Post-Gazette Sports Network: Pittsburgh Steelers, Pirates, Penguins and more

Post-Gazette Pirates insiders Noah Hiles and Colin Beazley break down the Pirates' series sweep, their second in a row, at the hands of the St. Louis Cardinals, which concluded Wednesday afternoon with a 5-0 loss, their seventh in a row. The conversation starts with a rundown of the last six years of the Ben Cherington and Derek Shelton era, with some surprise that a season with moderately expectations — internally, at least — has gone the way it has. Is it time for a managerial change or in the front office? Then Noah describes what he saw on his trip to St. Louis and how bad the vibes have gotten in the Pirates clubhouse. What went wrong during the sweep? Is Paul Skenes pitching well enough? What can Pirates bats like Andrew McCutchen, Oneil Cruz and Bryan Reynolds do so the team stops squandering quality starts from pitchers like Skenes and Mitch Keller. Colin and Noah finish by looking ahead at this weekend's three-game set against the Braves and pondering what a successful series looks like. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern, primarily the Steelers' decision to trade George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a third-round pick in next year's NFL draft. How does this move fit into a confusing offseason so far, one that's included big additions in DK Metcalf, Kenneth Gainwell and Darius Slay Jr; big subtractions in the form of Najee Harris, Russell Wilson and Justin Fields; plus a protracted pursuit of quarterback Aaron Rodgers? Are general manager Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin serious about competing this year? Or are they looking toward the 2026 NFL draft, in which they now have a basket of picks to pursue a quarterback like Arch Manning, Drew Allar, Nico Iamaleava and LaNorris Sellers? Paul tackles those questions and more on the football front, then talks Pirates and manager Derek Shelton's future after another series loss vs. the St. Louis Cardinals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo react to the team's decision to trade WR George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys. Why would GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin make this move now? After the NFL draft? If they thought they might trade Pickens, why didn't they draft a starter-quality receiver to pair with DK Metcalf? Could the team still sign a free agent like Keenan Allen or Amari Cooper? And could internal options like Calvin Austin III, Robert Woods and Roman Wilson step up? Our duo tackles those questions and more beyond the receivers room. How might the deal impact the team's pursuit of Aaron Rodgers in NFL free agency? And is the team clearly signaling an interest in acquiring a QB in the deep 2026 draft, the could include names such as Arch Manning, Drew Allar, Nico Iamaleava and LaNorris Sellers? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. He welcomes Washington Wild Things general manager Tony Buselli to analyze the Pirates' most recent losing funk, which included a loss to the St. Louis Cardinals on Monday night. Is this team fixable around stars like Paul Skenes, Oneil Cruz and Andrew McCutchen? Does manager Derek Shelton have the right answers? Or could his time in the dugout be running short? And what should general manager Ben Cherington do with struggling hitters like Tommy Pham, Jack Suwinski and Jared Triolo? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes Akron Beacon Journal Browns insider Chris Easterling to discuss the AFC North rival's chaotic offseason that has former Steelers at the center of it. What is going on with Kenny Pickett and the crowded QB room? Where does he fit in with names including Deshaun Watson, Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel and lightning rod Shedeur Sanders? Why did GM Andrew Berry and coach Kevin Stefanski decide to sign Diontae Johnson despite his strange journey since last offseason? What's going on with Devin Bush following his arrest? And how will draft picks including Mason Graham, Quinshon Judkins, and Dylan Sampson help the cause? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Is former Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger underrated compared to names like Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees, Peyton Manning and others as former Baltimore Ravens rival Terrell Suggs suggested on a podcast recently? Or does he get his just due around the league? Paul offers thoughts on that topic, plus the continuing fallout from the NFL draft and general manager Omar Khan's selection of names like Derrick Harmon, Kaleb Johnson, Jack Sawyer and Will Howard. Then later, Paul reacts to the Pirates' weekend sweep at the hands of the San Diego Padres and ponders the future of manager Derek Shelton. Should he be coaching for his job over the next couple of weeks? Will Oneil Cruz, Andrew McCutchen and the offense ever catch up to Paul Skenes, Mitch Keller and the pitching? And is there any hope left for this season with the team already more than 10 games under the .500 mark? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pirates insider Noah Hiles previews the upcoming series with the St. Louis Cardinals, a team Pittsburgh has actually had some success against this season. Can the Pirates take advantage of what has been bad pitching from the Cardinals? Will Carmen Mlodzinski be making his final start for a while? And what is this series' bold prediction? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo analyze the offensive line after GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin chose not to add to it via the NFL draft. Is that a sign of confidence in young players including Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu, Mason McCormick and Zach Frazier? What are reasonable expectations for that group this season as they look to provide better blocking to RBs Kaleb Johnson, Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell? And better protection for QBs including Mason Rudolph, Will Howard and --possibly -- Aaron Rodgers? Later, the guys take a look at how the CB room is coming together with names like Donte Kent and Darius Slay joining Joey Porter Jr., Cory Tice Jr. and Beanie Bishop. And they take a look at how AFC North rivals including the Ravens, Bengals and Browns performed in the NFL draft, with big names including Shedeur Sanders, Quinshon Judkins, Shemar Stewart and Malaki Starks entering the fray. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his weekly Saturday Conversations podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey welcomes SportsNet Pittsburgh analyst and former Pirates pitcher Steven Brault to discuss the team's slow start. What it an MLB clubhouse like when a team gets off on the wrong foot? Where do the Pirates most need to improve under manager Derek Shelton? And what can they learn from the evolution of Oneil Cruz into a dangerous hitter. And the maturity Paul Skenes has shown in leading the pitching staff? Our duo tackles those topics, then Jason learns how Brault got started in broadcasting and what his hopes are for his career in that field. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Should Steelers general manager Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin consider Titans quarterback Will Levis as a potential alternative should their NFL free agency pursuit of Aaron Rodgers fall through now that Levis appears poised to be displaced by No. 1 overall NFL draft pick Cam Ward in Nashville? Or are Mason Rudolph or even newly drafted quarterback Will Howard preferable to Levis? And does any other potential Plan B quarterback option — including Atlanta’s Kirk Cousins — appeal to Paul? He tackles those questions; looks ahead to the Pirates' three-game series with the San Diego Padres at PNC Park; and gives thoughts on the concern swirling around Paul Skenes after an uncharacteristically sloppy start last time out against the Chicago Cubs. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles previews the team's three-game series against the San Diego Padres this weekend at PNC Park. Can starters Mitch Keller, Bailey Falter and Andrew Heaney persevere in traditionally tough matchups against this dangerous lineup? Or will names like Fernando Tatis Jr., Manny Machado and Luis Arraez get the best of them? Can Andrew McCutchen and Oneil Cruz stay hot against Dylan Cease and San Diego's rotation? And how does Noah feel the series will play out in the win-loss column? He tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko analyze the team's 2025 NFL draft class that was finalized last week. What is the talent ceiling for sixth-round pick Will Howard as a QB? Will he be a career backup type like a Landry Jones or Mason Rudolph? Or can he make a push to be a starter or even a long-term franchise QB? Especially with some time to learn behind Rudolph and potentially Aaron Rodgers as a rookie in 2025? Later, the guys ponder where first-round pick Derrick Harmon's short-term fit may be along coach Mike Tomlin's defensive line, with Cam Heyward still in the fold alongside younger names like Keeanu Benton and Yahya Black. Is his best spot for immediate playing time the nose tackle spot? Then in the final segment, our duo analyzes the undrafted free agency class and wonders whether former Iowa S Sebastian Castro could be a potential steal. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Do the Steelers have enough depth at receiver now that Robert Woods has joined Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson behind DK Metcalf and George Pickens? Or will those three still have to prove themselves as reliable pieces for coach Mike Tomlin and offensive coordinator Arthur Smith? And is the team's talk of becoming more physical following the NFL draft legit now that names like Derrick Harmon, Kaleb Johnson, Jack Sawyer and Yahya Black are in the fold? Paul tackles those questions; ponders the desirability of the Penguins job for NHL coaches; and wonders whether it's time to worry about Paul Skenes after his rocky Thursday start cost the Pirates a series win vs. the Chicago Cubs. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to react to a busy week in Pittsburgh sports news. How much pressure is on Steelers coach Mike Tomlin following the firing of the Penguins' Mike Sullivan? Will he face expectations to win in 2025, after GM Omar Khan decided to keep names like George Pickens and T.J. Watt rather than trade them for future draft capital? And amid the likely signing of veteran Aaron Rodgers? Or will get get a chance to coach the team in 2026, when it holds 10 draft picks and may be able to seek its QB of the future, with names like Arch Manning, Drew Allar, LaNorris Sellers and Nico Iamaleava likely coming out of the college ranks? Later, the guys tackle the Penguins' new direction without Sullivan. What changed for GM Kyle Dubas between last year and this year, given the reality that expectations for 2024-25 were low? Could a new coach jolt the team like Dan Bylsma did in 2009 or Sullivan did in 2016 to spark Stanley Cup runs from Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang? How much runway does Kyle Dubas have to turn the Penguins into contenders? And is the perception of Sidney Crosby's involvement in front office moves fit reality? Then in the third segment, airing on the PG’s Pirates YouTube channel, our duo analyzes the continued lack of results in the win-loss column despite some improvement offensively. Is this just a bad team, even if it continues to show some improvement? What does that mean for GM Ben Cherington and manager Derek Shelton in owner Bob Nutting’s eyes? Is Enmanuel Valdez a useful player? Or only looking good by comparison? And how will things shake out in the rotation with Bubba Chandler becoming hard to deny in the minors, Jared Jones on the mend and Carmen Mlodzinski still struggling after the first time through opposing batting orders? If you haven’t already, subscribe to the sports department’s YouTube channels so you don’t miss videos with our reports, columnists and their special guests. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. How much better did general manager Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin make the team's roster this offseason now that the NFL draft is complete? Are the Steelers better positioned to compete following the trade for DK Metcalf; the signings of names like Kenneth Gainwell and Darius Slay Jr.; and the drafting of players including Derrick Harmon, Jack Sawyer, Kaleb Johnson and Will Howard? Was it enough to replace what they lost in players like Russell Wilson, Justin Fields and Najee Harris? And how much hinges on Aaron Rodgers finally signing with the team? Paul tackles those questions, then welcomes Plum hockey coach Jon Gratton to discuss the Penguins' firing of Mike Sullivan as coach on Monday. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his weekly mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles answers reader questions. Among them: When will prospect Bubba Chandler be promoted to bolster the rotation behind names like Paul Skenes and Mitch Keller? Did Ben Cherington make a mistake in not extending Oneil Cruz this offseason, given his hot start at the plate? Who's the front runner to be the Pirates' All-Star through April? Cruz? Skenes? Maybe Andrew McCutchen? How does Noah assess the job Matt Hague has done as hitting coach? With some players having solid starts but others like Jack Suwinski and Tommy Pham struggling mightily? And is Pham a bust like Rowdy Tellez as a free agent signing? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo analyze the offense's backfield following the NFL draft. Is third-round pick Kaleb Johnson a better fit at running back than Najee Harris was? How do their styles compare and contrast? And how will he pair with new teammates Kenneth Gainwell and Jaylen Warren within OC Arthur Smith's system? Our duo tackles those questions. Then later, they offer thoughts on the interesting strategy GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin used in making middle-round selections including Jack Sawyer, Yahya Black and Will Howard. And in the third segment, they analyze the smokescreens the front office used in bringing prospects including Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart in for visits despite choosing not to take either in the end. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles previews the team's three-game series against the Chicago Cubs that begins Tuesday night at PNC Park. Can Paul Skenes, Andrew Heaney and Carmen Mlodzinski slow down the red-hot Cubs lineup led by Kyle Tucker? Can Andrew McCutchen and Oneil Cruz stay hot to lead a Pirates lineup that's shown progress over the past week? And what other surprises might the Cubs have in store? Noah tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes KDKA-TV sports reporter Cassidy Woods to react to the Steelers moves -- and lack thereof -- during and after NFL draft weekend. Did GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin make the right decision in keeping George Pickens rather than trading him for draft capital with his rookie deal expiring after 2025, and with DK Metcalf now in the fold? And how much can Robert Woods help the receiving corps after signing a one-year deal with the team on Monday? Later, our duo passes our superlatives for the draft class. Who was the most surprising pick? Who's most likely to succeed? And who's most excited to be joining the Steelers specifically? Brian and Cassidy toss those questions around for draft class members including Derrick Harmon, Kaleb Johnson, Jack Sawyer, Will Howard, Yahya Black, Carson Bruender and Donte Kent. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Sports columnist Jason Mackey and Penguins insider Matt Vensel react to news that the team and coach Mike Sullivan have mutually agreed to part ways. How mutual was the decision in reality? Was Sullivan ready to move on? Or was GM Kyle Dubas the prevailing force in the decision? Who could the team be looking at to replace Sullivan? What does the coaching change mean for the veteran trio of Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang? Or young players like Ville Koivunen, Rutger McGroarty or Sergei Murashov? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles reacts live to the club's West Coast road trip and looks ahead to a three-game set with the Chicago Cubs to close out a frustrating April. How hot can Andrew McCutchen stay now now that Bryan Reynolds is fully healthy to play defense, making more room for McCutchen in the lineup? Can Bailey Falter turn his early-season inconsistency around with prospects like Bubba Chandler pushing for time in MLB? And how much heat does Derek Shelton deserve for using Colin Holderman, spoiling a series that began with a promising Paul Skenes start against the Dodgers? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo react to the team's selections in the NFL draft over the weekend. Did GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin do enough to address the ailing run defense with selections including Derrick Harmon, Jack Sawyer and Yahya Black? And how will they fit alongside names like Keenau Benton, Cam Heyward and Patrick Queen? What should fans feel about the way the team addressed the QB situation, settling on Will Howard over names including Shedeur Sanders, Jalen Milroe and Jaxson Dart? Especially with Aaron Rodgers still undecided any Mason Rudolph as the only viable starter on the roster at the moment? And what does Penguins coach Mike Sullivan's surprise departure Monday say about Tomlin's future amid his own prolonged stretch or relative mediocrity? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Christopher Carter react to the team's picks on Day 3 of the NFL draft. -How can fourth-round pick Jack Sawyer add to the already deep EDGE group that includes T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig? -Does the defensive line now have the necessary depth to succeed now that fifth-round pick Yahya Black has joined first-round pick Derrick Harmon and veterans Cam Heyward and Keeanu Benton? -What will sixth-rounder Will Howard offer the QB room, which currently includes Mason Rudolph and may still sign Aaron Rodgers? -Will seventh-rounders Carson Bruener and Donte Kent make contributions? Or are they likely depth pieces? Our duo tackles those questions, plus reacts to Shedeur Sanders heading to Cleveland to join a crowded QB group that already includes Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, Deshaun Watson and former Steelers QB Kenny Pickett. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join the Post-Gazette's team of Steelers experts throughout the second and third rounds of the 2025 NFL draft LIVE from Mike's Beer Bar as they discuss each pick all the way up to and after Pittsburgh's scheduled slot at No. 83 overall. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey to recap Day 2 of the NFL draft from a Steelers perspective. Was Iowa RB Kaleb Johnson too good a value to pass up at pick No. 83? Or should GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin have waited to dip into a deep running back class with names like Dylan Sampson, Bhayshul Tuten or DJ Giddens or Trevor Etienne? How does Johnson fit within OC Arthur Smith's scheme? And a backfield that already includes names like Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell? And how should we interpret Johnson coming to Pittsburgh with a similar style to the recently departed Najee Harris? Is that a good thing or a bad thing? Our duo tackles those questions, then talks QBs as Shedeur Sanders continues to tumble from perceived Day 1 status heading into the draft. How much consideration did he deserve for the Steelers? Who enter Day with long-term QB questions? Would the attention around Sanders have been a bad fit with potentially a No. 3 role in the QB room behind Mason Rudolph and Aaron Rodgers? How does he stack up with other Day 3 QB options like Will Howard and Kyle McCord? And how much consideration did Jalen Milroe deserve before going to the Seattle Seahawks a few picks later? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join the Post-Gazette's team of Steelers experts throughout the first round of the 2025 NFL draft LIVE from Mike's Beer Bar as they discuss each pick all the way up to and after Pittsburgh's scheduled slot at No. 21. Join Adam Bittner, Christopher Carter, Paul Zeise, Jason Mackey, Ray Fittipaldo and Brian Batko to get their reactions to the big news as it happens. Will GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin fortify their defensive line with top prospects like Derrick Harmon, Walter Nolen or Kenneth Grant? Will they aim for a possible franchise quarterback like Shedeur Sanders or Jaxson Dart? Could they go off-script completely and grab names like Omarion Hampton at RB or Jahdae Barron at CB? And will they consider a trade to move up, down or add picks by moving a name like George Pickens or T.J. Watt? Our team ponders those questions amid an offseason that's already included a big trade for DK Metcalf and a long pursuit of QB Aaron Rodgers. For more sports, visit post-gazette.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Friday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko react to the team's selection of DT Derrick Harmon at No. 21 overall in the NFL draft. Did GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin make the right call in going with Harmon over QBs like Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart or RBs like Omarion Hampton, who ended up being available late in the first round? Will they regret missing out on other DT prospects like Walter Nolen and Kenneth Grant, who went earlier in the first round? And how does Harmon fit on the defensive line alongside names like Cam Heyward and Keeanu Benton? Our duo tackles those questions, then looks ahead to Day 2, on which the Steelers hold the 83rd overall pick in the third round. Will they chase a QB like Sanders, Jalen Milroe, Tyler Shough, Will Howard or Kyle McCord? Will they look to add from this deep running back class that includes names like TreVeyon Henderson, Quinshon Judkins, Dylan Sampson and Kaleb Johnson? Or will they look at names at other positions including Alfred Collins on the defensive line or Azareye'h Thomas at cornerback? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette insiders Noah Hiles and Colin Beazley recap the Pirates' series victory in Anaheim, Calif., over the Angels. The recap begins with a look at Andrew Heaney's early dominance, then transitions into highlighting the consistent production the Pirates are now receiving from the top third of their lineup from names like Oneil Cruz, Bryan Reynolds and Andrew McCutchen. The duo then discusses the roster moves made by the team Thursday afternoon, which included Jack Suwinski being optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis and Mike Burrows and Matt Gorski being called up to the big-league club. The video is concluded with a series preview for the Pirates' upcoming three-game set against the Dodgers this weekend. How will Paul Skenes fare in his homecoming game against Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts and the defending World Series champions? Can he outpitch Yoshinobu Yamamoto? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In his weekly Pirates mailbag, insider Noah Hiles answers readers questions while the team plays on the West Coast. Will hot-hitting Enmanuel Valdez have a spot when Spencer Horwitz and Nick Gonzales return from injuries? Will Henry Davis go back to Triple-A when Endy Rodriguez comes back? And was Andrew McCutchen forced on Ben Cherington and Derek Shelton? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to give his thoughts on the Steelers, the NFL draft, the end of the Penguins’ season and the Pirates’ West Coast road trip. On the football side, is Derrick Harmon the most uncomplicated pick for GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin? What about Kenneth Grant and Walter Nolen along the defensive line? And where do QBs Sheduer Sanders and Jaxson Dart fit into that conversation? Later, the duo reacts to Penguins GM Kyle Dubas appearing to signal in post-season comments Tuesday that he's looking more toward 2026-27 than next season in terms of competing meaningfully in the Eastern Conference. Is he being too passive with Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang on the roster? How aggressively should he shop in NHL free agency this summer? Or move bad contracts owed to Tristan Jarry, Erik Karlsson and Ryan Graves? And where does coach Mike Sullivan figure into all of it? Then finally, in a segment airing on the Post-Gazette’s Pirates YouTube channel, the guys react to Andrew McCutchen’s angst about his playing time. Does he deserve better from manager Derek Shelton and GM Ben Cherington? How much longer does McCutchen plan to play? And is Shelton’s lineup turnover an overall problem as well? Our duo tackles those questions, then discusses the team’s mediocre record when Paul Skenes is on the mound and pressure on owner Bob Nutting after loud “sell the team” chants continued during the last homestand. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On a special Thursday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Ray Fittipaldo and Christopher Carter preview the first round of the NFL draft. How closely is GM Omar Khan really eyeing QBs including Shedeur Sanders, Jaxson Dart and Jalen Milroe as he holds the No. 21 overall pick? Could he and coach Mike Tomlin really pull the trigger and take one of those guys? Or are they trying to keep other teams guessing? If the Steelers don't go quarterback, is the eventual pick likely to come from the group of DLs Derrick Harmon, Kenneth Grant and Walter Nolen, or RBs Omarion Hampton and TreVeyon Henderson? And what are the chances a trade happens? Could Khan to move back in the first round to add additional draft capital? Believing one of his top targets will still be available later? Could he move a T.J. Watt or George Pickens to make the night more interesting? And what should we make of comments by Tomlin and Khan about Aaron Rodgers? Our duo tackles all of that and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. With the NFL draft looming, will Steelers GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin commit to George Pickens and T.J. Watt in the end? Or could one or both players still move on draft day if the team doesn't believe it will re-sign them for 2026 and beyond? What are Paul's final thoughts who the first-round pick will ultimately be? A defensive lineman like Kenneth Grant, Walter Nolen or Derrick Harmon? A QB like Shedeur Sanders of Jaxson Dart? Or someone from another position group like Omarion Hampton at RB or Jahdae Barron? And on the baseball front, what should we make of Andrew McCutchen's big night for the Pirates in a much-needed victory against the Los Angeles Angels on Tuesday night in Anaheim, Calif.? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pitt insiders Stephen Thompson and Abby Schnable preview the NFL draft, taking place Thursday through Saturday in Green Bay, Wis. Which Panthers are most likely to be selected this weekend? Is Konata Mumpfield a potential mid-round sleeper pick at wide receiver like Bub Means was a season ago? Will the 6-foot-6 Pitt captain Branson Taylor find a place on an NFL offensive line? Will Ben Sauls get the chance to prove himself as a kicker at the game's highest level? Will local product Donovan McMillon fulfill his NFL dreams? And what does this year's draft so about the overall state of Pat Narduzzi's program? Our duo answers those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes Wes Uhler of the Steelers Nation Radio for a seven-round NFL mock draft of possible picks for GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin. What's the best path for the first-round pick if defensive linemen like Derrick Harmon, Walter Nolen, Kenneth Grant, plus quarterbacks like Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart are all available at pick No. 21 overall? Is CJ West a defensive line name worth knowing in the later rounds if the Steelers pass on DL in the first round? Is Trevor Eitenne the right guy to add to the RB room next to Kenneth Gainwell and Jaylen Warren? And why are Pat Bryant, Malachi Moore and Jalin Conyers among the names to watch in the later rounds? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. What are the Steelers' biggest NFL draft needs beyond quarterback and defensive line? Assuming they take names like Derrick Harmon, Kenneth Grant, Walter Nolen, Shedeur Sanders or Jaxson Dart early, where should they look next? Is it cornerback and options including Shavon Revel Jr., Azareye'h Thomas or Trey Amos? What about running backs like TreVeyon Henderson, Dylan Sampson or Bhayshul Tuten? Or even receiver and players including Jayden Higgins, Jack Bech or Tre Harris? Paul tackles those questions, then previews an important series for the Pirates against the Los Angeles Angels, in which Oneil Cruz, Andrew McCutchen and the offense hope to get on track. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles previews the team's three-game series on the road against the Los Angeles Angels this week. With the team in a slide, will Derek Shelton seek to find more consistency with the lineups he puts out, eschewing the strategy of off days we've seen for players like Oneil Cruz and Andrew McCutchen already this season? What can we expect from the Pirates' probable starters in this series — Bailey Falter, Andrew Heaney and Carmen Mlodzinski? Is this Mlodzinski's last chance to prove he can be a viable option as a starting pitcher? With the Angels likely to start former Pirate Tyler Anderson and former Pirates farmhand Jose Soriano this series, what does it say about the current state of the organization in Pittsburgh? Noah gives his scouting report of the Angels, who so far this season have showed power at the plate thanks to names like Mike Trout, Logan O'Hoppe, Kyren Paris and Taylor Ward but have struggled out of the bullpen. Noah answers those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Gerry Dulac & Ray Fittipaldo react to the news conference held by GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin on Tuesday ahead of the NFL draft. What did the two have to say about the pursuit of Aaron Rodgers? And when might be the deadline for the star QB to sign? Was the praise Tomlin had for Colorado QB Shedeur Sanders a legit expression of interest? Or a smokescreen to throw other teams off the scent of what the Steelers may do? And which defensive linemen might they prefer between top options including Kenneth Grant, Derrick Harmon and Walter Nolen? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette/Daily Collegian insider Joel Haas to preview the NFL draft from a Penn State perspective. Is Abdul Carter the best player available in this draft class? Or do names like Cam Ward and Travis Hunter deserve the title? Is Carter's best fit alongside Myles Garrett with the Cleveland Browns? Or as a face-of-the-franchise type for the New York Giants or Jacksonville Jaguars? How much should teams value TE Tyler Warren's diverse skill set? And how far could he slide down the order on Day 1 of the draft? Later, the guys offer thoughts on names expected to go in later rounds. Can Kevin Winston Jr. slide into the late Day 2 range? How much has Kobe King helped his draft stock since a rough performance against Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff? And will Jaylen Reed's playmaking ability help him get selected? Our duo tackles those topics, then pivots to spring football and NCAA transfer portal news for the Nittany Lions. Have Devonte Ross and Kyron Hudson proven they can help the receivers room in 2025? Will coach James Franklin add Syracuse WR Trebor Pena before the end of the spring transfer window? And are internal options like Tyseer Denmark, Kaden Saunders and Liam Clifford capable of stepping up to give QB Drew Allar more options in 2025? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. What should we make of reports from ESPN's Adam Schefter that the Steelers are looking to trade back in the first round of the NFL draft? Would that be the right move for GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin to try to recoup some draft capital? And could they still land speculated targets including Derrick Harmon, Kenneth Grant, Walter Nolen, Shedeur Sanders, Jaxson Dart of Omarion Hampton in the latter portions of the first round? Later, Paul gives his thoughts on the latest in the wait for Aaron Rodgers to sign with the team. Will he be under contract by the draft? And if not, how long after it should the Steelers wait before moving on with Mason Rduolph? Paul tackles those football topics, then weighs in on the Pirates' rough weekend, during which they were swept by the Cleveland Guardians. How much heat does manager Derek Shelton deserve for questionable lineup choices with Oneil Cruz, Andrew McCutchen and others? And can they turn their struggles around on the West Coast this week? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles reacts live to the club's weekend sweep at the hands of the Cleveland Guardians and looks ahead to a West Coast swing against the Los Angeles Angels and Dodgers. Can the club survive a schedule that gets tougher in the coming weeks? Does manager Derek Shelton deserve the scrutiny he's getting for lineup decisions related to Oneil Cruz, Andrew McCutchen, Jack Suwinski, Tommy Pham, Alexander Canario and others? How much hope should fans have in underlying statistic that suggest an offensive turnaround should be coming at some point? And when will this team begin to take advantage of strong starts from names including Mitch Keller and Paul Skenes? Noah tackles those topics and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo ponder the importance of the 2025 NFL draft to the franchise's long-term future. Why is it essential for GM Omar Khan, assistant GM Andy Weidl and coach Mike Tomlin to properly balance short-term needs with the potential to add long-term staples? How does that balance fit into the conversations around names including DLs Derrick Harmon, Kenneth Grant and Walter Nolen; QBs Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart; RBs Omarion Hampton and Dylan Sampson; and defensive backs like Jahdae Barron? Our duo tackles those questions, then talks QBs. How did the franchise get here? With only Mason Rudolph as their only viable option under contract? Should they have taken more NFL draft chances on QBs following Ben Roethlisberger's retirement? Or even before it? Or were they correct to take the chances they did with Justin Fields and Russell Wilson last season. Or potentially Aaron Rodgers in 2025? Then in the third segment, the guys ponder lessons from former GM Kevin Colbert's early successes and his late failures that contributed to the current state of today's roster. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko recap the week in NFL mock draft picks for the team from across the Internet. -Is Shemar Stewart a name we should pay more attention to in the defensive line conversation alongside names like Kenneth Grant, Derrick Harmon and Walter Nolen? Especially because he visited the team's facility while Grant and Nolen did not? -Where does Dylan Sampson fit in the RB pecking order for GM Omar Khan after several multi-round mocks connected him to the Steelers this week? -What should we make of Shedeur Sanders trending down and Jaxson Dart's continually volatile draft stock in the QB conversation and the Aaron Rodgers drama drags into another week? -Could fans be happy with depth defensive line prospects including Jamaree Caldwell, Ty Robinson, Elijah Roberts and Jordan Phillips should coach Mike Tomlin not add the the bigger names in the earlier rounds? -And how soon is too soon for Khan to consider a depth defensive tackle to work behind Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu and push them for starting roles if they struggle? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his weekly Saturday Conversations podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey welcomes Penguins broadcaster Paul Steigerwald to tackle a range of hockey topics. Can coach Mike Sullivan's team sustain its late-season momentum into next season to give Sidney Crosby, Kris Letang and Evgeni Malkin a chance to return to the playoffs? How much should we believe in young players and prospects like Ville Koivunen, Rutger McGroarty and Sergei Murashov? And how much can GM Kyle Dubas accomplish with his slew of NHL draft picks in upcoming lotteries? Our duo tackles those topics, then looks back on Paul's career as a broadcaster. How did it come to be after he started as the team's director of marketing? What was his relationship with Mike Lange? And what are his memories of the late play-by-play legend? What are his favorite stories from past Stanley Cup runs? When does he plan to retire? And which players does he put on the Mount Rushmore of Penguins hockey next to names like Crosby, Mario Lemieux and Jaromir Jagr? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles previews the team's three-game series against the Cleveland Guardians this weekend. Carmen Mlodzinski starts Friday night against former Pirate Luis Ortiz. What does Mlodzinksi need to show in order to shore up his place in the starting rotation? Is getting through the Guardians order twice the key? How will the bullpen perform now that it's rested thanks to some solid starting pitching performances this week against the Nationals? Noah also breaks down some of the likely pitching matchups as NL Rookie of the Year Paul Skenes looks set to face Ben Lively and Mitch Keller faces off against Logan Allen. How can the Pirates generate enough offense to come on top of those games? Finally, Noah breaks down the Guardians' start to the season. Numbers show they're about average across the board so far this year, but will this team that made the playoffs last season start to kick it into gear this weekend? Noah answers those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Brian Batko hold a fantasy draft of which players they feel GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin are most likely to pick in the NFL draft. Will the answer come from the familiar DT trio of Derrick Harmon, Kenneth Grant and Walter Nolen? Could Nick Emmanwori be a sleeper option? Where do QBs Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart fit into the conversation? Are Darius Alexander, Jahdae Barron and Shemar Stewart wild-cards? Our duo tackles those questions, then ponders which non-visitors to the Steelers' facility this draft season remain high on the radar. Then discusses whether T.J. Watt could be worth $41 million or more on his next contract. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Pirates insiders Noah Hiles and Colin Beazley break down the Pirates' series win over the Washington Nationals, in which they won three of four games, which concluded Thursday afternoon with a 1-0 win. Paul Skenes, Mitch Keller, Bailey Falter and Andrew Heaney all gave the Pirates quality starts in the series, but how long can a strong starting rotation be expected to carry the team's lackluster offense? Is Oneil Cruz the answer to the club's leadoff spot woes, as the center field hit two home runs, including a grand slam, in this series? And what other changes could manager Derek Shelton make to the lineup to try to generate more runs? Our duo discusses those topics and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey to discuss the Steelers' interest in running backs ahead of the NFL draft. What should we make of the fact that nine of the team's 30 pre-draft visitors play the position? How much belief should OC Arthur Smith have in internal options like Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell? Will GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin look to make a big splash and take a projected Day 1 option like Omarion Hampton to replace Najee Harris as a 1,000-yard caliber back? Or will they look to Days 2 and 3 with an eye toward building depth in the form of names like DJ Giddens, Bhayshul Tuten, Dylan Sampson, Ollie Gordon II, Jaydon Blue, Kaleb Johnson, RJ Harvey and TreVeyon Henderson? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In his weekly mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles answers reader questions. Among them: What's preventing outfielder Oneil Cruz from becoming an elite MLB player? What role do analytics play in manager Derek Shelton's constantly shifting lineups? Which prospects beyond Bubba Chandler are worthy of promotions? Will Chandler bump Carmen Mlodzinski from the lineup whenever he reaches the big leagues? When could a potential change come with Ben Cherington in the GM role? When will we see more of Andrew McCutchen in the lineup? And is Jack Suwinski the new Cole Tucker? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, Post-Gazette Steelers insiders Christopher Carter and Ray Fittipaldo recap their final seven-round mocks ahead of the NFL draft next week. Why did both choose Oregon DL Derrick Harmon over other DL options like Walter Nolen and Kenneth Grant? And projected first-round options at other positions like Jahdae Barron at CB, Omarion Hampton at RB and Shedeur Sanders or Jaxson Dart at QB? Will coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan chase speed at RB on Day 2 with names like Dylan Sampson and Bhayshul Tuten? How would those guys pair with internal options like Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell? Can Tyler Shough and Will Howard be capable backups to Mason Rudolph and -- possibly -- Aaron Rodgers quickly? And why are OT Logan Brown, WR Konata Mumpfield, Ty Robinson, Jamaree Caldwell and Yahya Black among names to watch as potential Day 3 games? Our duo tackles those questions and more. For more sports, visit post-gazette.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his weekly Chipped Ham & Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes ESPN senior college football writer Heather Dinich to analyze the 2025 and 2026 NFL draft QB classes to find the best possible fit for coach Mike Tomlin's team. How does Heather feel about 2025 options at the position including Shedeur Sanders, Jaxson Dart, Jalen Milroe, Will Howard and Tyler Shough? Do any of them make more sense than names like Drew Allar, Nico Iamaleava, LaNorris Sellers and Cade Klubnik? Who all could be available next spring along with Arch Manning? And what are Heather's thoughts on the Aaron Rodgers drama in the short-term, as OC Arthur Smith waits to see who will be throwing to star receivers DK Metcalf and George Pickens in the season ahead. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.