Dodgers and Phillies collide in a marquee NLDS, anchored by Otani’s first playoff start as leadoff against Christopher Sanchez. Philly counters with a lefty trio (Sanchez, Lazardo, Suarez) while LA leans on Yamamoto and Glasnow, with rest days shaping the rotation and bullpen depth. The off-days could tilt leverage starts and force unusual bullpen alignments, making every decision magnified for fantasy managers.

Beyond this series, Cubs-Brewers heat up as a second NL spotlight, with Freddy Peralta opening for Milwaukee, Kate Horton looming for Chicago, and a bullpen-centric grind that could spark upsets. Even if LA looks strongest on paper, the Phillies’ lineup and late-game depth keep October unpredictable and ripe for fantasy value on both sides.

Mike Schmidt expresses optimism as he analyzes the early games of the Philadelphia Phillies. He praises the team's offensive dynamism and the addition of new players while noting that consistency against weaker teams is essential. Schmidt shares insights on maintaining momentum for the playoffs, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of postseason performance, especially against top pitching. He acknowledges the importance of key players like Trey Turner and Kyle Schwarber, while also discussing the significance of the bullpen in the team's success. Schmidt's ongoing work with Sunsmart America highlights his commitment to raising awareness about skin cancer.

Choosing third in a mock draft can be a tricky endeavor, especially with top names like Bobby Witt Jr. and Aaron Judge already off the board. This episode advises picking Shohei Ohtani at the third spot, showcasing his dual threat as a hitter and pitcher. The host discusses the challenge of constructing a balanced roster around Ohtani, addressing significant positional drop-offs.

Rounds two through six focus on filling key positions, with notable picks like Jackson Churio, Trey Turner, and A.J. Albies to solidify the infield and outfield. The importance of hitting power is emphasized as they strategize on acquiring pitchers later in the draft, including Luis Castillo and Hunter Greene, despite acknowledging the risk involved.

As the discussion progresses, the hosts examine the strengths and weaknesses of the final roster, highlighting the need for depth in the outfield with players like Luis Robert Jr. The episode wraps up with a debate over the effectiveness of the chosen closers, Pete Fairbanks and Kenley Jansen, suggesting a willingness to navigate the challenges of saving races in the upcoming season.

Ranking the top shortstops in Major League Baseball has sparked debate, particularly with the placement of players like Gunnar Henderson and Dansby Swanson. The argument centers on Swanson's ranking amidst perceptions of him being overvalued, despite his strong defensive numbers. Bobby Witt Jr. is a prominent mention, with impressive stats making a case for him as the best in the position. Comparisons between him and other shortstops like Francisco Lindor, and even newcomers like Elly De La Cruz, highlight the depth and talent at the shortstop position.

Defensive metrics play a significant role in these discussions, especially as teams like the Chicago Cubs emphasize defense in their strategies. Swanson’s defensive prowess is juxtaposed against the offensive capabilities of players like Trey Turner, who, while recognized for hitting, struggles defensively. The conversation shifts towards how much value teams place on a player's hitting versus their defensive skills, showing the complexity of shortstop evaluations in today’s game.