Shows
Just Your Opinion, Man2025 SF Giants Season Preview with Walter IcabalcetaSend us a textSteven & Derek react to the Warriors terrible 26-point loss to the Miami Heat and then merge JYOM with Walter Icabalcelta's podcast "Passion for the Pastime." The fellas react to the Giants off-season, discuss Buster Posey's impact and expectations for the season. Along with picking their division winners, wild card teams & World Series picks for this baseball season. Catch Walter Icabalceta on Passion for the Pastime on YouTube & Twitter Monday-Friday https://www.youtube.com/@PassionforthePastimeSupport the show
2025-03-262h 05
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime with Walter Icabalceta | 12/9/24 - What's next from the Winter Meetings?
Buster Posey opened up the Winter Meetings with a bang, signing Willy Adames to the richest contract in the Organizations history. What does this move mean for the Organization? Are the Giants done? What should the next move be? In other news, Juan Soto signs biggest contract in baseball history, with Dodger and Yankees missing out, how does this affect the remaining pool of free agents? Follow & Subscribe to Passion for the Pastime on YouTube and everywhere you get you podcasts.
2024-12-101h 07
Passion for the Pastime2022 NL WEST PREVIEWThe wild wild NL West did not disappoint last year and the same might be said for the 2022 season. The heavy favorite to win it all, Los Angeles Dodgers against a San Francisco Giants team that is asked to prove that 107 wins a year ago wasn't a fluke. Then you have the Padres with their pitching depth and the added piece of manager Bob Melvin who will be looking to flip the script of the Padres in recent years of always coming up short. The Rockies look to play dark horse in the division as they just added former...
2022-04-061h 48Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: 2020 Winter MeetingsWelcome to the Winter Meetings 2020. Like much of 2020 the meetings will take on a new look being completely virtual, but that does not mean there will not be action. Is Nolan Arenado on his way out of Colorado? Will Blake Snell have a new team? Is Trevor Bauer the missing piece for a contender out west? Here are the latest rumors of free agents and trades leading up to the Winter Meetings.
2020-12-0538 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Awards SeasonOn this episode we will talk about some off season managerial changes as well as the awards given out for the Off Season such as Cy Youngs and MVPs.
2020-11-0955 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: World Series Champions? I THINK NOT!We have made it through to the end of the World Series. So lets break it down and react to the results. You getting all the feels in this one and Im not holding back.
2020-10-2823 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: World Series Stage is SetThe stage is set for the 2020 Covid World Series set. The Los Angeles Dodgers will return to the World Series for the third time in four years to take on the AL-Best Tampa Bay Rays, who are returning to the World Series for the first time since 2008. Here's how they got there, with a recap of the LCS and a World Series preview and predictions.
2020-10-1944 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: And then there were EightIn this episode we will take a look at the 8 remaining teams and look at the matchups. A lot of Bad Blood in this Division Series.
2020-10-0627 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: As something ends, another beingsThe 2020 regular season has just concluded and it doesn't feel right. Thankfully we have plenty of postseason baseball coming our way. Talking bracket world series picks and much more.
2020-09-2926 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: This is itThis is it. This is the last weekend of the regular season. It was quick but fun. It all comes down to this. The American Leagues is worried about seeding meanwhile the National Leagues is just trying to get in the dance. Here is everything you need to know ahead of the weekend.
2020-09-2526 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: The Final StretchWe are getting down to the final stretch as teams try to assert themself into a playoff spot. Thoughts on the playoff format and no booze celebrations. Dodgers, White Sox, and Rays have already clinched berths, with many teams hoping to clinch this weekend. The Yankees continue to stay hot and breaking history while they are at it and the Reds are the surprise, out of nowhere team. Many teams in the mix and only a handful of games, now let the fireworks begin.
2020-09-1837 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Two Weeks LeftTwo weeks remain in the regular season and on the biggest sports day in recent memory, with the NFL kicking off. Baseball roars right back into the headlines. Albert Pujols finally reach Mays, after a month between 659 and 660, but he finally did it. But to join him, just like on many of his historic days, is a Chicago Cubs by the name of Alec Mills, who threw the clubs 16th franchise no-hitter on the same day Pujols hit 660. As the regular season of football begins, the regular season for baseball is nearing its end. With two weeks left, many...
2020-09-1443 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Heroes get remembered, Legends never dieIn this episode, we will remember the legend of Tom Terrific, Tom Seaver as he passed away at the age of 75. Also, talk baseball and how the Mets paid tribute to Seaver and what has been going on with Yankees and the entire NL East. Clayton Kershaw reaches yet another milestone to add to his resume for Cooperstown.
2020-09-0446 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Who's your Padre?The trade deadline has ended and the Padres have made a statement. We are ready and arent going anywhere. Padres made some big noise at the deadline, by adding some key pieces as they attempt to tip the scales of power and challenge the Dodgers. Dodgers, on the other hand, did nothing at the deadline and welcome the challenge for the division and the national league as both teams have the top two records in the national league.
2020-09-0129 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Only Half way ThereAs we approach the half way point, we review the divisions and how the current playoff format would look if the playoffs ended today. Also with tons a rookies making their debuts, its fun to look back on some of the game best debuts because one of these rookies could be the next superstar of the league.
2020-08-2441 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Beginnings and EndingsOn this episode of Passion for the Pastime, we will be looking at a key debut for the San Francisco Giants. As rookies across the league make their first starts, some may be making their last starts. For their current teams that is. The ever so mysterious trade deadline is only days away and with some much to be determined, there is no telling how this deadline will go down. Names have been rumored and teams who can be buyers and sellers, if there is any major action at all in this already strange season.
2020-08-2152 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Unwritten RulesIts time to talk baseball. In this episode, we remember Roberto Clemente on what would have been his 86th birthday. Also, we will look at the player closest to replicate Clemente's unique style, in Fernando Tatis Jr. as he has now opened the door of baseball's unwritten rules.
2020-08-1825 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: For the RecordThe wild west just got wilder. With Mookie Betts heating up and writing the record books, Charlie Blackmon looks to write some history of his own. Will the public look at any accomplishments in 2020 as less than? We are talking records, Mookie's greatness and playoff bubbles. Yes that is now a thing.
2020-08-1439 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: A Wild WeekendTo say this weekend was just another normal weekend would do a disservice to the game. This weekend had everything. Upsets, great games, long balls you name it. Even weird things like losing a no-hitter due to brightness, in a night game. Oh and a player being sent home, like he was a bad kid in school for breaking the rules. Even a heated discussion in Oakland, which at first doesnt seem like much, until you look at the grand picture, and take into account who the teams were. This weekend was just a reminder of how unpredictable sports...
2020-08-1048 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: A look around the LeagueWe are talking everything baseball past as we reflect on 756 with Barry Bonds breaking Hank Aaron's HR record. We will also look at the present state of baseball with the Cardinals testing postive again, what that means for them and baseball as well as looking at other series all around the league.
2020-08-0744 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Buying or Selling2 weeks in and baseball is in full swing, sort of. Teams havent skipped a beat amid Covid, some even exceeding expectations. Is it too early to tell about what these teams will be? Oakland, Rockies, Padres, Cubs, and South side White Sox are hot teams with the expected Dodgers, Twins and Yankees, but which teams are you buying and selling. Teams that were shut down will be returning to games by the end of the week and it is a much needed restart to baseball. Andrew McCutchen felt some type of way about the way the Marlin's outbreak went...
2020-08-0559 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Weekend RecapWe have alot to get to in this one. From Opt Outs to Walk Offs. From Covid updates to chasing history. It is all here on the latest episode of Passion for the Pastime.
2020-08-031h 02Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Hero or ZeroIs someone who intentionally throws at a batter a hero? In this case, it depends who you ask. Joe Kelly threw at the Astros in response to their recent sign stealing scandal, and you either hate it or you love it. Regardless of how you feel, baseballs punishment sent a clear message. None of this will happen during the pandemic, or maybe even ever because of how hung up Manfred is on protecting the Astros. This next one isn't up for debate, the Marlins player who exposed his team, is a zero. As the Marlins are sitting in a...
2020-07-3043 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: The OutbreakWith the good news, come bad news. Baseball returned to our tv screens, but no one is immune to Covid-19, as players from the Marlins organization have tested positive for Covid. At first it was four, now it is an upward of 14 players and staff. Mlb has responded by cancelling games of the Marlins- Orioles and Phillies-Yankees, in order to protect their players. Phillies -Yankees was cancelled due to the Marlins recently being in the visiting ballpark at Citizens Bank Park, were the Phillies would play host to the Yankees. If you were uncertain about the season before, now...
2020-07-2717 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Return of the Big FlyThe first weekend of baseball is in the books and i never realized how much I've missed the big fly. Well we were spoiled with homeruns last season, but a couple of the big flys have been majestic, you can't help but admire them. Stanton got the party started and kept it going. It seems like every homerun hit this year has a different sound and go 450 plus. There was also the return to the mound with Otahni taking the mound for the first time since 2018. I think he may have forgotten how to pitch because he couldn't even...
2020-07-2746 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: One Down, Sixty-six to GoThe first day of the regular season did not disappoint one bit. We had a first pitch that summed up 2020 as a whole. Rain storms and floods, debuts of Cole and Mookie, and proof that Pennywise may exist. This is only the first of many strange days of the 2020 season. I'm just lucky to be alone for the ride.
2020-07-2442 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: A Day to RememberWe have made it! It is finally Opening Day. After waiting for month for the start of the season. No this is not a dream. It is reality and with that reality comes changes. Our world, our game looks a little different in 2020. Amid Covid-19 and social inequality, this season will surely be one to remember. Blue Jays are homeless, no fans, players kneeling, new season format and rule changes. This season will defiantly look and feel different. I think i speak for everyone when I say, I cant wait to see what this season brings. I mean it...
2020-07-2357 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Stand for what is RightIts ironic that during these times, some say, stand for what is right. What is i told you, by kneeling, it is standing up. Is it a hard concept to grasp. Do people just not want to listen. Bruce Maxwell tried it a few years ago in 2017, and not all but some booed him for it. Now fast forward to 2020, on that very same field, players along with Gabe Kapler, manager of the San Francisco Giants, took a knee to stand up for social inequality and police brutality. Again we have these conversations, because this isn't an overnight fix...
2020-07-2133 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Opening Week UpdateWith Opening Week upon us, we are only a few days away from the start of the regular season. As the day is coming closer, some last minute changes for mlb clubs. Some approved and others denied. But if a team needs to relocated, how important is home field with no fans? Update for players with Covid, the former Atlanta Brave, Yasiel Puig has tested positive and will no sign with the Braves. So was he even a Brave? Speaking of Braves and Covid, Freddy Freeman spoke out on his experience with Covid, and it was a powerful message...
2020-07-2031 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Home Sweet Home?With Opening Day just one week away, a superstar outfielder has finally found a home. Yasiel Puig will be heading to the ATL, joining the Braves. If Jermaine Dupri's "Welcome to Atlanta" isn't Puig's walk up song in his first at bat of the season, I will be very, very disappointed. Good for Puig on finding a home. Not all can be said for a few clubs, facing certain uncertainty entering into the final week before the season begins. Multiple teams due to Covid response may need to relocate, including the season's first game between the Yankees and Nationals...
2020-07-1725 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: MLB Covid-19 Update and Player Opt OutsWe have made it through another week of summer camp and that puts baseball fans one week closer to the start of the season. Before we get there , we have some Covid-19 updates. MLB released their stats on Covid testing since testing started on June 27th. 83 total positive cases since then, with 66 something from the initial intake testing and only 17 since then. A large number but it all depends on how MLB moves forward to keep the virus from spreading. It wont be a easy road but it isn't impossible. With testing and life challenges, players continue to Opt...
2020-07-1356 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Dropping the BallBaseball has returned for Summer camp and not even a week in, there are problems across the board with Covid testing. Testers not showing up, tests results being delayed, long wait periods between testing, making all who are involved at ask. Sure, problems were expected, its a new process, but MLB really needs to kick it into gear before more players opt out. Will more players opting out each day, those who are on the fence, may be leaning away from the game, than toward playing. If MLB can figure it out, because all problems are fixable, we do...
2020-07-0739 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: A New BeginningTeams are back home and ready to begin Summer Camp. As ball park cams show us the workouts and batting practice, you cant help but get excited for baseball to finally be back. But i guess we missed some baseball along the way. As some players played in a sandlot style game during quarantine. Thanks for the memo. But as we await to release of the 2020 schedule to be released next week, we have some things to address. Blue Jays will be in Toronto for Summer Camp, but where will they play their regular season? National league now has...
2020-07-0346 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: One Time at Summer Camp....Spring Training 2.0 is HERE! Or should I say Summer Camp? Whatever you want to call it, the bottom line is that baseball is back. It defiantly won't look the same. No I don't mean camp fires and smores. I mean the among of top prospects joining the rosters. We are expected to see some of the top talent at some point this season and that just adds to the excitement if you weren't jumping for joy to begin with. With Covid still surging, some are skeptical that there will even be a season. Not all players will be at...
2020-07-0140 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Guess Who's BackBaseball is back! Words that I think we all thought we wouldn't hear in 2020. But baseball is back. It wasn't pretty, it still isn't but at least we will have baseball again. Some changes coming to baseball this year is the universal DH and a big one is the new extra innings rule. I mean we have to have something to argue about don't we?Moving forward ,players will return to team camps by next week and Opening Day will be July 24. We all know the challenges facing baseball with Covid-19, and that is still a big factor in...
2020-06-2450 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: So Long BaseballIt is becoming more and more evident that the 2020 MLB season will be cancelled. I don't know about you but I am extremely disappointed that these people who represent America's Pastime, can figure out how to bring joy to fan again.
2020-06-1624 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: The Future of BaseballThe future of baseball are looked at in two different lights right now. How will baseball get a season done and how will life be after Covid-19 as well as the 2020 MLB Draft. We will focus on the draft mostly, seeing how MLB is trying to keep up with NFL and even NBA draft skeptical. Also looking at who can possible be the next Mike Trout or Justin Verlander. The new format and how it will effect baseball for years to come. But how can we figure out the future when the league cant decide if they will play...
2020-06-1039 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Listen UpIt is time to listen everyone. Not just to the podcast but to everyone who is asking for your help. The black community, black lives matter are willing to educate but it takes too to tango. Major league baseball may be behind in the times but many players are not. They are becoming leaders, becoming listeners, educating themselves and others. For too long we have been divided and if this truly is America's pastime, follow the players example of being the change.
2020-06-0842 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Enough is EnoughBefore we get to sports discussion, there is something else we need to talk about. Due to recent events of police brutality and protesting as a result, I have decided to pull away from regular sports talk and open up the discussion. Enough is enough and I am speaking for those who need to be heard. Welcome to the conversation and lets get through this together. It may make you uncomfortable and thats ok. Now think about the injustices done every day and how uncomfortable they feel. Now is the time to stop and listen, educate and take action...
2020-06-0426 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Across the CounterBaseball's clock is ticking and this is the week. Baseball owners and players know it, as we have already seen more counter proposals being introduced. If something was to happen it is this week. The MLBPA and owners are discussing money but in the form of games to be played because owners latest counter has said full prorated salaries but with much less game than the 114 games proposed by MLBPA. This is progressing in the right direction, but how do you feel of a season as long as 50 games. Does the champion of this season have any legitimate standing...
2020-06-0226 minPassion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Crunch TimeWe are now at the end of May and still, no deal has been reached between Owners and Players to begin the season. There is still time for a deal to be done, but the clock is ticking. Many of us can imagine baseball not being played in 2020 but its starting to be a bigger possibility with each passing day. A new proposal was made to the Players association and it is not looking promising, with some players speaking out that there may not be baseball this season. Its a bad look in these times to be arguing about...
2020-05-2730 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Last Dance- Baseball EditionWhile we are staying home, with no sports, we are always looking for something to watch. The Last Dance, a documentary on Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls, has been a saving grace through these hard times. Now we are itching for more. On this podcast, the fans decided on topics you would like to see turned into a Last Dance style documentary, and here are the results as well as some historic curses, I would love to see in a documentary.
2020-05-2048 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: The War BeginsAs we all wait for sports to resume, there may be some obstacles in the way. Baseball is no different. With health and safety at the forefront of the conversations being hand with MLB and the Players association, the financial impact is also a big topic and a big hurdle to overcome. Here is a look at the proposed plan for MLB to continue in 2020. Will a deal be struck? We all hope so, but the clock is ticking, if we want to have baseball in 2020.
2020-05-1548 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Return of baseball.... Sort ofPlayers league has it's first champion and the Dream bracket as crowns the ultimate franchise. Are you tired of baseball simulations and want to watch some real baseball. Well your prayers have been answered, but next time be more specific. Base has indeed returned, but no state side. Rather, it has returned in South Korea in the KBO. A ten team league has returned. Interesting enough that MLB has proposed three, ten team leagues to somewhat mirror that of the KBO. KBO baseball is in its first week, and everything is going smoothly for now. The sound of the ball...
2020-05-0844 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Here's the PlanI am the man, the man with a plan. Not really my plan, but I am the man that knows of a man, who knows of a man with a plan. Baseball continues it's search for a solution to starting baseball again. This latest plan seems to be the most realistic. Is it still a long shot? Yes. Will it still take a while? Yes, but all good things take time. In the meantime, we do actually have some live "sports" to watch. Players representing their respective teams have been competing for about 2 and half weeks by now and we...
2020-04-2943 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Memories with McCovey Cove DaveIn these times, baseball fans are in a wait and see mode. With no definitive date to return to baseball, and with the clock still ticking, a lot about the 2020 season is still up in the air. It is always fun to talk baseball, to keep that love and passion that we have for the game of baseball alive. This week, I spoke with McCovey Cove Dave, who is a staple for Giants fans at the ball park. You can see him at the game in his kayak, sitting in the cove, waiting for a ball to come his way...
2020-04-2726 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Slap on the WristWell the verdict came down earlier this week, and it wasn't what baseball fans expected. I guess cheating gets you a slap on the wrist. Maybe not even a slap, more of a tap, because the Red Sox didn't get anything for cheating. Blame placed in all directions except for the organization. But in these times we cant focus on the negative. A positive note from the Commissioners Officer, Rob Manfred fully expects baseball to resume in 2020, so there is still hope at the end of the tunnel. Until then lets watch grown adults play baseball games. No, seriously lets...
2020-04-2636 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime - Paving the WayQuarantine at home for players, isnt going well for some. In particular one Joe Kelly, who is now standing in the long lines at Home Depot. Former teammate of Joe Kelly, Yasiel Puig is in the headlines, but it isnt what you would come to expect for the 29 year old Cuban ballplayer. Since we are talking Dodgers, April 15th ,know by many as Jackie Robinson Day came and went. There was no baseball played. There was no players wearing the number 42. Instead it is a good time to reflect. What did Jackie mean to you? To the sport of Baseball...
2020-04-2235 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime - Our Dream LineupsWell since last podcast, and we have been talking about the Dream Bracket tournament taking place, we have decided to create our own lineup ups. Joined again by Jess "Black Sheep" Juarez, we go through all positions to create our team lineups. Only catch is that it has to be players from our life time. Great topic for debate, because there is no way someone will make the same exact list. This should be interesting.
2020-04-2132 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime - Gaming and Simulations, The New NormWhat do you do when there are no games to be played? You play games of course. A lot of you may think I'm losing my mind but, I have special Guest Jesse "Black Sheep" Juarez to help me explain because that is literally what MLB has decided to do. Players tournaments in their respective sports is the wave of the temporary new normal, with one representative for each MLB squad, playing MLB The Show for bragging rights for their squad. People are flocking to watch these players play games, which at one time, we all thought was a bit...
2020-04-2034 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime with Special Guest F.P. Santangelo Jr.With so much uncertainty in the world, the only certain thing is the love of baseball that fans all over this country share together. That love for the game can be felt in this podcast. This week I have a Special Guest, F.P. Santangelo Jr. to talk some ball, which in these times, can be one of the most normal things we can do. We reflect back on some memories of F.P. especially looking back at October 2019. We also share our thoughts on the efforts of MLB and their possible plan to get baseball playing again in the...
2020-04-1036 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime with Special Guest Adam CopelandNeed a pick me up with another week of shelter in place? Do not fear, I am here with another podcast but this time I brought in some reinforcements. Joining me on this weeks podcast is host of The Leadoff Spot on KNBR 104.5 and 680, Adam Copeland. On this podcast we discuss the plans moving forward with baseball, and with more events like Wimbledon being cancelled that extend into July, what does that mean for baseball? Then we take a trip down memory lane and think about baseball of the past, as we give our favorite moments of baseball from our...
2020-04-0246 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Stay busyGoing crazy yet in quarantine? I must say, I am enjoying it for the most part. Please be safe and stay healthy and shelter in place so this nightmare can be over sooner rather than later. We have some clarity as to when we can expect baseball to resume, and let me say, it may not be for some time. MLB network has been streaming games to keep us happy but is it the same feeling? If that doesn't hold you over, well what else should you do? I have a few suggestions. One involves your fingers and a smartphone...
2020-03-301h 03
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Opening Day MemoriesMarch 26, 2020 is the day that would be the start of the season. Opening Day, a day that is felt like a national holiday to some, will not happen on time. Its not a matter of IF, its a matter of WHEN. In the meantime, lets remember Opening Day. What did it mean to you? How did it make you feel? Feel like a therapy session yet? I remember what my first Opening day felt like. Partly because I still fell it, every year like I'm sure most of you do as well. The sights, the sounds, the smells (good and...
2020-03-2625 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Quarantine Update with Special Guest Jesse "B1vcksheep" JuarezHope everyone is doing well as we wrap up the first week of quarantine, going into week two with special Guest, Jesse "B1vcksheep" Juarez. Just two guys talking baseball, and everything related to baseball as we try to keep our sanity as the shelter in place is in full effect. Baseball, movies, gaming, beer and everything in between in this podcast.
2020-03-2252 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: Quarantined/ Week 1Live from your Quarantined studios, its time to talk baseball. I know the past week has seemed like a nightmare, but lets look at the bright side. Don't worry, I'll wait. All seriousness, being locking in a home with your family may not be a bad thing (week 1 in quarantine). Ask me again in a couple of weeks. First we will go through how the news breaking of sports and baseball not being around made me feel, as I'm sure most of you did. The response by MLB to stadium workers was a great thing to see as everyone is...
2020-03-2040 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: AL WestWe are back at it again, joined for the second straight podcast, my good friend Martin. This podcast we will be looking at the AL West. Touch on the sign stealing scandal and how we felt with the president of the 5'6" club was found to be a cheater. Being proud members of that club, it was devastating. But how good will the Astros be in 2020, and could the Oakland A's with all their youth, capitalize on this opportunity to seize control of the west. Again, you cant sleep on the giant down south, the Los Angeles Angels. With Maddon...
2020-03-1650 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: NL CentralWe will start by talking about the Coronavirus outbreak that is now interfferring with the sports world. All major sporting events have been suspended, with MLB being postponed for at least 2 weeks. We will continue to move forward and talk divisions but the start of the season at the moment is in question. Back to baseball. We have finally made it to the NL Central, which in 2019 was one of the toughest divisions to figure out. So for this one, I needed the big guns, special guest Martin Rivas is joining me on the podcast. Former University of San Diego...
2020-03-1339 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: AL CentralHope you all had a great weekend. Mine got off with a bang, as I attended the KISS concert, survived a rain storm and drove for what felt like 24 hours, all in a matter of 3 days. As we blast some Detroit Rock City, this week we will be looking at the AL Central. This division has to be one of the most intriguing divisions in the American League. The winners of the off season, the team on the south side of Chicago, The White Sox. They added the most pieces this off season, but that doesn't always translate to regular...
2020-03-1037 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime: AL EastWho is the beast in the East? Well for as long as we can all remember it has been the team sporting the pinstripes. this 2020 season, could be a bit different. Yankees still have a lot of fire power on offense but the injury bug just wont leave them, taking Severino for the season and Stanton off of the Opening Day roster, with Aaron Judge's status very much in the air. This is the time for a team to catch the Yankees, and why not the team that was hot on the tail all of the 2019 season, Tampa Bay Rays...
2020-03-0646 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime - NL EastWelcome back to another Episode of Passion for the Pastime. This week we will begin to look at each individual division throughout baseball, and what better place to start than the most competitive division in MLB, the NL East. After all they do have the Defending World Series Champions, Washington Nationals. The Nats still boast one of the best starting rotations in all of baseball. Their offense, however, took a huge hit when they lost their star third baseman, Anthony Rendon, when he left for the Southern California Sunshine when he signed with the Angels. Fortunately for the Nats, they...
2020-03-0225 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime- Injury BugWelcome back to another episode of Passion for the Pastime. The injury bug has hit again in spring training, and I say again because it hit the Yankees hard AGAIN this season, and the season hasn't even technically started. Luis Severino, after missing much of 2019 due to injury will now miss all of 2020 as he needs Tommy John Surgery. We will look at the possible options moving forward for the Yankees in filling the void that Severino's injury will have in the starting rotation, whether in house or via trade. The injuries don't stop at Sevy for the Bronx Bombers...
2020-02-2831 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime - Getting it off my ChestWelcome back to another episode of Passion for the Pastime, and man oh man do I have some things to get off my chest. And not only my chest, the players chest as well as everyone is sounding off on the Astros sign stealing scandal. Trout, Judge and LeBron have all chimed in as well as others, so no one is hiding their feelings on it. Repercussions of the scandal could have Astros players under fire, and the over/under suggests that everyone has a reason to panic. But Manfred has stated that no player shall be hit intentionally or...
2020-02-2154 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime- Empty ApologiesWelcome back for another episode of Passion for the Pastime: A Baseball Podcast. On this weeks episode we will be discussing the newly proposed 14 team playoff format proposed for 2022. But we have changes for this season in 2020 as well, and I will discuss those as well, as they look to have a higher impact on the game than sign stealing, according to Jim Crane. The Astros have arrived to Spring Training and silence of sign stealing has been broken, sort of, and apologies have been issued, sort of. Bellinger had some thoughts to get off of his chest, and Carlos...
2020-02-1750 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime - Trades, Reunions and AccountabilityWelcome back to another episode of Passion for the Pastime: A Baseball podcast. Spring is upon us and we had one final Fan Fest for the San Francisco Giants before they start their journey in Arizona for 2020 Spring Training, among with everyone else who will be joining them for Spring Training as all teams will be reporting to camp this week. Fan Fest was incredible and I am excited to see this new era of Giants baseball. Mookie Betts and David Price, will now be a part of the story, not as an allies, but as an enemies. Mookie and...
2020-02-1030 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime - BlockbusterWelcome back for another episode of Passion for the Pastime: A Baseball Podcast. The Houston Astros sags still continues, as now their vacancies have been filled. Welcome in Dusty Baker and James Click as Manager and GM for the 2020 seaoson. Will Dusty be able to hold down the fort in Houston? I think he is the right and only guy for the job. and this just in.....BLOCKBUSTER! Kids now don't even know what blockbuster is, but we do, and who other than Hollywood to be involved in a huge blockbuster deal. A lot of moment in this one as 3...
2020-02-0536 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime - Off Season BuzzWelcome Back to another episode of Passion for the Pastime: A Baseball Podcast. This off season has defiantly had a different "buzz" to it, compared to recent years. Not only were the Astros found cheating with cameras but there have been other reports of buzzers used under players uniforms. When will this nightmare end? Of course those claims have been denied, but if someone confronted you of cheating, would you admit it? Looks like MLB will need to issue another immunity play to finally get the truth. But enough about how the game has lost our trust, lets now remember...
2020-01-2444 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime- What goes around, comes back aroundWelcome back baseball fans. This is Passion for the Pasttime: A Baseball Podcast, and this offseason there has not be a shortage of drama. It all starts with the Houston Astros sign stealing scandal, which is the starting point with AJ Hinch. Then it branches off to Alex Cora, Carlos Beltran and others. Did the punishment fit the crime? and if it didnt, how much more or less would you give to the individuals and organizations. In other news, Josh Donaldson finally signs with the Minnesota Twins, adding a guy who hit 37 HR in 2019, to a team that hit 307, a...
2020-01-1630 min
Passion for the PastimePassion For the Pastime- Huge PaydayThe Winter Meetings have come and went, and 3 players did not go home, some to their new homes, empty handed. Strasburg, Cole and Rendon racked up a combined $814M in a matter of 3 days, all thanks to Scott Boras. Now we have other clients of Boras waiting to sign next. Tons of moves made but some teams still have unfinished business. Where will Madison Bumgarner end up? Id like for it to be in LA but only time will tell. Mad Bum is that next domino to fall for FA and then we will see who the true winners of...
2019-12-1459 min
Passion for the PastimePassion For the Pastime-Winter Meetings 2019Welcome to another episode of Passion for the Pastime: A Baseball Podcast. Joining me on the podcast is Jesse aka B1vcksheep as we talk up the event of the offseason, The Winter Meetings. Yes the meeting are upon us once again and we have another crop of stellar free agents. Some high profile players such as Moustakas and Grandal have signed with new sqauds but others are still on the open market. Where will Gerrit Cole, Steven Strausburg, Anthony Rendon among with others end up? Phillies seem to be buyers, and Reds and White Sox may look to join...
2019-12-081h 05
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime- Carmen Kiew Joins the PodcastWelcome to another episode of Passion for the Pastime: A Baseball Podcast. This week I have a special guest Carmen Kiew on the podcast. We talk about things to do in the offseason and then play a game of two truths and a lie. We discuss various topics in the baseball world including the scandal in Houston with sign stealing and Carmen gives her thoughts. We all talk about the 3 time MVP Mike Trout and what his mark and legacy to the game will be and if Trout is the GOAT. Carmen also expands on free agency and where she...
2019-11-2241 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime- And then there were TWOWe have made it to the Fall Classic 2019. We have the expected and the unexpected all packed into one. One team were heavy favorites to make it to the World Series and win in all and recapture the magic from 2017 in the Houston Astros, the most well rounded team in recent memory. Then you have the true underdog story of the Washington Nationals, who found themselves at 12 games below .500 in late May. But not only did they dig out of that whole, but they took care of the NL favorite in the Dodgers and destroyed the Cardinals in their route...
2019-10-2233 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime- Wild StartThe 2019 Postseason has kicked off with a BANG! Starting with the Bryce Harper less Washington Nationals and the Brewers. When their backs were against the wall with 4 out remaining, young Juan Soto stepped up big time for his team and capped off a 3 run 8th inning, that would land them a date with the LA Dodgers. But it doesnt end there, the battle of the Bays took place, with Oakland taking on the Tampa Bay Rays. But what happened next could not have been foreseen as the team that hit 4 homeruns, isnt who you thought it would be. Now that...
2019-10-0355 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime- Thank You Boch!This is a episode dedicated to the honorable Bruce Bochy. I talk about baseball, the love of the game and what Bruce Bochy meant to me personally, as well as Giants and Baseball fans everywhere. It was an honor to be at Bochy's last game as it all comes full circle, and the skip is and will always be FOREVER GIANT.
2019-10-0128 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime- Its Gut Check TimeAs the regular season comes to a close, baseball's second season is starting up. The match ups have been set and now we kick off October with the Wild Card Match-Ups. In the National league we have the stumbling Brew Crew with the fair share of walking wounded, taking on the Nationals in D.C. Max Scherzer trys to led his squad once again, but the Brewers have other plans. Brewers being one of the hottest teams down the stretch look to keep things rolling without their MVP and leader Christian Yelich. But their recent injuries and getting swept to...
2019-10-0128 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime- The Home StretchWelcome again to another episode of Passion for the Pastime, with yours truly. We have finally made it to the final week of the year, but now the question is who will make it. The Nationals will face a familiar face this week. Not once, not twice but FIVE TIMES!!! Nationals fans are all gasping for air, are friend turned foe, Bryce Harper returns to D.C. to spoil the party. Why is it so significant? Because the Brew Crew is hot on their trail, going 11-2 since losing MVP Candidate Christian Yelich. This last week has a lot of...
2019-09-2331 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime- One Last TimeAs the season draws to an end, teams lock up divisions and farewells are said. Bochy is giving his last road trip and trying to cap it off by reaching the 2000 win mark. Where better to do it than in historic Fenway Park. In other news, Dodgers wrap up the NL West for the 7th consecutive time, but will there be different results than the past, or are the just the latest version of the Atlanta Braves of the 90s. Mvp candidates Yelich and Trout out on injuries, opens the door for a Polar Bear to hold the HR Crown...
2019-09-1831 min
2019-09-0932 min
Passion for the PastimePassion For the Pastime- Get the BroomsWelcome back to another episode of Passion for the Pastime. A lot of great baseball this week, or not so great baseball, depends on what side of the ball you were on. Multiple teams got Swept this week. For some, not a big concern, for others, huge playoff hopes are being taken away. The Giants are one of them as they went into Wrigley and were on the bad end of a Sweep. Their cross bay rivals, Oakland Athletics, however took care of business and got their revenge on the New York Yankees and gave them a big fat L...
2019-08-2337 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime- Bryce, Bryce, BabyWelcome to another episode of Passion for the Pastime. The prodigal son has returned to form. Bryce Harper is back and looks determined. A focused, determined Harper is a scary site and that what he has been over the last two weeks. But what changed? In other news the young stud in Boston is having himself a career year and is he destined to be great like another Red Sox before him who accomplished the same milestone? Homeruns galore all around the league and Homeruns are not in short supply in Minnesota, especially with the return of their slugger Nelson...
2019-08-2055 min
2019-08-1628 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime- The Wild, Wild CardWelcome back to another episode of Passion for the Pastime! We had a great weekend of baseball and it only made the races for the Wild Card even harder. The Mets continued to roll against the Nats with a dramatic 9th innning comeback to start the weekend off with a bang. They took care of business. Giants answered the Liberty Bell as Philly and "The Silencer", Bryce Harper came into SF, but only walked away with 1 win as the Giants battle to stay alive by winning 3 out of 4. Yankees and Blue Jays squared off and the youth was on display...
2019-08-1347 min
2019-08-081h 03
Passion for the PastimePassion For the Pastime- Trolls in the BronxWelcome to another episode of Passion for the Pastime. The trolls are back, and this time they are wearing Pinstripes. Fresh off of their 4 game sweep, the Yankees troll the Red Sox and get revenge from last year by playing a classic hit from the 70s in the clubhouse. This long standing rivalry has gotten even better over the years with social media and this 4 game sweep may send Boston over the edge. Meanwhile the Yankees continue to role, despite fighting the injury bug. Tons of injuries are pilling on to playoff contenders but that didnt stop the playoff hopeful...
2019-08-061h 01
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime- Judgement Day Came and WentWelcome Back to another Episode of Passion for the Pastime. We survived Judgement Day, the Trade deadline went down and it did not disappoint. A lot of Players changed teams, minor tweaks and big changes. Teams are now ready for the stretch run. Astros add to their all ready stacked starting rotation. Braves give their bullpen a boost, all meanwhile the Yankees do nothing and I LOVE IT. And to top it off, THE SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS ARE GOING FOR IT! Baseball post trade deadline is going to be must watch and I cant wait for it to get started!
2019-08-0150 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime - More than a GameWelcome back to Passion for the Pastime! This week we had a lot of emotion in the game of baseball. Started by the Tyler Skaggs memorial. Angels wore 45 to honor their late friend/ teammate and pitched a no hitter in his honor. Players and fans alike let emotion take over and it was such a beautiful moment that end with a team of #45 jerseys left on the mound. Its moments like this that we realize that the players are human too, and its bigger than just a game. Moments like this is the reason we watch sports, because we experience...
2019-07-181h 09
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime- Future is NOWThe 2nd Half is upon us! But before we get to that, we had the Midsummer classic. The 90th All-Star Game. We had a great showcase of young talent to kick of the weekend with the Futures game, then the best Home Run Derby EVER, headlined by Vlad Jr. The all-star weekend reminds us why we love the game of baseball, and its safe to say the Future is bright, in fact, the Future is already here!
2019-07-111h 11
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime - FrienemiesWelcome Back to Passion for the Pastime for another exciting espisode of baseball talk. As we approach the All Star Break, I bring on Jesse Juarez, a depressed Dodger fan, a good friend of mine to do what we always do, Talk BASEBALL. My newest favorite player happens to share my opinion on the Dodgers World Series hopes, after he puts his money where his mouth is and make an outrageous bet with a Dodger fan at Dodgers stadium. Speaking about the Dodgers, Cody Bellinger said he will not participate in this years HR derby, but we have 8 young studs...
2019-07-071h 00
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime- Around the League in 60 DaysYet another weekend of exciting baseball, but nothing was better than the ground breaking history being made, and it wasnt even on US soil. The London Series was going down, and the runs kept coming. The first inning took an hour to finish. 12 runs were scored in that first inning, and 50 runs were scored in total in a two game series. Safe to say that MLB did well with catching interest in Europe. Since we are on the topic of travel, I have a special guest who is doing it all. His journey began in Denver, Co and his path...
2019-07-0235 min
2019-06-2849 min
2019-06-2444 min
2019-06-2142 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime- The return of the EmpireOn this weeks espisode, the Yankees have Stanton coming back for the IL, but that isnt the only addition to the Yankees this week, as they traded for Edwin Encarnacion over the weekend. The Yankees now have Murders Row 2.0 in the Bronx. But who will they grab for a pitching option. Will Mad Bum be a Yankee? Will Mad Bum be dealt at all? What ever the case may be, we are approaching Bums potential last start in LA as a Giant, and is Max Muncy and Bumgarner still fuming from last week? A lot of great baseball this past...
2019-06-1731 min
2019-06-1529 min
2019-05-1527 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime - To Bat Flip, or Not to Bat FlipWelcome back to another episode of Passion for the Pastime. Baseball season is in full swing. Teams continue hot starts, others fall further behind. Teams knocked back into reality and shown who the top dogs are. Yasiel Puig makes his return in L.A. Kershaw makes his return to the rotation. And league sources are now saying Vlad Jr. is coming up next week. But even with all this news, a topic seems to stand above it all and not even a month in, we have controversy. We have come back to the epic debate of the bat flip. It...
2019-04-2038 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime- Hot Starts or Real Deals?Welcome back Baseball fans for another episode of Passion for the Pastime- A Baseball Podcast. Two weeks in to the 2019 regular season and we have tons of action, enough for the entire season, all jam packed in two weeks. Great Defense, great pitching performanaces, pimping Homeruns, throwing at batters, Puig rushing the mound. We had a little bit of everything. Teams are off to a great start and exceeding expectations, none more than the Seattle Mariners. They have a huge week of games coming up as they challenge the Astros to test their hot start. and Jay Bruce has found...
2019-04-1332 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the Pastime - The DAY is Upon UsThe day had finally come baseball fans. For what has felt like an eternity, Opening Day is once again upon us. But not everyone will be a go for opening day, as they dreaded last week of spring training has claimed some victims, but not all have huge injuries, but alot of them had huge scares that made everyone's heart drop. Week of Opening Day and we still have players getting paid, which was a huge trend this spring. Goldschmidt, Blake Snell, and the latest ACE to receive an extension was Jacob deGrom. Thats right Mets fans, you can now...
2019-03-2634 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the PastimeOn this weeks episode, it is raining money for a couple of superstars. 12 years for $330 million? Thats chump change according to Mike Trout who is signing a 12 year extension worth $430 million with the Angels. So that dream scenario for Phillies fans was quickly shut down. But Trout wasnt the only one getting paid, Alex Bregman signed his extension with the Astros and Mookie Betts turned down his. But we are seeing a ton of money being thrown at players, who will be the first $500 million player? Eloy Jimenez? Vald Jr? Mookie Betts? Has he been born yet? Who knows but...
2019-03-2232 min
Passion for the PastimePassion for the PastimeIs anybody else itching for Opening Day. I know I am. On this weeks episode, we will talk about Bryce Harper settling into his new home in Philly and new walk up music. Rules changes to come for MLB, 13 pitcher minimum, 3 batter minimum, no mound visits and MLB "Election Day". The new rules to be discussed and implemented in 2020, my thoughts on these rule changes and how it effects players and the fan experience. Speaking of fan experience, have you heard Mookie Betts mic'd up in spring training, if you haven't you definitely should. But why stop there, why don't...
2019-03-1144 min