JD Bunkis breaks down the biggest stories in sports every weekday morning. Honest, direct, and a touch of diablerie. Airing live on Sportsnet 590 The FAN from 9am-11am ET.
JD is joined by Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, to break down Trey Yesavage's first career MLB start with the Blue Jays, as they defeated the Rays in 11 innings (00:00). They discuss the rookie's dominance in his first major league appearance, his unique arm angle and how it affects hitters, and whether or not he will get another start with the big club. Then, JD and Ben get into the Blue Jays' bullpen, Brayden Fisher's dominance in September, and who will be a part of the playoff roster. Later, the guys chat about Bo Bichette's injury and what the defensive positioning should look like when he returns, before touching on Ken Rosenthal's apology after accidentally knocking over the Brewers cameraman while live on air and Tom Brady's appearance in the coach's booth on Monday Night Football (34:21).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 recaps the Blue Jays' series sweep over the Baltimore Orioles as they continue to push for the AL East pennant, and gives Kevin Gausman his flowers ahead of a potential Game 1 playoff start (00:00). Brady Quinn, FOX NFL analyst, joins the show to break down Week 2 in the NFL (9:32), including the injury to Joe Burrow that will keep him out for three months, the struggles of Trevor Lawrence and the Jaguars, and the Lions' embarrassing the Bears at home with former Offensive Coordinator Ben Johnson making his return to Detroit, before getting into the poor start to J.J. McCarthy's career in Minnesota, the Eagles' win in the most recent matchup between Philadelphia and Kansas City, and the surprising start from Daniel Jones and the Colts. Later, JD reacts to Orioles analyst Brian Roberts' comments on Blue Jays fans baseball knowledge (47:18).The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
JD is joined by Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, to discuss the Blue Jays' loss to the Astros in dramatic fashion (00:00). The guys get into Jeff Hoffman allowing another 9th inning home run and whether or not a change should be made in the bullpen, the case for Trey Yesavage to be brought up, the recent offensive struggles without Bo Bichette in the lineup, and how the lineup could shake out when Bichette returns from injury. Later, JD and Ben chat about the use of AI in the major leagues to track pitches and steal signs, and the comments made by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver about streaming games (35:00).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' latest stressful comeback victory over the Houston Astros in their series-opener, following the news that Bo Bichette would be placed on the IL (00:00). James Mirtle, senior writer at The Athletic, joins the show to discuss the Maple Leafs as they prepare to open training camp, including the additions made over the offseason and the projected line combinations, expectations for Easton Cowan's development in the pros, potential changes to the powerplay with Mitch Marner's departure, the status of Auston Matthews' health, and the goalie situation with Anthony Stolarz heading into a contract year (9:48). Later, JD breaks down Marner's latest comments on playing in Toronto, and the new reports around Kawhi Leonard's free agency negotiations (45:46).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 sets up the Blue Jays series against the Astros down at Rogers Centre, before breaking down quotes from Matthew Knies at the NHL Player Media Tour (00:00). Brady Quinn, FOX NFL Analyst joins the show to discuss the results from the NFL's first week back. They look at the Vikings and J.J. McCarthy taking down Caleb Williams and the Bears on MNF, the Green Bay Packers' dominant victory over the Detroit Lions, Aaron Rodgers and Justin Herbert's performances in Week 1 wins, the incredible finish between the Bills and Ravens, and the potential trouble brewing in New England and Tennessee (9:29). Later, JD highlights Aroldis Chapman's season with the Red Sox, and another incredible feat from Joey Chestnut (44:10).The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
JD reacts to the Bills' improbable comeback victory against the Ravens on Sunday Night Football and quickly breaks down Week 1 of the NFL slate, before getting to the Blue Jays series loss against the Yankees in the Bronx (00:00). Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith joins the show to continue the conversation about the Blue Jays, Bo Bichette's recent injury, the Yankees' sign-stealing ability and John Schneider's comments on the subject, Max Scherzer and Chris Bassitt's performances as they try to lock down a spot in the post-season rotation, and the current hierarchy in the bullpen (10:45). Later, JD takes a look at the angry Phillies fan who demanded a home run ball, the Ottawa Senators releasing a Ridly Greig empty-net slap shot bobblehead this season, and Connor McDavid's latest comments on his contract negotiations (36:57).The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
JD reflects on the Blue Jays' series win against the Reds following another offensive explosion and praises Jays' ace Shane Bieber for his gutsy six-inning performance, before taking a closer look at the depth throughout the lineup (00:00). JD details the incredible season that George Springer is having, and makes the case for him to be included in the American League MVP conversation. Later, JD previews the start of the NFL regular season ahead of the Eagles-Cowboys matchup on Thursday Night Football, before Scott Hanson, host of NFL RedZone, joins the show to chat about his prep ahead of the first show on Sunday, his thoughts and predictions ahead of the regular season, and the prospect of a Bills-Lions Super Bowl matchup (20:12).The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
JD is joined by Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, to discuss the reports around Kawhi Leonard signing with the Los Angeles Clippers after the 2019 championship and how it effected the Raptors' chances the following season (00:00). They shift to the Blue Jays' pitching situation after their chaotic victory in Cincinnati to discuss José Berríos' challenges on the mound, the competition for spots in the playoff rotation, and the bullpen's recent struggles with top prospect Trey Yesavage making his case to join the team (13:46). Later, the guys take a look at some of the more surprising seasons from Toronto athletes as they reflect on the incredible season George Springer is having (34:25).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 reacts to the Blue Jays' Labour Day weekend performances against the Brewers and Reds, looking specifically at the results from both the starting pitching and bullpen (00:00). Dan Shulman, Blue Jays play-by-play voice for Sportsnet, continues the conversation around the bullpen struggles, including Brendon Little, Yariel Rodriguez, and newcomers Louis Varland and Seranthony Domínguez, before getting into Jeff Hoffman's role as the closer, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s play since returning from a hamstring injury, and how changes throughout the lineup could positively impact the offence (8:04). Later, JD gives his thoughts on Mitch Marner's comments about leaving the Maple Leafs for Vegas this offseason, and the effect it may have on his legacy in Toronto (45:48).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 reflects on the Blue Jays' latest comeback win against the Twins, along with the decision to implement a six-man rotation. Brady Quinn, FOX NFL analyst, joins the show to discuss some of the biggest stories in the NFL heading into the new season (00:00). They run through Lamar Jackson and the Ravens, the Steelers' addition of Aaron Rodgers, and the Browns' quarterback room that includes Joe Flacco and Shedeur Sanders, before chatting about Caleb Williams heading into his sophomore season with the Bears and rookie J.J. McCarthy as he begins his NFL career with the Vikings. Later, JD adds on to his Blue Jays rotation take, and reacts to Connor McDavid's comments at Team Canada's Olympic Orientation Camp regarding his upcoming contract negotiations with the Oilers (34:53). 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 acknowledges that the summer in Toronto is nearing it's end after heading down to Rogers Centre for the Blue Jays' loss to the Twins, and gives his thoughts on George Springer's continued excellence at the plate and the latest collapse by the bullpen (00:00). Joe Siddall, Sportsnet Blue Jays analyst, joins JD to continue the discussion on the concern level in the bullpen, before getting into questions about the outfield with Anthony Santander expected to make an eventual return, and how the rotation is looking with just over a month left in the regular season (8:40). Later, JD dives into William Nylander's comments at the NHL's European Player Media Tour, as he discussed Mitch Marner leaving the Maple Leafs (39:16). 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 is joined by Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, to begin Tuesday's show. JD opens with thoughts on live events in the city on the heels of Oasis' concert at Rogers Stadium, before getting into the issues with PitchCom during the Blue Jays latest victory in their series opener against the Twins (00:00). They break down Shane Bieber's Blue Jays debut in Miami after missing nearly two seasons to Tommy John surgery, and project how Bieber can elevate the Jays chances in the American League, and they also praise Alejandro Kirk for his performance in 2025 after getting his contract extension in the off-season (15:35). Later, the guys look at the Blue Jays bullpen additions in Seranthony Domínguez and Louie Varland, and continue the conversation on what the pitching staff will look like in the playoffs (33:10). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
JD reacts to the Blue Jays series' loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates and Tommy Pham's revenge game, before making the case that it should be José Berríos in the bullpen over Eric Lauer as the Jays stick with a five-man rotation (00:00). Ben Nicholson-Smith, host of At The Letters, joins JD to continue to the conversation on the starting rotation, Berríos' leash with Shane Bieber joining the squad against the Marlins this weekend, the strength of the bullpen with Lauer slated to join the group, expectations for Bieber in his first start since April 2024, and the effect that Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s injury has on the lineup (9:54). Later, JD discusses the comments by Auston Matthews on Mitch Marner heading to the Vegas Golden Knights (46:46).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 is joined by Kevin Barker, co-host of Blair and Barker, to discuss the plans for the Blue Jays' starting rotation with Shane Bieber making his season debut on Friday, and Max Scherzer pitching as well as he has with Toronto (00:00). They also get into Jeff Hoffman and the construction of the bullpen, the recent baserunning and defensive lapses, and the effect Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s injury could have going forward. Later, JD dives into the Indianapolis Colts' decision to name Daniel Jones their Week 1 starter over former first round pick Anthony Richardson, and pokes fun at those who vacation at Disneyland without kids (39:54). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
JD dives into the awkward incident between Tyler Heineman and Tommy Pham during the Blue Jays loss to the Pirates, and wonders about possible retribution coming in the second game of the series (00:00). James Palmer, NFL insider at Bleacher Report, joins the show to discuss the biggest storylines from the NFL training camps and preseason including the Cleveland Browns' decision to start Joe Flacco in Week 1, the QB competition brewing in the Big Apple between Russell Wilson and Jaxson Dart, the expectations for the Chicago Bears and the NFC North, and the Steelers' chances to keep Mike Tomlin's streak alive (7:57). Later, JD gives his thoughts on the Raptors' announcement that Bobby Webster will be named Head of Basketball Operations (45:49).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 is joined by Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, to preview the Blue Jays series against the Pirates in Pittsburgh and the excitement of seeing Paul Skenes make his first career start against Toronto (00:00). The guys discuss the Jays' position as a favourite in the American League to reach the World Series, the depth of competition in the AL once the playoffs begin, what would constitute a disappointing end to the 2025 season, and the expectations for the rotation with Shane Bieber's debut looming. Later, JD and Ben get into the reports that the Diamondbacks could be looking to move All-Star second baseman Ketel Marte, and Rob Manfred's comments on possible MLB expansion (41:42).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 opens with thoughts on the Blue Jays' loss to the Cubs at Rogers Centre on Wednesday, the importance of winning Thursday's series finale, and the recent performance of the starting rotation (00:00). Ben Nicholson-Smith joins to chat more about pitching, the expectations for Shane Bieber when he gets back to the big leagues, and the excitement around Trey Yesavage making his first Triple-A start (9:18). Later, former MLB All-Star, Andrew Miller, jumps on with JD to chat about his famous outings against the Blue Jays, the development of the game and how it's viewed, and the ongoing youth movement amongst the players, before getting into his work with the MLBPA, the continuing CBA negotiations and the changes that could come after next season (20:01). 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 starts with the Blue Jays following another victory, along with his feelings on the front office returning after Mark Shapiro's comments to the media (00:00). Dakota Joshua, newly acquired Maple Leafs' forward, joins the show to chat about his path to the NHL through the NCAA system, the changing landscape in junior hockey, the challenges of his 2024-25 season, the excitement of coming to Toronto and joining the Leafs, and what the fans can expect from his game (5:31). Later, JD continues his thoughts on the Blue Jays and looks forward to what the future looks like for management and the core group, before breaking down Kyle Dubas' interview on the Cam & Strick Podcast (33:42).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 opens with his thoughts on preseason action, and his change of heart when it comes to paying attention to exhibition games (00:00). Lance Lynn, 13-year Major League pitcher, joins the show to chat about his retirement, the changing role of starting pitchers and managers in the MLB, his experience moving between three teams within a year, before touching on the Yankees' struggles, the depth of the Blue Jays' starting rotation, and the legacy of his former teammate, Albert Pujols (5:55). Later, JD breaks down the latest update for the Ottawa Senators' future downtown arena project (46:52).The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
JD is joined by Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, to discuss the Blue Jays salvaging their series in Los Angeles (00:00). They touch on Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s clutch numbers following his game-tying home run in the eighth inning, Jeff Hoffman's struggles to find the strike zone after a week-long hiatus, the looming decision on Shane Bieber joining the starting rotation, and question whether or not the front office should have made one more deal at the deadline. Later, JD and Ben get into their thoughts on Happy Gilmore 2, before debating what should happen with Shane Bieber over the next few weeks (33:42).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 is joined by Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, to recap his time at the National Bank Open semi-finals, before attempting to rank the most athletic sports across the world. Then, the guys get into their takeaways from the historic Blue Jays series against the Rockies, including the continued depth down the lineup, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. starting to find his power stroke since the All-Star break (00:00). Later, JD and Ben shift their attention to the Blue Jays pitching staff as they start to project who should be a part of a potential playoff rotation, what goes into that decision for the Jays' coaching staff, and whether or not Eric Lauer has earned himself a spot with his performance this season (31:31). 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 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.