The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast

DVR and Beller dig into another week of waiver-wire considerations including Zach McKinstry's extended opportunity to play in Los Angeles, Danny Duffy's move back toward fantasy relevance, Kendall Graveman's push toward the closer role in Seattle, and the D-backs' promotion of J.B. Bukauskas.Rundown1:14 Zach McKinstry3:29 J.P. Crawford5:28 DJ Stewart9:08 Adolis García13:32 Billy McKinney16:02 Jose Marmolejos17:39 Danny Duffy20:19 Jake Arrieta22:26 Josh Fleming24:15 Joe Ross27:35 Kohei Arihara28:52 Michael Wacha31:47 Nick Pivetta33:02 Jeff Hoffman35:23 Taylor Widener37:10 José Ureña38:52 Kyle Wright40:10 Rafael Dolis42:36 Kendall Graveman & Keynan Middleton44:50 Throwing Darts in Minnesota or Cleveland?47:29 J.B. BukauskasFollow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperFollow Beller on Twitter: @MBellerSubscribe to The Athletic for just $3.99/mo to start: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's time for another edition of the beat writer roundup on The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. First, Aaron Gleeman joins Beller and DVR from the Twins beat. Is the Byron Buxton breakout season upon us? Can the team find consistent ABs for Luis Arraez and Willians Astudillo? Aaron answers those questions, and more. Then Tigers reporter Cody Stavenhagen joins the show to discuss Akil Baddoo, Matthew Boyd, Casey Mize, and more.After that, Beller and DVR dive into the early returns on the new ball, look ahead to the weekend, and play a round of "Is This Real?" The topic: Kris Bryant's rebound.Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBellerFollow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperFollow Aaron on Twitter: @AaronGleemanFollow Cody on Twitter: @CodyStavenhagen Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss Logan Allen's early-season success, Roman Quinn's path to cheap stolen bases, taking a wait-and-see approach with early pickups, Rougned Odor as a Yankee, and the potential long-term issues with Fernando Tatis Jr.'s shoulder. Rundown5:27 Ian Gets Pulled Into the Baseball Card Game8:42 Avoiding Chris Flexen, Even as a Streamer?13:08 Logan Allen’s Early-Season Success18:50 Chasing Roman Quinn for Cheap Speed?22:32 Taking the Wait-and-See Approach31:57 Ian Admits Defeat on J.D. Martinez37:05 Yermín Mercedes vs. Akil Baddoo42:14 Is Matt Carpenter Done? Deep League Interest in José Rojas?50:07 Long-Term Concerns About Fernando Tatis Jr.'s Shoulder?Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRipere-mail: [email protected], use subject line "Under the Radar" Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sunday is waiver day in the fantasy baseball world, so DVR and Beller are back to break down the fantasy baseball waiver and FAB landscape.Should you buy hot starts from Tyler Naquin and Akil Baddoo? Is Tim Locastro the top target on the wire this weekend? Is Zach McKinstry getting enough playing time with the Dodgers to earn fantasy notice? How much should you be willing to plunk down on Yimi García? Which two-start pitchers deserve your attention? The guys answer all those questions, and a whole lot more.Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperFollow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the new-look Thursday edition of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. This season, we'll be bringing on our The Athletic beat writers as part of our Thursday episode to give us an on-the-ground look at some of the biggest stories in the fantasy game. After that, Beller and DVR will cover the rest of what's now in fantasy baseball.This week, Orioles beat writer Dan Connolly joins to discuss the strong starts for Cedric Mullins and César Valdez. Reds beat writer C. Trent Rosecrans gets into the hottest offense in baseball, led by Nick Castellanos...and Tyler Naquin?!? Then, Beller and DVR share the first week overreactions that they're trusting.Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBellerFollow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperFollow Dan on Twitter: @danconnolly2016Follow Trent on Twitter: @ctrent Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ian & DVR give Nando a victor lap on Yermín Mercedes and audibly laugh out loud as his next pick (Stephen Gonsalves) to find a meaningful big-league role, before discussing Jared Walsh's continuation of a 2020 breakout, and the possibility of a stronger Billy Hamilton. Rundown5:29 Stephen Gonsalves: “The Next Big Thing”11:54 Avoiding Matchups Against the Dodgers19:09 Is Ian Too High on Shohei Ohtani?26:23 Kyle Isbel's Arrival31:38 Cleveland's Lefty-Heavy Early Schedule41:13 Jared Walsh is a Beast43:58 Ian: Go Get Billy Hamilton50:00 Taylor Widener's Impressive DebutFollow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

DVR and Beller dig into the best available waiver-wire options as the first weekend of the fantasy baseball season rolls along. How should you prioritize the top prospects that found their way onto Opening Day rosters? Is Nando right about Yermín Mercedes? Are there are any useful streamers or two-start pitchers to pick up? What should you do with César Valdez?Rundown2:00 Jazz Chisholm Jr. in Shallow Leagues?4:26 Jonathan India’s Playing Time7:42 Taylor Trammell10:58 Kyle Isbel & Michael Taylor17:15 Austin Slater21:29 Yermín Mercedes27:48 Is Tyler O’Neill Shallow League Viable?29:03 Anthony DeSclafani31:42 Daniel Ponce de Leon33:15 Trevor Williams37:02 Adrian Morejon39:10 Steven Matz41:14 José De León44:19 Brett Anderson46:10 One-Start Options: Cueto, Gomber, John Gant, Wade Miley47:59 Jake McGee49:00 Mark Melancon50:37 Jake Diekman52:40 Yimi García54:35 César Valdez58:55 Ian KennedyFollow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperFollow Beller on Twitter: @MBellerSubscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month to start: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's Opening Day! What better way to celebrate than with some bold predictions?Beller and DVR offer up their bold predictions for the 2021 season, with big takes on Victor Robles (obviously), Ketel Marte, Yoán Moncada, Tyler Glasnow, Ian Anderson, Joey Gallo, Randy Arozarena, and more!Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBellerFollow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperPlease fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurvey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian and DVR submit their considerations for the 2021 Under the Radar team.Rundown4:29 Stashing Tanner Houck?7:27 Nando's Under the Radar Team Selections27:54 DVR’s UTR Selections44:37 Ian’s UTR Selections55:45 DVR Stops Throwing Putters (and Explains Cristian Pache)Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperPlease fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurveySubscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month to start: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is the final Sunday before Opening Day, so you know what that means: It's time for the return of the weekly FAB and Waivers Show on The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast.DVR and Beller are here to walk you through the first FAB period of the season. Which available starting pitchers have appealing two-start weeks? Which potential closers are worth a speculative add. Which fantasy-relevant hitters are still sitting out there on waiver wires? The guys answer those questions and a whole lot more, discussing 30 or so players who could be interesting additions this weekend.Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperFollow Beller on Twitter: @MBellerPlease fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurvey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jake Ciely joins DVR and Beller on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast, turning the My Guys column into a show. The trio highlights the players they like comfortably better than the consensus.Players discussed include Victor Robles, Pete Alonso, Jeff McNeil, Julio Urías, Charlie Morton, Alex Bregman, Starling Mate and more.Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperFollow Beller on Twitter: @MBellerFollow Jake on Twitter: @allinkidPlease fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurvey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss Nando's growing love for Ronald Guzmán, the benefits of utilizing 2020 Postseason stats, and their takeaways from the weekend's Tout Wars festivities. Rundown2:48 Ronald Guzmán’s Push Back Into the Lineup 8:26 Adding 2020 Postseason to 2020 Stats17:49 A Fun Tout WARS Weekend21:04 OBP vs. AVG as a Category27:03 Auction Madness37:52 Ian and Nando Step Away42:07 Joey Gallo is Underpriced49:19 Intriguing Cheap BuysFollow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRipere-mail: [email protected], use subject line 'Under the Radar'Please fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurveySubscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month to start: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's MLB win total over/under season, and we at The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast are celebrating by devoting an entire episode to our favorite overs and unders of the year.Senior editor for sports gambling Andrew DeWitt joins Beller and DVR for this episode. The guys have strong takes on, to name a few, the Braves, Nationals, Blue Jays, Yankees, Cardinals and Pirates. Plus, they discuss some of the most interesting teams in the over/under market, including the Dodgers, Padres, Mets and Twins.Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBellerFollow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperFollow Andrew on Twitter: @AndrewRDeWittPlease fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurvey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss a few players that the projections disagree about, how they prefer to mix and match players across multiple rosters, 2021 pitcher management, expectations for Joc Pederson in Chicago, and more.Rundown2:35 Disassembling the Cushbot to Understand Christian Walker8:40 Players that Projection Systems Disagree About16:39 Andrew Vaughn vs. Walker; Ceiling vs. Floor22:03 Do You Diversify or Pick the Same Players, Generally?33:13 2021 Pitching Workload Questions39:38 Re-Examining Joc Pederson in Chicago42:29 Players Returning From Suspension45:56 Nando Gets Ty France in the Tout Wars Draft-and-Hold LeagueFollow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRipere-mail: [email protected], use subject line 'Under the Radar'Please fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurvey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

DVR is joined by Clay Link, Senior MLB Editor at RotoWire to discuss his expectations for Vlad Jr., faith in productive 2021 debuts from Wander Franco and Jarred Kelenic, balancing skills vs. job security with closers, pitching targets outside the Top 200, and more. Rundown2:11 Vlad Jr. Expectations in Year 39:16 Wander Franco & Jarred Kelenic Arrivals12:39 Stashing Prospects in Redraft17:52 Balance of Skills vs. Job Security In Closer Target26:46 Former First & Second-Rounders at a Discount32:07 Favorite Pitching Targets Outside Top 200 Overall36:54 Are the Reds’ Bats Undervalued?Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperFollow Clay on Twitter: @claywlinkPlease fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurveySubscribe to The Athletic for just $3.99/mo to start: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian & DVR discuss several under the radar players this draft season -- including Amed Rosario, Amir Garrett, Archie Bradley, Nomar Mazara, and Tigers Rule 5 pick Akil Baddoo -- before diving into Ian's strategy in AL LABR. Rundown2:34 Interest in Amed Rosario as a Late Target?10:00 Amir Garrett vs. Archie Bradley14:38 Jake Bauers? Nope. 18:23 Is Nando Right to Believe in Nomar Mazara?25:09 Akil Baddoo’s Chance in Detroit30:04 Franklin Barreto, Cristian Pache and Enrique Hernández36:00 Shohei Ohtani’s Return to the Mound41:23 Hunter Greene is Lighting Up the Radar Gun45:19 Ian’s AL LABR Auction Strategy & CounselFollow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper Please fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurveySubscribe to The Athletic for just $3.99/month to start: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ottoneu creator Niv Shah joins DVR and Beller on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast, and given the style of play in Ottoneu leagues, it's no surprise that the guys are focused on youngsters. Specifically, they discuss the young hitters and pitchers they're targeting in keeper and dynasty leagues.In addition to talking about players like Alec Bohm, Nick Senzel, Kyle Lewis, José Urquidy and Triston McKenzie, Niv also gets into the ins and outs of Ottoneu leagues and the virtues of adding holds to your fantasy league.Please fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurveyFollow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperFollow Beller on Twitter: @MBellerFollow Niv on Twitter: @nivshah Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian and DVR dig into a few sleepers from The Athletic's team beat writers and discuss the chaos of juggling multiple drafts simultaneously as draft season heats up, their search for saves in Atlanta, and a candidate to fill the shoes of Jedd Gyorko in Nando's heart.Rundown1:55 Drafts Are in Full Swing8:58 Making Nando’s Tout Wars Decision on the Wheel17:00 Ty France is the New Jedd Gyorko20:54 Is Rowdy Tellez Really Under the Radar?28:26 A Rebound For Hunter Dozier?31:18 Digging Deep for Saves in Atlanta33:45 Avisaíl García’s Transformation38:16 Javier Báez & Losing Focus48:21 Shogo Akiyama’s Second Season54:00 Getting Drunk For A Box Break?!Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRipere-mail: [email protected], use subject line 'Under the Radar'Please fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurveySubscribe to The Athletic for just $3.99/month: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This may be just one person's point of view (the person writing this show description), but this is going to be one of the most fun-filled years to draft pitchers in a long time. From pocket aces, to the increasing price of pitching, to the likelihood that at least 30 starters will be off the board within the first 100 picks of most drafts, the posture a drafter takes at starting pitcher will determine, more than any one input, the overall shape of his or her team.Vlad Sedler joins DVR and Beller on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast to break it all down. They discuss the risk surrounding the increasing price of mid-round pitchers, the early round guys they want to avoid, and late starters to target. They also get into a number of draft-day player vs. player debates, including Trevor Bauer vs. Yu Darvish, Brandon Woodruff vs. Clayton Kershaw, and Blake Snell vs. Tyler Glasnow.Please fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurveyFollow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperFollow Beller on Twitter: @MBellerFollow Vlad on Twitter: @RotoGut Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the opportunities for several young players in Seattle, potential rebounds from Yoán Moncada and Ketel Marte, Ian's new approach for dynasty rankings, and more!Rundown2:14 Baseball Pods Bracket7:24 Opportunities for Young Players in Seattle17:15 Interested in Discounted Yoán Moncada?27:29 Banking on a Rebound From Ketel Marte?32:06 Ian’s New Dynasty Rankings40:53 Rylan Bannon & José De León Snubbed42:27 Sheldon Neuse as a Dodger50:33 Fitting ADP Info to Auction Values55:01 Naming DVRismsPlease fill out our listener survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurveyFollow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperSubscribe to The Athletic for just $3.99/month: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

USA Today's Steve Gardner joins Derek VanRiper and Michael Beller on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast to break down the Mixed LABR draft, which took place on February 16. The guys look at the draft through the lens of Steve's team. which he selected from the 12 spot in a 15-team league.The guys get into why it makes sense to believe in a Christian Yelich bounceback season, Yu Darvish's move to San Diego, Stephen Strasburg's discount window, Giancarlo Stanton's range of realistic outcomes, the pocket aces strategy, and a whole lot more.Draft Board: https://www.rtsports.com/labr-mixed-draftListener Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/athleticaudiosurveyFollow Derek on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperFollow Beller on Twitter: @MBellerFollow Steve on Twitter: @SteveAGardner Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando and DVR are joined by Mike 'The Mouth' Massotto to discuss draft-and-hold leagues, trusting Randy Arozarena and Framber Valdez, Nando's "bike spoke players", and an opportunity to take his money in the 2021 NFBC Main Event. Rundown4:30 As a High Stakes Player, Why Talk During Draft Season?9:21 Why Go High Stakes in the Draft-and-Hold Format?13:46 Trusting Randy Arozarena 21:35 Early Pitching Foundations & Framber Valdez26:35 Pushing Players Late & Bike Spoke Players33:01 A Quick Trip Back to the 80s 40:15 DVR’s Drafting Style as Diagnosed by MTM44:18 David Price vs. Dustin May for 202148:38 An Opportunity to Take Mike’s Money in the NFBC Main EventFollow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperFollow Mike on Twitter: @GodfatherNFBCe-mail: [email protected] use subject line 'Under the Radar'Subscribe to The Athletic for just $3.99/month to start: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Derek Carty of ESPN and RotoGrinders joins Derek VanRiper and Michael Beller on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. The guys dive into Derek's new projection system THE BAT X, and its differences from its predecessor, THE BAT. The guys then use those projections to discuss players such as Vlad Guerrero Jr., Justin Turner, Wander Franco and more.The trio also gets into how the shortened 2020 season changes and, perhaps more interestingly, doesn't change the projections process, with a look at 2020 breakouts we can trust, and some others we might want to approach a bit more carefully.Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperFollow Beller on Twitter: @MBellerFollow Derek on Twitter: @DerekCarty Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the under the radar winners from the Elvis Andrus-Khris Davis deal, their interest in Forrest Whitley following two disappointing seasons, Keston Hiura's long-term value with the move to first base, their approach toward closers in 2021, and more. Rundown2:48 The Catchers Win in A’s-Rangers Swap8:31 Interest in Forrest Whitley After Two Disappointing Seasons?17:52 Keston Hiura’s Long-Term Value Moving to First Base24:14 Mychal Givens and Recent Rockies Closers 31:34 Approach w/Closers Generally41:33 Making a Keeper Decision: Biggio vs. Kelenic53:15 Can You Even Reach in the Later Rounds?Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRipere-mail: [email protected], use subject line "Under the Radar"Subscribe to The Athletic for just $3.99/month to start: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It all starts at the top, even for a couple of fantasy baseball industry veterans who are already immersed in draft prep. Derek VanRiper and Michael Beller focus their attention on the top of the draft on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast.This season features the deepest pool of realistic 1.1 candidates in a long time. So, if you're in that chair, who should you take? How early must you act on starting pitchers, and what happens if you pass the point of no return? How heavily should we weigh 2020's siloed division schedule structure in our 2021 valuation of starting pitchers? The guys get into all that, and a whole lot more.Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperFollow Beller on Twitter: @MBeller Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the Angels' rotation in search of pitching values, possible playing time routes for Jared Walsh and Franklin Barreto, trading tips from Ian, and projections for roles in the Colorado infield sans Nolan Arenado. Rundown4:34 Assessing The Angels’ Rotation10:13 Finding Time for Jared Walsh13:48 Does Franklin Barreto Have a Path to Playing Time?16:27 Still Interested in Justin Upton?19:09 Optimistic Season Will Start On Time?24:48 Nando’s Draft-and-Hold Partnership28:33 Looking for a Rebound From Ross Stripling?35:04 Trading Tips From Ian44:34 Projecting the Rockies’ Infield Without Nolan ArenadoFollow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRipere-mail: [email protected] use subject line 'Under the Radar'Subscribe to The Athletic for just $3.99/month to start: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian & DVR discuss Jameson Taillon as a Yankee, Ian's attempt to influence Steve Cohen, and DVR's disappointment in fourth-and-goal field goals before discussing deep dynasty league draft picks considerations, how they each begin their prep for a new season, Rundown3:31 Predicting Ian’s Feelings About the Jameson Taillon Deal6:15 Bringing the Blue Check Mark to Steve Cohen12:05 Football's Blake Snell Moment16:04 Should We Expect a Better Draft Class Following the Smaller 2020 Group?24:38 Thoughts on Isaac Paredes?32:00 An Attempt to Go Outside the Box with a Keeper Decision36:48 Level of Concern w/Wander Franco's Underlying Numbers41:03 Setting Up Individual Draft Prep47:45 Playing to Your Strengths as a Fantasy PlayerFollow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRipere-mail: [email protected], use subject line 'Under the Radar' Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss several late-round considerations for deep leagues in the wake of DVR's first draft-and-hold league, plus the Cleveland offense after the Francisco Lindor trade, Masahiro Tanaka's falling price, and concerns about Dinelson Lamet's health in the wake of the Padres' trade for Joe Musgrove. Rundown3:39 DVR’s First Draft And Hold of 20215:30 Ian Pries for Late-Round Darts13:59 Ian Shares Some of His Own Late-Round Darts26:20 A Look at Cleveland Post Lindor35:30 Are We Still Undervaluing Lance Lynn (Especially in Long-Term Formats)?45:36 Understanding Masahiro Tanaka’s Falling Price47:53 Concerns About Dinelson Lamet w/Joe Musgrove Deal?Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the intriguing and undervalued group of utility-only hitters in the 2021 player pool, the importance of DJ LeMahieu staying in the Bronx, and a Nando's foray deeper into the eBay abyss. Rundown6:43 Comfortable with DJ LeMahieu in the Early Rounds? 9:09 The UT-only Players Are Undervalued (Again)21:13 Tommy Edman, Leodys Taveras, Shohei Ohtani & Jeimer Candelario27:10 Considering the Repetition in the 2020 Schedule31:21 The Official Prospect of Under the Radar?36:35 Extreme Sabotage41:38 Getting Caught in a Christin Stewart eBay Worm Hole46:57 Scratching the Itch with Baseball Cards Instead of Roster SpotsFollow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRipere-mail: [email protected] (use subject line 'Under the Radar') Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian and DVR dig into the early NFBC ADP numbers and discuss Luis Robert's early-round price for 2021, expectations for him in the short (and long) term, plus intrigue with Austin Riley, the seemingly undervalued Joey Gallo, and another year with uncertain playing time for Clint Frazier. Rundown4:30 A Podcast-Driven Industry Keeper League?7:08 Mike Piellucci: Time Traveler?10:31 Nando's Case for Avoiding Top 40-50 Players in Auctions15:16 Luis Robert with a Third-Round ADP22:42 Targeting Jo Adell for a 2021 Step Forward?28:39 Buying Austin Riley's Improved Plate Skills?32:39 Shohei Ohtani’s 2021 Role38:06 Concerns About Clint Frazier Playing Time41:31 Joey Gallo's Discounted Price48:30 Appreciating Raisel Iglesias52:19 Ian's Valuation of the 2020 SeasonFollow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @[email protected], use subject line "Under the Radar"Buy a one-year subscription to The Athletic, get a free one-year subscription to The Athletic to give to a friend: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the recent XFL auction, and discuss the optimal setup for a long-term league including number of teams, roster rules, in-season settings, and more. Rundown1:26 The 2021 XFL Auction14:12 Setting Up a Perfect Long-Term League19:03 DVR Takes Another L 24:33 How to Handle Bad GM28:56 On Vetoes & Trade Deadlines36:28 Keep Everyone (Dynasty) or Salaries & Contracts?56:43 FAAB is a Must!68:28 The Real Frank CostanzaFollow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRipere-mail: [email protected], use subject 'Under the Radar' Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss Charlie Morton's move to Atlanta, Adley Rutschmann's place in Ian's updated dynasty rankings, Pete Alonso's long-term value, a Bowman Turkey Prospect from Nando, and paths to playing time for Jared Walsh in Anaheim. Rundown3:21 Charlie Morton Joins Drew Smyly in Atlanta8:22 Adley Rutschmann and Long-Term Catcher Concerns24:53 Re-Thinking Pete Alonso's Dynasty Value29:22 Ew, Ian36:34 A Bowman Turkey Prospect from Nando41:33 Finding PT for Jared Walsh45:55 Jazz Chisholm: High-Risk, High-Reward?51:30 How Good Is Michael Conforto?Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRipere-mail: [email protected] use subject line 'Under the Radar'Subscribe to The Athletic for just $1/week: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss DVR's upcoming 2021 fantasy baseball rankings -- including the case for Tim Anderson as an early-round pick, disagreement about Max Scherzer -- a trimmed down Vladimir Guerrero Jr, and Marcus Stroman's return to the Mets.Rundown2:00 2021 Rankings Coming Monday!6:18 A Trimmer Vladimir Guerrero Jr. 16:00 What Do You Make of Tim Anderson Going Forward?20:15 Marcus Stroman Accepts the Qualifying Offer with the Mets27:57 Tony La Russa, The White Sox & Being Blinded By Success33:02 Nando on MLB Now!37:27 Cavan Biggio & Statcast Weirdness43:08 Projecting Dominic Smith's Playing Time46:10 Yu Darvish, Max Scherzer & Top-20 Starting Pitcher WoesFollow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRipere-mail: [email protected], use subject line 'Under the Radar' Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian & DVR discuss their selections for several awards, including 2020's biggest disappointments, players they've changed their opinions on, who they wish they could have seen a full season from, Pediatrician of the Year, and more....Rundown5:05 Biggest Disappointments of 202012:31 Stat I'm Going to Dismiss for 202115:41 Player I Wish I Got 162 Games From21:08 Favorite Ian Sound Effect24:19 Craziest Part of 202031:48 Player I'm Going to Try and Sneak Through in 202137:33 The Player I Changed My View on Completely42:37 Pediatrician of the Year47:57 Player Who Will Be on All of My Teams in 2021Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRipere-mail: [email protected], use subject line "Under the Radar"Subscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian and DVR dig into several hitter leaderboards -- quiz show style -- despite a major scandal, and discuss age considerations in dynasty leagues. Rundown5:02 Players with 10+ Steals, Never Caught Stealing in 202010:46 Interested in Cedric Mullins?15:48 Ian’s Organic Rant21:26 Six Players with 10 Steals and 10 Homers (and one bonus)32:05 Age Considerations in Dynasty Leagues38:01 Who Led MLB in Triples This Season?44:03 GO/AO Leaders Among Hitters57:26 Catcher with Elite Average Exit Velocity61:13 Six Players Saw 1100+ Pitches in 2020Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRipere-mail: [email protected], use subject line 'Under the Radar'Subscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian and DVR marvel at Giancarlo Stanton's postseason power, and enjoy a quiz-show style game digging into several surprising pitching nuggets from the 2020 season.Rundown1:04 Playoff Observations9:05 Starting Pitcher Workloads14:18 Good WHIP, Bad Earned Run Totals19:19 Sources of Saves, Elevated ERAs27:31 Acuña vs the Marlins34:37 High K/9, High GO/AO39:15 Early Notes From the 2021 Mason Mocks53:02 A Non-Baseball Tie-BreakerFollow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRipere-mail: [email protected] use subject line 'Under the Radar'Subscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss the conclusion of the 2020 fantasy baseball season, and revisit many of the bets they made while the season was on hold throughout the spring.Rundown4:09 How Did 2020 Turn Out for the Group?16:53 So, Now What?21:37 Is This It for Madison Bumgarner?25:01 They Were Right About Jurickson Profar28:15 Kevin Cron Didn't Get an Opportunity30:45 Starling Marte vs. Adalberto Mondesi33:47 Ian Takes an 'L' on Craig Kimbrel41:08 Biggest Hits & Misses This SeasonFollow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRipere-mail: [email protected], use subject line 'Under the Radar' Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

DVR and Beller discuss some of the biggest pitching risers in 2020 and assess their likely 2021 draft-day cost against their expectations. Rundown2:47 Where Do We Go From Here w/Max Fried7:16 Buying High on Kenta Maeda Next Season?14:54 Lamenting Lamet’s Rising Price22:05 Zach Plesac and Exceeding Expectations29:18 Tyler Glasnow and Extreme Early Risk-Reward35:34 Dylan Bundy’s Small Adjustments Yield Big Improvements39:28 Framber Valdez and a Massive BreakoutFollow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperFollow Beller on Twitter: @MBellerSubscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss their push toward the finish line of the 2020 season, enjoying the ride even in the absence of a championship, pitcher health and workload expectations for 2021, disappointing follow-ups from Austin Meadows and Pete Alonso, and more.Rundown3:43 Yadiel Hernandez Hits a Walk-Off Homer!7:47 Triple Crown Update10:51 Handling Emotions During the Stretch Run19:00 Is It Only the Money, or Can You Enjoy the Ride?30:02 2021 Workloads & Pitcher Health (Dane Dunning v. Kris Bubic)37:13 Austin Meadows' 2021 Value42:12 Pete Alonso's Disappointing Sophomore Campaign47:56 Buying The 'New' Steven Brault?51:26 Is It Finally Happening for Nick Pivetta?Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRipere-mail: [email protected] use subject line 'Under the Radar'Subscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month at theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

DVR and Beller discuss the widely-available options ahead of the final weekend of pickups of the 2020 fantasy baseball season.Rundown2:04 Two-Start Pitchers14:44 One-Start Options22:00 Relief Pitchers (Spoiler Alert: There's Not Much Out There!)28:43 Hitters to ConsiderFollow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperFollow Beller on Twitter: @MBellerSubscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month at theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 2020 MLB regular season is all but in the can, so Michael Beller and Nando Di Fino thought they'd take a look ahead to 2021 on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. Specifically, they consider where some of this season's most interesting players, for both good and bad reasons, will end up in 2021.Rundown2:20 Fernando Tatis Jr.6:35 Luke Voit10:50 Michael Conforto14:21 Pete Alonso16:32 Javier Báez20:51 Mike Yastrzemski25:06 Bryce Harper28:52 Kyle Lewis33:34 Luis Robert37:00 Clint Frazier38:10 Victor Robles44:32 Dansby Swanson47:33 José Altuve and Alex Bregman52:56 Vlad Guerrero Jr.Follow Beller on Twitter: @MBellerFollow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoGet a subscription to The Athletic for $1/month at theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss new formats to consider for future fantasy baseball seasons after this year's 60-game sprint, the merits (and drawbacks) of daily roster moves, a UTR favorite's first opportunity in the big leagues, and more!Rundown4:22 Playing More Short-Term Leagues in the Future?10:09 Do You Prefer Daily Moves Going Forward?18:06 Devin Williams Might Be Better Than Josh Hader26:37 Obligatory Tyler Wade Update28:02 Christian Arroyo; Deeeeep Sleeper?34:38 Checking In On The Athletic Cutline Championship38:18 This Week in Observing Player Behavior: Grisham, Braun & Yadi44:23 Watch the EyesFollow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRipere-mail: [email protected] use subject line 'Under the Radar'Subscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month at theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There may be just two weeks left in the MLB season, but this is shaping up to be a busy waiver run in fantasy baseball leagues. Derek VanRiper and Michael Beller discuss 25 players who could be added, and five who can be dropped, in their penultimate waiver episode of the season.Rundown0:46 José Urquidy2:17 Ljay Newsome4:37 Brett Anderson5:21 Kris Bubic, Jake Junis and Brady Singer8:46 Cole Hamels10:16 Deivi García11:45 Two-Start Weeks, Highlighted by Dane Dunning14:48 Greg Holland16:49 Rafael Dolis18:25 Yohan Ramirez20:12 Arizona's Closer Situation23:03 Leody Taveras25:40 Miguel Andújar27:28 Nate Lowe28:56 Tim Locastro30:43 Tyler O'Neill32:43 Edward Olivares35:03 Jedd Gyorko36:56 Ryan Jeffers38:36 Josh Rojas39:50 Time to Drop Your Injured Players42:18 Any Waiver Regrets This Season?DVR's Adds and Drops ColumnFollow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperFollow Beller on Twitter: @MBellerGet a subscription to The Athletic for $1/month at theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

DVR and Ian discuss what they look for in long-term pickup targets, the rise of Sixto Sánchez, the slide of Forrest Whitley, and more.Rundown2:12 What Are You Looking for Long-Term Buy Lows & Pickups?9:40 Who Are You Seeking Out in Future Trades?17:21 Targeting Dylan Carlson in 2021?24:39 Buying High on Jesús Luzardo and Sixto Sánchez?33:24 A Theory on Some 2020 Strikeout Rate Risers38:56 Luis Patiño's Limited Role in Year 145:05 Do You Still Have Faith in Forrest Whitley?Follow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRipere-mail: [email protected], use subject line 'Under the Radar'Get a subscription to The Athletic for $1/month at theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian and DVR discuss ugly closer situation, considerations to make when dropping players, growing love for the Tigers, and Ian's rivalry with Jason Sudeikis.Rundown3:26 The Sprint to the Finish7:11 Ugly Closer Situations17:08 How to Choose a Drop25:44 Why Your Team Might Be Low in Batting Average32:08 Growing Love for the Tigers36:01 Ian’s UTR Targets for the Week41:39 The Kahn-Sudeikis RivalryFollow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRipere-mail: [email protected] (use subject line 'Under the Radar') Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Derek VanRiper is joined by Al Melchior to discuss best available players on the waiver wire following Monday's trade deadline.Rundown1:54 Is Ty France the Best Available Hitter This Week?4:12 Interest in Josh Naylor with the Move to Cleveland6:47 Ke’Bryan Hayes in Mixed Leagues?9:24 Yairo Muñoz’s Opportunity in Boston11:30 Daulton Varsho is Finally Playing Regularly13:49 Luis Torrens Might Be a Long-Term Solution in Seattle16:00 Luis Campusano and a PT Problem17:44 Can Josh Rojas Play in Mixed Leagues?19:30 Did We Overlook Victor Reyes?25:50 Shallow League Appeal for Jeimer Candelario?27:50 All-In on Pineda?29:23 Is Deivi Garcia in the Rotation?32:09 Jose Urquidy Conerns…35:08 Johan Oviedo: Intriguing, But Tough Two-Start Week38:53 Bidding on Caleb Smith?40:20 Josh Fleming the Steady Floor Pitcher41:35 Risky Two-Start Options & Streaming Considerations49:46 Closer CarouselFollow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBBFollow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

DVR is joined by Todd Zola of Mastersball & RotoWire to discuss how we should weight 2020 performances in 2021 projections, confusion about the stabilization of stats, park factors from a shortened season, and more.Rundown1:57 How Projections Are Built10:14 Is It Wrong to Combine 2019 and 2020 to Evaluate Performance?13:03 The Difference Between Stability Points and New Skills17:36 Fernando Tatis Jr. and Extreme Skills Growth22:11 Unheralded Risers29:00 The Impact of the Universal DH on Pitching34:00 2020 Park Factors43:29 Early FAAB Considerations Post Trade DeadlineFollow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperFollow Todd on Twitter: @ToddZolaGet 40% off a su Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nando, Ian, and DVR discuss the trade deadline, Deivi Garcia's arrival to the Bronx, deep league pickup targets, Nando's love for Mychal Givens, and more!Rundown3:13 Did We Underestimate Austin Nola?9:24 Impressed by Deivi Garcia13:39 Ian Keeps Dealing16:41 Nando Is All In on Mychal Givens22:16 Cal Quantrill in Cleveland24:54 Under the Radar Pickups From Ian34:17 Are Umpires Giving Luke Voit Extra Calls?37:24 Buying Toronto's Deadline Moves?49:35 Did Marco Gonzales Find a New Level?Follow Nando on Twitter: @nandodifinoFollow Ian on Twitter: @IanKahn4Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRipere-mail: [email protected] (use subject line 'Under the Radar') Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There's less than a month until the end of the MLB season, and just one day until the trade deadline. In other words, these next two waiver periods in fantasy baseball leagues could be the last significantly active ones of the year. Michael Beller and Al Melchior break down this week's wire, with looks at Sixto Sanchez, Tony Gonsolin, José García, and many more players.Rundown1:50 Taijuan Walker to the Blue Jays2:53 Tony Gonsolin Sticks in the Dodgers' Rotation4:43 Sixto Sanchez Shines7:09 Michael Pineda and Tommy Milone9:50 Trevor Rosenthal to Remain the Closer in San Diego?12:18 The Favorite for Saves in Detroit14:10 Closers Appear Safe in the Trade Deadline Discussion16:19 Mitch Moreland Traded to San Diego17:19 José García's Place for the Rest of the Season19:21 Any Interest in Will Craig?21:09 Nick Madrigal is Back23:20 Brandon Belt Swinging a Hot Bat25:55 Drops to Make This WeekFollow Beller on Twitter: @MBellerFollow Al on Twitter: @almelchiorBB Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paul Sporer of Fangraphs joins Michael Beller on this episode of The Athletic Fantasy Baseball Podcast. The guys discuss the MLB trade deadline—and the possible fantasy fallout associated with it—Robbie Grossman's 2020 surge, Jake "Rake" Cronenworth, the benefits of letting go of passivity, and more.Rundown1:44 Talking Trade Candidates, Starting with Gregory Polanco7:00 Betting on Shin-soo Choo11:37 Where Could Mike Minor Go?15:04 Good and Bad Landing Spots for Dylan Bundy18:07 The Best Potential Landing Spot for Tommy La Stella22:41 Trevor Rosenthal a Prime Trade Candidate27:09 Any Closers Who Could Get Traded and Lose Their Value?29:29 Buying Robbie Grossman33:48 A Quick Tim Anderson Tangent37:07 Willing to Buy High on Brandon Lowe?38:49 Rake Cronenworth!40:37 Dylan Carlson for the Remainder of 2020Follow Paul on Twitter: @sporerFollow Beller on Twitter: @MBellerGet 40% off a subscription to The Athletic: theathletic.com/fantasybaseballpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.