Episode 29 (8/13/22): MLB News, Fernando Tatis’ Suspension, Dairy Queen Curse, Chris Sale Fractures Wrist, MLB Power Rankings, World Baseball Classic Commitments

Joey begins the episode by talking about Fernando Tatis Jr.’s 80-game suspension for use of clostebol and violating the MLB’s performance-enhancing drug (PEDs) restrictions. Not only will Tatis miss the remainder of the season and the 2022 playoffs, but he will also miss the first 42 games of the 2023 season as well. Next, Joey questions whether or not the Dairy Queen Curse, which was first mentioned by Bob Nightengale, is real. Bryce Harper and Tim Anderson, who were featured in the same Dairy Queen (DQ) commercial, have both been plagued by injuries. In addition to that, the other MLB and DQ commercial features Cody Bellinger and Tatis, and neither have had good seasons with Bellinger hitting .210 and Tatis missing the entire 2022 season due to PEDs. After that, Joey discusses the loss of Chris Sale for the remainder of the 2022 season due to a bicycle accident. He also mentions the retirement of NESN broadcasting icon and entertaining personality Dennis Eckersley, and highlights each of his best catchphrases. Following that, he gives his MLB Power Rankings, headlined by the Los Angeles Dodgers who have won 26 of their last 30 games played. Joey ranks his top 10 teams and breaks down their records over the last 10, 20 and 30 games played. He also points out four different clubs that finished just outside of the top 10. One surprise club in his power rankings were the Baltimore Orioles, who have a 21-9 record in the last 30 games which is good enough for second best in the Majors. Joey updates viewers on World Baseball Classic commitments for the USA, which included Bryce Harper, the 2021 National League MVP and two-time MVP. He also points out Dylan Cease’s ridiculous 14-game stretch, allowing 1 earned run or less in each of those starts.