Dirt Diamond Sports Talk - A Baseball Podcast

October Moves On Without Houston. What's Next?

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Mon, 5 Oct 2026 20:01:52 +0000

The Astros’ season is over, and the questions now reach well beyond the Wild Card sweep. Ryan and Wally close the book on Houston’s year, discuss Jim Crane’s search for a new baseball-operations leader and Joe Espada’s uncertain future, and examine the roster decisions that will shape what comes next. Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

AL West Champion Houston Astros - They're In, Now What?

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 20:14:23 +0000

The Astros survived the final week and claimed the AL West. Now comes a very different test. Ryan and Wally recap the Seattle and Athletics series, Lucas Spence’s breakout, and the timely production from Yordan Alvarez, Yainer Diaz and Christian Walker. Then we dig into the White Sox: what Houston’s 5–2 season-series advantage really means, why Sean Burke is a problem, and how a Game 1 bullpen plan could shape the entire Wild Card Series. From Hunter Brown and Hayden Wesneski to Chicago’s power-and-patience lineup, we break down the matchups that could send Houston deeper into October—or home early. The Astros earned the chance to keep playing. Now they have to earn the next round. There are real reasons to like this matchup: Brown and Wesneski have pitched well against Chicago, the bullpen has covered huge innings, and Yordan finally has more hitters producing around him. But the White Sox have answers. Burke can shut an offense down, their bullpen can change the matchups, and their lineup will punish free baserunners. For Houston, it comes down to throwing strikes, cashing in when Chicago pitches around Yordan, and getting contributions beyond the biggest names. The division race is over. Two wins are the assignment. This has been Dirt Diamond Sports Talk—we’ll see you after the first pitch. Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brutal Astros Homestand - Are The Playoffs Still In The Picture? Six Games To Go!

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 13:43:13 +0000

The Astros needed this homestand to create breathing room. Instead, a series win over Kansas City gave way to a sweep by Atlanta—and an increasingly uncomfortable playoff chase. Ryan and Wally break down the difference between hitting home runs and building a dependable offense, the bullpen breakdowns that erased winnable games, and which players are giving Houston a chance. Then we turn to the final six games: what needs to change immediately, how the division tiebreaker helps, and why a strong finish still requires some help. Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Statement Made? Astros Take Philly, Rays Await

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 15:31:47 +0000

The Astros walked into Philadelphia for one of their toughest series of the stretch run and walked out with two wins, a three-game lead in the AL West, and maybe a little more reason to believe this team can make some noise in October. We break down Houston's series win over the Phillies, including Cam Smith's huge three-game home run streak and ninth-inning heroics, Cristian Javier's outstanding start, another strong showing from the back end of the bullpen, Christian Walker showing some power, and Jose Altuve reaching the 2,500-hit milestone. But it wasn't all pretty. The Astros stranded 20 runners during the series, went just 2-for-12 with runners in scoring position in the two games they actually won, and watched a 4-0 lead disappear during an ugly pitching collapse Wednesday night. Are the Astros finally finding enough offense—or are pitching, defense and timely home runs still covering up the same old problems? Then we look ahead to an even bigger test: a three-game trip to Tampa Bay against the best team in the American League. Junior Caminero and Yordan Alvarez headline an MVP-caliber matchup, while Houston gets Drew Rasmussen and a Rays team that just took two of three from Atlanta. Philadelphia was a statement series. Now we find out whether the Astros can back it up. Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Winning Ugly: Astros Pitching Carries, Offense Still Searching

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Tue, 8 Sep 2026 18:05:45 +0000

The Astros took three of four from the White Sox, then dropped two of three to Arizona—and somehow both series told us almost the exact same thing. The pitching continues to give Houston every chance to win, Yainer Diaz is heating up, Isaac Paredes is producing, and Josh Hader has become a legitimate weapon again. But the offense remains frustratingly inconsistent, with Jeremy Peña, Christian Walker, and others struggling to provide the production this lineup needs. We break down both series, the players who are stepping up, the ones who need to get going, and Houston’s continued inability to consistently cash in scoring opportunities. Then we get into the Astros’ latest waiver claim, Jorge Barrosa. With Jake Meyers, Joey Loperfido, Daulton Varsho, Cam Smith, Nelson Velázquez and an already crowded group of outfielders in the organization, what exactly does another light-hitting, defense-first outfielder solve? The Astros are still sitting atop the AL West—but with October getting closer, the question is becoming pretty simple: can this offense score enough runs to take advantage of a pitching staff that looks ready for the postseason? Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Clutch Beats Pretty: Astros Go 4-2 Through New York, 13 Games That Matter, The Pitching Lab

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 04:27:02 +0000

After a brutal homestand raised plenty of questions, the Astros responded with one of their strongest road trips of the season—winning four of six games across two series in New York. Ryan and Wally break down how Houston turned things around through quality starting pitching, timely hitting, clean defense, and a bullpen that repeatedly protected close leads. They also take a closer look at Josh Hader’s dominant stretch and the stability he has brought to the back end of the bullpen. Was this simply a good week, or are the Astros beginning to find the formula they’ll need down the stretch? Plus, we look ahead to a crucial 13-game stretch—all against playoff contenders—that could significantly shape Houston’s postseason position. Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Astros First Place and Firing People, Blown Home Show, What Does The Future Hold

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 16:33:33 +0000

Wally is back, and we’ve got plenty to catch up on. We recap the Astros’ last two series against the Angels and A’s, including the good, the bad, and what stood out as Houston continues to fight through a tight AL West race. Then we dive into the biggest story of the day: Dana Brown’s sudden “mutually agreed upon” departure from the Astros, what may have led to it, and what it could mean for the organization going forward. We also sort through the Joe Espada controversy and the reporting that initially made it sound much worse than it ultimately was, before looking ahead to the next two series and what Houston needs to do to keep itself in position down the stretch. Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

BURY THEM NOW The Astros Chance to Break Seattle

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 18:20:38 +0000

The Astros escaped San Francisco with a series win — but did Houston really win it, or did the Giants simply find more ways to lose? Ryan and Wally break down a strange three-game set where the Astros were one strike from losing the opener, scored only three runs over the final two games, and somehow took the series after San Francisco repeatedly failed to capitalize on opportunities. We dig into Houston’s bullpen carrying the load, Hayden Wesneski continuing to provide much-needed innings, Josh Hader being stretched into a multi-inning weapon, and the lingering concerns surrounding a rotation that still doesn’t inspire complete confidence. Then it’s time for one of the biggest series of the season. The struggling Mariners arrive in Houston five games behind the Astros after finally snapping a six-game losing streak. We break down the Kirby-Lambert, Hancock-Wesneski and Woo-Brown pitching matchups, what has happened to Seattle’s offense, Cal Raleigh’s stunning falloff, Julio Rodríguez’s inability to carry the lineup, and why this weekend feels like a chance for Houston to put real distance between itself and a division rival. Finally, we take our first serious look at the remaining schedules. Houston opens a nine-game homestand against Seattle, the Angels and A’s while the Mariners are about to face a brutal stretch featuring Houston, Milwaukee, the Cubs and Phillies. The opportunity is sitting directly in front of the Astros. Good teams take advantage of stretches like this. Which kind of team will Houston choose to be? Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Astros Struggle in San Diego, Post Trade Deadline Acquisitions, What's Wrong with The Dodgers

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 14:41:39 +0000

The Astros leave San Diego with another series loss, and this one exposed an increasingly frustrating problem: the offense is putting balls in play but not consistently doing damage. Ryan and Wally break down the Padres series, including Cam Smith’s huge two-homer opener, another gutsy Peter Lambert start, Bryan Abreu continuing to look like a legitimate leverage weapon again, and Daulton Varsho finally showing some power in an Astros uniform. But the bigger story is what happened after Friday. Houston managed only seven hits and four runs over the final two games, culminating in a bizarre Sunday loss where the Astros struck out only once yet finished with just two hits. We dig into the contact-quality problem, Houston’s inability to hit with runners in scoring position, Cristian Javier’s trouble finishing hitters, and what these offensive warning signs could mean down the stretch. Then we head to Los Angeles, where the powerhouse Dodgers suddenly look very human. They’ve lost eight of nine, their bullpen has collapsed, their once-massive NL West lead is shrinking, and even one of baseball’s deepest rosters is struggling to get its pitching, offense and bullpen working at the same time. Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Astros Drop Series with The Jays, More Trade Talk, Looking Ahead to San Diego

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 00:53:38 +0000

The trade deadline is over, the Astros made their choice, and now it’s time to see whether this roster is actually good enough to hold the AL West. Ryan and Wally recap a frustrating Blue Jays series where Houston lost two of three despite creating plenty of offense, getting excellent stretches of starting pitching, and actually outscoring Toronto across the three games. We dig into the missed opportunities, Hunter Brown’s near no-hit performance, Hayden Wesneski’s continued progress, Taylor Trammell’s huge swing, Bryan Abreu’s quiet resurgence, and the little execution mistakes that cost Houston a series it probably should have won. Then we take another look at the deadline. Daulton Varsho clearly improves center field, but the Astros ultimately chose not to add another pitcher. Was that the right gamble? Finally, we preview a dangerous Padres team that went the opposite direction at the deadline, loading up on pitching with Robbie Ray and Casey Mize. With San Diego fighting for a Wild Card spot and Houston trying to protect first place in the West, this weekend is a real post-deadline measuring stick. Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trade Deadline Talk, Astros Sweep The Rangers Out Of Town, Does One Move Make Them Better?

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Tue, 4 Aug 2026 04:37:33 +0000

Trade deadline day gave the Astros both an answer and a new set of questions. Ryan and Wally break down a busy MLB deadline, looking at which teams got better, who sold well, and which contenders may not have done enough. Then the focus turns to Houston’s big move: acquiring Daulton Varsho from the Blue Jays for Spencer Arrighetti. Varsho gives the Astros a real center fielder, Gold Glove defense, a left-handed bat, and stability in an outfield that has been a problem all season — but trading away Arrighetti without adding pitching creates a new layer of risk. The guys also recap the Astros’ huge sweep of the Rangers, a series that flipped the AL West race and helped push Houston into buyer mode. Finally, they dig into tonight’s frustrating loss to Toronto, where the Astros had 10 hits, five walks, and plenty of chances, but scored only one run in a game they probably should have won. Did the Astros do enough at the deadline? Is Varsho the right fit? Can the rotation hold up without another arm? And after taking over first place, is Houston actually built to hold the division? Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Half A Game Back: The Astros Knock On the Door

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 16:52:48 +0000

The Astros are back to .500, half a game behind the Rangers, and suddenly walking into one of the biggest series of the season. After a 5-1 road trip and a sweep of the Angels, Ryan and Wally break down how Houston found ways to win even when the games got weird. The Angels were a mess, but the Astros took advantage — including a four-run ninth with only one hit, a game where the bullpen had to rescue a starter who recorded just two outs, and a series finale that pushed Houston back to even. We dig heavily into the pitching, especially the bullpen’s dominant work against Anaheim. Cristian Javier’s five scoreless relief innings, Bryan Abreu’s continued trust-building, Steven Okert’s stability, Josh Hader’s late-inning role, and Hayden Wesneski’s return all get attention. Then we turn to the Rangers series, with first place in the AL West within reach and the trade deadline looming. Should the Astros buy aggressively, make smaller targeted moves, or avoid overpaying for a flawed roster? We also run through possible trade scenarios involving outfield help, bullpen arms, starting pitching, and the names that actually make sense for Houston. Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Two Out of Three, But Sunday Stunk: Astros Stay in the Hunt, But Still Have Huge Questions

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 17:33:00 +0000

The Astros took two of three from the White Sox, and that matters. Friday showed the kind of offensive explosion this team still has in it. Saturday gave them the Hunter Brown start they have been waiting for all season. Peña is on fire, Paredes keeps producing in leverage, and Cam Smith gave them a badly needed sign of life from the outfield. But Sunday was ugly enough to keep everyone honest. The White Sox hit five home runs, Ronel Blanco still looked like a pitcher working his way back, the coverage arms got crushed, and Houston’s offense was basically three solo homers and a lot of quiet. Then there’s Yainer Díaz. The numbers are bad, and the process underneath is worse: lower exit velocity, lower hard-hit rate, lower barrel rate, lower launch angle, and way too many topped balls. The devil’s advocate case is that he still doesn’t strike out much, he has a real track record, and an oblique injury can wreck a hitter’s timing. But the Astros cannot pretend this version of Yainer is fine. Finally, the Peña question is where the deadline gets real. Trading him could reload the farm system, but keeping him keeps the season alive. Unless someone makes a ridiculous offer, Peña should stay. The Astros are not good enough to go all-in, but they are too close and too talented to sell off the heartbeat of the team. This still feels like selective-buy territory: add an outfielder, add a reliever, protect the future, and see if this flawed team can steal a flawed division. Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Astros Sweep of the Fish, Positive Pitching Notes, More Trade Ideas

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 16:11:48 +0000

The Astros answered a brutal Orioles sweep with exactly what they needed: a three-game sweep of the Marlins. We break down the key moments from the series, including Jeremy Peña’s power surge, Yordan Alvarez continuing to make the case against selling, Isaac Paredes providing protection in the middle of the lineup, and Peter Lambert continuing to stabilize the rotation. We also dig into the pitching side, including Ronel Blanco’s return, Bryan Abreu’s improved numbers since coming back, and what Lambert’s deeper stats say about whether his breakout is sustainable. Plus, we look ahead to the trade deadline and discuss whether the Astros should buy, sell, or take the selective-buyer path in a still-winnable AL West. Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Deadline Dilemma: Too Flawed to Buy, Too Talented To Sell - Astros in A Tight Spot

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 13:22:17 +0000

The Astros’ deadline dilemma is getting complicated.

After a brutal sweep by the Orioles, Houston looked like a team that might need to seriously consider selling. The pitching struggled, the offense went cold in key moments, and the Astros were swept despite out-hitting Baltimore in the series.

But then came a much-needed response against Miami. Ronel Blanco returned from Tommy John surgery and gave Houston a usable start, Jeremy Peña came back with a huge grand slam, and Yordan Alvarez did what Yordan does — launching two more homers and reminding everyone why this team is hard to give up on.

We break down the Orioles series, the pitching concerns, the offensive failures with runners in scoring position, Blanco’s return, Peña’s impact, and the big question facing the Astros at the trade deadline: should they buy, sell, or find a careful middle ground?

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Buy or Stand Down: The Astros at a Crossroads

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 12:52:21 +0000

The Astros head into the All-Star break at a pivotal point in the season, and this special episode asks the question hanging over the entire organization: buy or stand down?

We briefly revisit a frustrating series loss to the Rangers before diving into the Lance McCullers Jr. trade and what it may signal about Houston’s deadline plans. By moving McCullers and Colton Gordon, the Astros shed salary, opened two valuable 40-man roster spots, and created flexibility for the next move. Jadyn Fielder may be an intriguing lottery ticket, but this deal was clearly about preparing the roster for what comes next.

We break down the current state of the Astros, the weaknesses that continue to hold them back, and the pieces they need to become a legitimate playoff threat. From the lack of dependable outfield production to rotation uncertainty and the need for another high-leverage bullpen arm, Houston cannot afford to settle for marginal upgrades.

The Astros are still close enough to contend, but standing pat is not a real option. If this team believes it can make another postseason run, the front office must add players who can contribute immediately and truly move the needle.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Short Starts, Long Problems: Astros Drop Nationals Series, Rangers Loom

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Thu, 9 Jul 2026 14:57:57 +0000

The Astros dropped a frustrating series to the Nationals, and the deeper numbers show why: the starting pitching simply wasn’t good enough. We break down Mike Burrows’ rough opener, Tatsuya Imai’s shortened outing, and Spencer Arrighetti’s command collapse — including the alarming curveball numbers that Washington exposed.

We also look at where the offense failed in the losses, why scoring 19 runs still wasn’t enough to win the series, and what Houston has to clean up before heading into Arlington.

Plus, we preview the Rangers, who are heating up at the right time, and discuss what this rivalry series could mean for the Astros’ AL West hopes and trade deadline direction.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Flawed, Dangerous, and Still Alive - Astros Take 2 from the Hottest Team in Baseball

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Mon, 6 Jul 2026 16:14:28 +0000

The Astros are back in the conversation.

This week we recap the Twins and Rays series, with a heavy focus on pitching, Peter Lambert’s surprising rise, and the deeper numbers behind Houston’s recent turnaround. We break down Lambert’s ERA vs. FIP profile, Hunter Brown’s rough outing, Cristian Javier’s possible bullpen role, and how Hader, Okert, and King have helped stabilize the late innings.

We also dive into Yordan Alvarez’s MVP-level season, Isaac Paredes’ clutch production, Christian Walker reaching 20 homers again, and the role players who are starting to matter. Plus, we look at Astros trade rumors, possible deadline targets, and which teams around baseball are heating up.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

They Wouldn’t Go Away: Astros Fight, Late-Inning Magic, and Miguel Ullola’s Debut, Risers and Fallers

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 14:58:26 +0000

Wally and Ryan break down how the Astros took three of four from Detroit despite being outscored in the series, leaning on late-inning rallies, situational hitting, strong bullpen work, and clutch performances from Isaac Paredes and Christian Walker.

We break down the numbers behind Houston’s success, including how 12 of their 17 runs came after the sixth inning, the sharp contrast between the rotation and bullpen, and the areas that still need improvement.

We also recap the dramatic series opener against Minnesota, where Houston scored three runs in the ninth and nearly erased a four-run deficit. Plus, we discuss Christian Walker’s denied ABS challenge, Cam Smith’s two-homer night, Peter Lambert’s home-run issues, and an impressive major-league debut from Miguel Ullola.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Objects Are Closer Than They Appear - Astros Win 4 Consecutive Series Doing The Right Things Well

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 15:15:29 +0000

Ryan and Wally talk about how the Blue Jays series showed us two different versions of winning baseball. Tuesday, Houston survived a blown lead, used its entire roster, tied the game through situational hitting and won it with a dramatic swing from Joey Loperfido. Wednesday, Mike Burrows controlled the game, Loperfido created pressure with his legs, Cam Smith saved the lead with his glove, Raynel Delgado executed a bunt and Jeremy Peña supplied insurance. Then tonight, Imai dominated, Trammell broke up a perfect game, Peña manufactured another critical run and the bullpen survived without its most-used arms. The Astros are 14-11 over their last 25 with an essentially even run differential. They are not steamrolling opponents. They are simply playing better baseball when the game is close — throwing strikes, taking extra bases, making productive outs, playing defense and finding contributions from unexpected places. They are three games under .500 and a game and a half from first. A month ago, they were trying to prove the season was still alive. Now they are trying to take the division.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Astros take 2 of 3 from Cleveland, ABS helping the Astros, Pitching Surprises 6/22

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 12:52:42 +0000

Ryan and Wally chat about the keys to taking another series - this time against Cleveland, some pitching surprises, and how the Astros keep taking series, has the ABS actually helped this team compared to others, managerial decisions, some injuries.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Reinforcements Arrive: Can Houston Reach .500 by July?

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 14:16:54 +0000

On this ep, Ryan and Wally recap the series against Detroit where Hunter Brown and Yainer Diaz are added back to the roster, how the Astros took a series that started off looking lost, and what are the keys to this team reaching .500 in early July.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Astros Come Out of KC with a Series Win, Pitching Stuff, the Wild AL West,

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 23:00:00 +0000

Ryan (remote from Galveston Island) and Wally chat about the recent series in KC, touch on the previous series against LAA, break down some pitching stats and interesting facts, dig in on Brice Matthews outbreak of offense, and look at the wild, wild AL West.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Astros take home series against the A's, Wild Angels game, Arighetti behind the numbers, Who in the MLB can pull out of the funk

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 05:18:45 +0000

This episode of Dirt Diamond Sports Talk features a lively discussion on the Houston Astros' recent performance, pitching strategies, and prospects for the season. Hosts Ryan and Wally analyze team dynamics, player performances, and upcoming games, providing insights for baseball fans and analysts.

Astros' recent series performance against the A's
Spencer Araghetti's role and performance
Bullpen trust and closing strategies
Pitching improvements and concerns
Season outlook and playoff prospects

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Astros Drop 2 of 3 to Pirates, Hader is Back, Abreu's Struggles, Dana Slinging Pasta, A's Come to Town

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Fri, 5 Jun 2026 13:33:03 +0000

This episode of Dirt Diamond Sports Talk offers an in-depth analysis of the Houston Astros' recent performance, roster moves, and strategic challenges. Hosts Ryan and Wally discuss team statistics, player performances, and upcoming series, providing valuable insights for baseball fans and analysts.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Astros Drop 2-3 To Brewers, but was it really that bad? Pirates Series Preview, Injury Updates, Yankees - What? 5/31

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Mon, 1 Jun 2026 04:44:28 +0000

In this episode of Dirt Diamond Sports Talk, hosts Ryan Bokros and Wally analyze the Houston Astros' recent performance against the Brewers, pitching and hitting dynamics, upcoming series against the Pirates, and the state of the AL West. And, what in the world happened in the Yankees v A's game today?

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Astros Successful Road Trip, Yordan is UnGodly, Vasquez's "Intangibles" 5/28

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Fri, 29 May 2026 13:51:39 +0000

This episode has Ryan and Wally covering Houston Astros' recent performance on this road trip through Minn, Chicago, and South Oklahoma, is Yordan carrying this team too much, Vasquez and his massive emergency value, what looks different pitching-wise, and more.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dodgers Come To Town, More Astros Injuries, Are The Rays Really This Good, Headed to Cinci - 5/7

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Fri, 8 May 2026 14:45:26 +0000

This episode of Dirt Diamond Sports Talk covers the Houston Astros' recent series struggles, injury updates, and analysis of the Tampa Bay Rays' surprising performance. Hosts Ryan Bokros and Wally analyze team dynamics, pitching issues, and upcoming series, providing insights for baseball fans.

Astros injury updates and lineup challenges
Tampa Bay Rays' unexpected success and sustainability
Upcoming series in Cincinnati and pitching strategies

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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Astros Take 2 of 3 in Boston and Look Like a Real Baseball Team, Brice and Yainer Heat Up, Are The Braves Baseball's Best Team, Chris Sale HOF'er?

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Mon, 4 May 2026 04:35:45 +0000

This episode covers the Houston Astros' recent series against the Boston Red Sox, analyzing pitching, key players like Bryce Matthews and Yainer Diaz, and comparing top teams like the Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Dodgers. It offers insights into team performance, player development, and prospects for the season.

Key Topics

Astros' recent series performance
Player development: Bryce Matthews and Yiner Diaz
Team comparisons: Braves, Dodgers, Yankees
Pitching improvements and concerns

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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Bi-Polar Baseball, Pretender or Contender Redu, What Will May Mean for the Astros

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Fri, 1 May 2026 14:35:54 +0000

In this episode, hosts Ryan and Wally analyze the Houston Astros' recent series against Baltimore, discuss team performance, pitching struggles, and prospects for the season. They also evaluate other teams' chances of making the playoffs and share insights on upcoming matchups.

Key Topics

Astros pitching struggles and bullpen issues
Team performance and season outlook
Contender vs pretender analysis in MLB

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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Weird Week Against Cleveland and New York, The Mystery That Is Not, Hot Seat Managers 4/26

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 14:02:43 +0000

This episode of Dirt Diamond Sports Talk features an in-depth analysis of the Houston Astros' recent performance against the Cleveland Guardians and New York Yankees, pitching issues are no longer a mystery, and league-wide managerial changes and hot seats. Hosts Ryan Bokros and Wally dissect team dynamics, pitching strategies, and the impact of roster construction on success.

Key Topics

Houston Astros pitching issues and walk problems
League-wide managerial hot seats and team performance
Pitching strategies and execution analysis
Roster construction and talent development challenges

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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Feeling Like Old Times - Cards Come Into Houston and Sweep, Contender or Pretender, Heading to Cleveland

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 05:28:14 +0000

Summary

In this episode of Dirt Diamond Sports, hosts Ryan Bokros and Wally analyze recent MLB performances, focusing on the Houston Astros' struggles, team contenders and pretenders, and league-wide surprises. They provide insights into team dynamics, player performances, and organizational challenges, offering a comprehensive view of the current baseball season.

Key Topics

Houston Astros' organizational depth and injury issues

League-wide pretenders and contenders analysis

Surprising team performances: Pirates, Braves, Reds

Impact of injuries and organizational decisions on team success

Early-season league overview and future outlook

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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Rough Road Trip, Mediocre Homecoming, Next-Guy-Up Rotation, Bleak Look Ahead

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 14:24:02 +0000

This episode of Dirt Diamond Sports Talk features Ryan Bokros and Wally analyzing the Houston Astros' challenging start to the season, including injuries, roster issues, and upcoming crucial games. They also discuss other MLB teams, division races, and managerial hot seats, providing insights into baseball strategies and team performances.

Key Topics

Astros' injury woes and roster challenges
Impact of injuries on team performance
Upcoming crucial series and division race
Managerial hot seats and team management
MLB division standings and surprises

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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Seattle Sweep - But Not The One We Wanted, More Injuries Plague the Astros, Pitching Problems, and more... 4/13

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 15:32:32 +0000

In this episode of Dirt Diamond Sports Talk, hosts Ryan and Wally analyze the Houston Astros' recent series against the Mariners, discussing pitching struggles, strategic insights, and upcoming challenges. They explore team performance, managerial decisions, and prospects for the season, providing valuable insights for baseball fans.

Key Topics

Pitching struggles and team depth
Strategic adjustments and game analysis
Upcoming series and season outlook

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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Astros Drop Mile High Series, Injuries Hit Again, "Next Man Up" - Not Really, Next up: Struggling Seattle - 4/9

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 04:11:27 +0000

In this episode of Dirt Diamond Sports Talk, hosts Ryan and Wally analyze the recent struggles of the Houston Astros while in Denver, focusing on pitching issues, player performances, and the upcoming series against Seattle. They discuss strategic adjustments, injury impacts, and the importance of player development in the team's current season.

Key Topics

Pitching struggles and bullpen management

Injury updates and their impact on team performance

Player development and farm system evaluation

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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Astros Drop Series to A's in Offensive Battle, Hunter Brown Goes on IL, On to Coors Field - 4/5

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Mon, 6 Apr 2026 03:15:22 +0000

This episode of Dirt Diamond Sports Talk features Ryan Bokros and Wally analyzing recent MLB games, focusing on the Houston Astros' series against the Oakland Athletics and upcoming challenges at Coors Field. They discuss pitching strategies, player performances, and team analytics, providing insights for baseball fans and analysts.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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Early Season Sweep Holds Keys to Season Long Success - 4/1

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Thu, 2 Apr 2026 04:21:45 +0000

After a gritty split with the Angels, the Astros returned to Daikin Park and absolutely dismantled the Boston Red Sox. In this episode, Ryan and Wally break down a dominant three-game sweep that saw the rotation reach historic milestones and the "new-look" infield play perfect baseball.

In this episode, we dive into:

The 600-K Club: A historic back-to-back as Lance McCullers Jr. and Hunter Brown both reach the 600-career strikeout milestone in consecutive starts. We break down the "cybermetrics" behind Lance’s hammer curve and Brown’s rising high-heat.
Altuve’s Perfection: Recapping Jose’s flawless 4-for-4 Opening Night and why his "age-out" projections are officially trash.
Captain Clutch: Carlos Correa silences the skeptics with a game-winning 3-run blast to seal the sweep.
The "Zero-Error" Infield: How Christian Walker and the new defensive alignment are creating "invisible wins" for the pitching staff

Look Ahead to Sacramento: We preview the upcoming trip to Sutter Health Park. Is the "Coors Field of the AL West" about to turn this series into a home run derby?

Analytics Corner: We go deep on CSW% (Called Strikes + Whiffs) and why the Astros' current staff is physically dominating the zone in a way we haven't seen in years.

Don't forget to subscribe to Dirt Diamond Sports Talk for your deep-dive Astros coverage!

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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Astros Split Season Opening Series, Red Sox Come To Town 3/29

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Wed, 1 Apr 2026 15:59:33 +0000

In this episode:

Review of the Astros' performance in the Angels series, highlighting walks, scoring, and key moments
Pitching command struggles, including walk rates and starter depth concerns
Bullpen usage, including Christian Abreu's rough start and positive signs from other relievers
Offensive contributions from players like Christian Vazquez, Yainer Diaz, and Jordan Alvarez
Analysis of key opposing players, especially Trout and the Red Sox hitters
Upcoming series preview: matchups, pitching angles, and strategy expectations
Discussion on early season trends like walk-taking and strikeout rates

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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2026 Season Final Projections and Thoughts on Rosters - 3/26/2026

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Sat, 28 Mar 2026 03:11:46 +0000

This episode features a lively discussion on the upcoming 2026 MLB season, division projections, team analyses, and predictions for the World Series, with insights into team strategies, player performances, and season outlooks.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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Spring Training is Over, Astros Roster moves, 2026 Season Over/Under

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 04:25:04 +0000

Ryan and Wally discuss spring training roster decisions, player performances, and season predictions for Major League Baseball teams, with insights into player potential, team strategies, and betting odds. We do a little 2026 Astros Over/Under as well.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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Post-World Baseball Classic Insights, Astros' Season Preview, and MLB Division OutlooksPost-World Baseball Classic Insights, Astros' Pirching Season Preview, and MLB Division Outlooks

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Sun, 22 Mar 2026 20:43:06 +0000

Join Ryan and Wally as they break down the excitement of the WBC finals, delve into Houston Astros' roster strategies, and analyze MLB division make-up.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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USA in WBC Championship, Astros Spring Training Notes, NL West Preview

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 18:51:42 +0000

We cover the latest in baseball, including WBC updates, team performances, Astros player insights, and NL West season outlooks. Hosts Ryan and Wally analyze key games, player developments, and team strategies as the season approaches

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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Astros Add Familiar Faces, Clubhouse Tension?, NL Central Preview

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 17:29:54 +0000

In this episode of Dirt Diamond Sports Talk, Ryan and Wally discuss the latest happenings in baseball, focusing on the Astros' spring training, rising tensions in the clubhouse, Sanchez and Loperfido trade, the signing of Cavan Biggio, injury updates, and the dynamics of the NL Central division. They analyze the implications of recent trades, the performance of players, and the overall strategy of the Astros as they prepare for the upcoming season. The conversation also touches on the broader trends in the league, including the rise of prove-it deals and the potential impact of player development on team success.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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2026 On The Horizon

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 01:28:45 +0000

In this episode of Dirt Diamond Sports Talk, Ryan and Wally discuss the kickoff of the baseball season, the dynamics of the Astros roster, and the ongoing trade talks surrounding Paredes. They also preview the NL East, analyzing team strengths and weaknesses, and conclude with insights on league-wide trends and predictions for the upcoming season.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Astros New Year Episode

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Thu, 8 Jan 2026 16:44:16 +0000

Wally and Ryan discuss the recent moves made by the Houston Astros as they prepare for the 2026 season. They reflect on their New Year celebrations, analyze the team's pitching strategy, and assess the lineup needs, particularly the lack of left-handed bats. The duo also delves into the dynamics of the infield, the competition within the division, and predictions for free agency, including potential player movements. They conclude by looking ahead to the upcoming season and the challenges that lie ahead for the Astros and their rivals.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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Ep 10: Astros Split with Angels, Luis Garcia Returns, September Schedule Rundown

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Wed, 3 Sep 2025 02:08:09 +0000

In this episode of Dirt Diamond Sports Talk, Ryan and Wally discuss the recent performances of the Houston Astros, including their struggles with timely hitting and the return of pitcher Luis Garcia. They analyze the team's current standing and upcoming games, emphasizing the importance of the next few weeks as the Astros aim for the playoffs. The conversation also touches on player dynamics, the impact of injuries, and the overall excitement of September baseball.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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Ep 9: Dirt Diamond Sports Talk After Dark - Astros Keep Finding Was to Win, Playoff Picture, Remaining Schedules

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Sat, 30 Aug 2025 16:08:31 +0000

In this episode of Dirt Diamond Sports Talk, Ryan and Wally discuss the recent performance of the Houston Astros, focusing on key players like Christian Javier and Jordan Alvarez. They analyze the team's pitching dynamics, offensive struggles, and the impact of injuries on player performance. The conversation also touches on the resilience of the Astros, their upcoming challenges, and the playoff race, particularly in relation to the Seattle Mariners. The hosts provide insights into the team's ability to perform under pressure and make predictions for the remainder of the season.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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EP 8: Will The Yankees Ever Learn To Quit Booing Altuve, Homecomings in HTown, Jason Alexander Who?

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 18:22:48 +0000

In this episode of Dirt Diamond Sports Talk, Ryan and Wally discuss the recent performance of the Houston Astros, including their road trip from Boston to Miami to New York and back down to Houston, key contributions from guys like Urias and Walker, and pitching strategies. They analyze the return of Christian Javier, the impact of Jason Alexander, and the overall dynamics of the team as they head into the final stretch of the season. The conversation also touches on future prospects and predictions for upcoming games, emphasizing the importance of execution and team cohesion.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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EP 7: Painful Trip To Beantown, Correa Is HOME, More Pitching Whoes, The AL West is Getting Interesting

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Tue, 5 Aug 2025 05:32:04 +0000

In this episode of Dirt Diamond Sports Talk, Ryan and Wally discuss the recent struggles of the Astros, including a disappointing series in Boston. They analyze player performances, particularly focusing on pitching and the impact of injuries. The conversation shifts to the dynamics of the lineup, comparing players like Correa and Pena, and addressing the challenges faced by rookies. As the Astros prepare for a series against Miami, they emphasize the importance of making contact and executing plays to secure wins.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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Ep 6: Trade Deadline Special - Astros Fill Needs and Get Nostalgic

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Fri, 1 Aug 2025 03:38:31 +0000

In this episode of Dirt Diamond Sports Talk, Ryan and Wally discuss the recent MLB trade deadline, focusing on the Houston Astros' strategic moves, including the return of Carlos Correa. They analyze the competitive landscape of the league, highlight surprising trades, and reflect on teams that fell short of expectations. The conversation emphasizes the importance of making smart trades and the impact of player performance on team dynamics.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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EP 5: Astros Worst Series of the Season, Injury Updates. Guys Coming Back, HOF Inductions, Trade Targets

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 18:48:57 +0000

In this episode of Dirt Diamond Sports Talk, Ryan and Wally discuss the recent struggles of the Houston Astros, including their poor performance over the weekend, injury woes, and the impact of player rehabilitation. They analyze the team's pitching challenges, offensive struggles, and the upcoming trade deadline, exploring potential moves to bolster the roster. The conversation also touches on the recent Hall of Fame inductions, highlighting the achievements of players like Billy Wagner and Ichiro Suzuki.

The Astros are facing unprecedented injury challenges.
Recent series against the A's highlighted the team's struggles.
Pitching performance has been a major concern for the Astros.
Offensive woes include poor performance with runners in scoring position.
Rehabilitation of key players is crucial for the team's success.
Trade deadline strategies are being discussed to improve the roster.
Hall of Fame inductions celebrated significant player achievements.
The Astros need to find a way to win despite injuries.
Fans are eager for the return of injured players.
The team's depth is being tested as they navigate the season.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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EP 4: Astros Injury Woes, M's Series Chaos, Pitching Struggles, Hot Stove Stuff

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 20:27:41 +0000

In this episode of Dirt Diamond Sports, Ryan and Wally discuss the recent performance of the Astros, including game highlights, pitching woes, and offensive struggles. They delve into the implications of injuries on the team and the upcoming trade deadline, exploring potential strategies for improvement. The conversation also touches on league-wide observations, particularly focusing on the surprising performance of teams like the Brewers and the disappointing trajectory of the Orioles. The hosts emphasize the importance of patience for Astros fans as the team navigates through challenges and looks ahead to upcoming series.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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EP 3: All Star Break Thoughts, First Half Reflections, Looking Ahead

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 20:45:31 +0000

In this episode of Dirt Diamond Sports Talk, Ryan and Wally discuss the Houston Astros' recent struggles, particularly focusing on injuries and the performance of some journeymen AAAA players stepping up. They analyze the coaching strategies of Joe Espada and the overall morale of the team. The conversation shifts to the upcoming All-Star break, trade deadline speculations, and the relevance of the All-Star game in today's baseball landscape. They conclude with thoughts on the team's future and the impact of key players returning from injury.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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EP 2 - Astros SWEEP in LA, Chaos in DC, Subway Series, All Star Rostrers, RIP to some Legends

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Tue, 8 Jul 2025 03:55:35 +0000

Ryan and Wally are back!

In this episode of Dirt Diamond Sports, Ryan and Wally discuss the recent performance of the Houston Astros, including their impressive sweep in LA, the impact of injuries on the team, and the overall culture of winning that defines the Astros. They also touch on the struggles of the Yankees and Nationals, the surprising performance of the Cubs, and remember baseball legends who recently passed away. The conversation wraps up with expectations for the upcoming series and the All-Star selections.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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EP1: AL West Talk and Astros Take Series from Angels

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 00:23:24 +0000

Ryan and Wally talk about the Astros series win against the LA Angels, the road ahead before the All-Star Break, discuss the scene in the AL West, and touch on a few other bits of MLB news and chatter.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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Intro: Meet Ryan and Wally

rbokros@gmail.com (Ryan Bokros and Walt Penberthy) — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 23:53:59 +0000

Just a little chit chat about who we are and what this is all about.

Dirt Diamond Sports Talk is a proud part of the Spark Podcast Network. Ryan Bokros and Walter Penberthy co-hosts.

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