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Talking About Birds: A St. Louis Cardinals Podcast

Talking About Birds: A St. Louis Cardinals Podcast

220 episodes — Page 1 of 5

What Even is a Horse

May 14, 20261h 26m

The Cardinals are Offensive

May 7, 20261h 28m

Double Jay Double You

Apr 30, 20261h 32m

Masyn Winn is Turning It(us) On

Apr 23, 20261h 33m

Jordan Walker is the Best Player in Baseball Forever Guaranteed

Apr 16, 20261h 20m

Jordan Walker is My Son and My Dad

Apr 9, 20261h 26m

Ep 214Jumping Jehoshaphat Wetherholt

The Cardinals are off to a hot 4-2 start 🔥 as early storylines take shape. We break down extension buzz around JJ Wetherholt, roster moves, and what we’re seeing from a revamped Jordan Walker—big exit velos, better launch angles, and real signs of a breakout. Plus Burleson staying hot, Gorman/Urías flashing power, McGreevy has a strong start, and debuts from Ryan Stanek and Dustin May. We preview upcoming series vs Detroit and Washington, then hit league news with a wave of extensions and Jason Heyward calling it a career. Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Apr 2, 20261h 24m

Ep 213(We Hope) The Kids Are All Right - Opening Day 2026! (w/ Daniel Shoptaw)

Opening Day is HERE 🔥 and we’re joined by Daniel Shoptaw (@C70) to break it all down. JJ Wetherholt makes the club, Matthew Liberatore gets the Opening Day start, and the roster is officially set. We dive into surprises like Nathan Church stepping in, Fermin and Saggese cracking the roster, and Nelson Velázquez getting left off, plus bullpen decisions and key IL moves for Lars Nootbaar and Hunter Dobbins. We preview the opening series vs the Rays and Mets, then hit league news including Pete Crow-Armstrong and Cristopher Sánchez getting PAID. Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Mar 26, 20261h 33m

Ep 212You Don't Raise Heroes, You Raise Nelsons

We break down a scorching start from Nelson Velázquez and whether it actually matters, plus the latest on Lars Nootbaar’s status as Opening Day looms. We dive into standout Spring Breakout names, Jordan Walker questions, and a loaded camp featuring JJ Wetherholt and the next wave. On the mound, Dustin May flashes triple digits, Andre Pallante tweaks his pitch mix, and George Soriano quietly dominates. We wrap with NL Central preview talk (Cubs) and Team USA falling short in the WBC final.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Mar 19, 20261h 33m

Ep 211Got More Stupider 2026

We went to Florida for Cardinals spring training and brought back plenty to talk about. We break down the messy outfield situation, Lars Nootbaar’s uncertain Opening Day status, Josh Baez’s monster spring (and potential for the big league club), and strong performances from Matthew Liberatore, Packy Naughton, and JJ Wetherholt. Then we continue our NL Central preview series with the Pirates and wrap with league news, including Team USA’s WBC outlook, Jesús Luzardo’s extension with the Phillies, and Hunter Greene’s upcoming elbow procedure.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Mar 12, 20261h 41m

Ep 210Get More Stupider 2026

We break down early impressions of the ABS system, Oli Marmol’s contract extension, and key Cardinals injury updates before diving into spring training standouts like JJ’s hot start and some live arms flashing big velocity. Then it’s NL Central preview season with the Brewers and a spin around league news, including a major PED suspension, big-name pitching deals, and WBC matchups.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Mar 5, 20261h 35m

Ep 209After Dark, Prospects! (w/ Kyle Reis)

Kyle Reis of The Cardinal Nation joins the show for a deep dive into the Cardinals’ farm system and what’s coming soon to St. Louis. We talk realistic MLB roles for Nathan Church (praise be), Victor Scott II, Fermin, and JJ, and whether Blaze Jordan is truly a big-league player. Plus: Deniel Ortiz hype, prospect ranking disagreements, why Chase Davis and Yairo Padilla might be flying under the radar, we start our NL Central previews with a deep dive on the Reds, and the latest league news.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Feb 26, 20261h 42m

Ep 208Graph Fans (w/ Ben Clemens)

Ben Clemens of FanGraphs joins the show to break down where the 2026 St. Louis Cardinals are headed, from win expectations and outfield needs to Chaim Bloom’s “down to the studs” rebuild and the strategy behind recent trades and draft-pick flexibility. We dive into the upside-heavy approach highlighted by Jurrangelo Cijntje and other recent additions, react to FanGraphs’ updated Cardinals prospect rankings, see a sneak preview of a new feature on Fangraphs, and wrap with a quick spin around the latest league news.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Feb 19, 20261h 36m

Ep 207Swing Thots

Pitchers and catchers are officially in camp, and we’re breaking down the early storylines — including Jurrangelo Cijntje throwing from both sides, a bullpen swap that brings George Soriano to St. Louis, and Bryan Ramos joining the infield mix. We also dive into Victor Scott II’s revamped swing, the possibility of a six-man rotation, a fresh Top 53 prospects list from FanGraphs, and a look at the Cardinals’ massive new spring training complex. Plus, league news featuring Corbin Carroll’s surgery and the state of the free agent market. Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Feb 12, 20261h 25m

Ep 206Amphibious Pitcher

The Cardinals get it done, trading Brendan Donovan in a blockbuster that brings switch-pitcher Jurrangelo Cijntje, outfielders Tai Peete and Colton Ledbetter, plus extra draft capital to St. Louis. We break down what the deal means for the Opening Day lineup, discuss Bloom’s search for an outfield bat, Miguel Andujar landing in San Diego, and the Cardinals moving to an MLB-run broadcast model in 2026, along with rumors, World Series talk, and the latest league news.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Feb 5, 20261h 25m

Ep 205Picture Pages (w/ Dan Szymborski)

ZiPS creator Dan Szymborski joins us to break down the Cardinals projections, biggest surprises, cats, funny voices, and what the data says about the rebuild. We discuss Jordan Walker, JJ Wetherholt, McGreevy, and the catcher logjam, plus one bold ZiPS miss to watch for 2026, along with rumors, World Series notes, and league news.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Jan 29, 20261h 46m

Ep 204More Molinas, More (Catchers Not Being) Problems

We react to Nolan Arenado’s candid comments on his exit from St. Louis and what they reveal about the Cardinals’ reset, plus Yadier Molina’s return to the organization in a key developmental role. We also dive into the farm system with Josh Baez’s rising stock and a closer look at Deniel Ortiz. In rumor season, we break down reported Cardinals interest in Griffin Canning, Miguel Andújar, and Austin Hays, then wrap with a busy league news roundup including massive deals for Kyle Tucker and Cody Bellinger, a Luis Robert Jr. blockbuster, Realmuto reuniting with Philly, and an injury update on Ha-Seong Kim.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Jan 22, 20261h 25m

Ep 203Nevertheless, Our Nolans Are Less

The Cardinals officially close the book on the Nolan Arenado era, trading the longtime third baseman and cash to the Diamondbacks (Butts'n'cracks) and ushering in a new phase for the franchise. We break down what Arenado meant to St. Louis, what the Cardinals are paying to move on, and what they’re getting back in hard-throwing right-hander Jack Martinez. Plus, we hit the rest of a busy offseason with new bullpen additions, growing trade buzz around Brendan Donovan, and a rapid-fire look at major league moves around baseball.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Jan 15, 20261h 29m

Ep 202JJ Wetherholt, Cardinal Jesus

The Cardinals make yet another bullpen pitching move, but the spotlight stays firmly on JJ Wetherholt as league executives anoint him the early NL Rookie of the Year favorite and the organization’s most important position player since Yadier Molina. We debate whether St. Louis needs a veteran bat to support the youth movement, break down major upgrades coming to spring training facilities in Jupiter, and dive into the growing uncertainty around the Cardinals’ TV future as FanDuel’s financial troubles loom. Plus, jersey-buying dilemmas, Joe Kelly’s retirement, and a round of league news as the offseason keeps delivering.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Jan 8, 20261h 30m

Ep 201What Actually is a Rumor Mill

The Brendan Donovan trade saga takes center stage as the Cardinals slow-play their best asset, hoping to turn patience into a real prospect haul while the market shifts around them. We break down why Contreras moved first, how Arizona’s Ketel Marte situation could reshape Donovan’s value, and where teams like the Mariners, Giants, and Red Sox fit in. Plus, the Arenado market remains frozen as St. Louis waits on bigger dominoes to fall, the offseason clock keeps ticking toward Spring Training, and league news includes Anthony Rendon’s Angels exit, a long-term deal in Oakland, and Team USA loading up for the WBC.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Jan 1, 20261h 36m

Ep 200200 Losses

In this historic, recorded live and in person, 200th episode, we discuss how the Cardinals make another major offseason move, sending Willson Contreras to Boston in a cash-assisted deal headlined by right-hander Hunter Dobbins. We break down what St. Louis is getting in Dobbins — his injury, stuff, and fit under Chaim Bloom — plus minor league depth additions and the team’s search for a right-handed outfield bat. Around the league, O’Hearn lands in Pittsburgh, Murakami heads to Chicago, and we check in on the World Series as the hot stove keeps moving.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Dec 25, 20251h 14m

Ep 199May He Be Good

The Cardinals make a big pitching bet, signing Dustin May and betting on a reshaped arsenal after one of the strangest injury arcs in recent MLB history. We break down what’s changed in his stuff, velocity, and pitch mix — and what it means for 2026. Plus, trade chatter is heating up around Brendan Donovan, JoJo Romero, and Willson Contreras as the offseason market takes shape, while Arenado’s situation remains a waiting game. And around the league: Polanco, Kelly, García, Kim, and more find new homes as the World Series conversation rolls on.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Dec 18, 20251h 23m

Ep 198Don't Play the Lottery

We’re talking Cardinals news as St. Louis grabs Zak Kent off waivers, weighs growing trade interest in Brendan Donovan, drops in the 2026 draft lottery, and continues exploring a 2026 role for Yadi. Then we dive into Jordan Walker’s big Driveline overhaul and what Fangraphs sees as the path to unlocking his elite raw power. Plus: all the latest league chaos — massive contracts for Schwarber and Alonso, Edwin Díaz to the Dodgers, a flurry of trades across MLB, and Jeff Kent heading to Cooperstown.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Dec 11, 20251h 37m

Ep 197Thrilling Milestone

The Winter Meetings are here, and the Cardinals might actually be ready to move Willson Contreras — with reports he’s now open to waiving his no-trade for the right fit. We dig into what that means, what happens with Donnie, Lars, and Nado, plus the Cardinals landing the No. 4 Comp Balance A pick and early extension talks with Oli Marmol. Then we break down Ryan Helsley’s big deal with Baltimore, Jordan Walker’s “earn it” spring ahead, and the wild news that the Cardinals will be revenue-sharing recipients for the first time in decades. And around the league: Devin Williams gets paid, Alek Manoah finds a new home, and the Blue Jays hand out another big contract.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Dec 4, 20251h 32m

Ep 196Fitts and Starts

The Cardinals kick off the offseason with a blockbuster: Sonny Gray is shipped to Boston in a restructured deal that guarantees him $41M for 2026, while St. Louis brings back young arms Richard Fitts and top prospect Brandon Clarke. We break down what the new rotation pieces bring, plus the Cardinals’ smaller moves with Yohel Pozo, Scott Blewett, and Sem Robberse. Trade chatter heats up around JoJo Romero and Ryan Helsley, and we check in on early World Series action and the latest league news, including Ohtani heading to the WBC and a surprising Semien/Nimmo trade.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Nov 27, 20251h 34m

Ep 195Donnie From the Block

The St. Louis Cardinals are gearing up for a busy offseason, planning for JJ Wetherholt to debut in 2025 and preparing potential trades involving Arenado, Gray, Donovan, and even Nootbaar. They protected four prospects on the 40-man, DFA’d Jorge Alcalá, and left Blaze Jordan unprotected. We break down the growing trade buzz, the potential options St. Louis is exploring, the Hall of Fame ballot, and big league news including Grayson Rodriguez’s blockbuster trade and several major qualifying-offer decisions.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Nov 20, 20251h 33m

Ep 194fUtility

Burly brings home the Silver Slugger (and yes, it totally counts). We talk Cardinals roster shuffles, Sonny Gray rumors, and what the offseason could hold for St. Louis pitching. Plus, we dig in on the gambling scandal and what it means for MLB, discuss new managers taking over, and finally say goodbye, thank god, to Kyle Hendricks.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Nov 13, 20251h 29m

Ep 193I Love Goooooold

The offseason is here and the Cardinals are already making moves. We talk Masyn Winn’s Gold Glove, new front office hires, and which Cards might be on the trade block. Plus, a quick World Series wrap-up and league news.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Nov 6, 20251h 25m

Ep 192Bats... BATS!!!

The Cardinals’ surgery list is SO SPOOKY! Brendan Donovan, Ivan Herrera, and Lars Nootbaar all go under the knife, and Joe McEwing vanishes into the night. We dig up the cursed stat lines of former Cardinals haunting other teams (Helsley’s Mets ERA will chill you to the bone) and ask if Busch Stadium itself is cursed against home runs. Plus, Shohei Ohtani is an unstoppable monster in the World Series, and the Giants and Orioles summon new managers from the crypt.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Oct 30, 20251h 24m

Ep 191More Like Twenty-Twenty-BYE

We’re wrapping up the 2025 Cardinals season and taking a hard look at what the numbers got right — and what they completely whiffed on. ZiPS nailed Sonny Gray’s ace-level season, Alec Burleson’s breakout, and Masyn Winn’s rise… but missed big on Jordan Walker and Nolan Arenado’s decline. We break down the biggest projection hits and misses, the disappointing –5 win gap from expectations, and the players who kept this team afloat. Plus, we share three things we actually liked about the 2025 Cardinals — because even a chaotic year has its bright spots.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Oct 23, 20251h 2m

Ep 190I'm Too Old For This Shildt

The Cardinals’ offseason rumor mill is heating up — could Ivan Herrera or Pedro Pagés be on the trade block? We break down Derrick Goold’s latest insights, arbitration projections, and what Mike Shildt’s surprising retirement says about his exit from St. Louis. Masyn Winn and Victor Scott II headline the Gold Glove finalists, while former Bird Tommy Pham makes another appearance. Plus, we check in on the NL/AL CS, Alex Bregman hits free agency, and Emmanuel Clase’s is fired into the sun.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Oct 16, 20251h 39m

Ep 189Hey, I'm Farmin' Here!

Chaim Bloom is already making moves — the Cardinals’ new president of baseball ops plans to add a leadership role to reshape the front office and sharpen pro scouting after recent trade misses. St. Louis also lands seven prospects on FanGraphs’ updated Top 100, tying Seattle for the most in baseball. We pick our 2025 team MVP, look at who’s heading to the Arizona Fall League, and check in on a red-hot Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Plus, Skip Schumaker heads to Texas, and a fan pulls off one of the greatest moments of all time. Also, a champion appears to play a game. Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.Like Pete Crow Armstrong, sometimes just forgets the basic principles of how this whole thing works.

Oct 9, 20251h 22m

Ep 188In the End, It Doesn't Even Batter

John Mozeliak officially says goodbye, Chaim Bloom steps in as Cardinals president of baseball ops, and Oli Marmol will return in 2026. Willson Contreras wants to stay in St. Louis, while Sonny Gray and Nolan Arenado are open to waiving their no-trade clauses—potentially clearing over $86 million from the payroll. We dig into what that means for the roster, the offseason, and the team’s future direction. Plus, playoff chatter and a wild week of league news as the Mets collapse, multiple managers are out, and MLB viewership climbs.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Oct 2, 20251h 19m

Ep 187Wheels Up

Nolan Arenado gets his possible farewell at Busch, Masyn Winn heads into knee surgery, and Ivan Herrera preps for offseason elbow work. Meanwhile, Herrera’s bat is scorching in September, Burley and Donnie are swinging it well, and even José Fermín is looking like a machine. Sonny Gray might’ve thrown his last start as a Cardinal, and we gear up for the season finale against the Cubs. Plus: automated strike zones, David Fry’s scary injury, and our World Series predictions.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Sep 25, 20251h 32m

Ep 186The Nates and the Bens (w/ Daniel Shoptaw)

Ben and guest Daniel Shoptaw (@C70) break down the latest St. Louis Cardinals news as Willson Contreras and Masyn Winn hit the IL, Nolan Arenado returns, and Thomas Saggese heats up. Plus, what’s next for Ivan Herrera and Jordan Walker and a preview of upcoming series vs. the Milwaukee Brewers, San Francisco Giants, and Chicago Cubs. We wrap with league news — the Chicago Cubs and Philadelphia Phillies clinch, and Cal Raleigh makes history — plus our World Series picks.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Sep 18, 20251h 21m

Ep 185Relatively Regular

We discuss Masyn Winn’s upcoming offseason knee surgery, Willson Contreras’ return, and Brendan Donovan’s rehab assignment, along with notable roster moves including Garrett Hampson’s DFA and Nick Raquet’s remarkable journey back to the majors. On the field, Nathan Church has been the Cardinals’ hottest player in September, while Jordan Walker continues to struggle through a difficult season. With 12 of the next 15 games against NL Central opponents, the upcoming stretch against the Brewers and Reds looms large for the Wild Card race (lol yeah right). Plus, we cover league news including injuries to Trea Turner and Alec Bohm, Anthony Rizzo’s retirement, the NL Wild Card picture, and… “Home Run Karen.”Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Sep 11, 20251h 28m

Ep 184Homework is For Nerds

We discuss Brant Brown’s comments on Jordan Walker’s preparation and what it says about the Cardinals’ hitting approach as a whole. Injury updates include Riley O’Brien, Alec Burleson, and Yohel Pozo, while César Prieto and Jimmy Crooks join the big league roster and Victor Scott II returns from the IL. On the field, Ivan Herrera and Pedro Pagés are carrying the offense, but Masyn Winn’s health and struggles at the plate raise concerns. Down on the farm, Joshua Baez, JJ Wetherholt, and Won-Bin Cho are all putting up impressive numbers as the system keeps producing. We preview series against the Giants and Mariners and cover league news from Boston’s Chapman extension to MLB’s ongoing betting investigation and Atlanta’s claim of Ha-Seong Kim.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Sep 4, 20251h 22m

Ep 183Pallante the Unpalatable

We discuss the latest Cardinals news, including Willson Contreras’ six-game suspension, updates on Donovan, Scott, Arenado, and Winn’s recovery timelines, and what it all means for the rest of the season. On the field, Nolan Gorman is having one of the best months of his career, Nathan Church is making his case, and the “Pallante Problem” has become impossible to ignore. We highlight McGreevy and Leahy as the team’s most reliable arms since the break, and preview upcoming series against the Reds and A’s. Plus, league news covers Zack Wheeler’s major health setback, the Orioles’ Basallo extension, Cal Raleigh’s home run milestone, and Ron Washington’s return to the Angels.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Aug 28, 20251h 22m

Ep 182Respondle

We discuss the latest Cardinals roster shuffles with Donovan and Scott hitting the IL, Arenado’s progress toward a return, and Mozeliak’s public backing of Oli Marmol. We look at standout performances from Svanson, McGreevy, and Pagés, while breaking down the team’s troubling offensive trends in August. Plus, we preview the Rays and Pirates series and dive into league news, from MLB’s shifting media deals to Victor Robles’ suspension and realignment chatter.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Aug 21, 20251h 35m

Ep 181Please Stop Looking at Me, Yadier Molina

The Cardinals are clinging to life in the Wild Card race, and we’ve got updates on Yadier Molina’s involvement, Lars Nootbaar’s bruised knee, and Nolan Arenado’s shoulder recovery plan. St. Louis also picked up RHP Jorge Alcala off waivers, and somehow… they’re still in this? We break down Quinn Matthews’ hot streak, Jordan Walker’s encouraging offensive signs, and Kyle Leahy’s potential leap forward. Then, we preview the upcoming Yankees and Marlins series, plus check in on league news as the Brewers keep rolling and the Twins’ sale falls through. Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Aug 14, 20251h 30m

Ep 180Gorman Rising, Again (Please ((please(((oh please)))

In this episode, we discuss the Cardinals placing Nolan Arenado on the IL and the return of a red-hot Nolan Gorman. We break down the trade deadline moves, including deals involving Steven Matz and Phil Maton, and wonder why the team held onto their lefty bats. With several new arms in the bullpen, we talk about what to expect from the reshuffled pitching staff. We preview the upcoming homestand against the Cubs and Rockies, and ask the important questions—like whether it’s time for JJ Wetherholt and time up for Garret Hampson. Plus, we cover a wild week of league news, including Jen Pawol making history and the Padres acquiring half the league.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.Ask ChatGPT

Aug 7, 20251h 34m

Ep 179It's a Packed Show (w/ Jake Wood)

The Cardinals made deadline noise, sending Ryan Helsley to the Mets and Erick Fedde to Atlanta, while Brendan Donovan and JoJo Romero continue to draw heavy interest. Sonny Gray is staying put, but Tekoah Roby is out with Tommy John surgery. The team has just four wins since the break and now sits 10 games back in the Central—so what should the rest of the season look like? We preview the upcoming road trip to San Diego and Los Angeles and ask if Ivan Herrera in the outfield makes any sense. Plus, a flurry of league trades, Bryce Harper goes off on Manfred, and we remember Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg.

Jul 31, 20251h 49m

Ep 178Optimizing Optimal Optimization

This week, Nate and Ben talk Canada and the Savannah Bananas, then it’s all Cardinals: Gorman hits the IL, trade chatter heats up, and the rotation continues to fall apart while the bullpen thrives. They break down Pallante’s Jekyll-and-Hyde sinker, discuss Fedde's DFA as the news breaks, and preview the upcoming Padres and Marlins series. Plus, league news, Rich Hill makes history, and a Wrigley fan goes all in for a souvenir.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Jul 24, 20251h 20m

Ep 177"Doyle Rules!" Would Be a Lazy Title For This Episode (w/ Daniel Shoptaw)

It’s All-Star week! Nate is joined by Daniel Shoptaw (@C70) to talk Brendan Donovan’s big night, Liam Doyle’s surprise selection at No. 5, and what the next two weeks need to look like for the Cardinals to be legit buyers. Plus: the bullpen is locked in, the Birds head west, Cal Raleigh swings for the crown, and the Rays have a new owner incoming.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Jul 17, 20251h 23m

Ep 176Hey Don, You're an All Star

Brendan Donovan is officially an All-Star! We talk about what that means for the Cardinals and dive into Mozeliak’s comments on ownership’s willingness to invest. Arenado’s battling shoulder pain, Fedde’s mechanics are a mess, and we wonder if it’s time to trade Helsley. We preview the Braves series before the All-Star break and look ahead to the D-Backs. Plus, big moves around the league, a sad farewell to Bobby Jenks, and much more!Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Jul 10, 20251h 28m

Ep 175Ghost in the Pod

Jordan Walker hits the IL with appendicitis, but the Cardinals cling to a wild card spot as July kicks off. We talk José Fermín’s hot start, Masyn Winn’s star turn, and Sonny Gray’s dominant outing. With a soft schedule ahead, what should the Cards do at the deadline? Plus, a Diamondbacks fan gets banned and the Women’s Pro Baseball League announces its first-ever tryouts.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Jul 3, 20251h 19m

Ep 174Beefy Boys are Back

Iván Herrera hits the IL with a hammy strain, and Thomas Saggese gets the call-up. The Cards also snag Garrett Hampson off waivers while DFA’ing Jose Barrero. On the field, Burly is crushing June with a 161 wRC+ and just 8 Ks in 88 PAs—but Gormy’s even hotter, slashing .289/.385/.607 with 5 bombs. Libby and Fedde are locked in, Maton’s untouchable, and Andre Granillo grabs his first MLB win and save. We preview the road trip to Cleveland and Pittsburgh, shout out Cal Raleigh’s historic homer binge, and check in on the latest from around the league. Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Jun 26, 20251h 26m

Ep 173Rotation Rotation

Ben almost blew up, Jordan Walker’s back, the rotation’s a mess, and we’re wondering if Quinn Mathews will be our new favorite Cardinal by July. Lars Nootbaar can’t hit a fastball, Pallante’s ERA is climbing, and McGreevy might be on the way. We preview a big week with the Reds and Cubs coming to town. Plus: Devers gets shipped to the Giants, Civale and Vaughn swap teams, and—wait—Shohei Ohtani pitched?!Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Jun 19, 20251h 35m

Ep 172Are We Gorman, or Are We GormOut?

Nate and Ben open with some Blogger Day talk and then dive into Cardinals news. Brendan Donovan is out with a toe injury, Jordan Walker is progressing well, and Matthew Liberatore is showing signs of fatigue. Zach Plesac signs a minor league deal after pitching well in independent ball. Nolan Gorman is heating up, and McGreevy had a solid six-inning outing. Victor Scott breaks a hitless streak but is still struggling at the plate. They close with series previews and league updates, including Corbin Burnes' Tommy John surgery and several prospect promotions.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Jun 12, 20251h 25m

Ep 171Road to Regression

In this episode of Talking About Birds, the hosts recap a tough week for the Cardinals, who placed Jordan Walker on the IL and called up Ryan Vilade, while also signing Tyler Matzek to a minor league deal. The pitching staff continues to struggle—Pallante’s arsenal lacks effectiveness, Leahy isn’t generating strikeouts, and Mikolas’s fastball ranks among the worst in MLB. Offensively, Nolan Arenado is slumping, raising questions about rest versus defensive value, while Masyn Winn and Alec Burleson help keep the team afloat. The episode also previews upcoming series against the Dodgers and Blue Jays, and covers league news including injuries to Corbin Burnes and AJ Smith-Shawver, the Royals promoting Jac Caglianone, and troubling reports about threats made against Lance McCullers.Have a question or comment for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at: (848) 48-BIRDS (848-482-4737)Talking About Birds is listener supported on Patreon. Support the show and join our private discord server at: www.patreon.com/talkingaboutbirds.

Jun 5, 20251h 22m