Spin Rate: A show about the Toronto Blue Jays

A narrow series-opening defeat at the hands of the nefarious Red Sox has Drew and Ricky discussing Bo Bichette and the bottom of the order's offense. When will it find water, and what adjustments can those parties make? Kikuchi and Stripling stacked solid performances for the Jays. Plus, are there mechanical issues with Ryu? Ricky shares his thoughts.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Ricky on Twitter: @Ricky_Ro24Subscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month for 6 months by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alek Manoah powered the Jays to a series finale victory over the Athletics. Drew and Kaitlyn discuss Manoah's hot start as well as Jordan Romano's stellar start to 2022. Despite the Blue Jays smashing homers at a high clip, this offense hasn't reached its potential yet. Lastly, Ryu and others' bumps and lumps and the Jeff Nelson fiasco. Also, go kick cancers' ass, Buck.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathSubscribe to The Athletic for $1/month for 6 months by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is a man on a mission. Drew and Ricky react to Vladdy going OFF in a three-home-run performance versus the dreaded Yankees. Plus, Julian Merryweather and the bullpen are humming; can Santiago Espinal play himself into an everyday role, and Jose Berrios bounces back.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Ricky on Twitter: @Ricky_Ro24Subscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month for 6 months by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The opening series of 2022 is in the rearview mirror for the Blue Jays. Drew and Kaitlyn detail the electric atmosphere and emotional fans at Rogers Centre. The pair discuss their mixed feelings about the new scoreboard, Friday's comeback win versus the Rangers, Berrios and Ryu's uncharacteristic outings, and the current absence of a true ace on the team. Plus, an overview of the upcoming Yankees series.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathSubscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month for 6 months by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Spin Rate fans! Let's welcome the newest member of the podcast, former Blue Jays all-star pitcher, Opening Day starter, and golf extraordinaire, Ricky Romero! Drew and Ricky will bring you all the Blue Jays nuggets, insights, and opinions weekly throughout the season! The guys discuss Ricky's memories from his Opening Day start, expectations for Toronto in 2022, their perfect lineup, Jays' pitchers' signature pitches, and season predictions, including a Blue Jays World Series title!Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Ricky on Twitter: @Ricky_Ro24Subscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month for 6 months by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Opening Day is this Friday!!! There's still plenty left for Drew and Kaitlyn to cover before Toronto's first pitch against the Rangers, such as the Zack Collins trade and Charlie Montoyo's extension. Why did the Blue Jays release Greg Bird, and who will the Jays' brain trust bring in to fill out their remaining roster spots? Drew shares his burning questions about this year's squad before he and Kaitlyn wrap up the show with season predictions.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathSubscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month for 6 months by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Of course, as soon as we published last week's podcast, the Randal Grichuk trade was announced. Fingers crossed we don't release a podcast just before another acquisition by the Jays. But that's where Drew and Kaitlyn begin today's show, serving up their thoughts on the Randal Grichuk-Raimel Tapia exchange. Why did Toronto trade for Tapia? What role will he have with the team? While focusing on specific players, the duo cogitates on if Greg Bird will make the Jays' roster. Who will be the club's Opening Day starter? Plus, what is Charlie Montoyo's future with the organization?Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathSubscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month for 6 months by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Opening Day is how close?! Fleeting March Grapefruit League games will soon turn over to actual baseball, so let's talk about the actual Blue Jays players who will be taking the field! Drew and Kaitlyn project Toronto's roster and inspect positions that still have unanswered questions, including the bullpen's composition, and what to do with Nate Pearson and Ryan Borucki. Though George Springer is optimistically aiming to play "150+ games", the Jays need more centerfield help. Longtime Yankee, Brett Gardner, has been linked to the Jays, is an exchange feasible? Also, the Jose Ramirez chatter is unceasing and Drew has a Ramirez-related theory. Lastly, Drew and Kaitlyn confab about the AL East's competitiveness.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathSubscribe to The Athletic for $1/month for 6 months by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Baseball is back! And so it has been for nearly a week, nevertheless, Drew and Kaitlyn are ecstatic about delivering Spin Rate to you, in all of its splendor, with actual baseball to play. A torrent of transactions have transpired over the last 48-72 hours, some involving the Jays. One, in particular, is Toronto's deal with the Oakland A's to land 3B, Matt Chapman. What does Chapman do for the Jays' at third base? Who all did the organization trade in order to land Chapman? The pair then kibbitz about the Jays adding to their rotation with the addition of Yusei Kikuchi. Kaitlyn offers her observations from Spring Training, and the duo briefly discusses if the Jays are AL's pound-for-pound best team.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathSubscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month for 6 months by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Athletic's senior baseball writer and prospect guru Keith Law jumps on the podcast with Drew and Kaitlyn to discuss Toronto's farm system. The crew chats about how the Blue Jays are one of the best, if not the best, evaluators of international talent in the Majors. Of the talent the organization has identified, who should fans keep the closest eye on? Getting more granular; Keith shares his thoughts on Kevin Smith, Gabriel Moreno, Jordan Groshans, and more. After parting with Keith, Drew and Kaitlyn converse about canceled games how they could impact the Blue Jays.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlynmcgrathFollow Keith on Twitter: @keithlawSubscribe to The Athletic for just $1/month for 6 months by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're back! (And glad to be back at that!) Drew and Kaitlyn return in a catch-up edition of Spin Rate, where the duo inspect how the lockout may be affecting Toronto's season. After judging how the labor strike is impacting player development, Dunedin's finances, and more, the pair list the Jays' post-lockout priorities. Which free agent could assume third base duties? Who will fill the void left behind by Marcus Semien? How important is it that Toronto continues to bolster its bullpen? Before wrapping up, Juan Soto reportedly turned down a $300M+ contract from the Nationals. Are Soto and Vlad Jr.'s skills comparable, if so, does that mean Vlad stands to earn that type of money?Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathSubscribe to The Athletic for $1/month for 6 months by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hey all, welcome back to a special edition of Spin Rate! Kaitlyn and The Athletic's senior writer Stephen Nesbitt answer subscriber questions about the Blue Jays in The Athletic app. Who will be Toronto's top FA target once the lockout ends? What's the plan for Nate Pearson? And even Drew joins the Q&A to ask about the best method of building the club into a contender...though we certainly wish he would have shared news about Pancakes, his adorable pup.Follow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathFollow Stephen on Twitter: @stephenjnesbittGet more adorable pup content by following Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn, the Blue Jays, and Spin Rate in The Athletic app to join us the next time we host a live Q&A!Save 33% on a subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

News, contract details, rumors, and much more MLB free agency discourse is being pureed together in a blender of insanity! Drew and Kaitlyn cut through the cacophony and pour out their thoughts on the Toronto Blue Jays' off-season moves. Kevin Gausman is now a Blue Jay! How will his talents lend themselves to the club, and why Gausman and not Robbie Ray, who is now headed to the Pacific Northwest? Who will be the team's Opening Day starter? Plus, Yimi Garcia inks a deal with Toronto to bolster its pen. Drew and Kaitlyn also dive into Marcus Semien and Steven Matz's departures, among others. Plus, how will Toronto go about the remainder of free agency? Are they big spenders still, or should we expect them to kick the bargain bin?Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathSave 33% on a subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In honor of Thanksgiving, Drew and Kaitlyn share what they are thankful for, which is, of course, down ballots. Yes! Spin Rate feasts on down ballots, as we review the MLB award season and which Jays earned deserved accolades. Before plunging into which Jays won honors, the duo discuss Jose Berrios' press conference, and what his signing foretells about the Jays' future. Robbie Ray brought home the AL Cy Young award. Was his near-unanimous selection expected, and can he duplicate his 2021 performance next year (considering he stays with Toronto)? Vlad Jr. and Marcus Semien boasted incredible performances in 2021. Performances that in any other year would have earned them MVP and runner-up honors, respectively; however, their breakout play coincided with Shohei Ohtani's showstopping, once-in-a-century unanimous MVP run. Will we ever see another jaw-dropping season, like 2021, from Vlad? Drew and Kaitlyn confab about Alek Manoha and Charlie Montoyo earning votes for Rookie of the Year and Coach of the Year, respectively. Lastly, 40-man roster discourse!Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrath Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Blue Jays struck the first major deal of the league's offseason, locking down Jose Berrios for seven years. Drew and Kaitlyn react to Toronto and its midseason trade deadline acquisition's $131 million deal. What does this move signal about the team's offseason plans as a whole? Was Toronto frivolous in their spending, and will this pact affect Robbie Ray's and/or Marcus Semien's chances at re-signing?Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathSave 33% on a subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Before Spin Rate goes on vacation, Drew sits down with sagacious prospect reporter for Baseball America, Ben Badler, for a comprehensive discussion about the Blue Jays' farm system. Ben shares his evaluation of Gabriel Moreno, Leo Jiminez, and other up-and-coming Jays. The duo also converses about the Arizona League and what to expect.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Ben on Twitter: @BenBadlerSave 33% on a subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Blue Jays' off-season rolls on and while there's little new news about the team, there is prime news about Minor League Baseball. Major League Baseball is mandating MiLB clubs provide housing for their players, a notable leap for improving working conditions for prospects. Drew and Kailtyn outline the specifics of order and discuss its impact on players. Which teams are in the running for Robbie Ray? The joint Jays dabsters shares their thoughts on Ray's market, and who could be competing with Toronto for his services. Also, Drew and Kaitlyn predict Marcus Stroman's off-season and figure how it will be similar and different from Ray's. Plus, what can the Jays learn from the Red Sox's postseason run?Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathSave 50% on a subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Drew is joined by Jonah Birenbaum, baseball hurler extraordinaire, to cogitate over the Blue Jays' off-season to-dos. Contractually, we can't publish a podcast without deliberating who should get the bag, Marcus Semien or Robbie Ray...and why is it obviously Marcus Semien? Drew and Jonah pitch some names back and forth for who could step into a starting pitching role for Toronto next season. What should the Jays brain trust do with Nate Pearson, and what will be the bullpen's complexion in '22? The guys engage in a jaunty convo about contract extensions for position players that includes a $300M+ question about retaining Vlad Jr.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Jonah on Twitter: @birenballSave 50% on a subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Drew and Kaitlyn check the tread on your tires and oil level before taking off in this Blue Jays off-season primer vehicle. The podcasting pair bring attention to key dates this off-season; one such date being MLB Free Agency and the "quiet period", where the most recent team a free agent suited up for has exclusive negotiating rights with that player. Could Toronto ink Steven Matz before he hits the open market? Speaking of markets, what does Matz's look like? The duo's conversation keeps with starters, as Robbie Ray is a free agent, too. Will the AL Cy Young candidate stay in Toronto? Drew and Kaitlyn also kibbitz about other Jays who could be retained, including Corey Dickerson. To wrap, Spin Rate names its winners for MLB awards.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathSave 50% on a subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Drew and Kaitlyn put to rest the 2021 Blue Jays season by recounting the run-up to the team's elimination on Sunday. The duo also take a glance back at the Wild Card race, and how Toronto was one win away from a postseason berth. The (Blue) birds of a feather cogitate if next year's squad will be better or worse than this season's team. Plus, the podcasting pair share their thoughts on the season as a whole.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathSave 50% on a subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Drew and Dan Shulman, [though he needs no introduction] play-by-play extraordinaire for Sportsnet and ESPN, cut through the lingering gloom of a postseason-less Blue Jays season to find the core of optimism for the future underneath. The two wax about if this was a successful season for the Jays; top off-season priorities; Robbie Rays and Marcus Semien's future with the organization, and more!Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathSave 50% on a subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Drew and Mike Axisa, MLB writer for CBS, breakdown Thursday's pendulum-swinging series finale between the Blue Jays and Yankees. To prepare you for Thursday's game, the guys discuss New Yorks' hot streak entering the Toronto series as well as the Pinstripes' pitching game plan. Plus, has Joey Gallo been an objective disappointment for New York, and, lastly, the guys contemplate the weightiest question to date, who will be in the postseason?Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Mike on Twitter: @mikeaxisaSave 50% on a subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

IT'S BEAT THE YANKEES WEEK. The season has, more or less, boiled down to this week for Toronto. Drew and Kaitlyn reflect on the Blue Jays-Twins series before discussing the Wild Card race and the Yankees' sweep of Boston. What will it take to stymie New York's momentum if you're Toronto? Why in the world is Hyun-Jin Ryu scheduled to pitch the series' premiere? And we share our will-the-Blue-Jays-make-the-playoff predictions. Plus, Vlad Sr/Jr. talk!Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlynmcgrathSave 50% on a subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What's been the secret ingredient in Robbie Ray's Cy Young-contending season? Are players that buy into a team's vision just as valuable as that one-in-a-million type of athlete? Former big-league executive, national writer for FanGraphs, and host of the 'Chin Music' podcast Kevin Goldstein joins Drew in answering these questions. Are there more thoughtful questions that the guys entertain, you ask? Yes! How about...Was Teoscar's baking soda and vinegar-like offensive eruption expected; what's Bo's rare, unteachable trait, and is Vlad's MVP-caliber season just a flash in the pan? Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kevin on Twitter: @Kevin_GoldsteinSave 50% on a subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Good vibes radiated from Rogers Centre in the Blue Jays-Minnesota series, as Josh Donaldson returned to Toronto for the first time since being traded. Drew and Kaitlyn project their fondness of the sentimental scene in Rogers as well as chat about Donaldson swapping jerseys with Vlad. Is concern for Hyun-Jin Ryu at an all-time high? If his funk carries into the postseason, could the Jays decide to shut him down? The very real Marcoscar Semanchette stirs Drew's thoughts until mostly praise rises to the top. The duo debate Vlad Jr.'s MVP candidacy, and what's going to happen with the Yankees?Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathSave 50% on a subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Drew welcomes special guest Ben Wagner, radio voice of the Toronto Blue Jays, to Spin Rate! Ben shares his thoughts about the Jays from a booth perspective and discusses how he anticipates the playoff race unfolding. Alek Manoah has impressed many fans, including Ben. What makes Manoah so good, and which Blue Jay has validated Ben's high expectations?Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Ben on Twitter: @benwag247Save 50% on a subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Spin Rate, where Drew Fairservice and Kaitlyn McGrath discuss your WILD CARD LEADING BLUE JAYS(!) twice-weekly on The Athletic. Regardless of the caliber of opponent, the Jays still plucked three of four games away from the Orioles, and Drew and Kaitlyn take time to dissect the series. You don't want smoke from Robbie Ray. Jansen and Gurriel have the NBA 2K Hall of Fame Microwave Badge equipped. Can Vlad reach 50 homers? Should we be concerned for Ryu? A Nate Pearson and Julian Merryweather bullpen is an atomic wrecking ball. So, listen, Jays, why don't you just go out and win the divisional already? Is the upcoming Rays series the 'prove it' stretch? Plus, scoreboard watching!Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathSave 50% on an annual subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With less than 25 games remaining in the regular season, the Blue Jays have some questions to answer. To help unravel those riddles, Drew welcomes Sportsnet writer and co-host of the 'At the Letters' podcast Arden Zwelling to Spin Rate! What's Marcus Semien's future in Toronto? Is there a ballpark figure for Semien's continued services up north? Steven Matz is quietly piecing together a sturdy 2021 performance. Has he changed anything to help his game? Will he wear blue again next season? Drew and Arden also discuss if the Blue Jays are carrying a 'playoff or bust' mentality.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Arden on Twitter: @ArdenZwelling Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We back! The Jays, too, are back, this time to their winning ways. Toronto has strung together five consecutive wins while posting impressive offensive numbers. Drew and Kaitlyn dish out their thoughts on the Jays' winning ways, but that's merely the appetizer! The antipasto is followed up by a hearty appreciation-post entree, dedicated to Marcus Semien, Lourdes Gurriel Jr., Robbie Ray, and more! A Robbie Ray-Cy Young palate cleanser breaks up the final two plates. Presented last is a sweet concoction: Half candied optimism for a Wild Card push and half bitter reality that there's a long climb still ahead of the team.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrath Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Drew welcomes The Athletics curator of Reds content, and aficionado of Canadian culture, C. Trent Rosecrans to chat about Cincinnati's playoff push. In what ways are the Jays and Reds similar? Will either, or both, reach the postseason? Joey Votto, Canada's wonderboy, continues to dazzle at 37 years young. Equally as timeless as Votto is C. Trent's stories about the Reds' first baseman and his inimitable personality. C. Trent's knowledge of Canadian baseball players is put to the test in a quiz created by Kailtyn. How will C. Trent fair?! Tune in to find out!Check out the Great American Dream podcast: https://apple.co/3BBI98RFollow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow C. Trent on Twitter: @ctrent Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

(In Owen Wilson voice) Wow! Jose Berrios and the Blue Jays starters looked like competent big league pitchers! Drew and Kailtyn dissect Toronto's road weekend series in Detroit, and they discuss how the starting rotation feathered its nest against a Tigers team going through growing pains. Berrios and Manoah looked solid, can they maintain their level of performance? In contrast to the Jays' reassuring pitching, the offense birthed more questions than answers. Is mental exhaustion a factor in the offense's languid play? Jerrod Dyson?! Why?! Kirk played DH, is that good or bad? The duo takes a trip to Optimism Street before closing shop.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathSave 33% on an annual subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kaitlyn is on a Thursday podcast?! Wuh? Yeah, believe it, yo. Drew and Kaitlyn wishes they could emit the same energy and swag as Robbie "Strikeout King" Ray did in Wednesday's start versus the White Sox. Fanning 14 batters on a playoff-bound team might earn you some extra dough if you're Robbie Ray. Right? The duo poses the question "should Toronto re-sign Robbie Ray or Marcus Semien" (assuming you can only re-sign one of the two)? Is Semien willing to remain at second base in the future? Why have timely hits eluded the Jays? Plus, which catcher should start after Danny Jansen returns from his rehab assignment?Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathSave 33% on an annual subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is it best to attribute Toronto's weekend series loss to Detroit to bad luck, awful juju, voodoo, or black magic? Why not all superstitious, preternatural phenomena? Drew and Kaitlyn, begrudgingly, breakdown the Blue Jays' forgettable three-game set versus the Tigers, and comb through the bad to find some good. Plus, acknowledging Miggy's 500th career home run, and looking at Toronto's upcoming schedule.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathSave 33% on an annual subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Among the recent string of rebuilding organizations, the White Sox and Blue Jays are two revamped clubs whose reassembling efforts are bearing fruit. Drew and Kevin Kaduk, founder of the Midway Minute, a Chicago sports newsletter, kibbitz about the Sox's reclamation project and how it's bearing results. How is Chicago's internal reset similar to Toronto's? The Cubs, who, optically, are at the starting line of their own rebuild, vary in what ways to the Sox and Jays' rebuilds? Plus, Kevin dispenses advice related to Toronto's development.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kevin on Twitter: @KevinKadukCheck out the Midway Minute: https://signup.midwayminute.win/Save 33% on an annual subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It was a disappointing weekend for Jays fans, and understandably so, however, there's a silver lining to all this stink; you get to listen to Drew and Kaitlyn rehash all the highs and lows! OK, well, maybe not so much silver as a nickeled lining...anyway. The voices of Spin Rate discuss the three-game series versus the Mariners, including Friday's game-winning walk and the inconsistent pitching that went along with it as well as George Springer's injury. What will the lineup look like with Springer sidelined? The Viceroy of Vibes, Teoscar Hernandez, has blossomed into an unexpected contributor for Toronto in recent years but does his potential and current production outweigh his shortcomings? Drew and Kaitlyn deliberate Hernandez's value. Lastly, a look ahead to this week's series.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathSave 33% on an annual subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fret not, Angels fans. If you're ready to abandon mediocrity for an up-and-coming, near-playoff-bound franchise, then this podcast is your keycard to the Blue Jays suit. In your room, Riley Breckenridge, drummer for Thrice and Angels loyalist who joins Drew today on the podcast, will undress your ears with his percussive drumming. The co-owner of Classic Grit, a baseball apparel store, shares his two cents on Anaheims' season and opines about the team's, seemingly, perpetual mediocrity. What can the Angels, and its fans, learn from the Blue Jays organization? At the intersection of Anaheim and Toronto, is Vlad Sr. What's it like having watched Sr., and now Jr., play? Lastly, Riley discusses Thrice's upcoming record, tour, and more!Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Riley on Twitter: @rileybreckCheck out Thrice's tour and record info!: https://thrice.net/Save 33% on an annual subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TAKE THAT, BOSTON! Toronto secures three-of-four-weekend meetings against the Red Sox to close the AL East gap. Drew and Kaitlyn extract the most important headlines from the Jays' series win, including George Springer's ascent to a celestial form and the club's excellent pitching. The duo then discusses Toronto's West coast get-away and run through the AL playoff race.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathSave 33% on an annual subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Maybe it's obvious or maybe it's not, but it's worth asking after the trade deadline, are the Blue Jays in win-now mode? Drew welcomes Sportsnet's sagacious scrivener, Shi Davidi, to answer that question and more. Plus, is Vlad Jr. in line for a Tatis-esque contract this offseason?Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Shi on Twitter: @ShiDavidiRead Shi's book!: http://bit.ly/2ODixFmSave 33% on an annual subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

July 30th, 2021, was a day that will be chiseled into Blue Jays fans' DNA for years to come. After a two-year hiatus from Toronto, the birds finally returned to their nest and defended the Rogers Centre splendidly. Drew and Kaitlyn describe the emotions of last Friday to the best of their abilities and share sentiments from players, Jays' personnel, and fans alike. Did the Jays fork over too many high-profile prospects for Berrios? Drew and Kaitlyn deliberate Friday's magnitudinous trade, and take stock of Berrios' first outing as a TBJ. The pair also weigh the Jays' other transactions and gauge the performance of the revamped bullpen. Lastly, George Springer's first weekend at the Rogers Center; Alek Manoah's outings are breeding confidence in fans and teammates, and we Stan Santiago Espinal.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrath Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Jays netted a big fish! Welcome to Toronto, Jose Berrios! Yes, with the trade deadline closely looming, the Jays orchestrated a trade with Minnesota to nab the best available starting pitcher left in trade negotiations. The Athletic's Tim McMaster and Kaitlyn McGrath breakdown the specifics of the trade, and how Berrios will impact the Jays now, and in the future. Afterward, join Drew and Andrew Zuber, who recorded Thursday night before the Berrios trade, as they try to stave off emotional and mental breakdowns because the Yankees and Rays made, potential, division-altering moves. Plus, insight into the Brad Hand transaction; will there be a blockbuster trade in the off-season, and more!Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Zubes on Twitter: @the_ZubesFollow Tim on Twitter: @TimMMcMasterFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathCheck out Sportsfeld: https://linktr.ee/sportsfeldSave 33% on an annual subscription to The Athletic by visiting: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is the week that will determine whether the Blue Jays believe they are a postseason contender. Before Drew and Kaitlyn propose a bevy of trade hypotheticals, they recap Toronto's troubles in the Big Apple. Drew lays out his defense for the Jays' 'Process vs. Progress'. Although the club dropped a pair to the Mets, the reshuffled lineup was a spark of inspiration for Jays fans, including Drew. Should Vladdy eventually hit fourth? Ryan Borucki was exposed. How should the lefty be deployed moving forward? Alejandro Kirk's return was very Kirk-esque, a smoothie of blended hitting prowess and face-palming flubs. Kaitlyn then details her hypothetical Blue Jays trade proposal to the Rangers for Ian Kennedy, Joey Gallo and more. Plus, what would it cost to extend Marcus Semien? Is it time to consider trading him?Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrath Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Drew welcomes Rob Wong, host of Blue Jays Baseball and Jays Talk on Sportsnet 590, to Spin Rate! The birds of a feather flock towards a recent development in the AL East, the Rays acquiring slugger, Nelson Cruz. What does this transaction portend for Toronto? Was Nelson a checkbox on the Jays' trade deadline wishlist? On this hypothetical wishlist, Joey Gallo is presumably a name underscored and circled for Ross Atkins and co. Should the Jays move Heaven and Earth for Gallo, or should they continue to wait and fortify their resources for the offseason when a 2022 playoff push might be more realistic? Is Vlad destined for the Triple Crown, and how valuable would Bo Bichette be as a trade piece?Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Rob on Twitter: @WongSN590Join The Athletic for just $3.99 a month! Visit: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In honor of "Old Town Road", Vlad's first walk-up song at Rogers Centre, the Jays' were going to ride their offense 'til they couldn't no more in their series sweep of the Rangers. What was the biggest takeaway in the series? (Spoiler alert: Aside from the offense, pitching. Full stop. Pitching.) Drew and Kaitlyn confabulate about the Jays' second-half schedule and discuss whether the club needs another starting pitcher. On July 30th, for the first time since 2019, the Toronto Blue Jays will play in their home ballpark. Kaitlyn and Drew express their thoughts and feelings about Canada's long Covid-19 battle and the climb back to relative normalcy.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathJoin The Athletic for just $3.99 a month! Visit: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fresh off the MLB All-Star Game, Drew and special guest Jeff Paternostro, lead prospect writer for Baseball Prospectus, discuss prospects with the potential to achieve an All-Star honor within the Blue Jays farm system, or just evaluate the young professionals in general. With the MLB Draft taking place within the last week, Drew and Jeff start there by analyzing Toronto's draft picks. Was drafting Gunnar Hoglund considered a steal? Could he develop into a middle-of-the-rotation starter? Ricky Tiedemann was scooped up by the Jays in the draft's third round. Tiedemann is one of many who was affected by the canceled high school sports season and 2020's condensed draft. What's his upside and is there extra confidence in him from Toronto's front office because he was able to overcome such odds last year? To wrap up draft chatter, what's the scouting report on Irv Carter, a prep arm out of Florida? What are Jeff's thoughts on Austin Martin and his Futures Game performance? Is the ex-Commodore on track with his growth? Plus, which prospects are fungible and which are untouchable if Toronto were to seek a trade. Also, Jeff wishes he would have graded Vlad's hit tools 80s.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Jeff on Twitter: @jeffpaternostroJoin The Atheltic for just $3.99 a month! Visit: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As an homage to the Barenaked Ladies, I'm learning more and more about Canadian pop culture every day, "it's been one week since" you've listened to Drew and Kaitlyn together and, much "like Snickers, guaranteed to satisfy". Ole Miss pitcher, Gunnar Hoglund, was drafted 19th overall by Toronto in the MLB First Year Player Draft. Kaitlyn shares what she knows about the Jays' latest prospect, and details how the front office and scouting department perceives him. What's will more likely happen to Toronto in the second half of the season; will they collapse, surge forth, or remain unchanged in the last portion of the year? Is it fathomable the Jays trade for Joey Gallo? How would he affect the Jays? Lastly, Drew determines if he'd trade Vlad Jr. for Shohei Ohtani.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kailtny on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathJoin The Athletic for just $3.99 a month! Visit: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the same battery-energy as Whitey Ford and Yogi Berra, Drew and Jonah Birenbaum pitch and catch Blue Jays musings with such panache, you'd think they were on the diamond. The guys bid farewell to Rowdy Tellez, who was traded to Milwaukee in exchange for pitcher Trevor Richards. Will Tellez's departure affect the team negatively? Is Richards' addition a boon to the bullpen? Finally, Drew can fully unleash his outer (yes, outer, not inner) Shohei Ohtani fanboy with Jonah around. Who will win the AL MVP, Shohei or Vlad? Trade machine time! Is Alejandro Kirk next out the door, or should Toronto start him as a valued offensive producer? Nate Pearson is a goner at this point, right? Could Toronto nab either Berrios or Castillos to fortify their rotation? What about Jose Ramirez? To close, the teammates flick through who's in the mix for the AL Wild Card and compare the Blue Jays to those clubs. Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Jonah on Twitter: @birenballJoin The Athletic for just $3.99 a month! Visit: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

*In Steve Harwell singing voice* "Hey now, Jays got four All-Stars, get on the field now, and go play". Toronto smashed all other American League teams in All-Star participants with four honorees, including three starters, the most of any team regardless of conference. Drew and Kaitlyn discern whether if all that glitters is gold with Toronto's ASG members. Was it madness, enlightenment, a revelation(?) that caused Drew to compliment the Rays? The first-ever instance on Spin Rate where Drew praised Tampa Bay is followed by him and Kaitlyn breaking down the Jays' series win versus the aforementioned Florida club. The duo dish out team grades at the season's midway point, and discuss Robbie Ray's surprisingly good performance this year. Plus, will the Jays be back in Toronto before the end of the season?Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kaitlyn on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathJoin The Athletic for just $3.99 a month! Visit: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Drew welcomes special guest Scott MacArthur, co-host of Lead Off on Sportsnet and FAN590, to the show! Drew and Scott react to Toronto acquiring Corey Dickerson and Adam Cimber from the Miami Marlins. How will each new Jay impact the club? What does this acquisition say about the current nucleus of the team? Is Toronto positioning themselves for a blockbuster trade? Scott and Drew dive into prospect trading discourse as Toronto looks to add other impact players. To close, is Major League Baseball, or any major sporting body for that fact, actively helping the LGBTQ+ community, or is 'rainbow washing' and bottom lines the real driver? Scott, who is openly gay, shares his thoughts on this dynamic.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Scott on Twitter: @ScottyMacThinksJoin The Athletic for just $3.99! Visit: theatheltic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

OK, we get it, it was Baltimore but, hey, wins are wins, right? Drew and Kaitlyn summarize Toronto's assault on the Orioles before comparing and contrasting the organizations' approaches to rebuilding. Which rebuild will yield superior results, granted, the Orioles are still in the midst of their rebuild but is their ceiling higher? The Jays of a feather briefly discuss All-Star projections before mulling over Vlad's decision to not participate in the Home Run Derby. What's the logic behind his choice? Should he reconsider? Drew and Kaitlyn weigh some hypothetical trade deals that could benefit Toronto, including one such deal involving the Rangers.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Kailtny on Twitter: @kaitlyncmcgrathJoin The Athletic for just $3.99 a month! Visit: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Drew welcomes the sagacious Tao of Stieb to Spin Rate to help inject belief in Toronto's player development into the arms of Jays fans. With a trove of talented prospects, should Toronto consider packaging some for a worthwhile talent? Digging deeper into this topic, is Toronto in a position to win now? Drew and the Tao conference about the merits and reasons why the 2021 Blue Jays should be a team looking to push its chips into the center of the table. Keeping with the personnel and trajectory of the team theme, the guys try to figure out the best way to deploy Drew Pearson and Thomas Hatch.Follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewGROFFollow Tao of Stieb on Twitter: @TaoofStiebJoin The Athletic for just $3.99 a month! Visit: theathletic.com/spinrate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.