The MLB All-Struggle Team

Wake and Jake present a humorous yet insightful 'All Struggle Team' episode, spotlighting MLB players who have underperformed through mid-May 2026. The hosts use Fangraphs' offensive WAR metrics as a foundation, focusing on offensive struggles while acknowledging defensive contributions and context like injuries and expectations. They highlight Cal Raleigh and Rafael Devers as the catchers and first basemen, respectively, due to their massive drop from high expectations. The list features New York-based players like Marcus Simeon, Jazz Chisholm, Trevor Story, and Fernando Tatis Jr., with the outfield anchored by Jaron Duran and Stephen Kwan. The pitching staff includes Roki Sasaki and Brian Abreu, both of whom have seen dramatic declines from elite status. The episode balances criticism with empathy, emphasizing that baseball is long and momentum can shift. Despite the lighthearted tone, the hosts express genuine concern for players like Cal Raleigh, whose 0-for-36 slump and showering incident sparked debate. The episode serves as both a fan engagement tool and a reminder that even elite players face slumps. The hosts use the list to spark conversation, encourage fans to reflect on their own player expectations, and celebrate resilience. They also promote Apple TV’s Subway Series coverage, Tushy’s bidet, and Best Western’s summer travel deals. Ultimately, the team is less about shaming players and more about acknowledging the emotional weight of underperformance in a high-pressure sport, while still finding humor in the chaos of midseason baseball.