BaseballStL

As the calendar turns... Aug 31, 2018

JJ and Mike are back as the Cardinals prepare for the month of September. The guys look back on the month of August and talk about just how phenomenal it was! Oh, and did we mention Mike Shildt is the new Cardinals' manager?? All this and more on this week's episode of the BaseballSTL Podcast!

Kolten Wong: The Once and Future King Aug 23, 2018

JJ and Producer Mike are back! The Cardinals are on fire at the moment and the young guns on the pitching staff are part of the reason why. The guys talk about Jack Flaherty's emergence as a bonafide star as well as the rise of the new Cardinals bullpen. Then, Mike leans back and allows JJ to go off on his favorite human being Kolten Wong. It's worth the listen, folks. All that plus the return of Big City-Big Skinny-Big Kitty-Pride of Slippery Rock Matt Adams, why Ozuna's DL stint could have been the plan all along and of course, Mike goes off about the Oakland A's. Enjoy!

Is this really happening? Aug 16, 2018

The Cardinals are on an honest-to-goodness roll! Eight wins in a row later, this team is right in the playoff hunt. Cardinals writer Brenden Schaeffer joins JJ for a look at how they got here, who is driving the train, and whether or not it's too early to start cheering for the Cubs against teams also fighting for the Wild Card. Also, an examination of the flavor credentials of Matt Carpenter's salsa, and a look at what the heck is going on with Carlos Martinez. Plug in and enjoy!

Goodbye, Tommy Pham Aug 02, 2018

The deadline has come and gone, and the Cardinals are absent some familiar faces. On today's episode, Producer Mike joins JJ to grade the team's deadline moves and look ahead to a critical August. We also say goodbye to Tommy Pham, the biggest personality the team has had in a while. Finally, our intern Raeley joins us on her last day to rant about her beloved Royals.

What are we doing here? Jul 26, 2018

Oh boy what a weird time. The Cardinals have seen historical offense, incredible debuts, no-hitters disrupted by fire alarms and bullpen implosions. So where are we? The Cardinals LOOK like they're playing better, but the results are still the same. The bullpen is largely to blame, but there's some missing offense too. JJ sits down with Producer Mike to talk this bizarre week. Why is Marcell Ozuna still hitting fourth? Should the Cardinals cut ties with Brett Cecil and Greg Holland? What about Dexter Fowler? Was the fire alarm in Cincinnati an inside job?! We get into all of that in more in this week's episode. Sit back, plug in, and enjoy!

Out with the old, in the with the Schildt Jul 19, 2018

Ben Frederickson from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch joins JJ and Producer Mike for this week's episode. The guys discuss the Matheny firing and the Schildt interim-hiring. They also run down a list of potential managerial candidates if the team does not ride with Schildt into next season. That list includes names like Jose Oquendo, Carlos Beltran and Ron Washington (?), All-Star game talk, Josh Hader talk and much, much more all on this week's episode of the Baseball STL Podcast! Enjoy!

The one where we trade Marcell Ozuna Jul 11, 2018

KMOV Sports Reporter Brook Grimsley and KMOV Sports Writer Brenden Schaeffer join JJ and Producer Mike on this week's episode of the Baseball STL Podcast. The gang breaks down the Cardinals up and down west coast/Chicago road trip, the hot hittin', free swingin' Kolten Wong, the Dexter Fowler saga and Mike's brewing hot take that the Reds will finish with a better record than the Cards (he might be an idiot or a genius). Plus, Brenden and JJ propose an interesting trade that involves some BIG names. After all, what would it take to get Nolan Arenado? All this and more in this week's episode of the Baseball STL Podcast!

REBROADCAST: Meet Alex Reyes Jul 05, 2018

With the holiday week, Baseball STL is taking a break from recording. To make it up to you, here's a rebroadcast of our conversation with Alex Reyes, recorded back when he was a minor league phenom and beginning his ascension to the majors. It's a fun look back at his journey from prospect to one of baseball's biggest names. Here's the episode description: Alex Reyes joins the podcast this week along with Double-A pitching instructor Jason Simontacchi and BaseballStL minor league beat reporter Mike Bailey. The group talks about Reyes' journey from New Jersey to the Dominican Republic and into the Cardinal system. With his promotion to Springfield, he's taken another major step in his development. Alex reflects on the work it has taken to get where he is, how his outlook has changed and what his new goals are. Sit back, plug in and enjoy!

Let the good times roll Jun 28, 2018

On this week's episode JJ, Maurice and Mike are breaking down one of the best stretches of Cardinals baseball this season. Numerous Cardinals were off to slow starts this season but some have turned it around. The guys dive into the resurgence of Matt Carpenter and why Cardinals fans (including us) might have panicked too soon. Then, JJ shows why Kolten Wong and Dexter Fowler might slowly be turning the corner. A preview of the final games before the All-Star break, a look at how the American League is extremely top heavy this season and a story about a pitcher who had an unfortunate relief appearance. All this and more in this week's episode of the Baseball STL podcast. Enjoy!

Panic button time? Jun 20, 2018

Maurice, JJ and Producer Mike are back and they are talking about the lackluster week the Cardinals have endured. From the Cubs beating up on the Birds to a heartbreaking loss in Philadelphia, the guys break down the ups and downs of the 2018 Cardinals. The guys introduce a new weekly segment, "The Belt." Which Cardinals player is carrying the team MVP this week in the form of a WWE style belt? All this and more in this week's edition of the BaseballSTL Podcast.

Crab cakes! Jun 14, 2018

KMOV Sports Director Maurice Drummond rejoins J.J. Bailey and producer Mike Ritter for this week's episode breaking down everything from the Cardinals mediocrity against bad teams to Jordan Hicks' elevation to one of the best young relievers in baseball. The guys also talk about the budding 'new bash brothers' pair of Marcell Ozuna and Jose Martinez and preview the Birds' weekend series against the rival Cubbies. Enjoy. BONUS: 2018 is on pace to feature both the best and the worst individual seasons in MLB history. We break them down and ALSO give Maurice a few minutes to rant about his once beloved Orioles, who are enabling incredible crimes against baseball.

A hot mess Jun 07, 2018

The Cardinals got Molina and Martinez back, and instead of a big boost, they played their worst baseball of the season. Lead baseball writer JJ Bailey is joined by KMOV sportswriter Brenden Schaeffer and producer Mike Ritter to talk about the confounding lack of basic baseball fundamentals on display. Later, they discuss surprise studs and who's keeping this machine on the tracks, before diving into the troubling case of Alex Reyes. Finally, the episode wraps up with a look at the lopsided, back-loaded schedule in June. Also: What are the Braves?

Woooooooo! Apr 13, 2018

We're back in action as the Cards head out of town for a long road trip. We talk the Ric Flair invasion plaguing Cardinal games, Fightin' Joe Kelly and the tragic loss of a a beautiful sandwich at Busch Stadium. We also get into the offense, and what to do about this hot, cold, confounding lineup. Sit back, plug in and enjoy!

Welcome home! Apr 05, 2018

The Cards started on the road and split their record 3-3. Now they come home to Busch Stadium and a see of red for the first up close look. Lead baseball writer JJ Bailey and KMOV Sports Director Maurice Drummond take a look at what the Birds have shown so far, what they still need to show and what new questions have popped up. Oh, and the fact Adam Wainwright will start the home opener, but in exchange for Jack Flaherty's roster spot. Sit back, plug in and enjoy!

2018 Season Preview! Mar 28, 2018

Baseball is back! The Cards kick of their season in New York, and people have a lot of questions. Is this team better than last year's? What do we make of the rotation? Which of the new faces are going to mean the most? What about Alex Reyes? WHAT ABOUT ALEX REYES?! Lead baseball writer JJ Bailey and KMOV Sports Director Maurice Drummond return to the podcast booth and tackle all that and more on the season preview.

Back in action Mar 10, 2017

After a hiatus we are back in action! Recorded during a game at Roger Dean Stadium in Jupiter, Florida, JJ sits down with Chris Hrabe of KMOX for a conversation about camp so far. Where are the position battles? Who has been the most eye-catching prospect? What do we make of the rotation this year? All that and a little more form sunny Florida, so sit back, plug in and enjoy!

Breaking down the mound Apr 21, 2016

15 games in, Cardinal fans have started nervously eyeing the starting rotation. What's wrong with Adam Wainwright? Are St. Louis starters taking a step back? What can we expect this season from them? Joe Schwarz from Viva El Birdos joins the podcast this week to talk all things pitching. What does Waino need to fix? How good can Carlos Martinez be? Is this rotation better than last year? We get to the bottom of all the questions and dive into what makes certain pitchers so effective. Sit back, plug in and enjoy!

A rocky start Apr 07, 2016

The Cardinals opened the year with a mighty stumble in the Steel City. JJ and Chris talk about all things good, bad and in between from the first three games, as well as what to watch in the next few series. Sit back, plug in and enjoy!

So what have we learned? Mar 29, 2016

With just hours to go in camp, we take a look at the storylines that took over spring. What happens with the offense after Peralta's injury? Who's on first? What's the big question for the rotation? Any young names that will show up on FSMW this season? We cover all that and more on our final podcast of spring. Sit back, plug in and enjoy!

Bootleg minisode: Surgeries, shortstops and new first basemen Mar 10, 2016

With no wifi and no studio space, the podcast prevails! JJ Bailey and KMOX's Chris Hrabe got together pregame in Port St. Lucie for a quick episode recapping the news of the week. Jhonny Peralta is the big topic, as well what the team will do at shortstop going forward. They also cover the work of Matt Holliday over at first base. Sit back, plug in, and enjoy!

Let the games begin Mar 02, 2016

It's game time in Jupiter! The Cardinals take on FAU to open up exhibition play, before beginning true spring training games. JJ Bailey sits down with KMOX's Chris Hrabe to talk takeaways from camp, which players are becoming popular storylines and why the love affair with the "wacky" Cubs is getting old. Sit back, plug in and enjoy!

The gang's all here Feb 24, 2016

Everybody is here! The Cardinals kicked of their first full-squad workout Tuesday, and we were there to watch the action. JJ Bailey and Maurice Drummond broke down what happened before position players arrived, what the storylines are out of camp and what questions the squad has going forward. Sit back, plug in and enjoy!

Heading North Oct 11, 2015

With the NLDS tied 1-1, the Cardinals head into Chicago for a date with the best pitcher in baseball. But they've been here before and done just fine. JJ and Chris talk the Cards' history of overcoming great pitching in the playoffs, how Chicago's offense has been held in check, and what to expect from Game 3. Sit back, plug in and enjoy!

2015 Awards and Wild Card preview Oct 07, 2015

As we head into the postseason, it's time to hand out some awards for the regular season. JJ and Chris give their Offensive and Defensive MVPs, pick the rotation leader and crown the most valuable reliever. They also dive into the upcoming Wild Card game between the Cubs and Pirates and debate who is a better matchup for the Cards. Sit back, plug in and enjoy!

Postseason Grab Bag Oct 05, 2015

JJ and Chris sit down to talk October for the Cardinals, breaking down the rotation shakeup, what Adam Wainwright means, and how the Redbirds stack up. They also play bouncer at the October Roster Nightclub, taking a crack at who is in and who might be spectating. This episode also features new music from producer Ben Arnold (@Arneypalmermusic). Sit back, plug in and enjoy!

The Manager Thunderdome Sep 03, 2015

The three best teams in the NL are all in one division. Does that mean the Manager of the Year has to come from the Central? We say yes, and decide to break down the case for each candidate: the Cubs' Joe Maddon, the Pirates' Clint Hurdle and St. Louis' Mike Matheny. We've also got a series of columns on the site and app breaking down the choices, as well as who we think is the winner. Sit back, plug in, and let us know what you think!

Don't mess with history Aug 21, 2015

This week, JJ and KMOX's Chris Hrabe sit down to talk Cardinal pitching over a pint. St. Louis' staff has been historic this season, and messing with it would be lunacy. So why is there all this talk about Wainwright's comeback? The two discuss why a return of the ace could complicate things in a serious way, and examine the already complicated playoff pitching situation. Sit back, plug in, take a sip of your own and enjoy!

Meet Alex Reyes Aug 13, 2015

Alex Reyes joins the podcast this week along with Double-A pitching instructor Jason Simontacchi and BaseballStL minor league beat reporter Mike Bailey. The group talks about Reyes' journey from New Jersey to the Dominican Republic and into the Cardinal system. With his promotion to Springfield, he's taken another major step in his development. Alex reflects on the work it has taken to get where he is, how his outlook has changed and what his new goals are. Sit back, plug in and enjoy!

The Carpenter Question Jul 23, 2015

Matt Carpenter, the straw that has stirred the drink for the Cardinal offense in seasons past, has been in a free fall since June. In today's episode, JJ and Chris talk about what that dip means for the offense, as well as whether or not it's time to panic. After that, the two talk a little bit about trade needs before the deadline and go through a quick lightning round of Cardinals questions. Sit back, plug in and enjoy!

Viva El Gallo Jul 08, 2015

KMOX's Chris Hrabe (@chrabe) joins JJ as the two sit down at Ballpark Village to talk Carlos Martinez. The young righty has been dynamite in the first half, winning 9 starts and moving into contention for the All Star Game's Final Vote. In this conversation, the two talk about what changes make Martinez so effective this year and where he ranks among the game's best starters. Sit back and enjoy!

The great Yadi debate Jun 29, 2015

In a two-part episode, we take a look at Yadier Molina as a Hall of Fame candidate. Part one features JJ and KMOX's Chris Hrabe (@chrabe), as the two open with a look at the current Cardinal hot steak. They look at pitcher efficiency and the incredible rotation success. The discussion moves to Molina, and that's when we get to part two (27:00). From there, Nathan Giannini (@nathangiannini) joins by phone. Nate is a statistics scholar who, as an outside observer, makes a case for why Molina isn't there yet when it comes to the Hall of Fame. Sit back, enjoy and let us know what you think!

System Check: How strong are the Cardinals? Jun 24, 2015

Who could replace Yadier Molina? Where are the next rotation members? What kind of ammo do the Cardinals have for a trade? Who is the next great St. Louis batsman? Is there one? This episode looks at the Cardinals from top to bottom, examining the true strength of the St. Louis system. JJ is joined by minor league beat man Mike Bailey and the two talk about who fans should know and what they should worry about. Sit back and listen in!

Rotation, reality, trades and talent Jun 14, 2015

What do you make of the Cardinals? In today's episode, JJ is joined by KMOX's Chris Hrabe to talk all things Redbirds. Jaime Garcia is a revelation, but where does the rotation stand for the rest of the year? Do the Cards need an arm? Who is a trade piece if they do? The two break down the true strength of the St. Louis system, evaluate possible trade pieces and evaluate draft strategy. Throw on some headphones and jump in, because there's plenty to talk about when it comes to the best team in baseball.

The news from first is the worst May 28, 2015

Matt Adams is down for what may be the rest of the season, and the Cardinals are forced to adjust. In this episode, JJ is joined by KMOX's Chris Hrabe, and the two go over the impact of the first baseman's departure. They address the calls for Matt Holliday at first, Stephen Piscotty's promotion and the possible external solutions. The finish with some lightning round questions and appreciation for Bryce Harper.

Meet Stephen Piscotty May 12, 2015

Cardinal prospect Stephen Piscotty joins the podcast as he and JJ talk about what he's trying to at the plate the season, and what he's trying to do long term. The two also chat about how what it's like watching teammates get promoted and what the team talks about when a player gets a trip to St. Louis. Finally, Piscotty talks about his off hours pursuits, including renewable energy, the financial markets and learning guitar. We wrap up with a new segment titled, "Incredible moments in Baseball history."

Here come the Cubs May 04, 2015

The Cubs have proven they're serious in April, inspiring hope in some and worry in others. In today's episode, JJ Bailey sits down with his favorite Cubs fan, Steve Keers (@stevenkeers), to talk about how long this journey has been. Steve was at the infamous Bartman game in 2003, and talks about why he shouldn't get the blame. The two also chat about who each fan base loves and hates on the other team, and whether or not the rivalry is renewed. Plug in, sit back and enjoy!

Now what? Apr 28, 2015

With Adam Wainwright lost for the season to an Achilles tear, the Cardinals must now find a way to solve a big problem. In this episode, hear from GM John Mozeliak's announcement on Wainwright, and what he thinks recovery time might look like. Also, hear how he's hoping to fill the spot (internally or externally)vacated by his staff leader. Then, JJ and Maurice wrap up with a breakdown of the Cardinals' options and what each road may mean for the short and long term. It's all trying to answer the question: Can you still have a winning hand without an ace?

Something old, something new, something steady, some things too few Apr 21, 2015

The Cardinals have started hot, and there's plenty of reasons behind it. In this episode, JJ Bailey sits down with MLB.com Cardinal beat writer Jen Langosch, and the two break down the team. It begins with the curious case of Lance Lynn, a dynamite pitcher who seems to relish being overlooked. Then, to Carlos Martinez, whose new command and discipline have him looking like a seasoned vet. From there the conversation moves to the offense where leadoff man Matt Carpenter is returning to 2013 form. Things wrap with the one concern, a power hitting first baseman who hasn't shown the power. Sit back and dive in!

Haphazard homecoming Apr 15, 2015

The Cardinals fell 5-4 in their St. Louis showcase, doomed by sloppy play and trouble at the plate. In this episode, JJ Bailey talks with KMOV sports reporter Brian Feldman about the takeaways from the home opener. You'll hear from Kolten Wong on his mistakes, and the two cover what might help him prevent them in the future. The episode closes with a little "Buying or Selling," where an idea is thrown out and you decide if you agree or disagree. Up for auction this week: Yadier Molina at the plate, Matt Adams as a power hitter and Carlos Martinez as a long term starter. Throw on some headphones and dive in.

Hurry up and wait Apr 07, 2015

Thanks to a postponement, the BaseballStL crew had Tuesday afternoon to talk Cardinals. In this episode, we wonder about the call to push the game back given Wrigley's rough opener, as well as dive into what we saw Sunday night. Who looks good for the Cards? Who should fans keep an eye on? What might be different this season given the new pieces? How does Heyward like his spot in the order? There may not be a game, but there's always something to talk about.

The boys in blue Apr 04, 2015

Preseason is over, and it's time to get down to business. First on the schedule: the new-look Chicago Cubs. In today's episode, JJ Bailey calls up Cubs writer Tony Andracki (@TonyAndracki23) for a quick preview of the Chicago squad. The two chat about everything from new manager Joe Maddon to the litany of exciting prospects and even the much-maligned Wrigley Field renovation project. As we head toward Opening Night, it's one final primer for the 2015 season.

Calling our shots Apr 03, 2015

It's almost here! With the Cardinals set to open the season in Chicago in just a couple of days, everyone is trying to get their predictions in. That's what we're talking about in today's episode. JJ Bailey sits down with KMOV Sports Director Maurice Drummond to go over the predictions for 2015. How will the NL Central stack up? Who will take the crown and who will slide? What about those new-look Cubs? After that, the two go back and forth on who might be the most important player to the Cardinals this season. It's all part of the prediction series running on the app this week, and one last bit of fun before things get serious. So sit back and enjoy, and let us know your own predictions!0

Time to talk turkey Mar 24, 2015

It's getting interesting down in Florida as the Cardinals are in the final stretch of spring training. In this episode, JJ Bailey calls up Brian Feldman down in Jupiter to get a read on the final spots and answer some questions. Who has the lead in the fifth starter race? What does the outfield look like? Who might we see on the bench, and who is headed for AAA Memphis. It may still be chilly in St. Louis, but Florida is really heating up. Sit back and get all the news from camp.

The manager on the field Mar 16, 2015

If every coach got thrown out of a game, who would you hand the lineup card to? In today's episode, JJ Bailey talks to former MLB catcher and Double-A Springfield manager Dann Bilardello about the leader behind the plate. The two are joined by minor league beat writer Mike Bailey and the conversation breaks down what it takes to make it as a catcher, why Yadier Molina is so good and who may be coming up behind him in the organization. The chat also covers Dann's managing philosophy and how the minors have changed since he went through them. Throw on some headphones and enjoy!

Taking the hill Mar 09, 2015

Today we're talking about pitching. Not the Cardinal rotation, though. This time, we're talking about how to get there. Former Cards pitcher and Double-A pitching instructor Jason Simontacchi joins J.J. on the podcast along with minor league beat writer Mike Bailey, and the three talk about how you shape a promising young arm. How do you look at mechanics? What separates the guys that make it from those who don't? What do you need to know at each level along the way? They also take an in-depth look at some young arms in the system, and evaluate their evolution. Sit back, plug in and enjoy!

A view from the booth Mar 03, 2015

No relationship in sports is more unique than the one between a team and its signature mic man. In today's episode, lead beat writer JJ Bailey calls up Fox Sports Midwest's Cardinal play-by-play man Dan McLaughlin for a chat. The two talk about his journey from whiffle ball announcer to the MLB, as well as the intriguing 2015 Cardinals. Dan even gives his perspective on what the rule changes mean for the future of the game as we enter baseball's new era. Sit back and listen in, and be sure to join the discussion after.

Extra Innings: Wondering about Wainwright Feb 25, 2015

With news breaking out of Florida about Adam Wainwright returning to St. Louis for medical reasons, JJ Bailey called up Maurice Drummond to get the club's reaction and talk about the possibilities. In this short bonus episode, the two talk about John Mozeliak's reaction as well as what the club could do if the worst happens. Is Cole Hamels the answer? Is Jaime Garcia back in the conversation? What about Marco Gonzales? Pop in some headphones and listen in.

Welcome back Feb 24, 2015

It may not feel like it outside, but baseball is back! JJ Bailey calls up Maurice Drummond in Jupiter to talk Cardinals camp, and the two cover all the news from spring training. Jaime Garcia sounds off on his role, Lou Brock gives a take on Kolten Wong's future and we hear from Adam Wainwright on how he views his workload. There's even a new face getting attention from Mike Matheny. Throw on some headphones and head south-- even if it's only for a few minutes.

All the small things Feb 16, 2015

The big splashes may be over, but for a team contending for the division, the devil is in the details. In this episode, lead beat writer JJ Bailey (@TheJJBailey) chats with KMOV sports reporter Brian Feldman (@BFeldman) about the small questions with big impact for the Cardinals. Where does Randal Grichuk fit on the club? Who has the edge in the competition to fill Daniel Descalso's vacant spot? What does Carlos Villanueva's arrival mean for those fighting for a spot in the 'pen? The names involved may not make headlines, but they might decide some games. Throw on some headphones and dive in.

Rotation Consternation Feb 10, 2015

With James Shields headed to San Diego, the last of the big free agent pitchers is off the market. Where does that leave the St. Louis rotation? Lead beat writer JJ Bailey calls up KMOX's Chris Hrabe (@chrabe) and the two take a look at the Cardinal pitching situation as well as why adding a big pitcher was more complicated than it may have seemed.

Happy vs. Healthy Jan 28, 2015

In this episode, lead beat writer JJ Bailey sits down with KMOV Sports Director Maurice Drummond and the two are joined by writer Mike Bailey via phone. The three go over a big challenge facing the Cardinals this season: How to avoid overusing their star veterans while still getting the most from them. The conversation focuses on Adam Wainwright, Yadier Molina and Matt Holliday, with some audio from Winter Warm-Up. Toss on some headphones and dive in.

Let's talk about Jason Heyward Jan 23, 2015

In this episode of the BaseballStL Podcast, lead beat writer J.J. Bailey sits down with KMOV Sports Director Maurice Drummond to talk all things Jason Heyward. What was the first impression they got at Winter Warm-Up? Where does he fit in the lineup? What are the chances the Cardinals can keep him after this year? Why did Mike Matheny give him number 22? The two touch on all that and a bit more, so throw on some headphones and dive into the discussion.

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