PODCAST · sports
Big Apple Battle: A New York Baseball Podcast
by Alec Schwartz and Ed Pearsall
Each week, two passionate hosts- a loyal Mets fan & devoted Yankees fan- debate & discuss all things NY baseball. From in depth game analysis to heated rivalry banter, we got you covered on all aspects of the game. We believe that the passion of New York Baseball deserves a platform where both Mets and Yankees fans can come together. It’s about more than just the game- it’s about the culture, history, and loyalty that comes with being a fan in one of the greatest baseball cities in the world. Let’s play ball!Email us with topics, comments, or questions: [email protected]
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Episode 32: “The Clock Is Ticking”
The season is moving fast, and both New York teams are approaching a critical stretch.In Episode 32, Alec and Ed check in on where the Yankees and Mets currently stand as the summer heats up. The Yankees continue to battle through inconsistencies while trying to prove they belong among the American League's elite. What's holding them back, and what needs to improve before the second half?Then the conversation shifts to Queens, where the Mets are still searching for answers. The offense remains frustratingly inconsistent, injuries continue to play a role, and the margin for error is shrinking. Are the Mets still positioned to make a run, or are bigger questions starting to emerge?Plus, with the trade deadline rapidly approaching, Alec and Ed look ahead at what each team needs to show over the next few weeks and what types of moves could help push them toward October.The standings matter.The deadline is coming.And the next few weeks could define the season.
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Episode 31: “Tested in the Bronx, Broken in Queens?"
The Yankees and Mets are both dealing with rough stretches right now, but the feeling around each team couldn’t be more different.In Episode 31, Alec and Ed break down the recent Yankees slide and why, despite the injuries and tougher stretch of games, it still feels like a normal part of a long baseball season for a legitimate contender. What concerns are actually real, and what’s just baseball over 162?Then we head to Queens, where the Mets are starting to build an identity nobody wants attached to their team. The offense looks lifeless, the injuries keep piling up, and the overall product on the field has turned into ugly baseball. Is this just a skid… or a deeper issue with how this roster is built?Two struggling teams.Two completely different vibes.
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Episode 30: “Panic in Queens, Party in the Bronx”
The vibes in New York couldn’t be more different right now.In Episode 30, Alec and Ed dive straight into the chaos in Queens as the Mets continue their brutal stretch. Alec goes off in a full rant—what’s actually broken, who deserves the blame, and how bad this can realistically get if nothing changes.Then we flip to the other side of town. The Yankees are rolling in the Bronx, and we break down what’s clicking—from lineup production to pitching stability—and whether this start feels sustainable.Two teams, two completely different stories. Same city, opposite energy.
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Episode 29: “8 Games In: Real or Fugazi?”
Eight games in, and the takes are already flying. But what’s actually real?In Episode 29, Alec and Ed check in on the Mets and Yankees after the first stretch of the season. We break down the early vibe vs. the record, biggest surprises, and what we’re buying (or not) so far.Then we sort through the noise. Which storylines feel legit, and which ones are getting overhyped? Plus, one “is this a thing?” take each and a quick look at early manager decisions.To close it out, we adjust the outlook on updated MVP and Cy Young picks, and one take we’re ready to double down on.Small sample size, big reactions.
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Episode 28: “Opening Day Is HERE”
Opening Day is here, and it’s time to call your shot.In Episode 28, Alec and Ed kick things off with a gut check on both the Mets and Yankees as final rosters lock in. What surprised us? What do we love? What already has us a little uneasy? From there, it’s straight into Opening Day itself—matchups to watch, early storylines, and yes… a quick rant on the streaming situation shaking up how fans actually watch the game.Then it’s prediction time.Each side brings what they’re most excited about heading into the season, their biggest concern, and one bold prediction that could define how 2026 plays out. The takes are on record now—no hiding from them later.To close it out, we zoom out and look at the full season. Records, MVPs, Cy Young picks, and the expectations that will ultimately define success or failure in New York this year.Opening Day energy, real predictions, and the start of another chapter in the Big Apple baseball rivalry. Episode 28 sets the tone.
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Episode 27: “Two Weeks Out”
Opening Day is around the corner, and the picture is starting to come into focus. In Episode 27, Alec and Ed take a wide-angle look at what’s happening in Mets and Yankees camp with just two weeks to go. Which storylines actually matter? Who’s making real noise this spring, and which early headlines might be getting overblown?From roster battles to rotation questions to the general pulse around both clubs, it’s a classic late-spring temperature check as the season starts to feel real.Then the conversation shifts to the global stage. With USA and the Dominican Republic set to clash in the World Baseball Classic semifinals, the guys preview one of the sport’s most electric matchups. Star power, national pride, and the kind of roster depth that makes this tournament special.Spring storylines, international baseball energy, and Opening Day right around the corner. Episode 27 keeps the countdown rolling.
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Episode 26: “Strike Zone Shift”
The ABS system is coming, and it could quietly change baseball as we know it. In Episode 26, Alec and Ed break down how the challenge system may impact framing, pitcher strategy, and big late-game moments. Is this competitive fairness… or the beginning of a very different feel to the sport?From there, it’s classic Spring pulse check. Who’s legitimately turning heads? Whose stuff looks different (for better or worse)? And which roster battles actually matter as Opening Day gets closer?Technology, tension, and early-camp truth serum. Episode 26 keeps it sharp and forward-looking.
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Episode 25: "“April Is Coming”
Here comes the annual reset button for New York baseball. In Episode 25, Alec and Ed kick off the 2026 season by separating real takeaways from classic overreactions after just a handful of Spring Training games. It’s the ultimate early reality check — what actually matters, what absolutely doesn’t, and which subtle roster decisions might tell us more than the box score ever will.The conversation then shifts to Opening Day projections, breaking down rotation confidence levels, early bullpen pecking orders, and the lineup construction questions that could define April. Who feels stable? Who feels like they’re still experimenting? And which early storyline deserves real attention before the season ramps up?The episode closes with a nod to Spring’s Subway Series energy — favorite rivalry moments, underrated personal memories, and the kind of nostalgia that reminds everyone why this city hits different when both teams are playing meaningful baseball. Fresh starts, familiar pressure, and a clean slate in the Bronx and Queens. Episode 25 sets the tone for the season ahead.
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Episode 24: “Reloaded or Running It Back? Mets & Yankees Offseason Audit”
With spring training almost underway, Alec and Ed are officially back in baseball mode.Episode 24 delivers a full offseason breakdown for both the Mets and Yankees — every key addition and what it actually means heading into 2026. No recycled narratives, no panic takes — just honest evaluation of how these rosters stack up right now.The Mets conversation focuses on whether this retooled group can turn potential into consistency, while the Yankees’ side centers on did they meaningfully improve or are they once again banking on what they already have?The episode also zooms out to identify the most concerning division rivals and which teams quietly strengthened their position over the winter.Spring training has begun. Expectations are forming. Baseball is back — almost.
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Episode 23: “New Year, Same Subway – 2026 Resolutions for the Mets & Yankees”
As 2025 comes to a close, Alec and Ed hit pause on the chaos and look ahead — breaking down New York baseball’s New Year’s resolutions for 2026 based on where the Mets and Yankees actually stand right now. No fantasy rebuilds, no hindsight bias — just honest, roster-driven goal-setting with a little optimism and a lot of perspective.The Mets’ conversation centers on identity, continuity, and turning raw talent into sustained belief, while the Yankees’ focus shifts toward balance, accountability, and getting more out of a roster that’s been knocking on the door. From lineup construction to clubhouse tone, each team gets a resolution rooted in reality — and framed through the lens of growth rather than panic.The episode widens into a holistic look at what “success” really means for both franchises in 2026, touching on pressure, expectations, fan trust, and the fine line between patience and urgency. As always, the rivalry stays alive, the banter stays sharp, and the takes stay honest. A year-end reflection, a forward-looking reset, and a classic Battle for the Big Apple send-off — Episode 23 closes out 2025 the only way we know how.
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Episode 22: “Winter Meetings Whiplash – New York In Trouble?"
The offseason spotlight shifts to the Winter Meetings, and New York baseball is once again at the center of the chaos. In Episode 22, Alec and Ed break down how the Mets and Yankees are approaching the stove — comparing big moves, notable non-moves, and what each front office is actually trying to fix heading into the new season. From roster trust to organizational intent, the Subway Series rivalry finds new life in December.The conversation widens as league-wide dominoes begin to fall, with trades and signings that could quietly reshape the playoff picture — and directly impact both New York teams’ paths forward. Who’s winning the Winter Meetings so far, who’s getting boxed out, and where are the real opportunities hiding? The episode closes with a classic Battle for the Big Apple twist: outrageous ideas that just might work, sneaky moves that could age beautifully, and one pure chaos scenario that could flip a division on its head. Rumors, rivalry, and offseason overreactions — Episode 22 has it all.
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Episode 21: “Bronx Blues: Yankees on the Brink, Mets Fans Savor the Chaos”
The tides have turned in New York baseball, and not in the Yankees’ favor. In Episode 21, the Bronx Bombers find themselves down 2-0 in the ALDS to the Toronto Blue Jays after a grueling Wild Card win over the Red Sox that briefly reignited hope in the Bronx. Ed breaks down what’s gone wrong so far — from missed opportunities to shaky bullpen moments — while Alec, whose Mets are long out of the picture, takes every chance to twist the knife and root for Toronto to finish the job.It’s rivalry energy at its peak, with Alec’s petty glee meeting Ed’s frustrated optimism as we dissect what’s left for the Yankees to fight for — and what it would mean for New York if the city’s October dreams end this early. From dugout decisions to dug-in banter, Episode 21 captures the essence of every Mets fan’s favorite pastime: watching the Yankees sweat.
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Episode 20: “Season’s End: Mets Collapse, Yankees Eye Red Sox”
The regular season is over, and New York baseball fans are feeling every emotion possible. In Episode 20, we dive into the Mets’ official elimination from playoff contention — a crushing finish that left Alec furious and heartbroken after holding out hope until the very end. What was supposed to be a season of promise ends in disappointment, and we break down how it all fell apart.Meanwhile, across town, the Yankees are preparing for a high-stakes Wild Card showdown against their oldest rival, the Boston Red Sox. The Bronx Bombers have momentum and swagger, but the intensity of October baseball is about to be tested in one of the sport’s fiercest matchups.From Alec’s raw reaction to the Mets’ collapse to Ed’s cautious confidence about the Yankees’ chances, we capture the split emotions of New York fans as one chapter slams shut and another one begins.
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Episode 19: “October Pressure: Mets in Trouble, Yankees Surge”
The New York baseball rollercoaster just took a sharp turn. In Episode 19, we dive into the Mets’ brutal collapse, how they’ve fallen out of a playoff spot, and what went wrong in a season that once looked promising. Meanwhile, the Yankees are staying hot and sharpening their edge as October baseball draws near, giving fans plenty of reason to believe.We also welcome our first-ever guest: Alec’s buddy Mikey, a diehard but pessimistic Mets fan, who brings a raw, unfiltered take on what it feels like to watch this team unravel. From bullpen meltdowns to missed opportunities, we break down the heartbreak in Queens, the momentum in the Bronx, and what it all means for New York baseball fans heading into the final push.
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Episode 18: “Stretch Run Stress: Mets Fade, Yankees Fight On”
The final stretch of the season is here, and New York baseball is telling two very different stories. In Episode 18, we break down the Mets’ continued inconsistency, their struggles to put wins together, and why the division race is slipping away. Meanwhile, the Yankees are scrapping to stay alive in the AL East battle, showing just enough fight to keep their hopes alive.We dig into the biggest turning points of the past two weeks, who’s trending up and down, and what both clubs need to lock in before October arrives. Plus, as always, some spirited back-and-forth on which New York team fans should feel better about heading into the home stretch.
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Episode 17: “Post-Deadline Push: Mets & Yankees in the Final Sprint”
After a long hiatus, we’re back behind the mic and catching up on everything we missed in New York baseball. Episode 17 dives into the aftermath of the trade deadline, breaking down where the Mets and Yankees stand, what’s missing, and what absolutely needs to improve in the final sprint of the season.We look at roster gaps, the players who need to step up, and which teams are truly built for the stretch run. Plus, we take our first-ever caller—a Padres fan—who calls out the Mets and sparks some lively banter about where New York baseball really stands.
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Episode 16: “June Gloom – New York Baseball Hits a Wall”
After a red-hot stretch, both the Mets and Yankees have slammed into a brutal cold spell—and Episode 16 dives straight into the wreckage. We break down the ugly stretch where New York baseball went from surging to sputtering.From lifeless bats and shaky bullpens to key injuries and roster shakeups, we dissect what went wrong, who's to blame, and whether this is just a midseason stumble—or something bigger.Plus, we spotlight the biggest under-performers, unexpected call-ups, and whether fans should panic or preach patience.
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Episode 15: “Summer is Here- and New York Baseball is Smoking Hot”
The heat is on in the city—and so are both squads. In Episode 15, Alec and Ed break down a red-hot stretch of New York baseball as the Yankees and Mets keep stacking wins. We open with a full recap of the last week and a half: who's surging, what's fueling the streaks, and whether this level of play feels built to last.Then it's time for a Heat Check—highlighting the biggest hitters, dominant arms, and surprise standouts from both sides of town. We wrap with the return of the Quippy Awards: from the best at-bat to the coldest bat, the wildest stat to the wildest crowd moment—this segment has it all.Two teams. One city. All gas, no breaks.
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Episode 14: “Post-Subway Surge: Mets Bounce Back, Yanks Don’t Blink”
The Subway Series is in the rearview—and now both New York teams are surging. The Mets are catching fire, the Yankees look unstoppable, and Episode 14 breaks down who’s stepping up and what’s actually sustainable. From Alonso’s resurgence to Judge’s MVP rampage, we cover the biggest trends. Plus, we hand out our first-ever NY Baseball Awards: bold, unfiltered, and totally chaotic.
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Episode 13: “Soto Saga & Subway Series Aftermath”
The first Subway Series of 2025 is in the books—and Episode 13 dives straight into the chaos. Alec and Ed unpack the full Juan Soto drama: his cold bat, questionable effort, and the New York crowd that didn’t hold back. Was it fair? Did it finally bring closure for Yankees fans? Then, it’s time to break down the series: who stepped up, who flopped, and what we learned about each squad. Finally, we wrap with a rapid-fire game of Bumpin or Buggin, debating the hottest overreactions from both sides of town.
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Episode 12: "Round One in the City That Never Sleeps: Mets vs. Yankees"
The Subway Series has arrived, and the city is buzzing. In Episode 12, we set the stage with a full preview of Mets vs. Yankees—starting with a check-in on both squads, key storylines, and stars to watch, including Soto’s first taste of the rivalry. Then it’s time to break down the pitching matchups, bullpens, and offensive firepower before locking in our series predictions and bold takes. We close with a look back at the best Subway Series moments of the past decade, from walk-offs to wild brawls. Queens and the Bronx collide—who takes Round One?
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Episode 11: “Subway Series on Deck: Mets & Yanks Stay Hot Ahead of Rivalry Showdown”
Both New York squads keep stacking wins—Episode 11 recaps a strong week with the Mets and Yankees each taking two series from above-.500 opponents. Alec and Ed break down what’s fueling the charge as the Mets ride reliable starting pitching and health, while the Yankees flex their offensive firepower atop the league in runs scored. With the Subway Series on deck, we tee up the rivalry with a heated off-field debate: which ballpark delivers the better fan experience? From food and vibes to views and value, it’s Citi Field vs. Yankee Stadium in our first-ever Ballpark Breakdown.
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Episode 10: “Tight Games & Thin Margins: New York Baseball Gets Tested”
Another week of nail-biters in New York—Episode 10 dives into the razor-thin margins both teams are navigating. Alec breaks down the Mets’ continued offensive surge, a bullpen that's starting to bend, and some missed chances with runners in scoring position. Ed covers the Yankees’ homer-heavy approach, bullpen questions around Devin Williams and Mark Leiter Jr., and a stretch of tight games that’s testing their depth. We look at what’s sustainable, what’s not, and where both clubs go from here.
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Episode 9: “New York Remains the Baseball Capital of the World"
The Mets keep rolling and the Yankees keep battling—Episode 9 breaks down a full week of action. Alec covers the Mets' 7-game stretch against the Phillies and Nationals, highlighting another strong run of pitching and a lineup that’s starting to click. Ed recaps the Yankees' series sets with the Guardians and Blue Jays, where the offense showed flashes but the arms faced some challenges. We break down the trends, the concerns, and who's stepping up for each team.
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Episode 8: “Series Wins & First Place Grins: NY Baseball Thrives on Easter Sunday”
***Disclaimer: We took Edibles...enjoy.***The Mets keep surging while the Yankees hold steady—Episode 8 covers another week of highs, concerns, and what’s next. Alec breaks down the Mets’ four-game sweep of the Cardinals, where elite pitching, a rising Soto, and a boost from the supporting cast have Citi Field buzzing. Ed recaps a Yankees series win that came with shaky arms and injury scares, as the offense continues to carry the load. Plus, we spotlight some ex-Mets and ex-Yankees who are thriving elsewhere—and who might’ve made a difference this year in New York.
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Episode 7: "Trending in Opposite Directions: Mets Maintain as the Yanks Cool Off"
The Mets keep rolling while the Yankees hit a bump in the road—Episode 7 breaks down the latest from both squads. Alec recaps another strong week for the Mets, who handled the Marlins and A’s behind steady pitching and timely hits. Ed breaks down a rough stretch for the Yankees, who dropped both series and are suddenly facing questions on the mound and at the plate. Plus, we reflect on the legacy of Jackie Robinson and how his impact still echoes through the game today.
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Episode 6: "New York Baseball is Alive & Well: Mets Sweep the North, Yanks Stay the Course"
The Mets are suddenly sweeping and the Yankees stay the course—Episode 6 breaks it all down. Alec dives into the Mets' strong homestand capped by a sweep of the Jays, where pitching led the way and the bats showed up just enough. Ed recaps the Yankees’ series win in Pittsburgh and questions whether the pitching cracks are cause for concern. Plus, we revisit our Opening Series predictions—were our early takes on track, or just classic overreactions?
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Episode 5: "Opening Weekend Wrap: Bombers Bash, Mets Crash"
Opening Weekend delivered fireworks. The Yankees came out hot with a sweep and a barrage of homers, while the Mets stumbled with missed chances and cold bats. We break down both series, highlight key performances, preview the week ahead, and dive into Torpedo Batgate—plus our favorite early-season overreactions.
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Episode 4: “Baseball’s Back, Baby – Let the Big Apple Battle Begin”
Opening Day is here, and we’re fired up. We kick things off with a quick preview of Mets and Yankees matchups—starting pitchers, key lineup notes, and any last-minute injury buzz. Then it’s time for season predictions: strengths, weaknesses, win totals, and bold calls for both squads. Plus, league-wide MVP, Cy Young, and World Series picks. We wrap with some spicy hot takes—are they ridiculous or real? Let’s go.
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Episode 3: "So Close You Can Almost Taste It"
Opening Day is almost here, and the pressure’s on. We break down the final roster battles in Mets and Yankees camps—who’s still fighting for a spot, and who’s about to make the cut? Then we look ahead to the early season matchups: who has the tougher start, who’ll come out hotter, and how the first few series could set the tone. Plus, we wrap things up with a fun game—can you guess the Met or Yankee based on a mystery stat line from the last 20 years? Let’s get into it.
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Episode 2: "The Way Too Early Prediction Show" (Pt. 2)
Opening Day is right around the corner, so it's time for some way too early lineup predictions! We go 1-for-1 breaking down the projected Opening Day lineups for the Mets and Yankees, analyzing each team’s biggest strengths and weaknesses heading into the season. Then, it’s bold prediction time—who’s primed for a monster first week, and who can’t afford a slow start?Plus, Opening Day is already here… in Japan? We react to MLB kicking off the season in the Tokyo Dome, revisit the Mets' and Yankees’ past trips to Japan, and spotlight future Japanese stars to watch.
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Episode 2: "Pain, Pain, Go Away" – Spring Training Injury Woes (Pt. 1)
Injuries are piling up in Mets and Yankees camp—is it time to panic? We break down the latest injuries, their severity, and what it means for both teams moving forward. Then, we dive into the ripple effect on roster battles: Who’s a lock, who’s on the bubble, and which prospects could seize the moment? Could these setbacks be a silver lining for young talent? Plus, we spotlight potential Spring Breakout candidates and debate when we’ll see the next wave of stars make their mark. Tune in for all the latest from spring training!
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Episode 1: "Spring Fever: Mets & Yankees in Full Swing"
We break down the biggest offseason moves for the Mets and Yankees, reliving the highs and lows of last season with plenty of cross-town jabs. Then, we dive into the hottest storylines from spring training, from key injuries to emerging stars. Who’s winning the battle for roster spots in Queens and the Bronx? Plus, we react to MLB’s ABS ball-strike system—should robo-umps take over? Tune in and join the debate!
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Each week, two passionate hosts- a loyal Mets fan & devoted Yankees fan- debate & discuss all things NY baseball. From in depth game analysis to heated rivalry banter, we got you covered on all aspects of the game. We believe that the passion of New York Baseball deserves a platform where both Mets and Yankees fans can come together. It’s about more than just the game- it’s about the culture, history, and loyalty that comes with being a fan in one of the greatest baseball cities in the world. Let’s play ball!Email us with topics, comments, or questions: [email protected]
HOSTED BY
Alec Schwartz and Ed Pearsall
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