Harper vs. Manfred, Nick Kurtz’s 4-HR Game, Clase Suspended, 2025 Hall of Fame Inductions, Ryne Sandberg’s Passing, & Trade Deadline Buzz | 96

Welcome to Tablesetters Episode 96. This week’s show covers a wide range of moments, some historic, some difficult, as baseball heads into one of the most important stretches of the 2025 season.

We begin with Nick Kurtz’s remarkable 4-HR, 6-for-6 game, a performance that instantly stands among the greatest single-game offensive showings in Major League history. We then shift to Bryce Harper’s tense exchange with Commissioner Rob Manfred in the Phillies clubhouse, a moment that speaks volumes about the current state of labor relations in baseball.

Partway through the episode, we received the heartbreaking news that Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg has passed away at the age of 65. We take a moment to process and reflect on the impact Sandberg made on the game, both as a legendary second baseman and as a respected figure in the sport.

Also in this week’s coverage: • Emmanuel Clase placed on leave amid MLB’s ongoing gambling investigation • Seth Lugo signs a $46 million extension with the Royals, reshaping trade talks around starting pitchers • Full reaction to the 2025 Hall of Fame class, featuring Ichiro, CC Sabathia, Billy Wagner, Dave Parker, and Dick Allen • A comprehensive MLB Trade Deadline Tracker, covering key moves, rumors, and what to watch heading into the final days

Listen to Tablesetters wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on Instagram and X @TablesettersPod for exclusive deadline coverage and real-time updates throughout the week.