Baseball America’s Ben Badler and Carlos Collazo offer scout-level insight into all levels of baseball—everything from the amateur MLB Draft, international scouting, minor league prospects to the bigs. New episodes drop every week.

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2022/1/7/20/63e722b0-ce67-48b6-95b0-95381213eb52_episode_21.mp3

The podcast returns! After a bit of a hibernation, Ben explains to you all why Future Projection has been dormant for much of the winter—don’t blame Carlos, he’s not at fault! The two talk about the Wander Franco contract extension with the Rays and whether or not we like aggressive, team-friendly deals like this. Ben makes the case that we shouldn’t always view a contract as team or player friendly, but perhaps agent friendly. After that, the two discuss the immense talent and depth of the catching ranks in baseball at the moment and dive into a few catchers we like who might begin the year on the outside of our top 100 looking in. Following that, we talk about a few players we found ourselves liking more and more throughout the Prospect Handbook editing process and touch on a few pitchers who have trended in the right direction with velocity.  Time Stamps<ul><li>Opening banter (0:00:01)</li><li>Ben’s big announcement (0:01:16)</li><li>International big board update (0:06:00)</li><li>The Wander Franco extension (0:10:12)</li><li>Other notable pre-lockout moves and signings (0:23:24)</li><li>A tidal wave of catching talent (0:26:21)</li><li>Players who grew on us throughout the Prospect Handbook process (0:42:41)</li><li>A conversation about velocity gains with pitchers, including Aaron Ashby and Ricky Tiedemann (0:53:49)</li></ul> Links<ul><li><a href="https://www.baseballamerica.com/rankings/2021-22-mlb-international-prospects-big-board/" rel="nofollow">Ben’s updated international big board</a></li><li><a href="https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories/a-golden-era-2022-could-be-historic-year-for-top-mlb-catching-prospects/" rel="nofollow">Matt’s story on the Golden Era of Catching Prospects</a></li></ul> <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/id1555299031" rel="nofollow">Future Projection on Apple</a> (please rate and review the show!)Follow us on Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/FutureProPod" rel="nofollow">@FutureProPod</a>Ben&#39;s Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/BenBadler" rel="nofollow">@BenBadler</a>Carlos&#39;s Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/CarlosACollazo" rel="nofollow">@CarlosACollazo</a><a href="https://www.baseballamerica.com/" rel="nofollow">Baseball America Website</a> Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 21: A Golden Era For Catchers & Prospects We Like More Post-Handbook

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/10/20/21/7877e02c-bbbe-4c01-99ba-3474489c426a_episode_20.mp3

Ben and Carlos banter about MLB’s announcement requiring teams to provide housing for “certain” minor league players, once again fight over the pronunciation of “OPS” and also talk about the closely contested games the 2021 postseason has provided. After that, the two discuss Wander Franco’s impressive rookie campaign and whether or not they would vote for him as the Rookie of the Year. That turns into a discussion of the best pure hitters Ben has covered, which leads to a conversation about Juan Soto—and how remarkable he is at just 22 years old. After that, the two discuss the Rays and why people online seem to get worked up about them so much, before turning their eyes towards the Arizona Fall League and potential breakout players there. This leads to a Sign One, Trade One, Cut One debate with Red Sox prospects Triston Casas, Marcelo Mayer and Nick Yorke. After that, the two discuss standout Jupiter players, including shortstops Mikey Romero and Nicolas Perez and lefthander Levi Huesman. Ben wonders if a potential Druw Jones shortstop experiment would be worthwhile, and the two then tackle a few listener questions—including who the best lefthander in the 2022 class is—before signing off.Time Stamps<ul><li>Opening Banter (0:00:01)</li><li>MLB requiring teams to provide MiLB Housing (0:02:17)</li><li>More nonsense about stat abbreviations (0:13:57)</li><li>MLB Playoffs (0:18:01)</li><li>Wander Franco&#39;s Impressive 2021 Campaign (0:24:09)</li><li>Is Juan Soto the best hitter on the planet? (0:39:36)</li><li>Why people seem so enraged by the Rays (0:47:50)</li><li>Arizona Fall League (0:59:02)</li><li>Sign One, Trade One, Cut One — Triston Casas, Marcelo Mayer, Nick Yorke (1:13:10)</li><li>Standout players from Jupiter (1:26:14)</li><li>Ben&#39;s Druw Jones SS idea (1:35:25)</li><li>Mailbag! (1:43:38)</li></ul> Links<ul><li><a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/32419545/major-league-baseball-require-teams-provide-housing-minor-league-players-starting-2022-sources-say" rel="nofollow">Jeff Passan&#39;s MiLB Housing story</a></li><li><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.baseballamerica.com%2Fstories%2Fmlb-will-require-teams-to-cover-housing-costs-for-minor-leaguers-in-2022%2F&sa=D&source=docs&usg=AOvVaw1Xc7guQN5EB2mPLUTGTpVr&ust=1634768803001000" rel="nofollow">JJ&#39;s MiLB housing story</a></li><li><a href="https://twitter.com/Kevin_Goldstein/status/1450558684124360708" rel="nofollow">Kevin Goldstein&#39;s OPS tweet</a></li><li><a href="https://twitter.com/baseball_ref/status/1450660598639964160?s=20" rel="nofollow">Jose Altuve&#39;s 21 postseason home run record</a></li><li><a href="https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/leader.cgi?id=dea17904&type=bat" rel="nofollow">Arizona Fall League Leaderboard</a></li><li><a href="https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories/10-prospects-who-could-regain-or-reinforce-their-stock-at-the-2021-arizona-fall-league/" rel="nofollow">Josh&#39;s story on 10 AFL players who could regain their stock</a></li><li><a href="https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories/five-prospects-who-could-pop-in-the-arizona-fall-league/" rel="nofollow">Josh&#39;s story on 5 AFL players who could pop</a></li><li><a href="https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories/36-standout-high-school-mlb-draft-prospects-to-know-from-jupiter-2021/" rel="nofollow">Carlos&#39;s story on 36 Jupiter standouts</a></li><li><a href="https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories/9-standout-underclass-mlb-draft-prospects-from-jupiter/" rel="nofollow">Carlos&#39;s story on 9 underclass Jupiter standouts</a></li></ul> <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/id1555299031" rel="nofollow">Future Projection on Apple</a> (please rate and review the show!)Follow us on Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/FutureProPod" rel="nofollow">@FutureProPod</a>Ben&#39;s Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/BenBadler" rel="nofollow">@BenBadler</a>Carlos&#39;s Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/CarlosACollazo" rel="nofollow">@CarlosACollazo</a><a href="https://www.baseballamerica.com/" rel="nofollow">Baseball America Website</a> Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 20: The Wonderful Wander Franco, Players To Watch In The AFL & LHP Depth In The 2022 Draft Class

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/10/5/2/99d81c53-6010-4c50-b0cd-a0f55107ecaa_episode_19.mp3

Ben and Carlos talk about Bobby Witt Jr. being named the BA Minor League Player of the Year and how there seem to be no obvious flaws in his game. After that, the two discuss the 2022 draft order being set (at least for the time being) and talk a little bit about how Baltimore’s draft strategy in the past could line up with a 2022 draft class that looks strong on college bats, but lacks a clear 1-1 player at the moment. After that, the two talk about whether or not they like the current draft system and what changes might be better, and wonder if the new CBA will bring changes to the draft next year and in the future. Then the two talk about the upcoming Perfect Game WWBA World Championship—better known as Jupiter—which is one of the biggest amateur events of the year. Finally, the two discuss whether or not they like the current MLB playoff structure and the pros and cons that come with it. Time Stamps<ul><li>Opening banter (0:00:01)</li><li>Bobby Witt Jr. MiLB Player of the Year (0:01:50)</li><li>The 2022 draft order (0:09:57)</li><li>D-backs track record of top 3 picks (0:14:28)</li><li>Thoughts on the current draft structure (0:17:51)</li><li>Thoughts on how the draft will change in the CBA (0:28:33)</li><li>Jupiter! (0:30:48)</li><li>The MLB Playoff Structure (01:07:39)</li></ul> Links:<ul><li><a href="https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories/bobby-witt-jr-2021-minor-league-player-of-the-year/" rel="nofollow">Link to Carlos’s Bobby Witt Jr. Minor League Player of the Year Story</a></li><li><a href="https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories/2022-mlb-draft-order-tiebreaker-likely-gives-orioles-the-no-1-pick/" rel="nofollow">Link to the Preliminary 2022 MLB Draft Order</a></li><li><a href="https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories/the-tank-tax-could-push-teams-to-try-harder/" rel="nofollow">Link to JJ&#39;s Tank Tax Story</a></li><li><a href="https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories/2021-instructional-league-rosters-for-every-mlb-team/" rel="nofollow">Link to Instructional League rosters for every team</a></li><li><a href="https://www.perfectgame.org/events/TournamentTeams.aspx?event=31477" rel="nofollow">Link to the field of teams at Jupiter</a></li></ul> <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/id1555299031" rel="nofollow">Future Projection Pod On Apple</a> (Please rate and review the show!)Follow us on Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/FutureProPod" rel="nofollow">@FutureProPod</a>Ben&#39;s Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/BenBadler" rel="nofollow">@BenBadler</a>Carlos&#39;s Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/CarlosACollazo" rel="nofollow">@CarlosACollazo</a><a href="https://www.baseballamerica.com/" rel="nofollow">Baseball America Website</a> Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 19: The 2022 Draft Order, Jupiter Preview & Thoughts On The MLB Playoff Structure

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/9/21/3/05dc67b5-315b-4037-8264-f6fc556358e7_episode_18.mp3

Ben and Carlos talk about the college pitching heavy Royals 2018 draft class and how that group recently accomplished an impressive feat. The two then discuss the #FairBall protest over the weekend and talk a bit about the depressing state of minor league pay and whether or not pitch clocks are effective without being disruptive to the game. After that, the two talk about a recent story about Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman and his play at all costs mentality and how they might create issues before diving into an extended mailbag segment with plenty of listener questions.Time Stamps:-Opening banter (0:00:03)-Royals 2018 draft class (0:07:36)-How we pronounce stats like OPS+, wRC+, wOBA, etc. (0:19:50)-#FairBall protest and MiLB pay (0:25:19)-Thoughts on the pitch clock (0:35:43)-Freddie Freeman’s always play mentality (0:42:18)-Mailbag (0:49:49)Links:-<a href="https://twitter.com/jazayerli/status/1438922403103617034" rel="nofollow">Rany Jazayerli’s tweet on the Royals 2018 draft class</a>-<a href="https://theathletic.com/news/phillies-mets-minor-leaguers-protest-pay-by-wearing-fairball-wristbands/naDLXKPrAGED" rel="nofollow">Brittany Ghiroli on the MiLB #FairBall story</a>-<a href="https://theathletic.com/2829518/2021/09/17/can-this-minor-league-pitch-clock-solve-all-of-mlbs-problems/?article_source=search&search_query=jayson+stark" rel="nofollow">Jayson Stark’s pitch clock story</a>-<a href="https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories/even-with-pitch-clocks-milb-games-keep-getting-longer/" rel="nofollow">JJ Cooper’s pitch clock story</a>-<a href="https://sports.yahoo.com/no-days-off-freddie-freeman-pushes-braves-teammates-to-play-every-game-140954730.html" rel="nofollow">Hannah Keyser’s Freddie Freeman story</a>-<a href="https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories/30-mlb-prospects-who-improved-their-stock-in-2021/" rel="nofollow">Josh Norris’s story on 30 prospects who improved their stock in 2021</a> Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 18: The Royals 2018 Draft Haul, Minor League Pay & Pitch Clocks + Extended Mailbag Episode

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/9/14/20/182cdf62-2764-4ab4-8cae-113f973d217e_episode_17.mp3

Ben and Carlos dive into what they like and don’t like about various workouts in showcase environments before getting into some of the top players to know in the 2023 class. Outfielders like Max Clark and Walker Jenkins have impressed Ben for their hitting ability and toolsets, while lefthander Thomas White has long been a favorite and remains the top pitching prospect in the group. After that, the two discuss shortstop defense and what leads teams to projecting everyday shortstops, while also discussing the differences in training that players from Latin American receive vs. domestic infielders. Next, the two talk about how age vs. level matters for prospect evaluation and how older players shouldn’t always be overlooked. Finally, the two take listener questions, including: how we view 2022 infielder Cam Collier; how Tyler Soderstrom compares to Zac Veen and Robert Hassell from the 2020 class; which prospects who just missed the updated top 100 we are high on; and more. Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 17: Showcase Pros/Cons, Projecting Who Sticks At Shortstop & Whether Age vs. Level Matters

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/9/8/20/c9822319-fe4b-4e0e-b398-0f17fa082612_episode_16.mp3

Ben and Carlos are joined by Josh for a podcast primarily centered on the minor leagues and our upcoming top 100 update. The trio talks about the process of updating the list before digging into plenty of player specific conversations. Josh explains why he—like Carlos—is infatuated with Bobby Witt Jr., the trio talks about the demographic strengths of the top 100 this year and digs into a few players who are polarizing among the BA staff or especially difficult to place on a list, including Padres lefthander MacKenzie Gore, Twins infielder/outfielder Austin Martin and Yankees outfielder Jasson Dominguez. After that, the group discusses some of the more impressive minor league seasons this year—say hello to Anthony Volpe, Yankees fans—before talking about the gradual shift in how the industry scouts the Triple-A level. After that, the group debates whether or not half grades are useful on the 20-80 scouting scale and whether or not they find player comps valuable or misleading. Finally, we take listener questions, including whether or not we&#39;re concerned about Giants shortstop Marco Luciano&#39;s performance this season and what an ETA could be for Athletics catcher Tyler Soderstrom, among others. Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 16: Behind The Scenes Of The Top 100, Polarizing Prospects, The 20-80 Scale & Player Comps

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/9/1/21/5bce1074-f22e-4999-ab5e-fe07be0ccde5_episode_15.mp3

After spending a few weeks traveling around the country watching players in the 2022, 2023 and 2024 draft classes, Ben and Carlos are back on the mic! The two have an overdue conversation about the 2021 draft results, talk through some of their favorite picks (Khalil Watson, Brady House, Marcelo Mayer) and classes before talking about the Kumar Rocker/Mets situation. After Ben proposes some tweaks to the draft process, the two talk about why the draft is difficult or impossible to evaluate and analyze in the immediate aftermath, which leads to a conversation about the Red Sox’ 2020 selection of Nick Yorke—who is on a tear in pro ball. After that, the two talk about the impressive high school pitching in the 2022 draft class, discuss the merits of Termarr Johnson and Elijah Green as the top players in the class and then pivot to the minor leagues. Which player would they take among a top three of Adley Rutschman, Julio Rodriguez and Bobby Witt Jr.? They don’t agree on which, though it’s close. That leads to a conversation about the top farm systems in the game and which orgs you should keep an eye on to take a big step forward, before the two get into listener questions. Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 15: Why Analyzing The Draft Is Difficult, Early Thoughts On The 2022 Class & Farm System Rankings

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/7/8/19/018be1d1-21de-4039-96a1-a6d2d1289fae_episode_14.mp3

Ben and Carlos are joined by Alexis Brudnicki to talk all things 2021 draft with just a few days to go before the Pirates are on the clock. If you haven&#39;t yet gotten started prepping for this year&#39;s draft, this is the show for you. After giving an overview of our thoughts on this year&#39;s class as a whole and the draft process in a unique year, all three give their 20-80 grades on each demographic of the class. The trio talk about players at the top of the draft in all four main categories—college pitching, college hitting, high school pitching, high school hitting—and then pivot to what the first round might be shaping up like. After that, the three talk about which player they would take No. 1 in a class that doesn&#39;t have a clear top prospect and discuss the ETAs of the top college players in the class, RHPs Jack Leiter and Kumar Rocker. Then the group moves further down the draft board to talk through a few sleepers, talk about team tendencies and draft strategy and then dive into a loaded listener mailbag. Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 14: A 2021 Draft Preview & Roundtable

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/6/30/2/356194a3-814b-4637-a70f-2cc6695f2b40_episode_13.mp3

Ben and Carlos return from a brief hiatus to talk about all sorts of prospect action. First, the two discuss some of the players they&#39;re most excited to see on the recently announced Futures Game rosters, including Yankees outfielder Jasson Dominguez, Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman and Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez—among others. After that, Ben and Carlos break down the inaugural MLB draft combine, highlight a few players who stood out and talk through what the event is now and what it should be in the future. Finally, they discuss prospects with helium: from potential first-round draft picks like Indiana high school shortstop Colson Montgomery and East Carolina second baseman Connor Norby, to players on the pro side, like Indians infielder Angel Martinez and Marlins righthander Eury Perez. Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 13: A Futures Game Preview & Draft Combine Review + Helium Prospects

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/5/28/2/c1f12ce2-ed3b-40ec-b103-373f2938a395_episode_12.mp3

Ben and Carlos talk about the increased stolen base totals in the lower levels of the minors, and talk about whether or not rule changes incentivizing the steal would be good for the game. After that the two talk about &#34;prospect hype&#34; and how the notoriety of players can affect the way we think about them—whether we realize it or not. Among those prospects with no shortage of hype, they explain what&#39;s going on right now with Jasson Dominguez and discuss the draft stock of Jack Leiter and Kumar Rocker. This episode is full of interesting listener questions, including whether or not Todd Helton belongs in the Hall of Fame, what the two think about 2022 high school shortstop Termarr Johnson, how Pirates righthander Roansy Contreras has excited us so far this season, how throwing ability is evaluated and more. Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 12: A Resurgence of Stolen Bases & The Impact of Prospect Hype

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/5/20/3/678ae665-69fc-4ea4-a2da-c23e20cf4f0e_episode_11.mp3

For the first time since the Future Projection Podcast has been around, Ben and Carlos are able to talk about actual minor league baseball. The two talk about a number of prospects who have gotten off to strong starts this season, including Wander Franco, Julio Rodriguez, Vidal Brujan, CJ Abrams, Alek Thomas and many others. Prior to that conversation, the two discuss why Oklahoma high school righthander Jackson Jobe is the top prep pitcher in the class and see how he stacks up with recent top-of-the-class high school righthanders like Mick Abel and Quinn Priester. The two wrap up the podcast in typical fashion, by taking listener questions including one about Mariners prospect George Kirby&#39;s newfound velocity—and how that changes his profile moving forward. Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 11: Minor League Prospects Off To Hot Starts & Comparing Top High School Righthanders

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/5/4/1/7171ce90-a673-44b5-a918-057c269a0559_episode_10.mp3

Ben and Carlos are joined by Josh and Kyle for a roundtable podcast in celebration of Minor League Opening Day. It&#39;s been quite a while since we&#39;ve had minor league baseball in any capacity, but the group talks about everything they are excited for with the season finally starting. Before that conversation gets rolling, the group talks about a few catchers on our updated BA Draft 400 list, one trending up and another trending in the opposite direction. That leads to a conversation about scouting backstops, and how the profile for catchers will change when robot umps are a fixture in the big leagues. Who stands to benefit? Who will lose value? After that the group marvels about the performance of Jacob deGrom, they discuss his Hall of Fame candidacy and talk about the merits of athleticism and two-way backgrounds for pitcher success. After that, we get into the meat of the podcast and talk through players and teams we are looking forward to watching in the minors, how the new structure will change how we evaluate players and how teams handle their development. As always, we wrap up with listener questions. Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 10: At Long Last... Minor League Opening Day

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/4/23/3/411dbff3-cfce-4c64-a5e6-c2a82ea4fece_episode_9.mp3

Ben and Carlos spend a lot of time talking about the value of scouting players through video. Since the Covid season, more and more teams are using video and video tools to amplify their draft coverage, which leads to plenty of benefits, but perhaps some downsides as well. The two talk about how that has changed the job for scouts and then talk about what exactly makes a pop-up player and how some players can go under-the-radar. After that, the two talk about a few players who aren’t ranked in the first round range at the moment, but wouldn’t surprise us if they did end up going in the first round. As always, they wrap things up by answering listener questions, touching on a 6-foot-8 lefthander from the Northeast, how teams are handling international free agency and a few Rangers prospects with helium heading into the minor league season.  Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 9: The Pros & Cons Of Video Scouting, What Makes A Pop-Up Player & First Round Sleeper Candidates

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/4/15/18/d3276ee7-ba43-4140-9714-d25d7cf90f2a_episode_8.mp3

Ronald Acuña Jr. makes a fool of the podcast by sitting at the top of the WAR leaderboard just weeks after Ben, Carlos and Josh chose to cut him instead of Juan Soto or Fernando Tatis Jr. After talking about Acuña’s torrid start to the season and improved plate discipline, Ben and Carlos discuss the play of both Byron Buxton and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. The two then talk about some of the most toolsy and athletic players in the minor leagues and the 2021 draft class, before having a similar conversation about toolsy pitchers. The two then talk about some of the better pitchers in the league—Corbin Burnes, Tyler Glasnow, Aroldis Chapman—and various pitch-mix changes they have implemented before taking listener questions. Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 8: Early-Season Exploits Of Ronald Acuña Jr., Byron Buxton and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/4/8/20/68787fd7-72c2-45da-b3aa-eb6128184d11_episode_7.mp3

Ben and Carlos marvel at Shohei Ohtani’s early-season exploits on the mound and as a hitter, which leads to a conversation about the difficulties of being a two-way player at the pro level and the prospects who could be next in line to give it a try. The two then spend a lot of time talking about Louisiana State righthander Jaden Hill, who recently tore his UCL and who now faces an uncertain draft outlook given the injury and his limited college resume. The two talk about the decision to make the draft 20 rounds in 2021 and talk about what an ideal number of rounds is—or perhaps more importantly, what an ideal draft format would be. They wrap things up by taking listener questions, including: how the Braves have used their international scouting resources in the wake of sanctions; the differences between scouting high school and college hitters; northeast prospects to keep an eye on; and whether or not Mariners prospect Noelvi Marte can become a top 25 prospect in baseball. Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 7: The Magnificence of Shohei Ohtani, Two-Way Prospects in the Pipeline & Draft Ramifications for Jaden Hill

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/3/31/21/7f977fef-60a9-49cf-a93f-dbea4edd5835_episode_6.mp3

Ben and Carlos are joined by JJ Cooper for the sixth episode of the Future Projection Podcast. The three talk about what they are excited about for Opening Day before talking about New Jersey high school righthander Chase Petty touching 102 mph. Is throwing that hard that young awesome or scary? After that, the three talk about various sightlines for watching games, and how you can better scout players from various vantage points. Ben talks about a physical college hitter he was impressed with recently and the three collectively talk about their desire for teams to hire more scouts. Finally, the three make picks for the top 10 teams in the 2021 draft if they were deciding for clubs today, before tackling some listener questions. Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 6: 102 MPH High School Pitchers, Where To Sit When Scouting & How We Would Pick 1-10 In The 2021 Draft

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/3/24/19/893cbc27-63e7-43c2-b652-0d12cd55ef35_episode_5.mp3

On the fifth episode of the Future Projection Podcast, Ben and Carlos talk about the recently updated BA draft rankings and discuss how volatile this year’s draft class is. The two talk about the lack of a consensus No. 1 player in the class at this point and play “Sign One, Trade One, Cut One” with Vanderbilt righthanders Kumar Rocker and Jack Leiter, and Dallas Jesuit High shortstop Jordan Lawlar. After talking about Boston College outfielder Sal Frelick, the two talk about the pros and cons of tall hitters vs. shorter hitters and talk through some of the notable recent “undersized” bats in the game. After that the two talk about MLB and USA Baseball’s new pre-draft events and how those and a combine could shake up the evaluation of the class before taking listen questions—including one listener who asks what pitching prospects we could be talking about like MacKenzie Gore in a few years. Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 5: Updated Draft Rankings, Short vs. Tall Hitters & Pitchers We Could Soon Be Talking About Like MacKenzie Gore

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/3/17/3/e352b453-5fb6-4d22-8dcd-4b4e9ef0ca85_episode_4.mp3

Ben and Carlos are joined by their first-ever guest on the podcast—fellow BA staffer Josh Norris. The three talk about how teams handle contrasting evaluations in scouting, whether that’s an area scout vs. a national crosschecker or an amateur scout vs. a pro scout. After talking about a few players who have had split opinions, the three play “Sign one, Trade one, Cut one” with baseball’s top three stars: Ronald Acuna Jr., Juan Soto and Fernando Tatis Jr. After that, breakout candidates like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. are discussed and the three guess which prospect between Spencer Torkelson and Austin Martin will reach the bigs first. In closing, Ben and Josh offer career and life advice, while Carlos simply tells listeners to learn Spanish. Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 4: When Scouts Disagree and Deciding Between Ronald Acuna Jr., Juan Soto & Fernando Tatis Jr.

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/3/11/3/7360ca55-f0e1-447a-853e-6ca5a64e6e25_future_projection_episode_3.mp3

Ben and Carlos spend most of the episode talking about shortstops—what scouts look for when evaluating the position, as well as some of the top young shortstop talents in the game. The two discuss an exciting 2021 draft class for the position on the high school side (highlighted by Jordan Lawlar and Marcelo Mayer) and then talk about the top shortstops in the 2020 international class. Ben raves about some of the best defenders he’s ever seen at the position before the two play a game of “Sign one, trade on, cut one” with three of the top pro shortstop prospects in the game. As is becoming customary, they round things out by taking a few listener questions. Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 3: Bobby Witt Jr., 484 Foot Homers & The Top Shortstop Prospects In Baseball

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/3/3/5/f272f3ce-7c2f-4224-be27-472e2347da66_episode_2.mp3

Ben and Carlos spend some time talking about Ben&#39;s recently released International Big Board for the 2021-22 international class, before diving into why an international draft is likely on the horizon. Ben explains what an international draft could look like and why more sides are open to it now than they might have been previously. The two talk about why pick trading could be a good addition to an international draft and the domestic draft. After that Carlos dives into 2021 draft standouts like Boston College OF Sal Frelick, Miami (Ohio) RHP Sam Bachman and North Carolina OF Justice Thompson. The two then touch on a few 2020 draftees who could already be improving their stock (including Red Sox 2B Nick Yorke and Rangers OF Evan Carter), talk hitting and catching evaluation and then take a few listener questions. Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 2: What An International Draft Might Look Like + 2021 Draft Risers

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/2/24/5/e5a0b252-af3b-4f3a-ade6-fb27fd4a6eea_future_projection__episode_1.mp3

Baseball is back! On their debut episode, Ben Badler and Carlos Collazo talk about the challenges of scouting this spring, scouting philosophy when it comes to balancing new information with past history and the differences between amateur and pro looks in player evaluation. The two then express their excitement for 2022 high school draft prospect Elijah Green and go in-depth on Yankees prospect Jasson Dominguez. Carlos highlights a number of college baseball standouts from college opening weekend, including Kumar Rocker and Jack Leiter. The two briefly debate who the best MLB team of the 2010s was, before discussing potential teams of the 2020s (get ready, Blue Jays fans). The Fernando Tatis extension is mentioned, along with general Padres discussion, before Ben rounds things out with his thoughts on what makes Mariners prospect Julio Rodriguez special on and off the field. Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations</a>

Episode 1: Elijah Green, Jasson Dominguez & Draft Standouts From College Baseball's Opening Weekend