Vern's Season Preview Show

·1 hr 29 min·5 clips

Josh Vernier reveals his secret theme for the Royals' 2026 championship season after a month of observing the team in Arizona.

Josh Vernier opens the show by announcing it's his season preview edition with only two shows remaining before opening day. He discusses the World Baseball Classic extensively, highlighting Michael Garcia's four-hit game for Venezuela and Vinny Pasquantino's historic three-homer game for Italy. Vernier plays an interview with Michael Garcia where the third baseman discusses his work ethic, learning from Bobby Witt Jr. and Salvador Perez, and his reaction to being left off MLB Network's top third baseman list. The host then unveils his theme for the 2026 season: 'The Standard,' arguing this year should establish playoff expectations for Bobby Witt Jr.'s prime era. He reviews his previous season themes dating back to 2013, connecting the current core to the George Brett era. Vernier analyzes the rotation, naming Cole Reagans, Seth Lugo, Chris Bubich, Michael Wacca, and Noah Cameron as the starting five. He interviews Cole Reagans about his competitiveness, health goals, and October aspirations. The host breaks down the lineup, identifying six everyday players: Bobby Witt Jr., Michael Garcia, Vinny Pasquantino, Salvador Perez, Carter Jensen, and Jack Caglione. He discusses the bullpen hierarchy led by Carlos Estevez and Matt Strom. Vernier concludes with prospect mentions including Blake Mitchell and Ramon Ramirez before handing off to the game broadcast.

As heard by us

A Royals season preview that ties Arizona observations to the unfinished business of recent seasons.

Josh Verdier frames the Royals' approaching opener in Atlanta as a chance to size up both the club and his own 14 seasons behind the microphone.

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Why you'd press play

Want a Royals season preview that turns spring-training observations into a 2026 season theme, with a few franchise what-ifs along the way?

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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