In today's episode of This Is Baseball, Brandon dives into the firing of MLB umpire Pat Hoberg and discusses the risks involved with sports gambling being largely legal and leagues partnering with gambling companies. He then goes on to analyze the current MLB Postseason format and weighs the pros and cons.

Brandon Johnson dives into the significant changes in Major League Baseball over the past decade, spotlighting Rob Manfred's tenure as commissioner. He discusses various rule modifications aimed at improving the pace of play and enhancing the overall fan experience, including the introduction of the pitch clock, the disengagement rule, and the universal designated hitter. Johnson shares his thoughts on how these changes have largely been positive, contributing to shorter game times and increased engagement from fans. He also addresses the controversial ghost runner rule in extra innings and the handling of the Houston Astros sign-stealing scandal. As he reflects on Manfred's impact, Johnson emphasizes that while not every decision has been universally praised, many have led to a brighter future for baseball.

This episode of "This Is Baseball" delves into the topic of mega contracts in Major League Baseball, focusing on some of the worst deals in recent history. Host Brandon Johnson highlights five significant contracts that failed to deliver the expected value, including those of Albert Pujols, Pablo Sandoval, Chris Davis, Robinson Cano, and Anthony Rendon. Each contract is examined not just for its financial implications but also for the impact on the teams involved and the players' performances. Johnson reflects on the challenges teams face when signing players to lengthy contracts, especially as they age and productivity wanes. As he explores these deals, he shares insights on how they shape the landscape of baseball and raises questions about their overall impact on the sport.

Lets take a look back at an episode from May of 2024 where I try to figure out to solve MLBs umpire issues. *This is a re-run of an episode published on an earlier date*

New episodes of This Is Baseball return in January 2025

With the Los Angeles Dodgers winning the World Series I thought it would be fun to take a look back at an episode I published in December of 2023. *This is a re-run of an episode published at an earlier date*

New episodes of This Is Baseball return in January 2025

In this episode, we congratulate the Los Angeles Dodgers for winning the 2024 World Series. We talk some highlights of the 2024 season and talk a little bit of free agency. We close the show by looking ahead to the future of This Is Baseball. I am excited about where we are headed and will have more to share with you in the future.

Please leave a review or rating if you are enjoying the show.

In the mean time, here are my other two podcasts, available on all platforms:

Football Kingdom:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3AsoevJHHOZ3v5poecN3L4?si=0tJ-H80-T56lQM4nhDPkzA

The Merge Feast:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Fmk2gEDJfVWJ8jAq22ux5?si=YeBIcWa0RyKugs4H-HX-lA

These podcasts are available everwhere.

On this episode we look at the rivalry of the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers. We'll compare rosters and see what team has the edge in this series.

On this episode of This Is Baseball we celebrate a season of exceeded expectations for the Royals. We look at some key players that contributed to the success of the team and go in depth on the ALDS matchup against the Yankees. We also talk LCS and our World Series wishlist.l