Team Of Rivals Podcast

Elliott, Ron, and Pete wrap up the 2024 season. Smiles, everybody! This week, we dive into the state of the St. Louis Cardinals' player development. Katie Woo’s latest article in The Athletic reveals that the Cardinals' player development team is significantly smaller compared to other National League teams, raising concerns about their future. Ron shares his thoughts on the Cardinals' struggles and the impact of their lean staffing levels on player development. Meanwhile, Elliott gives us an update from the Cubs game he attended, highlighting Jameson Taillon’s strong performance against the Reds. The discussion shifts to the Cubs' future, particularly regarding Ian Happ’s no-trade clause and Cody Bellinger’s potential opt-out. The team debates the Cubs' need for a superstar bat and the challenges they face in upgrading their lineup. The guys also touch on the broader issues in Major League Baseball, including the Oakland A's move to Las Vegas and the impact of poor ownership on fan engagement. They also disc

While there's little left of the 2024 MLB season – for the Cubs and the Cards anyway – today's episode is dedicated to honoring the legendary James Earl Jones. His passing warrants a special episode, as his voice has been a constant throughout Ron's and Pete's lives, from the big screen to their favorite sports moments. (We assume the same is true for Elliott, but, well, you know…) Join Ron and Pete as they reminisce about the iconic roles and unforgettable voice. From Darth Vader's menacing presence to the nostalgic monologue in Field of Dreams, they explore the impact of his work on our lives and our love for baseball and cinema. Ron shares a heartfelt trip down memory lane, recalling the days of early gaming and the evolution of technology, while Pete dives into the significance of timeless storytelling and the universal truths that make films, television, and even podcasts long-lasting. In a lighter segment, the guys discuss the advancements in computing, from the days of floppy disks, cassettes, and CEDs

It's a joyous time in Chicago because – despite their miniscule playoff odds – the Cubs have been playing fun baseball. However, there is no joy in Mudville, as one of the National League's crown jewels is experiencing shocking levels of disinterest from the Best Fans in Baseball™. How much longer can DW Sticks put up with the incompetence of a front office that trades for Tommy Pham, subsequently designates him for assignment (poor Pete!), mishandles Jordan Walker, and trades Dylan Carlson and releases the return (who is – of course – signed by the Cubs)? Thankfully, we have Ron's Soccer Minute to bring you a welcome respite, updating listeners on City's thrilling 4-4 draw against the Portland Timbers and previewing their upcoming match against the LA Galaxy. Check out the livestream on YouTube, Rumble, or Facebook. Follow us on X, Instagram, and GETTR. Like us on Facebook. Check out Fuel Sports Network on Facebook and on X.

While the regular season is winding down for both the Cubs and the Cardinals, Ron and Pete have plenty to discuss. From inside-the-park home runs to Campfire Milkshakes, from six-inning minimums to Ron's Soccer Minute, it's still a full episode (even without Elliott). The Team kicks things off with an exhilarating inside-the-park home run by Pete Crow-Armstrong, which inspires a throwback to the time that Ron actually saw one in person. They then shift gears to discuss the state of the Cardinals and Cubs, including their respective frustrations with the Cubs' playoff hopes and the Cardinals' need for a rebuild. Ron shares his thoughts on recent comments from Cardinals' ownership and the team's future direction. In "Ron's Soccer Minute", they dive into City's recent performance, including their thrilling match against Portland and the impact of new signings on the team's future. They also touch on the upcoming game against the LA Galaxy and the end of the supporters' boycott. Finally, Ron and Pete wrap up with

Do you remember the innocent days of April, when all five NL Central teams were over .500? Well, reality has hit hard, and now only one team is above .500, with both the Cubs and the Cards struggling. Ron risks a demotion as he gets utterly embarrassed by an on-time and ready-to-perform Elliott. With Ron conspicuously absent, the first half of the show is Cubs-heavy, as E and Pete discuss their frustrations with the Cubs' recent performance, potential future moves, and  the recent improvements for both Pete Crow-Armstrong and Miguel Amaya. Eventually, Ron joins the discussion, expressing his disillusionment with the Cardinals' season and the need for a complete rebuild. The guys debate the effectiveness of the current front office and the future of Nolan Arenado and Paul Goldschmidt. In this week's Soccer Minute, Ron provides an update on City's performance in the Leagues Cup and the impact of new signings on the team's future. Check out the livestream on YouTube, Rumble, and Facebook. Follow us on X, Instagr

This week's show is dedicated to Ruby Jade Nuttall. SPOILER ALERT: Elliott was, indeed, drunk already. Ron and Pete hold down the fort this week, kicking off the episode by discussing the MLB trade deadline, with Ron admitting he didn’t follow it closely. The conversation then shifts to the Cubs and Cardinals, who wrap up their season series tonight, an unusually early end for these rivals. The guys also touch on NFL Hall of Fame weekend and Devin Hester’s legendary status, with Pete proudly showing off his "Devin Hester, You Are Ridiculous!" t-shirt. Ron also shares a heartfelt story about his son’s baseball journey and the mental toughness required to succeed in the sport. Next, the guys circle back around to the state of the Cardinals' roster, particularly the surprising trade involving Tommy Edman and the return of Tommy Pham. Ron and Pete speculate on the future of players like Nolan Gorman and Jordan Walker, pondering potential offseason moves. Elliott makes a brief, inebriated appearance to share his f

This week's episode kicks off with a discussion on the upcoming MLB trade deadline. With just three days left, the Ron, Elliott, and Pete speculate on potential moves for the Cubs and Cardinals. They analyze the trade rumors surrounding numerous Cubs players. Next, the team shifts gears to discuss the blackout issues with MLB.TV and Ron's frustration with being a Cardinals fan in North Carolina. The conversation also touches on the value of advanced metrics versus actual performance, specifically the over-reliance on analytics and the decline in batting averages. The guys reminisce about the days when batting over .300 was a more frequent achievement and express their preference for players who can consistently put the ball in play. Pete and Ron then switch over to the state of the Cardinals' roster, the potential for trades, and the performance of key players like Paul Goldschmidt and Nolan Arenado. In Ron's Soccer Minute, Ron provides an update on St. Louis City SC's performance in the Leagues Cup and the r

The I-55 Rivalry resumes, the All-Star Break looms, and Ron, Pete, and even Elliott dive into the chaos of a Saturday doubleheader, where the Cubs have already taken a beating, and it's only the fourth inning of Game 1. They kick things off with a recap of the Cubs' disastrous start and the Cardinals' surprising lead. Ron and Pete discuss the mishaps, errors, and unfortunate plays that led to the Cubs' downfall in the early innings. With Elliott joining – err, remotely –  you'll get a unique perspective on the game and some humorous commentary on his multitasking skills. Next, the Team shifts gears to talk about the state of baseball attendance, particularly in St. Louis. Despite a historically strong fan base, the empty seats at Busch Stadium are a stark reminder of the challenges facing the Cardinals' organization. Ron and Pete speculate on what it will take to bring the fans back and revive the excitement for baseball in St. Louis. The guys also delve into the upcoming MLB draft and the trade deadline, pon

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,

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 franchi

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 expe

In this week's episode, Ron and Pete tackle a whirlwind of topics, all while Pete battles a severe case of sleep deprivation. From managing a thousand kids at the Field Museum and Navy Pier, to the disappointment of a rained-out Cardinals vs. Cubs game, the duo navigates through a myriad of sports and personal anecdotes. They dive into the implications of the missed game, the missed opportunity to hear Chip Caray and Joe Buck call a game together, and the frustration of paying for an MLB.TV subscription only to not watch the game due to rain. The conversation takes a deeper turn as they discuss the state of pitching in Major League Baseball, with insights from a recent article on The Athletic featuring Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander. Ron and Pete lament the shift away from traditional starting pitchers and the over-reliance on analytics that prioritize velocity over longevity and strategy. They also touch on the increasing frequency of Tommy John surgeries among young pitchers and the impact of strict pitc

In this May the 4th special, the Team of Rivals Podcast takes the celebration outdoors, embracing the beauty of Chicago's spring while diving headfirst into the world of sports and Star Wars. With Elliott MIA once again, Ron and Pete hold down the fort, discussing everything from the Cardinals' broadcast woes to the Cubs' unexpected position in the NL Central. They also delve into the curious case of Nike's MLB uniform mishaps and the implications for merch sales. The duo doesn't shy away from a little intergalactic banter, with Ron sharing his plans for Star Wars Night at a minor league game and Pete reminiscing about French-dubbed Star Wars. They even throw in a hilarious nod to the infamous Chilean Cerveza Cristal commercials spliced into classic Star Wars scenes. Whether you're here for the latest sports takes or just to indulge in some Star Wars nostalgia, this episode has it all. Don't forget, you can catch the live replay on YouTube, Rumble, X, or Facebook, and follow us on social media @TeamOfRivalsPo

We're all over the map this week – from technology tantrums to the state of the Cardinals, from Kyle Hendricks' decline to the NL Central's predictability. Ron vents about Wirecast woes and flings furniture, while Pete ponders whether it's time for the Cubs to cut ties with their soft-tossing stalwart. Plus, Elliott makes a surprise call-in from the soccer fields, offering his take on Hendricks' future. The Cardinals' fanbase is in full revolt, calling for a teardown of the front office, and we discuss whether such drastic changes are overdue. Meanwhile, the Cubs are navigating a sea of injuries and facing tough decisions with their rotation. And don't miss Ron's Soccer Minute, where he shares the latest on St. Louis CITY SC's ups and downs, including the return of a key player amidst personal challenges. Whether you're frustrated with your team's performance, curious about the future of a favorite player, or just here for the chaotic fun, this episode delivers a curveball of content. Don't forget to catch th

Despite some (unsurprising and inevitable) technical hiccups and the absence of our Permanent Occasional Guest Host, Elliott, Ron and Pete take the reins to dissect the highs and lows of the baseball world, from the Cardinals' tenuous position in the NL Central race to the Cubs' surprising tenacity. The duo delves into the curious case of ticket sales in St. Louis, debating whether the dip is due to scheduling, weather, or a deeper discontent with the Cardinals' performance. They also ponder the enigma of player development, with a spotlight on the rollercoaster ride of rookie expectations. The conversation veers into the NFL Draft, as the enthusiasm for the Bears' picks is palpable, and Pete contemplates the implications of a potential shake-up to the Star Wars universe. Ron's Soccer Minute (which is never just a minute) offers an update on St. Louis CITY SC's bye week blues and the anticipation for their next face-off against the Houston Dynamo. Whether you're a baseball purist, a football fanatic, or just

Happy Holiday to Elliott and all who celebrate! Ron and Pete press on even as the Permanent Occasional Guest Host lives up to his title on a Saturday morning. The founders dissect the latest from the diamond, including the Cardinals' offensive woes and the White Sox's historic struggle at the plate. Is St. Louis's lack of run production just a phase, or are alarm bells ringing in the Gateway City? The guys pay homage to the late, great Whitey Herzog, reminiscing about his impact on the Cardinals and the broader baseball landscape. They ponder the future of MLB managers and whether the era of the revered skipper is fading into the sunset. Tyler O'Neill's latest IL stint sparks a debate on player durability and fan patience, while "Ron's Soccer Minute" takes an unexpected turn into a full-blown analysis of St. Louis CITY SC's current season challenges. Will their tactics need a shake-up to keep up with the competition? Whether you're mourning the loss of a Cardinals legend, mulling over the fate of MLB managers

Gear up for another high-octane episode of the Team of Rivals Podcast, because the guys got up early on a Saturday because … well, just because!! Your favorite trio of die-hard baseball enthusiasts dissect the latest twists and turns of MLB with their signature blend of insight (ha!) and irreverence. Ron, Elliott, and Pete dive headfirst into the rising costs of attending a Major League Baseball game, yet another baffling performance by Angel Hernandez, and the perplexing world of the St. Louis Cardinals. Treading water at .500, the guys dissect the team's performance, including the lackluster starts from key hitters and the promising debut of Sonny Gray. Will the Cardinals find their stride, or is change in the air? Meanwhile, the Brewers and Pirates are off to surprisingly strong starts, but the guys are skeptical. Are they true contenders, or will the rigors of the season reveal their true colors? Ron vents his frustrations with former Cardinal Tyler O'Neill. Is he – yet another – missed opportunity, or ju

Buckle up, baseball aficionados, as the Team of Rivals Podcast unpacks the latest and greatest (or perhaps the worst) from MLB, including the bombshell that Shohei Ohtani and the Dodgers might be the sport's biggest villains. The Cubs, on the other hand, are proving to be a delightful surprise, earning the title of one of the most objectively enjoyable teams to watch this season. This week, Ron, Elliott, and Pete take a turn down memory lane with a candid chat about which players from their beloved teams irk them the most. From current nuisances to historical headaches, no player is safe from their unfiltered critiques. And if that wasn't enough for you, the guys also take aim at the announcer's booth, praising the calls of Boog Sciambi and debating the merit of the voices that bring the game to life. Plus, a shocking revelation about the Oakland A's future home has the trio contemplating a road trip that could go down in podcast legend. Don't miss out on the banter, insights, and the occasional off-topic ran

Step up to the plate with the Team of Rivals as they tackle the highs and lows of MLB's opening day. The Cardinals may have had a rough start against the Dodgers, but Ron, Elliott, and Pete aren't losing hope just yet. They're breaking down the Cardinals' struggle against the Dodgers and the Cubs' face-off with the World Series champion Rangers. They also delve into the nuances of player contracts, including the legendary Bobby Bonilla payout scheme and rookie callups. Whether you're a die-hard baseball fan or just love a good sports discussion, this episode is your ticket to the big leagues. Check out Ron's new soccer podcast at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/at-the-park-stl/id1737715765. We live-streamed this week, so you can rewatch this episode on Rumble, YouTube, or Facebook. Follow us on X, GETTR, and Instagram. Like us on Facebook. Check out Gateway City Sports. Check out Fuel Sports Network.  

Strap in for a rollercoaster ride as Ron, Elliott, and Pete tackle the elephant in the room amid a sea of MLB chaos. In this episode, we're bypassing the usual banter on injuries and player movements to zone in on the Shohei Ohtani saga that's got the baseball world holding its breath. Is the golden boy of the Los Angeles Dodgers in a gambling mess, and if so, what does that mean for him, the team, and the integrity of the game? From the potential implications on Ohtani's mega contract to the eerie silence from MLB's top brass, we dissect the swirling rumors and the deafening lack of concrete information. Plus, we can't help but draw parallels to historical precedents and wonder aloud about the possible double standards at play. As we ponder the future of baseball's poster boy, we also touch upon the state of the sport at the grassroots level, and how the game's changing landscape might be impacting its very soul. Join Ron, Pete, and Elliot as they delve deep into the controversy, share their unfiltered opini