NBC Sports Bay Area's Jessica Kleinschmidt brings you comprehensive MLB coverage, to go along with her extensive baseball knowledge and rock-star personality. Don't miss the in-depth interviews, baseball analysis and unique discussions about the game that you can only get here. Check out all new episodes all year long!
Jessica Kleinschmidt, NBC Sports Bay Area
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Listeners of Balk Talk: NBC Sports Bay Area Baseball Podcast that love the show mention:The Balk Talk: NBC Sports Bay Area Baseball Podcast is a must-listen for any avid Giants fan like myself. This podcast delivers all the news, stories, and standings updates that I crave, along with a healthy dose of comedy. The dynamic between hosts Cole and Alex is fantastic, with Alex providing the factual information and Cole bringing the hopeful fan perspective that we can all relate to. As a Giants fan, I would highly recommend this podcast to anyone looking for in-depth coverage and entertaining discussions about the team.
One of the best aspects of The Balk Talk podcast is the perfect balance of optimism and realism that Cole and Alex bring to each episode. They provide honest takes on San Francisco Giants baseball, with Cole's unwavering belief that they will win the World Series contrasting against Alex's more realistic and accurate opinions. This dynamic creates engaging discussions that keep me hooked from start to finish.
Another great aspect of this podcast is the interviews they conduct with players and other guests. From Luis Matos to Marco Luciano, it's always fascinating to hear from future baseball stars and get insights into their thoughts and experiences. The hosts do an excellent job of asking thought-provoking questions and getting interesting anecdotes from their guests.
However, one potential downside of The Balk Talk podcast is that it can sometimes lean heavily towards homerism. While it's expected for hosts to be passionate about their favorite team, there are moments when it feels like they may overlook or downplay certain issues or shortcomings of the Giants. A more balanced approach would enhance the credibility of their analysis.
In conclusion, The Balk Talk: NBC Sports Bay Area Baseball Podcast is a must-listen for any Giants fan seeking comprehensive coverage, entertaining discussions, and insightful interviews about their favorite team. Despite some occasional homerism, Cole and Alex provide an engaging mix of optimism and realism that keeps fans entertained throughout each episode. Don't miss out on this fantastic podcast if you're a die-hard Giants fan.
On "Giants Talk," co-hosts Alex Pavlovic and Cole Kuiper break down how San Francisco outscored the powerful Cubs and win the series in Chicago. Ron Wotus then joins the show to discuss how things are looking in Triple-A Sacramento.1:30 – Justin Verlander's bad luck to start his time with the Giants4:00 – Another interesting series for Ryan Walker7:45 – Breaking down the extra innings game vs. Cubs12:00 – Giants have a sloppy defensive game on Monday14:45 – Kyle Harrison deals in his first game back19:30 – Injury updates25:00 – Ross Stripling retires27:00 – Previewing Giants vs. Twins37:00 – Ron Wotus interview
On "Giants Talk," co-hosts Alex Pavlovic and Cole Kuiper discuss Willy Adames finally getting his break out game as a Giant and how the team bounced back against the Colorado Rockies after a disappointing loss to open the series.2:15 – Kyle Harrison called up, Lou Trivino DFA'd5:00 – Giants lose series opener to Rockies but bounce back and win the next two games10:00 – Willy Adames finally has a breakout game Sunday12:00 – Giants need Matt Chapman, Willy Adames, Patrick Bailey and LaMonte Wade Jr. to find a rhythm13:45 – Waiting for Luis Matos to power up15:15 – Robbie Ray throws seven no hit innings16:30 – Tyler Fitzgerald out with cracked rib18:00 – Nick Ahmed hits open market20:00 – Donnie Ecker fired by Rangers24:00 – Update on Wade Meckler25:30 – Previewing Giants matchup vs. Cubs32:00 – Food recommendations in Chicago
On "Giants Talk," co-hosts Alex Pavlovic and Cole Kuiper discuss what has stood out from San Francisco's first month of the 2025 MLB season and what fans should watch out for in May.1:00 – Recapping the Giants series vs. Padres3:00 – How the series revealed some issues6:45 – Padres drawing huge crowds to the games9:00 – Who's the Giants MVP so far?12:00 – Biggest disappointment so far?18:00 – Jung Hoo Lee becoming “the guy” is one of the best things to happen to the franchise in a while22:30 – Ballpark vibes are back at Oracle Park wit the Giants playing fun baseball24:00 – Most interesting thing so far?27:00 – NL West check in29:30 – Storylines in May?35:00 – Mustache May40:00 – Mailbag Q's49:00 – Previewing Giants vs. Rockies
On “Giants Talk,” hosts Cole Kuiper and Alex Pavlovic break down San Francisco's series against the Texas Rangers and preview the potential challenges in an NL West showdown with the San Diego Padres. (1:02) – General feeling after Giants' walk-off win over Rangers(3:53) – Updates on the Giants' closer situation(5:10) – Reviewing SF's starting rotation against Rangers(9:00) – What to make of LaMonte Wade Jr.'s series(12:15) – Brandon Crawford Day at Oracle Park(20:00) - Mailbag Questions - Giants starting rotation(31:10 – Looking forward to Giants' short series vs Padres in San Diego(36:30) – Oracle Park's standout attendance
First-year general manager Zack Minasian joins "Giants Talk" to discuss what he finds most important when evaluating players, the continued development of San Francisco's pitchers and his impressions of Brandon Crawford's career in the Bay.1:00 – Breaking down the series vs. Brewers, Giants are still winning and playing encouraging baseball3:15 – What's going on with the closer spot?6:45 – Should the Giants consider Tyler Rogers as the closer?9:00 – Is this the season Logan Webb has “Logan Webbed” the most?12:00 – Should Jordan Hicks and Hayden Birdsong swap spots?16:15 – Is it time the Giants optioned Luis Matos?18:30 – Unexpectedly sloppy Brewers' defense, is Matt Chapman the best defensive player in baseball?23:00 – Mailbag Q's39:00 – Previewing Giants vs. Rangers46:00 – Zack Minasian Interview
On "Giants Talk," co-hosts Alex Pavlovic and Cole Kuiper discuss how Justin Verlander was in line for his first Giants win before the Los Angeles Angels walked off San Francisco in the bottom of the ninth, break down Landen Roupp's impressive outing on Saturday and answer some mailbag questions from fans.1:00 – Giants fall to Angels, Ryan Walker's first blown save but still go 5-5 on road trip5:00 – Competition in the National League6:15 – Takeaways from the road trip21:30 – Discussing the backup catcher situation29:00 – Mailbag Q's43:00 – Previewing the matchup vs. Brewers
On “Giants Talk,” hosts Cole Kuiper and Alex Pavlovic break down San Francisco's ‘encouraging' series split in Philadelphia, and look ahead to the series against the Los Angeles Angels. (1:50) – Reviewing the Giants' series split in Philadelphia(3:30) – Breaking down Tyler Fitzgerald's series vs Philly(6:58) – Looking at Verlander's outing in Giants' loss to Phillies on Tuesday(12:58) – Breaking down Jordan Hicks' outing vs Phillies(18:52) – Jung Hoo Lee's argument with Phil Cuzzi(27:38) – Updates Giants' top prospects(30:40) - Mailbag Questions(36:30) - Previewing Giants vs Angels
On "Giants Talk," co-hosts Alex Pavlovic and Cole Kuiper discuss how center fielder Jung Hoo Lee has been San Francisco's best all-around player so far this season, why the team has taken such joy in cheering him on and then answer a few fan mailbag questions.1:00 – Giants looked great against the Yankees, Phillies are going to be a real test4:30 – Jung Hoo Lee playing great10:15 – Adjustments in the lineup12:15 – Jordan Hicks has rough outing15:15 – Robbie Ray with the 4-inning win in the rain17:00 – All the different games and situations Jon Miller has seen throughout his career19:00 – On people not liking Carlos Rodon on social media25:00 – Looking around the NL West33:00 – Mailbag Q's39:30 – Previewing Giants vs. Phillies
Buster Posey joins "Giants Talk" to discuss San Francisco's great start to the year, how he believes Logan Webb and Heliot Ramos have evolved this season and why the team hasn't made any roster moves yet.1:00 – Breaking down series against the Reds3:00 – Level of concern for Camilo Doval8:15 – Concerned with Justin Verlander already?13:00 – Tyler Fitzgerald struggling on offense and defense16:00 – Concerns with the lineup20:00 – All the walk offs the Giants have had already24:00 – Hayden Birdsong reminding Alex of Tim Lincecum25:45 – Landen Roupp wasted outing by Giants' offense27:00 – Tyler Rogers looking good this season28:45 – Reaction to Giants' new City Connect Jerseys36:30 – Previewing Giants vs. Yankees 44:00 – Buster Posey Interview
On "Giants Talk," co-hosts Alex Pavlovic and Cole Kuiper discuss San Francisco's 8-1 start to the season, how the team is overcoming adversity to find different ways to win and answer a few mailbag questions from fans.:45 – Giants continue their hot start3:30 – Showing shades of the 2021 team6:00 – Willy Adames comes through in the clutch8:00 – Randy Rodriguez impressing12:00 – Discussing the Giants' use of Hayden Birdsong14:15 – Victor Robles' catch and injury16:00 – Jung Hoo Lee doing it all20:00 – Vibes with fans at home opener were great25:00 – Giants don't have rockstars like they did with their World Series' teams29:00 – Remembering the lineup from last time they were in first place in 202231:00 – Mailbag Q's42:00 – Previewing Giants vs. Reds Pt. 2
On "Giants Talk," co-hosts Alex Pavlovic and Cole Kuiper discuss San Francisco's hot start to the season after going 5-1 on the opening road trip, why Heliot Ramos is looking like a building block for the future. and how the team is stacking up against the rest of the NL West.:50 – Giants get series sweep over the Houston Astros, Heliot Ramos looking fantastic to start the season7:00 – Jordan Hicks looked great against the Astros12:15 – Wilmer Flores tearing it up15:30 – Landen Roupp confident in this team19:00 – It's still a scary time in the NL West23:00 – Early concerns about the team?33:30 – News from around the MLB39:30 – Previewing the home opener and matchup against the Seattle Mariners
On "Giants Talk," co-hosts Alex Pavlovic and Cole Kuiper break down how San Francisco clinched their first series win of 2025 MLB season against the Cincinnati Reds behind the brilliant play of Matt Chapman and discuss how they feel about the bullpen through three games.1:00 – On Alex's new book4:00 – Breaking down Justin Verlander and Robbie Ray's outings8:00 – How do we feel about the Giants' bullpen through three games?9:45 –Giants' offense, Matt Chapman's defense looking good against the Reds11:45 – Heliot Ramos looking confident13:30 – Tyler Fitzgerald starting off the season hesitant16:30 – Sacramento Rivercats roster is stacked21:00 – Mailbag Q's33:30 – Previewing Giants at Astros
On "Giants Talk," co-hosts Alex Pavlovic and Cole Kuiper break down the Giants' Opening Day comeback win over the Cincinnati Reds, discuss whether fans should be worried about Logan Webb's early struggles, and reveal their bold predictions for the 2025 season.1:00 – Updates from Alex's trip to Cincinnati2:30 – Positives from opening day7:00 – Which homer to did Alex enjoy more?10:00 – Breaking down Jung Hoo Lee's opening day performance15:45 – Worried about Logan Webb's opening day?19:45 – Giants closer torture time21:00 – Mailbag Q: What does Alex think of the new press box in Cincinnati?25:45 – Christian Koss filling the last roster spot28:00 – City connect jerseys leaked30:00 – Fan Bold Predictions35:30 – Alex and Cole's Bold Predictions45:00 – Actual expectations and predictions
Bob Melvin joins "Giants Talk" to discuss the ways San Francisco can compete with the powerhouses in their division, how ace Logan Webb has grown as a leader and why Willy Adames is such a great roster fit.:45 – Landon Roupp named final starter5:00 – What does this mean for Hayden Birdsong's development?8:00 – Spencer Bivens makes the bullpen10:00 – Other opening day moves12:15 – David Villar designated for assignment16:30 – Looking ahead to the Giants series vs. Reds22:00 - Bob Melvin Interview
Logan Webb and Matt Chapman join "Giants Talk" from spring training to San Francisco's culture shift under Buster Posey, how they're building chemistry amongst teammates and previewing the challenges they'll face in the packed NL West during the 2025 MLB season.2:45 – Kyle Harrison optioned6:00 – Rotation speculation7:00 – Why Jordan Hicks needs to start the season in the rotation9:00 – Alex and Cole stunned by Sean Hjelle being optioned11:00 – Jerar Encarnacion fractures wrist14:30 – Jung Hoo Lee back in Sunday night's game15:15 – Sam Huff is the backup catcher18:30 – Final spring training games no longer have any meaning26:00 - Logan Webb & Matt Chapman interview
Ryan Walker joins "Giants Talk" from spring training to discuss his breakout as San Francisco's closer last season, how he can carry over his success into 2025 and when he knew he could make it in the big leagues.1:00 – Jung Hoo Lee update7:30 – Willy Adames winning over fans10:00 – Joel Peguero making an impression at spring training11:45 – Details on media day, new promotions, changes19:30 – New concessions & giveaways Alex is most excited for this season25:00 – Mailbag Q's41:00 – Ryan Walker interview
Willy Adames joins "Giants Talk" from spring training to discuss his decision to come to San Francisco, getting to play alongside Matt Chapman and why he's excited to call Oracle Park his home stadium.2:30 – Jung Hoo Lee back tightness, Bryce Eldridge wrist inflammation5:15 – Sabin Ceballos impressing7:30 – Luis Matos looking fantastic9:00 – Landon Roupp forcing the issue for the fifth starter spot12:00 – Hayden Birdsong and Kyle Harrison most recent starts breakdown18:00 – Sam Huff is probably going to be the backup catcher, Jake Lamb playing well22:00 – Mailbag Q's38:00 – Willy Adames Interview
J.P. Martinez joins "Giants Talk" from spring training to discuss his journey to becoming San Francisco's pitching coach, how he plans to make an immediate impact with the team and what type of coach he plans to be.1:00 – How's the team looking in spring training games so far?5:00 – Notable happenings from spring training6:30 – What are realistic expectations for Justin Verlander?9:30 – Spring training injury updates11:00 – Former Giants at spring training18:00 – Mailbag Q's28:00 - J.P. Martinez Interview
Kyle Harrison joins "Giants Talk" from spring training to discuss the lessons he learned from his rookie season, competing for the fifth starter spot and what he's looking to add to his pitching repertoire in 2025.1:00 – Happenings at Giants spring training, lineups are forming5:30 – What might the opening day lineup look like?7:00 – Breaking down the Giants' depth15:30 – Mailbag Q's30:00 - Kyle Harrison interview
Bryce Eldridge joins "Giants Talk" from spring training to discuss his powerful swing, why he finds inspiration from players like Yordan Álvarez and how his development at first base is progressing.Alex + Cole:1:00 – Break down of spring training news, Bryce Eldridge cut5:10 – Other players leaving camp, Mason Black optioned6:20 – Takeaways from who left camp7:10 – Will Kyle Harrison be the 5th starter?8:45 – Landon Roupp impressing10:00 – Hoping Kyle Harrison can get his stuff back11:40 – Guys who went off in spring training and then did nothing, and what they're up to now22:15 – Mailbag Q'sBryce Eldridge:29:40 – Why getting to spring training early was important to him30:10 – Story on getting a selfie with Verlander when he was a kid, what it's like having him as a teammate now31:20 – Breaking down his short swing33:00 – Players he looks up to: Yordon Alveraz33:35 – On his development at first base34:10 – How meeting Verlander and Buster was his “welcome to the league” moment34:35 – What it was like working with Will Clark35:20 – Who he's looking forward to working with35:45 – Does he hope to pitch at some point in his career?36:45 – What he likes to do in his personal time
Patrick Bailey joins "Giants Talk" from spring training to discuss winning a Gold Glove Award, what lessons he's learned from his past two seasons and how Buster Posey has influenced San Francisco's clubhouse.Cole + Alex::45 – How things are looking at spring training, keep an eye on Jerar Encarnación5:30 – Fifth starter power rankings9:15 – Post 2026 lockout?13:15 – Oracle Park's Coke bottle getting a facelift?14:45 – Mailbag Q's32:00 – Why Patrick Bailey is so importantPatrick Bailey:34:15 – Reaction to winning the Gold Glove35:05 – What his talks with Buster Posey are like36:00 – What Jordan Hicks needs to do to take the next step36:50 – What the key for Kyle Harrison is this season38:05 – What he wants to see from Hayden Birdsong this season38:45 – On Landon Roupp39:50 – Differences between his 2024 and 2023 seasons41:40 – On his pitch framing42:15 – On catching for Justin Verlander
On "Giants Talk," co-hosts Alex Pavlovic and Cole Kuiper are joined by Duane Kuiper to break down the lofty expectations for top prospect Bryce Eldridge, discuss how Jordan Hicks has looked in spring training and then answer a few fan mailbag questions.Alex + Cole:1:45 – Tom Murphy update3:35 – Where can Grant McCray fit in?: backup center fielder5:45 –Jordan Hicks looking good in spring training: locked into 4 spot8:45 – Mailbag Q's: Will we see Christian Koss this year?10:45 – What's up with Keaton Winn?13:00 – Is Lee still eligible for rookie of the year?13:45 – Can Eldridge move to the outfield?15:00 – Should Marco Luciano try first base or left field? Along with DH?16:45 – How long will Eldridge last in AA?Duane Kuiper: 19:45 – On being at spring training21:25 – On the vibes being different this year27:15 – On Bryce Eldridge's home run at spring training28:15 – Story on getting together with Aaron Judge30:00 – Why Eldridge needs more time in the minors: “develop him, let him get his feet on the ground”32:30 – Which young guys are standing out, strength of the bullpen34:45 – Thoughts on the ABS system15:10 – On meeting Willy Adames and Justin Verlander
Justin Verlander joins "Giants Talk" during San Francisco's spring training and explains his reasoning behind joining Buster Posey and the Giants in free agency.1:06 - San Francisco's hot start to Spring Training4:55 - Can Bryce Eldridge make Giants' Opening Day roster?11:05 - Assessing Giants' pitching so far during Spring Training12:40 - Marco Luciano's spring training17:20 - Logan Webb named Giants Opening Day starting pitcher for fourth consecutive season18:52 - Giants injury updates21:50 - Around the MLB26:53 - Breaking down Justin Verlander's historic career31:20 - Justin Verlander exclusive interview with Laura Britt and Alex Pavlovic
Tyler Fitzgerald joins "Giants Talk" from spring training to discuss his transition to second base, Buster Posey's influence on the team and his first impressions of Bryce Eldridge.1:15 – Batting Practice at spring training7:15 – How does Bryce Eldridge look in BP?9:25 – LaMonte Wade Jr. taking reps in outfield at spring training10:30 – On Buster Posey speaking to the team, establishing an identity16:50 – Discussion on Tom Murphy19:15 – Who do the Giants have space for?24:00 – Mailbag Q's36:30 - Tyler Fitzgerald exclusive interview with Alex Pavlovic and Laura Britt
On "Giants Talk," co-hosts Alex Pavlovic and Cole Kuiper discuss where LaMonte Wade Jr. and Jung Hoo Lee might hit in San Francisco's lineup, why the team remains confident in Camilo Doval despite his struggles last season and then answer a few fan mailbag questions.1:05 – Jung Hoo Lee possibly hitting third2:00 – LaMonte Wade Jr. leading off makes sense5:00 – Does the Giants' lineup have enough depth?5:55 – Wade Jr. won't be playing in the outfield7:15 – Expectations of Marco Luciano in spring training12:30 – Yusmeiro Petit spending time with Camilo Doval in spring training16:20 – Tom Murphy having back issues20:15 – Farhan Zaidi to LA24:45 – Jakob Junis signs with Cleveland25:00 – Mailbag Q's
On "Giants Talk," co-hosts Alex Pavlovic and Cole Kuiper discuss the start of spring training, why San Francisco's newest pitcher Justin Verlander is wearing No. 35 and other news from around the league.1:10 – Alex's first meals in Arizona2:10 – Overall feeling of spring training under Buster Posey4:30 – What Alex has learned at spring training after day one9:40 – What is the bullpen looking like? 12:10 – Catching situation update15:20 – Figuring out the DH position20:20 – Justin Verlander wearing #3523:00 – Catching up with Wade Meckler26:00 – Around the league33:45 – Mailbag Q's
On "Giants Talk," co-hosts Alex Pavlovic and Cole Kuiper discuss the three players fans should look out for this season, what to expect at spring training under new president of baseball operations Buster Posey and answer fan mailbag questions.1:10 – Non-roster invitees list5:10 – Minor moves from around the league8:45 – Three breakout possibilities for 202523:00 – What's the vibe under Buster Posey at spring training?25:45 – Mailbag Q's28:50 – Will the Giants use contract deferrals like the Dodgers in the future?30:40 – What's the reason for Taylor Rogers trade and what's the plan for left-handed relievers?32:25 – Who's Bryce Eldridge working on his defense with?34:05 – What's the plan with Brett Wisely?35:30 – What does a good year for Jung Hoo Lee look like statistically?38: 30 – Would Anthony Rizzo be a good short-term fit?
On "Giants Talk," co-hosts Alex Pavlovic and Cole Kuiper discuss the Taylor Rogers trade, what San Francisco's financial flexibility going into the season means and why the team has invited familiar faces to spring training as guest instructors.1:10 – Recent sports news2:40 – Ha-Seong Kim signs with the Rays4:15 – Taylor Rogers traded to Reds6:20 – On the Giants being under the tax line, having financial flexibility going into the season9:00 – Giants “feel pretty set” with roster as it stands11:10 – Win projections for this season15:25 – How cool it was for the Rogers brothers to get to play together18:10 – Jack Flaherty signs with Tigers19:30 – Giants invite familiar faces to spring training as guest instructors25:30 – Fan ideas for Giants' promotions this season
On "Giants Talk," Alex Pavlovic and Cole Kuiper break down San Francisco's 2025 roster, discuss Tyler Fitzgerald's ranking on prospect lists and answer a few fan mailbag questions.1:00 – Lineup breakdown, Giants are sneaky deep but still feel a bat short, especially when injuries pop up3:45 – On Tyler Fitzgerald making top 10 lists5:15 – Adames ranking feeling low6:15 – What do you add to the infield?7:05 – Giants seem content with Murphy as #2 catcher8:30 – On hoping Patrick Bailey will be able stay consistent through the second half of the season10:15 – What do you add to the outfield?11:15 – Adding Jake Lamb to minor league deal15:40 – Bryce Eldridge's ranking on top 100 prospects lists 22:00 – Discussing former first round picks23:10 – Teams that had the most representation on prospect lists24:45 – Prospects to look out for26:30 – Mailbag Q's
Cole Kuiper and Alex Pavlovic preview the Giants' pitching rotation ahead of Spring Training and how Justin Verlander will fit in with Logan Webb and Robbie Ray. Also, Cole and Alex discuss whether the Giants still plan on making other roster moves before heading to Arizona and if the Dodgers offseason could be a catalyst for change in the next CBA.1:00 Roki Sasaki to Dodgers could be a ‘tipping point' for outrage around MLB14:00 Could this offseason be the catalyst for change in the next CBA?22:00 Josuar de Jesus Gonzalez signs with Giants but still a few years away from playing in San Francisco25:00 What to expect from the Giants rotation in 202538:00 Are Giants done with adding to roster heading into Spring Training?
On "Giants Talk," co-hosts Alex Pavlovic and Cole Kuiper break down the news San Francisco is out of the running for Japanese pitcher Rōki Sasaki, discuss whether Justin Verlander should wear No. 35 after Brandon Crawford's recent retirement and answer a couple fan mailbag questions.:50 – Giants out on Rōki Sasaki8:00 – Other international prospects: Josuar De Jesus Gonzales12:45 – On Justin Verlander signing with the Giants and mentoring the young guys16:20 – On Verlander's health and why he feels he's in a better place18:20 – On Verlander possibly wearing No. 35 and talking to Brandon Crawford about it27:00 – Verlander accidentally has wife Kate Upton's name on his Zoom because she used it last31:30 – Giants DFA Blake Sabol35:30 - Ehire Adrianza retires37:30 – Malibag Q's
On this emergency episode of "Giants Talk," Alex Pavlovic and George Kontos break down San Francisco's reported one-year, $15 million contract with veteran ace Justin Verlander, why the deal made sense for president of baseball operations Buster Posey and who should be the fifth starting pitcher.Intro:1:10 – Verlander always made sense to Alex as a one year deal3:00 – Continues Buster's trend trying to make the team “interesting”4:10 – Breaking down why he got $15 millionKontos:6:40 – Kontos on the signing of Verlander8:00 – Has Kontos met Verlander?8:40 – Why he made sense for the Giants right now11:10 – On his fastball velocity and if he'll need to adjust how he pitches13:40 – Who's Kontos' favorite for the fifth starting pitching spot?15:50 – Kontos on Willy Adames16:50 – If Kontos could add one more player to the roster, who would it be?18:00 – What it was like playing against Verlander in Game 1 in 2012
On this episode of "Giants Talk," Alex Pavlovic and Laura Britt discuss why MLB ace Corbin Burnes signing with the Arizona Diamondbacks is so disappointing, how San Francisco is one of the remaining teams still in the mix for Japanese pitcher Rōki Sasaki and other ways the team can upgrade its offense for the 2025 MLB season.1:10 – Why Corbin Burnes signing with the Diamondbacks is so disappointing4:35 – Options now that Burnes has signed9:50 – How confident are you in Robbie Ray this season?12:50 – Giants should focus on upgrading the offense now, would Pete Alonso be a good fit?16:45 – Ha-Seong Kim and Alex Bregman as other solid options, Tyler Fitzgerald's versatility21:50 – Giants still in the mix for Rōki Sasaki28:35 – Mailbag Q's
Brothers Zack and Perry Minasian join Alex Pavlovic on "Giants Talk" to discuss how their upbringing prepared them for their roles as general managers of San Francisco and the Los Angeles Angels, respectively, who's the most competitive brother and what it's like making trades together. Intro::45 – Recent signings: first basemen off the board / Paul Goldschmidt7:15 – Giants happy with LaMonte Wade Jr at first but open to upgrading10:15 – Pete Alonso discussion13:35 – Potential free agent signings: Connor Joe, Mark Canha, Josh Bell, Justin Turner18:40 – Walker Buehler, Joc Pederson, Sean Manaea signed22:20 – Difference between if the Giants get Corbin Burnes or not: “if you're a Giants fan you should probably feel better than you did 2 weeks ago”25:30 – Farhan Zaidi's interview, potential landing spots29:00 – On getting recommendations for setting lineups32:30 – Preview of Minasian brothers' interview, background on their family Zack & Perry Minasian:36:00 - On playing board games as kids37:10 - Which brother is more competitive?38:00 - On their brother that doesn't work in baseball38:45 - What prepared them for these roles?39:30 - How often do they talk?40:20 - If Perry thought Zack had a chance at the GM position42:00 - What trading together is like43:40 - Is Perry watching the Giants more now?
Bob Melvin joins Alex Pavlovic on "Giants Talk" to discuss how he envisions the Giants' lineup, his expectations for Ryan Walker and Camilo Doval next season, and why he believes Kyle Harrison is "hungrier." Plus, Cole Kuiper and Alex break down the Giants' free-agent pursuit of Corbin Burnes and if they have a shot at 23-year-old Japanese superstar pitcher Rōki Sasaki.Intro::40 – Will the Giants get Corbin Burnes?3:55 – Reporting on if Burnes prefers a short-term deal and why Giants would prefer a longer-term deal6:00 – Cole is over one-and-done deals but Alex likes them8:15 – Options if the Giants don't sign Burnes?11:50 – Why Giants are a good spot for Rōki Sasaki?16:00 – Kyle Tucker signs, what Giants would have had to give up to get himBob Melvin:21:30 - How it's been working with Buster Posey22:45 - On his initial conversation with Posey23:50 - Being empowered to run his department by Posey24:45 - How he envisions the Giants' lineup26:00 - On being more accountable27:15 - Piecing together the Giants' lineup28:45 - Expectations for Ryan Walker and Camilo Doval30:45 - Upside of pitching group32:00 - Why Kyle Harrison is "hungrier"33:00 - Update on Marco Luciano34:00 - Melvins' message getting ready for camp35:00 - What Giants will play like in 2025
Willy Adames joins Alex Pavlovic on "Giants Talk" to discuss why he bought into Buster Posey and the Giants' vision for his future, his excitement to play alongside Matt Chapman and why he chose to wear #2. Intro::55 - Willy Adames press conference break down3:05 - How the Adames deal went down3:50 - Kyle Tucker available6:00 - First base and DH options7:05 - Corbin Burnes speculation Willy Adames:8:40 - Why he bought into Buster Posey and the Giants' vision9:40 - On if the Giants made assurances that they will compete10:20 - On the city of San Francisco11:10 - How he celebrated after signing his contract11:55 - If he's spoked to Logan Webb or any other teammates yet12:55 - On being a "connecter" teammate13:45 - On hitting at Oracle14:40 - His excitement for playing alongside Matt Chapman15:10 - Why he chose to wear #2
Buster Posey joins Alex Pavlovic on "Giants Talk" from the MLB Winter Meetings to discuss the Willy Adames signing, why the Giants were out on Juan Soto's free agency and gives his thoughts on Rōki Sasaki.Intro:1:00 – Roki Sasaki speculation3:45 – Corbin Burnes speculationBuster Posey:6:20 - Buster Posey on his experience so far at the MLB Winter Meetings7:00 – When in the process Willy Adames became the guy for the Giants7:45 – On speaking with Logan Webb and Adames as they build the roster8:30 – Why they were out on Juan Soto9:30 – On the pitching market10:20 – On if they will meet with Rōki Sasaki11:50 – On connecting back to the World Series years and players13:15 – How does he anticipate using his former teammates?14:45 – On understanding the importance of the team's history and players15:40 – Best and worst part of the new job
Cole Kuiper and Alex Pavlovic break down the league's reaction to the Giants' reported Willy Adames agreement, how it has brought clarity to San Francisco's infield, and discuss the latest updates on Jung Hoo Lee, Jordan Hicks and Camilo Doval.1:00 – Reactions to reported Willy Adames signing6:30 – Plan to introduce Adames this week7:00 – Clarity on the in-field lineup8:30 – Updates on Jung Hoo Lee, Camilo Doval, and Jordan Hicks21:00 – Michael Conforto signs with the Dodgers23:30 – Juan Soto signs record contract with the Mets30:10 – Alex Cobb signs with the Tigers33:30 – MLB Winter Meetings auction
Cole Kuiper and Alex Pavlovic break down the Giants' reported seven-year, $182 million contract with star shortstop Willy Adames and what this means for the rest of San Francisco's offseason plans.:45 – Giants reportedly agree to record contract with Willy Adames4:30 – Details on contract6:20 – Breaking down Buster Posey's first deal, why getting it done before Juan Soto signs was important9:00 – Any red flags about Adames?12:00 – How good can Giants' infield be?17:00 – Are the Giants changing their perception with this deal?19:00 – What do the rest of the Winter Meetings look like for the Giants?23:00 – Do the Giants now have a “star player?”27:00 – Buster establishing the Giants' identity
Cole Kuiper and Alex Pavlovic break down Brandon Crawford's legacy in San Francisco after he announced his retirement, what Blake Snell signing with the Dodgers means and what Buster Posey should look to accomplish at the 2024 MLB Winter Meetings.:45 – Discussing Brandon Crawford's retirement and legacy with the Giants7:15 – Alex and Cole's favorite Crawford moment11:00 – Blake Snell signs with the Dodgers18:30 – On the Dodgers' deferred contracts, should more teams spend?24:30 – What does Snell to LA mean for the Giants pursuit of a starting pitcher?27:45 – Other recent MLB signings30:45 – Rob Manfred and the “golden at-bat” rule35:15 – What should Buster Posey look to accomplish at the Winter Meetings?
Cole Kuiper and Alex Pavlovic are joined by Duane Kuiper to discuss the Giants' possible outfield lineup next season, how the team can balance free agency with playing time for young players, and if Madison Bumgarner could return to San Francisco as an advisor.1:00 – What Giants' outfield might look like for 2025 season5:45 – Free agency vs. giving young players opportunities8:00 – On having a different left-fielder every year since Barry Bonds10:00 – Alyssa Nakken leaves15:00 – Bobby Evans rejoins the team along with Jeff Berry20:40 – Contracts tendered for LaMonte Wade Jr., Camilo Doval and Tyler Rogers as Austin Warren re-signs22:00 – Awards season review23:30 – Carson Ragsdale and Carson Seymour are added to the 40-man roster24:30 – Madison Bumgarner coming back to the Giants as an advisor?Duane Kuiper:27:15 – Duane Kuiper on watching a World Series game with Mike Krukow29:45 – On Buster Posey taking over as President of Baseball Operations35:20 – Which positions the Giants need to fill this offseason39:00 – On who he expects to play in the outfield next season41:50 – Going on the Giants Hawaii trip
New San Francisco Giants general manager Zack Minasian sits down with Alex Pavlovic to discuss the team's identity and why his lifetime around baseball makes him a good fit for the position. Cole Kuiper and Alex also break down Randy Winn's new role with the team and answer fan's mailbag questions.Intro:1:00 - Randy Winn named Vice President of Player Development7:00 - Austin Slater signs with the Chicago White Sox9:00 - Which Giants will be back after the non-tender deadline?12:15 - Mailbag Q'sZack Minasian:22:10 - On becoming a new dad and GM23:20 - What an interview with Buster Posey is like24:15 - If the thought he had a chance at the job after Posey's press conference25:30 - On scouting Posey when he was a player27:00 - On the moment he got the GM job27:45 - What moves he feels stand out in his career29:00 - Why pitching and defense need to be the Giants' identity moving forward31:00 - On confidence in Giants' current pitching,32:45 - Tyler Fitzgerald maybe moving to 2nd and if they need to upgrade shortstop33:30 - Breaking down the outfield situation36:00 - On Luis Matos and Marco Luciano's development, expectations for next season38:50 - On Randy Winn becoming VP of player development, how they plan on approaching player development41:45 - His background growing up in MLB clubhouses, on the validation from getting the GM job44:30 - Dynamic between him and his brother Perry, who's GM of the Angels48:20 - On Tommy Lasorda being his godfather
Cole Kuiper and Alex Pavlovic discuss the Giants' possible infield lineup next season, including if free-agent shortstop Ha-Seong Kim could make his way to San Francisco this offseason, along with other possible options this offseason 1:00 – Explaining what the GM meetings are for2:50 – Uncertainty for the Giants' offseason9:20 – Why so many former Giants are working together elsewhere12:50 – Juan Soto watch begins15:00 – Giants' infielders breakdown17:20 – Could Ha-Seong Kim sign with the Giants?22:00 – Could Willy Adames sign with the Giants?26:30 – Can Bryce Eldridge continue his “meteoric” rise?31:35 – What does the future look like for Tyler Fitzgerald & Casey Schmitt?34:00 – Around the MLB
Cole Kuiper and Alex Pavlovic break down why the Giants promoted Zack Minasian to be their general manager, share their reaction to Patrick Bailey and Matt Chapman winning NL Gold Gloves, and discuss if the bullpen is set after several relievers had breakout 2024 seasons. :45 – Why the Giants hired Zack Minasian as GM10:00 – Comings and goings in San Francisco25:50 – Bailey and Chapman win Gold Gloves27:45 – On the Dodgers' celebration30:15 – Biggest winners from the Dodgers' World Series win35:30 – Will Soto be back with the Yankees?37:45 – Breaking down the bullpen
Cole Kuiper and Alex Pavlovic break down the Giants' starting pitching options this offseason, if they believe Blake Snell will be back with the team and discuss the World Series matchup between the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Yankees. 1:00 – Takeaways from the World Series matchup11:00 - Do the Giants need to just spend the money this offseason?14:15 – Comparing the Giants use of bullpen games to the Dodgers this postseason19:00 – On starting pitching and how they can improve next season24:00 – Will Blake Snell be back?28:30 – Pitching free agent options34:40 – Where do the Giants stand with their young pitchers, are they ready?36:00 – Will Jordan Hicks remain a starter?37:45 – Predicting the Giants' 2025 starting rotation40:40 – Mailbag Q's
Cole Kuiper and Alex Pavlovic break down how the Giants might handle arbitration-eligible players, this year's World Series matchup, and what their future roster could look like. Cole and Alex also answer fan questions about the Giants' offseason. :45 - J.P. Martinez promoted to be Giants' new pitching coach6:15 - Unofficial embargo on news during the World Series7:30 - How will Giants handle arbitration-eligible players Camilo Doval, Tyler Rogers, LaMonte Wade, Jr. and Mike Yastrzemski?21:00 - Breaking down the World Series matchup25:30 - Discussing the players in the World Series the Giants missed out on30:30 - What will the Giants' future roster look like in a few years? And can the Giants sign Juan Soto this offseason?
Cole Kuiper and Alex Pavlovic break down what new president of baseball operations Buster Posey will seek in potential GM candidates and answer fan questions about the Giants' offseason. Cole and Alex also discuss the MLB playoffs and make their World Series predictions.1:00 Breaking down NLCS, ALCS matchups15:00 World Series predictions16:30 Potential Giants GM candidates29:30 Are the Giants done with 'heavy lifting' after Matt Chapman deal?40:00 What does future look like for Marco Luciano, Tyler Fitzgerald, Brett Wisely?
Alex Pavlovic and Cole Kuiper look back at the 2024 season and analyze the Giants' biggest surprises, disappointments and front-office mistakes that resulted in an 80-82 record. They also discuss new president of baseball operations Buster Posey's potential impact on top prospects such as Bryce Eldridge and Marco Luciano.3:00 Biggest surprises of 2024 season7:00 Biggest disappointment13:00 Breakthrough performance24:00 Biggest front-office mistake
Alex Pavlovic and Cole Kuiper assess Farhan Zaidi's tenure and look forward to how Buster Posey's leadership style will translate to his new role. Also, Alex catches up with Posey and Giants chairman Greg Johnson to discuss the search for San Francisco's next general manager and how Buster's perspective as a player will benefit him in his new job.8:00 Assessing Farhan's tenure26:00 Examing Posey's leadership style33:00 Buster Posey shares 'excitement' of new role37:45 Posey on GM search41:30 Greg Johnson on Posey's readiness for new role
Alex Pavlovic and George Kontos discuss what led to the Giants' decision to part ways with Farhan Zaidi, the surprising announcement of Buster Posey as his replacement, and what changes should be made for San Francisco to regain a winning culture.1:10 Posey named Giants' president of baseball operations3:00 How Posey can bring winning culture back to San Francisco10:05 Can Posey be a successful player recruiter?12:45 What led to Giants' decision to part ways with Zaidi
Alex Pavlovic and Cole Kuiper analyze what we should take away from Giants president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi's discussion with the media this week in Arizona. Also, Alex and Cole examine the Giants' recent positive vibes, Grant McCray's concerning strikeout rate and how Bryce Eldridge's rise could impact the team's free agency approach.1:00 Giants playing well now that pressure is off7:30 Grant McCray's concerning strikeout rate12:30 Takeaways from Farhan Zaidi's discussion with media20:00 How Bryce Eldridge could impact Giants free agency approach32:00 Previewing the Giants-Cardinals seriesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.