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At The Letters

At The Letters

310 episodes — Page 5 of 7

A Game-Changer Arrives At Third

A new third baseman changes the dynamic on the Blue Jays’ infield. Plus: Arden’s observations from Dunedin, Fla., what’s next for the Blue Jays after trading for Matt Chapman (01:23) and a look at some spring position battles in Jays camp (40:58).This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling.Contact us: [email protected] Credits: MLB and Sportsnet.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.

Mar 23, 202252 min

Palm Trees And Transactions

Baseball is back and the Blue Jays are already making moves. First, a look at how the new CBA may impact the Jays (13:16). Then, Arden and Ben look at the addition of Yusei Kikuchi (29:03), anticipate what’s next for the Toronto front office (36:17) and discuss the return of Josh Donaldson to the AL East (54:43).This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling.Contact us: [email protected] 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.

Mar 15, 20221h 8m

Looking Beyond The Lockout

The new CBA will eventually have some major implications for the Blue Jays (18:00). Plus, Arden and Ben wonder how teams should now be strategizing (33:00), anticipate a wild post-lockout week and explore a parallel between Juan Soto and Vlad Jr. (50:00).This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling.Contact us: [email protected] 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.

Feb 24, 20221h 4m

What To Expect From Jays’ Best Prospects

With spring training likely to be delayed, Ben and Arden turn their attention to the Blue Jays’ top prospects. This week Ben Badler of Baseball America joins ATL to discuss Gabriel Moreno (10:57), Jordan Groshans (28:29), Orelvis Martinez (21:47) and some lesser-known minor-leaguers in the Jays’ system (50:29). This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben Nicholson-Smith.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.

Feb 11, 202255 min

Extending, Evolving, Bargaining

Shi Davidi joins Arden and Ben for a wide-ranging discussion about the latest off-field developments in MLB. First, a look at possible extensions for Vlad and Bo (1:00) followed by a discussion about Jaime Vieira, the Blue Jays’ first female coach (29:10), and a look at how CBA talks may impact the Jays (47:15).This episode is produced and sound engineered by Amil Delic, mixed by Mike Rogerson, and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling.Contact us: [email protected] 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.

Jan 28, 20221h 4m

Your Questions, Our Answers

What’s a realistic expectation for Vlad Jr. in 2022 (9:38)? What other Jays could be in line for big extensions(1:01:52)? And how to make sense of that Freddie Freeman talk (24:32)? Ben and Arden take a wide assortment of questions in this holiday mailbag edition of At the Letters.This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben Nicholson-Smith.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.

Dec 23, 20211h 9m

A Flurry, Then a Freeze

First, a wild week of activity … and then a lockout (4:00). Arden and Ben break down the Blue Jays’ deal with Kevin Gausman (13:00) discuss the departure of Robbie Ray (19:00) and preview next steps as the baseball industry enters a lockout (40:20).This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan, and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling.Watch the podcast on YouTubeThe 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.

Dec 3, 20211h 0m

The Arms Race Begins

The Blue Jays are spending big to keep Jose Berrios – so what does this seven-year deal mean (1:00)? Plus, Arden and Ben break down the Blue Jays’ place in the starting pitching market (25:30), credit Robbie Ray for a Cy Young season (38:00) and discuss some challenges of awards voting (46:00).This episode is produced and sound engineered by Andrew Norton and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben Nicholson-Smith.Audio Credits: Blue Jays Radio Network, MLB Network and Sportsnet.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.

Nov 19, 202149 min

Ep 101From The 2021 GM Meetings

The Blue Jays are keeping their options open, but the market’s actually moving better than expected. So what happens from here? Ben joins Arden from the GM Meetings to talk Steven Matz, Scott Boras and the Jays’ potential targets. This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling. Contact us: [email protected] 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.

Nov 11, 202148 min

Ep 100At The Rogers Centre With Ross Atkins

It’s off-season mode for the Blue Jays, and who better to set it all up than GM Ross Atkins? This week, Atkins joins ATL for a conversation on some of the team’s biggest stars (05:21), what he learned last winter (10:20) and what’s next this off-season (23:19). This episode is produced and sound engineered by Amil Delic, mixed by Christian Ryan, and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling. Contact us: [email protected] 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

Nov 4, 202144 min

Ep 99Our 2021 Over/Unders

When it all began, our over/unders featured the likes of Rowdy Tellez, T.J. Zeuch and Tanner Roark. Yet as always, the 2021 season unfolded in unpredictable fashion. This week, Arden and Ben look back on it all with their annual over/under review. This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling.Contact us: [email protected] Audio Credits: Sportsnet and Sportsnet 590 The FAN. 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

Oct 28, 20211h 0m

Ep 98Brainstorming Some Off-Season Moves

Now, it’s time to look ahead. Arden and Ben discuss the Blue Jays’ upcoming spending decisions (04:15) and the challenge of building around the right long-term players (14:19). Plus, a discussion about qualifying offers (31:14) and going granular on some possible trade talks (39:51). This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling. Contact us: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Oct 22, 202159 min

Ep 97Where Do We Go From Here?

Just like that, the Jays’ season is over, but there’s a lot to make sense when it comes to the 2021 team, some of it impressive (00:38) and some of it frustrating (14:04). Plus, Arden and Ben discuss the Jays’ biggest off-season needs (39:34) and where Robbie Ray and Marcus Semien may fit in their plans (51:35). This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling. Contact us: [email protected] Audio Credits: Sportsnet 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

Oct 6, 202159 min

Ep 96Like There’s No Tomorrow

After two huge games against the Yankees (6:47) the Blue Jays have reason to believe in Hyun-Jin Ryu (10:11) and optimism heading into the final few days of the season (20:19). Plus, Arden and Ben discuss potential wild-card game pitchers (24:13), and look ahead at some of the big decisions the Jays will soon face (27:11). This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling.Contact us: [email protected] Audio Credits: Sportsnet 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.

Sep 30, 202149 min

Ep 95The Stretch Run ft. Josh Donaldson

The Blue Jays are in playoff position – barely. Ben and guest host Shi Davidi discuss expectations for Hyun Jin Ryu (02:25) and what it’s like covering champagne celebrations (24:45). Plus, an interview with Josh Donaldson (31:50), a discussion about the AL MVP race (48:30) and some love for the RBI (53:10). This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Shi Davidi. Contact us: [email protected] Audio Credits: Sportsnet 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.

Sep 22, 20211h 5m

Ep 94Collision Course

Another incredible week for the Blue Jays (00:27) sets up some interesting decisions on the pitching staff (11:32). Plus, Arden and Ben discuss potential wild-card game opponents (32:53), the unpredictability of October (39:15) and the possibility of play-in games (46:32). This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben Nicholson-Smith.Contact us: [email protected] Audio Credits: Sportsnet 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.

Sep 17, 202156 min

Ep 93Watch out for the Blue Jays

Suddenly the Blue Jays are unstoppable (1:37). Arden and Ben break down the team’s recent hot streak (11:46), marvel at their starting rotation (23:14) and investigate some of the remaining questions facing the Jays (32:30). This episode is produced and sound engineered by Andrew Norton and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling. Contact us: [email protected] Audio Credits: Sportsnet The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Sep 10, 202140 min

Ep 92The Final Push

The Blue Jays need a strong final month to make the playoffs (00:30) but they’re still not hitting as well as you’d expect (19:58). Plus, Arden and Ben break down the pros and cons of expanded rosters (25:57), a surprising pitching staff (31:13) and some recent additions to the outfield mix (50:03). This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben Nicholson-Smith. Contact us: [email protected] Audio Credits: Sportsnet 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.

Sep 3, 202157 min

Ep 91It’s Slipping Away

The painful losses keep coming for the Blue Jays so Ben and guest host Nick Ashbourne attempt to understand what’s happening (01:37) before having a discussion about blame (18:28). Plus, dream destinations for a home series (25:00), the ups and downs of Kirk (30:24) and a discussion about free agency (42:18). This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith. Contact us: [email protected] Audio Credits: Sportsnet 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.

Aug 26, 202152 min

Ep 90A Trip To Forget

A bad road trip cost the Blue Jays in the standings (00:46) and the bullpen’s just not inspiring much trust (6:18). Arden and Ben break down what it means for the Jays before discussing the implications of the Springer injury (22:46), appreciating Teoscar’s hot streak (33:22) and taking stock of some new arrivals (41:17). This episode is produced and sound engineered by Andrew Norton and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben Nicholson-Smith.Contact us: [email protected] The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Aug 20, 202148 min

Ep 89Feeling Them Good Vibes

What a homestand for the Blue Jays! Not only are the Jays finally enjoying fan support (4:25), a fully healthy George Springer is helping them gain all kinds of ground in the AL standings (18:25). Plus, the guys give credit to Marcus Semien (26:56) and breaking down the pitching staff (36:47). This episode is produced […]

Aug 10, 202152 min

Ep 88Blue Jays Go Bold

Quite a week for the Blue Jays. Not only are they back in Toronto (00:38) but they upgraded their roster at the deadline (05:38) trading top prospects for Jose Berrios. Plus, the guys reveal the winner of the Miller Lite Relief Catcher glove (32:56) and discussing who should play third base (44:24). This episode is […]

Aug 4, 202159 min

Ep 87It’s Crunch Time

The Blue Jays can be an incredibly frustrating team to watch. But there’s a lot of talent here. So with the deadline just days away, where does that leave the front office? This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben Nicholson-Smith. Contact us: [email protected] Audio Credits: Sportsnet. The views and opinions expressed in […]

Jul 27, 202152 min

Ep 86Deadline Decisions

Not only are the Blue Jays coming back to Toronto, but the trade deadline is also just a week away. So what are the Blue Jays’ biggest needs right now? And which players would meet them best? Arden and Ben weigh in on all this and more. This episode is produced and sound engineered by Andrew Norton and […]

Jul 23, 202145 min

Ep 85How the Blue Jays will approach a busy three weeks

The Blue Jays have plenty on their plate this month: MLB’s draft, the trade deadline, a possible move to Toronto, and constant roster decisions as the club tries to keep up in the AL East race. Arden chats with Sportsnet’s Shi Davidi about the various fronts Toronto’s front office is currently working on (1:29). Then […]

Jul 9, 20211h 11m

Ep 84Jays Kick Off Trade Season by Finally Addressing Bullpen

At long last, the Blue Jays acquired relief help. Arden and Ben give their takes on Adam Cimber, Corey Dickerson, and which moves the club should make next. Also, with Alejandro Kirk and Danny Jansen nearing returns, what should the Blue Jays do with the hot-hitting Reese McGuire? This episode is produced and sound engineered […]

Jul 1, 202154 min

Ep 83One month from deadline, Jays build some momentum

Finally, a win streak for the Blue Jays – not that they don’t still need help. Ben and Arden discuss the Jays’ deadline options, give the starting rotation some credit and look at some names to watch in the minors. This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben […]

Jun 25, 202152 min

Ep 82As Vlad mashes, Jays’ bullpen questions persist

Vlad Guerrero Jr. keeps hitting home runs, but the Jays aren’t taking full advantage. Arden and Ben look ahead at possible trade targets for the bullpen and wonder what the Jays can do in the meantime. This episode is produced and sound engineered by Andrew Norton and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben Nicholson-Smith. Submit your questions, […]

Jun 17, 202146 min

Ep 81Thin Bullpen Creates High-Stress Moments for Jays

By now it’s clear: the Blue Jays’ bullpen is an issue. Ben and Arden make sense of the Jays’ existing options and look ahead at possible trades before delving into MLB’s sticky stuff controversy. This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben Nicholson-Smith. Submit your questions, comments, and topic […]

Jun 11, 202156 min

Ep 80What’s in store this summer for the Blue Jays?

The Blue Jays are playing better, which leads to some interesting questions for Arden and Ben. Among them: what are this team’s deadline needs? Where does Manoah fit? And when could the Jays return to Toronto? Music Outro: The Ruddy Ruckus – Hold On My Love Listen to the full track here! This episode is […]

Jun 4, 202147 min

Ep 79After a tough week for Blue Jays, Manoah arrives

What does Alek Manoah’s arrival mean for the Blue Jays? And what do the team’s recent struggles tell us about what they’ll need this summer? Ben and Arden weigh in on that and also break down some key features of this Blue Jays team, from their new “home” in Buffalo to who is making or breaking expectations […]

May 28, 202158 min

Ep 78Jays Playing Well as Manoah Pushes for the Majors

One-quarter of the way through the season, the Blue Jays are in a good spot. Plus, when will Alek Manoah join them? And where would Ben and Arden place Vlad Jr. on their early-season MVP ballots? This episode is produced and sound engineered by Andrew Norton and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben Nicholson-Smith. Audio Credits: 920 […]

May 21, 202136 min

Ep 77Blue Jays Rolling as Offence Starts Picking Up

The Blue Jays are playing well – maybe surprisingly well. Arden and Ben take stock of the Blue Jays and wonder when top prospect Alek Manoah could join the roster. Music Outro: The Backstays – Forever Gold Bricks Listen to their latest album “Tributaries” here! This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted […]

May 14, 202155 min

Ep 76Brendan Gallagher: Canadiens winger & Jays super-fan

First, a check-in on Nate Pearson. Then, Montreal Canadiens winger Brendan Gallagher joins Arden and Ben to talk about his love for the game of baseball, his Jays fandom and handling chirps from opposing fans. This episode is produced and sound engineered by Amil Delic, mixed by Andrew Norton and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling. Audio […]

May 11, 202127 min

Ep 75Injuries Create Intrigue, but Jays Keep Winning

George Springer and Alejandro Kirk are on the injured list, but the Blue Jays are still holding their own. Arden and Ben make sense of the latest around the Blue Jays and wonder which former Jay would help this team the most. Music Outro: Ormiston – Step from the Limelight Check out more of his […]

May 7, 202150 min

Ep 74As Springer Debuts, Vlad Jr.’s Breakout Continues

George Springer is back and Vlad Jr. is breaking out at the plate. What does it all mean? Ben and Arden take stock of the latest with the Jays before discussing some of their favourite players to watch league-wide. Music Outro: Tré Wes – Smell The Roses Listen to more music by Tré Wes here! […]

Apr 29, 202158 min

Ep 73Pitching Keeping Jays Afloat, But Bats Are Needed

How about this for a role reversal? The Blue Jays aren’t hitting but they lead the American League in ERA. Arden and Ben assess some early season performances and discuss the state of the team’s infield defence. Outro Music: Terell Safadi – Made For This Listen to more music by Terell Safadi here! This episode […]

Apr 23, 202153 min

Ep 72Vlad and Bo Helping Blue Jays Overcome Injuries

The injuries keep coming for the Blue Jays, but Vlad and Bo are doing more than their share to help the team compete. Arden and Ben take stock of all things Blue Jays, including the pitching staff and a promising rookie. Outro Music: Art d’Ecco – Head Rush Listen to the track here! This episode […]

Apr 16, 202142 min

Ep 71The Best (And Worst) Of The Blue Jays’ First Week

Some Blue Jays look unbelievable early on, while others are struggling mightily. Arden and Ben attempt to make sense of it all, discuss the Ross Atkins extension, and introduce the ‘Reese McGuire rule’ to ATL. This episode is produced and sound engineered by Matt Collins, and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben Nicholson-Smith. The views and opinions expressed […]

Apr 9, 20211h 3m

Ep 70Annual Over/Unders for the 2021 Blue Jays

How many innings will Pearson pitch? How much WAR will Springer generate? And will we see Manoah in the majors? Our annual over/unders episode answers all the Blue Jays questions you never knew you even had. This episode is produced and sound engineered by Andrew Norton, and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben Nicholson-Smith. The views […]

Apr 1, 20211h 5m

Ep 69From Here On It Counts For The 2021 Blue Jays

It’s now time for final decisions and roster moves. With opening day nearly here, Arden and Ben take stock of the Blue Jays’ roster and look ahead to the season-opening series in the Bronx. This episode is produced and sound engineered by Andrew Norton, mixed by Amil Delic, and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben […]

Mar 31, 202131 min

Ep 68Ross Stripling On Curveballs, Clayton And Confidence

Arden and Ben discuss the fallout from an eventful week at Blue Jays camp, including injuries of varying severity to Kirby Yates, George Springer, and Robbie Ray. Plus, Ross Stripling joins the guys to talk about his days with the Dodgers, how he’s developed his curveball, and MiLB’s new rules for the 2021 season. This […]

Mar 25, 20211h 4m

Ep 67Manoah Impresses As Blue Jays’ Depth Gets Tested

Two pitching injuries in one week? That’s going to test the Blue Jays’ depth. Plus, Ben and Arden weigh in on further questions surrounding spring standouts Alejandro Kirk and Alek Manoah. This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan, and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling. The views and opinions expressed in […]

Mar 19, 20211h 2m

Ep 66Separating Fact From Fiction With The Blue Jays

What really matters in spring training? And what should we ignore? After discussing the latest Blue Jays news, Ben and Arden attempt to separate fact from fiction on some pressing (and not-so-pressing) Jays-related topics. This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan, and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling. Our video and […]

Mar 12, 202158 min

Ep 65Tough Questions For The Blue Jays On And Off The Field

On the field, Nate Pearson battles a groin strain. Off the field, some troubling allegations lead to questions for top Blue Jays execs. This week, Ben and Arden discuss those developments as well as some of the positives in Jays camp. This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan, and hosted by Ben […]

Mar 5, 202157 min

Ep 64First Impressions Of The 2021 Blue Jays

Spring is here, and the Blue Jays seem optimistic about their chances. As the first full week winds down in Dunedin, Ben and Arden discuss their impressions of the team and look ahead at some potentially tough decisions. This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan, and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling. Our […]

Feb 26, 20211h 8m

Ep 63Spring Begins With High Expectations

Pitchers and catchers report to Dunedin Thursday and position players will be in camp next week, and the Blue Jays’ chances haven’t looked this good in years. This team’s still got lots of questions, though, so Arden and Ben break them all down with ATL’s 2021 spring training preview. This episode is produced and sound […]

Feb 17, 202155 min

Ep 62Semien, Springer… And Maybe More For The Blue Jays

All of a sudden, the Blue Jays are making all kinds of moves — and more may be on the way. Arden and Ben break down the team’s latest, wonder what it would mean for the Jays to be a “behemoth” and look ahead at what’s next. This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan, […]

Feb 5, 20211h 1m

Ep 61Springer A Huge Addition For Ascending Blue Jays

Well, the Toronto landed its top target after all. George Springer is a Blue Jay, so Ben and Arden break down what his deal means, how it impacts the roster and what comes next. This episode is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan, and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling. Our video and […]

Jan 22, 20211h 0m

Ep 60Where Do The Jays Go From Here?

Francisco Lindor is off to New York, Ha-Seong Kim is joining San Diego and Tomoyuki Sugano is heading back to Japan. So where do the Blue Jays turn now as off-season dominos continue to fall? Ben and Arden discuss. This episode is produced and sound engineered by Michael Mayers, and hosted by Arden Zwelling and […]

Jan 8, 202156 min