Tony Gwynn Jr. and Ben Davis start out the episode with a little game: in light of Gerrit Cole's 300th strikeout, the hosts try to guess who struck them out the most throughout their careers (1:06). After discussions on Carl and Mike Yastrzemski's Fenway performance (14:19), Tony remembers some instances where he and his Dad were able to take the field together (17:10). After in-depth talk on the NL East (18:40), former pitcher/outfielder and analyst Rick Ankiel joins the show to talk about the game's current players who pitch and bat at high levels, as well as his time spent playing with Albert Pujols and his memories of pitching to Barry Bonds (27:19). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Three guests join Jon Heyman and Josh Lewin this week, who begin the episode with a deep dive into several Wild Card contenders. Phillies general manager Matt Klentak is the first special guest to join the show, and he discusses who deserves the title of team MVP and who the Phillies are trying to hold onto (15:14), followed by Brewers vice president and assistant GM Matt Arnold, who dives into how the team has stayed positive following Christian Yelich's injury and who they're leaning on down the stretch (26:08). The last guest, Marc Topkin, returns to the show to talk Tampa Bay Rays and how they've brought together such a strong team in such touch circumstances (34:04). To wrap, Jon Heyman brings us insider information on various topics including the future of Joe Maddon (43:44). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Tony Gwynn Jr. and Ben Davis start off this week's episode with their memories of 9/11 and what it was like to play afterwards (1:52), followed by their takes on Christian Yelich's injury (5:37), Anthony Rendon's MVP case (8:20), and the NL Wild Card race (12:47). They switch to the AL later on, talking about a potential Yankees-Astros playoff series (19:11) and the threatening Oakland Athletics offense (24:59). RADIO.COM Sports MLB Insider and MLB Network analyst Kevin Millar joins the guys to give his opinion on the NL Wild Card race, the inflated power numbers, and his golf outing with John Lackey, Josh Beckett, and more (30:21). To wrap, Ben shares a story about a pair of cleats he found in his basement: cleats that happened to be signed by a certain Hall of Fame outfielder (40:08). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Not one but two general managers join Jon Heyman and Josh Lewin on the podcast this week. But first, the guys talk about Dave Dombrowski's sudden firing (1:28), the Mets' questionable decisions and the Phillies' refusal to bow out of the race (11:30), how the NL Central will shake out (15:33), and the AL Cy Young race (17:08). Then, Twins General Manager Thad Levine talks about his team's unbelievable power display and their depth heading into the postseason (20:49) and Angels General Manager Billy Eppler comes aboard to talk about how Shohei Ohtani will be used in the future and what the organization will do to become a playoff-bound club (31:38). To wrap up, Jon Heyman goes over potential suitors for Gerrit Cole in free agency and what the future holds for the Cincinnati Reds (45:22). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Tony Gwynn Jr. and Ben Davis return start the show with an update on Tyler Skaggs' passing (0:55) before getting into the Nats' 9th-inning explosion/Mets' implosion (3:38), whether or not outfielders should risk injury for a spectacular catch (13:00), the return of Carlos Carrasco (19:00), and the possible takeover of "superteams" in baseball (22:47). After ending the first segment with a discussion of the best and worst ballparks for food (30:20), the hosts are joined by former outfielder and current Braves TV analyst Jeff Francoeur for conversations about Ronald Acuna, Freddie Freeman, and potential obstacles in Atlanta for a deep postseason run (34:14). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Jon Heyman and Josh Lewin lead off the show with a breakdown of the NL playoff picture (1:21), followed by discussions on Houston's dangerous starting rotation (6:04), the continuing power surge throughout baseball (11:17), and the toxicology report on Tyler Skaggs and the Angels' future (13:45). Lead Cardinals beat writer Derrick Goold then joins the show to talk about Jack Flaherty's success and Yadier Molina's clubhouse impact (17:23), and legendary baseball writer, historian, and statistician Bill James comes on to talk about the real value of WAR and some underappreciated Hall of Fame candidates (32:07). As usual, Jon Heyman wraps up the show by bringing us insider information on the sale of the Kansas City Royals and aging free agents (43:09). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Tony Gwynn Jr. and Ben Davis kick off the episode by discussing what they would have put on their Players Weekend jerseys (5:53), followed by conversation about potential big-name free agents (7:56), the unbelievable start of Aristides Aquino's career (18:27), the entertaining AL Central race (20:25), and the issues surrounding Dodgers closer Kenley Jansen(27:46). After predicting their locks for the 2020s All-Decade team (39:38), Phillies manager Gabe Kapler joins Tony and Ben to answer questions about J.T. Realmuto, Charlie Manuel, and deciding the batting order (43:10). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Jon Heyman and Josh Lewin open up the show with their thoughts on the Players' Weekend jerseys (1:13), followed by discussions about Tampa Bay's Wild Card push (7:07), JD Martinez's free agency prospects (9:45), and the Indians' loss of Jose Ramirez (13:48). After weighing how far the Braves could go in the playoffs (23:47), New York Mets General Manager Brodie Van Wagenen joins the hosts to talk about the Mets' amazing turnaround and Pete Alonso's importance to the franchise (27:01). To wrap up, Heyman gives insider insight on topics such as Didi Gregorious's future in New York and Justin Verlander's controversial press conference (39:59). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Tony Gwynn Jr. and Ben Davis dive into the home run crown race and the likely winner (2:38), the potential for a new 50-30 club and its founding member, Christian Yelich (4:01), whether or not Albert Pujols deserves GOAT recognition (8:38), and the issue of hustle on the basepaths (13:53). After going over several NL Wild Card teams (18:17) and MLB.com's "All Debut Team" (28:28), the hosts are joined by former player and Astros' color analyst Geoff Blum for a discussion about Verlander's prolonged success and the offensive production of Michael Brantley (31:15). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Tony Gwynn Jr. and Ben Davis go over the tight competition in the AL Central (2:30), the Mets' shaky bullpen (9:27), the injury issues of Fernando Tatis Jr. (12:34), and health issues of players on playoff-bound teams (17:10). After discussing the return of Charlie Manuel to Philadelphia (21:11) and Bryce Harper's recent success (24:25), Dodgers manager Dave Roberts joined the guys to talk about Clayton Kershaw's prolonged dominance and how to construct a lineup heading into the postseason (32:30). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Jon Heyman and Josh Lewin dissect the jam-packed NL Wild Card Race (1:26), the Phillies' disappointing season (4:45), the absence of the Red Sox from the playoff hunt (11:00), and whether or not the Rays can make a late-season run on the Yankees (11:48). Then, they're joined by Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins, who discusses the young core of the team and the playing environment of Toronto (19:01), followed by Mets radio announcer Wayne Randazzo, who goes over the reason behind their recent hot streak (28:29). To wrap up, Heyman discusses Joe Maddon and several other managers on the hot seat (38:20). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Tony Gwynn Jr. and Ben Davis discuss Zack Greinke’s comments after his first start with the Astros (1:49), if the Mets’ surge can turn into a playoff run (5:22), if newly-acquired Cubs catcher Jonathan Lucroy will be difference-maker amid Willson Contreras’ absence (10:44) and whether the Dodgers’ walk-off magic will carry over into October (14:22). Later on, they dig into the Yankees’ historic power numbers (18:06), why the Red Sox (21:13) are slowly falling out of the playoff race, Nelson Cruz’s insane bat speed in Minnesota (23:23) and the suddenly-intriguing National League Rookie of the Year race (27:25). To wrap it up, they chat with Kevin Frandsen -- the former major-league infielder-turned-Phillies radio analyst -- about why Philadelphia been plagued with inconsistency this season (30:45). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Jon Heyman and Josh Lewin breakdown the American League heavyweights, led by the Astros after their trade for Zack Greinke (1:24). They also talk about the Yankees' big lead in the Al East despite all their injuries (4:22), the Red Sox' woes (6:17) and NL teams -- like the Cubs and Mets -- picking up steam (9:31). Later on, the guys bring on Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo to discuss Arizona's rebuilding phase while staying in the wild-card race, along with what Greinke meant to the organization (18:57). They also chat with Indians play-by-play voice Tom Hamilton about what's led to Cleveland's surge (25:55) before wrapping it up with Heyman evaluating teams' moves at the deadline (35:52). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Tony Gwynn Jr. and Ben Davis recap all the big MLB trade deadline news, including the Astros’ acquisition of Zach Greinke, the Braves' big bullpen moves, the Yankees’ lack of participation despite their need for starting pitching and the Trevor Bauer-Yasiel Puig blockbuster deal. They also discuss how the Indians must feel about their playoff chances based on their deadline moves and their athletic starter Shane Bieber, along with the Cubs trading for outfielder Nick Castellanos. 16-year veteran-turned-Dodgers broadcaster Jerry Hairston Jr. talks about the Pirates’ decision not to move Felipe Vazquez to L.A. and potential postseason opponents, including the Braves and the revamped Astros. See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Jon Heyman and Josh Lewin discuss whether the Mets' deal for Blue Jays starter Marcus Stroman made sense for their organization (2:08), Trevor Bauer's antics after getting pulled from his start on Sunday and if the Indians will trade him (8:36), along with which contenders should go all in before the trade deadline (15:33). Later on, Radio.com Sports insider Bob Nightengale (17:46) and ex-Dodgers general manager Ned Colletti (27:26) join the guys to breakdown the latest rumors this week before Lewin and Heyman dissect whether the Giants should trade Madison Bumgarner and the Padres' plans (40:54). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Ben Davis flies solo this week, dissecting Yankees catcher Gary Sanchez and his poor defensive mechanics (3:23), the best relievers on the market and which teams need help (8:42) and the historic strikeout numbers from Astros starter Gerrit Cole (12:51). After discussing Mike Trout’s status as one of the all-time greats (17:30) and remembering Mark Buehrle’s perfect game from 10 years ago (22:10), Davis is joined by Padres catcher Austin Hedges, as the two backstops discuss Hedges’ framing technique, the talent behind San Diego closer Kirby Yates, Manny Machado's prowess, and the division-rival Los Angeles Dodgers (25:00). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Following Hall of Fame weekend, Jon Heyman and Josh Lewin go over the active players with the best chances of reaching Cooperstown, discuss how the Yankees are so unstoppable and debate who’s to blame for Boston’s sluggish season. Billy Beane -- Oakland Athletics executive VP of baseball ops then joins the show to discuss their strong start to the second half and the prominence of Houston as a divisional threat. The guys shift over to the NL East and talk about the Nats’ road to the playoffs and the future of Anthony Rendon with MASN's Mark Zuckerman. Heyman wraps it up with the latest trade deadline insight, including who’s buying and who’s selling, as well as the future of the Mets' staff. See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Tony Gwynn Jr. and Ben Davis talk about the red-hot San Francisco Giants and what their success means for Madison Bumgarner’s trade prospects (1:36), the impressive hitting display from the Nationals' Stephen Strasburg (7:15), and what it’s like to play ball in extreme heat conditions (19:37). With Hall of Fame weekend in Cooperstown around the corner, the guys share their experiences facing off against new inductees Mariano Rivera, Roy Halladay, and Mike Mussina (25:05). To finish the show, former MLB infielder and current TV analyst Geoff Blum shares his thoughts on the high-powered Houston offense, George Springer’s impressive blend of power and speed, and which team will provide the biggest challenge on the Astros’ journey to the playoffs (32:13). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Josh Lewin and Jon Heyman breakdown how the Angels honored the late Tyler Skaggs with a combined no-hitter and how the Rays nearly accomplished the same feat (1:18), the Atlantic League's robot umpires (7:00), Justin Verlander's comments on MLB's juiced baseballs (8:40) and the next generation of great talent in the game (10:23). Later on, they chat with Nick Krall (21:47) -- Cincinnati Reds vice president and general manager -- and WFAN's Yankees reporter Sweeny Murti (29:45). To wrap it up, Heyman breaks down whether Mickey Callaway will survive with the Mets and his latest trade insight as the deadline approaches (40:13). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Tony Gwynn Jr. and Ben Davis discuss Justin Verlander’s bold statement on MLB’s “juiced” baseballs and Rob Manfred’s reaction (1:35), the All-Star Game and Ronald Acuña Jr.’s impressive power display in the Home Run Derby (14:54), the pending trade deadline (22:00), the tight AL Central race (26:25) and World Series predictions entering the second half of the season (28:27). Newly-retired minor-league star Cody Decker then comes on the podcast and shares stories about his experiences at that level, his relationship with the late Tyler Skaggs, and what he’s going to miss most about playing (32:00). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

WEEI’s Rob Bradford (filling in for Josh Lewin) and Jon Heyman head into the All-Star break with discussions about Jonathan Lucroy and Jake Marisnick’s scary collision (2:30), the absence of Fernando Tatis Jr. in this year’s All-Star Game and the Nationals and Indians' respective runs (5:30). Radio.com Sports insider Joe Girardi then jumps on to share his take on Sunday’s home plate collision and his potential return to managing (17:55), plus Emmy-winning analyst and author Ned Colletti talks about his reign as Dodgers GM, including his acquisitions of Manny Ramirez and Cody Bellinger, along with his relationship with Joe Girardi (28:43). Heyman wraips it up with his insider segment, filled with updated trade rumors and much more (43:02). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Tony Gwynn Jr. and Ben Davis discuss the odd ending to Yankees-Mets and Ben's perspective as a former catcher (2:35), the late Tyler Skaggs, his effect on the Angels' organization and how Ben dealt with a similar circumstance during his playing days (4:50), Max Scherzer's dominance in Washington and their perception of the National League East (10:47), and the All-Star Game rosters and how the NL has loaded up compared to years past (18:16). Top wrap it up, they chat with former Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins (30:12). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

WFAN's Sweeny Murti -- in for Josh Lewin -- joins Jon Heyman to discuss the Yankees and Red Sox's offensive explosion in London (2:40), DJ Lemahieu’s MVP-caliber season (8:35) and their reactions to the All-Star Game rosters (12:08). Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos comes on to talk about the first-place Braves’ blend of young and veteran stars, plus their acquisition of Dallas Keuchel (15:47), and 92.3 The Fan's James Rapien offers his thoughts on the Indians’ pursuit of a Wild Card berth (31:33). Heyman then shares insider nuggets on potential pitchers on the trade block, including the Rangers’ Mike Minor and the Padres’ Kirby Yates (42:58), along with discussing the infamous Bobby Bonilla Day (48:13). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Tony Gwynn Jr. and Ben Davis discuss Albert Pujols and Manny Machado’s return to their respective former ballparks (2:30), Cleveland’s playoff chances/Carlos Santana’s resurgence (10:30) and why the All-Star Game should mean more to players (13:38). After sharing their own ASG memories (17:05), they discuss Mets manager Mickey Callaway (21:22) and weigh whether or not managers are held accountable for too much (24:45). Finally, Dodgers skipper Dave Roberts jumps on to breakdown Los Angeles’ red-hot first half, Cody Bellinger’s MVP campaign and its dominant pitching staff -- led by Walker Buehler (33:40). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Jon Heyman and Josh Lewin discuss the incident between Mets manager Mickey Callaway and reporter Tim Healey (2:12), Albert Pujols' return to St. Louis (10:53), the Yankees' interest in Madison Bumgarner (11:53) and Gabe Kapler’s job security in Philadelphia (14:42). Later on, Red Sox manager Alex Cora drops by to discuss Boston's World Series hangover and the strong play of Xander Bogaerts and Rafael Devers (15:51), D-backs skipper Torey Lovullo talks about Arizona's young core and the veteran presence of Zach Greinke (27:02), and Mets broadcaster Keith Hernandez joins the guys to discuss his perspective on the Callaway incident and the Mets’ bullpen woes (35:47). See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.