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes Atlanta Braves' legend John Smoltz back to Flippin' Bats for another edition of 'Saturdays with John Smoltz'. Ben and Smoltz discuss what the Atlanta Braves’ next step without MVP Ronald Acuña Jr., if Juan Soto is going to stay a New York Yankee long term and why Bryce Harper fits with the Philadelphia Phillies so well. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry bring you everything you need to know about the Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani in 'This Week In Shohei Ohtani News' including Ohtani nursing a hamstring injury. Ben and Alex also discuss where the Atlanta Braves go after losing Ronald Acuña Jr., the Negro Leagues finally having players in the MLB record books, Ángel Hernández retiring, and Jorge López’s unfortunate afternoon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes the Baltimore Orioles young superstar Gunnar Henderson to the show. Ben and Henderson discuss the Orioles hot start to the season and the impact that bringing in veterans such as Corbin Burnes and Craig Kimbrel has had on the team. The pair then break down the Orioles’ new ownership and the energy they’ve brought to the team and Henderson explains what the postseason experience was like last season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry discuss the injury to Atlanta Braves superstar Ronald Acuña Jr., Juan Soto’s upcoming free agency and if he’ll stay with the New York Yankees or not, the Philadelphia Phillies being on pace for the best season in franchise history and if the Kansas City Royals’ young superstar Bobby Witt Jr. is the most underrated player in MLB. Ben then updates his weekly MLB Power Rankings & Team of the Week and Alex has a special birthday surprise. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes Atlanta Braves' legend John Smoltz back to Flippin' Bats for another edition of 'Saturdays with John Smoltz'. Ben and Smoltz debate whether Shohei Ohtani can win MVP as a DH for the Los Angeles Dodgers or if the Cincinnati Reds’ Elly De La Cruz can steal his way there. They then discuss what the best offseason trade was and which division races are already look like they will come down to the wire. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry bring you everything you need to know about the Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani in 'This Week In Shohei Ohtani News,' including Ohtani’s first walk-off hit in Dodgers blue. Ben and Alex also revisit and give a confidence rating for all of their AL and NL preseason awards as well as their World Series picks. Ben and Alex also provide an update on the 2026 World Baseball Classic, break down Bryce Harper’s promposal assist & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes 2023 Arizona Diamondbacks All-Star starting pitcher Zac Gallen to the show. Ben and Gallen discuss Arizona’s run to the World Series last season, sweeping the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLDS and what game planning in the Fall Classic is like. The pair then discuss if Zac is the biggest sneakerhead in MLB and he shares some stories about hosting Jack Flaherty during his time at the University of North Carolina. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes Boston Red Sox’s Kenley Jansen to Flippin’ Bats and they discuss transitioning from a catcher to a closer, signing out of Curaçao, and his Los Angeles Dodgers’ days. He also talks about the importance of Atlanta Braves legend Andruw Jones, how Curaçao produces so many MLB players, the Red Sox stellar rotation & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry discuss who is the top team in the American League between the Baltimore Orioles & New York Yankees. The AL MVP race heats up with New York Yankees' Juan Soto, Aaron Judge, Baltimore Orioles' Gunnar Henderson & Houston Astros' Kyle Tucker continue to battle it out a third of the way through the season. Ben answers the question whether or not Pittsburgh Pirates' Paul Skenes is a top 10 pitcher in MLB after his last stellar start & Ben also updates his weekly MLB Power Rankings & Team of the Week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes Atlanta Braves' legend John Smoltz back to Flippin' Bats for another edition of 'Saturdays with John Smoltz'. Ben and Smoltz break down Paul Skenes’ electric first MLB start for the Pittsburgh Pirates and discuss if the San Diego Padres turned themselves into contenders by trading for Luis Arráez. Finally, the pair debate if the Los Angeles Dodgers’ 1-2 punch of Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts is better than Aaron Judge and Juan Soto of the New York Yankees. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry bring you everything you need to know about Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani in 'This Week In Shohei Ohtani News'. Ohtani became the first player in MLB with double digit steals and home runs. Ben also talks about the state of MLB City Connects after the Los Angeles Dodgers' second city connect was leaked. Ben also discusses Houston Astros' Ronel Blanco being ejected and suspended for sticky substances & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes back Seattle Mariners' Ty France back to Flippin' Bats. They discuss the unbelievable run that the Mariners' rotation has been on, his first all-star game & his favorite Tony Gwynn story. Ty also gives his answer on whether San Diego or Los Angeles has the better Mexican food & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry discuss whether or not the Philadelphia Phillies are the favorites to win the NL East, the Baltimore Orioles' new owner, & Justin Verlander's big start for the Houston Astros in Detroit. They also discuss whether or not the Pittsburgh Pirates are a playoff team after Paul Skenes' magical debut. Ben updates his weekly MLB Power Rankings & his 'Team of the Week' which is led by Philadelphia Phillies' Bryce Harper. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes Atlanta Braves' legend John Smoltz back to Flippin' Bats for another edition of 'Saturdays with John Smoltz'. Ben and Smoltz break down the Seattle Mariners’ stellar starting pitching and their World Series potential. They also discuss if this is the golden era of shortstops in MLB and Smoltz shares his favorite Adam Wainwright stories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry discuss whether or not that New York Yankees own the Houston Astros after the last five years, trouble in Cincinnati & Willson Contreras' broken arm. Ben also discusses what it would take from Shohei Ohtani to win the MVP at DH in 'This Week in Shohei Ohtani News, the Pittsburgh Pirates calling up MLB's No. 3 prospect Paul Skenes & more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes FOX MLB analyst and St. Louis Cardinals' legend Adam Wainwright to Flippin' Bats. They discuss Wainwright getting drafted by the Atlanta Braves and getting traded to the St. Louis Cardinals. They also talk about Wainwright getting pushed into the closer role as a rookie & closing out the 2006 World Series. Ben and Adam talk about his music career, his new role as Fox MLB game analyst & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry discuss the BIG trade from the weekend with the San Diego Padres landing Luis Arráez from the Miami Marlins and whether or not this makes the Padres a playoff team. Ben updates his weekly MLB Power Rankings with the Los Angeles Dodgers taking over the top spot after a sweep of the Atlanta Braves. Ben gives his 'Team of the Month' which is led by Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani & Mookie Betts. Alex and Ben discuss whether or not we are in the Golden Era of shortstops, Ben gives his current Top 5 shortstops of 2024 & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes Atlanta Braves' legend John Smoltz back to Flippin' Bats for another edition of 'Saturdays with John Smoltz'. Ben and Smoltz discuss Jackson Holliday getting sent down to Triple-A and how the Baltimore Orioles should handle him going forward. The pair also break down the early season struggles of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and the Toronto Blue Jays and how the Cleveland Guardians have got off to such a hot start. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry discuss the dominance of Chicago Cubs' Shōta Imanaga and whether or not he was the best pitcher free agent signing. They also talk about Cincinnati Reds' Elly De La Cruz's hot start, Arizona Diamondbacks' Corbin Carroll's sophomore slump & Mike Trout's knee injury. They bring you a new edition of 'This Week In Shohei Ohtani News' & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes 2013 NLCS MVP Michael Wacha to the show to discuss his red hot Kansas City Royals team, Bobby Witt Jr., & the Royals stellar pitching staff. Wacha also discusses his St. Louis Cardinals' days, losing a no-hitter, getting called up the big leagues and pitching in the playoffs a year removed from college, coming up & learning from Yadier Molina, Adam Wainwright, & more. He also discusses being able to find his old form after some injuries with the Tampa Bay Rays & who is in his Top-5 pitchers of all-time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry discuss the latest in MLB news including New York Mets' Pete Alonso joining the 200 home run club. Ben breaks down whether he thinks Alonso will join the 500 home run club & whether or not New York Yankees' Aaron Judge is full healthy after his slow start to the season. Ben also takes a look at the Seattle Mariners' turnaround with their pitching staff finally hitting their stride & whether or not George Kirby will finish the season with more games started than walks this season. Verlander updates his weekly MLB Power Rankings & 'Team of the Week' & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes Atlanta Braves' legend John Smoltz back to Flippin' Bats for another edition of 'Saturdays with John Smoltz'. Ben and Smoltz discuss the Houston Astros and Los Angeles Dodgers’ less than spectacular early seasons and whether or not the Pittsburgh Pirates’ top prospect Paul Skenes should be called up to the Majors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry bring you the latest MLB news including Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani breaking Hideki Matsui's record for most home runs by a Japanese born player in MLB history. They also discuss the Houston Astros' historic bad start and whether or not they could make the postseason. Ben answers whether or not he thinks the Chicago White Sox could break the record for most losses in a single-season. Ben & Alex also discuss whether not it's time for the Toronto Blue Jays to start worrying about Vladimir Guerrero Jr & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes 2023 Los Angeles Dodgers All-Star catcher Will Smith to Flippin’ Bats. Ben and Smith discuss the Dodgers’ massive offseason, if Smith has started game-planning pitching with Shohei Ohtani, and his upcoming Netflix is a Joke event in support of his Catching Hope foundation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry bring you the latest MLB news including Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani breaking Hideki Matsui's record for most home runs by a Japanese born player. Ben also talks about the Baltimore Orioles' fountain saga where Colton Cowser accidentally threw Craig Kimbrel's 422nd save ball, tying Billy Wagner for 7th all-time, into the fountains at Kauffman Stadium. Ben also breaks down why Pittsburgh Pirates' Paul Skenes should still be in AAA. Verlander also updates his weekly MLB Power Rankings & 'Team of the Week'. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes Atlanta Braves' legend John Smoltz back to Flippin' Bats for another edition of 'Saturdays with John Smoltz.’ Ben and Smoltz discuss the Atlanta Braves’ World Series chances without their ace Spencer Strider, how MLB can help prevent arm injuries around the league and what’s currently the best rivalry in MLB. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry bring you everything you need to know regarding Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani in 'This Week In Shohei Ohtani News' where they discuss tying Hideki Matsui for most home runs by a Japanese born player & his offensive numbers being better in 2024 than they were in 2023. Ben gives you his Top 3 most concerning teams through the first month of the season including the Seattle Mariners & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry discuss is the Houston Astros and Texas Rangers' rivalry is currently the best in baseball, whether or not Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. is the best shortstop in baseball and whether or not the NL Central is the best division in baseball. Ben also gives his updated MLB Power Rankings with a new team at the top & his updated 'Team of the Week'. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes back Atlanta Braves' legend John Smoltz back to Flippin' Bats for another edition of 'Saturdays with John Smoltz'. Ben and Smoltz discuss the cause of all the pitching injuries and his best stories from his almost no-hitters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry break down all the latest news after the DOJ announced charges for Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani's former interpreter. Baltimore Orioles' finally debuted Jackson Holliday and Ben gives his Top 5 most anticipated MLB debuts since 2000. Ben also talks about Los Angeles Dodgers' Tyler Glasnow becoming the front runner for the NL Cy Young & much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes Seattle Mariners' Bryce Miller to Flippin' Bats. They discuss his near perfect MLB debut, his new splitter he developed this offseason and the craziest thing he's ever seen Julio Rodríguez do. Miller also talks about his Texas A&M Aggies, facing his childhood friend & Baltimore Orioles' Jordan Westburg and his thoughts on the rash of pitching injuries. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry discuss Spencer Striders' UCL injury and what that means for the Atlanta Braves' division title hopes. Ben gives you his updated MLB Power Rankings, Team of the Week and talks about the breakout of Cincinnati Reds' Spencer Steer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes Atlanta Braves legend John Smoltz back fro another edition of 'Saturdays with Smoltz' where they discuss the New York Yankees sweep of the Houston Astros, the Oakland A's situation and the tough slide from Milwaukee Brewers' Rhys Hoskins against New York Mets' Jeff McNeil. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry bring you everything Shohei Ohtani related in 'This Week In Shohei Ohtani News' including his first first Los Angeles Dodgers' home run. Ben and Alex shout out Houston Astros' Ronel Blanco's no-hitter and Milwaukee Brewers' Jackson Chourio's hot start in 'Flippin' Shout Outs'. Ben talks about whether the Houston Astros' have a bullpen problem, whether or not the Texas Rangers' playoff hopes are crushed due to the Josh Jung injury and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry talk about the Milwaukee Brewers & New York Mets benches clearing after Rhys Hoskins' slide into Jeff McNeil. In 'Overreaction Monday' they also talk about whether Justin Steele's injury ruins the Chicago Cubs season, if the Baltimore Orioles are the top dog in the American League over the Houston Astros & if the New York Yankees are World Series contenders with Juan Soto. Ben brings you his Week 1 MLB Power Rankings and his Team of the Week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Atlanta Braves legend John Smoltz is back on Flippin' Bats for the first 'Saturdays with John Smoltz' for the 2024 season. Ben and Smoltz discuss whether or not the New York Yankees did enough this offseason to be a playoff team, if the Baltimore Orioles are the team to beat in the American League and which team is this year's Arizona Diamondbacks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry bring you all of their predictions for the 2024 MLB season including MVP, Cy Young, Rookie of the Year & their World Series champions. Who will be taking home hardware this season? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry break down everything in the Flippin' Bats 2024 National League Preview. They go through each division and pick out their winners and wild card winners. Who is the team to beat in the NL: the Los Angeles Dodgers or the Atlanta Braves? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry break down everything in the Flippin' Bats 2024 American League Preview. They go through each division and pick out their winners and wild card winners. Are the Houston Astros the team to beat or is it now the Baltimore Orioles' time? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emmy award winning actor Bryan Cranston joins Ben Verlander on Flippin' Bats to discuss his love for baseball and his recent work with MLB for their Opening Day campaign. Cranston talks about what Vin Scully meant to him, where he was for Kirk Gibson's famous walk-off home run in the 1988 World Series & so much more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander & Alex Curry discuss the recent news that Shohei Ohtani's translator, Ippei Mizuhara, has been fired by the Los Angeles Dodgers after an allegation of 'massive theft' due to questions surrounding at least $4.5 million in wire transfers sent from Ohtani's bank account to a bookmaking operation set off a series of events. They also recap the Seoul Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers & San Diego Padres. Ben gives his 'Week 0' MLB Power Rankings with some familiar faces at the top. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Atlanta Braves' Michael Harris II joins Flippin' Bats to discuss his baseball journey with Ben Verlander. He talks about getting drafted by his hometown Atlanta Braves, Ronald Acuña Jr., turning it around in 2023 & so much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry discuss MLB's Seoul Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers & San Diego Padres to kick off the season. They also discuss the Padres landing Dylan Cease from the White Sox and Shohei Ohtani revealing his wife on social media. Blake Snell finally finds a home with the San Francisco Giants, Ben gives his 5 breakout pitchers for 2024 and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Minnesota Twins’ Pablo López joins Ben Verlander on Flippin’ Bats and they discuss getting traded from the Miami Marlins to the Minnesota Twins’. They also talk about the World Baseball Classic, what he learned from his 1st MLB All-Star Game and what going to Driveline is like. López also dishes on Twins’ young studs Royce Lewis, Edouard Julien and he also talks about how he would grow the game internationally. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes Houston Astros' Kyle Tucker to Flippin' Bats. Verlander & Tucker discuss Jose Altuve's contract extension, his own contract extension talks and new Houston Astro Josh Hader. They also discuss Tucker just missing out on a 30/30 season last year, the wild 2023 ALCS vs the Texas Rangers and much more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry discuss the New York Yankees recent injury news regarding ace Gerrit Cole and superstar Aaron Judge. Cole is getting an MRI on his right elbow and Judge is banged up, but Ben thinks now is the time more than ever for the Yankees to get Blake Snell. Ben gives his 5 breakout players to look out for in 2024 including Baltimore Orioles' Jackson Holliday and Texas Rangers Evan Carter. Ben and Alex discuss MLB's Spring Breakout and Ben's Top 3 games to watch. There's another edition of 'Name That Swing' and so much more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jonathan India to the show. India talks about his new deal to stay with the Reds, dealing with trade speculation and how good he thinks the Reds will be this season. They also discuss his draft day story, getting called up to the big leagues & much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes former Cincinnati Reds star and MVP Joey Votto to the show to discuss his ongoing free agency and to provide some updates on how he can fit in on a 2024 MLB roster. Votto explains the impact playing in Cincinnati for 17 years had on his professional and personal life, how good the Reds can be this year, the ways he’d like to see MLB continue to expand internationally and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry discuss the big Los Angeles Dodgers' news with Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto making their Spring Training debuts as well as Ohtani's surprise marriage announcement. They also talk about two big contracts that were handed out by the Philadelphia Phillies & San Francisco Giants to lock up Zack Wheeler and Matt Chapman. Ben hands out his Top 5 teams to hit the under on their 2024 win totals and another edition of 'Name That Swing'. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes Cole Ragans to the show to discuss his journey from being traded by the Texas Rangers to becoming the Kansas City Royals’ ace. Cole shares the story of his long journey in the Minor Leagues after being a first-round pick and how be built himself into a top pitcher. He also breaks down all of Kansas City’s moves this offseason, Bobby Witt Jr.’s ceiling and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry discuss the big news of the Chicago Cubs signing Cody Bellinger to a $80M/3 year deal. Does this move make the Cubs the NL Central favorites? Ben gives his Top 5 teams to hit the over on their win total for 2024 with the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees & Cincinnati Reds making the list & so much more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes Dylan Cease of the Chicago White Sox to the show to discuss all the trade speculation surrounding him this offseason and what he wants to see from himself and the White Sox in 2024. Dylan shares his thoughts after a year of the pitch clock and offers some broader changes he’d like to see around MLB. He also breaks down what it’s like experiencing a Major League brawl, dives deep on his love for disc golf and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry discuss the latest MLB news, starting with some free agent signings and Rob Manfred's announcement that he will be stepping down as MLB commissioner in 2029. They debate the merits of Manfred's suggestion to implement a free agency deadline and if it would be good or bad for baseball. Then, Ben and Alex cover Kyle Bradish's sprained UCL injury and how it will affect the Baltimore Orioles' rotation. Next, they react to Monday's comments from Angels players Mike Trout and Anthony Rendon. Finally, they close the show with a new round of 'Name That Swing'. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes Teoscar Hernandez to the show to discuss his free agency, signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers and being teammates with Shohei Ohtani. He also discusses when he almost gave up baseball before he signed with the Houston Astros in 2011. He talks about his relationship with Vladimir Guerrero Jr and Julio Rodríguez. He also tells Ben who the toughest pitcher he's faced and so much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry discuss José Altuve's new $125M/5 year extension to make him a Houston Astro for life. They talk about the Boston Red Sox taking part in a new 'Hard Knocks' style docuseries for Netflix that will follow them around for the 2024. Ben gives his Top 5 Trios for 2024. Will the Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts take the top spot over the Atlanta Braves' Austin Riley, Ronald Acuña Jr. and Matt Olson? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry discuss Bobby Witt Jr's massive contract extension with the Kansas City Royals where he could end up having the 3rd largest contract in MLB history. They also discuss the Los Angeles Dodgers' fan fest where Mookie Betts made a bold statement & Shohei Ohtani talked about his rehab. They also talk about the Baltimore Orioles' blockbuster trade for Corbin Burnes & their sale to David Rubenstein's group for $1.725 billion. Ben finishes his countdown to his top player for the 2024 season & much more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes Detroit Tigers' Jack Flaherty into the studio! They talk about his years with the St. Louis Cardinals, being traded to the Baltimore Orioles and now being viewed as a veteran on the Tigers. They also talk about him becoming a pitcher late in high school, being committed to North Carolina to be a Tar Heel and how he met Zac Gallen. Finally, they talk about what Los Angeles Lakers' legend Kobe Bryant meant to him, what Chicago Cubs' fans can expect from Pete Crow-Armstrong & more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry discuss the recent moves by the Chicago Cubs and Arizona Diamondbacks. Ben gives his thoughts on why the free agency is moving so slowly. Ben continues his countdown of the Top 50 Players for 2024 and the introduction of a new game called 'Name That Swing'. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander is joined by Toronto Blue Jays great José Bautista and they discuss his ownership of Las Vegas Lights FC, USL Championship soccer team. They also discuss his legendary bat flip against the Rangers, the Blue Jays shortcomings last season and their quiet offseason. They talk about when he followed almost everyone on Twitter and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry preview the 2024 MLB Hall of Fame ballot including the top first-year candidates including Adrián Beltré & Joe Mauer, a look back at the voting results from 2023 and Ben goes through who he would vote for if he had a ballot. Ben continues down his list of the Top 50 players for 2024 with numbers 15-11. Ben and Alex break down the big news of Josh Hader signing with the Houston Astros and they also draft their Top 3 favorite baseball movies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry react to the 2024 MLB schedule before breaking down the latest free agent signings, including Shōta Imanaga to the Chicago Cubs and Marcus Stroman to the New York Yankees. Ben continues his countdown to the top MLB player in 2024 by revealing numbers 20-16 & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander welcomes back 4-time gold glover Adam Jones to the show. They discuss the Los Angeles Dodgers' wild offseason including Jones' former teammate Yoshinobu Yamamoto. They also discuss what went wrong for Jones' hometown San Diego Padres last season and what he thinks the Baltimore Orioles should do this offseason. With MLB Hall of Fame voting just around the corner, Ben & Adam talk about whether this is the year that Andruw Jones finally makes it in and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Verlander and Alex Curry break down the latest Los Angeles Dodgers' addition in Teoscar Hernández and how he fits into their lineup. Ben goes in depth in analyzing Dodgers' new pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto in how he will transition to MLB and his what makes him so good. Ben continues his countdown to the top MLB player in 2024 by revealing numbers 25-21 & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Smoltz joins Ben Verlander to discuss MLB's wild offseason so far. They discuss the whirlwind of moves by the Los Angeles Dodgers including signing Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto & trading for Tyler Glasnow. Smoltz also discusses the moves by the Atlanta Braves including the most recent trade for Chris Sale. They talk about the New York Yankees and if the Juan Soto trade will be enough to keep up in the American League & more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices