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

On their Pirates podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Noah Hiles and Andrew Destin recap the weekend series against the Toronto Blue Jays. Did Ke'Bryan Hayes show some signs that he might be figuring some things out offensively after his return from injury? Can Mitch Keller keep his May momentum going in June? Is Bailey Falter pitching like an All-Star with his spot in the rotation? Is the bullpen becoming a bit more steady after faltering the last couple of weeks? And can Rowdy Tellez parlay a strong outing Sunday into more consistency at the plate? 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.

In this clip from the Friday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette sports columnists Paul Zeise and Jason Mackey to debate MLB's decision to include Negro League stats in its official record book. Is it the proper move by commissioner Rob Manfred to honor legends like the Homestead Grays' Josh Gibson and the Pittsburgh Crawfords' Satchel Paige? Or does it soften this history of those players' exclusion from MLB under segregation? And to what degree is the incomplete nature of the stats being included relevant in the conversation? Our trio 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.

Steelers tackle Broderick Jones speaks with reporters during the teams OTAs on the South Side this week. Among the topics: His ability to switch between the left and right tackle spots; then competition with Troy Fautanu and Dan Moore Jr. for starting roles; the ways he's tried to help Fautanu, Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick adapt as rookies, given his own experience as a first-year player in 2023; and the growing relationships with QBs Russell Wilson and Justin Fields within OC Arthur Smith's new offense. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this clip from the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to discuss the team's offensive identity as the second week of OTAs comes to a close. Is OC Arthur Smith ahead of where Matt Canada was last year in creating an offensive identity? Why do players led by Broderick Jones seem to be embracing that identity so much more? Can a run-first offense led by linemen like Troy Fautanu and Zach Frazier, backs like Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren and QB Russell Wilson find success in what's become a pass-first league? And can the Steelers win like they did in the Killer B's era with Ben Roethlisberger, Le'Veon Bell and Antonio Brown? Our duo 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 his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey takes reader questions. Among them: How much does the bullpen miss Ryan Borucki this season? Does GM Ben Cherington have any urgency to upgrade this MLB roster via a trade, perhaps involving a key prospect or two? Why does Rowdy Tellez still have a roster spot despite showing no signs of improvement? What is Endy Rodriguez's future at catcher with Henry Davis and Joey Bart also manning that position? And should manager Derek Shelton be starting Jared Jones and Paul Skenes in consecutive outings? 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 YouTube appearance, Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise joins host Adam Bittner to weigh Najee Harris' value to the Steelers in 2024 after GM Omar Khan declined his fifth-year option. Should Khan consider trading him instead of letting him walk for nothing at the end of the year? Would other teams actually value him enough to get a deal for a top wideout like Brandon Aiyuk or Deebo Samuel done? Or is Harris simply most valuable playing out the final year of his contract in Pittsburgh? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Among them: Should new OC Arthur Smith develop a package of plays for backup QB Justin Fields? Especially after starter Russell Wilson endorsed the idea? Is Pat Freiermuth really going to take a next step in Smith's offense considering Kyle Pitts failed to become an elite TE for him in Atlanta? And is there anything Pirates GM Ben Cherington has done better than predecessor Neal Huntington as he nears the five-year mark in his tenure? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey gives his thoughts on MLB's decision to incorporate Negro Leagues stats into the official statistical record. Was it the right call? He also ponders where Paul Skenes' development stands after another successful outing Wednesday against the Detroit Tigers. Is the Pirates' rookie even better than advertised? Then later, Jason ponders Pittsburgh native Vincent Trocheck's outstanding Stanley Cup playoffs run for the New York Rangers and why it might have been a mistake for GM Kyle Dubas and Penguins not to bring him home last offseason. 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 edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to discuss the latest from Steelers OTAs, specifically Arthur Smith's offense. Why could Pat Freiermuth's expanded role help him rise the ranks to join the elite tight ends in the NFL? Will Darnell Washington, Connor Heyward and Rodney Williams all see expanded roles as well? What has Smith already done in OTAs that puts him ahead of where the offense was under Matt Canada the past couple of years? And what role has QB Russell Wilson's leadership played in that?Our duo tackles those questions. Then later, Christopher welcomes Pirates insider Noah Hiles to break down the Pirates' doubleheader against the Detroit Tigers and how Jared Jones and Paul Skenes may fair starting on the same day. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey has the latest on Steelers OTAs. Why is Pat Friermuth looking ready to take the next step and become one of the top tight ends in the NFL? How will Arthur Smith's offense showcase him more than Matt Canada's did? And what were QB Justin Fields' thoughts on the suggestions that he could return kickoffs while serving as Russell Wilson's backup this season? Jason answers those questions, then gets into some Pirates and baseball topics. What can the club do to help Ke'Bryan Hayes with his chronically ailing back? And what's the significance of MLB's move to include Negro League stats in its official record books? Particularly for Homestead Grays star Josh Gibson? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On their weekly Pitt sports mailbag video, Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Abby Schnable answer reader questions. Among them: What are the details of the confusing NCAA settlement that paves the way for players to be paid for the first time? Will it help or hurt Pat Narduzzi and the football program or Jeff Capel and the basketball program? Especially in recruiting? Will players be under contract in the new ecosystem? And what are the Title IX implications for women's sports? Our duo 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 his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey recaps the first week of Steelers OTAs with five storylines he's watching. Among them: Why did Russell Wilson look like the obvious No. 1 QB over Justin Fields? And how long will coach Mike Tomlin stick with him if he struggles? Why do players seem to be grasping Arthur Smith's offense and embracing it more than they ever did under Matt Canada? Why is Jason still not confident in the team's options at No. 2 WR behind George Pickens? And why does he believe Troy Fautanu and Broderick Jones should be named the starting tackles sooner than later? He gets into those questions and more.Then later, Jason previews an important road trip through Detroit and Toronto for the Pirates this week. Could we see Henry Davis with Joey Bart injured? And what were Jason's thoughts on the 1979 World Series reunion this past weekend? 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 Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko to react to the latest from OTAs. How are LBs Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson making strong first impressions? Why has Darius Rush been the name to watch at CB? And how is George Pickens handling his transition to the No. 1 WR role? Our duo tackles those questions and much 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 daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey answers reader questions. Among them: Does the Pirates' Dave Parker belong in the Baseball Hall of Fame? Should manager Derek Shelton be on the hot seat after back-to-back ugly losses that included big blown leads? Should GM Ben Cherington consider a trade for a first baseman amid recent struggles by Rowdy Tellez and Connor Joe? And why hasn't Tellez been DFA'd yet? Jason tackles those questions, plus more on other fronts. Including: When will Penguins GM Kyle Dubas make his first trade of the offseason? Would it be a disappointment if the Steelers start worse than 3-0? And Can West Virginia's Beanie Bishop win the slot cornerback role as an undrafted free agent? 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 Andrew Destin react from PNC Park to the club's series loss against the San Francisco Giants this week. What went wrong for the Pirates? Is their bullpen fixable after imploding and giving up big leads in two straight games? How did rookie sensations Jared Jones and Paul Skenes fare in their outings this week? Is it time for Ben Cherington to make a move and say goodbye to Rowdy Tellez? Was Aroldis Chapman a wasted signing? And how can Jack Suwinski re-find his form after being demoted to Triple-A Indianapolis? Our duo 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.

In his weekly YouTube appearance, Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise joins host Adam Bittner to react to Steelers OTAs. Is the hype for QB Justin Fields coming from some fans and media a reflection of his actual talent level? Or is it being rushed by a yearning for him to bring stability at the position after years of uncertainty amid the transition away from Ben Roethlisberger? Should the Steelers have sought a clearer long-term option this offseason? Or was adding Fields and Wilson at bargain rates still the right play? Our duo tackles those questions and also ponders the expiring contracts of Najee Harris and Cam Heyward. Then later, Paul explains why he thinks the Pirates' 1-2-3 rotation combination of Paul Skenes, Jared Jones and Mitch Keller could be enough to get the club to the postseason if names like Oneil Cruz and Bryan Reynolds can find ways to hit just a little better. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey weighs in on Penguins coach Mike Sullivan's appointment to lead Team USA in the upcoming 2026 Olympics. Does the selection prove his value as a coach, even as some fans worry his message has gotten stale? Does his reputation around hockey put pressure on his Penguins players to be the solution to the team's two-year streak of missing the Stanley Cup playoffs? And what should we make of Sheldon Keefe joining the New Jersey Devils after some rumors tied him to the Penguins organization? Jason tackles those questions, then gets into the Pirates. Specifically the struggles of the bullpen and free agents Rowdy Tellez and Aroldis Chapman. He also offers his thoughts on Pittsburgh serving as host for the 2026 NFL draft and the potential for the league to move to an 18-game schedule. 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, presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to recap the first day of OTAs on the South Side. Is there an actual competition between Justin Fields and Russell Wilson for the No. 1 QB job? Or just a lot of talk about it? What kind of pressure is on George Pickens as he becomes the top wideout and how is he handling it? How did new receivers including Quez Watkins, Van Jefferson and Scotty Miller look on Day 1? And did we gain any clarity on how things might be working out at tackle between Dan Moore Jr., Troy Fautanu and Broderick Jones? Why can names like Dean Lowry, Isaiahh Loudermilk and DeMarvin Leal potentially take advantage of Cam Heyward's absence amid his contract dispute? And what other questions does this team need to answer before training camp? 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 daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey reacts to the Pirates' comeback win against the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday night at PNC Park, in which Nick Gonzales and Oneil Cruz played key roles. Is Cruz turning a corner with clutch hits and more frequent displays of his raw power? What can Ji Hwan Bae do now that he's been promoted back to the MLB roster after a sizzling stint with Class Triple-A Indianapolis? Could Henry Davis be returning after his own power surge with the Indians? And what are Jason's reactions to Barry Bonds, Jim Leyland and Manny Sanguillen being selected to the team's Hall of Fame? Jason answers those questions, then talks a little Steelers OTAs. How is George Pickens showing signs of maturity already? And what should we make of the contrasting ways Najee Harris and Cam Heyward are handling their contract situations? 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 and Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes Wes Uhler of the Steelers Radio Network and former linebacker Arthur Moats to discuss hot topics around the team as OTAs begin this week. How will Najee Harris react to having the fifth-year option on his rookie declined, and what are his thoughts about his future in Pittsburgh? Will Cam Heyward's absence amid contract negotiations be noticeable? What will quarterback Russell Wilson have to say about the trade with the Chicago Bears for likely backups Justin Fields? And what are the best road venues the Steelers will visit after the NFL's schedule release last week? Our trio 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 his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey welcomes former Pirates catcher and Sportsnet Pittsburgh analyst Michael McKenry to react to the controversial call involving Cody Bellinger and Joey Bart at home plate against the Chicago Cubs on Saturday at Wrigley Field. What did Michael think of the call as a former catcher? And did it remind him of umpire Jerry Meals' missed call at home plate in Atlanta in 2011, one that proved pivotal in the club's season?Our duo tackles those topics, then takes a wider lens on issue around the team. Is the recent rotation success of Paul Skenes, Jared Jones, Bailey Falter and Mitch Keller built to last? How has Michael been helping Andrew McCutchen lately? And what kind of challenges do recent struggles from Rowdy Tellez pose for manager Derek Shelton in making lineup decisions? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

One their weekly Pitt sports mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Abby Schnable answer reader questions. Among them: Do the additions of players including Amsal Delalic, Cam Corhen and Damian Dunn give basketball coach Jeff Capel and NCAA Tournament-caliber roster? What will the starting lineup look like next season with names including Jaland Lowe and Ishmael Leggett set to return? And what will recent football commit Elijah Dotson bring to coach Pat Narduzzi's team? 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 Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to preview the teams OTAs this week. What will the dynamic between Russell Wilson and Justin Fields be as they compete for the starting QB job? What will Fields have to say about leaving the Chicago Bears in a trade as part of their plan to take Caleb Williams with the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL draft? And how will Wilson's leadership look up close. Our duo tackles those topics and also looks at other position battles to watch. Will any of the receivers including Roman Wilson, Van Jefferson, Quez Watkins or Scotty Miller prove they can be a serviceable No. 2? How will the cornerback room look with Donte Jackson arriving via the Diontae Johnson trade and Ryan Watts joining a young group that also includes Cory Trice Jr. and Darius Rush? And how does the absence of Cam Heyward loom over the proceedings? Then later, sports columnist Jason Mackey joins to offer his thoughts on the weekend series against the Chicago Cubs in which rotation members Jared Jones, Paul Skenes, Bailey Falter and Mitch Keller all pitched well. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On their Pirates podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Andrew Destin and Noah Hiles react to a dominant series victory against the Chicago Cubs this past weekend at Wrigley Field. Can the club's rotation continue its recent domination with names including Jared Jones, Paul Skenes, Bailey Falter and Mitch Keller all pitching well? Is Nick Gonzales beginning to lay claim to the second base job after hitting over .300 on the road trip against the Cubs and Milwaukee Brewers? What should we make of Andrew McCutchen making his first start in right field over the weekend? And how much longer can GM Ben Cherington and manager Derek Shelton continue to give 1B Rowdy Tellez a roster spot? Our duo 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 his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey reacts to the Pirates' 5-4 win against the Cubs on Thursday night in Chicago. Was the aggression we saw at the plate from players including Nick Gonzales and Edward Olivares a reflection of a changing approach to hitting amid a team-wide slump? Or just a coincidence? How did Jared Jones pitch a solid game despite not having his best stuff? And looking ahead to Friday, what will Paul Skenes do in his second MLB start? Jason tackles those questions, gives his thoughts on the Steelers' Najee Harris coming to offseason workouts motivated and encourages the Penguins not to trade defenseman Marcus Pettersson this offseason. 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 Mike's Beer Bar, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko joins host Christopher Carter to discuss the latest news surrounding defensive captain Cam Heyward. Why is he expected to skip offseason workouts with the team? Will his holdout persist into training camp? Or will he be able to reach a new contract with the team?Our duo tackles those topics and ponders what it means that running back Najee Harris has dropped some weight ahead of Steelers OTAs and minicamp. Then later, Pirates insider Andrew Destin joins Christopher to look ahead to Paul Skenes' second MLB start Friday against the Cubs at Wrigley Field in Chicago. 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 First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey takes stock of where the Pirates stand after 44 games, on a 70-win pace. How fair would it be for owner Bob Nutting to be losing patience with GM Ben Cherington and manager Derek Shelton, as young hitters including Henry Davis, Jack Suwinski and Nick Gonzales continue to struggle and young pitchers like Quinn Priester and Roansy Contreras are being shipped out via DFA and the minors? And what happened to the "player-centric" development model Cherington promised, as the club seems to be imposing a cookie-cutter approach on hitters offensively? Jason tackles those questions, then reacts to the Steelers schedule, released Wednesday, that includes four primetime games as well as a Christmas Day matchup with Patrick Mahomes, Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs at Acrisure Stadium. 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 YouTube appearance, Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise joins host Adam Bittner to react to the Steelers' 2024 NFL schedule release. Is the Christmas Day matchup with the Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, Taylor Swift and the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs on Netflix a good thing or a bad thing? Will playing three of the first four games on the road hinder the offense's ability to gel with new faces Russell Wilson, Troy Fautanu and Zach Frazier among others joining the fold? How will this team hold up against a tough second half of the slate that includes all six division games with the Bengals, Ravens and Browns. Plus dates with Super Bowl contenders including the Chiefs and Eagles? And is the home opener against Jim Harbaugh, Justin Herbert and the Chargers a sneaky tough one?Our duo tackles those questions and more, then gets into the Pirates. What should we make of the short-lived six man rotation and the decisions to DFA Roansy Contreras and option Quinn Priester back to the minors. Does the coaching staff's failure with those players portend bad things for Jared Jones and Paul Skenes? Was Nick Gonzales' success with Triple-A Indianapolis overhyped? And when will Ben Cherington get some real heat for how this team is performing? 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 Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to analyze third-round NFL draft pick Roman Wilson's role in new OC Arthur Smith's offense. How much potential does Wilson have to be a No. 2 behind George Pickens and ahead of names like Van Jefferson, Scotty Miller and Quez Watkins? Can he handle a high volume of targets after not seeing the ball a ton in his college offense at Michigan? Or are the Steelers going to need to trade for a proven No. 2 like Courtland Sutton, Brandon Aiyuk or Deebo Samuel?Our duo tackles those questions and more. They also ponder what the Steelers can expect in the NFL schedule release Wednesday night. And later, Pirates insider Andrew Destin joins Christopher to break down the team's series against the Brewers in Milwaukee. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey checks in with former AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh Pirates sideline reporter Robby Incmikoski to see what he's been up to since leaving the network last fall. How are things in his new role with Bally Sports Southwest, covering the World Series champion Texas Rangers? And what are some of his favorite memories of working with the Pirates in a tenure that spanned the playoff years with Andrew McCutchen, Gerrit Cole and Neil Walker to more recent struggles under GM Ben Cherington and manager Derek Shelton? Our duo 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 his weekly Chipped Ham and Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko answers reader questions. Among them: Is a Pat Freiermuth extension really worthwhile for GM Omar Khan considering the tight ends injuries and uninspiring production? Should the team have selected a top NFL draft corner like Quinyon Mitchell, Terrion Arnold, Nate Wiggins or Cooper DeJean instead of the sixth tackle off the board in Troy Fautanu? Could QB Justin Fields be an option at another position like WR or KR if he fails to beat out Russell Wilson for the top QB job? What about undrafted free agent John Rhys Plumlee? And how quickly can Arthur Smith assemble all of his pieces on offense before the unit hits its stride? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey reacts to the club's 8-6 victory against the Milwaukee Brewers on Tuesday night. Is it time to give shortstop Oneil Cruz credit for emerging from his early-season slump? How much longer can general manager Ben Cherington let Rowdy Tellez struggle at first base? And will the Pirates cum to regret designating Roansy Contreras for assignment to make room for Paul Skenes on the MLB roster? Jason tackles those questions, then explains why he prefers the Steelers' QB situation with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields to the $212 million contract that the Detroit Lions just gave to Jared Goff. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On their weekly Pitt mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Abby Schnable answer reader questions. Among them: What can Chris and Abby tell us about new Pitt transfer portal commits Chief Borders and Josh McCarty? How is Pat Narduzzi's 2025 recruiting class coming along? What are Blake Hinson's NBA chances after an impressive showing at G League camp? And what is the financial situation like for the Atlantic Coast Conference? 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 Mike's Beer Bar, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo joins host Christopher Carter to react to the team's rookie minicamp over the weekend. Should we read anything into Troy Fautanu working out at RT as opposed to LT? Is undrafted rookie Beanie Bishop an option at slot corner? Who is Anthony Averett, the veteran CB signed after a tryout during rookie camp? And how did new faces including Zach Frazier, Roman Wilson and Payton Wilson look on their first weekend as Steelers? Our duo tackles those topics and more on the football front. Then Christopher welcomes Pirates insider Noah Hiles to react to Paul Skenes' MLB debut against the Chicago Cubs on Saturday at PNC Park. And another series loss for the team. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey reacts to Paul Skenes' MLB debut for the Pirates over the weekend. What was the atmosphere at PNC Park like for the win against the Chicago Cubs? What can Skenes improve before his next start against the same team at Wrigley Field this week? And what moves does GM Ben Cherington need to make now to improve a roster that lost yet another series? Could names like Rowdy Tellez be in jeopardy of losing playing time? Jason offers his thoughts on those questions, then turns his attention to Steelers rookie minicamp, where NFL draft choices including Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier and Roman Wilson got their first chance to impress while wearing the team's uniforms over the weekend. 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 Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to preview the team's rookie minicamp. What will the NFL draft class that includes Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier, Roman Wilson, Payton Wilson, Mason McCormick, Ryan Watts and Logan Lee show in their first workouts with the team? Do any of these players have a chance to start Week 1 -- or at least early in their rookie seasons? Our duo tackles those questions, plus reports that former linebacker Bud Dupree has been in contact with the Steelers about a possible return. Then later, Pirates insider Noah Hiles joins Chris to preview Paul Skenes' MLB debut against the Chicago Cubs on Saturday at PNC Park. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey tackles reasonable expectations for former No. 1 overall MLB draft pick Paul Skenes' MLB debut, scheduled for Saturday against the Chicago Cubs at PNC Park. He also explains why GM Ben Cherington and the front office kept word of Skenes' promotion a tightly held secret and what the promotion of Nick Gonzales could mean for the club's struggling offense. Later, he analyzes the Steelers' signing of veteran WR Scotty Miller, arguing the receivers room needs more talent behind Georgie Pickens as the No. 1. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Charlotte Heyward-Wesley, mother of Steelers Cameron and Connor, talks with Post-Gazette Health reporter Abby Mackey about raising a houseful of children — all of whom she instilled with a respect for others and a drive to do good. Check out the Post-Gazette's newly launched 412 Kids parenting podcast for more conversations like these: https://newsinteractive.post-gazette.com/412-kids-parenting-podcast/ 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 YouTube appearance, Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise joins host Adam Bittner to react to the Steelers' NFL free agency signing of WR Scotty Miller, who most recently played under new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith with the Atlanta Falcons. Could Miller be useful? Or is he just the latest in a slew of uninspiring free agent signings that includes Van Jefferson and Quez Watkins? Does Smith's offense really require a strong No. 2 receiver across from George Pickens? Or is the emphasis on the running game with Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren all that really matters? And is there still a chance GM Omar Khan gives quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields a bigger-name weapon between now and the start of the season? Our duo tackles those questions, then gets into some Pirates topics. Can Paul Skenes really help the team's results much as the offense continues to scuffle? How long will GM Ben Cherington allow 1B Rowdy Tellez to scuffle before giving his roster spot to minor league standouts like Nick Gonzales, Jake Lamb and Ji Hwan Bae? And are Oneil Cruz's early struggles more related to his 2023 injury? Or the Pirates clear issue with developing hitters overall? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey welcomes LSU baseball coach Jay Johnson to talk about Paul Skenes ahead of his MLB debut, scheduled for Saturday against the Chicago Cubs at PNC Park. What makes the former No. 1 overall MLB draft pick special? How did the Tigers' run to a College World Series title last season prepare him for success at the sport's top level? And how does he compare to former Washington Nationals ace Stephen Strasburg, whom Johnson coached against when Strasburg was in college at San Diego State? 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.

The Pirates are calling up No. 1 prospect Paul Skenes, who will make his major-league debut Saturday against the Cubs. What does this mean for Jared Jones and the Pirates, who lost 5-4 on Wednesday afternoon to drop a winnable series to the visiting Los Angeles Angels at PNC Park? Will Skenes be on a pitch count? Does it even matter if the Pirates can't hit? 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.

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Mike's Bee Bar, host Christopher Carter and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo discuss the team's options in finding a No. 2 receiver behind George Pickens. Should GM Omar Khan continue to remain patient and see how internal options like Van Jefferson, Quez Watkins and Roman Wilson look during spring workouts? Should he target remaining free agents like Hunter Renfrow, Marquez Valdes-Scantling or Michael Thomas? Or could a trade for a name like Courtland Sutton, Deebo Samuel or Brandon Aiyuk still make the most sense at some point between now and the start of the 2024 NFL season? At what other spots could they look to add? And is Cam Sutton still a possibility at corner?Our duo tackles those questions and more. Then later, Chris welcomes Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles to discuss the team's series against the Los Angeles Angels and the chances we could see former No. 1 overall pick Paul Skenes in MLB this weekend. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On their weekly Pitt mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Abby Schnable answer reader questions. Among them? What is basketball coach Jeff Capel's next recruiting move now that Kentucky transfer Adou Thiero has picked John Calipari and Arkansas over the Panthers? And why didn't Blake Hinson receive an NBA draft combine invite after his superb season in the ACC? Then on the football side, are Anthony Johnson and Jacob Bostick potential recruiting targets in the transfer portal? And does Pat Narduzzi need to emphasize Pitt's success in the NFL draft more frequently on the recruiting trail? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey reacts to Pirates manager Derek Shelton's Monday comments on Paul Skenes' pending MLB debut. Why would Shelton say last year's No. 1 overall MLB draft pick is "scheduled to pitch" in the minors this weekend, despite many signs that point toward him being promoted? Why does the club's schedule make a debut soon unfavorable if it's not this weekend? And what's the likely timeline if a promotion is still coming this week?Jason tackles those questions, reacts to Mitch Keller's complete game win against the Los Angeles Angeles on Monday at PNC Park and gives his thoughts on former first-round pick Cole Tucker's return to Pittsburgh with the Angels. 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 and Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes undrafted free agent QB John Rhys Plumlee to talk about his signing with the team. How did the deal come together at the conclusion of the NFL draft last month? Why does he see himself as a QB despite some teams wishing to see him work out at WR during the draft process? Could he mimic the New Orleans Saints' Taysom Hill or former QB Kordell Stewart and play a "slash" type roll for the Steelers, switching off between positions? And why does he see himself in presumptive starting quarterback Russell Wilson? Our duo 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.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey weighs in on the Penguins' firing of assistant Todd Reirden from coach Mike Sullivan's staff. Can a fresh voice actually get the team's powerplay led by stars including Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang to click? Or is Reirden being scapgoated for that group's resistance to chance? Jason tackles those questions, recaps his weekend at the Pittsburgh Marathon and ponders what's next for the Pirates after a series victory against the Colorado Rockies over the weekend. Could Paul Skenes be promoted from Class Triple-A Indianapolis this week? Or will fans have to wait longer? And what needs to carry over into the next series against the Los Angeles Angels that begins Monday evening at PNC Park? 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 Andrew Destin react to the club's series victory against the Colorado Rockies this weekend. Is Oneil Cruz showing signs of coming around after smacking a pair of homers in the three-game set? Is Jared Jones becoming a stopper in this rotation? Is Bailey Falter regressing? And what's next for Henry Davis now that he's been demoted to Class Triple-A Indianapolis amid Yasmani Grandal's activation from the injured list? Our duo 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.

Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles and columnist Jason Mackey chat live about hot topics around the team. What does it mean that GM Ben Cherington has demoted Henry Davis in favor of Yasmani Grandal? How should manager Derek Shelton handle the struggling Oneil Cruz? How important is this upcoming homestand against the Colorado Rockies, Los Angeles Angels and Chicago Cubs to this team's hopes? And should we be surprised that names including Nick Gonzales, Ji Hwan Bae and Jake Lamb haven't been called up from the minor leagues. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey reacts to the Steelers' decision to decline their fifth-year option on RB Najee Harris' rookie contract. Was it the right move by GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin to wait until the end of the 2024 season to decide how to move forward with their running backs? Was the option just too expensive for a back who's put up ordinary numbers in today's NFL? Will Jaylen Warren simply be a cheaper alternative in 2025?Jason tackles those questions, plus Warren's suggestion that new QB Justin Fields could return kicks should he stay in the No. 2 role behind Russell Wilson. He then talks Pirates and how the upcoming series against the Colorado Rockies is pivotal if the team is going to get back on track offensively. 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 Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko continue to sort through the aftermath of the NFL draft. Will Troy Fautanu start at right tackle and replace Dan Moore Jr. in the lineup when he's ready, as many fans expect? Or could he win the left tackle spot over Broderick Jones, last year's first-round pick? Our duo tackles those questions, then explains why UCF's John Rhys Plumlee and West Virginia's Beanie Bishop are among undrafted free agents to watch as rookie minicamp looms for GM Omar Khan, coach Mike Tomlin and Co. And in the final segment, they discuss whether young DBs Darius Rush, Ryan Watts and Corey Trice Jr. will find their respective niches in the Steelers defense this season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.