Fantasy Focus Baseball
ESPN fantasy experts Eric Karabell and Tristan Cockroft provide strategy, game overviews and injury reports.
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espn.com/espnradio/podcast/indexEpisodes
"One Last Time"
Eric and Tristan discuss a pair of last second trades, evaluate all your burning questions and sign off for one final time!
2022-04-07Link to episode
Last Minute Major Ranking Adjustments
Eric and Tristan talk the redraft value of future fantasy monster Bobby Witt Jr.,, trying to properly value injured stars and answer your burning hashbrowns!
2022-04-04Link to episode
Sleepers And Starting Pitching Tiers
Eric and Tristan project the roles of hot shot prospects, debate starting pitcher tiers and dive into Tristan's top sleepers for the 2022 season!
2022-03-31Link to episode
Ketel Cashes, Grichuk Gains And An Outfield Preview
Eric and Tristan discuss a pair of players with their value trending up, their impressions on some spring developments and breakdown the outfield position as a whole.
2022-03-28Link to episode
Spring Stars And Pressing Questions
Eric and Tristan give early impressions on Spring games, talk pitchers unearthed in the "Kings Of Command" exercise, preview the corner infield spots and pick apart a recent points league mock draft before answering your draft day questions!
2022-03-24Link to episode
Telling A Story Of Increased Value?
Eric and Tristan take a look at the impact of recent signings on the middle infield hierarchy, wonder what the 2022 Phillies will offer fantasy managers and take their pick on some high profile closers.
2022-03-21Link to episode
New Teams, New Roles And Closers Oh My!
Eric and Tristan discuss recent expert drafts, early feels for free agency and help you start your draft prep process now that a season is officially on the horizon!
2022-03-14Link to episode
Fantasy Baseball 2022: What's Changed?
Eric and Tristan discuss the impact of the universal DH, what the advanced pitching metrics from 2021 mean for 2022, how experts are drafting, where to draft Mike Trout and answer your offseason questions!
2022-03-01Link to episode
Is Max Scherzer Worth The Fantasy Price Tag?
Eric and Tristan talk Max Scherzer's future in New York (2:25), the Rangers middle infield (7:30) and the other impact signings across the league (12:25).
2021-12-01Link to episode
Question Marks And Breakouts For 2022
Eric and Tristan share what they learned from the postseason for fantasy baseball 2022 (1:00), the retirement of Buster Posey (8:00), how to approach the banged up stars (10:30) and the overall ranking process heading into an uncertain 2022 (19:10).
2021-11-09Link to episode
2021 Recap And The 2022 First Round
Eric and Tristan talk final Player Rater standings (4:40), the top of the 2022 board (7:00), 2021 combo meals leaders (11:15) and what to do with 2021 breakout performers (18:30)!
2021-10-04Link to episode
Extraordinary, Historic And ... Unsustainable?
Eric and Tristan mine value from motivated teams (1:25), speculate on Shohei Ohtani moving forward (5:45), discuss the impact of speed (12:40) and answer your hash browns (25:00).
2021-09-30Link to episode
Finishing Strong!
Eric and Tristan talk weekend Yankee headlines (2:00), detail teams poised for a strong final week (6:00), debate how much impact to give your gut (9:30) and evaluate the closer position moving forward (17:05).
2021-09-27Link to episode
2021 Legacy: Home Run Derby
Eric and Tristan discuss end of season strategy (0:45), home run totals of note (5:30), season ending storylines (8:25) and what the weekend looks like with shuffling rotations (20:42).
2021-09-23Link to episode
Late Season Decisions
Eric and Tristan talk the rotation shuffling down the stretch (3:30), marvel at a unique Eddie Rosario cycle (6:30), evaluate some late season closer chaos (12:10) and take a look at the next three days of games (17:00).
2021-09-20Link to episode
Robbie Ray: Fantasy MVP?
Eric and Tristan breakdown what to make of the Yankees in 2022 (3:05) and the breaking out of Robbie Ray (6:20) while guessing who could be next year's version of the Jays' star. They discuss what to do with Mike Trout next season (12:25), fantasy MVP front runners (18:00) and preview the weekend slate (27:05).
2021-09-16Link to episode
Top SP Tier: Who Makes The Cut?
Eric and Tristan take a look at the top tier of pitching for 2022 (4:05), the ever-changing value of Francisco Lindor (8:30), copious combo mealers (19:40) and a preview of the coming days (31:00).
2021-09-13Link to episode
Super Schwindel And 2022 Rankings Talk
Eric and Tristan talk about the popular adds including a Frank Schwindel heater (1:00), speculate on ranking tweaks if the DH goes league wide (5:00), appreciate the impact of Adam Wainwright (7:40) and dropping injured stars (13:00). They dive into the biggest bust of 2020 (17:45) and preview the weekend action (24:50).
2021-09-09Link to episode
"A Headache For Fantasy Managers"
Eric and Tristan discuss the situation that is rostering Adalberto Mondesi (1:00) and sitting starters (2:55) before Karabell (8:00) shares a story and Cockcroft poses an interesting question (15:00). They have you covered for the entire week coming ahead as we approach Labor Day (29:05).
2021-09-02Link to episode
Rankings: The Need For Speed
Eric and Tristan discuss Starling Marte's surge (1:25), the hitting race for the top of the Player Rater (7:15), a closer in waiting that needs to be added (13:25) and go through the first half of the week (18:15).
2021-08-30Link to episode
Aces: Rest Of Season Thoughts And 2022 Tiers
Eric and Tristan wonder how long they have to wait to draft a Little Leaguer (1:00), discuss aces on the fantasy chopping block (9:00), take an early look at 2022's pitching landscape (11:30) and evaluate some older players that aren't going away (19:30).
2021-08-26Link to episode
Is Mike Trout A First Rounder?
Eric and Tristan discuss the Karabell called shot (0:10), recap the Williamsport spotlight series (6:00) and wonder aloud where Mike Trout ranks next season (16:30). They've got you covered on saves the rest of the way (19:00) and streamers for the week (25:05).
2021-08-23Link to episode
Deal Or No Deal?
Eric and Tristan talk the greatness of Shohei Ohtani (0:15), the tough spot Christian Yelich is putting you in (6:25), the sustainability of a dozen players (10:40) and take your questions (32:00).
2021-08-19Link to episode
Fernando Tatis: What Does The Future Hold?
Eric and Tristan discuss the future value of Fernando Tatis (2:35), the return of Chris Sale (8:35), an out-of-nowhere no-no (9:40) and a closer on the rise (15:55). With the fantasy trade deadline approaching, the week preview (23:15) is as critical this week as any!
2021-08-16Link to episode
Coming For That Number 1 Spot?
Tristan and Dave discuss the Field of Dreams teams (2:30), Corbin Burnes' gem (8:55) and how the race for the Cy Young Awards will impact the end of the fantasy season (17:30). Other discussion points include: Cody Bellinger's effort to bail you out (22:20), Joey Votto's resurgence (28:00) and struggling closers (35:20).
2021-08-12Link to episode
League Winners Returning To Action
Tristan and Todd look ahead to Chris Sale's season debut (2:25) in addition to the returns of Luis Robert (9:25) and Jack Flaherty (12:10) before discussing the Ramon Laureano suspension (15:35). They also run through the breakout season of Zack Wheeler and Todd's passion for Rafael Ortega (21:00) ahead of chasing saves (35:30).
2021-08-09Link to episode
Angels Off The Field
Eric and Dave wonder aloud on the value of the Angles (1:40), discuss the stars of an Olympic run (5:20) and talk the "new normal" for promising prospects (11:45). After that, they talk the impact of speed (17:30) and take a peak at the weekend slate (23:30).
2021-08-05Link to episode
Rest Of Season: Bearish On Bellinger, Danger In deGrom
Eric and Dave go over all of the deadline deals (3:15), the Cody Bellinger conundrum (8:00) and take a look at the recent injuries to stars (10:00) before talking the Joey Votto power surge (12:30) and the new look bullpens (19:00).
2021-08-02Link to episode
Trade Deadline: Ranking Tweaks, Depth Charts And Dynasty
Eric and Tristan rank the big names in new places (1:00), discuss Joey Votto's power surge (12:20) and provide bullpen hierarchy updates (17:20). They then preview the action this weekend as you look to move up the standings (21:00)!
2021-07-29Link to episode
Early Trades: Winners And Losers
Eric and Tristan breakdown the early deadline deals (1:05), injuries that may linger (11:10) and take a look at the crumbling closers (21:00). They then help you navigate the week ahead (27:10) as you look to move up those standings!
2021-07-26Link to episode
Underrated Players To Acquire
Eric and Tristan discuss FAAB budgeting ahead of the deadline (2:00), some big-time injuries/the free agents to consider (4:45), the Yermin Mercedes situation (8:40) and the impact of the crackdown on grip substances (10:50). They discuss the consistently underrated Chris Taylor (15:00) and which fringe closers deserve your attention (19:30).
2021-07-22Link to episode
Streaking: Time To Take Notice?
Eric and Tristan discuss a pair of big injuries in New York (0:45), stability versus potential on the waiver wire (4:00), Jake Cronenworth's value (9:25) and if whispers around Giancarlo Stanton's position matter (15:50). They discuss reliever values as the trade deadline approach (17:15) and preview the week ahead (23:25).
2021-07-19Link to episode
Star Players: Second Half And Beyond
Eric and Tristan discuss the impact of the All Star festivities (1:00), evaluate the top of the MLB Draft (11:20) and offer insight on the Ronald Acuna torn ACL (15:20). In the second half of the podcast, they prepare you for the weekend (32:15) and answer your questions (36:30).
2021-07-15Link to episode
Valuable Pitchers And Second Half Regression
Eric and Tristan talk Clayton Kershaw's trip to the IL (0:55), the pending return of Eloy Jimenez (4:25) and name their most valuable pitcher of the first half (6:20). Tristan debunks the "Home Run Derby Curse" (10:00) before they talk second half regression potential (21:05) and the final games on the first half (27:00).
2021-07-08Link to episode
First Half League Winners
Eric and Tristan talk first half hitter of the year candidates (1:15) and the top value on the board thus far (5:55) before talking injuries (7:50) and the Trevor Bauer situation (10:55). They discuss the staying power of recent combo mealers (14:20), try to help you collect saves (18:10) and preview the next two days (24:40).
2021-07-06Link to episode
Batting Averages, Cycle Meals & Silly Songs
Tristan Cockcroft and AJ Mass break down everything you need to know heading into the 4th of July weekend, including another YES-NO segment on pitchers, if AJ is worried about lower batting averages across the league and your twitter hasbrowns!
2021-07-01Link to episode
EK & DD Throwback Podcast!
Eric is joined by Daniel Dopp (Kyle and Tristan are on vacation) and together they (Eric), dive into this week's set of games, play a YES - NO game with starting pitchers, talk combo meals, closer carousel and of course, some music.
2021-06-28Link to episode
Popular Adds: Buy Or Sell?
Eric and Tristan discuss the Hall of Fame credentials of Wander Franco (0:15), what to do on the waiver wire (5:00), the Blue Jays lineup (10:20) and annoying sounds at the house that only occur during the podcast (15:40). They also get you set for the weekend with some pitchers to stream (26:30).
2021-06-24Link to episode
"Expect Greatness"
Eric and Tristan celebrate Wander Franco Day (1:10), remain in awe of slugger Shohei (12:50) and discuss a pair of hitters currently hotter than the sun (16:20)! They, of course, help you solve 9th innings (27:30) and preview the week ahead (33:50).
2021-06-21Link to episode
You Lost Your Ace, Now What?
Eric and Tristan talk about trying to build a competitive roster amid injuries (0:50), revisit Jared Walsh vs Matt Olson (15:55), help you find saves (24:00) and preview the weekend (28:00).
2021-06-17Link to episode
Can You Betts on Mookie?
Eric and Tristan talk early season standings (1:20), what to make of the returning Twins (3:00), Trevor Bauer's recent bump in the road (7:35) and if the Mookie struggles are worrisome (11:30). After that, a disagreement on a recently trending pitcher (15:45), feelings on Alex Wood (18:00) and preview the first half of the week (22:50).
2021-06-14Link to episode
Moving Pieces
Eric and Tristan tackle the impact of Spider Tack (0:50), wonder if prospects are worth it in redraft formats (4:30), warn about summer inning limits (12:40) and discuss the impact of weather (14:30). They run down the closer news (19:30) and preview the weekend (23:45) before answering your hashbrowns (33:00).
2021-06-10Link to episode
Too Legit To Quit?
Eric and Tristan talk through the Jesse Winker (0:15) and Patrick Wisdom (5:00) production, Byron Buxton 2.0 (9:15) and preview the week ahead (23:30) before having the Luis Severino discussion (36:40) and answering your hash browns (34:25)!
2021-06-07Link to episode
Reaction Time: Tough Roster Decisions
Eric and Tristan discuss players on the fringe of free agency in ESPN leagues (0:25), a Mets duo to buy low on (10:00), pitchers nearing the ranking discussion (14:00) and closers on shaky ground (19:20). And, of course, they prepare you for an eventful weekend courtesy of Tristan's forecaster (25:05).
2021-06-03Link to episode
Trade Chatter: Cash In Your Chips?
Eric and Tristan highlight the points league leader one-third of the way through the season (0:40), evaluate the rest of season value of Trevor Story (6:25), wonder who the top pick if drafting right now would be (8:30) and mine for saves (17:30). They get you ready for the next few days and offer some DFS insight too (23:40)!
2021-06-01Link to episode
Triple Crown?
Eric and Tristan try their best to help you cure the injury bug (0:30), debate Cody Bellinger vs Christian Yelich (6:20), offer up their thoughts on the holiday weekend slate (14:15) and answer your best questions (27:44).
2021-05-27Link to episode
Here Come Hiura: Difference Maker?
Eric and Tristan discuss the interesting Rays trade (0:30), buying opportunities resulting from injuries (6:00), the Luis Castillo problem (8:00) and advice to "win your league right now"! The Brewers made an impactful move mid-show (16:00) and they break down the week ahead (27:30).
2021-05-24Link to episode
Los Angeles: The City of ... Injuries
Eric and Tristan talk with Stephania Bell about the injuries in Los Angeles (1:00) including a potential "turning point" moment for Mike Trout (17:30), no hitter palooza (22:00), a look at an elite closer gaining a role (24:00) and some streamers to consider for the weekend (28:10).
2021-05-20Link to episode
Hold'em Or Fold'em?
Eric and Tristan react to the Corey Seager injury (1:00), wonder what to do with the pitchers blowing up your ERA (11:00), a "points league building block" that doesn't get enough respect (12:05) and a look back at the surprise pitching performances (16:30). They try help you sort through closer chaos (21:00) and have you covered with the week preview (24:30).
2021-05-17Link to episode
Rest Of Season Difference Makers
Eric and Tristan evaluate Seattle's youth movement (1:05), discuss the mechanics of a fantasy trade (6:35), breakdown the impact injuries have on pitcher ranks (8:15) and ponder what early season breakouts mean long-term (12:20). They've got you covered on closers (22:20) before previewing the next few days (28:00).
2021-05-13Link to episode