Baseball Central @ Noon

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker open Friday's program with a preview of this afternoon's Blue Jays vs. Rays spring training game. They look back on Thursday's 8-7 loss to the Marlins and discuss Andrés Giménez' first home run of the spring, before projecting how the Jays rotation and 26-man roster might come together ahead of Opening Day. The boys also take a moment to chat about Alek Manoah's comments about Toronto's World Series run, before Jayson Stark (15:08) of The Athletic joins to discuss his recent piece on the Blue Jays outlook in 2026. He debates if the team is better equipped this season, how to manage the rotation, and Jeff Hoffman's opportunity to bounce back. Later, MLB Network host Robert Flores (30:50) chats about the Jays' ability to rebound this year, the players at camp he's keeping his eye on, the Max Scherzer signing, the upcoming World Baseball Classic and Tarik Skubal's limited availability. 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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker open Thursday's podcast with thoughts on Blue Jays re-signing Max Scherzer to a one-year, $3 million deal with plenty of incentives. Ben Nicholson-Smith (10:47), Sportsnet's MLB insider and host of At the Letters, joins the boys to share how this morning breaking news came together and who might be the odd-man-out of the rotation. BNS also highlights Cody Ponce's first start in a Blue Jays uniform, the bats vying for a roster spot, and how the batting order might shape up. Later, we hear from the man himself, Max Scherzer (27:25)! The starter shares what sparked his reunion with the Jays, his goals for the upcoming season, and his thoughts on the ABS system. 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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker open today's show with a recap of the Blue Jays' 8-7 loss to the Yankees in spring training action. They tee up Cody Ponce's start this afternoon against the Tigers, discuss how to properly evaluate talent in the Grapefruit League, and gauge their expectations for Eloy Jiménez, Jesús Sánchez and Daulton Varsho in 2026. Adam Ottavino (14:50), former MLB pitcher and host of Baseball and Coffee, chats about his return to the mound for Team Italy in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Adam also touches on the Yankees' mentality against the Blue Jays, Gerrit Cole's return to the mound, the American League East landscape, and the newly-implemented ABS system. Later, we hear the latest from Manager John Schneider, before Sportsnet's Caleb Joseph (29:34) joins the program. They chat about how players are utilizing the challenge system early on, Ponce's first Blue Jays start, what Drew Butera brings to the coaching staff, and the opportunity for some Rule 5 relievers. 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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker open today's show reacting to Kazuma Okamoto's first Blue Jays home run in Monday's spring training game. The boys take some time to set up this afternoon's game against the Yankees and look back on José Berríos first start of the spring, before discussing Ricky Tiedemann's setback, Eric Lauer's post-arbitration comments, and Tyler Rogers first impressions. Later, the boys question how the American League East will shake out in 2026, share an update on Trey Yesavage as he continues to ramp up, and project where Jesús Sánchez might slot into the batting order. Jeff and Kevin wrap up with thoughts what Drew Butera brings to the Jays coaching staff, Brandon Valenzuela's upside, and some positional battles around the diamond. 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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker kick off a new week on the program breaking down the Blue Jays first two games of Spring Training. They begin with thoughts on what José Berríos' role might look like this season, Shane Bieber's status as we ramp up to Opening Day, and first impressions of Kazuma Okamoto. The boys then set up this afternoon's game against the Mets and discuss the scrutiny surrounding Bo Bichette's first reps at third base. Sportsnet's Madison Shipman (18:01) joins to share her early takeaways from Jays camp so far including Daulton Varsho's breakout potential and Berríos' first spring start today. Later Tim Britton (27:08) of The Athletic checks in on Bichette's work at the hot corner, how Canadian Jonah Tong might factor into the pitching staff, Francisco Lindor's injury, positional battles around the diamond, and more! 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 affiliates.

With the Blue Jays' Grapefruit League season kicking off on Saturday, Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker open up the Back Leg Line for the first time this season to take your calls and questions! They get into how the Jays will replace Bo Bichette's offensive production, how the team can avoid another slow start to the season, and whether a 'bullpen-by-committee' can work in the playoffs. Then, Jeff and Kevin react to the news that the Blue Jays are negotiating with Max Scherzer before welcoming Greg Hamilton (30:49), Director of National Teams and Baseball Canada coach, to the show to help set the stage for the World Baseball Classic. Greg discusses the WBC's evolution since its debut in 2006, what he's looking forward to most at the tournament, and the state of Canadian baseball.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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker continue to count down to the Blue Jays' first taste of Grapefruit League action against the Philadelphia Phillies on Saturday. They discuss the introduction of the ABS challenge rule and whether any Jays will be 'exempt' from using it in a game. Then, they look at the rotation and project who will occupy the fourth and fifth starter roles, share expectations for Trey Yesavage's first full MLB season, and react to the news that Kevin Gausman is considering retirement following this year. Later, Blue Jays radio voice Ben Shulman stops by (25:45) from Dunedin to discuss the mood around camp, the battle for roster spots in the bullpen, Ricky Tiedemann's Spring outlook, and where Leo Jimenez fits in the mix of infielders.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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker follow up on yesterday's conversation on whether or not the Blue Jays are better than they were at this point last year. Then, they discuss whether Leo Jimenez could crack the big-league roster, pitchers on the roster bubble, what to expect from Kazuma Okamoto in the field, and the pressure on Jeff Hoffman. Sportsnet MLB insider Shi Davidi (28:54) joins the show from Dunedin to share insight into the timeline of Anthony Santander's injury, his first impressions of Dylan Cease and Cody Ponce, the team's plan for Okamoto, and much more.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 affiliates.

With Spring Training games around the corner, Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker are back to their daily schedule! They start with Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s comments about being 'happier' this season, whether the Jays are better this year than last year — even without Bo Bichette, and where the Jays stand in a much-improved American League. Then, they discuss the biggest camp storylines for the Jays, including where Kazuma Okamoto will line up, whether the number of Jays in the World Baseball Classic is cause for concern, and if Jesús Sánchez fits as a clean-up hitter. Later, ESPN MLB insider Jeff Passan (32:02) stops by to discuss what Tony Clark's recent resignation as MLBPA executive director means for upcoming MLB CBA talks and why players should be concerned about an impending lockout.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 affiliates.

With pitchers and catchers reporting for Spring Training, Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker are back! They discuss what to expect from a post-Bo Bichette Blue Jays lineup, how Kazuma Okamoto's production in Japan will translate to the MLB level, and why the bullpen is still the biggest weakness heading into the 2026 regular season. Then, they get into José Berríos's role for the Jays moving forward, Toronto's standing in a much-improved AL East, and whether there's cause for concern over the number of Jays participating in the World Baseball Classic.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 affiliates.

Blake Murphy and Kevin Barker are in for an offseason edition to react to Kyle Tucker signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers, the New York Mets signing Bo Bichette, and what it means for the Blue Jays. They start with Bo and what the Jays' lineup will look like without their long-time shortstop and his fit at third base with the Mets. Then, they discuss where the Jays may turn for an impact bat, how aggressively they should approach Cody Bellinger's market, and whether adding to the bullpen is a higher priority at this point. Finally, Blake and Kevin look at Cardinals' infielder Brendan Donovan as a potential trade target, and where the Jays stand in an improved AL East if their offseason work is now complete.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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Sho Alli listen in on the Toronto Blue Jays' newest addition, Kazumo Okamoto's press conference. They follow up with their thoughts on the move, a discussion on what the six-time NPB All-Star brings to the lineup, and a projection of what comes next in the Blue Jays' offseason, including where the team stands in Bo Bichette and Kyle Tucker's market.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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker are back for a special holiday edition! They kick off with a quick recap of the Toronto Blue Jays' offseason, discuss the team's plans in the position player market — be it Bo Bichette, Kyle Tucker or Alex Bregman — and share their favourite memories from the World Series and the Jays' unforgettable 2025 season. Then, they get into the team's need for a ninth-inning reliever, their trust in Ross Atkins and John Schneider moving forward, and whether the Jays' success can be sustained in 2026. Later, Jeff and Kevin take the temperature of the AL East as the Yankees stay quiet while the Orioles get aggressive. For the final word of 2025, the guys share some early 2026 World Series picks and project where Bichette will land.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 affiliates.

For the final episode of 2025 —barring any emergency podcasts— Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker open with their reactions to the Atlanta Braves taking closer Robert Suárez off the market with a 3-year, $45M deal. Then, they share their thoughts on Jeff Passan's report that the Jays could be in on both Bo Bichette and Kyle Tucker. MLB Network's Dan Plesac joins the show (13:08) to discuss the Jays' narrowing options for a top-end reliever, why Pete Fairbanks makes sense as a target for Toronto, how Dylan Cease can improve under Pete Walker and the Yankees' offseason uncertainties. Later, ESPN's Jesse Rogers stops by (34:32) to discuss Tucker's market, how he'd fit in with the Jays' culture and how Bo's defence impacts his free agent value.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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker check in on the final day of MLB Winter Meetings in Orlando. They react to Pete Alonso signing a 5-year, $155M deal with the Baltimore Orioles, follow up with some takeaways from Dylan Cease's introductory press conference yesterday, and revisit Shane Bieber's decision to pick up his player option. Cease's former manager and current Orioles instructor, Mike Shildt, joins the show (10:20) to share what the starter brings to Toronto, what he's like away from the mound, and a scouting report on a potential Jays target, Robert Suárez. Later, former MLB executive Thad Levine (31:27) shares his thoughts on the Jays' offseason so far, how the team navigates the José Berríos situation, a front office POV of Kyle Tucker, and the fundamental importance of roster turnover.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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker open today's program ahead of this afternoon's introductory press conference for new Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher, Dylan Cease. The boys sift through the news of the day including Edwin Diaz's three-year, $69 million contract with the Dodgers and Kyle Schwarber's five-year, $150 million extension with the Phillies. Sportsnet Shi Davidi (03:19) checks in from MLB's Winter Meetings with thoughts on what the Blue Jays are now prioritizing this offseason, the names potentially on the table for the team, Shane Bieber's status for 2026, and what's next for José Berríos. Later, Jeff and Kevin listen back to John Schneider's comments reflecting on the 2025 World Series, before heading live to Orlando to listen to Cease's introductory press conference (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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker are back for the week to cover MLB's winter meetings! They go through the Blue Jays' early offseason moves, what free agents they'd be willing to part with, the need for a closer, and back-up plans if the team can't bring Bo Bichette back. MLB Network insider Jon Morosi joins the show (16:00) from the winter meetings in Orlando to discuss Jeff Kent's selection to the Baseball Hall of Fame and whether voters will ever change tunes on Roger Clemens, Barry Bonds and Don Mattingly. Then, Morosi shares his impressions of the trade talks in Orlando, where the Blue Jays fit into the conversations surrounding big-name relievers, and what contracts for Bo, Kyle Tucker and Cody Bellinger might look like. Finally, Jeff and Kevin discuss the contract status of the Jays' front office personnel and review some of the early offseason moves around the majors.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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker are back for an offseason edition as the Toronto Blue Jays have reportedly signed starting pitcher Dylan Cease to a 7-year, $210 million contract. They share their reactions to the move, what Cease can bring to Toronto's rotation, and what comes next on the Jays' list of offseason priorities. Sportsnet insider Shi Davidi (6:55) shares his thoughts on the signing, its impact on the team's plans moving forward, and what the rotation might look like with José Berríos and Louis Varland both competing for the 5th spot. Later, ESPN MLB insider Jeff Passan stops by (30:32) to discuss the timing of Cease's signing, the terms of the deal, and which position the Jays should target —by trade or signing— next. Finally, Passan looks at Bo Bichette's market and how he's valued as a free agent.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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker reconvene for an emergency podcast to discuss the Blue Jays reported signing of right-handed pitcher Dylan Cease to a 7-year, $210 million contract. It's the largest pitching contract handed out by Toronto in franchise history and Blair and Barker break it all down!  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 affiliates. 

We hear from Blue Jays President and CEO Mark Shapiro and General Manager Ross Atkins discussing a wide range of topics, including Shapiro's contract, Bo Bichette's free agency, Shane Bieber picking up his player option and much more! Plus, Jeff Blair heads to the Back-Leg Line to get your reactions on the Jays' front office end-of-season media avails.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 affiliates.

Former MLB President and host of 'Nothing Personal' David Samson (1:28) joins Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker to chat about how he would plan for the upcoming offseason, assessing 'breakout years' from the likes of Ernie Clement and George Springer, Jeff Hoffman overcoming the game-tying home run in Game 7, Yoshinobu Yamamoto's uniqueness, how he would rank the 2025 World Series, Bo Bichette's free agency and if load management will increase amongst the teams. Then, Jeff and Kevin head to the Back-Leg Line for the final time this season!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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker reflect on the Toronto Blue Jays' Game 7 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers, falling short of a World Series title. They break down the game, including Jeff Hoffman giving up a game-tying home run to the Dodgers' nine-hole hitter and Isiah Kiner-Falefa's base-running in the ninth inning. Then, they share positive takeaways from the Jays' run that they can build on in 2026, which aspects of the team may regress, and whether resigning Bo Bichette will be a priority in the offseason. Later, Blue Jays Central analyst Caleb Joseph (31:56) weighs in on IKF's base-running, silver linings from the Jays' loss, and the next step for Ross Atkins and Mark Shapiro.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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker hear from both Bo Bichette and John Schneider ahead of Game 6, reacting to Bo's comments about his future, returning from injury to play in the World Series, his maturity through the years within the Blue Jays' organization, and John's comments on how he spent Halloween at his doorstep a year ago to now having the chance to clinch a championship. Then, 3-time World Series Champion and former Blue Jays' manager Pat Gillick stops by (31:00) to chat about the 2025 Jays' roster compared to his 1992 & 1993 winning team, if we can expect a shift in hitting philosophy across the league after seeing the success by the Jays, the difficulties of winning "one more game", and difficulties of clinching back-to-back championships. 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 affiliates.

It's game day! Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker look ahead to Game 6, a potential World Series-clinching stage for the Jays against the Dodgers. They go through the lineup, including George Springer's return to the lead-off spot and Bo Bichette's corresponding move back to second base. Then, two-time World Series champ and MLB Network's Al Leiter joins the show (11:45) to discuss what mentality the Jays must have against a red-hot Yoshinobu Yamamoto, what Kevin Gausman can take away from Trey Yesavage's outing, and his memories from playing in the World Series. Later, Sportsnet play-by-play announcer Dan Shulman stops by (32:00) to share his confidence levels going into Game 6 against Yamamoto, the late-innings plan for Bichette, Addison Barger's growth, Chris Bassitt embracing the bullpen role, and his favourite moments from the booth through the Jays' playoff run.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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker are joined by 3-time World Series Champion and National Baseball Hall of Famer Jack Morris (4:20) to chat Trey Yesavage's historic Game 5 start in the World Series, the differences in pitching in the Fall Classic and regular season, how Kevin Gausman should approach pitching in a clincher, playing in extra-inning postseason games, the comfort of having Chris Bassitt coming out of the bullpen, and the Blue Jays surpassing the underdog title. Then, we hear from Blue Jays manager John Schneider a day before Game 6. Afterwards, Sportsnet.ca's Shi Davidi stops by (32:10) to discuss Addison Barger's at-bats, George Springer's status for Game 6, how much the break in-between the regular season and postseason helped Vladdy's monster performances and if other MLB teams will look to replicate the Jays' offensive approach. 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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker reflect on the Blue Jays' 6-1 win over the LA Dodgers in Game 5 to take a 3-2 World Series lead back to Toronto. They discuss Trey Yesavage's masterpiece on the mound and Addison Barger's awareness on the basepaths before looking ahead to Game 6 and how the Jays adjust to Yoshinobu Yamamoto the second time through. Later, MLB Network analyst Sean Casey joins the show (27:00) to share his thoughts on the Dodgers' stars' struggles, what to expect from Kevin Gausman in Game 6, how the Jays approach Yamamoto, and the impact the Rogers Centre crowd might have on Friday.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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker start the second hour leading up to Game 5 of the World Series with Baseball Today host and Jomboy Media's Chris Rose (1:00). He shares his impressions of the first four games of the Fall Classic, the Dodgers' bottom-of-the-order hole, Chris Bassitt's bullpen breakout, and a national POV of Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s postseason. Then, Jeff and Kevin throw to a snippet of Hazel Mae's sit-down with Andrés Giménez and discuss the shortstop's defensive impact. Later, they listen in on Dave Roberts' and John Schneider's game-day availabilities.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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker start with a look back on the Blue Jays' 6-2 win over the Dodgers in Game 4 to tie up the World Series, including Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s big home run off Shohei Ohtani and Shane Bieber's bounce-back. Then, they look ahead to Game 5, how the starters in Blake Snell and Trey Yesavage will adjust from their Game 1 outings, the Dodgers' lineup change and Chris Bassitt's role. Blue Jays Central analyst Caleb Joseph stops by (30:30) to share his expectations for Yesavage, what the Jays' bats can expect from Snell the second time around, how Will Smith's move up to the two-hole impacts the approach to Ohtani, and Bo Bichette getting back to full speed at the plate.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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker are joined by MLB Network analyst and two-time World Series champion Jake Peavy to chat about what he thinks the message would be in the Blue Jays clubhouse before Game 4 after a gut-wrenching Game 3 loss, Shane Bieber's gameplan at attacking Shohei Ohtani, hitting against high velo pitches, and why we're seeing two of the best catchers in the World Series. Then, Jeff and Kevin touch on Eric Lauer's extra innings dominance before bringing on Blue Jays' outfielder and Sportsnet MLB analyst Kevin Pillar stops by to discuss Ohtani's pitching, bench decisions from Game 3, how Mookie Betts would feel seeing Shohei getting intentionally walked at-bat after at-bat, and what could be at stake for Shane Bieber in his Game 4 start. 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 Blair and Kevin Barker look back on the Blue Jays' marathon Game 3 against the LA Dodgers, a 6-5 in the 18th inning. They reflect on the Jays' consequential decision to pitch to Shohei Ohtani in the seventh inning, John Schneider's pinch-run replacements, questionable umpire calls, Nathan Lukes' 12-inning at-bat against Clayton Kershaw with the bases loaded, and more of the Jays' missed opportunities. Then, they move on to Game 4, what to expect from the starters in Shane Bieber and Ohtani, and how the lineup changes in the potential absence of George Springer. Later, Blue Jays special assistant and 12-year MLB veteran Kevin Kiermaier (29:02) stops by to discuss the toll of an extra-innings postseason loss, how the Jays can bounce back in Game 4, and how they can attack Ohtani on the mound.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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker are joined by former MLB pitcher and co-host of 'VSiN By The Books' Jensen Lewis (1:03) to chat about the challenges for the Blue Jays playing in a late afternoon game in L.A. for the next three World Series games that includes shadows, the keys to attacking Tyler Glasnow and vice versa for pitching against the Jays' batters, Dodgers fans' dislike for George Springer and Max Scherzer, if the Houston Astros' hitting scandal still has an impact on today's players, why it's a 'must-win' for both sides, and why he expects to see Rōki Sasaki making his World Series debut out of the bullpen. Then, Blue Jays radio analyst Chris Leroux (29:45) stops by to discuss his expectations for Max Scherzer's turn in the Fall Classic, Chris Bassitt's usage, why he's hesitant to use Brendon Little, and Bo Bichette's return to the Game 3 lineup. 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 affiliates.

As the World Series heads to Los Angeles, Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker look ahead to Monday night's Game 3 and share their expectations for the game's starters in Max Scherzer and Tyler Glasnow before welcoming ESPN MLB insider Jeff Passan to the show (11:33). They discuss how Scherzer and George Springer are viewed in LA, whether Game 3 is a must-win for the Blue Jays, the unsung impacts of Will Smith and Max Muncy, and what the Orioles are getting with their new managerial hire, Craig Albernaz. Later, Dodgers broadcaster Eric Karros (28:45) shares a more in-depth preview of Glasnow's start, how the Jays' bats should approach Shohei Ohtani in Game 4, if there are still hard feelings for the LA faithful over Scherzer's time with the Dodgers, and the impact of the shadows at Dodger Stadium. Finally, Jeff and Kevin react to the Jays and Dodgers' Game 3 lineups. 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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker had the chance to chat with Blue Jays' pitching coach Pete Walker (1:13) from the World Series Media Day to talk about Trey Yesavage making his first Fall Classic start, Chris Bassitt's adjustment into a bullpen role during the ALCS and his projected workload against the L.A. Dodgers, and Jeff Hoffman's closing confidence. Then, MLB Network host Greg Amsinger (8:43) weighs in on how Game 1 is a must-win for the Blue Jays, if we'll see a complete game from a Dodgers' pitcher, and Vladdy's perception in America. Afterwards, Sportsnet's Shi Davidi stops by (22:53) to discuss Bo Bichette's deployment at 2B, who ends up facing Shohei Ohtani coming out of the bullpen, and Louis Varland's expected usage. To wrap up before Game 1, The Athletic's Jayson Stark jumps on (45:17) to give his thoughts on the impact of Bichette's long layoff, Blake Snell's strong competitive pitch arsenal, if the Dodgers have 'ruined' baseball, and who is the most important player for the Blue Jays outside of Guerrero Jr. 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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker react to the Blue Jays' Game 1 lineup, which includes Bo Bichette in the clean-up spot and at second base. They weigh in on the decision and look at the rest of the World Series roster before listening in on Ross Atkins' and Bichette's game-day availability. Later, TVA Sports' play-by-play announcer Denis Casavant (27:58) discusses the Jays' reception in Quebec considering the province's historical ties to the Dodgers, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s similarities and differences to his father and his expectations for Trey Yesavage in Game 1. Finally, Jeff and Kevin listen to John Schneider's pre-game availability.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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker are joined by the Commissioner of Major League Baseball Rob Manfred (0:35) to chat about the current state of the game on the field and for audiences across all mediums and the world, the international stage being highlighted for the Fall Classic, how MLB approaches the upcoming 2028 Summer Olympics in L.A., Rogers Centre renos and Toronto's prospects of hosting an MLB All-Star weekend, the rule changes over the years and ABS coming in 2026 and the chance of expansion in Canada. Then, '93 World Series MVP and National Baseball Hall of Famer Paul Molitor stops by (29:38) to discuss the difficulties of reaching the final series in a playing career, memories of Joe Carter's walk-off homer, home-field advantage playing a role, and his advice to Trey Yesavage and other young players.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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker react to the Blue Jays announcing Trey Yesavage as the Game 1 starter for the World Series and lay out their expectations for the 22-year-old. Then, Bo Bichette sits down with Jeff and Kevin (16:40) to discuss his recovery and how he'd approach possibly playing second base. Later, Dodgers President Stan Kasten (20:52) reflects on a second straight World Series trip, how the team has changed from last season, the rotations' postseason dominance, and the narrative that the Dodgers' spending is 'bad for baseball.' Finally, former Blue Jay pitcher and World Series winner Pat Hentgen (34:55) discusses the franchise's return to the Fall Classic, his advice for Yesavage, and his postseason memories from his playing days.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 affiliates.

MLB Network's Jon Morosi joins Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker (1:11) to discuss how the Blue Jays match up against the L.A. Dodgers, the differences in types of pitchers and hitters the Milwaukee Brewers have compared to the American League champions, John Schneider's bullpen usage, why Chris Bassitt should get more run in the World Series, and projecting Bo Bichette's deployment. Then, National Baseball Hall of Famer and former Blue Jay Frank Thomas stops by (29:41) to chat about winning MLB's Comeback of the Year and George Springer potentially winning the same award, living up to the expectations bestowed on a player like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., if home field advantage plays a factor in the Fall Classic, if Shohei Ohtani can pitch and hit throughout his MLB career and his memories of his time with the Blue Jays. 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 affiliates.

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker look ahead to Friday's Game 1 of the World Series and discuss the Blue Jays' keys against the Dodgers. They get into L.A.'s starting pitching edge and project how John Schneider will deploy the bullpen. Then, former MLB pitcher and cohost of Intentional Talk, Ryan Dempster, stops by (23:46) to discuss his World Series run with the 2013 Red Sox after finishing last in the division in the previous season, the mentality required to win a Fall Classic, and how the Jays' bats attack Blake Snell in Game 1. Finally, Jeff and Kevin discuss the pressure of the World Series vs. the League Championship Series and whether Game 1 is a must-win for the Jays.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 affiliates. 

Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker welcome back former MLB President and host of Nothing Personal, David Samson (1:05) to revisit the fallout of the Montreal Expos as the newest Netflix documentary "Who Killed the Montreal Expos" releases which included Jeff and David, before looking towards the financial implications for both teams entering the World Series, the front office's influence on the post-season run, why Mookie Betts could be an x-factor for the L.A. Dodgers, if the Blue Jays should be favourites in the Fall Classic and if Albert Pujols will be a great player turned manager. Then, Jeff and Kevin head to the Back-leg Line to hear your calls with reactions on the Jays' berth to the World Series! 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 affiliates.

The Blue Jays are going to the World Series for the first time in 32 years! Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker listen back on all the calls of George Springer's clutch, go-ahead home run in the seventh inning of Game 7, discuss the teams' winding path to this point, and look ahead at the decisions the team will have to make ahead of Friday's Game 1 against the L.A. Dodgers. Later, Blue Jays manager John Schneider joins the show (26:27) to reflect on the Game 7 victory, Springer's clutch gene, the veteran starters' impact out of the bullpen, Bo Bichette's status for the World Series, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s rise into superstardom.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 affiliates.

ESPN's MLB Insider Jeff Passan joins Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker (3:20) to chat about if the Los Angeles Dodgers care who they face in the World Series between the Seattle Mariners and Toronto Blue Jays, Vlad Guerrero Jr.'s incredible offensive performance throughout October, and if his view on John Schneider as a manager changed after his pitching decision in Game 5. Then, we hear from George Springer on his experience playing Game 7s and manager John Schneider. Finally, Jeff and Kevin share the keys for the Jays in the do-or-die stage at Rogers Centre.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 affiliates.

We've got a Game 7 in Toronto! Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker get set with former GM and MLB Network analyst Jim Duquette (4:30), who discusses the Jays' momentum heading into the do-or-die stage, how the bats approach George Kirby the second time around and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s dominant postseason. Then, Jeff and Kevin project how John Schneider will manage the bullpen with the season on the line, share expectations for Shane Bieber, and look at the two teams' lineups. Later, Jays Central analyst Madison Shipman stops by (27:45) to weigh in on Addison Barger's adjustment at the plate, the impact of George Springer's knee injury, the plan for Jeff Hoffman after a busy Game 6, the Mariners' mental mistakes, and the importance of a strong start. Finally, Jeff and Kevin share who they think will be the x-factor in Game 7.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 affiliates.