DVR is joined by Jason Collette to discuss the evolution of pre-debut contracts and early takeaways -- including the highly-anticipated return Shane McClanahan -- and the surprising lack of stolen bases from the Rays in their first two series of the season. They also take an early look at waiver-wire targets, highlighting several starting pitchers of interest, a few relievers to consider from bullpens in turmoil, and the fast start for Jordan Walker.

Rundown

1:55 Commissioner’s Corner: Move Weekly Pickups to Thursday Night!

8:37 Context is Key: James Wood Reveals 2025 Injuries

11:34 Checking In on the Rays: Observations Through Two Series

18:59 He’s Back! The Return of Shane McClanahan

23:59 Efficiency FTW: Drew Rasmussen Has a New Changeup

28:15 Early-Season Matchups: What Matters When Considering Pitchers?

34:24 Another Bat Speed Riser: Interest Level in Luisangel Acuña

37:29 Weekend Waiver Preview: Starting Pitchers We’re Considering

41:55 The Roster Bubble Starting Pitchers (40-60% Rostered)

48:23 Digging Deeper (20-40% Rostered)

53:26 Looking for Saves: Assessing Relievers in Flux

56:45 Cautious with Hitting Surprises? Buying Jordan Walker’s Adjustments?

Follow DVR on Bluesky: @DVR.bsky.social

Follow Eno on Bluesky: @enosarris.bsky.social

Follow Jason on Bluesky: @jasoncollette.bsky.social.

e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com

Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/FyBa9f3wFe

Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels

Host: Derek VanRiper

With Guest Co-Host: Jason Collette

Editor: Jason Potere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

First-Week Takeaways & Weekend Waiver Wire Preview

Rates & Barrels: A show about Baseball