Episode Details

Why do modern MLB teams bat power hitters like Kyle Schwarber and Aaron Judge first instead of the traditional speedsters of the past? CBS Sports’ Matt Snyder joins the show to reveal the hidden history and analytics behind baseball's most important lineup change. Key Takeaways: - The Shift: How the role of the leadoff man evolved from "get on and steal" to "hit nukes immediately." - Smoltz vs. Analytics: Matt shares a fiery story about Hall of Famer John Smoltz’s disdain for power hitters in the #1 spot. - Cardinals History: Where legends like Lou Brock, Vince Coleman, and Matt Carpenter fit into the all-time rankings. - Hall of Fame Debate: The case for Kenny Lofton and why the voters got it wrong. - Historical Oddities: Crazy stats from the Negro Leagues and the story of the one-armed leadoff hitter.Buy the Book:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G5JY3NVG?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title ⭐️ Become an STL Sports Central Insider: https://stlsportscentral.com/2025/11/15/stl-sports-central-insiders 👑 Presented by DraftKings. The Crown is Yours.

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