The Beginner's Dugout

S2: EP5: Defensive Shifts

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2455011/fan_mail/new] Why are there three infielders on one side of second base? What exactly is a defensive shift, and why do baseball fans argue about it so much? In this beginner-friendly episode, we break down how defensive shifts work, why teams started using them so heavily, and the surprising ways they changed the game. We’ll also cover famous examples of shifts working perfectly—and moments when they completely backfired. Whether you’re brand new to baseball or just want to understand the strategy behind the weird positioning, this episode has you covered. New to baseball? Start with Beginner’s Dugout — the podcast that makes the game finally make sense.

S2: EP4: What Stats are Important and What to Ignore

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2455011/fan_mail/new] New to baseball and not sure what really matters over a long season?  In this episode, we break down the difference between the noise and the moments worth your attention. Learn which games, stats, and storylines you can safely ignore—and which ones actually shape a team’s season. Perfect for beginners, this episode helps you watch smarter, stress less, and enjoy the rhythm of baseball without getting overwhelmed. New to baseball? Start with Beginner’s Dugout — the podcast that makes the game finally make sense.

S2: EP3: What Makes a Quality At-Bat?

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2455011/fan_mail/new] What Actually Makes a Quality At-Bat? A Beginner’s Guide Most new baseball fans know when a player gets a hit—but what about the at-bats that don’t end with one? In this episode of Beginner’s Dugout, we break down what actually makes a quality at-bat, from working deep counts and fouling off tough pitches to drawing walks and moving runners. Sometimes the most important plate appearances don’t show up in the box score, and once you know what to look for, every game becomes more interesting. We’ll explain how pitchers and hitters battle during each plate appearance and how a single at-bat can quietly change an entire game. By the end of this episode, you’ll start seeing baseball one pitch at a time—and understanding why not all outs are created equal. New to baseball? Start with Beginner’s Dugout — the podcast that makes the game finally make sense.

S2:EP2: Why Pitchers Get Pulled (And When Fans Lose Their Minds)

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2455011/fan_mail/new] Ever notice a pitcher cruising through a game... only to get pulled suddenly while fans lose their minds? If you’re new to baseball, pitching changes can feel completely random — but there’s actually a method to the madness. In this episode of Beginner’s Dugout, we explain why managers make pitching changes, what warning signs they’re watching for, and how bullpen strategy really works — all without the confusing jargon.  After listening, you’ll be able to spot the moment a pitcher is in trouble and understand exactly why the manager is heading to the mound.

S2: EP1: How to Watch Baseball in 2026 (And the New Rules Explained)

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2455011/fan_mail/new] New to baseball and not sure how to actually watch your team in 2026? Between streaming blackouts, subscription options, and the latest rule changes, it can feel way more complicated than it should be. In this episode of Beginner’s Dugout, we break down the simplest ways to watch or listen to your favorite team on any budget — and explain the newest MLB rules in plain English so you’ll know exactly what’s going on when you tune in. By the end of this episode, you’ll know where to watch, what’s changed, and what to look for during your very next game. ⚾ Perfect for brand-new baseball fans New to baseball? Start with Beginner’s Dugout — the podcast that makes the game finally make sense.