Fitzgerald & Outman Split: Betting Implications for Separated Twins

Breaking Up the Band: Fitzgerald & Outman Go Solo

Once upon a time, Ryan Fitzgerald and James Outman were known for more than just their bat skills—they were practically baseball’s version of the Parent Trap, teammates and doppelgängers. But the bromance was broken up after a wave of transactions sent them down different paths. No more twin tricks or side-by-side WAR comparisons—Fitzgerald and Outman are now flying solo. For bettors, this matters less for the sentimental value and more for their potential MLB contributions. Outman, in particular, still has a shot at regular playing time, and if he heats up, he can be a sneaky value in player prop markets. Keep an eye on his placement in the batting order and how he’s used going forward.

Meanwhile, Achille Baddou was mysteriously absent from the minor league free agent draft list. Turns out, he accepted an outright assignment during the season, making him a free agent and not eligible for the draft. It’s a technicality, but for fantasy and futures purposes, it’s a reminder that player status can shift quickly—especially with fringe guys like Baddou who bounce between rosters like it's a game of pinball.

Broadcast Blues and the Rob Manfred Meditation Minute

Commissioner Rob Manfred popped his head out like a groundhog this week and made it official: he's retiring in January 2029. That gives us three more years of what we like to call "The Manfred Era," where rule changes are fast and furious, and broadcast drama has become a staple of the offseason. He claims he starts each day reminding himself, “It’s about the fans,” though we’re skeptical he actually does a daily zen moment before checking on RSN lawsuits.

Speaking of which, the broadcast situation is a hot mess again. Nine MLB teams have terminated their contracts with Main Street Sports—formerly known as Diamond Sports Group, which is basically the Rasputin of sports media, refusing to die. The Reds, Braves, Tigers, Royals, Angels, Marlins, Brewers, Cardinals, and Rays are all in limbo. Some may renegotiate. Others might go the MLB takeover route. Streaming services like Fubo and DAZN are circling like vultures at a buffet, looking to grab those rights.

This chaos has real betting implications. If you're wagering on player props or live games, know your broadcast access. In-market streaming might make it easier, but fragmented coverage could reduce visibility and drive down betting volume. And with the CBA looming, the instability could impact negotiations—especially around revenue sharing and player compensation. Add a dash of proposed in-season tournaments and split seasons (please no), and Manfred’s legacy is cooking up to be as spicy as a jalapeño slider at the ballpark.

Arbitration Drama & The Tigers’ Pricey Dilemma

Over in Detroit, lefty ace Tarik Skubal is making headlines—not for his stats, but for his salary demands. The Tigers filed at $19 million, but Skubal wants a whopping $32 million. That’s not just a gap—it’s a canyon wide enough to fit Comerica Park. And in arbitration, there’s no middle ground. It’s one number or the other. No splitting the difference like you’re haggling over a used car.

Skubal, a two-time Cy Young winner, is also on the MLBPA executive subcommittee, which means this isn’t just about one player’s payday. It’s a union test case. The Tigers haven’t gone to a hearing since 2019, and they usually settle pre-hearing. Still, this one feels different. Even if the arbitrator doesn’t grant the full $32 million, the negotiation itself sets a tone for future pitcher comps and the union’s stance on valuing elite arms pre-free agency.

For bettors, Skubal’s situation is worth watching. If tensions rise or a trade becomes likely, it could impact his win totals, strikeout props, and even AL Cy Young odds. If Detroit decides to move him, his value could actually increase depending on the landing spot. Either way, this is one arbitration case where the stakes are high and the ripple effects could hit your sportsbook slip.

Heated Rivalry, But MLB Still Cold on LGBTQ Representation

Outside of box scores and arbitration tables, there's been buzz around the hit show “Heated Rivalry”—a steamy hockey drama featuring two players falling in love. It’s become a sensation, not just for its storytelling and romance, but because it’s struck a chord with fans and closeted athletes alike. Actors have reportedly received messages from pro players thanking them for the representation. But notably absent from that list? Baseball players.

MLB still hasn’t had an active player come out publicly. Sure, there’s been representation in minor leagues and post-retirement, but the big leagues remain a closed closet. It’s 2024, and we’re still waiting. The league’s tepid support—like banning Pride Night jerseys only to awkwardly backtrack later—doesn’t exactly scream “safe space.” For a sport that celebrates tradition, it’s past time to modernize the clubhouse culture.

This matters beyond representation. Cultural progress affects fan engagement, team branding, and yes, even betting markets. If MLB wants to expand its audience and grow the game, it needs to be inclusive. A sport can’t claim it’s “for the fans” while ignoring a big part of its potential fanbase. And for bettors, a bigger, more diverse audience means more interest, more data, and more action across the board.

Takeaways

• Outman and Fitzgerald part ways, with Outman still holding some betting upside if he lands consistent playing time.
• Rob Manfred’s broadcast headaches continue as MLB teams cut ties with Main Street Sports; streaming uncertainty could impact live betting.
• Tarik Skubal’s arbitration battle could set a new precedent—watch his situation for trade rumors and performance impact.
• MLB remains behind on LGBTQ inclusion; shows like “Heated Rivalry” highlight just how far the league still has to go.

Baseball’s off-field drama this week might not show up in the box score, but it could shape the next few seasons—and your next few bets. Stay sharp, stay savvy, and keep your eye on more than just the scoreboard.