Shows
Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #127: Opening Day is (Finally) Here!Viva El Birdos editor Heather Simon and writers Tyler Kinzy and Ben Clemens discuss Paul Goldschmidt's contract extension, review the offseason that was for the St. Louis Cardinals, and look ahead to the 2019 regular season.2019-03-281h 14Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #126: Looking Back on 2018Viva El Birdos editor Heather Simon and writers Tyler Kinzy and Ben Clemens discuss the highs and and lows of the 2018 season and where that leaves the Cardinals organization as the offseason begins.2018-11-011h 19Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #125: Just Keep WinningViva El Birdos editor Heather Simon and writer Tyler Kinzy discuss the Cardinals' resurgence in the standings, what the road back to the postseason entails as the pennant chase heats up, how expanded rosters will impact the bench and pitching staff, and Matt Carpenter and Harrison Bader's chances of claiming an individual award this year.2018-08-271h 01Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #124: Trade Deadline Review, Pennant Chase PreviewViva El Birdos writers Tyler Kinzy, Ben Clemens, and editor Heather Simon discuss the frenzy of roster transactions leading up to the non-waiver trade deadline and where these decisions will lead the Cardinals in the 2018 season and beyond.2018-08-031h 21Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #123: An Uncertain FutureVEB editor Heather Simon and writers Lance Brozdowski and Tyler Kinzy break down the Cardinals’ lackluster play to begin the second half and consider what additional changes could be in store as the trade deadline nears. They also discuss the recent success of the organization’s minor league affiliates and potential shifts in the team’s player development and drafting strategies.2018-07-271h 21Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #122: Winds of ChangeVEB writers Tyler Kinzy and Tanner Puckett discuss the firing of Mike Matheny with VEB editor Heather Simon before assessing the Cardinals' long-term outlook at each position and debating the merit of a potential Carlos Martinez trade.2018-07-201h 26Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #121: To Sell Or Not To Sell?The Viva El Birdos Podcast makes its triumphant return as VEB writer Tyler Kinzy, editor Heather Simon, and managing editor Josey Curtis contemplate what direction the Cardinals should head in as the trade deadline approaches. They also discuss the latest clubhouse drama involving Jordan Hicks, Bud Norris, and Mike Matheny before tackling a trivia competition and answering listener questions ranging from organizational philosophies about tanking to Fortnite prowess.2018-07-131h 07Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #120: Walkoffs and the power threats of Jose Martinez and Miles MikolasJohn and Heather participate in trivia about Cardinals walk-off home runs and discuss the highs and lows of the first four games of the Cardinals season.2018-04-021h 00Viva El Birdos PodcastTHE LOST EPISODEIn this episode, originally recorded on November 18, 2017, John and Heather discuss the (at the time) hot Giancarlo Stanton rumors and how the Cardinals should plan their off-season.2018-04-0110 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #119: Will Leitch discusses the two loves of his life (and briefly, his children)John and Heather are joined by MLB.com, etc. writer Will Leitch (@willliamfleitch) and local wanderer Brendan Corkery (@BCorks09) to discuss the start of the 2018 season, how the Cardinals' recent past affects their present, and at 40:49, the group partakes in trivia about Opening Day, famous baseball names, and the Cardinals and Illinois Fighting Illini.2018-03-261h 10Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #118: The Cardinals WAR DraftJohn and Heather take turns in drafting 15-player teams to see which players will accumulate the most FanGraphs Wins Above Replacement for the 2018 Cardinals.2018-03-1955 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #117: The 2018 MLB Preview Edition with Dayn PerryJohn and Heather are joined by CBS Sports writer Dayn Perry to break down each division in Major League Baseball, as well as make Wild Card, LCS, and World Series predictions.2018-03-121h 15Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #116: Let's talk about 'spects, babyJohn and Heather are joined by Viva El Birdos prospect gurus Aaron "A.E." Schafer and Josey Curtis to discuss each's top ten prospects in the St. Louis Cardinals system as well as some additional intriguing prospects in the Cardinals' organization.2018-03-071h 16Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #115: The Paul DeJong extension and the Dinger DraftJohn and Heather discuss Paul DeJong's six-year, $26 million extension with the Cardinals and Tommy Pham's one-man battle against the league minimum salary, Heather participates in a round of "Name A Player on Each Team", and the two draft their favorite home runs in franchise history.2018-03-0557 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #114: Game NightJohn and Heather briefly discuss the Eric Hosmer and J.D. Martinez signings and too-early Spring Training results before engaging in four rounds of trivia, quizzing each other and then being quizzed about Cardinals and baseball history.2018-02-261h 19Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #113: Darvish, Norris, and PhamJohn and Heather discuss the Cubs' signing of Yu Darvish, the Cardinals' signing of Bud Norris, what holes they see in the Cardinals as currently constructed, and Tommy Pham's ranking among MLB center fielders.2018-02-1353 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #112: Brewers moves, Grichuk comments, and the Cardinals Hall of FameJohn and Heather do a round of walkup song-related trivia (3:12), discuss the Milwaukee Brewers' acquisitions of Christian Yelich and Lorenzo Cain and discuss how it impacts the NL Central race (11:52), Randal Grichuk's comments about playing time and Mike Matheny's response to them (23:59), and their picks for the 2018 class of the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame (32:37).
Photo credit: Andrew Gurney (@kingabababa on Twitter)'s drawing of Xavier Scruggs from his collection of drawings of every Cardinals batter to make a plate appearance in the 21st century.2018-02-0647 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #111: Grichuk, the cold stove, and triviaJohn, Heather, and VEB managing editor/FanGraphs writer Craig Edwards discuss the trade of Randal Grichuk to the Toronto Blue Jays (1:18), the institutional reasons for the lack of free agent movement (13:08), and Heather and Craig square off in FanGraphs WAR trivia (39:26).2018-01-221h 04Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #110: The one where we finally break down and discuss the DHJohn and Heather discuss the new developments from Winter Warm Up, including Luke Gregerson as closer and Yadier Molina's "retirement announcement", they discuss their opinions on the designated hitter (21:28), the results of the VEB Hall of Fame election (35:41), and answer listener questions (40:18).2018-01-1557 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #109: The Hall of Fame ballot editionJohn and Heather briefly discuss the lack of Cardinals transactions over the last two weeks and then go name-by-name to place votes for the 2018 Hall of Fame class.2018-01-021h 07Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #108: Marcell Ozuna, Stephen Piscotty, Manny Machado rumors, and ZiPS projectionsJohn and Heather discuss the acquisition of Marcell Ozuna from the Miami Marlins, the trade of Stephen Piscotty to the Oakland Athletics, more rumors surrounding Manny Machado of the Baltimore Orioles (among others), and the 2018 St. Louis Cardinals ZiPS projections.2017-12-1854 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #107: Stanton, Ohtani, Mikolas, Gregerson, and future movesJohn and Heather closed the book on new Yankees right fielder Giancarlo Stanton (0:55), discussed the potential impact of Angels pitcher/DH Shohei Ohtani on Albert Pujols (20:52), the signings of Miles Mikolas and Luke Gregerson (38:21), and discuss the potential of acquiring Christian Yelich, Marcell Ozuna, Chris Archer, Alex Colome, Josh Donaldson, and/or Manny Machado (49:24).2017-12-111h 08Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #106: The VEB Awards--Cardinals editionJohn and Heather are joined by Viva El Birdos writers Tyler Kinzy and As You Van Slyke It (i.e. Gail) to discuss the results of readers' choices for Cardinals MVP, Cy Young, and Rookie of the Year, as well as discussing the trade of Aledmys Diaz to the Toronto Blue Jays.2017-12-0351 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #105: The Cardinals Things draft with Benjamin HochmanJohn and Heather are joined by St. Louis Post-Dispatch sports columnist Benjamin Hochman to draft their favorite things about the St. Louis Cardinals. Link--The Vince Coleman interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yBg3dX7AdSg2017-11-2753 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #104: Doc, Stanton, Cooperstown, and listener questionsJohn and Heather discuss the late Roy Halladay, Giancarlo Stanton rumors, the new Hall of Fame ballot, and listener questions about just about everything.2017-11-201h 01Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #103: Stantonpalooza!John and Heather take a look at how the Astros and Dodgers built their rosters, the potential end of the Trevor Rosenthal and Lance Lynn eras in St. Louis, and rumors around free agents and Giancarlo Stanton.2017-11-0640 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #102: Game 5 vs. Game 6 and Cardinals coaching changesJohn and Heather compare the instant classic Game 5 of the 2017 World Series to Game 6 of the 2011 World Series, the firings of postseason managers John Farrell, Dusty Baker, and Joe Girardi, and the Cardinals' hirings of Mike Maddux and Jose Oquendo.2017-10-3055 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #101: The VEB Awards--AL and NL editionJohn and Heather are joined by Rotoworld's Drew Silva to discuss the results of the Viva El Birdos community's picks for American League and National League Rookie of the Year, Cy Young Award, and Most Valuable Player.2017-10-1952 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #100: The end of the Cardinals season and a postseason previewJohn and Heather discuss the final week of the season for the Cardinals, compete in trivia about 2017 Cardinals statistical leaders, and make postseason picks as well as ranking the remaining teams by rootability.2017-10-0258 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #99: The long-shot playoffs odds, Pham and DeWitt comments, and Winston Churchill (?) triviaJohn and Heather discuss the increasingly unlikely possibility of the Cardinals making the playoffs, recent interviews featuring Tommy Pham and Bill DeWitt Jr., and Heather emcees John and others in trivia about quotes from Mike Matheny and Winston Churchill.2017-09-2549 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #98: The Gang avoids actually discussing the CardinalsJohn and Heather procrastinate discussing the 2017 Cardinals by challenging each other to Tommy Pham and Memphis Redbirds themed trivia at 3:50, and at 28:48 start discussing the Redbirds' PCL title and, despite their best wishes, discuss the Cardinals' games against the Reds and Cubs and the team's dwindling chances at the postseason.2017-09-1850 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #97: The September playoffs have begunJohn and Heather discuss the recent winning ways of the Cardinals, the odds of the Cardinals making the playoffs, the Juan Nicasio acquisition, and Mike Matheny's recent comments about Adam Wainwright.2017-09-1133 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #96: The Mike Leake trade and the new doors it opensJohn and Heather play trivia regarding the 1996 Cardinals, discuss last week's roster moves regarding Mike Leake and Kevin Siegrist, and the team's options in center field.2017-09-0541 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #95: How Tommy Pham saves us from the crushing reality of 2017John and Heather discuss the disappointing 2-4 home stand, good performances from Tommy Pham and Luke Weaver, injuries to Trevor Rosenthal and Jedd Gyorko, and the incredible present and uncertain future of Giancarlo Stanton.2017-08-2846 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #94: Eclipses, cats, and learning to lose againJohn and Heather do two rounds of trivia, and at 11:10 banter about whether or not the solar eclipse counts as sports, and then they discuss the Cardinals' relative struggles, injuries to Trevor Rosenthal and Adam Wainwright, and the rally cat.2017-08-2149 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #93: A winning streak!John and Heather discuss the recent 8-game winning streak and banter about the Rally Cat, Tommy Pham, Adam Wainwright, the Little League World Series, and other things.2017-08-1446 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #92: The All-Time Cardinals AwardsJohn, Heather, and VEB podcast debutantes Matthew Ludwig and Tyler Kinzy briefly discuss the demotion of Stephen Piscotty to Memphis and discuss their picks for the greatest Cardinals players, pitchers, managers, and fielders of all-time.2017-08-071h 07Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #91: The trade deadline recap (and other stuff to fill time)John and Heather discuss the relative inaction of the Cardinals trade deadline, what the lack of moves says about the Cardinals, and comments made by Yadier Molina and Mike Matheny.2017-07-3147 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #90: The impending trade deadline as buyers or sellersJohn and Heather discuss the Cardinals' 3-4 post-All Star Break start and whether the Cardinals should jump into full-on sell mode or bide their time until the trade deadline.2017-07-2046 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #89: All-stars, emerging hitters, and a lot of triviaJohn and Heather discuss Cardinals all-stars Yadier Molina and Carlos Martinez, the emergence of Paul DeJong and Luke Voit, and are joined by a "special" guest for an extended version of MLB trivia. 2017-07-111h 00Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #88: A bunch of roster moves and listener questionsJohn and Heather play a round of Cardinals trivia, then at 11:32 discuss Pride Night, the promotions of Randal Grichuk and Luke Voit, and answer listener questions about sandwiches, favorite smells, and Cardinals/The Office parallels.2017-06-2657 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #87: Preparing for an expansion draftJohn and Heather discuss the recent struggles and tumble of the Cardinals' playoff odds, and then they create a list of fifteen Cardinals to protect in a hypothetical MLB expansion draft.2017-06-1946 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #86: The best of times and the worst of timesJohn and Heather discuss the awful series against the Reds and the awesome series against the Phillies, Scooter Gennett's inexplicable excellence, Friday's roster moves, Carlos Martinez's ace status, and what to do about Yadier Molina and Randal Grichuk.2017-06-1252 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #85: Pujols hits #600, no current Cardinal hits anythingJohn and Heather discuss the future of Jhonny Peralta and the overall offensive struggles with the Cardinals, the success of Matts Holliday and Adams with different teams, and wax poetic about the latest career accomplishment for Albert Pujols.2017-06-0550 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #84: Cardinals and Chicago talk with Chris RongeyChris Rongey, co-host of 101 ESPN's The Fast Lane, joins John and Heather to discuss and up-and-down (mostly down) week of Cardinals baseball and to discuss his journey from St. Louis to Chicago and back to St. Louis.2017-05-301h 29Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #83: Matt Adams, Magneuris Sierra, and the Kevin Pillar controversyJohn and Heather discuss the Cardinals career of Matt Adams, the roster moves of the last weekend, and exclusivity caused by homophobia in sports.2017-05-2258 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #82: Social media, proposed rule changes, and the 1st Place BirdosJohn and Heather discuss controversy surrounding the Cardinals Twitter account, thoughts on Cardinals starters and outfield situation, and proposed rule changes regarding extra innings in MLB.2017-05-151h 09Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #81: A look back at April, Wild Card predictions, and the Cardinals Hall of FameJohn and Heather discuss the top performers of the first month of 2017, Kolten Wong's horrible no good very bad May 1 game, and Mark McGwire's importance to the Cardinals franchise.2017-05-0241 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #80: Talkin' Birdos with Will LeitchJohn and Heather talk with Will Leitch of Deadspin, Sports on Earth, and a majority of the internet's websites about his experiences as a Cardinals fan, the relationship between national baseball media and Cardinals fans, the current state of the team, and many other topics.2017-04-251h 05Viva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #75: The MLB season preview editionJohn and Heather are joined by Viva El Birdos writer Alex Crisafulli to break down each's projected order of finish for each division in Major League Baseball in 2017.2017-03-1357 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #74: The Craig Edwards season preview episodeJohn and Heather are joined by Viva El Birdos managing editor Craig Edwards to discuss early Spring Training results and to forecast the 2017 Cardinals.2017-03-0748 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #73: Listener questions about future catcher dilemmas, the worst Cardinals players, and foodJohn and Heather are joined by Viva El Birdos writer Ben Markham to answer listener questions about Carson Kelly, Jaime Garcia, Kolten Wong, Aledmys Diaz, and other baseball and non-baseball topics.2017-03-0153 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #70: The Martinez extension, Pecota projections, and a pitching previewJohn and Heather are joined by Viva El Birdos writer/editor Joe Schwarz for another round of Cardinals trivia and to discuss Carlos Martinez's contract extension, forecasts for Cardinals pitching in 2017, and Baseball Prospectus's projected Cardinals record.2017-02-0749 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast #63: VEB Podcast #63: The Garcia/Holliday departures and examining potential Winter Meetings targetsJohn and Heather discuss the Cardinals careers of now ex-Birdos Jaime Garcia and Matt Holliday and consider such potential targets as Justin Turner, Adam Eaton, and Jarrod Dyson.2016-12-0649 minViva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast #56: State of the RotationJohn and Heather are joined by Ben Godar to discuss the latest Cardinals results, Matt Holliday, the state of the rotation, and some listener questions.2016-09-2255 minViva El Birdos PodcastVEB Podcast Episode 51: We're BackViva El Birdos Writer John Fleming and Editor Heather Simon discuss the Cardinals' recent success and potential playoff future, recent discussion on Carlos Martinez's maturity (and haircut), and baseball's attitude towards Aroldis Chapman.2016-08-1951 minViva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast 48: Aaron Schafer joins Craig Edwards to talk Cardinals free agency and the MLB DraftViva El Birdos Editor Aaron Schafer (aka red baron) joins Managing Editor Craig Edwards to talk about the Cardinals offseason so far and preview next year's MLB Draft.2015-12-1859 minViva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast 47: Aaron Finkel & Ben Humphrey discuss Lance Lynn's Tommy John surgery, Mark Buerhle, David Price, Marco Gonzales, Alex Reyes, Jason Heyward and Ben ZobristVEB editor emeritus Aaron Finkel joined site editor Ben Humphrey to discuss the Hot Stove season, including Lance Lynn, David Price, Mark Beurhle, Marco Gonzales, Alex Reyes, Jason Heyward, and Ben Zobrist.2015-11-151h 06Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast 46 - Jaime Garcia extension, John Lackey's forthcoming contract, the bullpen, and Alex ReyesVEB editor and Fangraphs writer Craig Edwards joins VEB site editor Ben Humphrey to discuss Jaime Garcia extension, John Lackey's forthcoming contract, the bullpen, and pitching prospect Alex Reyes.2015-11-0157 minViva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast 45: Aaron Schafer joins Ben Humphrey to preview the St. Louis Cardinals' offseasonViva El Birdos editor Aaron Schafer (aka The Red Baron) joins site manager Ben Humphrey to preview the St. Louis Cardinals Hot Stove.2015-10-251h 30Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast - Ep. 40 - Kolten Wong's slump; Randal Grichuk's health; the Cardinals' outfield depth chart; Nick Plummer and Bryce Denton's respective starts; and Corey LittrellBen Humphrey and Aaron Schafer discuss Kolten Wong's slump; Randal Grichuk's health; the Cardinals' outfield depth chart; Nick Plummer and Bryce Denton's respective starts; and Corey Littrell.2015-08-171h 10Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast - Ep. 38 - John Nagel & Ben Humphrey discuss the Barraclough-for-Cishek, Kaminsky-for-Moss, and Collymore-for-Broxton trades; the Cards' pitching prospect depth; which prospects have seen their stock rise and fall in 2015New Viva El Birdos prospect editor John Nagel makes his VEB podcast debut. He & Ben Humphrey discuss the Barraclough-for-Cishek, Kaminsky-for-Moss, and Collymore-for-Broxton trades; the Cards' pitching prospect depth; which prospects have seen their stock rise and fall in 2015.2015-08-021h 07Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast - Ep. 37 - Ben Godar and Ben Humphrey discuss the St. Louis Cardinals' second-half strength of schedule; the Steve Cishek trade; first-base trades; Stephen Piscotty; Randal Grichuk; and Matt Carpenter's mental slumpBen Godar and Ben Humphrey discuss the St. Louis Cardinals' second-half strength of schedule; the Steve Cishek trade; first-base trades; Stephen Piscotty; Randal Grichuk; and Matt Carpenter's mental slump.2015-07-271h 13Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast Ep. 36 - Craig & Ben discuss the 2015 MLB All-Star Game; wanting to watch Carlos Martinez pitch; how good Jhonny Peralta is as a SS; why Pete Kozma is on the roster; OF playing time after Matt Holliday's activation; Randal Grichuk aCraig Edwards, Fangraphs writer and Viva El Birdos Editor, joins Ben Humphrey, Viva El Birdos Editor-in-Chief to discuss the 2015 MLB All-Star Game; wanting to watch Carlos Martinez pitch; how good Jhonny Peralta is as a SS; why Pete Kozma is on the roster; OF playing time after Matt Holliday's activation; Randal Grichuk as trade bait; the Stephen Piscotty at 1B experiment; and the Cardinals' Franchise Four2015-07-1559 minViva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast - Ep. 35 - Jason Heyward's resurgence; Carlos Martinez's first half; Mark Reynolds is a rather bad everyday first baseman; and the latest in the FBI investigationSite manager Ben Humphrey and editor emeritus Aaron Finkel discuss Jason Heyward's resurgence; Carlos Martinez's first half; just bad Mark Reynolds is as an everyday first baseman; trade deadline considerations in the two-wild-card era, and the latest in the FBI investigation.2015-07-061h 02Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast - Ep. 34 - Ben Humphrey & Aaron Schafer discuss the St. Louis Cardinals' MLB Draft pick signings, potential trades, and Carlos Martinez's workloadAaron Schafer (The Red Baron) joins site manager Ben Humphrey to discuss the St. Louis Cardinals' signings of Bryce Denton and Harrison Bader as well as whether they have enough money left to sign tenth-rounder Kep Brown, whether St. Louis will add a first baseman or pitcher via trade, and whether Carlos Martinez's workload will allow him to start in October (if the Cards qualify for the postseason).2015-06-301h 28Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast - Ep. 33 - Ben Humphrey & Heather Simon discuss the FBI investigation of the St. Louis Cardinals, Lance Lynn's health, Jason Heyward's resurgence, and Randal Grichuk's hot startVEB Site Manager Ben Humphrey and Editor Heather Simon discuss the FBI's investigation of the St. Louis Cardinals for hacking the Houston Astros, Lance Lynn's health, Jason Heyward's resurgence, and Randal Grichuk's hot start.2015-06-221h 06Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast - Ep. 32 - Ben Humphrey and Joe Schwarz discuss 1987 Topps baseball cards, Ken Dayley, the 2015 MLB Draft, the Lance Lynn and Matt Holliday injuries, Jaime Garcia's performance to date, the Cards' need to add a pitcher, and Bo JacksViva El Birdos Podcast - Ep. 32 - Ben and Joe discuss 1987 Topps baseball cards, Ken Dayley, the 2015 MLB Draft, the Lance Lynn and Matt Holliday injuries, Jaime Garcia's performance to date, the Cards' need to add a pitcher, and Bo Jackson's physique2015-06-141h 03Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast Ep. 31: MLB Draft PreviewViva El Birdos editor-in-chief Ben Humphrey is joined by residence VEB draft guru Aaron Schafer (The Red Baron) and Future Redbirds editor Eric Johnson to discuss the 2015 MLB amateur draft, which will start this coming Monday, June 8 and conclude on Wednesday June 10. The trio discussed the St. Louis Cardinals' tendencies in the draft, their farm system's weaknesses heading into this year's draft, and what players they might select in the opening rounds.2015-06-041h 24Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast Episode 30: Assessing the Shelby Miller for Jason Heyward trade; assessing the John Lackey for Joe Kelly and Allen Craig trade; Jaime Garcia's 2015 debut; Marco Gonzales's injury; and whether a base-runner impacts the pitcherViva El Birdos editor-in-chief Ben Humphrey and Editor Nick Lampe discuss the St. Louis Cardinals' offseason trade of Shelby Miller (and Tyrell Jenkins) for Jason Heyward (and Jordan Walden), the July 2014 deadline deal that sent Allen Craig and Joe Kelly to Boston for John Lackey, Jaime Garcia's 2015 debut, what Marco Gonzales's nagging shoulder injury means, and whether a base-runner impacts the pitcher to the benefit of the hitter.2015-05-241h 00Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast Ep. 29: St. Louis Cardinals prospect discussion including Magneuris Sierra, David Poncedeleon, Rob Kaminsky, Alex Reyes, Aledmys Diaz, Stephen Piscotty, and moreViva El Birdos site manager Ben Humphrey is joined by Future Redbirds editor Eric Johnson to discuss St. Louis Cardinals prospects, including: Magneuris Sierra, David Poncedeleon, Rob Kaminsky, Alex Reyes, Aledmys Diaz, Stephen Piscotty, and more.2015-05-171h 04Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast Ep. 28: Carlos Martinez's struggles of late; Tyler Lyons, Marco Gonzales, Jaime Garcia, & the rotation; Matheny's bullpen usage pace; and Matt Carpenter's healthVEB Site Manager Ben Humphrey is joined by VEB Editor and Fangraphs writer Craig Edwards to discuss: Carlos Martinez's struggles of late; Tyler Lyons, Marco Gonzales, Jaime Garcia, & the rotation; Matheny's bullpen usage pace; and Matt Carpenter's health.2015-05-1059 minViva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast Ep. 27: Yadier Molina's hitting; Tim Cooney vs. Tyler Lyons to replace Wainwright; and the St. Louis bullpenBen Humphrey and Aaron Schafer discuss Yadier Molina's poor hitting, Tim Cooney's call-up and bad start, Tyler Lyons's prospects as the latest Waino replacement, Marco Gonzales's health, and bullpen roles and composition in the wake of the Jordan Walden injury.2015-05-041h 02Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast Ep. 26: The impact of Wainwright's injury; Jason Heyward and Matt Carpenter's plate approach and results; and Fernando Tatis's historic grand slamsBen Humphrey and Ben Godar discuss the impact of Adam Wainwright's injury on the St. Louis Cardinals, how a more aggressive approach has worked for Jason Heyward and Matt Carpenter so far this season, and Fernando Tatis's historic grand slams.2015-04-271h 12Viva El Birdos PodcastEpisode 25: Wacha's peripherals, Waino's rustiness, the timetable for Heyward negotiations, skinny Yadi, & Rosie's day offBen Humphrey and Scooter Simon of Viva El Birdos discuss Michael Wacha's odd peripherals through two starts, Adam Wainwright's rustiness, the timetable for a Jason Heyward extension, skinny Yadier Molina, and Trevor Rosenthal getting the day off. 2015-04-211h 09Viva El Birdos PodcastEpisode 24 - Minor League Opening Day Preview: Prospects to Watch Above and Below the Radar in 2015In celebration of opening day down in the minors, Viva El Birdos site manager Ben Humphrey discussed St. Louis Cardinals prospects with Future Redbirds editor Eric Johnson, VEB Editor Joe Schwarz, and VEB Editor Aaron Schafer. The discussion focused on prospects to watch in 2015, including those on and below the radar.2015-04-091h 18Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast episode 23:Carlos Martinez, the bench, the Cubs, and opening day thoughtsAs opening day approaches, Viva El Birdos' site manager Ben Humphrey talks with VEB editor and fangraphs writer Craig Edwards about the Cardinals' bench, now officially including Randal Grichuk and Pete Kozma, what they expect of newly minted 5th starter Carlos Martinez (Viva El Gallo!), and how things look for the arch-rival Cubs.2015-04-021h 02Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast episode 22in which Ben Humphrey and Aaron Schafer (the red baron) of vivaelbirdos.com talk about Jaime Garcia's latest health setback and what it means for the Cardinals' 5th starter battle. They also discuss recent issues with secondary pitch development in the system and consider whether it reflects organizational philosophy. Brief analysis of Sam Freeman's departure ends this episode.2015-03-291h 06Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast episode 21Ben Humphrey, site manager of Vivaelbirdos.com, talks with Eric Johnson of Future Redbirds, VEB's minor league wing, about the recently demoted Sam Tuivailala and Tim Cooney. They also discuss the Cardinals' and Cubs' contrasting strategies of talent acquisition and how prospect evaluation has changed in a shifting atmosphere of major league power. They wrap up with some general observations about the quality of competition spring training, Randal Grichuk, and why Pete Kozma will be in the major leagues come opening day.2015-03-2257 minViva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast episode 20Ben Humphrey and Aaron Schafer (the red baron) of vivaelbirdos.com discuss spring training developments after a week of play, Jaime Garcia's good start, the fifth starter competition and what should happen with Carlos Martinez and Marco Gonzales if Jaime starts the year in the rotation, how the nature and structure of the MLB playoffs affects organizational thinking, and miscellany.2015-03-161h 15Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast episode 19Ben Humphrey and Aaron Finkel of vivaelbirdos.com discuss Jason Heyward''s most recent comments on a possible extension with the Cardinals, whether Mark Reynolds might win a share of playing time at first base, if Pete Kozma might make the big league roster, and answer reader questions about WAR, Randal Grichuk's role, and if Matt Holliday could move to first.2015-03-081h 04Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast episode 18Ben Humphrey and Joe Schwarz of vivaelbirdos.com discuss Adam Wainwright's health in light of his recent abdominal strain, the not currently happening John Lackey extension, Yadier Molina's weight loss, high minors prospect Jonathan Rodriguez, and make their prediction for the Cardinals 2015 position player WAR leaders.2015-03-011h 08Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast 17Ben Humphrey, site manager at Vivaelbirdos.com talks to Craig Edwards of Viva El Birdos and now fangraphs.com about the recent Cole Hamels trade rumors, especially as they pertain to the Cardinals and Carlos Martinez. They also make their picks for spring training surprises, discuss Michael Wacha's situation, the bench infielder spring competition, analyze the Birds' 2015 batting order options, and talk about Craig's new gig writing for fangraphs.com2015-02-221h 11Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast episode 16In this extended episode, Ben Humphrey and Aaron Schafer of vivaelbirdos.com talk about new Cardinal Carlos Villanueva, the 2015 bullpen construction, Marco Gonzales and Carlos Martinez, Jon Jay's new contract, Matt Adams, and what competing in the new look NL Central will require, as well as answer listener questions about Adam Wainwright's elbow and Trevor Rosenthal's job. Miscellany such as minor league ballpark architecture, the awful process of baseball arbitration, the sailed ships Lester and Scherzer, and vintage Redbird logos are also pondered. 2015-02-152h 10Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast 15Ben Humphrey and Aaron Finkel of vivaelbirdos.com discuss the shifting pitching market, news from the Cardinals' winter warm-ups, getting to know Jason Heyward, Lance Lynn's extension, and Jaime Garcia's possible availability. 2015-01-181h 06Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast 14Ben Humphrey and Joe Schwarz of Vivalebirdos.com celebrate the winter holiday known as "Cardinals ZiPS release day" by discussing pitcher inning expectations and making over/under calls for each Redbird position player's projected WAR. The last spots in the bullpen and bench are also considered.2015-01-041h 31Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast 13in which Ben Humphrey and Aaron Schafer (the red baron) of vivaelbirdos.com do a position by position breakdown to answer a listener email asking if the Cardinals are better heading into 2015 than they were heading into 2014. The Jordan Walden extension and John Mozeliak's bullpen philosophy are also discussed.2014-12-291h 48Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast episode 12Ben Humphrey and Aaron Schafer (the red baron) of vivaelbirdos.com discuss the winners of the Cardinals' organizational minor league player of the year awards, the future roles of Carlos Martinez and Marco Gonzales, the Reds and advanced Jocketty theory, the Cardinals bench, and Mike Matheny's platoon perspective.2014-12-211h 10Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos podcast episode 11Ben Humphrey and Craig Edwards of vivaelbirdos.com discuss the winter meetings, the new-look Cubs, Max Scherzer's free agency, the Cardinals' pitching depth, a potential extension for Lance Lynn, and the Mark Reynolds signing.2014-12-141h 06Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast 10Ben Humphrey is joined by Eric M. Johnson, editor of Future Redbirds, the minor league wing of Vivaelbirdos.com. This episode features a look at players throughout the Cardinals' farm system, especially focusing on position player prospects.2014-12-031h 17Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast 9: An interview with Ty KellyNew Cardinal Ty Kelly joins Ben Humphrey and Joe Schwarz of vivaelbirdos.com to discuss Kelly's experiences in the minors, patient hitting approach, musical tastes, and more. 2014-11-3036 minViva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast 8Ben Humphrey and Aaron Finkel of vivaelbirdos.com talk about the Jason Heyward trade, his future with the Cardinals, Jon Lester and other hot stove rumors and plans, as well as John Mozeliak's handling of the tension between the future and the now of the St. Louis Cardinals.2014-11-191h 02Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast 7The first VEB editors' roundtable. Ben Humphrey, Craig Edwards, Joe Schwarz, Heather Simon, Eric Johnson, and Aaron Finkel of vivaelbirdos.com talk about the St Louis Cardinals NLCS performance and look ahead at what to expect from Kolten Wong, Matt Carpenter, and the Cardinal rotation next season.2014-10-191h 22Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast 6Ben Humphrey and Aaron Schafer (the red baron) discuss the St Louis Cardinals, their NLDS victory over the Dodgers, their upcoming NLCS date with the Giants, and the playoffs in general.2014-10-091h 27Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast 5Ben Humphrey and Aaron Finkel of Vivaelbirdos.com discuss the St Louis Cardinals' 2014 NL Central crown, the ethics of rooting for Johnny Cueto, the Cards' fifteen year stretch of excellence, and the playoff roster.2014-09-291h 17Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast 4Ben Humphrey and Craig Edwards of vivaelbirdos.com talk about the decision the Cardinals face with the rotation, Shelby Miller's development, playoff bench construction, and playoff managing.2014-09-1955 minViva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast 3Ben Humphrey and Aaron Finkel of vivaelbirdos.com discuss the St Louis Cardinals' playoff push, concerns about the rotation, how the bench and bullpen are shaping up, and more.2014-09-121h 00Viva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast 2Ben Humphrey and Joe Schwarz discuss the Cardinals moving into first place, Matt Holliday, Justin Masterson, the redbird rotation and Michael Wacha, and September call-ups.2014-09-0240 minViva El Birdos PodcastViva El Birdos Podcast 1Ben Humphrey and Aaron Finkel discuss Carlos Martinez, Trevor Rosenthal, Jhonny Peralta, the Cardinals Diet, and Lance Lynn.2014-08-2254 minViva El Birdos PodcastA Sample Episode of the Viva El Birdos PodcastBen Humphrey and Aaron Finkel discuss Justin Masterson2014-08-1905 min