The FAN Pregame

David Samson, former MLB executive and host of the Nothing Personal podcast, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss why Juan Soto isn't a likely trade candidate for the Blue Jays, how MLB front offices typically determine when to explore the trade market, potential left-handed bats that could become available this summer, and MLB's deadened ball theory. Later, the team breaks into a spirited debate about their favourite variety of apples, how the outcome of the Tampa-Florida series might impact fans’ view of this year's Leafs playoff exit, and the most appealing Stanley Cup Final matchup (38:14). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Ben Nicholson-Smith, MLB editor for Sportsnet and co-host of the At The Letters podcast, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss the Blue Jays’ early-season offensive woes, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s recent dip in extra-base hits, Teoscar Hernandez’s struggles since returning to the lineup, Juan Soto’s trade value around baseball, and the absence of swing-and-miss ability in the Jays’ bullpen. Afterwards, Sam McKee, co-host of The Golf Show, stops by to offer his favourite bets for this weekend’s PGA Championship. The team also assembles their daily Wake and Rake parlay (27:14). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss the Flames’ 9-6 win over the Oilers in Game 1 of their much-anticipated second round series, the lack of defensive structure from both teams, and the overall sloppiness in the game. Joe House, host of The Ringer's Fairway Rollin’ podcast, joins the show to chat about the PGA Championship, Tiger Woods’ chances this week at Southern Hills, Phil Mickelson’s continued absence from the Tour and his tarnished reputation, Jordan Spieth’s quest for the career grand slam, and his dream NBA Finals matchup (25:15). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss ESPN’s Buster Olney reporting that the Blue Jays might be interested in trading for Juan Soto, the organization’s continued desire to supplement their lineup with a quality left-handed bat, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s lack of meaningful production despite his career-best 15-game hit streak. Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (31:47)!The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Justin Bourne, co-host of Real Kyper and Bourne, joins JD, Blake and Ailish for the hour to discuss the disconnect between the Leafs’ front office and the fan base, the sense of apathy that was displayed by Brendan Shanahan and Kyle Dubas during yesterday’s season-ending press conference, and the notion that this year’s playoff exit was “different.” Later, the crew weighs in on how Dubas should approach this off-season and what realistic changes can be made to the roster (38:12). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Caleb Joseph, former MLB catcher and current Blue Jays radio analyst, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss Jose Berrios’ effective use of his two-seam fastball on Tuesday night, the unique deception on his pitches, Alejandro Kirk’s improvement as a game-caller behind the dish, Yusei Kikuchi’s refined arsenal, and how Pete Walker’s work with Robbie Ray has influenced Kikuchi’s growth this season. Later, the team tees up the betting lines for tonight’s Blue Jays-Mariners series finale and assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (27:58). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish weigh in on the Blue Jays’ 3-0 shutout win over the Mariners on Tuesday, Jose Berrios notching his best outing of the season, Alejandro Kirk’s improved skill set behind the plate, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s current home run drought. Sean McIndoe, senior NHL writer for The Athletic and founder of Down Goes Brown, joins the show to discuss his cathartic post-mortem piece on the Leafs’ season, the consternation among Leaf fans regarding Brendan Shanahan and Kyle Dubas’ season-ending media address, and why Toronto can only be judged on playoff success (27:14). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss their takeaways from the Maple Leafs’ season-ending exit interviews, the messaging from Brendan Shanahan and Kyle Dubas, and the prevailing sentiment about how the team will navigate this off-season. Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (32:46)!The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Steve Dangle, hockey YouTuber and host of The Steve Dangle Podcast, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to share his thoughts on if the Leafs should run it back next season, William Nylander being a possible trade chip this summer, Jack Campbell’s free agency situation, and whether Kyle Dubas will alter his roster-building philosophy. Later, the team heads back to the text line to field more comments from listeners (24:36). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Jake Arrieta, former Cy Young Award winner, 2016 World Series champion, and co-host of the Starting 9 podcast, joins the show to discuss his foray into the media world, his experience being teammates with Kevin Gausman in Baltimore and his emergence as an ace, the characteristics that make a great pitching coach, and why he’s confident the Blue Jays will be firmly entrenched in the AL playoff picture. Later, JD, Blake and Ailish tee up the betting lines for tonight’s Blue Jays-Mariners game and assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (25:40). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Sportsnet hockey reporter Luke Fox stops by to discuss his biggest curiosities heading into today’s Maple Leafs season-ending media availabilities, questions about the team’s roster construction, Kyle Dubas’ loyalty to Sheldon Keefe, and why this organization should be judged on the basis of competing for a championship and not simply winning a playoff round. Later, JD, Blake and Ailish head to the text line to field comments and questions from listeners (24:52).The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss the Blue Jays’ 6-2 win over the Mariners on Monday, Yusei Kikuchi delivering another effective start, Pete Walker’s influence on Kikuchi’s improved mechanics, and the Blue Jays’ injury-plagued bullpen. Afterwards, with the help of some truth serum, the team chats about what questions they would like to have answered during today's Maple Leafs exit interviews. (27:48). Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (41:55)!The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Elliotte Friedman, NHL Insider for Sportsnet and co-host of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss the consternation among Leaf fans following another first round playoff exit, John Tavares' role heading into next season, the possibility of Mitch Marner moving over to the centre position, the likelihood of Kyle Dubas returning as GM for at least one more year, Justin Holl being a likely trade candidate this summer, and Jack Campbell's impending free agent negotiations. Afterwards, Kris Versteeg, former NHL forward and two-time Stanley Cup champion, stops by to share his thoughts on why Sheldon Keefe was outcoached by Jon Cooper and the Leafs' inability to dispatch of a vulnerable-looking Lightning team (27:04).The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Nick Kypreos, former NHL forward and co-host of Real Kyper and Bourne, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss the Maple Leafs' improved style of play this post-season, the lingering holes in their lineup, the team's confounding cap situation, if Toronto should run it back, Nick Paul's emergence as a difference-maker for Tampa, Sheldon Keefe's job security, and the pressure facing the Leafs' front office to find playoff success with only two years remaining on Auston Matthews' existing contract. Afterwards, Ailish recounts her experience playing in a charity hockey tournament with former NHLers over the weekend (32:00). Then, the team tees up the betting lines for tonight’s Blue Jays-Mariners game and assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (38:30)!The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish share their positive takeaways from the Leafs’ first round series, including Jack Campbell’s strong play, Mitch Marner exorcising his past playoff demons, and Jason Spezza’s leadership. Afterwards, the team dives into their negative observations, ranging from the Leafs’ inconsistent depth contributions to John Tavares’ revolving door of linemates (19:29). Later, the crew chats about the Blue Jays dropping two of three against Tampa and the team’s ongoing offensive struggles. They also weigh in on the Suns’ blowout loss to Dallas in Game 7 and Giannis Antetokounmpo bowing out against the Celtics to end Milwaukee’s title reign (37:08). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss the Maple Leafs’ Game 7 loss against Tampa, whether the Leafs should run it back next season, Sheldon Keefe’s future and the merits of a possible coaching change, and Kyle Dubas’ job security. Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (40:59)!The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

James Mirtle, NHL scribe for The Athletic, weighs in on John Tavares’ body language after last night’s overtime loss, the potential fallout if the Leafs lose Game 7, Toronto’s tortured history of failing to close out a playoff series, and whether Saturday night’s game will determine the fate of Sheldon Keefe and Kyle Dubas. Afterwards, JD, Blake and Ailish head to the text line to gauge the temperature of Leafs Nation ahead of Game 7 (23:38). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Anthony Stewart, former NHL forward and current Sportsnet analyst, joins the show to discuss Alex Kerfoot coming under siege after his shaky performance in Game 6, why the Leafs should be optimistic about their chances in Game 7, Jack Campbell’s strong body of work in this series, and Jason Spezza adopting a key leadership role on this team. Later, JD and Blake set the betting lines for Ailish’s participation in a charity hockey tournament this weekend. The team also tees up the odds for tonight’s Blue Jays-Rays game and assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (22:53)!The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Frank Seravalli, NHL Insider and President of Hockey Content for DailyFaceoff.com, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss how the Leafs' performance in this series has changed peoples' perception about the team's core group, what a potential Game 7 loss would mean for Toronto's off-season, and Auston Matthews being a finalist for the Hart Trophy. Later, Jackie Redmond, studio host for NHL Network and rinkside reporter for the NHL on TNT, stops by to chat about why she's confident that the Leafs can get the job done in Game 7, Toronto's improved maturity in high-leverage situations, and the playoff bracket lining up favourably for the winner of this series (25:39). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss the Maple Leafs’ 4-3 overtime loss to the Lightning in Game 6, the Leafs’ strong response after falling behind 2-0, Toronto’s psyche heading into Game 7, the emotional roller-coaster that comes with being a Leafs fan, and the officiating in last night’s game. Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List, including Joel Embiid’s criticism of James Harden following the 76ers’ elimination from the playoffs (39:02) The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Craig Simpson, former NHL forward, two-time Stanley Cup champion, and current Sportsnet analyst, shares his thoughts on whether the Leafs can finally get over the hump, how killer instinct actually manifests itself in a playoff game, William Nylander’s turnaround in this series, and how Tampa’s championship pedigree might impact Game 6. Later, Dan Shulman, voice of the Blue Jays, stops by to chat about Jose Berrios’ outing against the Yankees on Wednesday, Toronto’s scuffling offence, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. showing signs of frustration, and MLB’s deadened ball crisis (24:02). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Former Maple Leafs forward Steve Thomas joins the show to discuss Toronto's depth contributions against Tampa, John Tavares getting off the schneid in Game 5, Jason Spezza’s leadership, and why Game 6 might be the Leafs’ best opportunity to close out this series. Later, JD, Blake and Ailish tee up the betting lines for tonight’s Leafs-Lightning game and assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (26:44). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Jeff Marek, host of The Jeff Marek Show and co-host of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss Jack Campbell battling through adversity in Game 5, Victor Hedman asserting himself as the best defenceman in the NHL, and this series being an audit on the Leafs’ vision and approach. Afterwards, on the heels of CM Punk sporting a John Tavares jersey on Long Island last night, the team breaks into a spirited debate about which sports jersey would generate the biggest heel reaction at a wrestling event in Toronto (20:44). Later, Hunter Pence, former MLB outfielder and two-time World Series champion, stops by to chat about his experience playing with Kevin Gausman in San Francisco, his emergence as an elite starter, and the Jays’ ceiling this season (31:03). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish weigh in on the Blue Jays dropping back-to-back games in the Bronx, the team’s continued struggles at the plate, and Jose Berrios’ inconsistency on the mound. Afterwards, the crew discusses if the Leafs can activate their killer instinct in Game 6, where tonight’s game falls on the must-win scale, and the importance of having a good start. Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (37:52)!The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Kris Versteeg, former NHL forward and two-time Stanley Cup champion, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss William Nylander emerging as an offensive catalyst for the Leafs in Game 5, Justin Holl's gritty performance on the blue line, Toronto's susceptibility to slow starts, and Mitch Marner's ability to take over games with his skill and IQ. Later, the team chats about Jon Cooper’s comments following Game 5 and his unwillingness to give the Leafs any credit in this series (34:00). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Nick Kypreos, co-host of Real Kyper and Bourne, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss the Leafs’ sluggish start in Game 5, John Tavares finding success in the dirty areas, Jack Campbell’s resiliency, Auston Matthews’ elevated physicality, and if the Leafs have finally located their killer instinct. Later, the team tees up the betting odds for this afternoon’s Blue Jays-Yankees game and assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (23:52). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Jennifer Botterill, three-time Olympic gold medalist and current Sportsnet analyst, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss Jason Spezza’s leadership and the cache he carries in the Maple Leafs’ locker room, John Tavares’ productive night, and the biggest keys for Game 6 in Tampa. Then, the team weighs in on Jordan Romano’s ninth-inning meltdown on Tuesday, his recent dip in velocity, and how the Blue Jays should manage his workload (17:37). Later, the crew chimes in on Yusei Kikuchi’s positive outing against the Yankees, Yimi Garcia’s ejection after hitting Josh Donaldson, and concerns about the Jays’ bullpen depth (23:33). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Ailish discusses her experience attending the Maple Leafs’ Game 5 win at Scotiabank Arena last night. Afterwards, the team chats about Toronto’s epic comeback, Jason Spezza rallying his teammates after a flat first period, the Leafs’ "core 4" all contributing in the win, Jack Campbell elevating his game, and Justin Holl’s strong performance in Game 5. Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (36:37)!The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Aaron Ward, former NHL defenceman and two-time Stanley Cup champion, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss Tampa’s resounding response after their Game 3 letdown, the pressure on Jack Campbell to bounce back in Game 5, the Jekyll and Hyde of Toronto’s blue line, and whether Sheldon Keefe should remove Justin Holl from the lineup on Tuesday night. Later, the team weighs in on Tom Brady signing with FOX to become a lead NFL analyst after his playing career ends. The crew also fields more texts from listeners (23:36)!The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

John Buccigross, NHL play-by-play announcer and studio host for ESPN, joins the show to discuss John Tavares’ struggles so far against Tampa, the pressure on Auston Matthews to elevate his game, the Lightning's championship acumen, and the value of having a type-A personality in the dressing room. Afterwards, JD, Blake and Ailish sift through some more texts from listeners. Later, the team tees up the betting lines for tonight’s Blue Jays-Yankees matchup and Game 5 between the Leafs and Lightning. They also assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (25:01)! The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Luke Fox, NHL scribe for Sportsnet, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss the Maple Leafs’ possible lineup adjustments for Game 5, the importance of last change in terms of setting matchups, Toronto’s lack of killer instinct in Game 4, and the versatility of Tampa’s Point-Killorn-Cirelli line. Afterwards, the crew chats about the Raptors’ reported interest in Rudy Gobert and if he’d be a good fit in Toronto (17:11). Later, the team heads to the text line to field comments and questions from listeners (33:31). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss Morgan Rielly’s post-practice comments on Monday about the Leafs learning from past playoff failures, where Game 5 falls on the must-win meter, the scrutiny facing John Tavares, the pressure facing Auston Matthews to put his imprint on this series, and potential lineup changes for Game 5. Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (40:48)! The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Dave Andreychuk, Hockey Hall of Famer and current Lightning studio analyst, joins the show to discuss the game-to-game momentum swings in this series, the Leafs' depth contributions, Sheldon Keefe and Jon Cooper tinkering with their respective power plays, and Tampa's increased sense of urgency when coming off a loss. Then, JD, Blake and Ailish weigh in on Keefe’s decision to pull Jack Campbell in the second period and how it might affect his mindset heading into Game 5 (16:49). Ryan Callahan, former NHL forward and current ESPN analyst, stops by to chat about Tampa’s championship pedigree, the Leafs squandering a golden opportunity to take control of the series, John Tavares struggling to find his game alongside William Nylander, and the similarities in terms of roster construction between Toronto and Tampa (25:20).The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Justin Bourne, co-host of Real Kyper and Bourne, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss the Leafs’ disheartening performance in Game 4, Sheldon Keefe’s messaging after the loss, the lingering effects of past playoff failures, how Tampa imposed their will on Sunday night, Auston Matthews’ usage in this series, and John Tavares’ poor fit with William Nylander. Later, JD voices his gripe with the NBA’s injury report and its adverse impact on sports betting markets (25:34). Afterwards, the team assembles their daily Wake and Rake parlay (39:03)!The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss the Blue Jays’ difficult weekend in Cleveland, Toronto’s sustained offensive woes, Teoscar Hernandez's return to the lineup, concerns about the team’s bullpen depth, and if the Jays can unlock their full potential. Later, the crew chats about the continued proliferation of Formula 1 in North America, this past weekend’s inaugural Miami Grand Prix, the NBA’s anti-climactic second round, and the biggest winners and losers from Saturday night’s UFC 274 card (23:47). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

JD recounts his experience attending a wedding reception on Friday night during the Maple Leafs’ Game 3 win over the Lightning. Afterwards, the team discusses the Leafs’ 7-3 blowout loss in Game 4, Sheldon Keefe’s comments about being satisfied with a split in Tampa, Toronto’s lack of a killer instinct, Auston Matthews struggling to find his rhythm in five-on-five situations, and William Nylander’s disappointing Game 4 performance (11:50). Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (39:13)!The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Blue Jays play-by-play voice Dan Shulman checks in from Cleveland to discuss Teoscar Hernandez’s impending return to the lineup, the Jays’ sputtering offence, Bo Bichette breaking out of his early-season funk, and Jose Berrios’ rough outing on Thursday. James Mirtle, senior managing editor and NHL columnist for The Athletic, joins the show to chat about which Leafs players have the most pressure on their shoulders heading into Game 3, Jack Campbell being under the microscope going head-to-head against Andrei Vasilevskiy, and Sheldon Keefe’s intent on establishing a physical presence in this series (25:40). The team closes out the show by delivering a special farewell to our outgoing technical producer, Vicken Polatian (43:34). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

ESPN NHL reporter Kristen Shilton joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss Sheldon Keefe’s looming lineup decisions for Game 3, the potential benefits of reinserting Jason Spezza on the fourth line, and how Toronto might respond to their latest encounter with playoff adversity. Later, the crew tees up the betting lines for tonight’s Blue Jays-Guardians game and the Leafs’ Game 3 showdown against the Lightning. They also assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (24:18)!The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Sean Avery, former NHL forward and host of the No Gruffs Given podcast, joins the show to discuss Tampa’s championship mettle, Mitch Marner’s strong start to the series, the Leafs’ lack of discipline in Game 2, how Toronto’s blue line stacks up against the Lightning’s forward group, and potential lineup changes for the Leafs in Game 3. Then, the crew chats about the Blue Jays’ 6-5 loss to the Guardians on Thursday night, George Springer’s omission from the lineup, and Jose Berrios’ poor outing (28:09). Later, UFC lightweight contender Justin Gaethje stops by to discuss his lightweight title fight against Charles Oliveira on Saturday night at UFC 274 (36:39). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

JD discusses his Friday night plans and how he intends to watch Game 3 between the Leafs and Lightning while also attending a wedding. Afterwards, the team chats about where Game 3 ranks on the Leafs’ must-win scale and which players are facing the most scrutiny heading into tonight’s game (13:44). Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (32:25)!The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Colby Armstrong, former NHL forward and current Sportsnet analyst, stops by to chat about Tampa’s resounding performance in Game 2, Alex Kerfoot’s positive impact on both ends of the ice, Michael Bunting’s return to the lineup, and the tight whistle on Wednesday night. Afterwards, Rick Tocchet, former NHL head coach and current NHL on TNT analyst, joins the show to discuss the coaching battle between Sheldon Keefe and Jon Cooper, the Leafs’ effectiveness with their transition game, Tampa’s improved structure on the power play, and how Toronto can make the Lightning uncomfortable with their forecheck (28:44). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Nick Kypreos, former NHL forward and co-host of Real Kyper and Bourne, weighs in on Wayne Simmonds’ undisciplined play in Game 2, the potential of reinserting Jason Spezza into the lineup for Game 3, John Tavares’ lack of involvement offensively and his diminishing footspeed, and Jack Campbell’s jittery presence in the crease on Wednesday. Later, JD, Blake and Ailish tee up the betting lines for tonight’s Blue Jays-Guardians game and assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (24:56). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Drive Time, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss the Blue Jays’ cold bats, lingering concerns about the team’s lineup depth, Toronto’s need for a quality left-handed bat, the Jays’ reliance on their pitching so far this season, and the modern discourse surrounding officiating in sports. Later, the team chats about their go-to gifts for Mother’s Day and why Cinco de Mayo isn’t widely celebrated in Canada (40:40). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss the Maple Leafs’ 5-3 loss to the Lightning in Game 2, Tampa’s improved play after the Leafs’ blowout win in the series opener, John Tavares and William Nylander struggling to find their rhythm, Toronto’s inability to stay out of the penalty box, and Sheldon Keefe’s impending decisions on the fourth line. Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List - featuring a special birthday shoutout (38:11)! The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Craig Simpson, former NHL forward, two-time Stanley Cup champion, and current Sportsnet analyst, stops by to discuss the Leafs generating momentum from their penalty kill, Toronto learning from their past playoff shortcomings, and the atmosphere inside Scotiabank Arena during Game 1. Former Blue Jays pitcher Ricky Romero checks in to chat about Toronto’s recent offensive dryspell, Alek Manoah’s dominant start to the season, Bo Bichette starting to find his rhythm at the plate, Nate Pearson’s journey to get back to the Big Leagues, and Kevin Gausman’s unique pitching repertoire (22:11). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Sportsnet’s Luke Fox joins the show to discuss Michael Bunting’s status for Game 2, if he should immediately rejoin the Leafs’ top line, Jason Spezza likely being a healthy scratch for a second straight game, and the Lightning’s power play issues in Game 1. Later, JD, Blake and Ailish tee up the betting lines for tonight’s Leafs-Lightning tilt and the Blue Jays’ series finale against the Yankees. They also assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (24:17). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Jeff Marek, host of The Jeff Marek Show and co-host of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss how Tampa might respond to adversity, Mitch Marner’s brilliant Game 1 performance, and the Leafs’ effective special teams play. Later, the crew chats about their takeaways from Masai Ujiri’s season-ending press conference, including the lack of clarity regarding the Raptors' path to contention (26:54). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss the Blue Jays’ 9-1 loss to the Yankees, Alek Manoah delivering another solid outing, the Jays’ mounting offensive woes, Bo Bichette’s recent defensive struggles at shortstop, and the missed calls from the umpiring crew during last night’s seventh inning. Then, the team chats about which storylines they’re most curious about heading into tonight’s Game 2 between the Leafs and Lightning, including Michael Bunting’s potential return, Jason Spezza’s lineup status, and Tampa’s response to their blowout loss in Game 1 (25:26). Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (35:09)!The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Kris Versteeg, former NHL forward and two-time Stanley Cup champion, discusses the Maple Leafs’ crucial five-minute penalty kill early in Game 1, Alex Kerfoot’s lineup versatility, David Kampf’s importance to the Leafs’ success, and Tampa’s lack of urgency in Game 1. Afterwards, Chris Chelios, Hockey Hall of Famer and current ESPN studio analyst, stops by to chat about his takeaways from the Leafs’ shutout win on Monday, Toronto’s dominant two-way game, and Kyle Clifford's potential punishment for his hit on Ross Colton (27:03).The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Jennifer Botterill, three-time Olympic Gold Medalist and current Sportsnet analyst, joins the show to discuss the Leafs’ poise in Game 1, Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner starting the post-season on a positive note, Alex Kerfoot’s tenacious disposition and his fit on the Leafs’ top line, Kyle Clifford’s ill-advised hit on Ross Colton, and Toronto's added physical edge. Later, JD, Blake and Ailish tee up the betting lines for tonight’s Blue Jays-Yankees game and assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (24:53). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.