The JD Bunkis Podcast

JD tempers his excitement around the Blue Jays following back-to-back dominant victories over the Rockies in Colorado, and breaks down the latest in the AL East with the Red Sox and Yankees continuing to move in different directions (00:00). 15-year MLB pitcher, Adam Ottavino, joins the show to chat about his career, changes in technology in baseball over the years, and the importance of comradery on a baseball team, before diving into the Yankees' struggles, coming back from Tommy John surgery, how it relates to new Blue Jay Shane Bieber, and his experiences playing with current Blue Jays Chris Bassitt, Max Scherzer, and George Springer (6:34). Later, JD expresses that he's ready for football season, touching on the premiere of the Bills' season of Hard Knocks, as well as some training camp news (43:46).The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

JD starts the week with thoughts on the Blue Jays' dominant victory over the Rockies after losing the previous series to the Royals, and the Yankees' struggles as they attempt to make up ground on Toronto, before getting into the recent heroics of Bo Bichette (00:00). Jim Bowden, MLB insider and former GM, joins the show to break down the Blue Jays' moves at the trade deadline, notably the Shane Bieber acquisition from the Guardians, how the Jays should approach the rotation with the emergence of Eric Lauer, the additions to the bullpen, the question of whether or not Bichette will re-sign in Toronto, and the front office's strategy to continue improving the farm system (7:51). Later, JD touches on the Maple Leafs settling with Nick Robertson on a one-year contract ahead of his arbitration hearing, and where the Leafs' bottom-six is headed next season (37:11).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 affiliates.

JD shares his thoughts on the Blue Jays activity at the MLB Trade Deadline, and reflects on the players moved out and acquired by Toronto during a busy day in baseball (00:00). Then, Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith joins the show to break down yesterday's excitement, the Blue Jays' strategy at the deadline, other options that may have been on the table for Toronto, before diving into the specifics of the team's newest reliever Louis Varland and some of the other bigger transactions around the league (15:58). Later, JD reflects on the deadline and questions whether or not the Blue Jays truly did enough, and what could've been more exciting (48:04). 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 affiliates.

JD is joined on MLB Trade Deadline day by Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, to discuss the importance of the Blue Jays' win over the Orioles as they salvage the series, and the expectations of the Jays front office to acquire another impact player (00:00). They dive into the options for the Blue Jays to improve their roster, the prospects that should or shouldn't be traded, their concerns with the current rotation of starting pitchers, and the top priority that is improving the bullpen. Then, JD and Ben react to the news that the Blue Jays have acquired 2021 Cy Young winner, Shane Bieber, from the Cleveland Guardians, who is in the middle of a rehab assignment as he recovers from Tommy John Surgery (38:31).  The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

JD returns from his vacation to break down the Blue Jays' struggles amid their four-game losing streak, including two losses in a double-header to the Baltimore Orioles on Tuesday, and looks into the trade for reliever Seranthony Domínguez from those same Orioles (00:00). Then, Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith joins the show to dive deeper into the trade, what the Blue Jays still need to do ahead of Thursday's trade deadline, the projected hierarchy of the bullpen should they add another arm, the remaining options in the starting pitching market, and the rumours surrounding some position players the Blue Jays could be interested in acquiring, before giving an update on some of the injured players on the roster (7:46). Later, JD looks ahead to the deadline with interest as he questions wo Toronto will add (46:51).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.

JD starts with his thoughts on the NHL schedule release, the potential lack of anticipation for Mitch Marner's return to Toronto, and the comparison to John Tavares' return to Long Island after signing with the Maple Leafs (00:00). Rob Longley, Toronto Sun Blue Jays reporter joins the show to chat about JD's burning questions for the Jays heading into the unofficial second half of the MLB season (07:04). They discuss the need for Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to improve at the plate, the situation the front office finds itself in, predictions for the Blue Jays rotation should they make the playoffs, George Springer's resurgence and whether or not it can be sustained, and the chances that Anthony Santander gets going when he returns to the lineup. Later, JD gives his thoughts on Shane Gillis hosting job at the ESPY's, reporting around the Maple Leafs regarding Nazem Kadri and Morgan Rielly, and Scottie Scheffler's comments ahead of The Open Championship (37:44).  The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

JD opens with his thoughts on the MLB All-Star Game, the addition of the ABS system, and the efficiency of more technology in sports (00:00). Ariel Helwani, Creator of Uncrowned, joins to chat about the New York Knicks offseason following their Eastern Conference Finals loss and the comparisons to the Toronto Maple Leafs, before getting into the state of the UFC Heavyweight division, the rumoured event taking place at the White House next year, the trilogy match between Dustin Poirier and Max Holloway in what will be Poirier's retirement fight, and what could be next for Holloway (05:36). Later, JD previews the unofficial second half for the Blue Jays and the excitement that could be coming in Toronto if the Jays continues to march towards the postseason (46:07).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 affiliates.

JD discusses his feelings towards the MLB's Home Run Derby ahead of the All-Star Game tonight, as well as the possibility that the Canadian anthem was omitted as the festivities began, before turning his attention to the Blue Jays position in the American League heading into the break (00:00). Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith joins the show to chat about the Blue Jays' options in the starting pitcher trade market, an update on Max Scherzer's health, what constitutes success for this group as we look ahead to the unofficial second half of the MLB season, and whether or not it will force the front office to address multiple positions in the market (11:10). Later, JD takes a look at the NHL's new CBA and the changes we will see over the next few seasons (45:30).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 affiliates.

JD opens the MLB All-Star break with his thoughts on the Blue Jays series loss to the Athletics, John Schneider's decision making with rest coming to the core players, and the direction the team should be headed in the unofficial second half of the season (00:00). JD takes a look at the available starting pitchers ahead of the trade deadline and what Toronto will consider moving in order to upgrade the roster, before singling out Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s production this season and what seems to be going wrong for the Jays' best player. JD checks in on the latest from the Nick Tarnasky golf saga, before opening the conversation around Nazem Kadri re-joining the Maple Leafs and Ryan Reaves' comments at his opening media availability following the trade to the Sharks (28:45).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 affiliates.

JD opens the show with his thoughts on the news that Ryan Reaves has been traded from the Toronto Maple Leafs to the San Jose Sharks. Matt Murray, former Maple Leaf and new Seattle Kraken goaltender, joins to chat about his decision to head west, his Stanley Cup champion teams in Pittsburgh, the difficulties of playing goalie in today's game, the lack of dominant Canadian goalies, as well as his experience playing in Toronto and his relationship with Joseph Woll (00:00). Later, JD discusses his appearance at a live podcast event in Toronto and urges listeners to follow their passion (45:42).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 affiliates.

JD takes a look at Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s recent string of play amidst the Blue Jays hot streak and how to approach the topic when he's seemingly underperforming (00:00). Jeff Blair, host of Blair and Barker, joins the show to continue the discussion on Vladdy's performance of late, whether or not he can return to his MVP-candidate form, what the front office should be looking to add to the roster at the trade deadline, the chances of a baseball work stoppage coming up in the next few years, how a salary cap could be implemented in the MLB, and the effect that would have on the sport (05:24). Later, JD questions the Maple Leafs' interest in free agent Jack Roslovic as the NHL offseason rolls on rather quietly (47:45).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 affiliates.

JD and Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, open the show by breaking down the viral golf fight video making the rounds on social media, before diving into the Blue Jays' 10-game win streak following their rainout victory over the Chicago White Sox (00:00). They discuss the contributions from everyone on the roster, the ascension of Addison Barger in 2025, who should be playing the most at second base, and the expectations for the front office as we approach the trade deadline with Daulton Varsho and Anthony Santander getting closer to returning. Later, JD explains his struggles in finding a local tennis coach in Toronto and his upcoming public speaking appearance (43:48). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates. 

JD deep dives into the Toronto Blue Jays' unexpected nine-game win streak, the contributions from players up-and-down the roster, comparisons with the 2015 Blue Jays, and where things are headed as we inch closer to the MLB Trade Deadline (00:00). Michael Pezzetta, newly signed Maple Leafs forward, joins the show to chat about his decision to sign with the Maple Leafs, what it means to him to get the chance to play for his hometown team, as well as his physical style of play and his experience fighting Ryan Reaves (25:24). JD wraps up the show with a look at the Norman Powell trade to the Miami Heat, and the emotions behind Masai Ujiri's tribute to his time in Toronto (43:01).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 affiliates.

JD breaks down the Blue Jays' four-game sweep of the Yankees at Rogers Centre, and looks back to compare this series with other memorable Jays moments in recent years (00:00). Justin Bourne, co-host of Real Kyper and Bourne, joins the show to discuss the Maple Leafs' offseason so far, what they've lost with Mitch Marner heading to the Vegas Golden Knights and what can be done to replace him, before looking at the roster heading into next season to predict what the lines might look like (09:13). JD kicks off the weekend with a look at Jonas Valančiūnas' potential move overseas after being acquired by the Denver Nuggets, and the effect the NBA salary cap has on player movement (47:13). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

JD reacts to the Blue Jays' crazy win over the Yankees with Sportsnet Blue Jays analyst, Joe Siddall (00:00). They discuss the energy at the Rogers Centre after the Jays got out to a 7-0 lead in the first inning, the scrappy offense becoming more consistent amongst a lack of power in the lineup, George Springer's return to form in 2025, what's led to the team's improvement this season, and the direction the pitching staff is going with the trade deadline looming. Later, JD compares the Milwaukee Bucks to the Raptors, after the Bucks signed former Pacers centre Myles Turner and waived nine-time All Star Damian Lillard to make the space (46:08). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

JD opens with his thoughts on the Canada Day victory for the Blue Jays over the Yankees at Rogers Centre, the belief that the team can be competitive after a tough start to the season, George Springer's renaissance at age 35, and the direction they're headed as we get closer to the MLB Trade Deadline at the end of July (00:00). JD dives into the deals signed during the first day of NHL free agent frenzy, the Maple Leafs' moves including bringing in Michael Pezzetta, letting Pontus Holmberg walk to the Lightning, and what remains out there to scoop up this offseason, before getting into Mitch Marner's comments at his opening press conference with the Vegas Golden Knights (21:16).  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 affiliates.

JD continues the deep dive into the pre-free agency moves across the NHL with David Pagnotta, Editor-In-Chief at The Fourth Period (00:00). They discuss the moving parts around the Mitch Marner trade to the Vegas Golden Knights, what led Marner and the Maple Leafs to this point, and how Toronto could replace him in free agency. They shift to the Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers, and their ability to hold onto key players like Sam Bennett, Aaron Ekblad, and Brad Marchand, before looking at the newest Leaf in Matias Maccelli, and predict other moves the Leafs could make this summer. JD hits on the Blue Jays scrappy win over the Yankees to start their Canada Day series at the Rogers Centre, before closing out the show with his final thoughts on Marner and the Leafs moves so far (41:08).  The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

JD breaks down the latest moves ahead of NHL Free Agency, including Mitch Marner being dealt to the Vegas Golden Knights (00:00), before Luke Fox, Sportsnet NHL writer, joins the show. He continues the conversation around Marner's departure and legacy, what the Leafs have done so far this offseason, and who they might be targeting in free agency. Colby Armstrong, NHL analyst for Sportsnet and the NHL on TNT, joins JD in-studio to chat about Marner's chances of winning in Vegas, what the Leafs lineup might look like next season, and other moves around the league ,including the Florida Panthers re-signing all of their key free agents (37:25). 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 affiliates. 

JD dives into the John Tavares and Matthew Knies' contract extensions with the Maple Leafs, before James Mirtle (00:00), senior writer at The Athletic, joins the show to chat about what Tavares could've gotten on the open market and what the deal means for Tavares' legacy in Toronto, before assessing the Knies extension. Then, they take a look at Mitch Marner's situation, the odds a sign-and-trade gets done with the Vegas Golden Knights, what the tampering allegations change about the negotiations, the chances Brad Marchand becomes a Leaf, and what the other options might be in free agency (17:44). Finally, JD gives Ilia Topuria his flowers for his victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 (48:58). 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 affiliates.

JD goes through the Blue Jays win over the Cleveland Guardians, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Jose Ramirez both getting beaned, and how to view this Jays team as we approach the MLB trade deadline (00:00). Frank Seravalli, President of Hockey Content at Daily Faceoff, joins the show to chat about the upcoming CBA announcement, and the latest updates concerning the Leafs' negotiations with John Tavares and Mathew Knies. Later, Sportsnet's Michael Grange jumps on to chat about the breaking news around Masai Ujiri and the Toronto Raptors parting ways, what could have led to this decision, and what the plan could be going forward (27:50). 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.

JD and The Ringer's Tate Frazier break down the first round of the NBA Draft, including the Raptors taking Collin Murray-Boyles out of South Carolina and his initial reaction (00:00), the talent taken at the top compared to projections, the astonishing trade between the Hawks and Pelicans, the Brooklyn Nets using all five of their acquired first-rounders, and the continued influx of Canadian talent into the NBA. Then, JD takes a look at Max Scherzer's return to the mound for the Blue Jays and what it means for the team, as well as the Evander Kane trade from Edmonton to Vancouver (43:13). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

JD and Blake Murphy, co-host of Jays Talk Plus & The Raptors Show, discuss the activity in the NBA trade market ahead of the Draft, where the Raptors fit within all of the recent player movement, and some potential targets for Toronto with the ninth overall pick, before touching on the Blue Jays' options as we get closer to the MLB Trade Deadline (37:20). Later, JD hits on the 2025 Hockey Hall of Fame class, including former Maple Leafs forward Alexander Mogilny finally getting inducted (44:53).The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates. 

JD and Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, debate the Blue Jays needs at the MLB trade deadline (00:00) and the sustainability of the starter depth with Eric Lauer and Max Scherzer starting consecutive games, before taking a look at the front office's off-season additions as the Jays approach the mid-season mark. Later, JD and Ben discuss their differences in handling sports-pain amidst JD's Oklahoma City Thunder trauma (39:31).The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates. 

JD breaks down the Oklahoma City Thunder's NBA Championship win in Game 7 against the Indiana Pacers, with thoughts on the prolific season from the Thunder and Finals MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (00:00). James Mirtle of the Athletic joins JD to chat about the rumours surrounding John Tavares, whether or not they can come to a team-friendly agreement, and the lack of centre depth available in free agency (10:32). JD and Mirtle shift to the Matthew Knies situation, what's led to the expected divorce with Mitch Marner, and the likelihood that the Leafs make an offer on July 1st. Later, JD dives into Kevin Durant's trade to the Houston Rockets (47:49). 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. 

JD discusses how Matt Duschene's contract extension in Dallas should be viewed here in Toronto (00:00). JD then shifts focus to the NBA Finals and brings on Sportsnet's Michael Grange (12:00) to get into the Indiana Pacers forcing a Game 7. JD and Grange discuss Pascal Siakam's case for Finals MVP, if Siakam has more love in Canada then Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, TJ McConnel's allure, the keys in Game 7, and the Raptors' chase for a star. 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.  

JD is joined by Stanley Cup champion, Kris Versteeg, to list and debate the best teams in the NHL's salary cap era (00:00). JD and Kris also discuss the make-up of the Panthers and whether Connor McDavid's time in Edmonton is running out. 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.  

JD reacts to the Oklahoma City Thunder taking control of the NBA Finals in game 5, then gives his thoughts on the NBA's parity era and what the Raptors plan is as they "lurk" in sweepstakes for seemingly every star. Later (36:00), JD clarifies his stance on Mitch Marner. The show ends with 'What We Missed!' (46:30).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 affiliates.  

JD reacts to reports that Mitch Marner is unwilling to communicate with the Maple Leafs (00:00) and the Boston Red Sox trading Rafael Devers (6:00). Blake Wheeler, 16-year NHL forward and former teammate of Brad Marchand, gets into (9:00) the transformation of Marchand, what teams from the past mirror the current Florida Panthers, judging Connor McDavid's performance in the Stanley Cup Final, what makes Leon Draisaitl great, and working around shoddy goaltending. Later, JD gives his thoughts on the Desmond Bane trade (44:00).  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. 

JD reacts to the Edmonton Oilers stunning comeback victory in game 4, Connor McDavid's performance, how Leon Draisaitl will be remembered and a sign of rising popularity for the NHL (00:00). Later, JD and producer Armen get into the off-putting change in basketball development and Adam Silver's comments on NBA expansion (30:00). 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. 

JD and Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, admit they were wrong about the Indiana Pacers (00:00), talk about the complicated feelings when sports franchises relocate, and debate if the Blue Jays are a good baseball team? (13:00) JD and Ben evaluate Spencer Turnbull's debut, Alejandro Kirk's stardom, the starting rotation and who the Jays can trade for. Later, the duo discuss how ring culture may start to change (43:00). 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. 

JD rides the high of the Blue Jays securing their fifth-straight series victory (00:00). Jackie Redmond, from the NHL on TNT, checks-in from Florida to dip into the stakes in the Stanley Cup Final (5:00). JD and Jackie chat about the storylines surrounding Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, plus thoughts on Brad Marchand or Sam Bennett signing with the Maple Leafs. Later, JD gets into the latest buzz around the trade markets for Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kevin Durant (38:00). 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.

JD reacts to another comeback win from the Blue Jay and why this hot stretch of play feels sustainable (00:00). Two-time Stanley Cup Champion, Kris Versteeg, joins JD (7:00) to get into the depth of the Florida Panthers, if and how Connor McDavid can will the Edmonton Oilers back into the series, the Conn Smythe race, if older NHL players are valued more than ever, and turning frustration into production. The show ends with reaction to Gary Bettman's defensiveness when asked about addressing state tax advantages in the next collective bargaining agreement (42:00). 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. 

JD reacts to the Blue Jays' mostly good weekend and the obvious trade that needs to materialize (00:00). The Athletic's James Mirtle checks-in from the NHL combine to discuss the buzz among front offices (3:00) including teams interested in Mitch Marner, Sam Bennett's rising stock, plus the positioning of John Tavares and Morgan Reilly. JD and James finish the conversation deliberating who or what would actually change the Maple Leafs DNA (30:00). 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. 

JD reacts to the historic comeback win from the Indiana Pacers and Tyrese Haliburton (00:00). JD then goes through his feelings following the report of Mitch Marner, his relationship with the Maple Leafs and his looming free-agency (20:00). The show ends with JD's gripes following the news of Aaron Rodgers finally signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers (34:00), along with Gary Bettman addressing the media. 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.  

JD goes over the dramatics in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final, along with the "what if" of Sam Bennett signing with the Maple Leafs (00:00). JD then shifts focus to the NBA (12:00) as Sportsnet's Michael Grange checks-in from Oklahoma City to chat about the Raptors' chase for a star, if a NBA title will change Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's connection with Canadian fans, how the Indiana Pacers can make the finals competitive, and the NBA's parity era. 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. 

JD explains what he was thinking at Rogers Centre as the Philadelphia Phillies lit up Bowden Francis (00:00). Sean Avery, 10-year NHL forward and author of Summer Skate, discusses what inspired him to write a book, the state-tax debate in NHL circles, the "pests" and "dogs" in playoff hockey, Corey Perry, Brad Marchand, the Maple Leafs identity and if Sam Bennett would change it (10:00). JD ends with thoughts on the high stakes in the Stanley Cup Final and the Raptors' chance at landing Giannis Antetokounmpo (37:00). 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.

JD explains why he's buying the rumours tying Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Toronto Raptors (00:00). Colby Armstrong, NHL analyst for Sportsnet and the NHL on TNT, joins JD (14:00) to catch up and chat about their biggest points of interest heading into the 2025 Stanley Cup Final. 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.  

JD and Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, discuss Addison Barger's breakout and the Blue Jays' homerun-happy weekend (00:00). Is Barger the story of the Jays season so far? What's different between Davis Schneider's spark in 2023 versus Barger's now? Should umpires be held more accountable? Later, JD and Ben chat about Pascal Siakam winning Eastern Conference Finals MVP and revisit the Raptors trading him away (32:00). 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.

JD explains his admiration for the Edmonton Oilers, before illustrating his offseason Maple Leafs thoughts following Brad Treliving's comments regarding Mitch Marner, John Tavares, team DNA, culture, and the Florida Panthers. Dallas Braden, former MLB pitcher and Athletics colour analyst, breaks down the importance of team identity, divisional success, Chris Bassitt's career longevity, and if we'll see starting pitchers like him in the future (20:00). 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.  

 Maple Leafs General Manager Brad Treliving speaks with the media at Scotiabank Arena (2:00) and JD reacts (40:00) on the other side. 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.

JD explains why the Toronto market pressure discourse is overblown and previews what Maple Leafs General Manager Brad Treliving will have to address this morning (00:00). Sportsnet Blue Jays reporter Ben Nicholson-Smith joins JD to discuss Bo Bichette's comfort level, how the Jays' pitching is carrying the load, why the team seems hesitant to put Anthony Santander in the injured list, and what could be next for Santander (16:00). 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.  

JD weighs the effectiveness of the Stanley Cup Playoffs format (00:00). Keegan Matheson, Blue Jays reporter with MLB.com and author of "The Franchise: Toronto Blue Jays: A Curated History", joins JD to discuss his book and try to make sense of Anthony Santander's painfully slow start, the Jays identity, and the back-end of the starting rotation (10:00). JD reacts to the New York Knicks failure in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals (43:30). 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 affiliates.