Brett Rutherford

Ashley MacLennan's worlds collide in a first ever Bless You Boys/D Rays Bay mashup podcast. It's been a heck of a busy couple weeks getting prepped for the season, so for once, we kept a podcast to a half hour format. We may try to do these short, targeted pods a little more often this year, but our real jobs and running the blogs keep us busy, and I've learned not to make too many promises.On this one, Brett Rutherford from the DRaysBay podcast network joins Ashley, who writes and edits for both sites, among a million other gigs, and BYB managing editor Brandon Day for a chat about Austin Meadows, Isaac Paredes, and the Rays chances this year in the always tough AL East. Thanks as always for joining us, for reading Bless You Boys, and for being part of the fantastic Tigers' fanbase. We're going to have a fun year, come what may... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ashley MacLennan's worlds collide in a first ever Bless You Boys/D Rays Bay mashup podcast. It's been a heck of a busy couple weeks getting prepped for the season, so for once, we kept a podcast to a half hour format. We may try to do these short, targeted pods a little more often this year, but our real jobs and running the blogs keep us busy, and I've learned not to make too many promises.On this one, Brett Rutherford from the DRaysBay podcast network joins Ashley, who writes and edits for both sites, among a million other gigs, and BYB managing editor Brandon Day for a chat about Austin Meadows, Isaac Paredes, and the Rays chances this year in the always tough AL East. Thanks as always for joining us, for reading Bless You Boys, and for being part of the fantastic Tigers' fanbase. We're going to have a fun year, come what may... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast 108: Talking trades with Brett Rutherford of DRaysBay

Well it certainly looked bleak the past few weeks, but we got there in the end. Major League Baseball and the MLBPA union have a new collective bargaining agreement, and baseball is back on the menu. Ashley MacLennan joins Brandon Day for a quick reaction pod to the day's events. We'll look back at the contentious negotiations, the tactics and mistakes that led us to the brink of losing part of the season, and the deal that finally emerged as we and our baseball writing brethren and the fans followed along in real time on social media. We'll conclude with a look at where the Tigers stand as free agency re-opens, and consider what work remains to put a real contender on the field in April. Thanks for hanging in there, and thanks for joining us for a little chat after a day that left us both elated and drained. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Well it certainly looked bleak the past few weeks, but we got there in the end. Major League Baseball and the MLBPA union have a new collective bargaining agreement, and baseball is back on the menu. Ashley MacLennan joins Brandon Day for a quick reaction pod to the day's events. We'll look back at the contentious negotiations, the tactics and mistakes that led us to the brink of losing part of the season, and the deal that finally emerged as we and our baseball writing brethren and the fans followed along in real time on social media. We'll conclude with a look at where the Tigers stand as free agency re-opens, and consider what work remains to put a real contender on the field in April. Thanks for hanging in there, and thanks for joining us for a little chat after a day that left us both elated and drained. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast 107 - Major League Baseball is back from the brink

Trevor Hooth

Trevor Hooth writes for Prospects Live, one of the best public scouting sites available, as well as for Bless You Boys. He returns to the podcast this week in the wake of our new top 30 ranking of the Tigers' farm system.This is a fairly long one, as Trevor and I haven't talked other than via chat for quite a while. There is a lot to to discuss. The Tigers system is going to fall off hard when Riley Greene, our number one for the Tigers, and Spencer Torkelson reach the major leagues. However, there are still some talented players with upside, led by 2021 first round pick Jackson Jobe, and then a much better quality of depth pieces than this system has seen in forever. The top shelf prospects may be few and far between if the Tigers can't draft well outside the top ten, but there remains a pretty good supporting cast if the upgrades to the player development leadership and coaches goes as hoped. We spent the first 40 minutes talking about the league and then the Tigers improved circumstances, overhauled player development system, and recent draft history. Then we get into the Tigers farm system specifically, starting with Riley Greene and Spencer Torkelson, at the 50:00 mark. Our individual profiles of Tigers prospects will continue until mid-February, when, with luck and a new CBA, we'll still get a semi-normal spring training. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trevor Hooth writes for Prospects Live, one of the best public scouting sites available, as well as for Bless You Boys. He returns to the podcast this week in the wake of our new top 30 ranking of the Tigers' farm system.This is a fairly long one, as Trevor and I haven't talked other than via chat for quite a while. There is a lot to to discuss. The Tigers system is going to fall off hard when Riley Greene, our number one for the Tigers, and Spencer Torkelson reach the major leagues. However, there are still some talented players with upside, led by 2021 first round pick Jackson Jobe, and then a much better quality of depth pieces than this system has seen in forever. The top shelf prospects may be few and far between if the Tigers can't draft well outside the top ten, but there remains a pretty good supporting cast if the upgrades to the player development leadership and coaches goes as hoped. We spent the first 40 minutes talking about the league and then the Tigers improved circumstances, overhauled player development system, and recent draft history. Then we get into the Tigers farm system specifically, starting with Riley Greene and Spencer Torkelson, at the 50:00 mark. Our individual profiles of Tigers prospects will continue until mid-February, when, with luck and a new CBA, we'll still get a semi-normal spring training. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast 106: Tigers farm system discussion with Trevor Hooth

Thanks for joining us again. Brandon Day and Ashley MacLennan return to talk Javy Báez, what he means for the Detroit Tigers' future, and how to separate the player from what his contract says about Chris Ilitch and Al Avila's plans. We'll also look at where the Tigers' stand as far as potential playoff contention and why they've arguably had the best offseason of any team. From there, we'll move to far less entertaining matters and talk labor strife between players and owners, the bad blood between the parties after a lot of league shenanigans in recent years, and why these negotiations will look and be reported far differently than the last major battle in 1994. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Thanks for joining us again. Brandon Day and Ashley MacLennan return to talk Javy Báez, what he means for the Detroit Tigers' future, and how to separate the player from what his contract says about Chris Ilitch and Al Avila's plans. We'll also look at where the Tigers' stand as far as potential playoff contention and why they've arguably had the best offseason of any team. From there, we'll move to far less entertaining matters and talk labor strife between players and owners, the bad blood between the parties after a lot of league shenanigans in recent years, and why these negotiations will look and be reported far differently than the last major battle in 1994. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast 105: Javy brings the magic, MLB brings the pain

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast 104: Setting the stage for the offseason

John Stolnis, Kris Willis and Ashley MacLennon set the table for the World Series showdown between the Atlanta Braves and Houston Astros!Presented by T-Mobile Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John Stolnis, Kris Willis and Ashley MacLennon set the table for the World Series showdown between the Atlanta Braves and Houston Astros! Presented by T-Mobile Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

SB Nation's 2021 World Series Preview - presented by T-Mobile

Talent from all around SB Nation come together to preview the MLB AL Playoffs as John Stolnis, Ashley MacLennon and Andrew Mearns debate all the biggest topics and make their predictions!Presented by T-Mobile Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Talent from all around SB Nation come together to preview the MLB AL Playoffs as John Stolnis, Ashley MacLennon and Andrew Mearns debate all the biggest topics and make their predictions! Presented by T-Mobile Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

SB Nation's MLB AL Playoff Preview - Presented by T-Mobile

Welcome back folks. We're firing up the pod again as the season winds down in preparation for a busy offseason, and we've got some big questions to answer. We got a lot of responses to our call for questions, but four main themes emerged. So rather than going question by question, we're just grouping it all under four main questions, and host Brandon Day will take them all on in turn. Who is Ryan Garko, the Tigers new VP of Player Development, and does this feel like a good hire? Who are the Tigers likely to send to the Arizona Fall League in October? Were the Tigers lucky this year, or just pretty good? Are there players who seem ripe for regression? In short, how stable is this 2021 foundation to build on? What should the Tigers attitude be toward free agency this offseason, and how would you go about ranking positions of need and then filling them?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome back folks. We're firing up the pod again as the season winds down in preparation for a busy offseason, and we've got some big questions to answer. We got a lot of responses to our call for questions, but four main themes emerged. So rather than going question by question, we're just grouping it all under four main questions, and host Brandon Day will take them all on in turn.<ol> <li>Who is Ryan Garko, the Tigers new VP of Player Development, and does this feel like a good hire?</li> <li>Who are the Tigers likely to send to the Arizona Fall League in October?</li> <li>Were the Tigers lucky this year, or just pretty good? Are there players who seem ripe for regression? In short, how stable is this 2021 foundation to build on?</li> <li>What should the Tigers attitude be toward free agency this offseason, and how would you go about ranking positions of need and then filling them?</li> </ol> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast 103: Stretch Drive Q&A

John Kruk

MLB great John Kruk joins Sam Wilson, John Stolnis, Brady Klopfer and a host of community guests from around SB Nation to watch the 2021 MLB Home Run Derby! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

MLB great John Kruk joins Sam Wilson, John Stolnis, Brady Klopfer and a host of community guests from around SB Nation to watch the 2021 MLB Home Run Derby! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

SB Nation's 2021 MLB Home Run Derby LIVE w/John Kruk - Presented by T-Mobile

SB Nation’s all-star cast (Sam Wilson, John Stolnis, Eric Stephen and guest Jeremy Brener) breaks down everything that happened in the 1st round of the 2021 MLB Draft! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SB Nation’s all-star cast (Sam Wilson, John Stolnis, Eric Stephen and guest Jeremy Brener) breaks down everything that happened in the 1st round of the 2021 MLB Draft! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

SB Nation’s 2021 MLB Draft Recap – Presented by T-Mobile

The official home for audio programming from Bless You Boys, SB Nation's community for fans of the Detroit Tigers.

Great For Tiger Fans

Interesting Tigers chat, but the volume fluctuations are really bad.

Talk into the mic, please

Bless You Boys: for Detroit Tigers fans

Brandon Inge

	Al and Kurt get self-righteous over PEDs, ponder the Tigers' contingency plans and talk Jose Veras on this week's Bless You Boys Podcast.Topics:Biogenesis: Ryan Braun cops a plea, Alex Rodriguez the next big target, MLB looks worse by the day.	Jhonny Peralta: Questions abound - Will the Tigers' shortstop be suspended? If so, would he serve it right away or appeal? What could the Tigers' plan be if the worse case scenario happens?	Hall of Fame ceremonies: The BBWAA didn't vote anyone living into the Hall, But current members did let loose with sanctimonious pontificating over steroids, ignoring baseball's seamy past in other areas.	Rob Fick: The former Tiger admits he took PEDs. Apparently, they didn't help him on the field, just get back to it.	Hello Jose Veras! Meet the former Astros closer, now the	Tigers' new setup man.	Goodbye, well, someone: Should Al Alburquerque be worried?	Any other deadline moves on tap? Say a left-handed bat?	Old folks home for former Tigers: Welcome to Triple-A Toledo Jeremy Bonderman and Jair Jurrjens.	Justin Verlander, Prince Fielder and long-term deals: Albert Pujols' struggles, huge contract, and injury drawing attention to the Tigers' own monster contracts.	Despite everything, the Tigers are in great shape: Winners of 7-of-8, season high 14 games over .500, three game lead over the Indians and doing so while overcoming injuries to Miguel Cabrera, Omar Infante, Torii Hunter, Darin Downs, Octavio Dotel along with a slumping Verlander and Fielder.RIP James Van Horn, aka Eat 'em up Tigers Guy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Al and Kurt get self-righteous over PEDs, ponder the Tigers' contingency plans and talk Jose Veras on this week's Bless You Boys Podcast. Topics: Biogenesis: Ryan Braun cops a plea, Alex Rodriguez the next big target, MLB looks worse by the day. 	Jhonny Peralta: Questions abound - Will the Tigers' shortstop be suspended? If so, would he serve it right away or appeal? What could the Tigers' plan be if the worse case scenario happens? 	Hall of Fame ceremonies: The BBWAA didn't vote anyone living into the Hall, But current members did let loose with sanctimonious pontificating over steroids, ignoring baseball's seamy past in other areas. 	Rob Fick: The former Tiger admits he took PEDs. Apparently, they didn't help him on the field, just get back to it. 	Hello Jose Veras! Meet the former Astros closer, now the 	Tigers' new setup man. 	Goodbye, well, someone: Should Al Alburquerque be worried? 	Any other deadline moves on tap? Say a left-handed bat? 	Old folks home for former Tigers: Welcome to Triple-A Toledo Jeremy Bonderman and Jair Jurrjens. 	Justin Verlander, Prince Fielder and long-term deals: Albert Pujols' struggles, huge contract, and injury drawing attention to the Tigers' own monster contracts. 	Despite everything, the Tigers are in great shape: Winners of 7-of-8, season high 14 games over .500, three game lead over the Indians and doing so while overcoming injuries to Miguel Cabrera, Omar Infante, Torii Hunter, Darin Downs, Octavio Dotel along with a slumping Verlander and Fielder.RIP James Van Horn, aka Eat 'em up Tigers Guy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

Bless You Boys Podcast 81: Can Brandon Inge play shortstop?

Nick Castellanos

With the Tigers stumbling toward the break, the editorial staff assesses their chances of a profitable trading season and an interesting second half. The Tigers are scuffling, and too many players they hoped to trade are going in the wrong direction.Jordan Zimmermann is suddenly pitching some of the best baseball of his career despite the endless plague of injuries.How will the Tigers fill out their pitching staff in the second half if they move multiple starters?Joe Jimenez is an All-Star, and Nick Castellanos isn't, and we're kind of alright with that.All-Star selections always seem to whiff on a few players, and Chris Archer and Justin Verlander have some ideas for improvements. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the Tigers stumbling toward the break, the editorial staff assesses their chances of a profitable trading season and an interesting second half.  The Tigers are scuffling, and too many players they hoped to trade are going in the wrong direction.Jordan Zimmermann is suddenly pitching some of the best baseball of his career despite the endless plague of injuries.How will the Tigers fill out their pitching staff in the second half if they move multiple starters?Joe Jimenez is an All-Star, and Nick Castellanos isn't, and we're kind of alright with that.All-Star selections always seem to whiff on a few players, and Chris Archer and Justin Verlander have some ideas for improvements. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast Episode 25: You're the All-Star of our Hearts, Nick Castellanos

There are a few minor bits of news to discuss as we reach Thanksgiving, but our listeners/readers responded to the call with plenty of good questions, so we dive right into our mailbag in this episode. Hopefully we have a few good answers.Topics range from the Rule 5 draft and free agency to recent Tigers history, Comerica Park's dimensions, and much more. Thanks to BYB's community for reading our work, listening to the podcasts, and always participating in smart, lively discussion on the site.On behalf of the whole staff, we wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There are a few minor bits of news to discuss as we reach Thanksgiving, but our listeners/readers responded to the call with plenty of good questions, so we dive right into our mailbag in this episode. Hopefully we have a few good answers.Topics range from the Rule 5 draft and free agency to recent Tigers history, Comerica Park's dimensions, and much more. Thanks to BYB's community for reading our work, listening to the podcasts, and always participating in smart, lively discussion on the site.On behalf of the whole staff, we wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast 64: Minor moves and a Thanksgiving mailbag

Lou Whitaker

Bill Freehan

Ashley and Brandon return to touch on all things Tigers, except that no one really wants to touch the Tigers right now.Ashley rants about MLB's weird resistance to the future regarding the All-Star game blackout.We look back at the All-Star game and the many ways in which it was a microcosm of major league baseball writ large.The Tigers are struggling along, and while their appear to be a lot of trade candidates, the market continues to look a little bloated with options to expect much in return.We look around the league at team's position heading toward the deadline.Listener questionsAlan Trammell and Jack Morris are about to be inducted into Cooperstown and it's awesome. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ashley and Brandon return to touch on all things Tigers, except that no one really wants to touch the Tigers right now. Ashley rants about MLB's weird resistance to the future regarding the All-Star game blackout.We look back at the All-Star game and the many ways in which it was a microcosm of major league baseball writ large.The Tigers are struggling along, and while their appear to be a lot of trade candidates, the market continues to look a little bloated with options to expect much in return.We look around the league at team's position heading toward the deadline.Listener questionsAlan Trammell and Jack Morris are about to be inducted into Cooperstown and it's awesome. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

Bless You Boys Podcast 26: Lou Whitaker and Bill Freehan will be avenged

Nicholas Castellanos

Shane Greene

Today we welcome in BYB prospect writer and draft guru Jay Markle in the aftermath after a modest but productive day for the Tigers' organization. GM Al Avila didn't find the deal he needed for Matt Boyd, but did a solid job collecting some pieces to add to the organization. The Tigers weren't fancy, or particularly aggressive, but results are what matter.We would've like more from the Braves for closer Shane Greene as he was probably the most valuable reliever traded over the past week. There are some minor injury concerns and a velocity dip with LHP Joey Wentz, but he's also a very nice pitching prospect, and still quite young. And by taking a couple of solid project arms from the Chicago Cubs for Nick Castellanos, the Tigers played to their stronger side in player development and continue to gather a talented and deep crop of pitchers into the farm system. I think the reviews on the return for a rental player with a really limited market have rightly been pretty positive. We'll chat about the Tigers moves, the move they didn't make, and take a look at a hectic but somewhat unsatisfying trading deadline. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today we welcome in BYB prospect writer and draft guru Jay Markle in the aftermath after a modest but productive day for the Tigers' organization. GM Al Avila didn't find the deal he needed for Matt Boyd, but did a solid job collecting some pieces to add to the organization. The Tigers weren't fancy, or particularly aggressive, but results are what matter.We would've like more from the Braves for closer Shane Greene as he was probably the most valuable reliever traded over the past week. There are some minor injury concerns and a velocity dip with LHP Joey Wentz, but he's also a very nice pitching prospect, and still quite young. And by taking a couple of solid project arms from the Chicago Cubs for Nick Castellanos, the Tigers played to their stronger side in player development and continue to gather a talented and deep crop of pitchers into the farm system. I think the reviews on the return for a rental player with a really limited market have rightly been pretty positive. We'll chat about the Tigers moves, the move they didn't make, and take a look at a hectic but somewhat unsatisfying trading deadline. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast 2019 Trade Deadline Edition : Thanks and good luck to Nicholas Castellanos and Shane Greene

Manny Machado

Brandon and Ashley do their best to deliver the goods in the wake of spring training opening, and the Padres' monster acquistion of Manny Machado. The path was twisty, but we examined the minor news out of spring camp, argued one last time for another free agent addition, and answered listener questions. We also digressed into serial killers for some reason.Camp is underway and so far, Daniel Norris, Michael Fulmer, and Miguel Cabrera are obviously in the best shape of their lives.Casey Mize is making a good impression, as are the Tigers investments in technology.We consider the Tigers' Opening Day starter, and whether there isn't still a move that makes sense for them.The Manny Machado deal and its impact on the game.Listener questions  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Brandon and Ashley do their best to deliver the goods in the wake of spring training opening, and the Padres' monster acquistion of Manny Machado. The path was twisty, but we examined the minor news out of spring camp, argued one last time for another free agent addition, and answered listener questions. We also digressed into serial killers for some reason. Camp is underway and so far, Daniel Norris, Michael Fulmer, and Miguel Cabrera are obviously in the best shape of their lives.Casey Mize is making a good impression, as are the Tigers investments in technology.We consider the Tigers' Opening Day starter, and whether there isn't still a move that makes sense for them.The Manny Machado deal and its impact on the game.Listener questions   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast 36: Manny Machado delivers the goods

Jay Markle

We’re back with a special edition on the state of the Detroit Tigers farm system. Joined by BYB prospect analyst Jay Markle, we’ll run through a host of prospect topics in this one. Also, I need to apologize in advance for a little racket at times caused by a grouchy graphics card. The sound quality has improved a lot since we started the podcast up again, but we're still working with a time and resource crunch. Thanks for your understanding.First, we take a look at FanGraphs recent top 39 list for the Tigers system and discuss what surprised us and stood out in their evaluations. We’ll also look at some of the published data they have available and some hints that the Tigers are making some progress in using data to improve their pitchers.We’ll take turns offering up players we’re higher or lower on than FanGraphs or the rest of our staff seem to be.Several players are in a position where at least a modest breakout is required this season. We’ll discuss who really needs a good year to stay on track in the system, and which of the 2019 draft class will move fastest.Finally we’ll talk a bit about the state of the organization, the future and how to get there successfully, and positive and negative signs from the Tigers’ front office.This will be Jay’s last podcast with us before taking on his new role over at Motor City Bengals, and we’d like to thank him for all his hard work over the past four years. We’ll also miss him personally, but the baseball writing community remains tight knit and ever changing, so perhaps this isn’t Jay’s last rodeo with us here at BYB. Check out his work over at MCB coming in February, and as always we’d also like to recommend our friends over at Tigers Minor League Report for more excellent prospect coverage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’re back with a special edition on the state of the Detroit Tigers farm system. Joined by BYB prospect analyst Jay Markle, we’ll run through a host of prospect topics in this one. Also, I need to apologize in advance for a little racket at times caused by a grouchy graphics card. The sound quality has improved a lot since we started the podcast up again, but we're still working with a time and resource crunch. Thanks for your understanding.First, we take a look at FanGraphs recent top 39 list for the Tigers system and discuss what surprised us and stood out in their evaluations. We’ll also look at some of the published data they have available and some hints that the Tigers are making some progress in using data to improve their pitchers.We’ll take turns offering up players we’re higher or lower on than FanGraphs or the rest of our staff seem to be.Several players are in a position where at least a modest breakout is required this season. We’ll discuss who really needs a good year to stay on track in the system, and which of the 2019 draft class will move fastest.Finally we’ll talk a bit about the state of the organization, the future and how to get there successfully, and positive and negative signs from the Tigers’ front office.This will be Jay’s last podcast with us before taking on his new role over at Motor City Bengals, and we’d like to thank him for all his hard work over the past four years. We’ll also miss him personally, but the baseball writing community remains tight knit and ever changing, so perhaps this isn’t Jay’s last rodeo with us here at BYB. Check out his work over at MCB coming in February, and as always we’d also like to recommend our friends over at Tigers Minor League Report for more excellent prospect coverage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast 68 - Tigers farm system chat with Jay Markle

Ashley and Brandon return to discuss the week in Tigers baseball, for better and for worse.Daniel Norris is on the way back and Christin Stewart should be coming with him.Matt Manning looks like one of the better pitching prospects in the game after a fantastic 2018.The James McCann era nears its end, and we aren't sad about it.Women's baseball at the highest level has been pretty awesome.On the art of becoming a fan favorite.Baseball is becoming too insular and inaccessible for its own good. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ashley and Brandon return to discuss the week in Tigers baseball, for better and for worse. Daniel Norris is on the way back and Christin Stewart should be coming with him.Matt Manning looks like one of the better pitching prospects in the game after a fantastic 2018.The James McCann era nears its end, and we aren't sad about it.Women's baseball at the highest level has been pretty awesome.On the art of becoming a fan favorite.Baseball is becoming too insular and inaccessible for its own good. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

Bless You Boys Podcast 28: Roster expansion as the season enters the homestretch

Host Brandon Day and Bless You Boys prospect writer Jay Markle get into reviewing the 2019 Tigers farm system. This is going to be a two part episode, with each running roughly an hour, but it still feels like we barely scratched the surface. This episode starts with an overview of the system, but we'll heavily focus on the top pitching prospects, and save the position players for part two.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Host Brandon Day and Bless You Boys prospect writer Jay Markle get into reviewing the 2019 Tigers farm system. This is going to be a two part episode, with each running roughly an hour, but it still feels like we barely scratched the surface. This episode starts with an overview of the system, but we'll heavily focus on the top pitching prospects, and save the position players for part two.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast 58: 2019 Detroit Tigers farm report  -Part One

After a road trip that saw the Detroit Tigers finally flex a little offensive muscle, the club returns home to meet up with Justin Verlander and the Houston Astros. Some of the young guys are contributing, and we'll take a look at their vital signs, as well as examining and speculating irresponsibly about the Rod Allen/Mario Impemba kerfuffle.The story of the day is the reported scuffle between the long-time broadcast duo. Just know that the chair is not the chair.The Tigers have finally found a bit of power as players like Mikie Mahtook, Niko Goodrum, Dawel Lugo, and Ronny Rodriguez have brought a spark to a miserable lineup.Daniel Norris is back and we’re happy.Pennant races are shaping up with a wild finish expected in the National League.Shohei Ohtani is amazing, Sean Doolittle and Ian Kinsler are fun, and sometimes amazing.The service time games continue to look bad, and may herald part of a contentious collective bargaining agreement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a road trip that saw the Detroit Tigers finally flex a little offensive muscle, the club returns home to meet up with Justin Verlander and the Houston Astros. Some of the young guys are contributing, and we'll take a look at their vital signs, as well as examining and speculating irresponsibly about the Rod Allen/Mario Impemba kerfuffle. The story of the day is the reported scuffle between the long-time broadcast duo. Just know that the chair is not the chair.The Tigers have finally found a bit of power as players like Mikie Mahtook, Niko Goodrum, Dawel Lugo, and Ronny Rodriguez have brought a spark to a miserable lineup.Daniel Norris is back and we’re happy.Pennant races are shaping up with a wild finish expected in the National League.Shohei Ohtani is amazing, Sean Doolittle and Ian Kinsler are fun, and sometimes amazing.The service time games continue to look bad, and may herald part of a contentious collective bargaining agreement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast Episode 29: The Boys are Back in Motown

Brandon and Ashley return to gnaw on a meager diet of Tigers news. The Tigers and their gear are making their way south for spring camp, and pitchers and catchers are set to report in less than a week. The free agent market is still quiet, the Tigers still need a catcher, and Nick Castellanos doesn't seem to be going anywhere. We touched on these and a host of other topics.Truck Day brings warm vibes.The Tigers ended the Big D experiment.Danny McClain's Cy Young award went to auction, and Kirk Gibson is now a special assistant to Al Avila.Nick Castellanos is primed for a good year.Niko Goodrum needs to seize his opportunity.Stop this madness and sign a catcher, Tigers.Keith Law isn't impressed with the Tigers farm system.Arbitration wins, and a record arb eligible one-year deal for Nolan Arenado may point the way beyond the free agent freeze. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Brandon and Ashley return to gnaw on a meager diet of Tigers news. The Tigers and their gear are making their way south for spring camp, and pitchers and catchers are set to report in less than a week. The free agent market is still quiet, the Tigers still need a catcher, and Nick Castellanos doesn't seem to be going anywhere. We touched on these and a host of other topics. Truck Day brings warm vibes.The Tigers ended the Big D experiment.Danny McClain's Cy Young award went to auction, and Kirk Gibson is now a special assistant to Al Avila.Nick Castellanos is primed for a good year.Niko Goodrum needs to seize his opportunity.Stop this madness and sign a catcher, Tigers.Keith Law isn't impressed with the Tigers farm system.Arbitration wins, and a record arb eligible one-year deal for Nolan Arenado may point the way beyond the free agent freeze. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast 35: Truck Day means we're a week away

In the second part of our overview of the 2019 season in the Tigers farm system, Bless You Boys prospect writer Jay Markle and host Brandon Day take a look at the position players. The situation remains somewhat grim despite a few bright spots. We discuss Riley Greene, Isaac Paredes, and the crunch of mediocre outfield prospects destined for Toledo. Can Parker Meadows or Wenceel Perez take the next step into guyhood? Should we be panicky about Daz Cameron's down year? The system has a number of interesting positional prospects, but very little of the top tier talent they need to power a future contending team. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the second part of our overview of the 2019 season in the Tigers farm system, Bless You Boys prospect writer Jay Markle and host Brandon Day take a look at the position players. The situation remains somewhat grim despite a few bright spots. We discuss Riley Greene, Isaac Paredes, and the crunch of mediocre outfield prospects destined for Toledo. Can Parker Meadows or Wenceel Perez take the next step into guyhood? Should we be panicky about Daz Cameron's down year? The system has a number of interesting positional prospects, but very little of the top tier talent they need to power a future contending team. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast 59: 2019 Tigers farm report with Jay Markle - Part  Two

Emily Waldon

We're back with a special guest, as Emily Waldon of The Athletic Detroit and Baseball America joins host Brandon Day for a conversation on her time scouting the Arizona Fall League, the Tigers roster crunch at Triple-A, and the minor league restructuring proposals MLB has put forward.-We check in on Daz Cameron, Anthony Castro and some of the action from the Arizona Fall League.-2020 is going to be crunch time in the upper minors within the Tigers system.-Rob Manfred says it's his way or the highway, and surprisingly everyone is quite upset about his confrontational posture and desire to contract the minor leagues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're back with a special guest, as Emily Waldon of The Athletic Detroit and Baseball America joins host Brandon Day for a conversation on her time scouting the Arizona Fall League, the Tigers roster crunch at Triple-A, and the minor league restructuring proposals MLB has put forward.-We check in on Daz Cameron, Anthony Castro and some of the action from the Arizona Fall League.-2020 is going to be crunch time in the upper minors within the Tigers system.-Rob Manfred says it's his way or the highway, and surprisingly everyone is quite upset about his confrontational posture and desire to contract the minor leagues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast 63 - Arizona Fall League and Minor League Restructuring with Emily Waldon

As the initial spring training glow gives way to the dog days of Grapefruit League play, we take the Tigers temperature and look over some of news, and the perennial "best shape of their lives" stories from Lakeland. But with Opening Day just three weeks away, there should be a lot more news as cuts start coming in waves, and more games are televised. Right now, highlights from games are just whetting the appetite for opportunities to sit down a watch a few hours of Tigers baseball on another frigid day in the north.Casey Mize has impressed.Miguel Cabrera has been healthy and swinging the bat well.Daniel Norris and Michael Fulmer, among others, are a little scary so far.Bryce Harper finally signed on with the Phillies and ended our long winter's vigil.We go off the rails with our weekly fixation on Trevor Bauer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the initial spring training glow gives way to the dog days of Grapefruit League play, we take the Tigers temperature and look over some of news, and the perennial "best shape of their lives" stories from Lakeland. But with Opening Day just three weeks away, there should be a lot more news as cuts start coming in waves, and more games are televised. Right now, highlights from games are just whetting the appetite for opportunities to sit down a watch a few hours of Tigers baseball on another frigid day in the north. Casey Mize has impressed.Miguel Cabrera has been healthy and swinging the bat well.Daniel Norris and Michael Fulmer, among others, are a little scary so far.Bryce Harper finally signed on with the Phillies and ended our long winter's vigil.We go off the rails with our weekly fixation on Trevor Bauer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast 37: Halfway to Opening Day

Ashley and Brandon fire up a podcast that’s been sitting out in frigid temperatures undriven for a month. Unfortunately, there is still precious little warmth emitting from the hot stove to help us along. We took a look back at the Tigers offseason, the options they have remaining this offseason, and the chilly relations between free agents and teams around the league.The Tigers signed Jordy Mercer and Tyson Ross, and that’s fine. More please.Are the Tigers going to do anything else, and other cries for help.Will Nicholas Castellanos be traded or has the ship already sailed on those possibilities?Matt Shepherd takes over as the Tigers new play-by-play man.State of free agency.More complaints about how the Tigers could benefit from picking up a few more free agents.Listener questionsIntro: “Let’s Save Tony Orlando’s House” - Yo La Tengo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ashley and Brandon fire up a podcast that’s been sitting out in frigid temperatures undriven for a month. Unfortunately, there is still precious little warmth emitting from the hot stove to help us along. We took a look back at the Tigers offseason, the options they have remaining this offseason, and the chilly relations between free agents and teams around the league. The Tigers signed Jordy Mercer and Tyson Ross, and that’s fine. More please.Are the Tigers going to do anything else, and other cries for help.Will Nicholas Castellanos be traded or has the ship already sailed on those possibilities?Matt Shepherd takes over as the Tigers new play-by-play man.State of free agency.More complaints about how the Tigers could benefit from picking up a few more free agents.Listener questions Intro: “Let’s Save Tony Orlando’s House” - Yo La Tengo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast 33: Ok we're ready for more baseball now, please

 In the latest Bless You Boys Podcast, Kurt and Al are joined by the newest member of the BYB staff, HookSlide. The gang looks back at the past week of Tigers baseball, ask why fans hate Andy Dirks, call out Buster Olney and make fun of Justin Verlander conspiracy theorists. Bless You Boys Podcast 83 has a running time of 1:11 and features HookSlide, Kurt Mensching and Al Beaton. Also, a very special appearance from Fat Albert. Topics include:  The Tigers lose three of four to the Athletics, yet their division lead increases by 1/2 game.  Would an A's sweep really have been that big a deal in the big scheme of things?  The Indians arrive for a three game series, whilre Detroit fans are apparently scared to death the Tigers are going to collapse at any time.  More of the same from Justin Verlander, he's consistently inconsistent.  After Miguel Cabrera, who is the Tigers' most valuable hitter?  Why has Andy Dirks become the fan base's whipping boy?  Who gets called up when rosters expand?  Tigers send five to the Arizona Fall League.  ESPN's Buster Olney throws crap at wall to determine the Tigers are in the Robinson Cano free agent sweepstakes.  Young stud pitcher’s elbow blows up, Matt Harvey becomes example number infinity:  According to Forbes, the Astros are either the most profitable team ever, or they aren't.  Yasiel Puig gets benched twice by Don Mattingly for "disciplinary reasons." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the latest Bless You Boys Podcast, Kurt and Al are joined by the newest member of the BYB staff, HookSlide. The gang looks back at the past week of Tigers baseball, ask why fans hate Andy Dirks, call out Buster Olney and make fun of Justin Verlander conspiracy theorists. Bless You Boys Podcast 83 has a running time of 1:11 and features HookSlide, Kurt Mensching and Al Beaton. Also, a very special appearance from Fat Albert. Topics include: The Tigers lose three of four to the Athletics, yet their division lead increases by 1/2 game. Would an A's sweep really have been that big a deal in the big scheme of things? The Indians arrive for a three game series, whilre Detroit fans are apparently scared to death the Tigers are going to collapse at any time. More of the same from Justin Verlander, he's consistently inconsistent. After Miguel Cabrera, who is the Tigers' most valuable hitter? Why has Andy Dirks become the fan base's whipping boy? Who gets called up when rosters expand? Tigers send five to the Arizona Fall League. ESPN's Buster Olney throws crap at wall to determine the Tigers are in the Robinson Cano free agent sweepstakes. Young stud pitcher’s elbow blows up, Matt Harvey becomes example number infinity: According to Forbes, the Astros are either the most profitable team ever, or they aren't. Yasiel Puig gets benched twice by Don Mattingly for "disciplinary reasons." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

Bless You Boys Podcast 84: Hey, hey, hey, it's Fat Albert!

Andy Dirks

Brandon and Ashley welcome in the honey voiced perspective and insight of one Andy Dirks to the podcast. The native born Kansan, transplanted Michigander, former Tigers outfielder, real estate maven, podcast host, and all around life coach talks his current endeavors, Tiger tales, and the mentality of success on the field and in life. There’s also that time that Jim Leyland challenged Jered Weaver to a fiery bout of fisticuffs. Hold onto your butts.Dirks retirement and how he applied lessons learned in baseball to his life after retirement.Get Your Game Right- How Andy’s podcast aims to teach the mentality of the game through conversations with coaches, scouts and player development personnel.The role of confidence is playing consistently good baseball.Brandon wonders if plate discipline can be taught (asking for some friends).Sometimes Miguel Cabrera just sees things other can’t, and how a normal player makes adjustments.What’s in a good clubhouse?Andy Dirks doesn’t really want to hear players complain about West Coast travel.Looking back at a three year major-league career in which the Tigers never missed the playoffs.Jim Leyland’s greatest hits. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Brandon and Ashley welcome in the honey voiced perspective and insight of one Andy Dirks to the podcast. The native born Kansan, transplanted Michigander, former Tigers outfielder, real estate maven, podcast host, and all around life coach talks his current endeavors, Tiger tales, and the mentality of success on the field and in life. There’s also that time that Jim Leyland challenged Jered Weaver to a fiery bout of fisticuffs. Hold onto your butts. Dirks retirement and how he applied lessons learned in baseball to his life after retirement.Get Your Game Right- How Andy’s podcast aims to teach the mentality of the game through conversations with coaches, scouts and player development personnel.The role of confidence is playing consistently good baseball.Brandon wonders if plate discipline can be taught (asking for some friends).Sometimes Miguel Cabrera just sees things other can’t, and how a normal player makes adjustments.What’s in a good clubhouse?Andy Dirks doesn’t really want to hear players complain about West Coast travel.Looking back at a three year major-league career in which the Tigers never missed the playoffs.Jim Leyland’s greatest hits. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

Bless You Boys Podcast 27: Andy Dirks is our life coach now

Mercifully, after a strange offseason, spring camp has arrived full of feel-good stories, talented prospects, a lean, mean Miguel Cabrera, and all the trappings of the 2020 season’s beginning. We’ll take a look at some of the news, notes, and general chicanery coming out of Lakeland with the boys now back in town.MLB announces pay raises for MiLB players, which is good, but as expected, they seem to come at the expense of a lot of jobs rather than any commitment from owners to treat their players more fairly.Finally, the sign-stealing scandal won’t leave the headlines as players weigh in with frustration and anger, and Rob Manfred’s story seems to change every day. Now we wait for the other shoe to drop in Boston, and at least one of us (Brandon) fears this is going to get worse before it gets better. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mercifully, after a strange offseason, spring camp has arrived full of feel-good stories, talented prospects, a lean, mean Miguel Cabrera, and all the trappings of the 2020 season’s beginning. We’ll take a look at some of the news, notes, and general chicanery coming out of Lakeland with the boys now back in town.MLB announces pay raises for MiLB players, which is good, but as expected, they seem to come at the expense of a lot of jobs rather than any commitment from owners to treat their players more fairly.Finally, the sign-stealing scandal won’t leave the headlines as players weigh in with frustration and anger, and Rob Manfred’s story seems to change every day. Now we wait for the other shoe to drop in Boston, and at least one of us (Brandon) fears this is going to get worse before it gets better. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast 69: Nice times in Lakeland

The Tigers set their 40 man roster, and protected just about every likely suspect this week. We'd like to encourage them to sign Travis d'Arnaud or some other decent catcher please. The Astros punishments should be coming soon. It's going to be very interesting to see how a year of blunders and reprehensible conduct is dealt with by MLB. Finally, Commissioner Manfred sounds an awful lot like he's daring the players union to strike, and we're not thrilled with he and the owners right now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Tigers set their 40 man roster, and protected just about every likely suspect this week. We'd like to encourage them to sign Travis d'Arnaud or some other decent catcher please. The Astros punishments should be coming soon. It's going to be very interesting to see how a year of blunders and reprehensible conduct is dealt with by MLB. Finally, Commissioner Manfred sounds an awful lot like he's daring the players union to strike, and we're not thrilled with he and the owners right now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast 62 - Tigers protect, Manfred attacks, can't we just have baseball back?

Ashley MacLennan and Brandon Day are back with a new episode as the offseason speculation begins to warm up the ol' hot stove. We'll talk the Washington Nationals' party, Lou Whitaker's long awaited shot at a much deserved place in Cooperstown, and start setting the table for roster moves and free agent signings for both the Tigers and a few of the bigger names in the game.-The Nationals are on a pretty epic post World Series bender-Lou Whitaker leads the new Modern Era Committee ballot and is the early favorite to finally get his rightful spot in Cooperstown.-Gerrit Cole, Stephen Strasburg, and Anthony Rendon lead another strong free agent class into another very uncertain offseason.-Yasiel Puig to Detroit? On a one-year deal? We're not convinced on MLB Trade Rumors' Tigers predictions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ashley MacLennan and Brandon Day are back with a new episode as the offseason speculation begins to warm up the ol' hot stove. We'll talk the Washington Nationals' party, Lou Whitaker's long awaited shot at a much deserved place in Cooperstown, and start setting the table for roster moves and free agent signings for both the Tigers and a few of the bigger names in the game.-The Nationals are on a pretty epic post World Series bender-Lou Whitaker leads the new Modern Era Committee ballot and is the early favorite to finally get his rightful spot in Cooperstown.-Gerrit Cole, Stephen Strasburg, and Anthony Rendon lead another strong free agent class into another very uncertain offseason.-Yasiel Puig to Detroit? On a one-year deal? We're not convinced on MLB Trade Rumors' Tigers predictions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BYB Podcast 61 : Sweet Lou Your Time Has Finally Come

The best podcasts about ourselves as well as the world through the lense of Science. Specific topics include things about our brain, emotions to biology, physics and more!

Best Episodes on Science, Humans & The World

The best podcast episodes on parenting. Interviewing experts and talking through common issues surrounding parenting. This topic is filled with important lessons and insights for anyone listening. Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!