Jays-Rays Preview + Happy Paul Skenes Day

Jays and White Sox Swap Backstops: Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker discuss the Blue Jays’ catching depth after dealing Reese McGuire to Chicago for Zack Collins, with Danny Jansen and Alejandro Kirk left to handle Blue Jays pitchers (0:53). Next, Sportsnet’s Dan Shulman weighs-in on the McGuire-Collins deal, the Blue Jays’ tough schedule to start the season with 30 games in 31 days, Vladimir Guerrero Jr’s love for running the bases, and the José Ramirez rumours that won’t go away (21:20). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

Jim Kaat & Breaking Down Batting Orders: Blair and Barker talk about how they would like to see the Blue Jays batting order shake out, specifically where Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette should slot in, and compare it to how the Nationals are utilizing their young superstar Juan Soto (1:45). Afterwards, MLB broadcaster and 2022 Hall of Fame Inductee Jim Kaat discusses his new book Good As Gold and how the sport has evolved over his eight different decades in the game (25:21). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

Divisional Rival Check-in w/ Lou Merloni: Sportsnet’s Shi Davidi talks about the Blue Jays’ strategy when it comes to hitting and what Hunter Mense and Dave Hudgens provide in their current roles, before discussing how the team will deal with sky-high expectations from media both north and south of the border, and if there has been any talk about extensions for Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette (10:45). Afterwards, former MLB infielder and WEEI host Lou Merloni previews the season of the division rival Boston Red Sox who added shortstop Trevor Story but will be missing Chris Sale to start the year (29:07). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

Biggio's Bounce Back in 2022: Jeff and Kevin examine the Blue Jays Opening Day-like lineup against the Tigers in Grapefruit League play (0:37). 2B Cavan Biggio joins the guys to discuss getting regular reps at second base this season, his ability to play all over the diamond, being able to focus on his hitting this spring, and learning and bouncing back from a tough 2021 campaign (8:03). Later, Blue Jays Central analyst Joe Siddall shares his outlook on the Blue Jays after covering the team in Florida and the Tigers as a team on the rise in the AL (33:09). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

Catching up with Kevin Smith + Have Your Say!: Former Blue Jays infielder Kevin Smith joins the guys to reflect on his time with the organization and discuss his role with the Athletics after being traded to the team for Matt Chapman (3:17). Later in the hour, Jeff and Kevin take calls on the Jays' batting order, the roster’s depth being tested with injuries, and the bullpen (30:27). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

45 min listen

Assessing the Jays at the 10-Game Mark with Dan Shulman: Dan Shulman shares his thoughts on the Blue Jays leading the division despite a few rough outings from the starting pitching, the team’s improved bullpen, how Alek Manoah compares to different Jays starters of the past, and his broadcast partner Buck Martinez (2:37). Afterwards, Red Sox TV analyst Tony Massarotti talks about Boston dealing with a current COVID-19 situation within their organization, how the team will get by without James Paxton and Chris Sale in their rotation, and if the contract statuses of Rafael Devers and Xander Bogaerts will be distractions for the organization going forward (28:37). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

No Way José: Ramírez Re-Signs in Cleveland: Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker open by discussing the day’s breaking news: star infielder (and rumoured Blue Jays trade target) José Ramírez has re-signed with the Cleveland Guardians on a new 5-year deal. Next, Buffalo Bisons manager Casey Candaele joins the show following his club’s 3-2 win in their home opener to talk about this year’s squad and the potential of prospects like Gabriel Moreno and Otto Lopez (18:43). Afterwards, Chris Rose of “The Chris Rose Rotation” shares his thoughts on the Ramírez deal and why he thought the Padres were a potential destination for the slugger before assessing the AL East and if the Blue Jays can meet expectations as the current favourites to win the division (35:13). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

Live from Rogers Centre, It's Opening Day!: Happy Opening Day! Blair and Barker are live from Rogers Centre as the Blue Jays get set to take on the Texas Rangers, and are joined off the hop by Dan Shulman to chat about the atmosphere at the ballpark, how a crowd can impact play-by-play, Bo and Vlad Jr. being "young veterans", reasonable expectations for Alek Manoah, Danny Jansen and Cavan Biggio, the acquisition of Bradley Zimmer, how key a healthy George Springer and Jordan Romano will be to the team's success, how aggressive Charlie Montoyo might be, and how the Jays might use PitchCom (2:22). Next, Rangers manager Chris Woodward stops by to discuss the makeup of his group after a busy offseason, if chemistry is an issue, what Corey Seager brings to the club, and his experiences so far with PitchCom (30:47). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

Where Should Vlad Jr. Hit in the Order? & Twins GM Thad Levine: Blair and Barker open up the phone lines on where Vladimir Guerrero Jr. should hit in the order and a plethora of Jays-related topics, and react to the news that Nate Pearson will be out “for awhile” according to Charlie Montoyo with a bout of mononucleosis (3:28). Later, Minnesota Twins VP and GM Thad Levine discusses his team’s busy off-season, surprising the baseball world after signing prized free-agent shortstop Carlos Correa, and revisits the Jose Berrios trade with Toronto (36:54). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

At the Plate w/ Jays Assistant Hitting Coach Hunter Mense: The MLB Season starts today! Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker open the show with their American League predictions for the 2022 season and who they think will meet in the World Series (0:24). Next, Hunter Mense, Blue Jays assistant hitting coach and minor league hitting coordinator, talks about working with the Blue Jays hitters this Spring, Lourdes Gurriel Jr’s potential this year, and the emergence of Blue Jays hitters from their time in the minors to the big leagues (26:56). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

Alex Anthopoulos & Building the Jays' Bullpen w/ Buck Martinez: Jeff and Kevin examine the latest around Spring Training including how their views on the Blue Jays bullpen, Tim Mayza’s place in it, and the “cuts” made at the Blue Jays’ major-league camp including top prospects Gabriel Moreno and Orelvis Martinez (0:54). Next Buck Martinez reflects on his time as a manager and the conversations he had with players when they didn’t crack the roster, how he sees the bullpen being built, and what he needs to see from the Blue Jays in their final seven Grapefruit League games (19:12). To wrap, Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos then phones in to chat about how spring training has been thus far, Freddie Freeman not returning to the team, why Kenley Jansen made sense for Atlanta, the team's pursuit of a second-straight World Series, and the impact the DH will have in the NL (37:05). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the by Blair & Barker

54 min listen

Carlos Baerga Joins + Back Leg Bits Extended Cut: Jeff and Kevin re-visit Yusei Kikuchi’s last start against Boston, the confidence he can gain from it, and pitching coach Pete Walker working with him as the newest member of the rotation (09:34). They also assess how Alejandro Kirk has handled the pitching staff after taking over for Danny Jansen behind the plate. Later on, three-time All-Star and MLB insider Carlos Baerga talks about what MLB is doing to speed up the game, Miguel Cabrera’s pursuit of 3000 hits, if there will ever be another person to accomplish the feat, and the art of switch-hitting (26:16). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

Carlos Peña: Bullish on The Blue Jays: With Opening Day approaching, MLB Network analyst Carlos Peña explains why he’s bullish on the Blue Jays dating back to last season, where he would slot Vlad Jr. in the batting order, and why four teams in the AL East can all make the postseason (0:23). Next, Ben Wagner, the radio voice of the Blue Jays checks-in with his final thoughts on the roster that made it north (17:03). To conclude the show, Blair & Barker share their 2022 predictions for the National League and end with the latest edition of “Barker’s Back Leg Bits” (33:53). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

Miguel Cabrera: Mr. 3000: Jeff and Kevin welcome Former Marlins President David Samson to the show to discuss Miguel Cabrera reaching 3000 hits, how he grew into one of the sport’s best hitters, why they had to trade him to the Tigers, and who else was involved in the talks (02:23). Former Red Sox infielder Lou Merloni previews the upcoming Red Sox-Blue Jays series and how Boston will adjust with unvaccinated players like Tanner Houck unable to make the trip (29:44). Barker’s Back Leg Bits looks at the possibility of an automatic strike and ball-calling system after a tough game for home plate umpire Angel Hernandez on Sunday Night Baseball (39:36). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

47 min listen

Tip Your Cap to Vladdy: Blair and Barker open with a chat about the Blue Jays' 6-4 win over the Yankees on Wednesday night, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s three-home run performance (two of which came after his hand was stepped on and bloodied), Teoscar Hernandez leaving the game with left side discomfort, and how the team might make up for the potential loss of the outfielder (038). Afterwards, the guys take your calls on the bullpen, the Tapia-Grichuk trade, Alejandro Kirk, and more (23:30). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

Managing Injuries with Dan O'Dowd + Mariners SP Matt Brash: MLB Network analyst and former Rockies GM Dan O’Dowd shares a front-office perspective on how to handle injuries early in the season, if Danny Jansen’s IL stint might force the Blue Jays to call up Gabriel Moreno, and his thoughts on Clayton Kershaw being pulled mid-perfect game (3:10). To wrap, Seattle Mariners starter and Kingston, ON native Matt Brash discusses making his MLB debut against the White Sox and winning a rotation spot out of Spring Training (27:56). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

Changing Speeds with Alek Manoah: Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker recap the Blue Jays’ 4-0 loss to the Yankees, specifically Yusei Kikuchi’s outing where his velocity was up but only lasted 3.1 innings (0:40). The guys also examine the Blue Jays catching depth without Danny Jansen and how Alejandro Kirk will handle the pitching staff for an extended time with crucial matchups against the Red Sox and Astros approaching on the schedule (10:30). Later, Blue Jays pitcher Alek Manoah re-visits his impressive start in the opener of the Yankees series, his approach on the mound, and what Kevin Gausman has taught him since joining the Blue Jays (31:19). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

Greg Bird Flies the Coop: Blair and Barker open with a chat about Greg Bird exercising his release from the Blue Jays after an impressive camp and his decision to re-sign with the division rival New York Yankees, Gōsuke Katō making the big-league team, Andrew Vasquez being sent to the minors, and more (0:27). Afterwards, Pat Tabler gives his thoughts on the Bird move, before evaluating the Jays' batting order and explaining his confidence level in Biggio-Espinal at second base and the team’s swing and miss stuff in the bullpen (22:16). To wrap, Rays TV analyst and former MLB pitcher Brian Anderson discusses the use of the PitchCom technology used by pitchers and catchers, Tampa Bay trading away Austin Meadows, and previews the Rays’ outlook for the 2022 season (37:18). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

Breaking Down Opening Weekend & Inside Danny Jansen's Strong Start: The Blue Jays are 2-1 to start the season after winning their opening home stand against Texas and Blair and Barker break it all down! Jeff and Kevin recap the series, notably the performances from Jose Berrios, Hyun-jin Ryu, the bullpen, and missing an arm like Nate Pearson to pitch a few innings in relief (2:50) Next, Blue Jays Central’s Joe Siddall comments on Danny Jansen’s two home runs, Berrios’ outing, Matt Chapman making adjustments at the plate, and what Bradley Zimmer brings to the Blue Jays lineup after getting called up (28:04). To end the hour, Barker describes what he’s seeing out of Jansen and why he is seeing positive results early at the plate (41:41). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

Inside the Dugout with Charlie Montoyo & John Schneider: Jeff & Kevin are joined by Toronto Blue Jays Bench Coach John Schneider to help break down the new PitchCom system introduced this season, before chatting about the feeling around the team and the atmosphere surrounding Opening Day in Toronto (03:00). Then Blair & Barker share their thoughts on the Vladdy-Bo experience and the latest Rogers Centre face-lift, take in some pre-game defensive drills, and discuss Matt Chapman's impact on the left side of the infield (10:51). Finally, Manager of the Blue Jays Charlie Montoyo stops by and takes a moment to reflect on what Opening Night means to help, before shifting his attention to his team to chat about their athleticism on the bases and how the bullpen has shaped up this off-season (26:23). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

Jays Fly Home After a 4-2 Road Trip: Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker recap a successful road trip for the Blue Jays, despite losing the final game 8-7 to the Houston Astros, and examine how the bullpen has been a catalyst for the team’s success, particularly Yimi Garcia. Afterwards, Blue Jays Central’s Joe Siddall shares his thoughts on Kikuchi’s propensity for throwing the cutter, what he needs to do in his next start, and Bo Bichette’s defence (30:46). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

52 min listen

Dexter Fowler: The Newest Blue Jay?: Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker assess the teams in the AL East, before reacting to the breaking news that free agent outfielder Dexter Fowler has a nameplate in the Blue Jays clubhouse and will presumably be joining the team (2:44). Later on, Jeff and Kevin welcome Yankees broadcaster Suzyn Waldman to the show to discuss Greg Bird’s chances at making the Blue Jays opening day roster, Josh Donaldson’s early impressions amongst his teammates, what Aaron Judge’s next contract could look like and more (20:35). To end the show, the guys examine the Blue Jays' catching depth with Danny Jansen, Reese McGuire, and Alejandro Kirk behind the plate (40:20). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

Josh Donaldson & Bullpens with Jeff Nelson: Four-time World Series champion Jeff Nelson discusses the makeup of the Yankees' bullpen, the importance of relief pitchers when starters aren’t completely stretched out, and how he views the Blue Jays rotation and they stack up in the AL East (8:04). Following another edition of “Barker’s Back Leg Bits” (28:06), 2015 American League MVP Josh Donaldson calls-in to discuss how he’s fitting in with the New York Yankees following the offseason trade with the Twins (37:24). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

Ryu Hurt, Manoah Shines, and Vlad & Bo Takeaways: Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker recap the Blue Jays weekend at Rogers Centre where they escaped with a series win taking two of three against the Oakland A’s (2:22). In particular, the guys examine what they’re seeing from Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette at the plate since Teoscar Hernandez hit the IL and Alek Manoah’s performance on the mound in Sunday’s win. Later they open up the phone lines and take calls discussing concerns with Hyun-jin Ryu in the early going, the Yankees standing in the AL East, and umpiring in the game after a questionable performance from home plate umpire Jeff Nelson in Saturday’s TOR-OAK game (26:08). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

51 min listen

The Blue Jays Are Bronx Bound: ESPN’s Marly Rivera previews the upcoming Yankees-Blue Jays series and discusses Aaron Judge and the Yankees unable to come to a long-term agreement and how she sees the AL East shaking out with the Toronto, Tampa Bay, New York, and Boston all expected to challenge for the postseason (4:06). To wrap, MLB Network Radio Host and Texas Rangers analyst CJ Nitkowski talks about the hype surrounding the Blue Jays after watching them first-hand over the weekend (25:15). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

Jackie Robinson Reflections with Bob Kendrick: Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker recap the Blue Jays 3-0 loss and series split against the Yankees, including the game’s ending with closer Aroldis Chapman being pulled and Toronto leaving the bases loaded with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. on deck and Kevin Gausman’s second start (1:35). Afterwards, Blue Jays radio announcer Ben Wagner shares his thoughts on the team after one week of regular season play and how he would tweak the lineup with injuries to Danny Jansen and Teoscar Hernandez (26:09). Later, Bob Kendrick, President of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, discusses the importance of Jackie Robinson Day on the 75th anniversary of him breaking baseball's colour barrier (40:01). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

54 min listen

Next Level Talent & Tech with Doug Glanville: Blair and Barker go around the majors with ESPN and Marquee Sports Network’s Doug Glanville who discusses how he views the AL East, teams experimenting with PitchCom technology in the early going, Cubs’ rookie Seiya Suzuki, and more (0:56). To wrap, Jeff and Kevin touch on the pitching matchups for the remainder of the Jays-Yankees series, how the Blue Jays should handle Danny Jansen, some injury news across the majors, how teams may be monitoring players after a shortened spring, and the Jays' shift rate (29:37 ) The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

Zack Attacks Baseballs & Tim Kurkjian: Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker speak with Blue Jays DH/catcher Zack Collins after a successful series against the Oakland A’s and his HR off Nathan Eovaldi Tuesday night at Fenway Park. Collins talks about his experience with the club after coming over from the White Sox, working with the coaching staff, and embracing the hitch in his swing (1:38) . To finish, Hall of Fame writer and broadcaster Tim Kurkijan joins the guys with his early season thoughts and if anything can be learned from small sample sizes this month (24:16). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

A Gausman Gem & Springer Dinger: Jeff and Kevin recap the Blue Jays’ thrilling 6-5 comeback win vs. the Red Sox at Rogers Centre. The guys focus in on George Springer’s big game and game-tying home run, his flair for the dramatic, Raimel Tapia’s at-bat in extra innings to win it, and Kevin Gausman’s second consecutive strong start against Boston. Afterwards, MLB Network’s Bill Ripken joins the guys to share his perspective on the game and how good hitters like Bo Bichette work out of slumps (31:21). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

‘Cowboy Joe’ Joins the Show: Joe West, retired MLB umpire and host of 5460: The Joe West Podcast, joined Jeff and Kevin to reflect on his 45-year career (03:33). “Cowboy Joe” discussed why players decide their own strike zone, the Dan Bellino-Madison Bumgarner incident, why it’s easier to call balls and strikes with high-velocity pitchers, and which starting pitchers he enjoyed being behind the plate for the most. Later, the guys head into the weekend with another edition of ‘Barker’s Back Leg Bits’ (43:02)! The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

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Jays-Rays Preview + Happy Paul Skenes Day

Jays-Rays Preview + Happy Paul Skenes Day

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