
The FAN Pregame
2,104 episodes — Page 40 of 43
Hour 2: Canada's Journey to Qatar with Captain Atiba Hutchinson
Atiba Hutchinson joins the show to chat about Canada qualifying for the World Cup, experiencing the transformation of the men’s national program over the course of his career, the electric atmosphere at BMO Field on Sunday, and the special camaraderie shared by this team (2:21). Later, it’s time for Text Line Tuesday! The team heads to the text line to field questions and comments from listeners (30:03).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.
Hour 1: Is Pascal Siakam an All-NBA Player This Season?
JD, Blake and Ailish discuss the Raptors’ OT win over a shorthanded Celtics team, Thaddeus Young making a big impact off the bench, Pascal Siakam’s impressive 40-point night, his case for a spot on the All-NBA team, and the Raptors’ surge in the standings (0:32). Afterwards, it's Ailish's A-List (41:05).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.
Hour 3: World Cup Euphoria w/ Dwayne De Rosario + Wake and Rake
Jennifer Botterill phones in to chat about the Leafs signing Nick Abruzzese out of Harvard, lack of production from the fourth line, Sheldon Keefe’s criticism of William Nylander, and Mark Giordano’s seamless transition to Toronto's blue line (0:25). Next, former Team Canada captain Dwayne De Rosario joins the show to discuss his emotions during yesterday’s 4-nil win over Jamaica, what qualifying for the World Cup means for the future of Canadian soccer, the new wave of supporters that have emerged across the country, and Atiba Hutchinson’s longstanding commitment to the men’s national program (20:00). The team closes out the show by assembling their daily Wake and Rake parlay (36:52). 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.
Hour 2: Leafs Weekend Wrap-Up + Canada's Soccer Uprising w/ Dan Riccio
JD, Blake and Ailish discuss the Leafs getting "goalied" by Jake Allen on Saturday, William Nylander being demoted to the third line, Ilya Mikheyev's resurgence this season, and Mark Giordano brining added toughness to the blue line (1:37). Later, Dan Riccio stops by to chat about the transformation of the Canadian men's soccer program, the team's exciting style of play, how Canada might fare at the World Cup, and what this achievement means for the future of the sport in Canada (30:29).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.
Hour 1: JD Witnesses Canadian Soccer History + Ailish's Courtside Nightmare
Ailish details her experience sitting courtside for the Raptors-Pacers game on Saturday and being forced to evacuate due to the speaker fire at Scotiabank Arena (1:40). JD Also recounts his experience witnessing history at BMO Field on Sunday, and the team shared their thoughts on Canada punching their ticket to the 2022 FIFA World Cup (12:00). Later, Ailish delivers her daily edition of the A-List, highlighted by Will Smith's eventful night at the Oscars (37:32). 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.
Hour 3: The Blue Jays' Quest for Redemption w/ Dan Shulman + Wake and Rake
Dan Shulman stops by to discuss Raimel Tapia's fit with the Blue Jays, expectations for Vladimir Guerrero Jr. this season, the team having a collective chip on their shoulder after last year's disappointing end to the season, and Chet Holmgren's ceiling as a prospect (1:03). Later, Kris Abbott stops by to help JD and Ailish assemble the show's daily Wake and Rake parlay (30:42).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.
Hour 2: Plenty of Room on the CanMNT Bandwagon w/ Iain Hume
Alvin Williams joins JD and Ailish to discuss Pascal Siakam elevating his game this season, how the Raptors have benefitted from play position-less basketball, and Scottie Barnes' chances of usurping Evan Mobley for Rookie of the Year (0:24). Later, Iain Hume checks in to discuss Canada's 1-nil loss to Costa Rica, Mark-Anthony Kaye picking up two costly yellow cards, and how Italy's World Cup omission might help Canada develop some additional homegrown fans (32:33).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.
Hour 1: Raptors Statement Win + Jays Make Another Move
JD and Ailish discuss the Raptors' pivotal win over the Cavaliers on Thursday, OG Anunoby's return to the lineup, Pascal Siakam's impressive 35-point performance, the Raptors' commitment to position-less basketball, and the head-to-head Rookie of the Year battle between Scottie Barnes and Evan Mobley (0:52). Later, the two weigh in on the Blue Jays' acquisition of Raimel Tapia from the Rockies for Randal Grichuk (31:00). They also indulge in another edition of the A-List and chat about Canada's 1-nil loss to the Costa Rica in World Cup qualifying (39:56)The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.
Hour 3: Barnes vs. Mobley w/ Bobby Marks + Wake and Rake
Bobby Marks joins the show to chat about the three-way battle for NBA Rookie of the Year, the long-term ceilings of Scottie Barnes and Evan Mobley, and concerns about the Brooklyn Nets heading into the playoffs (0:23). Later, the team reviews their bets from Wednesday, tee up the odds for tonight's Raptors-Cavaliers game and Canada-Costa Rica match, and assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (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.
Hour 2: Leafs Newcomers and Igniting Tavares w/ Jamal Mayers
JD, Blake and Ailish discuss Scottie Barnes' case for Rookie of the Year, tonight's head-to-head matchup against Evan Mobley, and the Raptors' quest to avoid the play-in tournament (0:23). Afterwards, Jamal Mayers stops by to chat about the Leafs' jersey collaboration with Justin Bieber, Mark Giordano providing Toronto with a calming presence on the blue line, Colin Blackwell adding some grit to the team's bottom-six, Ilya Mikheyev's effectiveness as a penalty killer, and why Sheldon Keefe should experiment with John Tavares on the same line as Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner (25:22).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.
Hour 1: Giordano First Impressions + Bieber's Fashion Influence
JD, Blake and Ailish discuss Mark Giordano's debut with the Leafs, impressions of Toronto's Justin Bieber inspired Next Gen uniforms, the Raptors' branding relationship with Drake, Ilya Mikheyev's strong season, and the Miami Dolphins acquiring Tyreek Hill from the Kansas City Chiefs for a package of draft picks (0:53). Later, it's Ailish's A-List and the team tees up tonight's Canada-Costa Rica World Cup qualifying match (39:15).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.
Hour 4: Giordano Scouting Report and Blue Line Pairings w/ Kris Versteeg
Kris Versteeg chats about his experience playing with Mark Giordano in Calgary, the intangibles Giordano brings to the Leafs' locker room, his fit alongside Timothy Liljegren, and Auston Matthews' pursuit of the Hart Trophy (0:20). Later, the morning show team discusses the Blue Jays agreeing to terms on new deals with their arbitration-eligible players, the team's payroll for 2022, and other moves the organization might make before Opening Day (26:38).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.
Hour 3: Dubas' Reputation w/ Nick Kypreos + Wake and Rake
Nick Kypreos joins the show to discuss Colin Blackwell being an underrated addition for the Leafs, the organization's confidence in Jack Campbell, and Kyle Dubas' perception by other executives around the NHL (0:46). Afterwards, the crew assembles their daily Wake and Rake parlay (30:34).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.
Hour 2: Should the Blue Jays Pursue Ketel Marte w/ Ben Ennis?
Ben Ennis stops by to discuss the Blue Jays' reported interest in Brett Gardner, his early takeaways from spring training games, why Ketel Marte might be an appropriate target for the Blue Jays, and MLB experimenting with a new pitch-calling dive (0:38). Then, Jeff Van Gundy phones in to discuss Scottie Barnes' Rookie of the Year candidacy, and the current crop of title contenders in the East (27:07).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.
Hour 1: Leafs Post-Deadline Storylines
JD, Blake and Ailish discuss some of the top Maple Leafs storylines heading down the stretch of the regular season, including Sheldon Keefe's management of the blue line, the team's goaltending situation, and Auston Matthews' Hart candidacy (6:54). Afterwards, it's Ailish's A-List (44:11)!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.
Hour 4: Leafs Cap Gymnastics and Dubas-Davidson Drama w/ James Mirtle
James Mirtle phones in to discuss the Leafs' deadline activity, trade talks that fell through with Vancouver and Winnipeg, Toronto's cap crunch, Kyle Dubas showing frustration with Kyle Davidson and the Coyotes in his press conference, and Mark Giordano's potential blue line partner (1:45). Afterwards, the team heads back to the text line to take your questions and comments (27:35).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.
Hour 3: How Concerning is Fred VanVleet's Injury? + Wake and Rake
JD, Blake and Ailish discuss their level of concern regarding Fred VanVleet's lingering knee injury, the Raptors dropping a pivotal game against Chicago on Monday, and Scottie Barnes' improved playmaking since the All-Star break (0:45). Later, the team heads to the text line where listeners share their grades on the Leafs' deadline activity (20:13). Then they review their bets from Monday and assemble their daily Wake an Rake parlay (30:34).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.
Hour 2: Trade Deadline Winners and Losers w/ Jeff Marek
Jeff Marek stops by to chat about the Leafs' moves in advance of yesterday's trade deadline, the fallout for Kyle Dubas, and the biggest winners and losers from deadline day (0:26). Later the crew heads to the text line to field questions and comments from listeners (26:56).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.
Hour 1: Grading the Leafs' Deadline + Dubas Banks on Campbell
JD, Blake and Ailish grade Kyle Dubas' performance at the trade deadline, and weigh in on the Leafs' decision to protect their first-round pick and prospects, the organization showing faith in Jack Campbell, and Dubas' frustration with Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson (3:57). Afterwards, it's the A-List (40:30)!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.
Hour 4: Projecting Leafs Blue Line Pairings w/ Justin Bourne & Kevin Bieksa
Justin Bourne joins the show to discuss the Leafs potentially looking to add another depth forward, what another first round playoff exit would mean for the team's front office, where Mark Giordano fits on Toronto's reshaped blue line, and Colin Blackwell's lineup versatility (0:20). To wrap, Kevin Bieksa stops by to weigh in on the Leafs' possible defensive pairings, the importance of finding a steady partner for Morgan Rielly, how Toronto stacks up in the Atlantic, and why the team would be wise to target Tyler Motte ahead of the deadline (24:45).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.
Hour 3: Dubas' Deadline Plan w/ Elliotte Friedman + Wake and Rake
Elliotte Friedman phones in to chat about the Leafs missing out on Hampus Lindholm, Kyle Dubas' reluctance to move first-round picks and top prospects, Dubas' job security beyond this season, and other names that could be on the move around the NHL in advance of today's 3pm deadline (0:52). Later, the team discusses their bets from the opening weekend of March Madness and assembles their daily Wake and Rake parlay (30:55).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.
Hour 2: Leafs Trade Deadline Check In w/ Frank Seravalli
Frank Seravalli stops by to discuss teams getting ahead of the trade market with rental acquisitions over the weekend, Mark Giordano's fit with the Maple Laefs, and whether Kyle Dubas will make another move before today's deadline (0:18). Later, the team chats about the Raptors' win over the Sixers Sunday, the team's defensive performance against Joel Embiid, and Precious Achiuwa's recent emergence (30:24).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.
Hour 1: Leafs Make a Splash!
Ailish is back! JD, Blake and Ailish discuss the Leafs' outlook for deadline day, the team's acquisition of Mark Giordano from Seattle, Travis Dermott's departure, and whether Toronto should target another goaltender before today's 3pm deadline (0:52). Afterwards, it's the A-List (40:39). 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.
Hour 4: Leafs Deadline Limitations w/ Nick Kypreos
Nick Kypreos joins Blake and Justin to share his first impressions of Erik Källgren, how the Leafs' trade priorities have shifted over the past month, if Mitch Marner should remain on a line with John Tavares, and why a big trade might not be in the cards for Kyle Dubas before Monday's deadline (0:40). Later, Clark Kellogg chats about the biggest surprised from Day 1 of March Madness and Duke's outlook as Coach K begins his final NCAA tournament (27:48). Then Aneela Khan stops by to tee up the women's March Madness tournament, the plethora of Canadian prospects in the field, and South Carolina's dominance all season (36:58).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.
Hour 3: How Good Can the Raptors Really Be? w/ Will Lou + Wake and Rake
Will Lou phones in to chat about the Raptors' current five-game win streak, the team's potential ceiling this season, Scottie Barnes' continued maturation, the importance of reintegrating OG Anunoby before the post-season, Khem Birch's inconsistency, and Toronto's quest to avoid the play-in tournament (0:40). Afterwards, Kris Abbott stops by to chat about the chaos from Day 1 of March Madness and offers his best bets for the weekend, and helps assemble the daily Wake and Rake parlay (26:00).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.
Hour 2: How Will Kyle Dubas Navigate the Murky Trade Deadline Market?
Luke Fox joins the show to discuss Erik Källgren taking advantage of his opportunity amidst Petr Mrázek's continued struggles, Kyle Dubas' level of urgency to make a deal before Monday's deadline, the Leafs' interest in Jacob Middleton, and John Tavares' strong player over the last two games with Auston Matthews sidelines (0:22). Then, Ben Wagner checks in from Dunedin to chat about the vibe at Jays camp, Matt Chapman's impact on the team's championship aspirations, Vlad Jr.'s determined mindset for 2022, and the importance of getting a full season from George Springer (26:02).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.
Hour 1: Can Erik Källgren Carry the Load Until Campbell Returns?
Blake and Justin discuss the Leafs' 3-2 win over the Hurricanes on Thursday, Erik Källgren providing the Leafs with a steady hand in between the pipes, and potential trade fits for Toronto on the blue line (3:01). Later, the guys weigh in on the Raiders' acquisition of Davante Adams and the Baker Mayfield drama (36:40).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.
Hour 4: Leafs Deadline Uncertainty and Possible Targets w/ Justin Bourne
Justin Bourne stops by to discuss why the Leafs may be desperate to make a move ahead of Monday's trade deadline, the lack of obvious trade targets on the blue line, and the team's reported desire to reshape their fourth line (6:36). Later, Joe Siddall checks in from Dunedin to chat about the buzz around Jays camp, the team's catching situation, and why José Ramírez would be an ideal fit for Toronto (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.
Hour 3: Could Mark Giordano Be a Fit for the Leafs? + Wake and Rake
Frank Seravalli phones into discuss the Panthers' acquisition cost for Ben Chiarot, what it means for other defencemen on the trade market, Mark Giordano's desire to play in Toronto, the Leafs' reluctance to move their first-round pick and prospects for a rental, and if Kyle Dubas is canvassing the market for possible goaltending reinforcements (0:44). Later, the morning team tees up the betting odds for tonight's Leafs-Hurricanes game, offers their favourite picks for the opening day of March Madness, and assembles their daily Wake and Rake parlay (36:29).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.
Hour 2: Jays' Measured Approach w/ Shi Davidi + Will Buxton on the 2022 F1 Season
Shi Davidi stops by to discuss the Blue Jays' chances of striking a deal for José Ramírez, the team's desire to make additional moves before Opening Day, the depth of Toronto's farm system, and the current composition of the bullpen (2:57). Afterwards, Will Buxton chats about how Netflix's Drive to Survive series has contributed to the growth of Formula 1 in North America, Max Verstappen's decision to not participate in the show, the rivalry between Mercedes and Red Bull, and how the new regulations will impact the level of parity on the grid in 2022 (28:10).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.
Hour 1: Will José Ramírez Be the Jays’ Next Big Move?
JD, Blake and Justin discuss the latest speculation surrounding a possible José Ramírez trade, why the timing would be appropriate to invest meaningful prospect capital in a Ramírez deal, and Elliotte Friedman's latest reporting regarding the Leafs' trade deadline plans (0:46). Later, the crew weighs in on the Raptors' current give-game winning streak and the team's quest to crack the top six in the Eastern Conference (41:33).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.
Hour 4: What Matt Chapman Brings to the Jays + Next Moves
Ben Nicholson-Smith joins the show to comment on the Jays' reported acquisition of Matt Chapman, his elite defensive prowess at third base, the market for Kyle Schwarber, the organization's desire to add a left-handed bat, which prospects might be heading back to the Athletics in the Chapman trade, and the Jays likely being out of the Freddie Freeman sweepstakes (0:54). Afterwards, Ben Ennis stops by to talk about the defensive impact that Chapman will bring to the Jays, what the addition means for Hyun-jin Ryu, how Chapman fits in the batting order, and what the Jays may look to add next (27:29).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.
Hour 3: Breaking Down the Matt Chapman Trade w/ Carlos Baerga, Jon Morosi & Jim Bowden
Carlos Baerga phones in to chat about his report that the Blue Jays have traded for Oakland Athletics third baseman Matt Chapman, what the return may be, and other players the Jays might be pursuing (1:08). Next, Jon Morosi stops by to give his thoughts on the deal, what Chapman brings to the team, the possible return, how these talk would've started, and where the team is at in its pursuit of Kyle Schwarber (16:40). Then the morning crew assembles a quick Wake and Rake parlay (34:14). To finish the hour, Jim Bowden gives his perspective on the trade, how Chapman fits with the Jays, possible return, how he would grade the trade with what info he has, and whether Eddie Rosario would make sense for Toronto (38:47).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.
Hour 2: A Blue Jays Trade?!
Stephen Brunt joins the show to discuss the weirdness surrounding this year's Leafs team, the urgency within the Blue Jays' front office, ownership's commitment to investing in this team, Vlad and Bo holding leverage in their contract situation, and if Toronto would consider dipping into their prospect capital to make a big move (1:32). Later, the morning team discusses Carlos Baerga's report that the Blue Jays are close to acquiring Matt Chapman from the Oakland Athletics (32:38). 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.
Hour 1: First Impressions of Erik Källgren + Blue Jays Waiting Game
JD, Blake and Justin discuss Erik Källgren notching a shutout, in his first NHL start, contrasting his style to that of Petr Mrazek's, Sheldon Keefe's post-game comments about his team's goaltending issues this season, the possibility of adding a top-six forward to complement John Tavares ahead of Monday's deadline, and the latest buzz surrounding the Jays' pursuit of Freddie Freeman and Kyle Schwarber (1:08). Later, the team delivers a mini A-List (40:56).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.
Hour 4: Rick Tocchet on the Leafs' Volatile Goaltending + Caleb Joseph
Former Blue Jays catcher Caleb Joseph phones in to chat about former teammate Yusei Kikuchi, the pitcher's strengths, who Kikuchi reminds him of, the intricacies of catching, and what makes Danny Jansen special (2:00). Afterwards, Rick Tocchet stops by to discuss Auston Matthews' suspension, Petr Mrazek's style of play, the state of the Leafs' goaltending, the importance of playing a complete game, and Sheldon Keefe's defensive deployment (24:25).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.
Hour 3: Freddie Freeman Buzz w/ Jeff Blair + Wake and Rake
Jeff Blair joins the show to discuss the Jays' desire to add an impact left-handed bat, the buzz surrounding Freddie Freeman and Kyle Schwarber, the prospect of Vlad Jr. moving back to third base, and Jose Ramirez's trade value (0:32). Afterwards, the morning drew tees up the betting lines for tonight's Leafs-Stars game, and assembles their daily Wake and Rake parlay (30:05).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.
Hour 2: Leafs Trade Deadline Agenda w/ Jeff Marek
Jeff Marek stops by to discuss the legacy of Scott Hall, Matthews' suspension, how the Leafs will cope with his absence over the next two games, Toronto's biggest priorities ahead of next Monday's trade deadline, and the ramifications of the Josh Manson deal on the trade market (0:30). Later, the morning crew heads to the text line to respond to comments and questions from listeners (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.
Hour 1: Blue Jays Rumour Mill + Matthews' Suspension
JD, Blake and Justin discuss Auston Matthews receiving a two-game suspension for his cross-check on Rasmus Dahlin, Colorado's acquisition cost for Josh Manson, the Blue Jays' reported pursuit of Freddie Freeman and Kyle Schwarber, how both players would fit in the Jays' lineup, and Scottie Barnes delivering another standout performance in a win over the Lakers (2:18). Later, the group chats about the Jaguars' free agency spending spree (43:23).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.
Hour 4: Dubas' Deadline Pressures + the Jays' Plan for Pearson w/ Arden Zwelling
The morning team chats about Petr Mrazek's poor play with the Maple Leafs, how the front office might manage his contract situation beyond this season, the prospect of adding another blue liner and how it might impact the team's outlook, and the pressure on Kyle Dubas to make a move of consequence before next Monday's trade deadline (0:24). To wrap, Arden Zwelling discusses the Blue Jays adding Yusei Kikuchi, why the organization is enamored with his pitching arsenal, Nate Pearson's mechanical adjustments on the mound, and the Jays' interested in a potential reunion with Jonathan Villar (25:07).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.
Hour 3: What is Scottie Barnes' Ceiling? + Wake and Rake
Michael Grange phones in to chat about the Raptors' back-to-back wins against Phoenix and Denver over the weekend, the team's tendency to play up against good competition, the Lakers' perils this season, Scottie Barnes' continued progression, and his chances of winning Rookie of the Year (0:18). Later, the morning crew tees up the betting lines for Raptors-Lakers, and assembles the daily Wake and Rake parlay (28:00).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.
Hour 2: Blue Jays Spring Training Storylines w/ Ben Ennis
Ben Ennis joins the show to chat about MLB's new CBA, the top Jays storylines heading into spring training, the signing of Yusei Kikuchi, the team's plans for Nate Pearson, the prospect of pursuing Kyle Schwarber, and other holes the front office might look to address before Opening Day (4:13). Afterwards, they chat about expectations for Gabriel Moreno and the release of Drive to Survive season four (36:16). 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.
Hour 1: Toronto Maple Leafs ... Weirdest Team Ever!
JD, Blake and Justin discuss the Leafs' 5-2 loss to the Sabres in the Heritage Classic, Petr Mrazek's sustained struggles this season, if the team needs to pursue a goalie via trade, and the Blue Jays' signing of Yusei Kikuchi (1:05). Afterwards, the team weighs in on Tom Brady's decision to unretire and return to the Buccaneers (37:16).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.
Hour 4: Reopening the Jays' Window w/ Dan Shulman + James Mirtle on the Leafs' Deadline Plans
A very happy Dan Shulman joins the morning team as the Blue Jays begin to report to Spring Training down in Dunedin. They discuss the idea of prospect capital, kick around a few mock trades, and securing pieces to bolster the bullpen (3:12). Plus, Dan gives a few nuggets for the upcoming March Madness tournament, including a Canadian to watch in Arizona (22:15). Afterwards, The Athletic's James Mirtle takes a look at the coming trade deadline, what Petr Mrazek's trade value is right now, and if the recent goaltending struggles have changed Kyle Dubas' plans (27:45).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.
Hour 3: Potential Blue Jays Targets to Watch + Wake and Rake
Ben Nicholson-Smith stops by to chat about the new CBA, how much the Blue Jays should be looking into Kris Bryant, how the vaccination status of players will play into the free agent market (especially when it comes to signing in Toronto), and how much the Jays value prospects like Gabriel Moreno and Orelvis Martinez (0:23). Plus, Coolbet's Kris Abbott stops by for the Friday edition of the 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.
Hour 2: MLB Free Agency Madness and Blue Jays' Priorities w/ Jon Morosi
JD, Blake and Justin bring on MLB Insider Jon Morosi to take a look around the free agency market, including agents discussing new deals for clients such as Carlos Correa and Freddie Freeman and what they're looking for (0:45). Jon also discusses the remaining priorities for the Blue Jays, including the potential for more starting pitching, and the availability of Jose Ramirez (7:32). To finish the hour, the morning team has a discussion on the Auston Matthews no-call in overtime against the Coyotes, and how he needs to be getting more calls overall (39:57).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.
Hour 1: The Opportunity Cost of Upgrading the Leafs' Goaltending
JD, Blake and Justin break down the Leafs' loss to the Coyotes, which falls on the shoulders of the goaltending with Jack Campbell out for two weeks with a rib injury. They discuss the play of Petr Mrazek, the need to acquire a new goaltender to pair with Campbell once he returns, and the potential for the Leafs to trade another first round pick to acquire an upgrade in net (0:38). They also kick around several names that might be available on the trade market (19:58). Later, the guys break down the new MLB CBA and rule changes on the week's final edition of the A-List (31:37)!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.
Hour 4: Why the International MLB Draft Has Become a Sticking Point
Bomani Jones stops by to discuss his new sports talk show 'Game Theory' on HBO, and why such a late-night talk show format hasn't really been done before, before touching on James Harden vs. Kevin Durant, and if the fan - athlete relationship has changed for the better or worse (3:17). Afterwards, MLB Network's Jim Duquette stops by to give a former GM's perspective on where the MLB labour negotiations are at, and why the International Draft has become a contentious part of the discussions (29:43).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.
Hour 3: Leafs Vibe Check w/ Colby Armstrong + Wake and Rake
Colby Armstrong joins the show to to chat about his latest trip around the world for Sportsnet hot off a visit to Vegas. He discusses Auston Matthews' place as the best player in hockey, and also admits to losing to Cabbie in Topgolf (2:23). Afterwards, the morning crew discusses cringeworthy encounters they've had with athletes, DeMar DeRozan coming through for the Bulls (once again), and get to Wake and Rake picks (29:56).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.
Hour 2: Inside the Leafs' Defensive Analytics w/ Ian Tulloch
JD, Blake and Justin bring on Ian Tulloch to discuss the role of a few Leafs defencemen, including the recent play of Timothy Liljegren, how prominent his minutes should be going forward, the various pairings for Liljegren, the play of Morgan Rielly since signing his new contract, how Ilya Lybushkin has looked since arriving from Arizona, and how a lot of the discussions surrounding the defence hinges on the health of Jake Muzzin (0:56). Afterwards, the morning team chats about Carson Wentz getting traded to the Washington Commanders, whether or not that moves the needle, and what's next with the 2022 QB carousel (36:17).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.