Podcast Summary: The Dan Patrick Show - "Our 2025 First Base Tier List (with Jolly Olive)"

Host/Author:
iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network

Release Date:
February 19, 2025

Overview

In this episode of The Dan Patrick Show, hosts dive deep into the realm of Major League Baseball, specifically focusing on creating a comprehensive tier list for first basemen heading into the 2025 season. Joined by special guest Jolly Olive, the conversation navigates through the strengths and weaknesses of current and emerging first basemen, considering both offensive prowess and defensive capabilities. The discussion is enriched with statistical analyses, personal insights, and spirited debates, offering listeners an engaging exploration of the first base position in baseball.

1. Introduction to the Tier List

The episode kicks off with Martin Luther King III introducing the concept of the tier list for first basemen, emphasizing the complexities and challenges associated with ranking players at this position.

• Martin Luther King III (02:02):
  "This is gonna be one of the ugliest tier lists we do."

• Mark Seal (02:52):
  "It's the only position I didn't get to play in Little League."

The hosts express their initial struggles in categorizing players, highlighting the diversity in skill sets and performance levels among first basemen.

2. S Tier First Basemen

Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

At the pinnacle of the tier list sits Vladimir Guerrero Jr., celebrated for his exceptional offensive numbers and improved defensive skills.

• Mark Seal (05:35):
  "He's going to be the ball or the bell of the ball at next year's free agency class."

• Martin Luther King III (05:51):
  "Vladito... 6.2 WAR, 940 OPS. 166 OPS+."

Guerrero Jr.'s consistency and potential for further growth make him a clear standout, securing his position in the S tier.

Matt Olson and Freddy Freeman

Following closely are Matt Olson and Freddy Freeman, both renowned for their offensive contributions and solid defensive play.

• Mark Seal (07:00):
  "Matt Olson definitely belongs up there."

• Martin Luther King III (08:53):
  "Freddie Freeman is like a first ballot hall of Famer."

Their sustained performances and influence on their teams underscore their placement among the elite first basemen.

3. Middle Tiers: Paul Goldschmidt and Carlos Santana

Paul Goldschmidt and Carlos Santana are discussed as reliable performers who offer consistent offensive output and commendable defense, though they may lack the standout qualities of the S tier.

• Mark Seal (10:09):
  "Your dad's old glove."

• Martin Luther King III (12:03):
  "Paul Goldschmidt... 7.4 WAR."

Their roles as dependable starters make them valuable assets, though not quite at the superstar level of the S tier.

4. Challenges in Ranking: Name Value Bias

The hosts delve into the inherent challenges of creating a tier list, particularly the influence of name value—players' reputations and marketability—on their rankings.

• Mark Seal (23:10):
  "He's a one-tool player. True."

• Martin Luther King III (33:11):
  "It's a name value thing, it exists."

This section highlights the difficulty in separating a player's performance from their off-field persona, affecting objective evaluations.

5. The Bottom Tier: Emerging and Transitional Players

Jake Berger, Wilson Contreras, and Others

The lower tiers feature players like Jake Berger and Wilson Contreras, whose performances have been inconsistent or who are still adapting to the first base position.

• Mark Seal (40:39):
  "He's the only one with a full season lefty, right?"

• Martin Luther King III (43:22):
  "Reese Hoskins and Jake Berger currently deserve each other."

Their placement reflects their current performance levels and potential for growth, indicating areas for improvement.

6. The "One More Summer" Tier: High Potential with Uncertainty

A unique discussion emerges around a tier dubbed "One More Summer," representing young players with significant upside but who have yet to fully prove themselves.

• Mark Seal (63:47):
  "Give me 162. Because that was kind of the uniting thing with all of them."

• Martin Luther King III (64:44):
  "One more summer for old times sake."

This category encapsulates players who could break into higher tiers with continued development and consistent performance.

7. Conclusions and Future Predictions

The episode concludes with reflections on the depth of the first base position, acknowledging both the abundance of talent and the subjective nature of tier rankings.

• Martin Luther King III (67:15):
  "Let us know where you think we went absolutely wrong. Let us know where we went right."

• Mark Seal (67:17):
  "I think this is a good list."

The hosts invite listeners to share their opinions, fostering an ongoing conversation about player evaluations and tier list adjustments for future seasons.

Notable Quotes

• Mark Seal (05:35):
  "Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is going to be the ball or the bell of the ball at next year's free agency class."

• Martin Luther King III (08:53):
  "Freddie Freeman is like a first ballot hall of Famer."

• Mark Seal (40:39):
  "He's the only one with a full season lefty, right?"

Final Thoughts

The Dan Patrick Show delivers an in-depth and spirited analysis of first basemen in MLB, balancing statistical insights with personal perspectives. The tier list serves as a foundation for ongoing debates among fans and analysts alike, highlighting the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of baseball performance evaluations.

Listen to the Episode

For those who haven't tuned in, catch The Dan Patrick Show on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Engage with the community, share your thoughts, and stay updated with exclusive insider access and expert analyses.