Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci discuss the decline of middle-class players in the league and the challenges they face as the sport evolves.  How has training in the Spring changed for athletes?  We're surprised Anthony Rizzo still isn't on a team, but what does that say about how rosters are being built?  Joe stresses the importance of a balanced lineup of youth and experience. Tom reflects on 'baseball-lifers' and the impact they had on the sport that can still be seen today!

The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.  

#fsr

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci discuss Opening Day being around the corner and teams still looking for controlled velocity despite the impact on injuries.  Which teams are the favorites to land former Cy Young pitcher Sandy Alcantara?  We reflect on the team policies of George Steinbrenner and how things are changing with the Yankees updated rules on facial hair.  Plus, Tom remembers the career of knuckleballer Eddie Fisher, who passed away this week.

The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.  

#fsr

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci discuss Spring Training getting underway and how teams set the right tone.  We'll be watching Mike Trout moving to right field, Shohei Ohtani back on the mound, and Rafael Devers with the Red Sox. Tom explores the potential trade prospects for Vlad Guerrero while touching on the heartbreak felt by Aaron Judge after the Yankees' World Series loss.  When it comes to financial strategy, are you behind the Yankees or the Mets right now? 

The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.  

#fsr

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After watching the Eagles win the Super Bowl, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci discuss the impact of coaching and teaching.  Tom highlights the path of head coach Nick Sirianni and Defensive Coordinator Vic Fangio.  Joe explains when he thinks the game turned and when he thought the Eagles were going to win. Turning our attention back to baseball, Tom looks at the timeline for Shohei Ohtani and when we could see him back on the pitching mound.  

The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.  

#fsr

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci discuss how the Chiefs have had so much success with Patrick Mahomes.  Could a team like the Dodgers have similar success year after year?  Tom compares the winning in the NFL against how a team has to win in baseball. In other news, MLB umpire Pat Hoberg was fired after an investigation revealed his connections to gambling.  Joe gives his thoughts on betting being so parallel to sports.  Plus, Tom wants Joe's opinion on the lack of reading in today's schools and society.

The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.  

#fsr

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci discuss the 100th Baseball Writer's Dinner and the history of the event.  The evening highlighted the achievements of Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge amongst others.  Tom gave out the final award and explains how he ended up sharing the stage with Grimace!  We explore a few rule changes going into effect for next season before highlighting some Winter baseball news.   Plus, what does Joe think about Pete Carroll coming back to the NFL as head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders?

The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.  

#fsr

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci discuss the three new Hall of Famers.   Ichiro wasn't unanimous, but does it matter who didn't vote for him?  Tom questions the future of PED users in the HOF and if a hard stance ever changes.  We look at the candidates for next season and how voting could play out.  Also, the Dodgers add two pitchers and have an embarrassment of riches in the clubhouse!  Is it 'good' for baseball?  Joe explains how teams have to approach beating the Dodgers' super team.  

The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.  

#fsr

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci look at the career of Ichiro Suzuki and how his career of hitting singles will put him in the Hall of Fame!  Former MLB'er Bubba Thompson is going back to college to play football at South Alabama which takes us to multi-sport athletes and Joe working with Bo Jackson.  Joe explains how tough it is to predict a players success, even when they have incredible talent.  Plus, Tom remembers the life and career of Felix Mantilla.

The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.  

#fsr

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci explore the current state of first base in MLB.  Joe describes his 'prototype' first baseman and gives his thoughts on Pete Alonso's future deal moving so slowly.  What obstacles could be in the way of Billy Wagner's Hall of Fame chances?  Tom highlights a court ruling that could change the landscape of College Baseball.  Plus, our yearly look at what the hot cars for 2024 were and what new ride could Joe be adding to his fleet?

The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.  

#fsr

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'The Book of Joe' Podcast, Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci give 25 reasons to be excited about MLB 2025!  Tom highlights some scheduled dates this season including the Mets retiring David Wright's #5.  Which milestones will some future Hall of Famers be crossing in 2025? After an exciting start with the Tokyo Series, Joe gives his thoughts on the coming MLB Speedway Classic at Bristol Motor Speedway.  Plus, what players will end 2025 as Hall of Famers?

Happy New Year!

The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio.  

#fsr

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.