The end of the World Series is the best time of year for baseball writing, when some of the greatest scribes working tell the story of the championship team’s triumph with a literary flourish worthy of the feat they are covering. These are the stories that made me want to become a baseball writer. They are full of rich characters and anecdotes, revealing details that shape our understanding of what we just watched and allow us to feel the thrill of the action all over again. These words live on in our memory just as vividly as the events they describe, and provide a portal for future generations of fans to know what it was like to experience it all as it unfolded. It’s a tribute to these writers that you can read as many of these stories as you want and still get something new out of each of them. I’ve read a handful of them as of Friday afternoon and will probably read twice as many more before I’ve had my fill, and I wanted to share them with you now before we get to this week’s mailbag.
First, of course, we have our own Michael Baumann’s 3,400-word opus on a championship that’s “worth coveting, and worth singing about,” as well as the toll that such an accomplishment takes. Next, we have stories from two of my former colleagues: Stephanie Apstein captured the emotional significance of this championship for both the Brewers and their fans in her story for the Washington Post, and in his Sports Illustrated cover story, Tom Verducci traced the trajectory of the team through the lens of the baseball from the final out, and in so doing, also penned a moving profile of manager Pat Murphy. Over at The Athletic, Andy McCullough laid out how “the Brewers have built a model franchise in a system the stewards of MLB believe tilts against them,” using the looming lockout to contextualize the club’s achievement. And finally, ESPN’s Jeff Passan chronicled how the Brewers’ metaphorical bus “brought together one endlessly loyal group of believers in the stands with another on the field.”
In this week’s mailbag, we’ll be answering your questions on Aaron Ashby’s dominant performance this postseason, how the Tropicana Field mound tastes — yes, tastes — compared to those in an open-air ballpark, and the mechanics of non-player trades. But first, I’d like to remind you that this mailbag is exclusive to FanGraphs Members. If you aren’t yet a Member and would like to keep reading, you can sign up for a Membership here. It’s the best way to both experience the site and support our staff, and it comes with a bunch of other great benefits. Also, if you’d like to ask a question for an upcoming mailbag, send me an email at mailbag@fangraphs.com. Read the rest of this entry »
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Ben Lindbergh and Meg Rowley banter about a few more World Series subjects (TV ratings, Kyle Harrison’s non-use, the Brewers’ bullpen performance, an earlier EW discussion of ideal clinching plays, and more), and then (26:00) recap the first season of ABS: how it went, what surprised them, possible improvements, etc. After that (46:26) they talk about baseball scenes in Avengers: Doomsday (with an MCU digression) and You Can See Everything (sans spoilers), and wrap up (1:15:45) by anticipating how active the MLB transaction market will be leading up to the lockout.
At the outset of the World Series, I noted that the Brewers had reached the Fall Classic for the first time in 44 years despite not getting much length from their starting pitchers. Through the National League Championship Series, Jacob Misiorowski, Logan Henderson, Robert Gasser and company averaged just under four innings per turn, an average that didn’t clear that low bar until The Miz delivered 5 2/3 shutout innings in Wednesday night’s World Series clincher. Along with the timely hitting of Jackson Chourio, William Contreras, and Cooper Pratt, a major key to Milwaukee’s dominant postseason run was its bullpen. Even in the team’s Game 4 defeat, Aaron Ashby set a postseason record by extending his streak of scoreless innings to 18, and as a group, Brewers relievers delivered one of the best combined showings in postseason history.
I dug into Ashby’s performance last week, noting the way his over-the-top delivery and high velocity combine to create unfamiliar angles and elite vertical movement for his repertoire, giving both lefties and righties fits. The 28-year-old lefty was even more dominant in his three World Series appearances:
Aaron Ashby’s 2026 Postseason Performance
Series
Opponent
G
IP
BFP
H
BB
SO
ERA
FIP
NLDS
Padres
3
5.2
19
2
2
5
0.00
2.40
NLCS
Dodgers
3
6.2
23
2
1
6
0.00
1.75
WS
Rays
3
5.2
18
1
0
9
0.00
-0.08
Total
9
18.0
60
5
3
20
0.00
1.38
That’s a 33.3% strikeout rate and a 5.0% walk rate overall, and a 50.0% strikeout rate (with no walks) against the Rays. Ashby threw 1 2/3 innings in Game 1, coming on in relief of Abner Uribe with one out in the seventh and setting down all five batters he faced. He added another 1 2/3 innings in Game 2, this time relieving Uribe with one out in the eighth. Though he had to work around a leadoff double by Jonny DeLuca to start the ninth (the only baserunner he allowed all series), he closed out the game, becoming the 10th pitcher with at least three saves of longer than three outs in a single Wild Card era postseason — or the 15th, depending upon how many times you want to count Mariano Rivera. Read the rest of this entry »
Affiliate Technology & Data Fellow (Spokane WA, Fresno CA)
About Us
The Colorado Rockies Baseball Club is embracing the climb, committed to building a championship-caliber organization on the field, in the clubhouse, and throughout our business operations. Playing at altitude presents unique competitive challenges and opportunities, and we embrace innovation, collaboration, and evidence-based practices to support elite performance. Rooted in the traditions of America’s pastime, we operate with integrity, service, quality, and trust while striving to create an exceptional experience for our players, staff, and fans.
Position Summary
The Affiliate Technology & Data Fellow supports Baseball Operations and the minor league coaching staff by coordinating day-to-day video and technology operations at an assigned affiliate. Approximately 75% of the role focuses on video capture, technology operations, and maintaining accurate, reliable video and data. The remaining responsibilities vary based on the fellow’s skills and may include analysis, scouting reports, research, model development, or on-field coaching support. This position requires reliability, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently while collaborating with coaches, players, and Baseball Operations staff.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Manage day-to-day video and technology operations for the assigned affiliate, supporting the coaching staff, players, and Player Development department.
Capture, tag, and upload video for the assigned affiliate using BATS software for all games throughout the season, and collect video and data from bullpens, batting practice, and defensive work.
Set up, test, and troubleshoot video and baseball technology equipment to support games, practices, and player development activities.
Review captured video and collected data for accuracy, completeness, and timely availability, addressing or escalating issues as needed.
Organize the use of other baseball technology (Trackman, Hawkeye, Edgertronic, Blast Motion, PitchBase, TruMedia, etc.) and share information as needed.
Contribute to analysis of video, tracking, and performance data to produce reports for coaches, players, and other non-technical audiences.
Collaborate with coaches and analysts to prepare advance scouting materials for each series.
Work with coaches and coordinators to create in-house instructional videos for demonstration, teaching, and development.
Additional Responsibilities
Depending on the fellow’s skills, career interests, and team needs:
Support analytical projects, baseball research, model development, or scouting reports in collaboration with Research & Development, Baseball Technology, and coaching staff.
Assist coaches with on-field drills, bullpens, and batting cage sessions.
Perform other duties as assigned by the front office.
Job Qualifications
Advanced knowledge of baseball rules, scoring, and statistics
Passion for the game of baseball.
Extremely motivated, with a strong work ethic and problem-solving skills, with the desire to learn and grow.
Detail-oriented, strong organizational skills, and multi-tasking abilities.
Ability to develop and maintain successful working relationships with members of the Club’s on-field staff and players.
Strong interpersonal skills, including oral and written communication.
Consistent, punctual, and regular attendance, while presenting a professional image and demeanor.
Ability to manage tight deadlines and multiple priorities while maintaining focus and accuracy.
Preferred Skills
Experience working in professional sports preferred.
Experience working with baseball video, technology, and data preferred.
Experience with data analysis, statistics, and data visualization (e.g., Python, R, SQL, Excel, Tableau) preferred.
Training & Development
Fellows receive training in the video and technology systems, equipment, and workflows required for their daily responsibilities.
Mentorship and project opportunities are tailored to the fellow’s skills and career interests, in alignment with team needs.
Work Schedule & Location
This is a fellowship position, with specific hours and days to be determined based on the needs of the minor league team and the baseball season.
The role requires flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
Location: Spokane WA or Fresno CA.
Travel with the assigned minor league team throughout the season is required.
Physical Job Requirements
Most of the work involves being outside, standing, and handling equipment. Approximately 70% of the time will be spent standing and performing tasks related to equipment handling.
About 30% of the work involves sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Frequent typing and use of a mouse or other input devices are necessary. Good hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills are essential.
The role requires the ability to review and interpret detailed data and visualizations, necessitating good visual acuity and the ability to work with screens for extended periods.
Regular communication via email, video calls, and in-person meetings. Clear verbal and written communication skills are essential.
Compensation & Benefits
Hourly Pay: $17.40 per hour (Fresno); $17.73 per hour (Spokane). The assignment is expected to continue through Sept. or mid-Oct 2027. Total earnings will depend on hours worked, including applicable overtime. This role may come with a housing stipend for non-local candidates.
Full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO, and more, subject to plan eligibility and applicable policies.
Application Process:
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis but must be received by November 16, 2026. Please note that this is just an estimate, and the posting may be removed or extended at any time.
The estimated time to complete the recruitment process will be by December 1, 2026.
A note for Colorado Rockies employees:
Please apply via the internal job board in UKG by following these prompts: MENU > MYSELF > MY COMPANY > VIEW OPPORTUNITIES > select the position > CONSENT > APPLY NOW
If you cannot access UKG, please list your most recent Manager as an Employee Reference on your application.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Rockies baseball is for everyone! We pride ourselves on hiring, developing, and promoting talent as an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, veteran status, or any other category protected by law. In addition, we will endeavor to provide reasonable accommodation to otherwise qualified job applicants and employees with known physical or mental disabilities in compliance with the ADA. All employment and promotion decisions will be decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business needs. The Colorado Rockies participate in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States
POSITION TITLE: Baseball Analytics Fellow LOCATION: Denver, CO (Coors Field) DEPARTMENT: Baseball Operations REPORTS TO: Director, Baseball Research STATUS: Full-Time, Exempt / Temporary assignment
ABOUT US
The Colorado Rockies Baseball Club is embracing the climb, committed to building a championship-caliber organization on the field, in the clubhouse, and throughout our business operations. Playing at altitude presents unique competitive challenges and opportunities, and we embrace innovation, collaboration, and evidence-based practices to support elite performance. Rooted in the traditions of America’s pastime, we operate with integrity, service, quality, and trust while striving to create an exceptional experience for our players, staff, and fans.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Baseball Analytics Fellow will support Baseball Operations and Research & Development by preparing, analyzing, and communicating data-driven insights that inform game strategy, player evaluation, scouting, player development, and advance preparation. This role is designed for an early-career analyst with strong technical skills, intellectual curiosity, and a desire to apply quantitative methods to meaningful baseball questions.
In this role, you will work with analysts, coaches, scouts, and Baseball Operations leadership to develop reports, visualizations, models, and research outputs that are clear, timely, and actionable. The ideal candidate is highly autonomous, communicates frequently, manages up effectively, and is comfortable supporting fluctuating baseball-season workflows.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Advance Preparation & Game Strategy
Assist in the preparation, quality review, and distribution of advance scouting reports for upcoming opponents.
Monitor daily lineups, roster moves, transactions, and other league information to support game planning and analysis.
Conduct ad hoc research to support end-game strategy development, including ABS-related questions and comparisons between players, teams, or game situations.
Coordinate and deliver advanced reports to Major League staff in a timely, usable format.
Research, Modeling & Data Preparation
Assist analysts with data preparation, validation, cleaning, and quality checks for modeling and reporting workflows.
Support predictive modeling projects by preparing datasets, engineering features, checking assumptions, and validating outputs.
Conduct research related to player development, scouting, player personnel, league trends, and other Baseball Operations priorities.
Support R&D staff with highly technical analysis, model development, and exploratory research based on departmental needs and the Fellow’s skills and interests.
Reporting, Visualization & Communication
Develop visualizations, dashboards, lightweight tools, and other mechanisms for disseminating analytical results across Baseball Operations.
Translate complex technical findings into clear, concise, and actionable insights for both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Provide written summaries, presentations, and recommendations that clearly describe methodology, assumptions, limitations, and practical implications.
Help maintain and QA internal datasets, reports, and recurring workflows to ensure accuracy and consistency across sources.
Operational Support
Provide operational support across Baseball Operations and R&D, including recurring reporting, special projects, and time-sensitive requests.
Take ownership of assigned tasks and small-to-medium projects, driving them forward with limited day-to-day supervision.
Collaborate with analysts, developers, scouts, coaches, and front office personnel to understand needs and deliver practical solutions.
Contribute to a positive, curious, and collaborative Baseball Operations environment.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required
Bachelor’s degree in a technical, quantitative, or otherwise relevant field, or equivalent demonstrated experience.
Proficiency with SQL and at least one statistical programming language, such as R or Python.
Experience preparing, cleaning, validating, and analyzing large or complex datasets.
Foundational understanding of statistics, modeling, data visualization, and research design.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain analytical work to technical and non-technical audiences.
Demonstrated ability to work autonomously, manage competing priorities, communicate frequently, and proactively surface questions or risks.
Passion for baseball and curiosity about using data to support player evaluation, player development, scouting, and in-game decision-making.
Preferred
Degree or coursework in statistics, mathematics, computer science, data science, engineering, economics, operations research, physics, or a related technical field.
Experience with AWS or another cloud environment.
Experience using Git or similar version control workflows.
Experience developing web applications, dashboards, or interactive tools, including R Shiny, Python-based web apps, or similar frameworks.
Experience with machine learning, predictive modeling, simulation, computer vision, or player-tracking data.
Prior experience using AI tools to support software development, application building, analysis, or workflow automation; experience with Claude or similar tools is a plus.
Familiarity with public baseball research, baseball datasets, player evaluation concepts, scouting processes, or advanced scouting workflows.
SCHEDULE & TRAVEL
This role follows the rhythm of the baseball season and requires flexibility based on game schedules, reporting cycles, and Baseball Operation’s needs.
Workload and schedule may fluctuate throughout the season based on game schedules, trade deadlines, draft preparation, player evaluation cycles, and other departmental priorities.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Sedentary work: regularly required to remain in a stationary position, use a computer, communicate via phone/video/email, and review information on screens for extended periods.
Occasionally required to move within an office or ballpark environment and attend meetings or events in person.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Salary: at the rate of $60,000 per year. The role is expected to earn approximately $50,000 for the duration of the January 1-October 31 assignment.
This role may come with a housing stipend for non-local candidates.
Full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO, and more, subject to plan eligibility and applicable policies.
APPLICATION PROCESS:
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis but must be received by November 16, 2026. Please note that this is just an estimate, and the posting may be removed or extended at any time.
The estimated time to complete the recruitment process will be by December 1, 2026.
A note for Colorado Rockies employees:
Please apply via the internal job board in UKG by following these prompts: MENU > MYSELF > MY COMPANY > VIEW OPPORTUNITIES > select the position > CONSENT > APPLY NOW
If you cannot access UKG, please list your most recent Manager as an Employee Reference on your application.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Rockies baseball is for everyone! We pride ourselves on hiring, developing, and promoting talent as an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, veteran status, or any other category protected by law. In addition, we will endeavor to provide reasonable accommodation to otherwise qualified job applicants and employees with known physical or mental disabilities in compliance with the ADA. All employment and promotion decisions will be decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business needs. The Colorado Rockies participate in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States
Happy Friday, party people. We're slated to get something like 2-to-3 inches of rain this weekend in Phoenix and it's pouring at the FanGraphs Desert Vista Compound right already. Looking forward to a weekend of Emo/Shoegaze writing like when I was in PA. For now, we chat.
I don't believe so. Still projects as a good everyday infielder, either SS or 3B, who's top 20 at his position. Good get for them. Folks can watch him most days playing in LIDOM for Gigantes. He and Roldy Brito are often in the starting lineup.
Brian Reinhart
Candy corn?
Eric Longenhagen
I'll eat it. It's not high on my pref list but I'm always curious enough to try it again. Especially the pumpkins.
Daniel
Given the Yankees aging core and the likelihood that Kilby isn’t a SS long term, do you see him being a guy they push pretty aggressively provided he continues to hit as he moves up?
Eric Longenhagen
I think so, it's reasonable to expect him to be promoted at roughly the same pace Lombard was if he keeps hitting. I think them sending him here after he barely played this year was fairly aggressive and he's thrived. Wouldn't chock me if he starts at Hudson Valley.
hankirons
As a Mets fan, what happened to Jacob Reimer this year? Between he and Clifford it feels like the corner bats we thought were close maybe aren't coming at all. Or is that too harsh?
Eric Longenhagen
Clifford was always going to be flawed in a way that left you disappointed, assuming you bought into peak expectations 2-ish years ago. His reasonable outcome was always more of a platoon bat. Reimer I was in on and remain on to a degree. He's better than his injury-altered 2026 statline, not just betting that he'll be better when healthy but looking at his underlying data, which is more favorable than his surface output…
Eric Longenhagen
The problem with Reimer is he's maxed out, tightly wound corner guy. If he's gonna K a quarter of the time and have roughly average power, does that really play in a meaningful way? I think it plays some, but not as a top 20 player at 1B if he ends up there alone.
nuxie
Position changes- rainel to third is that a real thing- Jesus made where does he play? Seems odd that he only played ss this year- seems like they’re committed to Pratt at short
Eric Longenhagen
I guess I'd wanna see Rainiel play third base before declaring yes or no. He's a heavier kid but built a lot like Max Muncy, who has been able to do it well enough to stay at 3B and moonlight at 2B for a while. I think a position change is what gets his bat in the lineup soonest because he otherwise still has so much work to do as a catcher.
Eric Longenhagen
Made I agree they should have (or at least should in LIDOM) see what happens with him at 3B. Pratt is the better defender. Joey Ortiz and David Hamilton should not be blocking a potential 30-homer 3B.
ajleff
Prediction for where Skubal lands?
Eric Longenhagen
I'll go off the board a bit and say Braves
Eric Longenhagen
They have a lot of money coming off the books in the next few years, Acuna and Sale and Profar, Albies, Suarez… it adds up. Kinda wonder if there's a Ketel/Acuna change of scenery trade in here somewhere? One more year of Albies makes that less a fit.
nuxie
Any names popping up from either instructs or the bridge league?
Eric Longenhagen
Instructs ended a couple weeks ago. Most of the good players are guys you already know. I thought Angeibel Gomez looked good, the Giants infielders, Grindlinger, Comeau… You should take a peek at my pieces from that window of time I wrote a ton as it was going on.
ajleff
Prediction for the largest change to MiLB/draft/amateur to come out of the lockout?
Eric Longenhagen
I think we will get an agreement before that stuff is ironed out. They'll say "here's the deal, let's play baseball." and then will hammer out draft/int'l stuff as an afterthought in the weeks following.
Domingo Ayala
Does John Peck have starting shortstop upside? He kind of came out of nowhere but he has some nice underlying numbers, including his player comps on Savant.
Eric Longenhagen
I like him but consider him more of a good utility type rather than a first division regular.
tdmoc
does Vance Honeycutt make the main list next year? OPS and EVs look pretty, but he's still K-ing ~30% with "empty" (non-competitive) walks
Eric Longenhagen
Back on there. The defense will allow him to play a role. Crushed for me yesterday, hit a ball 108 to dead CF. I agree the K's are too scary to project him as a consistent 2+ WAR guy but he'll play a role.
richwp01
" Bonemer entered the AFL season as the one of this group I was worried I’d come away feeling more skeptical about because of how much whiffing he did during the regular season. Instead, I think his power is weaponized by sufficient barrel feel. He is likely to be a left field-only defender in the big leagues, but he could have output similar to Teoscar Hernández." His arm not strong enough for RF? Is he just in center to have easier reads?
Eric Longenhagen
Not a natural thrower from the OF whatsoever.
thundacat707
Does Seaver King start next season in the MLB? What are your thoughts on his ceiling?
Eric Longenhagen
I think Washington will look to maximize years of control there. I was super high on King coming out of college, became pretty skeptical at the end of 2025 because he had zero ability to pull the ball (I'm not a "pull everything!" guy but I do think it's scary when you can't do it at all) and was really shaky on defense. He had an awesome season, and needs a re-eval from scratch this list cycle. Washington's new regime absolutely made their hitters better right away and I'm willing to bet he's a true arrow up guy rather than a product of this year's wacky minor league offensive environment.
Eric Longenhagen
Wildly close lightning strikes here, like cartoon sound effect lightning.
You should consider it a lateral move I guess, id have to know way more about your league and roster to give you a cogent answer.
Pirates Hurdles
I'm curious how to best deal with a bad year of production for younger prospect bats – guys like Jansel Luis or Gabriel Rodriguez? How do you weight production on toolsy guys in full season ball?
Eric Longenhagen
It's tough. You look for reasons to give them the benefit of the doubt. Were they young for the level, were they injured, does the surface production deviate from the underlying data in any way?
abravesfan25
ATL farmhands Owen Carey and/or Isaiah Drake make any notable impressions during in-person looks in the AFL?
Eric Longenhagen
Drake can really really run, he has a RB's physicality. Can he hit enough to be anything more than a specialist? He has an interesting data profile (huge launch, roughly average contact) but visually his feel to his is crude. Carey is on time to pull, probably LF only defender (30 arm), like him as an eventual corner platoon bat, though it'll depend on how strong he gets. They're both prospects, but not likely impact guys.
doughboy
i know this is likely the million dollar question, but is Bryce Rainer swing something that can be fixable in offseason to return to hos rookie season contact rates?
Eric Longenhagen
I don't think it's something you actively tinker with yet, I think he might shorten up naturally as he deals with failure and is forced to adjust.
metties
How do you balance (your time, focus, etc.) making sure you nail your evals on top 100 dudes with having 1200+ reports on prospects?
Eric Longenhagen
It's the toughest thing, honestly. Like yesterday I went to Peoria with Laurila. We went earlier than I would have on my own because Laurila interviews players, and that happens well before the game. Then it's nearly impossible to focused on writing in the press box because people in there wanna socialize (which I get), then Patrick Reilly was useful to see for four innings in perfect weather, then nobody else threw strikes and we had like 24 combined walks. I'd have rather been doing anything but watching three pitchers be required to finish an inning. But once your'e in the bowl with the scouts it's kind of a faux pas to leave early, they don't know you're going back to the box to do more work. Anyway, yes this part of it has been the toughest thing for me to wrangle in ten years of doing this. Marrying the depth I'm capable of and the depth that is a differentiator for us as a site (along with the writing quality imo) with the broad, Taylor Swift type tastes of the reading and listening audience that wants everything done right now and could care less about the 40s and 35+ guys.
rfilla
For a dollar: Which outfielder in the Cardinals system will have the highest peak season WAR? Walker, Baez, Peete, Frias, Condon?
Eric Longenhagen
I think Frias.
apeloton
Chase Harlan is down as a guy you want to see more of this fall – do you have any specifics you want to assess with him or more just a general get eyes on?
Eric Longenhagen
I just want more looks at him playing defense to feel better about where we project him. The league average wRC+ at 3B this year was 98. At 1B it was 111. Where he plays defense really matters to how he stacks among his peers.
abravesfan25
Congrats to the Brewers! Do you think they'll realize more out of their side of the Peralta trade (Sproat, Jett Williams) in 2027, or is that shaping up as a lose-lose trade?
Eric Longenhagen
I still think Sproat will be good. Jett will be a role-player.
triplesandtea
Any chance we get another visual scouting explanation series? Or perhaps a few ABs/plays from one player where you break down scouting them from the basics (what do you see mechanically) to the more advanced?
Eric Longenhagen
Yeah I want to do a video podcast series that takes you through the list-making processes.
InsertWittyNameHere
Any flawed prospect that should consider switching to football to replace Tanner McKee? Or play O-line? Or call plays?
Eric Longenhagen
How has Elijah Green not started playing football at Georgia yet?
ADoctolero
What's the next "thing" you see teams like the Dodgers, Brewers and Rays doing from either a development or player acquisition standpoint, that will cause the rest of the league to play copy cat?
Eric Longenhagen
Brewers tailoring bat design to the player's swing.
ahughes584
Is Axel Plaz's bat good enough for him to be a regular? Is Rafael Flores' bat good enough that he plays daily for the Pirates?
Eric Longenhagen
Plaz is Botero Jorge Alfaro. Flores will play a big role, yeah. How many catchers really play every day anymore? It's only the top couple guys. They almost always share time and I think Flores will, too, but thrive as a hitter in that role catching 80 games rather than 120.
abravesfan25
How has Brooks Auger looked in the AFL? Still a viable path to being a starter?
Eric Longenhagen
Built like a starter, moves like a starter, commands it like a reliever. Think in that org he's a swingman.
Cromulent
The question about Reimer and Clifford makes me wonder: aren’t Baty and Vientos still ahead of those guys in the (young and at least somewhat unproven) Mets corner infield queue? Or is the cement dry there?
Eric Longenhagen
Definitely stacked ahead of Reimer/Clifford. Ronny Mo, too. It's a deep group, they 've given themselves lots of bites at the apple. Some of these guys regress, some progress, and when you have enough of them around you can capture the peak years of the best couple guys and do okay.
rfilla
How do you evaluate a young, high upside, projectable prospect who misses 1-2 years due to injury? Yairo Padilla, for example. Should we assume his development "paused" or is it more likely that he's been progressing off the field?
Eric Longenhagen
It's tough, but Ethan Salas is proof of concept that these guys shouldn't simply be dismissed because of lost time.
Domingo Ayala
Can Chandler Simpson improve his arm? Very unnatural throwing motion
Eric Longenhagen
Nah, feels like he's just in 20/30 area and you live with it.
Gerry McDonald
Jake Cook didn't have much hitting experience before the draft. Is he developing as you would expect? How did he look in Arizona?
Eric Longenhagen
I love this guy. Has run sub-3.9 for me multiple times, which is like Billy Hamilton fast. Except this guy has more size than Hamilton and is relatively green as a hitter. Think he has a chance to be pretty good. At the very least he's going to be super fun to watch develop, or try to.
zapper
Has Zion Rose passed Burress with his AFL performance?
Eric Longenhagen
Burress looked good during instructs and I wish they had AFL'd him rather than Guedez. I think I'd still take Burress, just a more explosive athlete in the box.
Brendan Smith
How do you see the looming lockout affecting the pro hiring cycle and any player development efforts around spring training/opening month of MiLB season?
Eric Longenhagen
I think some of the more budget-conscious teams will have fewer additions to ops this offseason. Same as COVID and the last lockout.
gettwobrute79
What’s more likely for Derek Curiel? He’s able to stick in center or develop enough power to be a regular? As a Bucs fan, I’d love both, but both feels like a tall ask.
Eric Longenhagen
Let's see what his body looks like in February. These guys can get in the weight room in their early 20s and get pretty strong pretty fast.
Hazmat Corntail
Who are you most interested in seeing how they develop further – if you think they can – now that they’ve reached the majors?: Spencer Jones, Victor Mesa, Cole Carrigg
Eric Longenhagen
Carrigg is the toolsiest of that group.
Brendan Smith
Not a question-video podcast series for the lists would be must watch!
Eric Longenhagen
I've had this idea for a long time but clearing music and video rights could be a nightmare. I obviously shoot a ton of my own video but sometimes broadcast footage is just better for showing what it is I want to show… we'll see.
bubbles
Where would Miguel Hernandez have gone in the 26 draft of he were eligible? When looking at his metrics, he seems impressive and I prefer him over the Cards actual draftee Condon.
Eric Longenhagen
Good question, Bubs. I think he'd be a 700k type in the draft. Sub-70% contact rate guy is scary for Low-A, good plate discipline and power for his age. There's something there but not a first round something
Jeremy Fox
Can you try to develop a pitcher for an Aaron Ashby-type role?
Eric Longenhagen
I think you develop them as starters and then it becomes clear their best role is this Ashby type thing. Grant Taylor, etc.
Can you give us an idea of how to think about AFL as a level of competition? Both in terms of "who they're up against" and also "who should be sent and who isn't ready"?
Eric Longenhagen
High-A pitchers in a Cal League hitting environment. The bullpens here are always bad. I don't know how to solve for this because the pitchers sent here are almost always sent here because they were hurt during the regular season.
Eric Longenhagen
Okay friends, great chat today. I am speaking at First Pitch Arizona next week during our scheduled chat time, so I will need to either change day/time next week. Be sure to check the chat schedule on the site for updates, I'll try to come up with a solution that is creative and fun (like maybe chatting live during Fall Stars?)
Location: Papago, AZ Position: Director, Integrated Performance Reports to: Sr. Director of Player Development Department: Player Development Status: Full-Time; Exempt
Position Overview:
The San Francisco Giants are seeking a Director, Integrated Performance to join the Baseball Operations department.
The Director, Integrated Performance provides strategic leadership and oversight of Strength and Conditioning, Nutrition, Biomechanics, Mental Skills, and Sports Science within Player Development. This position is responsible for aligning these disciplines to support individualized player development, optimize athletic performance, enhance readiness and promote long-term player growth. The Director establishes department standards, provides leadership and professional development to performance staff, and collaborates with coaches, medical personnel, and player development leadership to ensure performance strategies are effectively integrated into daily baseball operations.
Position Responsibilities:
Department Leadership and Accountability
Provides leadership and oversight of the five performance disciplines, ensuring consistent standards, clearly defined responsibilities, and accountability across affiliates and complexes.
Oversee staff development, performance evaluation, and professional growth while supporting collaborative and accountable team environment.
Partner with Player Development leadership and front office on staffing recommendations resources allocation, budgets, and departmental planning.
Integrated Player Development
Collaborate with baseball coordinators, coaches, and performance staff to develop and implement individualized player development plans based on assessments, player goals and baseball specific demands.
Lead player evaluations and meetings to ensure alignment of recommendations, establish clear responsibilities and monitor progress towards development goals.
Oversee programs focused on strength, power, speed, movement quality, fueling habits, recovery practices, and mental performance skills based on individual player’s needs and development stages.
Coordinate training programs with baseball schedules and workloads to balance player development, preparation, and competitive readiness.
Ensure consistent implementation of performance programs throughout the regular season, postseason, offseason and transitions.
Assessment and Decision Support
Establish and oversee assessment and monitoring processes to evaluate player development, identify opportunities for improvement, and guide adjustments to individualized plans.
Collaborate with analysts, R&D, and baseball operations personnel to translate sports science and biomechanical data into recommendations for coaches and players.
Evaluate performance technologies, assessment tools, and training methodologies to support effective decision making and continuous program improvement. data quality, tool usefulness, and program effectiveness.
Collaboration and Communication
Serve as the primary liaison between the performance disciplines and Player Development leadership, providing regular updates on player progress, staffing priorities, and operational needs.
Partner with Medical staff regarding player workload, rehabilitation, and return-to-performance planning while maintaining appropriate medical oversight and decision-making authority.
Support continuity of performance programming and player information across affiliates, complexes and transitions to the Major League level.
Knowledge and Skills:
Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, Sports Science or related field. Advanced degree or recognized performance credentials preferred.
Demonstrated leadership experience in professional sport or high-performance athletic environment including experience overseeing multidisciplinary teams and implementing athlete development programs. Baseball experience preferred.
Comprehensive understanding of Strength and Conditioning, Nutrition, Biomechanics, Mental Skills, and Sports Science.
Strong organizational and analytical skills and communication skills.
Ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality when handling player information and organizational information.
Willingness to travel to affiliates and complexes, and other organizational locations as needed.
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by the baseball schedule.
Spanish language proficiency preferred but not required.
At the Giants, we believe we put our best work forward when our employees bring together ideas that are diverse in thought. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, medical condition or disability, genetic condition, marital status, domestic partnership status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status and any other protected class under federal, state or local law. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. In addition, we will provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities. If you have a disability or special needs, we would like to know how we can better accommodate you.
Cooper Pratt doesn’t drink alcohol, but he should never have to buy a Fanta in Wisconsin again for as long as he lives.
The 22-year-old shortstop had a World Series for the ages, stroking eight hits in his 19 at-bats (.421 batting average) and driving in a series-high seven runs, including one that would have clinched the trophy if not for a blown save. It was a remarkable, probably MVP-worthy performance that any player in the grand history of the game would kill to have on his résumé. The fact that Pratt is a rookie who was playing high school ball in Mississippi three years ago makes it feel borderline fictional.
So just how good was Pratt in the Brewers’ five-game triumph over the Rays? His 0.62 Win Probability Added was not only the highest of all position players who saw the field in this year’s Fall Classic, it was the third-highest ever for a position player 22 or younger in the World Series. He was a rounding error away from equaling Tim McCarver — who logged a 0.63 WPA while batting .478 and catching, not a typo, 27 innings from Bob Gibson — in the 1964 World Series as the Cardinals beat the Yankees in seven. The top spot on that leaderboard, however, belongs to Charlie Keller, a Yankee outfielder who ran up a 1.02 WPA and hit three home runs in New York’s 1939 sweep of the Reds, each with the score tied or within one run. For pitchers, 1921 Waite Hoyt was the best in that age range with 1.55 WPA, while 2001 Byung-Hyun Kim and his -1.11 was the worst. (Matt Martell just wrote about Hoyt’s 1921 World Series in last week’s mailbag column, when answering a question on the best World Series performances from players on the losing team, so you should check out that for more.) Read the rest of this entry »
Ben Lindbergh and Meg Rowley banter about the end of the World Series and 2026 season: the big moments of Games 4 and 5, the Brewers’ victory and overall October run, and what, if anything, other teams will take away from Milwaukee’s success. They also discuss the ideal last out of a World Series, how this postseason’s level of excitement stacks up historically, what to expect from offseason EW, and more.
Free agency begins five days after the end of the World Series. As in other recent seasons, FanGraphs is once again facilitating a contract crowdsourcing project, with the idea being to harness the wisdom of the crowd to better understand and project the 2026-27 free agent market.
In recent years, we’ve added a few features to these ballots based on reader feedback. You now have the option to indicate that a player will only receive a minor league contract, or won’t receive a contract at all. If there is a player option, team option, or opt out in a player’s contract, you’ll be able to indicate whether you think he will remain with his current team or become a free agent. Statistics are prorated to full season values where noted. Unless otherwise indicated, the projected WAR figures are from the first cut of the 2027 Steamer600 projections.
Below are ballots for 12 of this year’s free agents — in this case, one last group of relievers. Read the rest of this entry »
There’s plenty to be said about the individual performances of this year’s champions. William Contreras won World Series MVP honors by hitting .381/.435/.429, throwing out four would-be basestealers, and winning 10 out of 13 ABS challenges. Jackson Chourio gave Contreras a run for the money in the MVP race, tying a 98-year-old record held by Babe Ruth by collecting 10 hits over the first four games of the World Series, and leading all players with 11 hits and a .458 batting average. Cooper Pratt collected six straight hits in Games 4 and 5, batting .421/.455/.684 while leading all players in slugging percentage and RBI (seven). Aaron Ashby set a postseason reliever record with 18 consecutive scoreless innings, and allowed just one baserunner in 5.1 World Series innings while striking out nine. Likely National League Cy Young winner Jacob Misiorowski, seemingly low on gas during the first two rounds of the postseason, bookended the World Series with a pair of strong starts totaling 10.2 innings while allowing just one run. Speaking of bookends, Chourio, Contreras, and reliever Antonio Senzatela were all members of Team Venezuela’s World Baseball Classic-winning squad, joining Alex Bregman and Luke Gregerson of the 2017 Astros and Team USA as the only players to win both championships in the same calendar year. Read the rest of this entry »
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