I enjoyed the podcast, but there is a theme that has been recurring across the local radio lately and was again noted on the podcast. I really question how much things like "fire" and "passion' really make a difference at the major league level. If this team was WINNING and not showing any emotion, nobody would be second guessing that at all. If the team was producing, nobody would even care. I don't think anybody wants to fail under the national spotlight. I don't know if throwing stuff around is the right attitude to take. If you had a regular job, you'd be asked to take anger management training.
I don't think the fact that this group of guys is less outspoken necessarily effects their performance on the field. If you look back at world series champions, or even champions of any sport, you're going to find a mix of all types of personalities. The Cardinals from 2011, they certainly weren't an outspoken bunch. They weren't even a top team throughout most of that season.
I feel like fans are trying hard to look for something to point to to explain why this team is underperforming. Maybe guys are playing hurt again. I don't know what the reason is. You have to think they'll turn it around though.