TableSetters: A Baseball Podcast

Guest: Chase Solesky (Washington Nationals Prospect), AFL Success, Harrisburg Reflections, Pitching Labs, & 2025 Goals | 41

Welcome to Episode 41 of TableSetters, your ultimate destination for all things baseball! Hosts Devin and Steve are back with an exciting episode featuring a can’t-miss guest: Chase Solesky, a rising star on the mound and one of the top prospects in the Washington Nationals system.
Chase joins us fresh off a dominant showing in the Arizona Fall League, where he fanned 20 batters while issuing just one walk in six appearances, all while helping his team secure the AFL Championship. We break down his incredible performance, how he thrived against elite competition, and what it meant to earn a spot on the AFL All-Star team.
Looking back on Chase’s standout 2024 season with the AA Harrisburg Senators, we explore his 3.02 ERA over 17 games, the impact of working under manager Delino DeShields, and his seamless transition into the Nationals’ system after leaving the White Sox. Chase also opens up about his time in the Atlantic League and how it fueled his impressive comeback.
We dive deeper into Chase’s remarkable journey, from the highs of AAA Charlotte to the challenges of independent ball and his relentless drive to keep pushing after being released in 2023. Chase shares eye-opening insights into the Nationals’ pitching philosophy, his experiences with cutting-edge pitching labs, and his thoughts on the surge of elbow injuries plaguing pitchers today.
Before wrapping up, we hear about Chase’s goals for the 2025 season, including sharpening his pitches and preparing for the next big step in his career. And just for fun, we squeeze in a quick question about his alma mater, Tulane, and their potential shot at the college football playoffs.
This episode is packed with inspiration, in-depth analysis, and a behind-the-scenes look at one of baseball’s brightest young talents. Tune in now—you won’t want to miss it!
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Blind Rankings: Ballparks/Free Agents & Tag Teamin’ Stars, 2025 Hall of Fame Ballot, Skenes & Gil Win ROY, Burnes & Soto Rumors | 40

Welcome to Episode 40 of TableSetters!  
This week, Devin and Steve bring their baseball smarts to the forefront with a thrilling game of Blind Rankings. From ranking free agents with randomly assigned ballparks to creating dynamic MLB “tag teams,” this segment is a wild ride packed with unpredictability, quick thinking, and plenty of laughs. Think you’ve got better rankings in mind? Tune in and see if you can outsmart our hosts!  
Before diving into the ranking madness, we kick things off with our self-imposed 10-minute pitch clock to cover the hottest topics around the league. Leading the charge is the newly announced 2025 Hall of Fame ballot, with first-time candidates Ichiro Suzuki, CC Sabathia, and Dustin Pedroia stealing the spotlight. And as Billy Wagner enters his final year on the ballot, we ask the big question: Is this the year he punches his ticket to Cooperstown?  
We also celebrate the 2024 Rookie of the Year winners, Paul Skenes and Luis Gil, and discuss their incredible seasons. Skenes’ historic debut with the Pirates and Gil’s emergence in the Yankees’ rotation have set the stage for bright futures in the big leagues.  
On the free agency front, the buzz around Corbin Burnes and Juan Soto is heating up. The Orioles and Dodgers are reportedly leading the race for Burnes, but could another team make a surprise move? Meanwhile, Soto’s potential suitors now include the Yankees, Blue Jays, Phillies, Dodgers, and even the Mets, who are said to be planning an aggressive pursuit. Will his destination be decided by fit, money, or an unexpected twist?  
To wrap up the news, we break down trade rumors, like the Royals and Reds discussing a Brady Singer-for-Jonathan India swap, and surprising moves, such as the Mets acquiring Jose Siri and the Cubs designating Adbert Alzolay for assignment. We also weigh in on Minute Maid Park’s rebranding to Daikin Field and the growing uncertainty around the Rays’ stadium deal.  
Whether you’re here for Hall of Fame debates, rookie reflections, or free agency drama, this episode has something for every baseball fan. Don’t miss out—grab your headphones and join the conversation!  
Follow us for exclusive content and updates:
📸 Instagram: @TableSettersPod
🐦 Twitter: @TableSettersPod
Support the show: Like, subscribe, and share to help us grow!  

Guest: Brady Farkas (Fastball on Sports Illustrated/FanNation, Refuse to Lose- a Seattle Mariners Podcast), Mariners 2025 Outlook, Cal Raleigh’s Future, Pitching Trades, & Offseason Moves | 39

Welcome back to TableSetters, your ultimate destination for all things baseball! Steve and Devin are here, and we’ve got a fantastic guest joining us for today’s episode. We’re thrilled to welcome Brady Farkas, a baseball writer for Fastball on Sports Illustrated/FanNation, the host of The Brady Farkas Show, and the voice behind the Refuse to Lose Mariners Podcast. With nearly a decade of experience in sports talk radio and a deep understanding of the game, Brady is here to give us the inside scoop on the Seattle Mariners heading into the 2025 season. In this episode, we dive into a range of topics about the Mariners and their future. We start by hearing about Brady’s background—what led him to podcasting and writing about the Mariners, and how his experience in sports talk radio has shaped his coverage of the team. We also reflect on the Mariners’ 2024 season, including their impressive lead over the Astros and what ultimately went wrong during that stretch. The Mariners made a major managerial change in August, parting ways with Scott Servais and bringing in Dan Wilson. Brady shares his thoughts on whether it was the right time for a change and what Wilson brings to the table. We also talk about one of the team’s shining stars, Cal Raleigh, and whether there’s a chance the Mariners extend him before his arbitration years come to an end. From there, we dive into the Mariners’ pitching staff, which has long been the strength of the team. Brady gives his take on whether the Mariners should consider trading a pitcher for offensive help, and which pitcher in the rotation has the highest ceiling. We also discuss Jerry DiPoto’s tenure as GM, and whether the team’s direction is sustainable heading into 2025. Looking ahead to the offseason, Brady shares his ideal moves for the Mariners and some realistic predictions for what they’ll actually do. We also talk about some of the under-the-radar prospects who could make a surprise impact in the near future, and what’s next for Julio Rodríguez as he looks to bounce back. Finally, we take a look at the AL West and the Mariners’ chances of winning the division in 2025, as well as the ongoing discussions around Juan Soto and Roki Sasaki. Brady wraps up by sharing his hopes and expectations for the Mariners in the coming seasons. This is one episode you won’t want to miss, so grab your headphones and get ready for an insightful conversation with Brady Farkas. It’s all here, on TableSetters—where every inning tells a story, and every pitch sets the stage for baseball’s greatest moments! And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Twitter @TableSettersPod for exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes content, and interactive fan polls. We want to hear from you!

Roki Sasaki to Be Posted, Boone Returns, Soto’s Next Move, & Trade Rumors Heating Up | 38

Welcome back to TableSetters, your go-to spot for all things baseball. Steve and Devin are here to break down the latest happenings in the MLB world, and there’s a lot to talk about! First up, Aaron Boone’s sticking around for the 2025 season after the Yankees picked up his option. Boone’s been at the helm for seven seasons now, leading the team to the postseason six times. GM Brian Cashman’s all in on him, and Boone’s ready to get back to work. We’ll hear from him in a press conference on Monday to get his take on the upcoming year. Switching gears to the offseason, the Yankees are about to sit down with Juan Soto and his agent, Scott Boras, for an in-person meeting. The Yankees and Mets are both hot on Soto’s trail, but there are many other teams in the mix too. Soto’s one of the biggest free-agent names out there, and his decision will make waves. Nolan Arenado is also popping up in trade rumors. The Cardinals might move the 10-time Gold Glover if he agrees to waive his no-trade clause, and the Yankees could be a landing spot. Sure, Arenado didn’t have his best offensive season in 2024, but he’s still an elite defender, and the Yankees could use that. Out in Boston, the Red Sox are looking at some big pitching moves. Instead of going after the top free agents, they’re eyeing a trade for a big-name starter, like Garrett Crochet from the White Sox. With a strong farm system, they’ve got the pieces to make it happen. Meanwhile, the Reds are in a tough spot financially. With Bally Sports’ bankruptcy looming, they’re losing a chunk of revenue and might be forced to cut back on player spending for 2025. It could make for a tricky offseason in Cincinnati. And in Philly, there’s a big shakeup in the front office. Preston Mattingly, the son of former MLB star Don Mattingly, has been promoted to GM. He’ll be working alongside Sam Fuld, who’ll eventually transition to president of business operations in 2026 after finishing his MBA. That’s all for now! Be sure to follow us on Instagram and Twitter @tablesetterspod for all the latest. Catch you next time on TableSetters!

Guest: Keith Raad (New York Mets on WCBS 880), 2024 Highlights, Carlos Mendoza’s Leadership, Offseason Priorities, & Young Talent to Watch | 37

Welcome back to TableSetters, your ultimate destination for all things baseball! Steve and Devin are here, and we’ve got a fantastic guest joining us for today’s episode. We’re thrilled to welcome Keith Raad, the play-by-play broadcaster for the New York Mets on WCBS 880. Keith works alongside Mets Hall of Famer Howie Rose, bringing all the action and insights to Mets fans throughout the season. You can follow Keith on X @keith_raad and catch him live on the Mets' broadcast!
In this episode, we dive into a range of topics about the Mets and the 2024 season. We start by hearing about Keith's journey in baseball broadcasting—how he got started and what steps led him to his current role with the Mets. We also talk about his experience working alongside the legendary Howie Rose and the lessons he’s learned about calling a game and connecting with an audience.
The 2024 Mets have been one of the most talked-about teams this season, and rightfully so! From unforgettable moments to a unique clubhouse vibe, Keith shares his favorite highlight of the year and what made this Mets team stand out. We also discuss Carlos Mendoza, one of the rising stars in the managerial ranks, and what makes him such an effective leader.
Looking ahead, the Mets have a busy offseason. We get Keith’s take on whether Juan Soto should be their top target, or if other areas should take precedence in their plans. With several expiring contracts and potential roster changes, Keith breaks down which players might return in 2025 and how the team’s financial flexibility could play a role in bringing in new talent. We also dive into the Mets' promising young talent—players like Brett Baty, Ronnie Mauricio, and Francisco Álvarez—and what we can expect from them next season.
We discuss the possibility of Mark Vientos being locked up long-term, how the Mets could use their farm system for potential trades, and the future of Francisco Álvarez—especially as it relates to his offensive consistency and what adjustments might be in store.
To close, Keith reflects on the most rewarding part of his role with the Mets and what he hopes to bring to the passionate Mets fanbase in the years to come.
This is one episode you won’t want to miss, so grab your headphones and get ready for an insightful conversation with Keith Raad. It’s all here, on TableSetters—where every inning tells a story, and every pitch sets the stage for baseball’s greatest moments!
And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Twitter @TableSettersPod for exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes content, and interactive fan polls. We want to hear from you!

Yankees' Collapse & Dodgers' Triumph: Analyzing the World Series Finale & Offseason Outlook | 36

Welcome back to TableSetters, your go-to podcast for all things baseball! Steve and Devin are here to recap the World Series, where the Dodgers pulled off an incredible comeback against the Yankees.
In Game 5, the Yankees started strong with a 5-0 lead and a 94 percent win probability. However, a series of critical mistakes allowed the Dodgers to tie the game. The Yankees’ struggles with fundamentals, which haunted them all postseason, ultimately cost them.
The Dodgers clinched the title with a stunning 7-6 victory, marking the first time a team has rallied from a 5-0 deficit in a World Series clincher. Freddie Freeman, named MVP, delivered clutch performances throughout the series, including key hits that propelled the Dodgers to victory. This championship is a significant milestone for the Dodgers, giving them their second title in five years and their eighth overall. After a challenging postseason where they nearly faced elimination against the Padres, they bounced back impressively, showcasing their resilience and depth.
Now, let’s talk about Juan Soto. After the tough loss, he lingered in the dugout, reflecting on his future with the Yankees. He expressed pride in what the team accomplished but confirmed he plans to test free agency. Soto’s exceptional season makes him one of the most sought-after players this offseason, and teams will be lining up to make a play for him. His decision will undoubtedly shake up the landscape of the league.
As the Yankees pivot to the offseason, they also face key decisions, including Gerrit Cole’s opt-out and Anthony Rizzo’s contract.
In other news, the Chicago White Sox have hired Will Venable as their new manager, signaling a fresh start for the team.
With the offseason ahead, there’s a lot to look forward to! Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Twitter @tablesetterspod for updates and behind-the-scenes content.
So grab your popcorn and settle in as we spark the conversation right here on TableSetters. Let’s play ball!

Dodgers vs. Yankees: 2024 World Series Preview: Analyzing Key Matchups & Team Strengths | 35

Welcome back to TableSetters, your go-to podcast for all things baseball! Steve and Devin are here, diving deep into the thrilling World Series matchup between the Yankees and Dodgers, but first, we want to take a moment to honor the late Fernando Valenzuela. Just days before the World Series, the legendary pitcher passed away at the age of 63. His impact on baseball, especially during his iconic run with the Dodgers in 1981, is immeasurable. Valenzuela not only won the Cy Young Award and Rookie of the Year in that season but also became a cultural icon, particularly for the Latino community. 
As we reflect on this somber news, we’ll remember Valenzuela’s distinctive delivery and his remarkable contributions to the game. His passing serves as a poignant reminder of the rich history and legacy that intertwines with the World Series, especially as the Dodgers prepare to face the Yankees again—an event that he was a significant part of in the past.
Now, shifting gears back to the World Series, we’ll dive into the excitement surrounding this historic matchup. The Yankees and Dodgers are clashing in the Fall Classic for the first time in 43 years, and we’ll break down what makes this series so significant.
We’ll start with the **pitching matchups**: Gerrit Cole is set to start for the Yankees, bringing postseason experience with him. We’ll discuss his recent performance and how he can lead the Yankees to victory. The Dodgers are navigating injury challenges with key players like Clayton Kershaw, and we’ll examine their rotation options.
**Star players** like Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani are poised to make headlines, and we’ll highlight their postseason journeys as they aim for their first championship rings. We’ll also cover the latest injury updates and their implications for both teams.
As we analyze the **pressure on these stars**, we’ll discuss what’s at stake for Judge and Ohtani in this high-stakes moment.
Next, we’ll turn our focus to the Dodgers’ bullpen, which has been crucial to their success this postseason. Key performers like Evan Phillips and Blake Treinen have stepped up in critical situations, showcasing the depth of their pitching staff.
In a heartfelt segment, Devin will take a moment to **eulogize the special season for the New York Mets**. After a rollercoaster year filled with ups and downs, Devin will reflect on the team's promising potential and what fans can look forward to in the future.
We’ll also touch on the hypothetical move of the Chicago White Sox to Nashville, discussing the challenges and opportunities this situation presents for both the team and the city.
Finally, we’ll wrap up with a look at the Cleveland Guardians and their successful season under first-year manager Stephen Vogt, emphasizing their goals for 2025.
And hey, remember to follow us on Instagram and Twitter @tablesetterspod for exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes content, and interactive fan polls. We want to hear from you!
So grab your popcorn and settle in as we ignite the conversation only on TableSetters, where every inning brings a new story, and every pitch sets the stage for baseball's greatest moments. Let's play ball!

Blessings in the Boogie Down for Yanks, Dodgers & Mets Momentum Seesaws, Tropicana Field Damage Raises Questions about Rays' in 2024 | 34

Welcome back to TableSetters, your go-to podcast for all things baseball! Steve and Devin are back, diving deep into the week's news, with the Championship Series in progress. The Yankees' 2-0 lead over the Guardians is a big topic of conversation as the series heads to Cleveland, with the team aiming for their first World Series appearance in 15 years. We’ll discuss Game 2, where Gerrit Cole struggled, lasting just 4.1 innings and allowing two runs, while an early error by Rocchio allowed the Yankees to get on the board first. Aaron Judge made headlines with his first postseason homer, and the Yankees' bullpen stepped up, delivering 4.2 strong innings and conceding only one run. We’ll also touch on the Guardians' pitching woes, with Tanner Bibee getting pulled after just 1.1 innings and a heavy reliance on their bullpen. Despite some poor baserunning by the Yankees, it didn't impact the outcome. Finally, we’ll preview Game 3, featuring Clarke Schmidt against Matthew Boyd.
We also dive deep into the Mets and Dodgers matchup, which has seen the Dodgers take a 2-1 lead after their win tonight. Following a tough 9-0 loss in Game 1, the Mets bounced back in Game 2 with Francisco Lindor leading off with a homer. Sean Manaea pitched well, going five innings and allowing two runs, although he showed more promise than his stat line suggests. Mark Vientos made a statement after the Dodgers intentionally walked Lindor, hitting a grand slam and boosting his postseason stats to .378 with three homers and 11 RBIs in just nine games. We’ll also highlight Edwin Diaz's typical flair as he faced early trouble but struck out the side to close the game. Looking ahead, we’ll preview Game 4, and discuss the potential matchup of Yamamoto versus Quintana. Plus, we’ll touch on Brandon Nimmo's determination to play through plantar fasciitis.
Buckle up as we’ll dive into the aftermath of the recent hurricane that has left the Rays’ current stadium in disrepair. With repair costs potentially reaching hundreds of millions, we’ll explore whether St. Petersburg will find it worthwhile to invest in repairs, especially with the team set to move to a new stadium in 2028. We’ll discuss the implications of this situation on the Rays’ temporary home, considering options like local minor league stadiums and the logistical challenges involved. Additionally, we’ll touch on the financial ramifications, including potential drops in revenue and staffing issues. Finally, we’ll examine whether Major League Baseball might step in to offer financial support in this unprecedented scenario.
But that's just the tip of the iceberg, folks. We’ll highlight standout performances from the Arizona Fall League. We’ll start with Andrew Painter, who is making his first appearance since Tommy John surgery, showcasing impressive velocity that could see him joining the Phillies’ rotation in 2025. Colt Emerson has kicked off the season with a remarkable performance, batting .458 with four doubles, all at just 19 years old. We’ll also discuss Zyhir Hope, who hit a massive 470-foot homer, showing flashes of his potential after a challenging year due to injury. Lastly, we’ll touch on Xavier Isaac, already a top 100 prospect, who is off to a strong start with a .286 average and two homers in just four games, demonstrating the promise of future power at the big league level. We get into so much more, so dive in and give us your feedback!
We will also explore the surprising snub of Francisco Lindor for a Gold Glove nomination this year. The three finalists in the National League are Dansby Swanson, Ezequiel Tovar, and Masyn Winn, with standout Outs Above Average (OAA) numbers: Swanson leads with 18, followed closely by Lindor with 16 and Tovar with 15, while Winn trails with just 3. Lindor reflected on the snub, acknowledging other players had better defensive seasons but expressing his focus on winning a World Series. We’ll also discuss Juan Soto's nomination despite a -4 OAA and point out that Lindor ranked fifth among all players in OAA. For added context, Masyn Winn leads all shortstops in Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) with 14, compared to Lindor's 2. It raises interesting questions about how defensive metrics are valued in award considerations.
And hey, remember to follow us on Instagram and Twitter @tablesetterspod for exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes content, and interactive fan polls. We want to hear from you!
So grab your popcorn and settle in as we ignite the conversation only on TableSetters, where every inning brings a new story, and every pitch sets the stage for baseball's greatest moments. Let's play ball!

Lindor's Grand Slam Phinishes The Job & Boost Mets to NLCS, Gritty Tigers Push Guards to Brink, Drama Out West with Padres/Dodgers, Yanks Try to Ride Cole Train to ALCS | 33

Welcome back to TableSetters, your go-to podcast for all things baseball! Steve and Devin are back, diving deep into the week's news, with the Divisional Series in progress. The Phillies saw their season end to the relentless New York Mets in 4 games. The Tigers continue to roll and have pushed the Guardians to the brink of elimination. We discuss the improbable home run that Kerry Carpenter hit off of Clase in Game 2. The Yankees took a 2-1 series lead and now look to have Gerrit Cole clinch the series on Thursday to punch their ticket to the ALCS. We also have the drama brewing on the West Coast with the Dodgers and Padres. The fans have become a big part of this series and not in a good way. What did we think of Dave Roberts' claim that Manny Machado intentionally threw a ball at him?
Buckle up as we discuss the life and times of Luis Tiant and his impact on the game of baseball and his influence on other Cuban playing baseball. The Red Sox are sure to honor him in 2025.
But that's just the tip of the iceberg, folks. We have some updates on the Diamond Sports Group and MLB has taken the mantle of broadcasting the Brewers, Guardians and the Twins for the 2025 season which will forego blackouts in that market. We talk about the Twitter polls and the question of if we think we should boil the awards to one instead of two being league centric. We get into so much more, so dive in and give us your feedback!
And hey, remember to follow us on Instagram and Twitter @tablesetterspod for exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes content, and interactive fan polls. We want to hear from you!
So grab your popcorn and settle in as we ignite the conversation only on TableSetters, where every inning brings a new story, and every pitch sets the stage for baseball's greatest moments. Let's play ball!

Gritty Tigers Send 'Stros Home, These O's Ain't Royal, Friars Stay Hot, Mets/Brewers Split, Rest Easy Charlie Hustle | 32

Welcome back to TableSetters, your go-to podcast for all things baseball! Steve and Devin are back, diving deep into the week's news, with the Wild Card Series coming and going. As quick as the Astros, Orioles & Braves were in the playoffs, they were gone even quicker. We saw the Tigers sweep the Astros ending their 7 year streak of consecutive ALCS appearance, Royals clipping the Orioles, and the Padres sending the Braves back cross country. The only series left in question is the Mets and Brewers where we will find out who heads to the city of Brotherly Love on Thursday.
Buckle up as we discuss the life and times of Pete Rose and his impact on the game of baseball. Is there a possibility of him winding up in Cooperstown? What would that mean? 
But that's just the tip of the iceberg, folks. We have some updates on the Diamond Sports Group and their bankruptcy. Twelve teams are effected by this going forward and it will continue to loom large! We discuss the STRAUSS advertisements on the helmets for the 2024 Postseason. Are they as egregious as we originally thought they'd be. What does that mean for the future of uniforms that the real estate has been opened for profit?  We get into so much more, so dive in and give us your feedback!
And hey, remember to follow us on Instagram and Twitter @tablesetterspod for exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes content, and interactive fan polls. We want to hear from you!
So grab your popcorn and settle in as we ignite the conversation only on TableSetters, where every inning brings a new story, and every pitch sets the stage for baseball's greatest moments. Let's play ball!