Episodes

  • OTW 250 - FAAB #5, April 19, 2026
    Apr 19 2026
    0:00 – Intro / Episode 250 / Baseball Travel Talk Milestone episode, recap of missed show, Target Field experiencePlayers discussed: Garrett Crochet 8:00 – Reds Struggles & Early News Notes Cincinnati lineup issues, demotion of Noelvi Marte, Rece Hinds discussionTeam performance impacting fantasy valuePlayers discussed: Noelvi Marte, Rece Hinds, Elly De La Cruz, Eugenio Suárez 15:00 – Blue Jays Trade & Playing Time Shifts Toronto acquires Lenyn Sosa, impact on lineup constructionClement’s role stability and everyday at-bats discussionPlayers discussed: Lenyn Sosa, Ernie Clement, Andrés Giménez 22:00 – Astros Injuries & Rotation Opportunities Multiple injuries create openings; deep dive on pitching replacementsStrong endorsement of Arrighetti as a pickupPlayers discussed: Spencer Arrighetti, Colton Gordon, Jeremy Peña, Lance McCullers Jr. Jr. 32:00 – Orioles Rotation & Depth Moves Dean Kremer re-enters rotation, Cade Povich optionedEvaluation of reliability and streaming viabilityPlayers discussed: Dean Kremer, Cade Povich 38:00 – Brewers Injury Fallout (Yelich IL) Christian Yelich injury opens DH opportunitiesGary Sánchez emerging as short-term valuePlayers discussed: Christian Yelich, Gary Sánchez 45:00 – Cleveland Bullpen & Spec Saves Hunter Gaddis return and bullpen hierarchy discussionSpeculative saves approachPlayers discussed: Hunter Gaddis, Cade Smith 50:00 – Diamondbacks & Catcher Playing Time Merrill Kelly return, Gabriel Moreno injuryPlaying time implications for backup catchersPlayers discussed: Merrill Kelly, Gabriel Moreno, Adrian Del Castillo, James McCann 58:00 – White Sox Call-Ups & FAAB Targets Noah Schultz debut and FAAB expectationsAntonacci speed profile and lineup rolePlayers discussed: Noah Schultz, Sam Antonacci 1:08:00 – Rehab Updates & Stash Decisions Key injured players returning and stash strategyPlayers discussed: Spencer Strider, Anthony Volpe, Gerrit Cole 1:18:00 – Additional News (Injuries & Playing Time) Ryan Pepiot setback, Harrison Bader injury, Drew Gilbert opportunityMets situation with MJ Melendez and Jorge PolancoPlayers discussed: Ryan Pepiot, Harrison Bader, Drew Gilbert, MJ Melendez, Jorge Polanco 1:30:00 – Player Recommendations by Category (FAAB Core) Power targets: Dominic Smith, Luke Raley, Trevor LarnachSpeed strategy: matchup-based steals (vs Miami/Tampa)Opportunity plays: Jeremiah Jackson, Andrew BenintendiPitching streamers: Jesse Scholtens, Sean Burke, Emerson Hancock 1:45:00 – Ratios, Bullpens & Speculative Adds Ratio arms: Aaron Ashby breakout usageBullpen chaos: Cubs (Ben Brown), Texas, Tampa, RoyalsSpeculative adds & prospectsPlayers discussed: Ben Brown, Jakob Junis, Robert Garcia, Carlos Estévez Hosts: Adam Howe | Kevin HastingSubscribe: Apple | Spotify | Amazon | YouTube | RSSJoin: PL+ | PL ProProud member of the Pitcher List Podcast Network Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    1 hr and 46 mins
  • OTW 249 - FAAB #3; April 5, 2026
    Apr 5 2026
    On The Wire - A jam-packed early-season episode breaks down a wave of MLB injuries and their fantasy ripple effects, with a heavy focus on actionable FAAB targets. The hosts analyze playing time shifts, category-specific pickups, and strategy for both standard leagues and special formats like Razzslam/Cutline0:00 – Intro and NewsHeavy early-season injury/news dump replaces traditional mid-show topicKey players discussed:Mookie Betts (injury, Dodgers replacements: Miguel Rojas, Alex Freeland)Juan Soto (calf injury; Mets fill-ins: Tyrone Taylor, Jared Young)Alejandro Kirk (thumb fracture; catching fallout)Byron Buxton (minor injury update)Sal Frelick (Brewers OF shuffle: Luis Matos, Garrett Mitchell, Brandon Lockridge)Jordan Lawlar (fractured wrist)Pavin Smith (IL) → opens door for José Fernández, Adrian Del CastilloMickey Moniak return (Rockies playing time outlook)Justin Verlander (IL; Tigers rotation implications)Cade Horton (IL; Cubs replacement candidates: Colin Rea, Ben Brown)Cody Ponce (ACL) + Patrick Corbin signingJohan Oviedo (IL; drop discussion)Zach Eflin (elbow concern; Dean Kremer vs Cade Povich speculation)José Buttó (IL; Blade Tidwell opportunity)Prospect extensions/debuts: Konnor Griffin, Colt Emerson, Cooper Pratt~33:00 – Razzslam / Cutline FAAB #1Strategy for first FAAB run in best ball formatsAggressive spending encouraged (up to ~60–75%)Focus on replacing injured/non-playing assetsImportance of long waterfall bidsRoster construction discussion (pitcher/hitter balance, positional coverage)~47:00 – Power Categories (HR, RBI)Targets discussed:Austin HaysJordan WalkerJoey LoperfidoRhys HoskinsLuke RaleyMark VientosFocus on platoon advantages and favorable weekly matchups~54:00 – Speed Categories (R, SB)Targets discussed:Troy Johnston (leadoff opportunity emerging)Mickey Moniak (volume + Coors effect)Emphasis on lineup position + matchup-based streaming~59:00 – Opportunity (AB, AVG)Teams with 7-game weeks highlightedTargets discussed:Lenyn Sosa (White Sox vs LHP-heavy schedule)Jerar Encarnacion (Giants 1B opportunity)José Fernández / Alex Freeland (injury-driven playing time)~1:05:00 – Pitching Volume (W, K)Targets discussed:Dean Kremer / Cade Povich (Orioles rotation opening)Martín Pérez (matchup-based streamer)Jansen Junk (two-start week)Colin Rea (Cubs replacement option)~1:10:00 – Pitching Ratios (ERA, WHIP)Targets discussed:Keaton Winn (Giants high-leverage reliever, ratios + upside)Strategy: early-season ratio stabilization via relievers~1:12:00 – Closers (Saves)Bullpens discussed:Royals: Lucas Erceg, Matt Strahm, John Schreiber (Carlos Estévez injury context)Rays: Brian Baker vs Griffin Jax situationDiamondbacks: unstable; long-term AJ Puk stashAngels: Jordan Romano vs Kirby YatesFocus on role clarity, usage patterns, and speculative adds~1:18:00 – Wild Card (Stashes)Targets discussed:Max Muncy (Athletics everyday role, balanced production)Leo De Vries (future stash; elite prospect watch)Additional discussion: Dodgers pitching usage (six-man rotation, spot starts)~1:22:00 – Closing CommentsReminder to submit FAAB early (holiday weekend)Don’t overreact to slow starts—bench stars if needed, don’t drop themImportance of maintaining full active lineups in all formats Hosts: Adam Howe | Kevin HastingSubscribe: Apple | Spotify | Amazon | YouTube | RSSJoin: PL+ | PL ProProud member of the Pitcher List Podcast Network Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    1 hr and 24 mins
  • OTW 248 - FAAB #2; March 29, 2026
    Mar 29 2026
    On The Wire - Opening weekend chaos fuels the first true FAAB run of the season, with injuries, surprise playing time, and bullpen shakeups creating immediate waiver opportunities. Key targets across power, speed, and pitching are discussed, along with early-season strategy on how aggressive to be 1. Intro and News (0:00) Opening Day scheduling frustrations and early-season quirks FAAB season officially beginsJacob deGrom scratched; Jacob Latz opportunityTanner Bibee shoulder inflammation concernsMickey Moniak IL → impact on Jake McCarthy, Jordan Beck, Brenton DoyleTJ Rumfield early playing time in ColoradoChristopher Morel IL → Griffin Conine, Davidson De Los Santos Milwaukee injuries: Jackson Chourio, Andrew Vaughn Playing time shifts: Garrett Mitchell, Jake Bauers, Sal Frelick, David HamiltonTommy Pham signs with Mets (minor league deal) Rehab updates: Zack Wheeler Bullpen alert: Carlos Estévez struggles → KC closer speculation (Lucas Erceg, John Schreiber) 2. Power Categories (HR, RBI) (20:00) Rhys Hoskins – everyday role in Cleveland, undervalued powerMiguel Andujar – steady playing time in San DiegoMark Vientos – platoon-dependent valueMatt Wallner – power upside if playing time stabilizes 3. Speed Categories (R, SB) (32:00) David Hamilton – elite SB upside with newfound playing timeJake McCarthy – everyday leadoff vs RHPJake Meyers – underrated speed contributorNasim Nuñez – deep league SB target Bryce Matthews – speculative add with 40+ SB upside if role expands 4. Opportunity (AB, AVG) (45:00) Schedule notes: AZ, ATL, NYM, SF with 7-game weeksCasey Schmitt – everyday role + multi-position eligibilityNathan Lukes – hitting near top of TOR lineup vs RHPJoey Loperfido – emerging playing time in Houston Favor hitters with early-week volume advantages 5. Pitching Volume (W, K) (58:00) Two-start targets: Chris BassittZach Eflin Breakout watch: Joe Boyle (improved control) Deep streamers: Davis MartinJustin Verlander (widely available in 12s)Taijuan Walker (risky Coors start) Strategy: balancing early aggression vs ratio protection 6. Pitching Ratios (ERA, WHIP) (1:10:00) Reliever targets for ratio + strikeout boost: Erik Sabrowski – elite stuff, improving control Strategy: Prioritize multi-inning relievers Target teams with heavy bullpen usage Use relievers to stabilize early ratio volatility 7. Closers (Saves) (1:18:00) Philly bullpen uncertainty: Jordan Romano vs alternatives Angels speculation: Reid Detmers long-term closer upside Texas chaos: Robert Garcia, Chris Martin, committee risk Minnesota: Cole Sands emerging option Kansas City: post-Estévez meltdown watchlist 8. Wild Card (Stashes) (1:25:00) Bryce Eldridge – potential early call-upDylan Crews – stash if droppedAlex Freeland – short-term upside with path to more Strategy: prioritize upside over replacement-level veterans early 9. Closing Comments (1:28:00) Stay patient—don’t overreact to small samples Avoid unnecessary drops this early Build long FAAB waterfalls Focus on opportunity + upside without forcing moves Hosts: Adam Howe | Kevin HastingSubscribe: Apple | Spotify | Amazon | YouTube | RSSJoin: PL+ | PL ProProud member of the Pitcher List Podcast Network Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    1 hr and 29 mins
  • OTW 247 - Born To Draft Wild; First FAAB Run
    Mar 22 2026

    Episode Breakdown

    0:00 – Intro, NFBC weekend, and episode setup
    Discussion of draft season activity, NFBC Main Event context, and defining “wild card” players in fantasy baseball drafts.

    Players discussed: none

    8:00 – FAAB rules, roster strategy, and stashing players
    Breakdown of NFBC rules around undrafted players, debut timelines, and why early FAAB periods are critical for securing upside.

    Players discussed: Jared Jones, Zack Wheeler, Carlos Rodon, Konnor Griffin

    20:00 – Early-season strategy: avoiding zeros and bullpen value
    Exploration of why avoiding zeroes in lineups is critical early in the season and how speculative relievers can provide value in saves and ratios.

    Players discussed: Brad Keller, Jeremiah Estrada, Garrett Clevenger, Taylor Rogers, JoJo Romero

    32:00 – ASK Game (Rookie Catchers)
    Evaluation of rookie catchers based on playing time, opportunity, and stash viability.

    Players discussed: Harry Ford, Carter Jensen, Samuel Basallo, Freddy Fermin, Keibert Ruiz

    45:00 – ASK Game (Rookie Outfielders)
    Breakdown of rookie outfielders with uncertain roles but significant upside.

    Players discussed: Justin Crawford, Carson Benge, Dylan Beavers, Johan Rojas, Luis Robert Jr., Juan Soto, Mark Vientos, Brett Baty, Jorge Polanco, Mike Tauchman, Tyrone Taylor, Colton Cowser, Tyler O’Neill, Taylor Ward

    1:02:00 – ASK Game (Rookie Starting Pitchers)
    Discussion of stash-worthy rookie pitchers, weighing early-season opportunity versus long-term upside.

    Players discussed: A.J. Blubaugh, Robbie Snelling, J.R. Ritchie, Konnor Griffin, Sal Stewart

    1:15:00 – Wild card stashes and speculative adds
    Identification of players worth stashing or adding before they become high-demand FAAB targets.

    Players discussed: Anthony Volpe, Kirby Yates, Reid Detmers, Robert Stephenson

    1:24:00 – Final strategy thoughts and roster construction
    Summary of key takeaways on managing stash spots, balancing risk, and optimizing roster flexibility heading into Opening Day.

    Hosts: Adam Howe | Kevin Hasting

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    1 hr and 30 mins
  • OTW 246 - Shopping At The Save-A-Lot; Drafting Saves
    Mar 8 2026
    On The Wire - In this episode of On The Wire, hosts Kevin Hasting and I break down the Saves category and how to approach closers in 2026 fantasy baseball drafts. We discuss draft strategy, bullpen volatility, and how to identify which closers are worth paying for versus targeting value later in drafts. We also look at several bullpens that could produce surprise saves and highlight relievers who could emerge during the season. Whether you prefer paying up for elite closers or waiting and building a bullpen through value picks and waiver wire churn, this episode will help you navigate one of fantasy baseball’s most unpredictable categories. Episode Breakdown 0:00 – Intro and episode overview We open the show discussing the volatility of the saves category and why bullpen roles change so frequently in fantasy baseball. Players discussed: Edwin Diaz, Devin Williams, Josh Hader 3:00 – Draft philosophy for saves Kevin and Adam discuss whether fantasy managers should draft elite closers early or take a “save-a-lot” approach by targeting multiple value arms later in drafts. Players discussed: Edwin Diaz, Devin Williams, Josh Hader, Mason Miller, Ryan Helsley 11:30 – The elite closer tier Discussion of the top-tier closers who provide strong strikeout rates, stable roles, and league-leading save potential. Players discussed: Edwin Diaz, Devin Williams, Josh Hader, Ryan Helsley, Mason Miller, Félix Bautista 23:00 – Mid-tier closers with strong job security Relievers who may not go in the early rounds but still project to deliver reliable saves totals with strong skills. Players discussed: Tanner Scott, Robert Suarez, Kenley Jansen, David Bednar, Yohan Duran 36:30 – Riskier closers and uncertain bullpens Teams where the closer role could shift during the season and relievers whose job security may not be stable. Players discussed: Luke Weaver, Andrew Kittredge, Jeremiah Estrada, Matt Brash, Cade Smith 50:00 – Late-round saves targets Relievers going later in drafts who could still provide meaningful saves or emerge as their team’s closer. Players discussed: Matt Brash, Hunter Gaddis, Cade Smith, Garrett Whitlock 1:02:00 – Speculative relievers and potential breakout arms Setup men and high-skill bullpen arms who could move into the closer role if situations change. Players discussed: Jeremiah Estrada, Dylan Lee, Aroldis Chapman, Matt Brash, Hunter Gaddis 1:11:30 – Final saves strategy thoughts We wrap up with key takeaways for approaching the saves category and how to manage bullpen volatility during the fantasy season. Players discussed: Edwin Diaz, Devin Williams, Ryan Helsley, Mason Miller, Tanner Scott Join Our Discord & Support The Show: PL+ | PL Pro - Get 15% off Yearly with code PODCAST Proud member of the Pitcher List Fantasy Baseball Podcast Network Hosts: Adam Howe | Kevin HastingSubscribe: Apple | Spotify | Amazon | YouTube | RSSJoin: PL+ | PL ProProud member of the Pitcher List Podcast Network Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    1 hr and 15 mins
  • OTW 245 - Targeting Ratios; Drafting ERA and WHIP
    Mar 1 2026
    On The Wire - Adam and Kevin continue their 2026 fantasy baseball category preview series with a deep dive into ERA and WHIP, examining how fantasy managers should approach ratio protection in modern drafts. The discussion covers early-round aces, workload considerations, command-driven breakouts, and how to balance strikeout upside with ratio stability. They also explore how bullpen arms, mid-rotation starters, and late-round targets can quietly influence ratio outcomes over a full season. Episode Topics and Timestamps 0:00 – Intro and ratio category overview How ERA and WHIP differ from counting stats, why ratios are often won or lost early in drafts, and the importance of minimizing volatility. 6:30 – Elite ace foundations Players discussed:Gerrit Cole, Corbin Burnes, Zack Wheeler, Spencer Strider, George Kirby Discussion focuses on command profiles, workload reliability, and which aces provide the strongest WHIP floors entering 2026 drafts. 20:00 – Strikeout aces vs ratio risk Players discussed:Dylan Cease, Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, Pablo López Adam and Kevin debate pitchers with elite strikeout upside but varying WHIP and ERA volatility, and when risk becomes acceptable depending on roster construction. 34:00 – Mid-round ratio stabilizers Players discussed:Logan Webb, Framber Valdez, Joe Ryan, Sonny Gray, Justin Steele Focus on pitchers who may lack elite strikeout totals but consistently support strong ratios through command, ground balls, or efficiency. 48:00 – Breakout candidates and skills growth Players discussed:Grayson Rodriguez, Bryan Woo, Tanner Bibee, Cole Ragans Evaluation of pitchers showing improving command metrics, pitch mix development, and potential ERA/WHIP growth entering 2026. 59:00 – Bullpen impact on ratios Players discussed:Andrés Muñoz, Devin Williams, Emmanuel Clase, A.J. Puk Discussion on using elite relievers to stabilize ratios, protect WHIP, and offset volatile starting pitchers. 1:07:00 – Draft strategy recap and closing thoughts Key takeaways include building a ratio foundation early, avoiding stacking high-WHIP arms, and strategically mixing innings volume with efficiency-focused pitchers. Join Our Discord & Support The Show: PL+ | PL Pro - Get 15% off Yearly with code PODCAST Proud member of the Pitcher List Fantasy Baseball Podcast Network Hosts: Adam Howe | Kevin HastingSubscribe: Apple | Spotify | Amazon | YouTube | RSSJoin: PL+ | PL ProProud member of the Pitcher List Podcast Network Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • OTW 244 - Chasing Wins (and K's); Drafting Wins and Strikeouts
    Mar 1 2026

    On The Wire - Adam Howe and Kevin Hasting continue their 2026 fantasy baseball draft preview series by shifting focus to pitching volume categories — Wins and Strikeouts.

    The discussion centers on why fantasy managers must actively chase volume, how innings pitched drive both categories, and which late-round starters and speculative arms can help managers compete without paying early-round pitching prices. The hosts also explore streaming strategy, team context, bullpen support, and how draft construction impacts in-season flexibility.

    Below is a breakdown of the episode with estimated timestamps and players discussed.

    00:00 – 09:00 | Intro + Draft Season Philosophy

    Topics

    Draft season approach and league activity

    Why Wins remain a category you must intentionally target

    Relationship between innings pitched, team quality, and fantasy success

    Players Mentioned

    Tarik Skubal

    Paul Skenes

    Garrett Crochet

    09:00 – 22:00 | Why Volume Matters for Wins & Strikeouts

    Topics

    Correlation between workload and strikeouts

    Importance of pitching deep into games

    Team offense and bullpen effects on wins

    Drafting SP tiers vs elite aces

    Players Mentioned

    Yusei Kikuchi

    José Soriano

    Reid Detmers

    Luis Severino

    Mitch Keller

    Brandon Pfaadt

    22:00 – 38:00 | Mid-Round Targets for Strikeout Volume

    Topics

    Targeting pitchers projected for stable rotation roles

    Using projections vs role certainty

    Drafting innings over pure ratios in this build

    Players Mentioned

    David Peterson

    Clay Holmes

    Will Warren

    38:00 – 52:00 | Late-Round Wins & Strikeout Targets

    Topics

    Endgame starters who stick in rotations

    Opportunity-driven pitching value

    Accepting ratio risk when chasing volume

    Players Mentioned

    Will Warren

    David Peterson

    Cade Cavalli

    52:00 – 1:05:00 | Streaming Strategy & Roster Management

    Topics

    Streaming pitchers to capture breakout arms early

    Building ratio cushions to allow aggressive streaming

    Managing roster churn early in season

    Players Mentioned

    Justin Verlander

    Seth Lugo

    Michael Wacha

    1:05:00 – 1:11:29 | Final Targets + Draft Takeaways

    Topics

    Early-season matchup plays

    Why reserve-round pitchers matter

    Maximizing roster flexibility for volume accumulation

    Players Mentioned

    Cade Cavalli

    Justin Verlander

    Hosts: Adam Howe | Kevin Hasting

    Subscribe: Apple | Spotify | Amazon | YouTube | RSS

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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • OTW 243 - Opportunity is Knocking; Drafting AVG and Playing Time
    Feb 15 2026

    On The Wire - Adam and Kevin continue their 2026 fantasy baseball draft prep with a deep dive into the batting average category and how it interacts with roster construction. They discuss stabilizers versus risk bats, early-round foundations, and where drafters can find hidden average upside without sacrificing power or speed.

    The episode focuses on balancing category floors with ceiling plays, identifying players who can buoy team batting average, and highlighting potential landmines that could drag teams down in 2026 drafts.

    0:00 – Intro and category framing
    Overview of batting average landscape in 2026 drafts, league-wide trends, and how average scarcity shapes roster construction.

    8:00 – Early-round batting average anchors
    Players discussed: Luis Arraez, Freddie Freeman, Juan Soto, Bobby Witt Jr., Mookie Betts, Julio Rodríguez

    Discussion centers on foundational hitters who provide strong average without sacrificing counting stats, and how early picks set the tone for category flexibility later in drafts.

    23:00 – Power bats with average risk
    Players discussed: Kyle Schwarber, Matt Olson, Pete Alonso, Elly De La Cruz, Oneil Cruz

    Conversation around batting average volatility, strikeout rate concerns, and how much risk managers can absorb depending on early roster builds.

    40:00 – Mid-round average stabilizers
    Players discussed: Steven Kwan, Nico Hoerner, Bryson Stott, Jeff McNeil, Xander Bogaerts

    Focus on contact skills, lineup role, and identifying players who can quietly support average while contributing across categories.

    58:00 – Bounce-back and growth candidates
    Players discussed: CJ Abrams, Corbin Carroll, Fernando Tatis Jr., Bo Bichette

    Evaluating BABIP regression, age curves, and approach adjustments that could lead to batting average improvements in 2026.

    1:10:00 – Late-round average targets and fades
    Players discussed: Luis Rengifo, Thairo Estrada, Brice Turang, Jake McCarthy

    How to approach batting average late in drafts, when to chase category protection, and when to accept volatility.

    1:20:00 – Draft strategy recap and closing thoughts
    Key takeaways on balancing floor and ceiling in batting average builds, understanding roster synergy, and planning category targets before draft day.

    Hosts: Adam Howe | Kevin Hasting

    Subscribe: Apple | Spotify | Amazon | YouTube | RSS

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    Proud member of the Pitcher List Podcast Network


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    1 hr and 26 mins