Episode 99: Scouting & Player Development Lessons To Learn From LCS Teams

Ben and Carlos hop on the show to talk about the four teams standing this postseason and think through the scouting and player development lessons that can be learned from them. The two talk about Cleveland’s ability to identify and develop domestic pitchers which helped lead to one of the best bullpens in the game, how the Dodgers’ investments on and off the field have led to sustained success, examine a strong up-the-middle position player core that the Yankees have developed and then use the Mets as an example of why you need to be patient with international prospects. Other topics include postseason pitching strategy, Austin Wells’ going from catching question mark to defensive standout, the tremendous offense from Mark Vientos, and a listener question about international prospects who Ben expects big things from in 2025. — Time Stamps (2:30) Where are the starters? (6:00) Financials of the final four teams (10:30) The Guardians (25:10) Cleveland’s still-strong farm (27:00) The Dodgers (33:00) LA’s reputation for player development (39:00) The Yankees (42:00) Austin Wells’ defensive transformation—or misevaluation? (53:00) The Mets (54:00) Being patient with international prospects (1:02:20) David Stearns' impact (1:07:30) An international listener question — Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com Ben's Twitter: @BenBadler Carlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazo Baseball America Website Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy