In this week's episode, we mark a momentous day in Team of Rivals history – Elliott was in the room before Ron!

We kick things off with some friendly banter about Ron's ongoing tech struggles, Elliott's surprising punctuality, and the scorching weather in Charlotte. But don't worry, we quickly shift gears to tackle some hot-button topics in the world of baseball.

First up, we discuss the controversial use of defensive positioning cards and how they impact the game. Pete and Ron share their frustrations with the over-reliance on analytics and the loss of the storytelling aspect that once made baseball so captivating. We also touch on the recent Rickwood game and the nostalgic broadcast that had fans buzzing. Was it a glimpse into what baseball broadcasts should be?

Then, we dive into the state of pitching in Major League Baseball. With insights from a recent article on The Athletic, we explore how pitch labs and advanced analytics are changing the game, for better or worse. Are pitchers becoming too dominant, and is it time for batters to get back to basics?

We also can't ignore the elephant-sized head in the room – Barry Bonds making the Rickwood game all about himself. We dissect his comments and share a few laughs at his expense. Plus, we reminisce about some legendary stories involving Willie Mays, Satchel Paige, and Bob Gibson.

Finally, we get into some wild trade ideas to shake up the Cubs and Cardinals rosters. Ron suggests a controversial move that would have X/Twitter in flames, while Pete proposes a bold trade involving some fan favorites. And Elliott? Well, he's just hoping for some bullpen help to stop the Cubs' late-game collapses.

Reggie Jackson on Willie Mays' legacy & emotions of visiting Rickwood Field

MLB offense is nearing all-time lows — hitters have theories: ‘Pitching is out of control’

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In this special bonus episode of the Team of Rivals Podcast, we break from our usual schedule to bring you an in-depth conversation with Pete's friend and Dirty Dirty White Sox Fan, Alex Levine. As both the Cubs and Cardinals struggle to stay relevant, we dive into the dismal state of Chicago White Sox baseball and explore the emotional turmoil of being a fan of a team in freefall.

First, we reminisce about the optimism surrounding the Craig Kimbrell trade three years ago and how quickly things went south. Alex shares his candid thoughts on the White Sox's current struggles, the failure of Pedro Grifol's managerial tenure, and the deep-rooted issues within the organization. From the disastrous 2023 season to the potential for setting new records of futility in 2024, we leave no stone unturned.

We also discuss the broader implications of Jerry Reinsdorf's ownership, the missed opportunities in free agency, and the controversial hiring of Tony La Russa. Alex provides a sobering look at the future of the franchise, including the prospect of a move to Nashville and what it means for die-hard fans.

Whether you're a White Sox fan looking for a therapy session or just a baseball enthusiast interested in the inner workings of a struggling franchise, this episode is a must-listen.

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After a two-week hiatus, the Team returns – with a remote call-in by Elliott! – to discuss the miserable state of baseball in the NL Central, the retirement of Angel Hernandez, and more.

First up, Ron and Pete tackle the current state of the NL Central. It's no secret that the division has been struggling, and they break down exactly why it's been so disappointing. Ron sums it up perfectly: "The NL Central is terrible. I mean, just utterly, utterly terrible."

Next, they shift focus to the Chicago White Sox. With their season in a downward spiral, is it possible that they set a new record for losses, and is it okay for fans to root for such futility?

But it's not all doom and gloom! In this week's installment of Ron's Soccer Minute, they dive into the exhilarating world of soccer. St. Louis City SC recently faced off against Inter Miami, and what a match it was! Lionel Messi, one of the greatest players of all time, showcased his incredible skills. Even though the match ended in a draw, it was a thrilling experience for fans and a testament to the growing popularity of soccer in the U.S.

Chip Caray follows in his grandfather's footsteps, leading to a ToR brainstorm of a million-dollar idea that could revolutionize the ticket resale market. Imagine a platform where you can choose to sit next to someone attractive who shares your interests. It's a combination of ticket resales and a dating site, and we think it has the potential to be a game-changer.

Which old man yells at clouds and why? Stick around to the end to find out...

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