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

Post-Gazette Pirates insiders Andrew Destin and Noah Hiles break down the team's series victory against the Baltimore Orioles and preview the upcoming series against the Detroit Tigers. Are continued contributions from depth players including Connor Joe, Michael A. Taylor and Joey Bart necessary for manager Derek Shelton's club to build on its 8-2 start? Are starters Bailey Falter and Marco Gonzales showing signs that they can be better than expected? And is Jack Suwinski in danger of losing a regular role in the lineup to players like Edward Olivares amid his slow start at the plate? 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 the Monday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to break down the latest updates to the offensive line section of their NFL draft big board for the team. Is Oregon C Jackson Powers-Johnson falling into the Day 2 range? What has Duke's Graham Barton surpassed West Virginia's Zach Frazier as the No. 2 center in the class? And do the Steelers like Oregon State's Tailese Fuaga best among realistic tackle options, ahead of names like Alabama's JC Latham, Georgia's Amarius Mims and Oklahoma's Tyler Guyton? Our duo tackles those questions. Then Chris welcomes Pirates insider Noah Hiles to react to the team's hot start to 2024. Is the success built to last? Or could manager Derek Shelton's group collapse again like it did in 2023, when it posted a 20-8 record in April? And when are we going to see the next wave of prospects including names like Paul Skenes? 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 Jason Mackey breaks down the Pirates' series win over the Orioles in dramatic fashion. They have started the season 8-2 and done so without playing their best baseball. Could the Pirates get even better as the season goes on? Plus a quick look at the incredible resurgence of the Penguins as they are now firmly in playoff contention. 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 podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette insider Brian Batko analyze the week in projected picks for the team from around the internet. Does Tailese Fuaga deserve another look as a tackle option given his experience level compared to less polished prospects like Amarius Mims and Tyler Guyton? Is Graham Barton a rising option alongside Jackson Powers-Johnson at center despite playing most of his college career at tackle? Are Keon Coleman and Brenden Rice names worth knowing at receiver? And how do they compare to frequent Steelers mock targets like Malachi Corley, Roman Wilson and Xavier Leggette? Is Blake Fisher toward the top of the list if the Steelers wait until Day 2 to address tackle? Should GM Omar Khan have any interest in Kansas EDGE Austin Booker as an inexperienced prospect with potential? And is there any room in the draft plan for Iowa star Tory Taylor following the signing of Cameron Johnston? 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 the Friday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast presented by Mike's Beer Bar, Christopher Carter and Brian Batko consider the idea that the Steelers could re-sign center Mason Cole and Patrick Peterson if the NFL draft doesn't shake out the way they'd like. Will the Steelers wait to draft a center, as many mocks have them doing? Plus, what's the deal with all the former Falcons signing? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pirates insiders Noah Hiles and Andrew Destin break down a hot 6-1 start to the season as the team heads home to face the mighty Orioles. Is Michael A. Taylor a diamond find in free agency? And should we be worried about Henry Davis' slow start? 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 discuss the recruiting loss of Royersford, Pa., QB prospect Matt Zollers -- rated four stars and ranked the No. 1 in the state -- to Missouri. What does the news say about coach James Franklin's ability to retain in-state talent and attract impact players at the most important position? Is this a natural result of the struggles the offense showed last season under fired coordinator Mike Yurcich? And could Zollers be a player Penn State circles back to in the transfer portal later, as it did with Julian Fleming and Nolan Rucci this offseason? Our duo tackles those questions, then reacts to the latest from spring practice. How is Fleming fitting in with his new team and handling the pressure of improving Penn State's production at receiver? What's different about QB Drew Allar's game under new coordinator Andy Kotelnicki? And how is new coordinator Tom Allen looking to deploy his depth at safety on the defensive side with Jaylen Reed, Zakee Wheatley and K.J. Winston? 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 which Steelers are under the most pressure in 2024. Is Russell Wilson the obvious choice as the presumptive starting quarterback? Do depth issues put players like Joey Porter Jr. and George Pickens squarely in the spotlight? Does Justin Fields need to impress quickly to justify a contract extension? Is it time to expect turnovers from Minkah Fitzpatrick now that DeShon Elliott and Patrick Queen look poised to fill holes in run defense? And does Queen's big free agent deal immediately bring scrutiny with it? Our duo explores those topics and more. Among them: Is the Pirates' 5-1 start another mirage amid issues with the starting rotation? Or can Mitch Keller, Martin Perez, Bailey Falter, Marco Gonzales and Jared Jones turn things around enough to fight for a playoff berth. And over at Pitt, is criticism of Bub Carrington's NBA draft announcement warranted? Or is it what coach Jeff Capel needed to do to see his program to top prospects as a viable path to the pros? 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 Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to analyze his third seven-round NFL mock draft of the offseason. Is Amarius Mims starting to look like the tackle who makes the most sense after his pre-draft visit with the team? Is Sedrick Van Pran, Mims' teammate at Georgia, the best value at center as a projected late Day 2 pick? Would Western Kentucky's Malachi Corley be a good fit for OC Arthur Smith's new offensive, given his versatility? And why are Rutgers CB Max Melton, LSU DL Maason Smith, Texas ILB Jaylan Ford and Texas A&M S Demani Richardson among names to watch in the later rounds? 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 assistant sports editor Adam Bittner to analyze the PFF grades of the team's recent free agent and trade acquisitions. Is Russell Wilson really that much better analytically than Kenny Pickett, the guy he's replacing? Where does Justin Fields need to improve to present a serious challenge to Wilson as the starter? Does Patrick Queen's stat profile show impact despite an average overall grade? Can DeShon Elliott unlock Minkah Fitzpatrick's playmaking ability with his own proven talent for stepping up against the run? And are fans and media sleeping on Donte Jackson's ability to help the secondary considering he posted the same exact PFF score as Joey Porter Jr. in 2023? 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 weekly Pitt basketball mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Abby Schnable answer reader questions. Among them: What does coach Jeff Capel have to do to take the next step of having his team compete for national championships? Does Pitt have enough in it's NIL budgets to keep top talent including Jaland Lowe, Bub Carrington and Ishmael Leggett, plus add legit pieces around them? What are the chances Capel can land East Carolina's Brandon Johnson and/or Louisville's Brandon Huntley-Hatfield via the NCAA transfer portal? And how does Blake Hinson rank on the list of Pitt's best players over the last 25 years? 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: Reactions to Jake Guentzel's return to the PPG Paints Arena ice with the Carolina Hurricanes; analysis of the state of the goaltending tandem now that Alex Nedeljkovic has started four consecutive games in place of Tristan Jarry; first impressions of prospect Sam Poulin after he finally received the call to the NHL; and thoughts on Kris Letang after a rotten month for the star defenseman. 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 discuss the team's 4-0 start after a weekend sweep of the Miami Marlins. Is it time for hitting coach Andy Haines to get some credit with players like Bryan Reynolds, Ke'Bryan Hayes, Oneil Cruz and Michael A. Taylor hitting the ball well? Is there reason for concern about the rotation after sketchy starts by Mitch Keller, Martin Perez and Bailey Falter? And can the bullpen including David Bednar and Aroldis Chapman continue to pick up the slack? Our duo tackles those topics and looks ahead to the next series against the Washington Nationals. 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, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to ponder the team's trade options ahead of the NFL draft. Does it make sense for GM Omar Khan to move up or down, based on the team's needs on the offensive line and at receiver and cornerback? Or should they stay put? And what type of trade is more likely if one happens? Our duo tackles those topics, then moves on to pre-draft visits. What should we make of names who've already stopped by like Malachi Corley and Darius Robinson? Should we expect other prospects Roman Wilson, JC Latham and Jackson Powers-Johnson to join those guys on the list of visitors soon? And which positions do the Steelers least need to invest draft capital? 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 podcast, host Adam Bittner and Post-Gazette insider Ray Fittipaldo recap the week in projected picks for the team from around the Internet. Are signs pointing toward a Day 2 wide receiver pick as selections at that position begin to dominate mocks. If so, why are names including Western Kentucky's Malachi Corley, South Carolina's Xavier Legette, Texas' Adonai Mitchell and Michigan's Roman Wilson coming up frequently? And is the lack of depth in the tackle market pointing toward a Day 1 pick of top options including Alabama's JC Latham and Georgia's Amarius Mims. Our duo tackles those questions and more. Including: Is Florida State's Renardo Green a perfect Day 2 fit with the Steelers' needs at cornerback? Could a guard like Kansas State's Dominick Puni make sense even though the roster appears set at those spots for 2024? And is there room for a safety like Kamren Kinchens after the signing of DeShon Elliott in NFL free agency? 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 Brian Batko discuss the Steelers' options in the trade market ahead of the NFL draft. Could the team's depth on the defensive line allow GM Omar Khan to trade a player like DeMarvin Leal or Larry Ogunjobi for some extra draft capital? And Does Nick Herbig's emergence at EDGE rusher potentially make a player like Alex Highsmith expendable and an attractive piece to move for an early pick? Our duo tackles those topics, looks back at how draft busts including Kenny Pickett, Devin Bush, Terrell Edmunds impacted the current roster, and ponders whether coach Mike Tomlin has been too loyal or not loyal enough to certain players. 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 assistant sports editor Adam Bittner react to the Pirates' opening day win against the Miami Marlins. Was Oneil Cruz's late homer a sign that he can be a clutch hitter for this team? Is there reason for concern about Mitch Keller, who pitched inefficiently, or David Bednar, who was unavailable to serve as the closer late in the game? And did the bullpen's strong first outing prove what an asset players like Aroldis Chapman can be this season? 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 his weekly YouTube appearance, Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise joins host Adam Bitner ponder the Steelers' QB situation in 2025 and beyond. Could the Dallas Cowboys' Dak Prescott be an option for GM Omar Khan if Russell Wilson and Justin Fields struggle in their one-year stints with the Steelers? Or would he cost too much money on a team with numerous big contracts? What's the threshold for success Wilson and Fields will need to meet to stay in Pittsburgh past this season? And could we see a short extension for Fields sooner than later? Our duo tackles those topics and more. Among them: Was it wise for Khan to pass on trading for former Chiefs cornerback L'Jarius Sneed? Does Josh Reynolds' signing with Denver put more pressure on signing former Pitt standout Tyler Boyd? Then later, Paul and Adam look ahead to Pirates opening day. What's Paul's pick for a win total? What's his level of belief in the rotation of Mitch Keller, Bailey Falter, Marco Gonzales, Jared Jones and Martin Perez? What are reasonable expectations for offensive hopes Oneil Cruz, Henry Davis and Ke'Bryan Hayes? And what win threshold do GM Ben Cherington and manager Derek Shelton need to hit to keep their jobs for 2025? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the Pitching In baseball podcast, Post-Gazette Pirates insider Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner the preview the club's 2024 season ahead of opening day Thursday against the Miami Marlins. What grade does GM Ben Cherington deserve for this offseason, in which he acquired starters Marco Gonzales and Martin Perez but still has a rotation that lacks depth behind them and Mitch Keller? Why was the club comfortable breaking camp with No. 3 rated prospect Jared Jones on the roster but not No. 1 overall MLB draft pick Paul Skenes? And when will Skenes arrive in the big leagues? Our duo tackles those questions, the offense's potential to be productive with a healthy Oneil Cruz back in the lineup and predictions for win totals, placement in the National League Central division and wild-card races, etc. 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 discuss NFL free agency and react to news from the league's owners meetings. Is GM Omar Khan setting up a bigger move with depth signings like Cordarrelle Patterson, Quez Watkins and Dean Lowry? What does the teams list of Top 30 prospect visits -- which includes names like Ricky Pearsall, Darius Robinson, Xavier Legette, Taliese Fuaga and Malachi Corley so far -- tell us about Khan's NFL draft plans? And what is the impact of the NFL's rule changes on the Steelers? Does Patterson give them a chance to excel in the world of the revamped kickoff? 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 Pitt basketball mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette insider Christopher Carter answers reader questions. Among them: What's coach Jeff Capel's transfer portal plan following the loss of Federiko Federiko and Will Jeffress? Why has the team been less busy in landing portal talent than last year? Can Capel keep top players like Jaland Lowe and Bub Carrington in Pittsburgh without a big NIL push? And will the ACC's March Madness success help conference teams like Pitt to avoid snubs next season? 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 welcomes the Philadelphia Inquirer's EJ Smith to analyze the NFL offseason. How much can the Monday signing of former Eagles wideout Quez Watkins bolster the Steelers' depth at that position? What does Watkins have to offer? And does GM Omar Khan need to make another move to add to the group? Later, they discuss the reaction to the Kenny Pickett trade on the eastern side of the state. Why did Eagles fans initially not love the move for their team? Would they have preferred to see their team acquire Justin Fields to back up Jalen Hurts? And has Pickett become a more popular backup in the days since the trade? 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 weekly Penguins podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Andrew Destin and Matt Vensel ponder what GM Kyle Dubas can learn about his team in its remaining games this season now that Stanley Cup playoff hopes look slim. Which prospects could get promoted from the minors for looks at the NHL level? Which have a chance to stick on the roster alongside stars like Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang and Erik Karlsson? Will 2019 draft pick Sam Poulin finally get a chance? And to what degree will coach Mike Sullivan focus on continuing to win games? 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, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Brian Batko to analyze coach Mike Tomlin's comments at the NFL owners' meetings over the weekend. Will Justin Fields really get a chance to compete with Russell Wilson for the starting QB role? Or would Wilson have to perform horribly in spring workouts and training camp to lose the job? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Including: What are the team's remaining options at center a couple of weeks into NFL free agency? Could they still sign a veteran? Or are draft options like Oregon's Jackson Powers-Johnson and West Virginia's Zach Frazier more likely? And what should we make of Tomlin's comments about the motivations for the Diontae Johnson trade? 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 insider Brian Batko recap the week in Steelers NFL mock drafts. Are top wideout prospects like LSU's Brian Thomas Jr. plus Adonai Mitchell and Xavier Worthy of Texas good fits as No. 2 receivers across from George Pickens, especially if GM Omar Khan doesn't make a move on rumored interest in names like Brandon Aiyuk, Deebo Samuel and Justin Jefferson on the trade market? Or are projected later-round options like Florida's Ricky Pearsall and Alabama's Jermaine Burton better fits with what the team is trying to do in first-year Arthur Smith's new offense? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Would drafting Oregon C Jackson Powers-Johnson in the first round limit the Steelers to find impact at other positions of need too much, especially when names like West Virginia's Zach Frazier could be available later? Or has center been a weakness for too long not to address in a major way in 2024? Do names like South Carolina's Spencer Rattler, Florida State's Jordan Travis and Tennessee's Joe Milton make sense as later-round QB options? And has cornerback faded as a need to be addressed in the first round? 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, Steelers insider Brian Batko joins Christopher Carter to take a closer look at the quarterback issues. After Kenny Pickett flamed out, is it fair to question if the team is bad at developing quarterbacks? And who could they have taken instead of Pickett in the 2022 draft? 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 trade rumors surrounding Brandon Aiyuk joining the Steelers in a sign-and-trade deal. Post-Gazette insider Gerry Dulace reporters there's "a chance" the move could happen. If it does, would it earn GM Omar Khan an A+ grade for his work in NFL free agency and the trade market? What if he acquired other rumored names including Deebo Samuel and Justin Jefferson? How should draft options including Brian Thomas Jr., Adonai Mitchell and Xavier Worthy impact Khan's decision making at the position? And what other moves should Khan consider making before the draft. Our duo tackles those topics as well as Kenny Pickett's exit amid moves for Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. Has all of the criticism of Pickett been fair? Or have some begun to pile on and make it too personal on the way out? Then later, Adam and Paul get into Pitt's NCAA snub. Does coach Jeff Capel deserve more criticism for the poor out-of-conference schedule that cost his team? And does his decision to kill the City Game rivalry with Duquesne reflect poorly in that context? 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 college basketball show, Post-Gazette insiders Noah Hiles and Abby Schnable preview the March Madness of the NCAA tournament from a Pittsburgh perspective. What are the odds coach Keith Dambrot and stars Dae Dae Grant and Jimmy Clark can lead 11th-seeded Duquesne to an upset of BYU in this year's bracket? What will happen in the Pittsburgh matchups of Creighton vs. Akron, Kentucky vs. Oakland, N.C. State vs. Texas Tech and Oregon vs. South Carolina? And what are Noah and Abby's picks to reach the Final Four? 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 the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Kevin Oestrecher of Ravens Wire and Locked On Ravens to analyze the NFL free agency signings of Patrick Queen and DeShon Elliott. Just how good can Queen be on his own at MLB, without a star like Roquan Smith next to him? Can he prove that he's one of the best in the league in coach Mike Tomlin's defense? What will Elliott bring to the secondary alongside Minkah Fitzpatrick in his safety spot? And which AFC North team has made the biggest free agency splash? Is it the Ravens with RB Derrick Henry? The Browns with WR Jerry Jeudy? The Bengals with OT Trent Brown? Or is it the Steelers with GM Omar Khan's moves at quarterback with Russell Wilson, Justin Fields and Kenny Pickett? 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 Sean Hammond of Shaw Local/Bears Insider to give his perspective on the Justin Fields trade. Is Fields prepared to be a backup after starting for Chicago the last few seasons? What can he learn under the wing of presumed starter Russell Wilson, signed last week in NFL free agency? What kind of presence will he be in coach Mike Tomlin's locker room? And is the conditional sixth-round pick the Bears accepted in form GM Omar Khan exchange for him reflective of the talent Fields has to offer? 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 their weekly Pitt basketball mailbag, Post-Gazette insiders Christopher Carter and Noah Hiles answer reader questions. Among them: Was it a surprise that coach Jeff Capel and Co. were snubbed by the NCAA tournament selection committee for a March Madness berth? Was Capel wrong for declining an NIT invitation? Is Pitt's season a success despite missing the bracket? Will freshman Bub Carrington actually follow through on his promise to return to Pitt next season? And what are coach Jeff Capel's top priorities in recruiting and the NCAA transfer portal as he's set to lose important pieces including Blake Hinson? 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 Andrew Destin and Matt Vensel analyze the team's chances to make the Stanley Cup playoffs. Are Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang Erik Karlsson and Co. a real threat to steal a wild-card spot now that they've pulled within five points? Or will the loss of Jake Guentzel at the NHL trade deadline and a recent spate of bad defensive play be too much to overcome? What kind of impact is Michael Bunting having on the race after joining the team in the Guentzel trade? And will top prospect Sam Poulin be promoted from the minor leagues any time soon? 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 the Monday edition of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Mike's Beer Bar, host Christopher Carter welcomes Post-Gazette Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo to analyze GM Omar Khan's aggressive new approach to NFL free agency and trades. Did the fast overhaul of the quarterback room -- with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields coming in from the Denver Broncos and Chicago Bears and Kenny Pickett and Mason Rudolph going out -- show needed risk tolerance this franchise has lacked? Or is a new willingness to acknowledge and correct mistakes the bigger change with so much of previous GM Kevin Colbert's roster already turned over? Later, our duo dissects the QB moves more. Does the Wilson/Fields tandem give the Steelers a chance at continuity? And how important is the tone Wilson is already setting compared to Pickett's actions late last season? Then finally, Chris and Ray address the future of the defense with Patrick Queen and DeShon Elliott in the fold. Does this unit have a chance to be the Steelers' most complete in years? 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 Fittpaldo joins host Adam Bittner to react to the Steelers' trade with the Chicago Bears for QB and former first-round pick Justin Fields. How does he fit in the remade quarterback room with Russell Wilson now, and in the future? How was GM Omar Khan able to acquire a player of Fields' pedigree for just a conditional sixth-round pick? Will Fields or Kenny Pickett -- traded to the Eagles on Friday -- end up having the better career? And will Khan look to acquire a third QB in NFL free agency or the NFL draft? 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 Steelers decision Friday to trade QB Kenny Pickett to the Philadelphia Eagles following the signing of free agent Russell Wilson. Why did the team make this move now? What should we make of the light return of a pick swap into the third round and two 2025 seventh-round picks? Where will general manager Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin go from here at quarterback? Are NFL draft options like J.J. McCarthy, Bo Nix and Michael Penix Jr. now priorities? Will they sign another veteran like Ryan Tannehill? Or could they still trade with the Chicago Bears for Justin Fields? 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 the Pitching In podcast this week, Post-Gazette insider Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to break down all the biggest storylines from Pirates spring training in Bradenton, Fla. Will GM Ben Cherington add to this rotation in meaningful ways before the season begins? Or will names like Chase Anderson and Jared Jones be the most likely to join the likes of Mitch Keller, Marco Gonzales and Martin Perez on the opening day staff? Are prospects like Roansy Contreras and Quinn Priester squandering their opportunities? And how did guys like Paul Skenes look in the MLB Breakout game against the Orioles? Our duo tackles those topics as well as some lineup questions. How seriously should we take strong springs from Henry Davis and Oneil Cruz? Is a quiet spring from Rowdy Tellez and concern? How are things shaping up in right field? What about the second base competition between Liover Peguero, Jared Triolo and others? And is this team poised to go over or under the Vegas win total of 74.5 wins? 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 talk about the team's moves in NFL free agency so far. Which has been the biggest surprise? The signing of Russell Wilson to possibly replace Kenny Pickett? Trading Diontae Johnson for Donte Jackson? Giving Patrick Queen a substantial deal at ILB? Or is it a move the team has yet to make? Later, they discuss the future at wide receiver with Johnson out of the picture. What does Khan need to add alongside George Pickens? And how has free agency shifted NFL draft priorities for coach Mike Tomlin's teams? 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 his weekly YouTube appearance, Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise joins host Adam Bittner to discuss the Steelers' moves in free agency so far and how they impact the team's NFL draft needs. Does GM Omar Khan still need to draft a receiver early, even if he makes a move for free agent WRs like Tyler Boyd or Josh Reynolds following the Diontae Johnson trade? Should QBs like Bo Nix and Michael Penix Jr. be options to compete with Kenny Pickett next year even after the Russell Wilson signing? Is tight end an area of focus after new OC Arthur Smith spoke to Brock Bowers at Georgia's pro day? Especially in light of uncertainty around Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington? How does the cornerback group look after the acquisition of Donte Jackson? And what are Paul's reactions to moves around the division, including Baltimore's signing of Derrick Henry and Bengals WR Tee Higgins' request for a trade? Our duo tackles those questions and more, including: Did Penn State's James Franklin get himself in hot water over comments about the Eagles' Saquon Barkley? Is Pitt's March Madness resume better than bracketology experts like ESPN's Joe Lunardi give them credit for? Will strong springs from Pirates including Henry Davis, Oneil Cruz and Chase Anderson extend into the season? And did Penguins GM Kyle Dubas do enough at the NHL trade deadline in moving Jake Guentzel and a few other minor pieces? 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 spring practice for coach James Franklin's team. Are the Nittany Lions talented enough at wide receiver with the addition of Julian Fleming from Ohio State? What does Drew Allar have to do to take the next step at QB in his second season as a starter? How is Abdul Carter's transition from linebacker to defensive end going? And how are new coordinators Tom Allen on defense and Andy Kotelnicki implementing their visions? Our duo tackles those topics and more in the football realm, including Saquon Barkley's NFL free agent deal with the Philadelphia Eagles, then gets into some basketball topics. What grade does Mike Rhoades deserve for his first reason after replacing Micah Shrewsberry as men's coach? And what kind of heat should coach Carolyn Kieger face after her Lady Lions' collapse that will likely cost them a March Madness bid? 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 Cody Roark from Mile High Sports and the Locked On Broncos podcast to discuss new Steelers QB Russell Wilson's tumultuous tenure in Denver. What went wrong for him under coach Sean Payton? Were there problems in the locker room? What are Wilson's biggest strengths and weaknesses at this stage of his career? And how will he fit in a quarterbacks room with Kenny Pickett? 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 Steelers insider Brian Batko joins host Adam Bittner to the Steelers' decision to trade WR Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for CB Donte Jackson on Tuesday night. Did GM Omar Khan make the right move to ship out the disgruntled receiver? What will the impact on new coordinator Arthur Smith's offense be? And George Pickens ready to be the unquestioned No. 1 receiver? Our duo tackles those questions and also analyzes Jackson's impact on the team's secondary. Can he be a No. 2 to Joey Porter Jr.? Or is he more of a depth piece than anything else given his recent injury history? Should his presence affect the team's NFL draft plans? And how does he stack up with internal options like Cory Trice and Darius Rush? 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 Noah Hiles and Christopher Carter answer reader questions. Among them: Would the Panthers have been better off as a No. 5 seed in the ACC tournament with a chance to win an extra game to boost their March Madness resume? Will making the ACC championship be enough to impress bracketology experts like ESPN's Joe Lunardi? How will coach Jeff Capel use his two open scholarships next season to replace players like star Blake Hinson? How will Pitt defend Wake Forest if that's the team it ends up facing in its first ACC tournament game? And which Pitt players were snubbed this year in the All-ACC selections? 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 Russell Wilson's 1-year deal with the team ahead of NFL free agency. How much does Wilson have left after a tumultuous tenure with the Denver Broncos? What's next for Kenny Pickett and Mason Rudolph now that GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin appear to prefer the nine-time Pro Bowler at QB? And how will Wilson fit in new coordinator Arthur Smith's offense? 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 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 beginning of legal tampering ahead NFL free agency opening this week. How serious is the team's interest in Russell Wilson after his meeting with the team Friday? And how does the former Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion fit in new coordinator Arthur Smith's offense? Especially compared to what the team already has in Kenny Pickett? Our duo tackles those questions, then pivots to free agency in general. What should GM Omar Khan's top priorities be, and how do they compare to what will be available on the market? How much money will he have to spend to improve coach Mike Tomlin's roster? And why are names like Chidobe Awuzie, Adoree Jackson and L'Jarius Sneed among those to watch? 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 mock draft tracker video, host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette insider Ray Fittipaldo to break down projected NFL draft selections for the team from across the Internet this week. Ray also explains his pick in his latest seven-round mock draft on post-gazette.com. Is the lack of impact depth at positions of need like corner and tackle a concern if GM Omar Khan targets a player like Oregon C Jackson Powers-Johnson on Day 1? Would Day 2 center options like Georgia's Sedrick Van Pran or West Virginia's Zach Frazier offer similar value while allowing Khan to address other needs earlier on? Or are names like BYU OT Kingsley Suamataia, Penn State CB Kalen King, Iowa State CB T.J. Tampa and Florida State CB Kenardo Green Day 2 options who could still be helpful? Our duo tackles those topics, reacts to the NFL combine performance of several other top prospects. What should we make of Clemson CB Nate Wiggins' speedy 40-yard dash time? Why does Alabama CB Terrion Arnold's stock seem to be slipping a bit? Did Washington's Troy Fautanu prove he can belong at offensive tackle? And why does Ray like projected later round options including Rutgers CB Max Melton, Rice WR Luke McCaffrey, Temple ILB Jordan Magee, Georgia S Tykee Smith and Iowa P Tory Taylor? 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 join to discuss the team's trade deadline moves. Was the Jake Guentzel return from the Carolina Hurricanes underwhelming? What can Michael Bunting do for the Penguins and their struggling power play? Is the Chad Ruhwedel trade significant? What can we learn from the moves Kyle Dubas didn't make? And what do all of these moves say about Sidney Crosby and the future of the franchise? 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 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 latest on free agent QB Russell Wilson's meeting with the team Friday. Is general manager Omar Khan serious about the potential move to bring the nine-time Pro Bowl QB in to possibly replace Kenny Pickett as the starter? And if so, how would he fit in new coordinator Arthur Smith's offense with weapons including George Pickens, Najee Harris and Diontae Johnson? Our duo tackles those questions and also reacts to the release of cornerback Patrick Peterson. Will the Steelers miss his veteran presence? And could any other moves be coming before free agency? 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 college basketball podcast, Post-Gazette insiders Noah Hiles and Abby Schnable ponder Pitt's March Madness resume. Are the Panthers really undeserving of being safely in the NCAA tournament field as things stand? Or are bracketology projections like Joe Lunardi's overlooking the good work that coach Jeff Capel's team has done in getting to the 20-win mark for a second-straight season? Later, our duo highlights Blake Hinson's sparkling senior year that's already seen him become the program's single-season record holder for 3-pointers. And they ponder where Panthers including Jaland Lowe and Bub Carrington could land on the list of ACC honorees. 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 The Draft Network's Damian Parson to discuss all things NFL draft. Which top cornerbacks and offensive tackles could slip to the Steelers at pick No. 23. Which position is deeper in the 2024 draft class? And which picks at wide receiver, quarterback or linebacker make sense in the later rounds? 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.

In his weekly YouTube appearance, Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise joins Steelers insider Brian Batko to discuss the team's options with receiver Diontae Johnson. Does it make sense to trade him this offseason if GM Omar Khan doesn't believe an extension can be reached? Or is the team too thin in its current receivers room to consider moving on from the veteran? Later, our duo gets into QB talk. Which unlikely option to replace Kenny Pickett are they most sick of talking about? Russell Wilson, Justin Fields or someone else? Then Brian and Paul tackle a range of other Pittsburgh sports topics. What does a successful trade deadline for the Penguins look like if they move on from names including Jake Guentzel? How dangerous will Pitt be in March Madness if it can actually make the NCAA tournament? And what should we make of Paul Skenes getting demoted to the minors down at Pirates spring training? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.