Podcast Summary: The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz Episode: Postgame Show: The Pitch Clock
Release Date: June 26, 2025

Introduction to "The Pitch Clock" Segment

In this episode of The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz, the hosts dive into their specialized baseball segment, "The Pitch Clock." This segment uniquely blends nostalgic baseball trivia with expert analysis, aiming to engage both hardcore fans and casual listeners.

Trivia Showdown: Testing Baseball Knowledge

The segment kicks off with the introduction of Taylor's return to "The Pitch Clock," greeted warmly by the hosts:

• Jack McMullen (Moderator): "Taylor's triumphant return to the Pitch Clock. Hi, Vermont Taylor. Hey man, it's good to see you here. I'm glad you're back." [00:39]

The trivia game revolves around identifying MLB teams based on their pitching rotations from past seasons. The hosts engage in playful banter, showcasing their competitive spirits and humorous interactions.

• Chris Cody: "I just want to... I want everyone to know that I know it. You look away." [05:05]

Despite initial struggles, Chris Cody makes a comeback, eventually clinching the win:

• Chris Cody: "Rockies. I knew it. I thought I said, man." [17:30]

Expert Insights: Jack McMullen’s Analysis

Jack McMullen, the Miami Marlins' radio play-by-play announcer and host of the Just Baseball podcast, provides in-depth analysis on current MLB stars and emerging talents.

Star Players: Cal Raleigh vs. Aaron Judge

A significant portion of the discussion centers on two standout players:

• Jack McMullen: "Cal Raleigh, the big dumper, leading Major League Baseball and home runs. At the time of this recording, he's at 32. And it has been a spectacular season." [06:12]

  He highlights Raleigh's historic performance, comparing his home run pace to legendary players like Barry Bonds and Aaron Judge.

• Taylor: "With Judge, you can only be far and away the best for so long... I do think Raleigh should be in position to do that." [06:43]

The conversation explores the possibility of Raleigh dethroning Judge for the AL MVP title, emphasizing Raleigh's remarkable achievements and consistent performance.

Emerging Talents and MLB Dynamics

The hosts delve into the evolving landscape of MLB, touching upon the increasing difficulty of hitting and the strategic shifts in player value:

• Jack McMullen: "The top end excellence amongst the greatest players in Major League Baseball right now is so spectacular because it is more difficult to hit a baseball than it's ever been." [12:46]

This insight highlights the modern challenges players face, such as advanced pitching techniques and analytics-driven strategies.

MLB Draft Focus: Prospects and Predictions

As the MLB draft approaches, the discussion shifts to promising collegiate players and their potential impact:

Kate Anderson: A Dominant Pitcher

• Jack McMullen: "Kate Anderson, a complete game shutout, 130 pitches, 10 strikeouts... one of the top draft picks available." [15:20]

Jack praises Anderson's performance, acknowledging his endurance and pitching prowess, while Taylor adds a humorous take on Anderson's pitch count:

• Taylor: "I really don't understand that 130. So nuts." [15:38]

Jamie Arnold: A Left-Handed Phenom

• Taylor: "Florida State's Jamie Arnold is a freak. And Arnold was the favorite to be the number one overall pick... I just comp the two top college lefties in America to Max Fried and Chris Sale." [16:43]

The hosts compare Arnold's skills to established MLB stars, forecasting a bright future for him in the major leagues.

Concluding the Segment: Wrapping Up the Trivia Battle

The episode culminates with the conclusion of the trivia game, where Chris Cody emerges victorious after correctly identifying the Colorado Rockies' pitching rotation in the final round:

• Chris Cody: "Rockies. I knew it. I thought I said, man." [17:30]

Jack McMullen commends Chris on his impressive win:

• Jack McMullen: "That was really impressive." [17:41]

Notable Quotes

• Jack McMullen on Cal Raleigh: "Cal Raleigh... anytime you pass Johnny Bench, I'm in on you being the most valuable player in a league. He is." [06:43]

• Taylor on Ronald Acuna Jr.: "Ronald Acuna Jr.... he was clearly hurt last year... he built up and now he's tracking in a way that we haven't seen a guy track in a really long time." [12:11]

• Jack McMullen on MLB Excellence: "The top end excellence amongst the greatest players in Major League Baseball right now is so spectacular because it is more difficult to hit a baseball than it's ever been." [12:46]

Conclusion

This episode of The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz masterfully combines engaging trivia with expert baseball analysis, providing listeners with both entertainment and insightful perspectives on current MLB dynamics and future prospects. Whether you're a die-hard baseball enthusiast or a casual fan, "The Pitch Clock" offers a compelling snapshot of the sport's present and future landscape.