Braves pitcher Mike Soroka chats mechanical tweaks, 2022 rehab & more + free agency, postseason awards predictions

755 Is Real - Beyond The Paywall: David O'Brien and Eric O'Flaherty dissect, explore and cover all things Atlanta Braves twice weekly. Every Tuesday, you can listen to 755 Is Real for free on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts, while you can catch Friday's episode exclusively on The Athletic. You can start your 40% off subscription today by joining through theathletic.com/755isreal by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

2 min listen

Dissecting Acuna & Rotation Rundown: I'm not sure if David is feasting on BBQ in Kansas City, but today's episode with him and Eric is saucy! The guys discuss Freddie's bone spur (2:00) and substitutes at first base in the impending Royals series (5:30). David and Eric then lunge into Acuna's high strike out volume in the month of September while still boasting a respectable OPS, all the while contending for an illustrious 40/40 season (11:30). After, a rotation rundown ensues as the guys attempt to lay down a NLDS pitching blue print (21:00), and Eric breaks down Folty's dominant start against San Francisco (26:50). Before clocking out, the duo deliberate if starting Dansby is the right move considering his poor hitting since returning from the IL (32:15) and will any Bravos' coaches be candidates for teams' managerial openings (38:45)? by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

49 min listen

King Felix Redux, Spring Training Pitching & Prado Returns: DOB & EOF kick off today's show reviewing King Felix's recent string of strong outings at Spring Training (:20). The Bravos Boys also examine Kyle Wright's pitching adjustments, and Eric explains the process of critiquing mechanics (5:15). David recaps King Felix's postgame conference (15:30). The duo canvas Shane Green's struggles; what's the mentality of closers/relievers in meaningless Spring Training games (20:15)? The battle for third base continues (27:45), and Atlanta would love to have Prado back (34:15). by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

43 min listen

10 Predictions for 2020!: Happy New Year everyone! David and Eric can't believe pitchers and catchers report in just six-ish weeks! The guys chat about the Braves newest workout facility, options at clean up & share their predictions for 2020! by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

92 min listen

The last game, MLB opioid testing, B-Mac's lasting impact & more with Peter Moylan: OK. Lots to get to in today's show: DOB, EOF and the always great Peter Moylan, discuss the exposed pitching staffs during the playoffs (1:45) and revisit the Bravos season-ending loss to St. Louis (11:00). After, the guys react to the recent Tyler Skaggs news (20:00), B-Mac's impressions on Eric and Peter are ever lasting (30:15), plus, just how good of a manager could McCann be? Moylo gives us an idea of who the Braves should re-sign this off-season (47:00), and how much JD's price tag will be (52:30). Who else should Atlanta target this post-season? The gang prioritizes their top, potential signees (1:14:00), and then debate if Newcomb has the stuff to be a top-flight starter (1:17:30). Is there a greater signal that this team is 'all in' if they sign Garrit Cole; and other front office chatter (1:20:00). by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

102 min listen

Freak Out Over Freeman & Defensive Analytics Discussion with Sports Info Solutions Mark Simon: DOB & EOF calmly and shrewdly attempt to talk Bravos fans down from the ledge after Freddie Freeman was scratched from Tuesday's Spring Training exhibition with irritation in his elbow (1:15). The Bravos Boys welcome Sports Info Solutions analyst and co-author of "Fielding Bible Volume V", Mark Simon, to the program to answer their burning analytics questions, including: How much have the Braves improved in DRS (Defensive Runs Saved), why have Freeman's metrics belied his outstanding defensive ability (16:45), will there be a falloff in DRS without Donaldson (25:00), how much can Acuna grow defensively (29:40) & how is Swanson viewed in the defensive metrics community (38:00)? Can King Felix compete for a back of the rotation position (48:30)? Plus, some of the young Braves are humongous (54:15). by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

64 min listen

Scherzer's status, Soto's value and Taubman's firing with Britt Ghiroli!: DOB and EOF inhale their seventh and final cup of coffee before welcoming the brilliant and insightful Washington writer for The Athletic, Britt Ghiroli, to the show! Britt reacts to the Astros' sweep in Nationals Park (2:00), and the pertinent narratives of the last three games, including Scherzer's injury, which Eric gives context to (5:15). Afterwards, Britt describes what it is like covering the World Series (12:00) before the triumvirate discuss Strasburg's maturation and impact (25:15). The herd then weigh the value of each soon-to-be Nationals free agent and Britt explains the team's priorities (30:30). Juan Soto will eventually get big bucks, but will he sign a deal like Acuna's, plus, how about Soto and Acuna being apart of the same division for the foreseeable future (38:00)?! As the group clocks out, Britt serves up her opinion on the Astros/Brandon Taubman debacle (42:00), and DOB and EOF give their g by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

68 min listen

King Felix joins the Braves Kingdom: DOB & EOF, fresh off a trip to the kitchen for coffee and Cabo, respectively, deliberate the hypothetical addition of Nolan Arenado in Atlanta following reports of his discontent in the Mile High City (2:00). The Braves Boys bound directly into talk of Felix Hernandez's coupling with Atlanta, and what it could mean for the 33-year-old former Cy Young Award winner (11:00). Though the excitement of the acquisition is palpable, the guys advise you to, temporarily, temper your expectations (23:30). Eric revisits his time playing with King Felix in Seattle, as well as, their, optically, identical injuries (30:00). Could Hernandez emulate Anibal Sanchez's resurgence (44:30)? Plus, the similarities between Andruw Jones and King Felix are uncanny (50:30). Lastly, the duo chat B-Mac and the 'Stros (1:06:15). by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

83 min listen

Looking to clinch the NL East, scary moment for Culberson & Soroka's case for Cy Young: Playoff spot clinched! DOB & EOF react to the Braves trip to Philadelphia and D.C., and the opportunity to clinch their second consecutive division title. The magic number is down to 3 (2:15), an ugly incident in Washington involving Charlie Culberson taking a 91 MPH Fernando Rodney fastball to the face (4:05), Nationals manager Dave Martinez hospitalized for a heart procedure (7:06), welcome back Nick Markakis (20:38), Brian Snitker's emotional relationship his players (24:52), what to make of Max Fried's struggles over his last two starts (31:09), Mike Sirotka's case for Cy Young with Hyun-Jin Ryu's late season struggles in L.A. (33:34), forecasting a potential playoff rotation (38:24), Mike Foltynewicz showing he can be trusted in the postseason (46:38), Clayton Kershaw and the Dodgers falling off late (53:15). by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

66 min listen

The return of the Aussie: From the Czech to Atlanta, the new Mr. World Wide, Peter Moylan, joins DOB and EOF to chat a plethora of topics, including: when will the Bravos clinch the NL East (1:15), is home field necessary (6:00), is Bryce Harper even a top-5 player in the East (10:15), pitching celebrations and a contemporary and loose front office (15:30), are the Braves the best in the NL (26:30), Soroka's down-to-earth performances (32:15), the postseason rotation (41:15), the Trey Flower conundrum (45:30), crossing signals and Eric takes shit from McCann (49:30) and Jason Pare's amiable comments (56:00). by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

75 min listen

The delightful Dale Murphy joins the program!: DOB & EOF are ecstatic to welcome Braves legend, Dale Murphy, back to the program! The company reacts to Dale being named to the 2020 Modern Baseball Era HOF ballot (1:00), and discuss what it would be to him if he were voted in. The group discusses the likes of Fred McGriff, and other HOF snubs (14:15), plus, David reveals two instances that could help Dale's chances at being enshrined (16:15). Did years of a heavy workload contribute to Dale's injuries, and are his years of service partially to blame for him not already being a HOFer (25:30)? Dale then provides his thoughts on the Braves postseason collapse (34:15), Acuna's maturation (38:15), Freddie's injury (51:15), the ubiquitous criticism on social media (54:15), and necessary moves Atlanta needs to make this off-season (1:03:00). David and Eric close today's show by postulating what big moves the Braves could make this off-season (1:08:15). by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

77 min listen

Hamels honed in, Waters' Swagger & Baker's Back: DOB & EOF are psyched for the 2020 season, as we're a week away from pitchers and catchers reporting. The three syllable duo discuss Cole Hamels' professionalism and how he'll impact Atlanta's young rotation (6:00), and compare his career numbers to that of the projected members of the opening-day rotation (14:30). Next, the Braves Boys address Inciarte's future, including his comments at ChopFest and keeping Acuna in right field (19:45). The Braves top two position-player prospects, Drew Waters and Cristian Pache are zeroed in on the upcoming major league camp (27:30). Also, Waters' swagger is reminiscent of a certain Braves legend (41:45). Plus, Dusty Baker dusts off his old sweatbands (53:00). by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

63 min listen

The Money Morass & MLB Proposed Safety Protocols: When they aren't resetting their modems or running from bears, DOB & EOF are discussing baseball, but seeing as there's no baseball, the duo instead explore the question, 'why isn't there baseball yet'? The guys breakdown the perceived hangup, money, from both the players and owners perspectives (:30), and muse the losses, public image and more, of both parties, while the negotiations continue to stall (16:00). The Bravos Boys also examine The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal and Evan Drellich recent report detailing the safety protocols Major League Baseball is proposing (25:15), including condemning spitting, unnecessary physical contact (high fives) and more, plus how does the league intend to enforce these rules (36:30)? by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

51 min listen

The 2010s: Best Braves of the Decade: DOB & EOF breakdown their list for the top Bravos of the 20-teens! The unanimous selection at first base is...(2:15 -- it's pretty obvious)? Who locks down second (8:15) and third base (14:00), plus who caps off the middle of the defense (22:15)? David and Eric reveal their best catcher (27:15) before announcing the avant-garde of the outfield (31:00). Wrapping up the all-decade club, Atlanta's cream of the crop on the mound (42:00), including the 2010's No. 1 closer (56:00). by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

63 min listen

Update from the Winter Meetings: Murph snubbed, Strasburg makes bank & Cole Hamels: 755 is taking over the West Coast! With DOB chasing leads and reporting from the Winter Meetings in San Diego, Eric plugging in his mic; which was hanging from his Christmas tree as an ornament (courtesy the kiddos) and producer Cam in his 5x5 "plush" LA apartment outside the 10, we launch into today's show by trying to comprehend Murph being stiffed from the HOF (again - 5:00). The Band of Braves react to Strasburg staying put in Washington (13:50), plus where will Rendon land after the WS MVP re-signed (23:45)? Atlanta enlisted the services of Cole Hamels last week; David and Eric react to the acquisition (39:50). What will the Braves do with the rest of their cash (54:15)? by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

66 min listen

Red Sox's Punishment & Atlanta Braves Fan Survey Results: DOB & EOF react to The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal's and Evan Drellich's report regarding the Boston's Red Sox punishment from their sign-stealing scandal in 2018 (1:00). Are the penalties imposed by Major League Baseball appropriate? Plus, Eric explains the difference between decoding and sign-stealing. Next up, the guys elaborate on the results from David's Atlanta Braves fan survey, which include, but are not limited to: What is the excitement level for 2020 (pre-quarantine); What would make a successful season (16:45); Who should start at 3rd base (25:45); Confidence Meter: Anthopoulos (29:55) and Snitker (35:30); Who is the face of the franchise (46:10); Favorite all-time Braves player (54:45); Will Acuna record a 40/40 season in the next full playing year (1:04:00) and which throwback uniforms belong in Atlanta's rotation (1:08:30)? by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

78 min listen

The Braves are ready for St. Louis: DOB & EOF, much like the Braves, are ready for postseason baseball (2:30). The Bravos Boys touch on minor inconsistencies with some guys, as well as ailments that are bugging some players (8:30); which reminds Eric of Louis Avilan's "major" injury (13:30). Afterwards, the gents examine the Cardinals and Braves veterans and how they will stack up this series (20:15). The MLB is pulling the city of Atlanta's leg, right? Sam Holbrook, who made the controversial infield fly ruling in the 2012 wild card against the Braves, is the crew chief for the NLDS (33:15). The two reflect on moments from the 2012 wild card before discussing the nuances of modern replay and its effect on baseball (49:00). A review of previous Braves postseason appearances (52:30) is followed by a glance at some rather interesting statistics (58:30), and a discussion of who could be the Braves most inconspicuous impact player (1:04:30). by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

71 min listen

JD Departs & Sign Stealing Fallout: DOB & EOF are thrilled to return behind the mic...though their excitement is somewhat tempered by a certain third baseman not being re-signed. Before that, the duo react to the ramifications of Houston's sign stealing fiasco, and postulate what will happen with Boston (1:00). Next, the three-initialed hosts break down Josh Donaldson's departure from Atlanta to the Twin Cities (11:30), as well as, which bats could fill the empty shoes left behind (23:30). The Braves Boys revisit the sign stealing scandal and dive into the minutia of the conundrum (35:15), including: what will happen to Beltre? To close, welcome to your new ballpark...Truist...Park...yay (52:00). by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

63 min listen

Soroka's stellar start & Is Freddie's elbow affecting his play?: DOB & EOF are revved up for game five of the NLDS! Before looking ahead to Wednesday, the Bravos Boys recap the first four games of the series (1:30) before praising Soroko's masterful start (5:15). Acuña continues to amaze (10:30), and is Freddie's elbow affecting his play (19:15)? Should we have tempered our expectations of Teheran entering postseason play (27:30)? Lastly, the guys cover the remaining playoff series (36:30). by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

49 min listen

The King's Command, Soroka Working with d'Arnaud & Acuna's Spring: DOB from CoolToday Park in North Port, Florida, and EOF from his abode in Seattle unite to share updates on Atlanta's rotation (:30). How impactful can Sean Newcomb be to this rotation if he cuts down on the walks (7:00)? The duo parse Red Sox manager Ron Roenicke's comments about Hernandez's improved command, and discuss how it helps him at this stage of his career (12:15). The guys react to Soroka's outing, and his comments regarding Opening Day (20:50). Eric enlightens us on what it means when pitchers describe the "feel" of a pitch (25:50). The Bravos Boys read into Soroka's praise for Travis d'Arnaud through three weeks of Spring Training (28:00). Plus, Ronald Acuna evaluates his performance this Spring (30:45). by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

44 min listen

Flowers, d'Arnaud Out Opening Day, Ballpark Atmosphere & Hamels Hits IL: DOB and EOF react to Thursday's baseball openers (:45) before discussing Juan Soto's positive Covid-19 test, and the expanded playoff format (9:30). The duo share their thoughts about the ambiance of the empty ballparks (15:00) as well as the improvements made to the playoff format (22:30). We understand if you like fan cutouts in the stand, but there's no room in the game for "virtual fans" (27:30). The podcast is then interrupted by breaking news of Braves catchers Tyler Flowers and Travis d'Arnaud being unavailable due to illness, and rookie Alex Jackson starting behind the dish in their stead (36:15). The boys wrap up today's edition of the show discussing Cole Hamels' move to the 45-day IL (40:00). by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

49 min listen

Welcome home Will Smith: DOB & EOF have settled back into their daily routines after being abroad last week. The duo reacts to Atlanta landing Will Smith (3:00) and entertain the impact he will have on the Bravos pen next season. David expounds on qualifying offers and compensatory picks amidst the free agency period (13:30), and Eric shares his thoughts on the latest addition to the Cubs, David Ross (20:00). The guys further their free agency discussions by thinking of potential outfield targets (27:30), available catchers (32:00), and of course, more JD figures (35:30). Before punching out, we react to Major League Baseball's proposal to cut ties with 40+ Minor League clubs (38:00). by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

51 min listen

Can Atlanta land Lindor & Sign Stealing: DOB & EOF are road warriors. David sparks scintillating conversation while recording from the GM Meetings in Arizona, and Eric keeps coming with the great insight from Hawaii at 4:30 am! The team talks trade rumors (1:00), including whether the Bravos can land a piece like Kris Bryant (14:00) and/or Francisco Lindor (19:15). After, the guys react to Ken Rosenthal's and Evan Drellich's story of the Astros using electronic means to steal signs (29:30). Plus, who are the Braves untouchables (47:00) and will Moylo share his future Olympic gold medal with us (1:10:30)? by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

80 min listen

Markakis Doesn't Mince Words, Hamels' Injury & Early Standouts: DOB & EOF punch the record button and react to Nick Markakis' thoughts on Houston's sign stealing scandal (6:00). Are condemnations of the Astros actions from those like Markakis and Mike Trout warranted? Eric predicts how Houston will be treated across the MLB landscape (19:15) before the duo dive into Cole Hamels' injury (24:30). What silver lining is there to this predicament, if any (28:00)? Also, the guys highlight a few Bravos who have stood out in early BP rounds (34:00). by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

52 min listen

Chatting Culberson, Astros debacle and Offseason moves with Jeff Francoeur!: DOB, with his Nokia, and EOF, with his iPhone X, dial up former stellar Braves outfielder and Fox Sports broadcaster, Jeff Francoeur! The Braves battalion deliberate the consequences of Houston's scandal (2:30), and unpack Atlanta's decision to non-tender Culberson (11:00). Jeff reveals his thoughts on the division series (15:30) before the crew decides on their most encouraging performance of the year (30:30). How impactful can the offseason acquisitions be (36:00), and just how willing are the Braves to open their wallet the remainder of the offseason (47:00)? by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

62 min listen

The Tale of Evan Gattis Pt. 1: DOB & EOF welcome former Atlanta Braves and Houston Astros catcher/DH, Evan Gattis, to the program! The gang venture through Gattis' journey from standout high school baller combating anxiety and depression, to his time as a janitor, ski lift operator and someone seeking spiritual enlightenment on his way to fulfilling his big league dreams. by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

107 min listen

755 Welcomes the Wonderful Kelsey Wingert!: DOB and EOF gleefully welcome former Fox Sports South reporter, Kelsey Wingert, to the program. Kelsey chronicles her time in a world without sports, and the overwhelming sense of joy she had covering Atlanta sports, including the Braves (1:00). She also details her experiences being near Bravos players and coaches in the clubhouse and dugout (14:15), the outpouring of support Atlanta sports fans have shown her (18:10), grappling with the reality of not working alongside the Braves (23:30), representing women sportscasters and the obstacles the industry presents (29:30), aspirations of working sideline long-term in Atlanta (32:10) and more. The Bravos Boys wrap up today's show by canvassing the players/owners agreement and its effect on the Braves (43:15). by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

72 min listen

Ozuna's On Board & The ChopFest Chronicles: DOB & EOF rendezvous back at their mics to breakdown Atlanta's deal with Marcell Ozuna (1:30). How will this pairing effect the outfield rotation (23:30)? The term of Ozuna's deal benefits the Braves' youngsters (33:00). The third base battle begins (43:20), and the Braves Boys react to Freddie's health (59:30) and sign stealing (1:04:00) comments. by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

87 min listen

The legendary Chipper Jones joins the show!: DOB & EOF are back from their brief respite to preview the World Series (4:00), and provide an update on Freddie after his procedure (11:15) before welcoming in the man who needs no introduction: Chipper Jones (23:30)! The triumvirate touch on the Astros and NLDS (30:15), and chat about the prodigy, Mike Soroka (37:30). The guys also discuss: B-Mac (39:30), Martin Prado (46:30), the 2009 Boston game (1:07:15), the HOF (1:17:30), Barry Bonds and Bobby Cox (1:40:15) and Atlanta's off-season priorities (1:48:30). by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

117 min listen

MLB Owners' Proposal, Is There a Winner in A Lost Season & Soroka or Flaherty?: DOB & EOF return to react to the latest from The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal and ESPN's Jeff Passan regarding a proposal to play the 2020 season from MLB owners (1:00). The Bravos Boys outline the proposal and tackle the minutiae of the deal (13:00), including: Reconfiguring training camp, roster spots, and divisions as well as managing teams who can't play in their home stadiums (19:15) and incorporating the universal DH rule (27:30). Is there a party that wins if there's no season? David and Eric breakdown potential ramifications in a year without baseball (34:00) before discussing who the best under-25 starter in the National League, Mike Soroka or Jack Flaherty (45:45). by 755 Is Real: A show about the Atlanta Braves

59 min listen

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Braves pitcher Mike Soroka chats mechanical tweaks, 2022 rehab & more + free agency, postseason awards predictions

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