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

In his weekly YouTube appearance, Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise joins host Adam Bittner to discuss Steelers draft picks Troy Fautanu and Zach Frazier. How quickly can they be upgrades on 2023 offensive line starters Dan Moore Jr. and Mason Cole? How long after that will they mature into the stalwart pieces of the line that the Steelers hope they can be? And where does fourth-round pick Mason McCormick fit into this conversation? Our duo tackles those questions, the latest on WR trade rumors involving names like the Commanders' Terry McLaurin and the possibility of Cam Sutton returning to Pittsburgh. Then they get into the Pirates' recent offensive struggles. Has hitting coach Andy Haines become a scapegoat for GM Ben Cherington's systemic development failures? Does Cherington deserve to keep his job through the entire season if names including Henry Davis, Oneil Cruz and Jack Suwinski continue to sputter? And why does Paul think it's time to bring up names like Nick Gonzales, Ji Hwan Bae, Jake Lamb and Paul Skenes from the minors, then cut underperformers like Rowdy Tellez loose? 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 tackle swirling trade rumors at the WR position. Could GM Omar Khan swing a trade for a No. 2 option across from George Pickens soon, as pundits including Bryant McFadden have suggested? Or might the process take longer to play out? Is Denver's Courtland Sutton a potentially cheaper option than Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel, San Francisco 49ers standouts the Steelers have been connected to for weeks? And how do names including third-round pick Roman Wilson, former fourth-rounder Calvin Austin and free agent pickups Van Jefferson and Quez Watkins figure into the receiver conversation?Our duo tackles those topics, then ponders whether Najee Harris could get a contract extension or see his fifth-year option exercised this week. Then Pirates insider Andrew Destin stops by to analyze Paul Skenes' latest strong start in the minors and his potential to join the club's rotation sooner or later amid profound struggles for the offense. 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' latest punchless loss, a 5-2 defeat Tuesday against the Oakland Athletics. Is the club's strategy overseen by manager Derek Shelton and GM Ben Cherington of trying to see a lot of pitches flawed? Have key young players including Jack Suwinski and Oneil Cruz gotten worse compared to where they were one and two years ago? What is this club's offensive identity? Jason tackles those questions, reacts to Paul Skenes' latest strong start in the minors and highlights the importance of development successes like Drew O'Connor to the Penguins' future. 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 Penn State football podcast, Post-Gazette Penn State insider Seth Engle welcomes former Nittany Lions linebacker Jason Cabinda to recap the NFL draft for this year's crop of prospects in Happy Valley. Will Olu Fashanu thrive protecting Aaron Rodgers with the New York Jets? What kind of impact can Chop Robinson make for the Miami Dolphins? Was Caedan Wallace's third-round selection by the New England Patriots a mild surprise? And was Adisa Isaac drafted a bit lower than expectations? Our duo tackles those topics and ponders the landing spots of other Penn State NFL hopefuls including Hunter Nourzad, Daequan Hardy, Kalen King and Theo Johnson. Then Jason explains his own undrafted free agent grind, recalls the fun of the 2016 Big Ten championship run and outlines his plans for the year ahead as he looks for his next NFL home. 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 Tej Seth of SumerSports.com to get an analytics-based review of the Steelers' 2024 NFL draft class. Why do numbers gurus see first-round pick Troy Fautanu and third-rounder Payton Wilson as potential steals? Why is third-rounder Roman Wilson's potential range of outcomes a bit more murky? Why are second-round pick Zach Frazier and fourth-rounder Mason McCormick getting solid reviews as well? And how does the analytics community regard Steelers GM Omar Khan's moves, generally speaking? 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, Jason Mackey reacts to the Pirates' latest loss to the Oakland Athletics, in which their offense struggled mightily once again. Is it fair to just blame hitting coach Andy Haines for the struggles of young players including Oneil Cruz and Jack Suwinski? Or do the team's problems run deeper? What can or should manager Derek Shelton change? And is it time minor-league options like Nick Gonzales and Ji Hwan Bae get opportunities in this lineup? Jason tackles those topics, then talks about the changes the Penguins and Steelers need to make in their respective offseasons. 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 football mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Abby Schnable answer reader questions. Among them: How will Kentucky transfer Jaremiah Anglin Jr. help coach Pat Narduzzi's defense amid transfers by prominent names including Dayon Hayes and Solomon DeShields? What other plays is Pitt targeting in the transfer portal? Will Marquis Williams get a chance in the NFL after not receiving a free agent offer in the immediate aftermath of the NFL draft? What is Jeff Capel's ideal next addition on the basketball side? And which player will be the next to step up in a headline grabbing way for the women's volleyball 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 Frist 10 podcast, Post-Gazette columnist Jason Mackey weighs in on the Steelers' draft class. How can coach Mike Tomlin's influence be seen in GM Omar Khan's choices? And what are the biggest questions facing top picks Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier, Roman Wilson and Payton Wilson? Jason tackles those topics, then talks Pirates. Can this offense be fixed? Or will it keep wasting strong starts by the likes of Martin Perez, Jared Jones and even Quinn Priester over the weekend? And how much are bullpen struggles by names including David Bednar and Aroldis Chapman hurting this team's chances of making a run at a playoff spot? 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 and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo react to the Steelers' NFL draft haul. Are first-round pick Troy Fautanu and second-round Zach Frazier likely to slide right into starting roles along the offensive line? What grades do GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin deserve for the class that also includes WR Roman Wilson, LB Payton Wilson, G Mason McCormick, DT Logan Lee and DB Ryan Watts? And is a reunion with Cam Sutton possible amid reports that he's met with the team since his release by the Detroit Lions? 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 their Pirates podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Noah Hiles and Andrew Destin recap the weekend series against the San Francisco Giants and look ahead to the upcoming set against the Oakland Athletics. Can manager Derek Shelton's offense turn around its profound struggles that resulted in just three runs in regulation in three games? How much pressure is on Ke'Bryan Hayes, Bryan Reynolds and Oneil Cruz to be part of the solution? Is a demotion for former first-overall pick Henry Davis inevitable now? Is Rowdy Tellez breaking out of his season-long individual slump? How surprising was Quinn Priester's efficient start Friday night? And is there still reason for concern about closer David Bednar? 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 Steelers insider Brian Batko joins host Adam Bittner to react to the team's picks on Day 3 of the NFL draft. Could fourth-round pick Mason McCormick eventually start at guard if GM Omar Khan decides to move on from James Daniels and Isaac Seumalo in the next couple of years? Does sixth-rounder Logan Lee have the physical tools to become a rotation player on the defensive line alongside Cam Heyward and Keeanu Benton? And where does fellow sixth-rounder Ryan Watts fit into the secondary moving forward? Our duo tackles those questions, and Brian adds thoughts on Day 2 picks Roman Wilson and Payton Wilson, who followed popular choices of Troy Fautanu and Zach Frazier at the top of the draft. 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 recap the Steelers' picks on Day 2 of the NFL draft after they took Washington OT Troy Fautanu on Day 1. What kind of impact can second-round pick Zach Frazier make from Day 1 at the center position? Is third-rounder Roman Wilson ready to be the No. 2 opposite of George Pickens in new coordinator Arthur Smith's offense? What can fellow third-round pick Payton Wilson add to coach Mike Tomlin's linebacker corps alongside Patrick Queen, Elandon Roberts and possibly a healthy Cole Holcomb? And how much credit does GM Omar Khan deserve for waiting for these players to fall instead of trading up to get them? 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 Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo joins assistant sports editor Adam Bittner to react to the Steelers' selection of Washington OT Troy Fautanu on Day 1 of the NFL draft. Will he start from Day 1 at right tackle? Or will he need time to develop like Broderick Jones did a year ago? How soon will Fautanu's selection allow Jones to work from the left side? And where does Dan Moore Jr. fit in this mix? Was Fautanu the tackle GM Omar Khan and Mike Tomlin had their eye on from the start? Or were names like JC Latham, Taliese Fuaga and Amarius Mims higher on their big board? Our duo tackles those questions, then gets into the team's Day 2 needs. Could the Steelers trade up in the second round for a center prospect like Jackson Powers-Johnson or Zach Frazier? Does the run on projected Day 2 receivers like Ricky Pearsall and Xavier Legette add pressure to select guys like Roman Wilson and Malachi Corley while they're available? And are there any other Day 2 names Ray is watching? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey reacts to the Steelers' selection of Washington OT Troy Fautanu in the first round of the NFL draft Thursday night in Detroit. Was tackle the right position to target, given all of the team's other needs -- particularly at center? How big of an asset will it be to have to first-round tackles in Fautanu and 2023 top pick Broderick Jones? And how important is it for GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin to grab a center like Jackson Powers-Johnson or Zach Frazier in the second round Friday? Jason tackles all of those questions and more, then gets into the Pirates. Specifically, he ponders free agent additions Aroldis Chapman and Rowdy Tellez and the reasons why they're off to such slow starts with their new team. 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 Andrew Destin and Noah Hiles react to the club's 7-5 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers on Thursday afternoon, which gave the Pirates a 2-2 split over the four-game series. What is wrong with Aroldis Chapman? Can he find his footing again and become the dominant reliever we saw at the beginning of the year? What does Rowdy Tellez need to do to break out of this slump? Has Oneil Cruz started to gain some momentum? And was Mitch Keller's lack of command a cause for concern? 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 gives his thoughts on the Steelers' wants vs. needs in the NFL draft. Is the hole at center one that simply must be filled by a player like Jackson Powers-Johnson or Graham Barton? Or could this draft class still be a successful one of a less glaring need like tackle is addressed with names like JC Latham, Amarius Mims, Taliese Fuaga or Troy Fautanu? Jason tackles those questions, then pivots to Pirates. Is Paul Skenes' MLB debut creeping forward a bit, possibly to as soon as next weekend? Are changes coming with young players who aren't performing, including Jack Suwinski and Henry Davis? And could we see the return of Nick Gonzales sooner than later, now that he's tearing up Class Triple-A pitching with the Indianapolis Indians? 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 and Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko issue their final NFL mock draft picks ahead of the first round Thursday night in Detroit. Why does Chris think Oregon State OT Taliese Fuaga will still be available when the Steelers pick at No. 20? Might Amarius Mims be the one of the only impact OTs left at that spot, as Brian projects? Why did both of the guys pass on trendy Steelers mock picks like Graham Barton, Jackson Powers-Johnson, and Cooper DeJean? And how do they see the rest of the draft shaking out, from quarterbacks including Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels and Drake Maye to receivers including Marvin Harrison Jr., Malik Nabers and Rome Oduze? 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 their weekly Penn State football podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette/Daily Collegian insider Seth Engle preview the NFL draft for Nittany Lions prospects. Can Olu Fashanu shake of some late whispers from critics about his readiness to earn a top 10 selection? Has Chop Robinson done enough at the NFL combine and Nittany Lions pro day to assuage concerns about his production in college? Is Adisa Isaac underrated? What do the later rounds hold for names like Theo Johnson, Hunter Nourzad, Caedan Wallace, Curtis Jacobs and Daequan Hardy? And did Kalen King and Johnny Dixon make mistakes by skipping the Peach Bowl and leaving college early? 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 Chipped Ham and Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes Andy Phillips, author of "Round Zero: Inside the NFL Draft," to preview this year's event. Why do the Steelers' strategies of finding receivers in middle rounds, Hall of Fame centers and consistently great EDGE rushers stand the test of time? How is the draft process changing, and how do the Steelers, coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan fit into that? And how many of the Steelers' top potential targets will be available at No. 20? Will the likes of Tailese Fuaga, JC Latham, Troy Fautanu and Olu Fashanu all be gone? Will that level them with Georgia OT Amarius Mims? Or could they be forced to draft a center like Jackson Powers-Johnson or Graham Barton? And should Steelers fans root for QB names like Michael Penix Jr., J.J. McCarthy and Bo Nix to go early to avoid that fate? 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 their weekly Pitt football mailbag video, Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Abby Schnable answer reader questions. Among them: Will coach Pat Narduzzi replace the departed Dayon Hayes and Solomon DeShields via the transfer portal? How can the Panthers hold off programs capable of offering their players better NIL offers? And on the basketball front, how much can transfer additions Cam Corhen and Damian Dunn help Jeff Capel's squad? 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 Indianapolis Indians communications director Cheyne Reiter to analyze the dominant start that Pirates No. 1 overall MLB draft pick Paul Skenes is off to in the minor leagues. What's made him so effective in his early starts? And how is he interacting with fans and teammates in the Indians clubhouse? Our duo tackles those topics and more as Pirates fans await his pending MLB debut. 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 discuss the Steelers' trade options in the NFL draft. Could they trade up for names like Washington OT Troy Fautanu or Oregon State OT Tailese Fuaga? Or trade back from No. 20 overall in the first round, depending upon which of their targets they feel will still be available? Could they move their top pick for a player like San Francisco 49ers receivers Brandon Aiyuk or Deebo Samuel? Or Minnesota Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson? What are the top questions facing GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin heading into the draft? And what surprises could they have in store on Day 2? 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 daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey breaks down an ugly weekend for the Pirates against the Boston Red Sox and their current six-game losing streak. What issues are fixable offensively? And which are more lasting red flags? How can SS Oneil Cruz get back on track? What about OF Jack Suwinski? And is C Henry Davis in danger of being option to the minor leagues when Yasmani Grandal is activated from the injured list? Jason tackles those questions, then talks a little Penguins. What did he make of GM Kyle Dubas' season-ending comments Friday? Why don't Dubas and coach Mike Sullivan appear predisposed to make any major changes despite missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs? And why do Sullivan and Dubas seem to be on different pages regarding goalies Tristan Jarry and Alex Nedeljkovic? 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 Andrew Destin and Noah Hiles react to the club's 6-1 loss to the Boston Red Sox on Sunday that culminated a three-game sweep for the visitors. What's wrong with shortstop Oneil Cruz, whose OPS has slipped below the .600 mark? What's the reason for the club's general lack of power at the plate? What's caused 1B Rowdy Tellez to get off to such a slow start after he was signed in MLB free agency? Can anyone other than Bryan Reynolds and Connor Joe get momentum at the plate? And is Quinn Priester's ugly start Friday a cause for concern? 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 Post-Gazette's Adam Bittner, Christopher Carter and Brian Batko react to the week in Steelers mock drafts, specifically numerous projections that GM Omar Khan will select Duke's Graham Barton as his first-round pick because of his versatility to play guard and center. Why are national pundits so focused on guard as a need while James Daniels and Isaac Seumalo are both under contract? What are the chances Barton would play any other position than center here? And hat are the chances we could see the Steelers chase a guard like TCU's Brandon Coleman in the later rounds? Our duo tackles those questions, then dives into mock draft selections at other positions. Why is so much consensus building around Michigan WR Roman Wilson as a potential Day 2 fit? Is there any chance Penn State OT Olu Fashanu could fall to the Steelers at No. 20? Why are we seeing numerous mock picks for EDGE players like Washington's Bralen Trice even as the Steelers have T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig in the fold? And are the guys interested in secondary options like Auburn's D.J. James, Wake Forest's Caelen Carson, Louisville's Jarvis Brownlee Jr. and Utah's Cole Bishop? 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 Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, Christopher Carter and Steelers insider Brian Batko record live from Mike's Beer Bar to preview the upcoming NFL draft. Who is the best player among those to visit Pittsburgh during the pre-draft period? And what is the worst-case scenario for the Steelers? Be sure to join us LIVE during Rounds 1 and 2 of the NFL draft on April 25 and 26th, as the Post-Gazette's team of experts give you the ultimate second-screen experience. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In his daily First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey answers reader questions. Among them: When will the Pirates call up Paul Skenes to see his first Major League action? And when will former call-ups including Nick Gonzales, Liover Peguero and Ji Hawn Bae get their next chances now that they're hitting well in the minors?He also gets into season-ending Penguins questions. Which players from the current lineup should be sent packing after the team missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs this week? Is there any chance that GM Kyle Dubas moves on from core players including Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang and Erik Karlsson?And on the Steelers front, who's the most likely first round pick heading into next week's NFL draft? Is it Oregon's Jackson Powers-Johnson? And what are the odds GM Omar Khan finishes a deal for reported trade target Brandon Aiyuk of the San Francisco 49ers? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this week's Pirates podcast, insiders Noah Hiles and Andrew Destin break down the good and the bad from the Mets series and look ahead to the Red Sox. Plus, are they playing it too safe with Jared Jones' innings limit? 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 discuss the Steelers' low win total projections -- right around 8.5 at most major sports books. Is the betting world underrating GM Omar Khan's highly praised moves for players like Russell Wilson, Justin Fields and Patrick Queen? How much could a trade for a solid, veteran No. 2 receiver like Brandon Aiyuk, Deebo Samuel or Justin Jefferson boost the total? What about a solid NFL draft class that mimics last year's success stories with Broderick Jones, Joey Porter Jr. and Keeanu Benton? Our duo tackles those questions, then talks some Penguins and Pirates. Is it time to worry about young core pieces like Oneil Cruz, Jack Suwinski, Jared Triolo and Henry Davis, with all of them hitting .234 or worse? And is it time for Penguins GM Kyle Dubas to blow up the team's core of Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang after missing the playoffs? 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 hot topics in Pittsburgh sports.Is it time for Penguins GM Kyle Dubas to make a bold move and trade G Tristan Jarry after Alex Nedeljkovic dominated the team's net down the stretch of the season, which ended Wednesday without a Stanley Cup Playoffs berth?On the Steelers and NFL draft front, should Oregon C Jackson Powers-Johnson be viewed as a chance for GM Omar Khan to correct the mistakes of missing on past center prospects like the Kansas City Chiefs' Creed Humphrey and the Baltimore Ravens' Tyler Linderbaum?And what must change for the Pirates against the Boston Red Sox this weekend after dropping a road series to the New York Mets? Can names like Oneil Cruz and Henry Davis get back on track? Jason 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 Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, host Christopher Carter welcomes former Steelers Pro Bowl linebacker Ryan Shazier to discuss the team's tradition of defensive leadership. How was it passed down to him from Super Bowl champions like coach Mike Tomlin, and cornerbacks William Gay and Will Allen? How have stars like T.J. Watt and Cam Heyward carried the tradition forward in recent years? And how does a young standout like Joey Porter Jr. fit into it having grown up around the team? Our duo tackles those topics. Then later, Christopher welcomes Noah Hiles to discuss the state of Pitt football amid names including Dayon Hayes, Christian Veilleux and Solomon DeShields entering the transfer portal. And Matt Vensel stops by to analyze what comes next for the Penguins after they were eliminated from Stanley Cup Playoffs contention on Tuesday night. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On Jason Mackey's First 10 podcast, the Post-Gazette sports columnist reacts to the Penguins being eliminated from Stanley Cup playoffs contention and ponders what comes next for the club. Is coach Mike Sullivan safe despite not winning a playoff series with the core of Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang in six years? Could defenseman Erik Karlsson be moved by GM Kyle Dubas over the offseason? What about goalie Tristan Jarry after he was benched in favor of Alex Nedeljkovic over the final weeks of the regular season? Jason tackles those questions and more, including: Was Pirates manager Derek Shelton correct to pull starter Jared Jones after five innings in a loss to the New York Mets on Tuesday? What's happened to the club's offense? And how has South Fayette prospect Justin Watson found himself in so many Super Bowls lately? 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 Penn State football podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette/Daily Collegian insider Seth Engle react to Saturday's Blue-White game at Beaver Stadium, and news that WR KeAndre Lambert-Smith is entering the transfer portal. What went wrong in that relationship? Is Tre Wallace ready to be a dependable option in his place? Will coach James Franklin need to dip into the transfer portal again for talent? Or does he have enough with names like Ohio State transfer Julian Fleming, Omari Evans, Liam Clifford and Kaden Saunders in the fold? Our duo tackles those topics and questions across the roster. How did quarterbacks Drew Allar, Beau Pribula and Ethan Grunkemeyer look in their first game action under new OC Andy Kotelnicki? Is there room in the backfield behind Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen for Blue-White standouts including Cam Wallace and Quinton Martin Jr.? Is A.J. Harris ready to make an impact in the secondary after transferring from Georgia? And what does the commitment of 4-star Alabama running back Alvin Henderson mean for Penn State recruiting in SEC territory? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette Penguins insiders Matt Vensel and Andrew Destin give their thoughts on how the team's late-season hot streak and push for an improbably Stanley Cup playoffs berth should inform GM Kyle Dubas' decisions in the offseason. Should Alex Nedeljokovic be brought back as the starting goalie? Does that open the door for a trade of Tristan Jarry? Has Sidney Crosby proven he can still be the foundation of a Cup-contending team with his dominance down the stretch? Have players including Drew O'Connor and Jack St. Ivany established themselves as building blocks for the future? And what are the chances the Penguins get the help they need with Detroit Red Wings and Washington Capitals losses on Tuesday night? 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 welcomes Emory Hunt of Football Gameplan and CBS Sports to analyze best fits for the Steelers in the NFL draft. Why does Emory like Florida State's Keon Coleman as an off-the-radar choice at WR? How would Florida's Ricky Pearsall pair as the No. 2 to George Pickens? Could Iowa CB Cooper DeJean still make sense despite the needs along the offensive line? And where does Washington's Troy Fautanu belong in the tackle conversation for GM Omar Khan after he became one of the latest to visit the Steelers this week? 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 First 10 podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey weighs in on the Penguins' goalie situation after a 4-2 win against the Nashville Predators on Monday night. Specifically, what does Mike Sullivan's choice of Alex Nedeljkovic over Tristan Jarry mean for the future? Does the team view Nedeljkovic simply as a hot hand to help its Stanley Cup playoff push? Or has he made Jarry and his lucrative contract expendable come the offseason? Then later, Jason gets into some Pirates and Pitt topics. Is it too soon to worry about SS Oneil Cruz and his slow start to the season at the plate? And what does it mean for the Panthers that Dayon Hayes has entered the transfer portal? 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: Can Florida State transfer Cam Corhen be a legit start for coach Jeff Capel's squad at center? Will Houston transfer Damian Dunn be the next addition via the portal? Which other prospects could follow? And on the football side, how innovative did new coordinator Kade Bell's offense look in the Blue-Gold game Saturday at Acrisure Stadium? Did it live up to the hype or disappoint? 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, presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes a trio of Post-Gazette insiders to talk all things Steelers, Penguins and Pirates. Steelers beat writer Ray Fittipaldo is first to stop by to analyze the final week of NFL draft visits by top prospects. Could Alabama's Terrion Arnold and Kool-Aid McKinstry plus Duke's Graham Barton be among those who stop in Pittsburgh this week? Do names including Clemson's Nate Wiggins and Georgia's Amarius Mims have an edge after meeting with the Steelers at their facility, the NFL combine and their respective pro days? And how could Michigan's J.J. McCarthy and Washington's Michael Penix Jr. be relevant to GM Omar Khan's draft plans, even if he has no plans to select them? Later, Noah Hiles stops by with insight on a busy weekend for the Pirates, which included strong pitching from names like Jared Jones, Mitch Keller and Bailey Falter, plus the 300th home run of Andrew McCutchen's storied career. And Matt Vensel previews a do-or-die game for the Penguins on Monday night against the Nashville Predators. 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 Andrew Destin and Noah Hiles react to the club's weekend series against the Philadelphia Phillies and look ahead to this week's series against the New York Mets. Was Jack Suwinski's home run off Zack Wheeler on Sunday a sign that he's breaking out of his season-opening funk? Is closer David Bednar figuring things out after blowing a handful of save opportunities to open 2024? Is the rotation showing its potential after strong starts by Bailey Falter, Mitch Keller and Jared Jones over the weekend? And how will the pitching staff deal with the loss of Marco Gonzales to an injury? Should GM Ben Cherington promote a prospect like Quinn Priester or Paul Skenes? Or are bullpen games the best option? 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 First 10 podcast for Monday, April 15, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey reacts to a busy weekend in Pittsburgh sports. Did the Penguins' Saturday night loss to the Boston Bruins prove they are fatally flawed, even if Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Co. find a way to slip into the Stanley Cup playoff field? And should coach Mike Sullivan go with Tristan Jarry or Alex Nedeljkovic in net for Monday's pivotal contest against the Nashville Predators? On the Pirates front, what's the significance of Andrew McCutchen's 300th career home run on Sunday against the Philadelphia Phillies? And could Marco Gonzales' injury mean we'll see Quinn Priester or Paul Skenes in the rotation next? Then Jason closes the episode with thoughts on Pitt's Blue-Gold spring game. How did new OC Kade Bell's offense look in his Acrisure Stadium debut? And how does he feel about coach Pat Narduzzi naming Nate Yarnell the starting QB over Alabama transfer Eli Holstein? 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 Steelers NFL mock draft tracker video, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette insider Ray Fittipaldo react to the week in projected selections for the team from around the Internet. Why is Duke's Graham Barton becoming a very trendy pick, notably for ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr.? Is he really in the conversation of best center available with Oregon's Jackson Powers-Johnson? Is Notre Dame's Blake Fisher a Day 2 tackle option who could both represent an upgrade over Dan Moore Jr. and give GM Omar Khan more flexibility with his first-round pick? And how plug-and-play ready is Georgia's Sedrick Van Pran-Granger? Our duo tackles those question along the offensive line, then gets into some other positions. Are the Steelers better off attempting to draft a No. 2 receiver? Or trading for a veteran like Brandon Aiyuk, Deebo Samuel or Justin Jefferson? Is Washington's Jalen McMillarn -- Kiper's pick for the Steelers in the second round -- a good option at No. 51? What about Georgia's Ladd McConkey? Could there be a fit with the Steelers for Pitt's M.J. Devonshire? And is Florida State Jordan Travis a solid options as a development QB behind Russell Wilson and Justin Fields? 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, April 12 episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko to break down ideal first-round scenarios for the team in the NFL draft. How do things need to fall for GM Omar Khan to get his choice of ideal fits including Oregon State's Tailese Fuaga, Alabama's JC Latham, Iowa's Cooper DeJean, Georgia's Amarius Mims, Alabama's Terrion Arnold and Oregon's Jackson Powers-Johnson? And if all of those names are available, could Khan opt to trade back and add Day 2 draft capital to his arsenal? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Including: Should Najee Harris get an extension with a decision on his fifth-year option looming? And why does Brian Have Adonai Mitchell of Texas, Ladd McConkey of Georgia, Roman Wilson of Michigan and Ricky Pearsall of Florida at the top of his list of realistic receiver options for the Steelers? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Jason Mackey's First 10, we take a look at the legendary performance from Penguins star Sidney Crosby as he's willed his team back into playoff contention. Plus, how the Pirates must improve and Derek Shelton's surprising comments about David Bednar. 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 analyze the Steelers' moves in NFL free agency. Was GM Omar Khan's early flurry of moves to acquire Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, Patrick Queen and Donte Jackson via the Diontae Johnson trade enough heading into the NFL draft? Or should he have done more to address needs at tackle, center, receiver and cornerback to give the draft plan more flexibility? Did he box himself into needing to pick a right tackle like Amarius Mims, Tailese Fuaga or JC Latham in the first round? Or is he quietly more confident than the public about internal options like Dan Moore Jr., Darius Rush, Cory Trice and Nate Herbig?Our duo tackles those questions and more, including: How should manager Derek Shelton handle his closer situation with David Bednar struggling and Aroldis Chapman throwing well? How important is it for the club to get Jack Suwinski on track? What should we make of Andrew McCutchen's early struggles? And do we really need to see this Penguins team in the playoffs after a full season of depth players failing to meaningfully help stars including Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin? 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 Penguins podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Matt Vensel and Andrew Destin break down the hottest topics around the team. Among them: How has Evgeni Malkin found another gear during the team's recent playoff push? How has Michael Bunting and his aggressive style given the Penguins a much needed jolt of energy? What does it mean for the Penguins to get contributions from players not named Sidney Crosby? And is Alex Nedeljkovic here to stay in the Penguins' net? 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 their weekly Penn State football podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette/Daily Collegian insider Seth Engle preview the Blue-White spring game Saturday at Beaver Stadium. They tackle questions including: -How will Drew Allar look in his first on-field action under new offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki? -Is there pressure on No. 2 QB Beau Pribula with true freshman Ethan Grunkemeyer generating buzz? -What can we expect from Julian Fleming in his Nittany Lions debut? And will returning wideouts including KeAndre Lambert-Smith, Harrison Wallace, Omari Evans, Malik McClain, Liam Clifford and Kaden Saunders show improvement? -How will Abdul Carter look in his switch from linebacker to defensive end? -How is the corner group shaping up now that corners A.J. Harris and Jalen Kimber have been added to the mix since the Peach Bowl? -What's the state of the offensive line with numerous competitions unfolding there? -And what should we make of data science projections that have Penn State at No. 2 in the Big Ten heading into 2024, just behind new conference member Oregon, led by Dillon Gabriel? 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 weighs in on the hottest topics in Pittsburgh sports. Did Pirates closer David Bednar deserve to be booed at PNC Park after blowing his third save in four chances to open 2024 in a 5-3 loss to the Detroit Tigers on Tuesday? Why does starter Martin Perez remind Jason of former Pirates Francisco Cervelli and Francisco Liriano? Does Edward Olivares deserve playing time over Jack Suwinski? Should Aroldis Chapman get a look at closer if Bednar continues to struggle? And on the hockey front, when should Penguins coach Mike Sullivan look to get Tristan Jarry a start over Alex Nedeljkovic? Has Michael Bunting been the linemate Evgeni Malkin has needed? And what are this team's chances of slipping into the Stanley Cup Playoffs with four regular season games to go. Jason 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 Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Aaron Schatz, FTN Fantasy's chief analytics officer, to break down the Steelers' advanced metrics. What do they say about whether Russell Wilson and/or Justin Fields can be upgrades at QB over what the team had with Kenny Pickett, Mason Rudolph and Mitch Trubisky? Is Wilson washed up at 35? Or just more ordinary than earlier in his career? And is the run-based offense he'll be running under new coordinator Arthur Smith a proper fit with the pass-heaviness of the modern NFL? Our duo tackles those topics, then breaks down whether the defense's additions of LB Patrick Queen, S DeShon Elliott and CB Donte Jackson in NFL free agency and trades will be enough to keep the unit ranked in the top 10 this coming season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Warning: This episode includes strong language at times. On his weekly Chipped Ham and Football podcast, Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko welcomes OL Masterminds' Duke Manyweather to get his insight on Pittsburgh offensive linemen he's worked with -- past and present -- and NFL draft prospects GM Omar Khan may be looking to select at the end of this month. Does Dan Moore Jr. have any chance of holding onto a starting tackle job this offseason? Why didn't Kendrick Green and Kevin Dotson last here before finding success with the Texans and Rams, respectively? And what was Mason Cole's undoing at center?Our duo tackles those topics. Then Duke offers thoughts on NFL draft prospects including Jackson Powers-Johnson, Graham Barton, Zach Frazier, Dominick Puni 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 their weekly Pitt sports mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Abby Schnable answer reader questions. Among them: What does Bub Carrington's departure for the NBA draft mean for coach Jeff Capel and his basketball program? How does Carrington's departure change the Pitt recruiting strategy in the NCAA transfer portal? Who are the key football players to watch in the Blue-Gold game, in which new offensive coordinator Kade Bell will get his first chance to call plays with quarterbacks Nate Yarnell and Eli Holstein? And what were Abby's thoughts on the women's Final Four in Cleveland, where South Carolina defeated Caitlin Clark and Iowa for the national championship? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.