Episode 298: MLB Trade Deadline, WNBA, and More

[00:19–04:19] Vacation Talk & NCAA Football Frustrations
Chris and Greg open with vacation chatter, complaining about back-to-back trips and how travel changes with kids. Chris shares a failed attempt to play NCAA College Football 26 due to expired cloud saves, instead binge-watching The Traitors season one.

[04:20–07:20] Phillies Trade Deadline Needs
The duo jumps into MLB trade deadline talk. Greg insists the Phillies need a reliable lefty bullpen arm, while Chris pushes for a big swing, suggesting Steven Kwan and closer Emmanuel Clase. Both agree prospects should be traded for proven talent.

[07:21–11:10] Brandon Marsh Debate & Stat Tirade
Chris and Greg debate Brandon Marsh’s underwhelming performance, citing his negative WAR and poor hitting against lefties. Greg rants about advanced baseball stats like WAR and BABIP, arguing eye tests matter more. Oddsmakers still have the Phillies as NL East favorites, which surprises Chris.

[11:11–14:24] Phillies Lineup Issues & Schwarber Praise
They criticize Bryson Stott’s inconsistency and call Max Kepler a locker-room disaster. Meanwhile, Kyle Schwarber’s 3.1 WAR season earns praise as a “vibes guy.” Both want Edmundo Sosa to get more at-bats over struggling starters.

[14:25–18:05] MLB Trade Targets Breakdown
Greg reviews top trade candidates: Eugenio Suárez’s power surge makes him highly coveted, Ryan O’Hearn could spark an Orioles shakeup, and Adolis García’s inconsistent bat may still draw offers. Cedric Mullins is seen as a strong outfield option for contenders.

[18:06–22:15] Surprise Trade Chips & Nationals Fire Sale
The Nationals reportedly shopping Mackenzie Gore surprises both hosts, given his breakout year. They also discuss Sandy Alcantara’s post-Tommy John struggles and declining value despite Cy Young pedigree.

[22:16–26:05] WNBA All-Star Game Critique
The WNBA All-Star game gets slammed for being dominated by long-range shots, with Angel Reese and A’ja Wilson hoisting threes. Sabrina Ionescu’s four-point shot is noted, but Greg calls the game “boring gimmick basketball.”

[26:06–29:15] WNBA Standings & Team Outlooks
Chris and Greg debate the Liberty’s dominance and the Lynx’s rise. They express surprise at the Aces’ struggles and note oddsmakers have them at 23.5 wins—lower than expected. Caitlin Clark’s injury-riddled Fever season is also discussed.

[29:16–33:00] NFL Training Camp Drama
Training camp controversies take center stage. The Commanders upset Terry McLaurin by signing big-name players like Debo Samuel but delaying his extension. Chris contrasts this with Howie Roseman’s player-friendly approach in Philadelphia.

[33:01–36:15] Micah Parsons & Cowboys Contract Issues
Greg predicts Jerry Jones will finalize Micah Parsons’ deal just before opening day for media buzz. Both criticize Dallas for waiting, pointing out rising edge rusher salaries due to market resets from T.J. Watt and Myles Garrett.

[36:16–39:10] Caleb Williams Passing Goal Debate
Bears coach Ben Johnson’s goal of 70% completion for rookie QB Caleb Williams sparks debate. Chris fears turning him into a dink-and-dunk passer, while Greg argues he should be unleashed as a downfield playmaker.

[39:11–43:00] Wrexham Transfer Frenzy & FX Doc Talk
Chris updates Greg on Wrexham’s signings, including Ryan Hardie, Danny Ward, Liberto Cacace, George Thomason, and Josh Windass. They discuss the FX spinoff on a Mexican club and question the decision to release it mostly in Spanish, potentially alienating U.S. fans.

[43:01–46:30] ChatGPT Soccer Lineup Fun
Chris shares how he used AI to simulate Wrexham’s Championship lineup and get transfer suggestions. Greg marvels at AI’s accuracy, joking about its scary capabilities.

[46:31–End] Closing Thoughts & Soccer Odds
They wrap up discussing oddsmakers setting Wrexham as underdogs (+355) vs. Southampton. Chris notes how rare it is for a fan-favorite team not to be overvalued. Greg reflects on Wrexham’s National League betting days as much easier wins.