Writers Bloc

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Jeff Blair. Stephen Brunt. Richard Deitsch. As long-time journalists they’ve all experienced writer’s block, but they never run out of things to say! Opinions, insight and analysis from three of the smartest sports observers in the country. Writers Bloc… sharp takes, not hot takes.

Sportsnet


    • Oct 31, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • daily NEW EPISODES
    • 58m AVG DURATION
    • 2,784 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Writers Bloc

    The Biggest Weekend in 32 Years with Shi Davidi & Jon “Boog” Sciambi

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2025 48:16


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off the final hour of the week with ESPN's Jon “Boog” Sciambi, discussing the Blue Jays' performance in the World Series. They dive into the team's chemistry, the struggling Dodgers, Mookie Betts, and what to expect from Yoshinobu Yamamoto. They also chat with Sportsnet's Shi Davidi (25:47) about his thoughts on the series, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s impressive play, and George Springer's potential impact. Finally, they wrap up with predictions for the weekend's games.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Teeing Up Game 6 of the World Series with Buck Martinez

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2025 48:57


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning dive into the second hour discussing potential World Series MVPs for the Blue Jays, beyond Vladimir Guerrero Jr. They highlight Addison Barger's strong performance and ponder who might be the team's unsung hero a decade from now—could it be Andres Gimenez, Nathan Lukes, or Chris Bassitt? The duo shares confidence rankings for the bullpen, reflecting on Jeff Hoffman's resurgence. They then welcome Buck Martinez (24:48), Blue Jays legend and Sportsnet analyst, to chat before Game 6. Buck shares his thoughts on the team's playoff run, compares it to past World Series teams, and weighs in on facing Yoshinobu Yamamoto. He also discusses George Springer's status and shares his confidence about the team's readiness.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Blue Jays on the Brink of the World Series

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2025 50:16


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off Friday morning discussing Game 6 of the World Series. How does it feel to wake up on the brink of history, especially with the Blue Jays as favorites? Are they justifiably favored? With George Springer rumored to be close to returning, how healthy can we expect him to be? Will the Jays extend Gausman beyond his usual limits, and what implications would that have? How should they approach Yoshinobu Yamamoto tonight for better results? Shifting focus to the Dodgers, if they lose, who bears the blame? Is it the bullpen or the underperforming lineup? Can we expect the lineup to rally? How will they manage their bullpen down the stretch? Should the Jays consider extending any starters, and is it fair to blame Dave Roberts?The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    One. More. Win. + Lou Merloni

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 30, 2025 45:34


    Ben and Brent kick off the final hour discussing the Blue Jays nearing a World Series win and its potential impact on the city. They engage with fans about expectations for the closing game and share thoughts on Dave Roberts' performance with the Dodgers. The conversation shifts to the effects of Game 6 on Halloween festivities and the possibility of the Blue Jays making free agency moves. Former MLB player and NESN analyst Lou Merloni (22:47) joins to discuss the Blue Jays' gameplay and the significance of their success. He highlights the team's unsung heroes and reflects on his experience calling the memorable Dodgers-Red Sox 18-inning game, contemplating if such long games are detrimental for the Dodgers. They also explore the implications of a Blue Jays victory for baseball and future CBA negotiations.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    World Series Game 6 Storylines with Jon Morosi

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 30, 2025 52:29


    Ben and Brent begin the second hour by previewing Game 6 of the World Series! They discuss George Springer's status ahead of Friday's matchup, before taking a closer look at what Bo Bichette's comments to Ken Rosenthal could indicate about his future in Toronto. Later, MLB Network's Jon Morosi (25:38) joins to share his thoughts on the series, including Trey Yesavage's standout outing, Blake Snell's struggles, Bichette's resurgence, and how these storylines could shape Game 6 and the offseason.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.

    Blue Jays One Win Away From Glory

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 30, 2025 50:14


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open Thursday's show by breaking down the Blue Jays victory in Game 5 to move one win away from a World Series title. They look back on Trey Yesavage's dominant seven-inning outing and his impact on the Blue Jays' postseason run, before examining how the team managed to get to Blake Snell despite missing George Springer. The boys also highlight Davis Schneider's instant payoff in the leadoff role and John Schneider's decision to start Addison Barger against a lefty as signs of managerial growth. After the break, Ben and Brent take some time to discuss the Maple Leafs' loss to the Blue Jackets, John Tavares' 500th goal, and the concerns arising from the team's performance.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.

    Joba Chamberlain and Cody Decker Set Up Game 5

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2025 47:32


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning are joined by former MLB player Joba Chamberlain to discuss the World Series, including his take on the Blue Jays' postseason performance, Shane Bieber's pitching, and Chris Bassitt's unexpected role out of the bullpen. Joba also shares insights on Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s star status and the value of leadership in the clubhouse, while expressing anticipation for Trey Yesavage's performance. Later, they welcome Cody Decker (28:02), who shares his views on the series, George Springer's injury, and the differences in the bullpens of both teams. Ben and Brent wrap up with their predictions for Game 5.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    World Series Game 5 Preview + TML Trending Up with Gord Stellick

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2025 48:39


    Ben and Brent open the second hour alongside Gord Stellick, former Maple Leafs GM and friend of the show! They start off with thoughts on the Blue Jays' current run and how the city's excitement compares to the 1992–93 seasons, as well as the Raptors' 2019 championship. They also take time to dive into the Maple Leafs' win over the Flames last night, praising Max Domi's standout performance, Matthew Knies' strong play, and speculating on Joseph Woll's return. Later, the hosts draw some parallels between the Blue Jays' postseason success and the Leafs' progress, before previewing Game 5 of the World Series including the pitching matchup between Trey Yesavage and Blake Snell, as Toronto's offensive identity without George Springer.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.

    Blue Jays Respond in Game 4

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2025 51:00


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off Wednesday morning by recapping the Blue Jays' Game 4 victory over the Dodgers, highlighting how the team overcame George Springer's absence and the pivotal role Vladimir Guerrero Jr. could play in the next three games. They discuss Shane Bieber's strong outing and whether his approach offered a blueprint for containing Shohei Ohtani, as well as Chris Bassitt's impressive relief performance that may cement him as a key high-leverage arm. The hosts also emphasize the importance of attacking the Dodgers' bullpen. Later, they're joined by former major leaguer and By the Books host Jensen Lewis (28:36), who praises the Jays' resilience, analyzes Bieber's impact and Ohtani implications, weighs in on Trey Yesavage's start, and reflects on Bassitt's emergence. Lewis also considers what broader lessons a Blue Jays World Series win might offer the league.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.

    How Will the Blue Jays Respond in Game 4 with Erik Swanson

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 28, 2025 47:48


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off the final hour with former Blue Jays reliever Erik Swanson. They discuss Erik's memorable 18-inning game, the clubhouse atmosphere during long innings, and his thoughts on last night's game and Brandon Little's performance. Erik shares insights on how the team might respond in Game 4 and the impact on pitchers' routines. The hosts then turn to listener questions about Game 3 before wrapping up with predictions for today's World Series matchup (37:54).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 affiliate.

    Experiencing Game 3 Together & Regrouping for Game 4

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 28, 2025 48:11


    Ben and Brent kick off the second hour by checking the text-line to see how listeners experienced last night's historic Game 3. They reflect on the sense of unity among fans, how many people stayed up to watch the game until the very end, and what the atmosphere was like at the Rogers Centre watch party. They also discuss the emotions fans are feeling in the aftermath, and note the surprise surrounding Dave Roberts' comment to the American broadcast about considering a position player to pitch in the 18th inning. The guys answer listener questions about key moments, from pitching to Shohei Ohtani to sending Davis Schneider in extras. They highlight some of the unsung heroes from the game including Brayden Fisher and Eric Lauer, and praise the strength of the bullpen, while questioning why Chris Bassitt wasn't used more. Ben and Brent then turn their attention to Game 4, examining how the Blue Jays can regroup after this marathon loss. They discuss the potential impact of losing George Springer, assess how much trouble the team might be in, consider who could lead off the lineup, and share their thoughts on the chances of seeing a vintage Shane Bieber start tonight.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.

    What Did We Just See?!

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 28, 2025 52:29


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning begin Tuesday morning by recapping one of the wildest World Series games in the history of baseball. The guys go over the over six-hour game chronologically, starting from Bo Bichette being thrown out in the second inning. They discuss Home Plate Umpire Mark Wegner's overall performance, Alejandro Kirk's home run, the decision to pitch to Shohei Ohtani in the seventh inning, and the subsequent intention walk parade. In the aftermath, they evaluate John Schneider's lineup decisions, including whether pinch running was worth the trade-off of losing the bats of Addison Barger and Bo Bichette. They also consider how the injuries to George Springer and Alejandro Kirk affected the lineup, and the decision to send Davis Schneider, and Brendon Little's surprising 17th inning performance. Finally, they discuss how tough this loss is for the Blue Jays and how the team can rebound from it.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.

    Alex Avila & Adnan Virk Set Up Game 3 of the World Series

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2025 46:48


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning wrap up the morning by talking with former MLB catcher Alex Avila, who discusses Max Scherzer's World Series debut, comparing the younger and older versions of Scherzer, and what it's like to catch him. They also dive into his intensity and his longevity in the game. Next, MLB Network host Adnan Virk (27:04) shares insights on the series, discussing which team—Dodgers or Jays—holds the advantage now that it's shifting to LA, and reflects on the atmosphere in Toronto compared to the 92-93 World Series. They wrap up with thoughts on Game 3 and Bo Bichette's potential impact.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Game 3 Preview with Jon Morosi

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2025 50:09


    Ben and Brent start the second hour setting up everything ahead of Game 3 of the World Series! How big is this game in deciding the series? They dive into the decision to switch starters with Max Scherzer getting the ball tonight, as well as the Blue Jays outlook against opposing starter, Tyler Glasnow. Jon Morosi (24:00), MLB Network insider, shares his read on the momentum heading into Game 3, Bo Bichette's usage to start the series, who the Dodgers trust out of the bullpen, and the international representation in the 2025 Fall Classic.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Blue Jays Split World Series Games 1 & 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2025 50:29


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off this week with a look back on the Blue Jays first two games of the World Series! They discuss how important it is for the Jays to get to the Dodgers' bullpen, Trey Yesavage's difficult outing in Game 1, and Friday's magical sixth inning outburst. The guys also chat about how Bo Bichette looked at second base, what the choice for him to play the field tells us about George Springer's health, and how Toronto should feel about splitting the first two games at home. Later, Ben and Brent evaluate the Maple Leafs' mixed bag weekend after splitting their home-and-home with the Sabres. They dive into the feelings surrounding the team, Joseph Woll's pending return, and how Mitch Marner's absence has factored into the team's slow start. The guys close out the hour with thoughts on Cooper Flagg's coming out party at the expense of the Raptors last night.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.

    World Series Game 1 Tee Up with Jerry Howarth & Karl Ravech

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2025 48:16


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning wrap up the week with ESPN's play-by-play announcer Karl Ravech. They discuss the Blue Jays' performance in the divisional and championship series, their chances against the Dodgers, and the impact of Alex Vesia's loss on the Dodgers' bullpen. The conversation also touches on clutch players like George Springer, John Schneider's coaching, and whether the Blue Jays are America's team. Legendary FAN 590 announcer Jerry Howarth (26:38) joins to share his thoughts on the Blue Jays and memories from past World Series, as well as his predictions for the upcoming series.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Game 1 Preview with Madison Shipman

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2025 49:30


    Ben and Brent dive into the second hour with more ahead of Game 1 of the World Series! They take a closer look at where the Blue Jays have an advantage over the Dodgers, how each bullpen stacks up, and which players on each team put the most fear into your heart. The guys also chat about some potential X-factors on both sides, who has the edge on the mound, and the stakes for the Jays as they head to their first World Series in 32 years. Madison Shipman (27:10), Sportsnet Blue Jays analyst, shares the key matchups to watch for, how the Jays can minimize some of the Dodgers lineup threats, and Toronto's plan of attack in Game 1.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.

    Welcome to the World Series

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2025 50:12


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off Friday's show with everything you need to know ahead of Game 1 of the World Series! How important is it to set the tone tonight? They discuss their takeaways from media day yesterday, the keys for rookie Trey Yesavage on the mound, and how Bo Bichette's status will impact the rest of the roster. If he makes the team, where should he play? Later, Jensen Lewis (26:50), former MLB pitcher and host of By The Books on VSiN, shares some trends that favour the Blue Jays against the Dodgers. Jensen looks into the biggest differences in this series compared to the ALCS, the impact of Alex Vesia's absence from the Dodgers' bullpen, if Clayton Kershaw will fill his spot on the roster, and how Bo Bichette can factor in.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.

    World Series Decisions with Arden Zwelling + TNF Preview

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2025 47:25


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning chat with NFL analyst Charles Davis about the Dodgers being the Chiefs of the NFL, parallels between Travis Hunter and Shohei Ohtani, and the Jaguars' performance. They discuss the AFC landscape, the Chiefs' standing, the Steelers' regret after losing to the Bengals, and if Cincinnati is back in playoff contention. Next, they welcome Sportsnet's Arden Zwelling (26:30) to preview the World Series, his predictions for Game 1, and the overall series. They also discuss Bo Bichette's role, key factors for the Blue Jays, and bullpen dynamics between the Jays and Dodgers.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    World Series Storylines + Raptors 2025-26 Outlook

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2025 49:12


    Ben and Gunning roll into the second hour alongside Sportsnet's Michael Grange, live from Atlanta on the heels of the Raptors' season opener. He shares his expectations for the 2025-26 season and breaks down how the addition of Brandon Ingram can help elevate this team into a legit playoff contender. Grange also dives into Gradey Dick's development, "slither vs. slippery", and which skillset Gradey possesses. Later, Rob Longley (24:30) of the Toronto Sun helps previews the World Series! He discusses Bo Bichette's status ahead of Friday's Game 1, where he best fits in the lineup, and who will be the odd man out. Finally, the guys gauge the vibes in the city and chat about how it compares to 1992 and '93. before evaluating the X-factors for both the Dodgers and Blue Jays.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Raptors Open Season With a Win + Leafs Hold Optional Skate

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2025 50:57


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off Thursday morning by recapping the Raptors' season opener victory over the Atlanta Hawks! The guys share their major takeaways from the team's 138-118 win including first impressions of Brandon Ingram, the ceiling for this group, and if they have another gear they can get to. They also take some time to chat about Victor Wembanyama's impressive season debut with San Antonio. Can anyone stop this guy? Later, Ben and Brent discuss the Maple Leafs decision to hold an optional skate yesterday, Auston Matthews' early season form, Joseph Woll's status, and more.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    World Series Outlook + Raptors' Season Preview with Bobby Webster

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2025 46:56


    In the final hour, Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning welcome “At The Letters” co-host Ben Nicholson Smith to discuss the Blue Jays' ALCS finish and World Series matchup against the Dodgers. They dive into key questions for Friday's game and Bo Bichette's role. Next, Raptors GM Bobby Webster (23:23) shares insights on the upcoming season, current Blue Jays vibes, team expectations in the Eastern Conference, and a fun take on a Raptors media game. They wrap up with their thoughts on the Raptors' season ahead.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Maple Leafs Question Marks with Luke Fox + Will Bo Bichette Play in the World Series?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2025 50:12


    Ben and Brent continue into the second hour with a look at John Schneider's comments yesterday about Bo Bichette potentially being on the Blue Jays World Series roster. They question how his presences changes this lineup, who would be the odd man out, and if he's more likely to DH or return to shortstop. The guys also take some time to share what they learned about the Blue Jays in the ALCS that can carry over to their upcoming series with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Later, Sportsnet's Luke Fox (28:22) checks in on the Maple Leafs following last night's 5-2 loss. They chat about how to best align the top line, Auston Matthews' early season production, the identity of this team, and what in the world is going on with Easton Cowan.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.

    Leafs Lose in Listless Effort + Raptors Season Gets Underway

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2025 48:49


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off Wednesday morning by recapping the Maple Leafs' disappointing loss to the New Jersey Devils last night. They dive into the team's lack of response after Anthony Stolarz' comments on Saturday night, thoughts on the top line, and the group's overall lack of identity. The guys also chat about Connor McDavid scoring his first goal of the season, and debate if the offseason noise affected his start at all. Later, Ben and Brent tee up the Toronto Raptors season which tips off tonight against the Atlanta Hawks. They discuss some fair expectations for the team, the keys to success early on, and Brandon Ingram's All-Star potential.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.

    Pat Borders, Buck Martinez, & Adnan Virk on the World Series Bound Jays

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2025 45:15


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off the final hour with 1992 World Series MVP Pat Borders, discussing his thoughts on Game 7 and the team's season. Borders shares insights on similarities between this team and the '92 squad, the city's energy, and which teammate might famously ride a horse shirtless in Toronto. They then chat with Blue Jays legend Buck Martinez about how the 2025 team reached the World Series, Springer's memorable home run, and John Schneider's performance. Finally, MLB Network's Adnan Virk (22:13) joins to reflect on the team's journey and their potential fan appeal, while crediting the front office. Ben and Brent wrap up the day's highlights!The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Springer's Legacy-Cementing Moment with Shi Davidi

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2025 49:20


    Ben and Brent roll into the second hour with more from the Blue Jays' Game 7 ALCS victory to advance to the World Series. They dive into George Springer's evolving legacy in Toronto, how the rotation might shake out next round, John Schneider's bullpen management down the stretch, and Bo Bichette's potential return. Sportsnet's Shi Davidi (23:15) continues the conversation with thoughts on balancing starters and relievers, lineup questions, and where Springer's home run ranks in the pantheon of Blue Jays history.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.

    32 Years in the Making: Blue Jays World Series Bound

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2025 54:03


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off the morning by recapping the Blue Jays Game 7 victory over the Seattle Mariners to advance to the World Series! They boys break down how the Jays overcame a 3-1 deficit, their level of concern heading into the bottom of the 7th, and George Springer's three-run blast that electrified the city. Where in the pantheon of home runs does this one rank for the team? Ben and Brent also chat about the surprising decision to bring in Eduard Bazardo in that moment, the energy in the city and across the country ahead of a trip to the World Series, and more!The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Game 7 Thoughts with Dan Shulman + Who Throws Out the First Pitch?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2025 45:53


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning discuss the possibilities for tonight's game, pondering if a legend will emerge and whether it'll be a close match or a blowout. They highlight potential unsung heroes and review the bullpen's leverage rankings. The hosts also invite listeners to share thoughts on who should throw out the first pitch. Sportsnet Blue Jays play-by-play commentator Dan Shulman (23:21) joins to share his insights on the team's excitement, bullpens, and the series' competitiveness. He also weighs in on the crowd's energy and who might toss the first pitch.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Teeing Up Game 7 with Jon Morosi

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2025 49:47


    Ben and Brent continue into the second hour teeing up everything ahead of tonight's Game 7 of the ALCS. They discuss how David Ortiz has changed his reputation in this city, who should throw out the ceremonial first pitch, and their expectations with Shane Bieber taking the mound. Jon Morosi (23:00), MLB Network insider, shares his takeaways from last night's game and the series as a whole. Who has been the better team overall? Jon also dives into the decision to put Brendon Little into Friday's game, what to expect the game flow to be tonight, how short of a leash will both starters have, and who has the advantage in the bullpen.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.

    Blue Jays Force Game 7 of the ALCS

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2025 51:42


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off the new week by celebrating the Blue Jays' Game 6 victory over the Mariners in the ALCS to set up a Game 7 tonight in Toronto! They boys get into Trey Yesavage's impressive rookie performance, along with Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s postseason to remember and where it ranks in the history of baseball. They also take time to break down Friday's Game 5 loss including John Schneider's decision to turn to Brendon Little and the health of George Springer after taking a pitch off the knee. Can this lead to a Kirk Gibson type of moment? Later, Ben and Brent turn their attention to the Maple Leafs' weekend with thoughts on Anthony Stolarz fiery comments, what this tells us about the team six games into the season, and if it will ever change.  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.

    Kevin Barker & Eric Hosmer on Blue Jays Evening up the ALCS

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2025 47:15


    Brent Gunning and Daniele Franceschi wrap up the week with Kevin Barker, co-host of ‘Blair & Barker.' They discuss game 4 of the ALCS, including Max Scherzer's performance and John Schneider's decision to rely on him. Kevin also shares his thoughts on Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s impact and Andres Gimenez's importance to the team. They look ahead to Kevin Gausman in game 5. They then welcome 2015 World Series champion Eric Hosmer (26:46), who weighs in on the Blue Jays' playoff journey, his impressions of Scherzer, and Guerrero Jr.'s contributions. He also reflects on the 2015 ALCS against the Jays.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Charles Davis Previews Week 7 + Gausman Takes the Mound in Game 5

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2025 49:23


    Brent and Daniele roll into the second hour by taking the temperature in Toronto after a big Game 4 win for the Blue Jays! How are you feeling after the Jays tied up the ALCS? Charles Davis, NFL on CBS analyst, joins the guys to help set up Week 7 in the NFL. He shares his impressions from the Steelers and Bengals Thursday night clash featuring vintage performances from Joe Flacco and Aaron Rodgers. Charles also dives into the Jaguars' strong start, the Rams' outlook heading into their game in London, and the Patriots' upcoming tilt against the Titans. Later, the guys chat about the Blue Jays unsung hero, Ernie Clement, and how he represents the Toronto sports fan. They also dive into Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s importance down the stretch and how it compares to what Kawhi Leonard did for the Raptors during their 2019 championship run.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Mad Max Rides Again, Blue Jays Win Game 4 & Leafs Keep Rolling

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2025 51:34


    Brent Gunning and Daniele Franceschi kick off Friday morning recapping the Blue Jays' victorious Game 4! The guys dive into Max Scherzer's vintage performance, his argument with John Schneider to stay in the game, and the manager's response to let his pitcher work through trouble. They also take some time to discuss Andrés Giménez' second-straight game with a clutch two-run home run, the level of concern after Bo Naylor's home run, and if momentum has squarely shifted into the Blue Jays corner. Later, Brent and Daniele look at the Toronto Maple Leafs overtime win over the New York Rangers. They share what's stood out from the team's first five games of the year, the reasoning behind Easton Cowan's benching, how the loss of Scott Laughton is manifesting itself further down the lineup, and the likeability of this group.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.

    Game 4 Madness Awaits + Around the NHL with Frank Seravalli

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2025 48:39


    Brent Gunning and Daniele Franceschi kick off Hour three of The FAN Morning Show with Brian Kenny from the MLB Network to discuss the Toronto Blue Jays' big win last night in Game 3, whether Max Scherzer can have one last legacy game, whether the offence can remain hot, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s October to remember and touch on the Dodgers and Brewers series. Later, Frank Seravalli (26:01) joins the show to discuss Lane Hutson's extension with the Montreal Canadiens and a trip around the NHL.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Can Mad Max Be the Road Warrior?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2025 48:38


    Brent and Daniele continue into the second hour with more on the Blue Jays' massive Game 3 victory to narrow Seattle's ALCS lead to 2-1. The boys gauge their confidence level heading into Game 4 tonight, before touching on Max Scherzer's opportunity ahead, how the bullpen might be deployed following the veteran starter, and Jeff Hoffman's limited usage during the postseason so far. Later, Sho Alli (27:30) of Jays Talk discusses the factors behind Toronto's victory last night, how good the move to acquire Shane Bieber looks in hindsight, his expectations for "Mad Max" tonight, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s October to remember, and more!The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Blue Jays' Signature Brand of Baseball Returns

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2025 49:50


    Brent Gunning and Daniele Franceschi open this edition of The FAN Morning Show breaking down the Blue Jays' 13-4 victory in Game 3 of the ALCS. They dive into how the Jays' bats ambushed George Kirby, Shane Bieber's clutch performance after a rough first inning, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s big night at the plate that finished a triple away from the cycle. Later, the guys look at the crowded Toronto sports landscape with the Blue Jays and Maple Leafs on the go and the Raptors nearing the regular season. They share their take on the energy Easton Cowan has brought to the Buds, before looking ahead to the Jays' ALCS schedule for Game 4 and beyond.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.

    Game 3 Tee Up with J.P. Riccardi + NHL Selke Predictions

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2025 49:04


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off hour three of The FAN Morning Show with former Blue Jays General Manager J.P. Riccardi to discuss the Blue Jays being down 0-2 to the Mariners, what to expect in the next two games in Seattle, Cal Raleigh's impressive season and look into the Blue Jays' payroll history. They wrap up the show with their NHL Selke predictions (34:56).The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Leafs Lineup Focus + Bieber on the Bump

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2025 46:55


    Ben and Brent open the second hour with thoughts on the Maple Leafs' performance against the Predators last night. They dive into the blue line's early-season production, what the team can take from the Blue Jays' playbook in 2025, and the new-look depth down the lineup. The boys also chat about Auston Matthews' goal-scoring pace, Easton Cowan's role on the top line, and the state of the first powerplay unit. Later, Ben and Brent set up tonight's massive Game 3 of the ALCS between the Blue Jays and Mariners including Shane Bieber's opportunity to set the team up for success and how to kickstart Toronto's bats on the road.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.

    Leafs Pounce on the Preds + Game 3 on the Horizon

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2025 51:24


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open up today's edition of The FAN Morning Show breaking down the Maple Leafs' 7-4 victory over the Predators to move to 2-2 on the season. They dive into William Nylander's performance after being called out by his coach, Easton Cowan earning the Leafs' player-of-the-game belt, and Auston Matthews' two-goal night. Later, Jensen Lewis (30:00), former MLB pitcher and ViSN analyst, sets the stage ahead of tonight's Game 3 of the ALCS. He focuses in on the importance of Shane Bieber's start, Josh Naylor's sneaky stealing ability, and how the Mariners have been able to shut down the Jays' bats through two games.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.

    Can the Blue Jays Salvage Game 3 of the ALCS?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 14, 2025 46:56


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning close out the final hour of the show with Maddison Shipman to deep dive into what went wrong in Game 2 of the ALCS, her thoughts on how the Mariners have looked so far and whether the Blue Jays can make a comeback down in Seattle. Later, Blake Murphy (22:44) joins Ben and Brent to discuss the questionable umpiring on Monday night, the Blue Jays' offensive woes, the state of the bullpen and whether Toronto can salvage Game 3.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Cowan's Top Line Debut, Jays' Mountain to Climb & Bichette's Future

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 14, 2025 48:54


    Ben and Brent kick off the second hour alongside Gord Stellick, former Maple Leafs General Manager and friend of the show! After sharing his thoughts on the Blue Jays' poor start to the ALCS, Gord weighs in on the Maple Leafs' 3-2 defeat to the Red Wings, Easton Cowan's first impressions on the top line, and what needs to change for this team to get back in the win column. Later, Chris "Mad Dog" Russo (25:15) of Mad Dog Radio and ESPN's First Take, joins the boys to discuss the outlook for the Jays ahead of Game 3, how the Mariners' starters line up for the rest of the ALCS, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. cooling off following his red-hot ALDS, and Bo Bichette's future with the organization.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.

    Blue Jays Fall Behind 0-2 in ALCS + Leafs Early Evaluation

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 14, 2025 51:15


    Ben Ennis and Brent open today's show with thoughts on the Blue Jays' 10-3 loss in Game 2 of the ALCS to the Seattle Mariners. They pair look back on the moments that swung the game in the M's favour and Toronto's missteps along the way, before regrouping to determine how this team can bounce back in Game 3 and beyond. Later, Ben and Brent recap the Maple Leafs' 3-2 Thanksgiving Monday loss at the hands of the Detroit Red Wings. The guys diagnose the team's early issues on display through the first three games and discuss what needs to change to get back to playing winning hockey.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.

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