“WAR on Hot Takes” Episode 2: Quarterback salaries, Mystics in the playoffs, Orioles and Nationals wrapping up 2017

Here’s the second episode of Capital News Service’s sports podcast, “WAR on Hot Takes,” with Dylan Sinn and Adam Zielonka.

“WAR on Hot Takes” Episode 1: NFL Preview, Anthony Rendon and Orioles’ walk rate

Capital News Service’s Studio C is proud to debut its newest venture, “WAR on Hot Takes,” a podcast by Dylan Sinn and Adam Zielonka approaching Washington and Baltimore professional sports from an outsider’s perspective, influenced by data analytics.

How to build an MLB team that will win the World Series–or at least come close

Based on the conversations we have with one another about our favorite MLB clubs, we all think we would be a great general manager capable of building the perfect, title-winning baseball team. We’re all wrong, at least some of the time, because even the “best” team often does not win the championship.

Ticket promotions help big league clubs draw in fans

Over the past three seasons, the Orioles have averaged between 8,000 and 12,000 more people during games with promotions than without. A significant number of the around 30 promotional games each season come during the weekend.

New teams are economic boost to some cities, including Washington and Baltimore

WASHINGTON – If you listen closely enough during the summer months in Washington’s Navy Yard neighborhood, you might hear the crack of a bat smashing a baseball and a roaring crowd through the sound of jackhammers and drills. The home…

Teams with no mascot are worth more than teams with one

A Capital News Service analysis shows which type of mascot is the best mascot for professional teams. Teams with no mascot tend to be worth more and win more than teams with one.

Do MLB pitchers suffer from World Baseball Classic participation?

Now playing in its fourth World Baseball Classic, Team USA has quickly established a tradition of bringing its B-list pitching staff to the international stage while the nation’s best arms choose to stay in Spring Training.

Are MLB teams paying closers for production or a mindset?

NATIONAL HARBOR, Maryland – Chicago Cubs free agent pitcher Aroldis Chapman is believed to be looking for a $100 million contract this offseason, stirring the pot that sits atop baseball’s hot stove. RELATED STORY: What’s Mark Trumbo really worth to…

What’s Mark Trumbo really worth to the Orioles?

After rejecting Baltimore’s qualifying offer of $17.2 million, Trumbo is on the free-agent market, likely looking for a multi-year deal worth more than $15-million-per-year.

Why the Washington Nationals are on Pace to Break MLB Strikeout Record

A few teams’ starting rotations have gotten close, including the 2015 Cleveland Indians, which finished the season with 969 strikeouts and the 2002 Arizona Diamondbacks.