Podcast appearances and mentions of Ben Cherington

Oneil Cruz came off the bench on Sunday instead of starting after being the Pirates BEST hitter against the Dodgers. The Pirates are facing three former Cy Young winners, with Robbie Ray today. Joe thinks the Pirates may keep Ben Cherington because of injuries.

Hour 3 with Bob Pompeani, Joe Starkey, and Matt Clement: Oneil Cruz came off the bench on Sunday instead of starting after being the Pirates BEST hitter against the Dodgers. Joe thinks the Pirates may keep Ben Cherington because of injuries. Matt doesn't think Don Kelly will be gone and thinks that his job is safe. Joe thinks the Pirates may keep Ben Cherington because of injuries. Matt doesn't think Don Kelly will be gone and thinks that his job is safe.

The Pirates are just hanging around enough to have an opportunity. The Cardinals were a seller but are still ahead of the Pirates and only a few games out. If the Pirates finish below the Cardinals, Joe thinks Ben Cherington's job is on the line. There are still opportunities for the Pirates, but they need to take 2/3 from the Dodgers and beat the Padres in AT LEAST 2/3.

Pirates insider Jason Mackey joined the show. Is the Paul Skenes problem simply come down to a mechanical fix? Is Skenes pushing too hard since he knows things haven't gone well for him this season? The guys asked Jason about how much blame/credit Bill Murphy deserves, and he thinks it's a little bit too much on both sides. Jason thinks the most valid complaint from fans is Skenes being hard against the salary cap in baseball because that doesn't go over well with fans, especially in Pittsburgh. Jason thought the Pirates had a pretty good pitching program in place with Oscar Marin at the helm. The guys credited Andrew McCutchen for being an MVP that loved being part of Pittsburgh and with the Pirates, where as Skenes feels like a hired-gun or a mercenary. Why was Ben Cherington suggesting Skenes was having an ‘excellent' year?

Another labor job for Paul Skenes yesterday in a Pirates win. Poni feels like the public sentiment toward Skenes this year has become very personal and visceral. Is it deserved? Has it gotten as bad as Poni thinks? People are calling in saying he needs to change his diet and dump his girlfriend. Why might the turn be so rotten? The guys pointed out some comments Skenes has made over the course of the season on topics like the World Baseball Classic, the pending work stoppage and his overall performance. The Morning Show was ignored by Curt Schilling today. Calls about Paul Skenes. Pirates insider Jason Mackey joined the show. Is the Paul Skenes problem simply come down to a mechanical fix? Is Skenes pushing too hard since he knows things haven't gone well for him this season? The guys asked Jason about how much blame/credit Bill Murphy deserves, and he thinks it's a little bit too much on both sides. Jason thinks the most valid complaint from fans is Skenes being hard against the salary cap in baseball because that doesn't go over well with fans, especially in Pittsburgh. Jason thought the Pirates had a pretty good pitching program in place with Oscar Marin at the helm. The guys credited Andrew McCutchen for being an MVP that loved being part of Pittsburgh and with the Pirates, where as Skenes feels like a hired-gun or a mercenary. Why was Ben Cherington suggesting Skenes was having an ‘excellent' year?

If Paul Skenes pitches poorly and the Pirates lose, Jason thinks there's a chance he's shut down. Ben Cherington said Skenes has been excellent, and Skenes is still top 10 in pitcher WAR, but Jason doesn't think it's been a terrible season. Jason wishes Braxton Ashcraft would have had another complete game. Jason believes Konnor Griffin will be back when eligible on Sept. 4.

Hour 2 with Bob Pompeani and Joe Starkey: If Paul Skenes pitches poorly and the Pirates lose, Jason Mackey thinks there's a chance he's shut down. He thinks it would be tough for the Pirates to keep Ben Cherington if they finish last. Could the Steelers trade Mason Rudolph? McCarthy said he knows what he has in Rudolph, and maybe that means he gets traded.

Hour 3 with Bob Pompeani and Joe Starkey: Ben Cherington said Sunday it has been an excellent year for Paul Skenes. The Pirates are 3-13 in Skenes' last 16 starts. This whole situation is strange. MLB analyst Matt Clement joined the show. Matt said Skenes is not going to come out and say he is fatigued or hurt because he wants to right what he's done wrong. Najee Harris is visiting the Giants. Aaron Donald tried out for the Rams.

Ben Cherington said Sunday it has been an excellent year for Paul Skenes. The Pirates are 3-13 in Skenes' last 16 starts. This whole situation is strange. MLB analyst Matt Clement joined the show. Matt said Skenes is not going to come out and say he is fatigued or hurt because he wants to right what he's done wrong. Matt thinks bad mechanics lead to arm fatigue, which can cause injury.

93.7 The Fan MLB analyst Matt Clement joined the show. Matt thought the verbiage was odd from Ben Cherington in his weekly hit when talking about Paul Skenes. Matt explained why he doesn't think Skenes is playing through injury. Matt believes it's a mechanical issue that the Pirates are working on with Skenes which explains the reason for a few extra days off. Matt said Skenes has to get back to a north-south approach instead of east-west because that is the noticeable change in his delivery. Matt thinks Skenes will return to form at some point, but can't promise that it's this year. Matt doesn't think Skenes is out of shape. What did Matt do during his off days in Miami? Matt said he regrets not enjoying himself more during the free time of his baseball career.

The next Paul Skenes start is now Wednesday, after it was pushed back from this weekend. Alright, what is going on here? The Pirates are still acting like it's no big deal and they are just giving their ace a few more days. The GM says Skenes is having an excellent season. Is Skenes being humbled this year? A few former pitchers have now pointed out some mechanical issues. 93.7 The Fan MLB analyst Matt Clement joined the show. Matt thought the verbiage was odd from Ben Cherington in his weekly hit when talking about Paul Skenes. Matt explained why he doesn't think Skenes is playing through injury. Matt believes it's a mechanical issue that the Pirates are working on with Skenes which explains the reason for a few extra days off. Matt said Skenes has to get back to a north-south approach instead of east-west because that is the noticeable change in his delivery. Matt thinks Skenes will return to form at some point, but can't promise that it's this year. Matt doesn't think Skenes is out of shape. What did Matt do during his off days in Miami? Matt said he regrets not enjoying himself more during the free time of his baseball career.

Hour 4: Poni reveals a Ben Cherington rumor that someone texted him earlier today. Jason Mackey joins the show to go through the latest news with the Pirates and Paul Skenes. And are there too many movie remakes these days?

Hour 1: The guys react to Drew Allar's Steelers debut last night. Who will be the Steelers' starting QB in 2027 now? And Nick Farabaugh joins the show to break down yesterday's preseason game. Hour 2: Is it time for the Steelers to move on now from Mason Rudolph? Was Aaron Rodgers almost forced to play in last night's preseason game? Dom details his Acrisure Stadium experience yesterday with “Harry” Callas. And Dom says everyone is embarrassing themselves with their Drew Allar hype. Hour 3: Mark Kaboly joins the show in-studio for the full hour! Poni shares a crazy Kevin Costner story. Could Drew Allar start games for the Steelers this season? And are the Steelers trying to cleanse themselves of Mike Tomlin? Hour 4: Poni reveals a Ben Cherington rumor that someone texted him earlier today. Jason Mackey joins the show to go through the latest news with the Pirates and Paul Skenes. And are there too many movie remakes these days?

How safe is Ben Cherington's job going into next year? A text Poni received sheds light on the surprising answer.

Gabe successfully moved the guys indoors. Matt Clement joins to discuss Limits wiffleball expedition, the rough series vs the Mets, Jones's struggles, the team's lack of fundamentals, if Cherington would be back.

The Pirates season is all but over. Just one week following the 2026 MLB Trade Deadline when the Pirates took a stand as one of the only outside teams in the NL taking a shot, their season is on life support – and that's being generous. They are 5+ games out of a playoff spot as of today and just dropped 2 of 3 to the hapless New York Mets this weekend, who sold off most of their pitching staff in the last 2 weeks. What went wrong? Plenty can fall on Don Kelly and Ben Cherington, but should a fair amount get put at the feet of Paul Skenes, in the midst of a bad season? How is the Oscar Marin firing looking right about now? Unless a huge run begins tomorrow, we won't be talking about them as playoff contenders much longer. It will soon be 7 years without a playoff appearance. What will the repercussions be for the front office?

PG columnist Noah Hiles joined the show. Noah has no idea what will happen at the end of this season if the Pirates yet again finish in last place. Noah suggested changes should be coming if we listen to what the front office said going into 2026. Noah thinks drafting and development has been a little bit better in the last few years, but it shouldn't be enough to save Ben Cherington his job. How much of the blame with pitching goes on Bill Murphy versus the players themselves? How much blame does Paul Skenes deserve for how this season has gone? Noah told us that Bob Nutting thinks ‘incredibly highly' of Don Kelly, but didn't have a real reason why.

The cynics were right yet again. The local publications are calling out the Pirates, as are we. They did it again. ‘Collapsing is what they do best' was a line from a Post-Gazette column from Noah Hiles today. Should we be upset by how they approached the trade deadline? PG columnist Noah Hiles joined the show. Noah has no idea what will happen at the end of this season if the Pirates yet again finish in last place. Noah suggested changes should be coming if we listen to what the front office said going into 2026. Noah thinks drafting and development has been a little bit better in the last few years, but it shouldn't be enough to save Ben Cherington his job. How much of the blame with pitching goes on Bill Murphy versus the players themselves? How much blame does Paul Skenes deserve for how this season has gone? Noah told us that Bob Nutting thinks ‘incredibly highly' of Don Kelly, but didn't have a real reason why. Black & Gold Auction House – Round 1, 2026.

The Pirates season is all but over. Just one week following the 2026 MLB Trade Deadline when the Pirates took a stand as one of the only outside teams in the NL taking a shot, their season is on life support – and that's being generous. They are 5+ games out of a playoff spot as of today and just dropped 2 of 3 to the hapless New York Mets this weekend, who sold off most of their pitching staff in the last 2 weeks. What went wrong? Plenty can fall on Don Kelly and Ben Cherington, but should a fair amount get put at the feet of Paul Skenes, in the midst of a bad season? How is the Oscar Marin firing looking right about now? Unless a huge run begins tomorrow, we won't be talking about them as playoff contenders much longer. It will soon be 7 years without a playoff appearance. What will the repercussions be for the front office? Yesterday may have been the most embarrassing loss of the 2026 season. WTOV's Jack Hillgrove joined the show. Jack has a hard time believing the Steelers will keep 4 QBs on their roster and cited other position groups that could use help ahead of the regular season, like safety and receiver. He doesn't think we will see Aaron Rodgers on Thursday despite what Mike McCarthy has said. After McCarthy announced pre-practice that Max Iheanachor would not practice today, everyone in attendance saw him doing things in a limited capacity today. Jack said an injury to Eli Heidenreich could save the job of Kaleb Johnson, but he wouldn't be surprised if the 3rd round pick from 2025 was cut by the end of camp. Does Travis Homer have a home because of his special team's prowess? Jack said McCarthy is not as transparent with injured players as Mike Tomlin was. Jack doesn't think anything from Malik Harrison has jumped off the page in camp as a player who is likely on the cut line. Jack explained why he is excited about what Patrick Graham brings to the table.

Joe doesn't like some of the YouTube comments. Are there any Pirates fans still feeling optimistic? Is Luke Weaver ever going to pitch? When is Cruz coming back? Joe blames Cherington (Nutting), and Skenes. Callers aren't happy about Bill Murphy. A caller questions the analytics factor in Skenes performance.  The Pirates have a built-in excuse now with their injuries. Somehow the bullpen has become the strength. We revisit ghosts and Josh Harrison. 

The Pirates have a built-in excuse now with their injuries. Somehow the bullpen has become the strength. We revisit ghosts and Josh Harrison. 

Fill-in host Donny "Football" Chedrick reacts to Pirates' general manager Ben Cherington talking about when he expects CF Oneil Cruz to return from the IL.

The 2026 MLB Trade Deadline arrives Monday at 6:00 p.m. ET, and North Shore Nine will be live beginning at 5:30 to watch the final minutes unfold. The Pirates have already acquired former All-Star closer Camilo Doval, but will Ben Cherington make another move before time expires? We'll react to any last-minute trades, break down everything Pittsburgh did and determine whether the Pirates did enough to improve their playoff chances. Join the conversation and give us your final grade for the Pirates' deadline. @eddiep_photos Download our app! : https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-shore-nine/id6771171000 : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.northshorenine.app Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m #pittsburghpirates Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Alex Stumpf and Colin Beazley have both confirmed the Pirates have released Marcell Ozuna. How would you grade how Ben Cherington has done? The Brandon Lowe and Ryan O'Hearn additions have been significant. Signing Ozuna was a bad decision and Joe thinks Cherington's drafts the last few years saved his job. Is Ozuna the worst free agent signing in Pittsburgh sports history?

Hour 1 with Bob Pompeani and Joe Starkey: The Pirates offense is struggling. Injuries are an issue, but guys you are counting on are hitting the wall. Esmerlyn Valdez is 0-12 in August with eight strikeouts. Ronnie Simon has been recalled from Triple-A. Could this be the end of the road for Marcell Ozuna? Alex Stumpf and Colin Beazley have both confirmed the Pirates have released Marcell Ozuna. How would you grade how Ben Cherington has done?

In this hour, Adam Crowley and Nicholas "Harry" Callas react to the moves the Pirates made at the MLB deadline on Monday. August 4, 2026, 6:00 Hour

Ben Cherington said after the trade deadline yesterday that the Pirates looked around for bats or position players, but didn't come to an agreement or find a deal that they liked. Poni says that he still thinks the day as a whole was a win for the team. Joel Nesbitt said that the Pirates should have made a trade for a right-handed bat to make the day perfect, which the guys agree with.

Pirates pre-post game host Dan Zangrilli joined the show. What happened with the caller last night that told Dan he was too ‘long-winded.' Dan shot down the idea of the Pirates signing Andrew McCutchen to a minor league deal. Dan had his doubts that Cutch was as close with the rest of the clubhouse as people assumed. Dan believes the Pirates will still have Mason Montgomery close games with Luke Weaver as the setup man. How do the 6th and 7th inning guys line up? Dan loved that last night's game was won in the 6th inning because the Pirates had an additional, effective bullpen arm – the others weren't even there yet. Dan thinks Evan Sisk will slot in when he comes back because they will need another arm from the left side. Dan doesn't think yesterday told us much about the future for Ben Cherington as the team's GM.

Ben Cherington said after the trade deadline yesterday that the Pirates looked around for bats or position players, but didn't come to an agreement or find a deal that they liked. Poni says that he still thinks the day as a whole was a win for the team. Joel Nesbitt said that the Pirates should have made a trade for a right-handed bat to make the day perfect, which the guys agree with. Jack Hillgrove from WTOV joined the show. Jack says that the story of the day at camp was chippy-ness. He said that Sebastian Joseph-Day and Mason McCormick go into a scuffle, and so did DK Metcalf and Keeanu Benton, somehow. Hillgrove says that it is going to be an uphill battle for Max Iheanachor to start week 1, as Dylan Cook has looked good so far in camp. PM Team Draft – Best wide receivers of all time.

The reinforcements will be in the building tonight for the Pirates. Will tonight be the first time we see Luke Weaver in a Pirates uniform? Kirby Yates and Lake Bachar will also be in the bullpen. Who are going to be the guys getting cut loose or sent down? Pirates pre-post game host Dan Zangrilli joined the show. What happened with the caller last night that told Dan he was too ‘long-winded.' Dan shot down the idea of the Pirates signing Andrew McCutchen to a minor league deal. Dan had his doubts that Cutch was as close with the rest of the clubhouse as people assumed. Dan believes the Pirates will still have Mason Montgomery close games with Luke Weaver as the setup man. How do the 6th and 7th inning guys line up? Dan loved that last night's game was won in the 6th inning because the Pirates had an additional, effective bullpen arm – the others weren't even there yet. Dan thinks Evan Sisk will slot in when he comes back because they will need another arm from the left side. Dan doesn't think yesterday told us much about the future for Ben Cherington as the team's GM. Name Game.

The Pittsburgh Pirates waited until the final hours of the MLB trade deadline before completely overhauling their bullpen. DiNardo, Tyler and Jim react live to the additions of Luke Weaver, Kirby Yates and Lake Bachar, joining the recently acquired Camilo Doval. They break down what each reliever brings, the surprisingly light prospect cost and how the new-look bullpen could be deployed down the stretch. The Pirates undoubtedly improved, but did Ben Cherington do enough? No hitter was added to address the team's struggles against left-handed pitching, no starting pitcher arrived and the news of Mitch Keller's season-ending injury dropped during the show. The crew grades the deadline and discusses whether these moves can push the Pirates into the postseason. Download our app! : https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-shore-nine/id6771171000 : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.northshorenine.app Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m #pittsburghpirates Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pirates are 5-10 since the All-Star Game. They are in the range of teams that should sell. This is depressing. The Yankees got Luis Garcia, the Dodgers acquired Skubal, and the Phillies traded for Luis Arraez. Joe doesn't think Ben Cherington will make a big move. 

Joe said logically the Pirates should sell but our hearts wants them to buy! BUY OR SELL? Joe thinks the biggest story in Pittsburgh sports today is the sudden decline of Paul Skenes. Joe thinks it's best to trade Brandon Lowe and try to trade Mitch Keller. Ben Cherington's job may be on the line. The Pirates have put them in a difficult spot.

The Guardians only gave up the 17th best prospect for Jo Adell. The returns have not been substantial for players. Where are the Pirates? Ben Cherington is not being aggressive. Bob and Austin think there is a 25% chance they make the playoffs. Matt thinks 18% but Joe thinks 2%. The Cubs and Phillies are making significant moves.

The Pirates closed a disastrous series in Cincinnati with a 9-1 loss, dropping three of four to the Reds and five of their last six games overall. Mitch Keller lasted just two innings and allowed seven earned runs, while the Pirates recorded only four hits and struck out 13 times against Chase Burns and the Cincinnati bullpen. Camilo Doval also surrendered a home run during his Pirates debut. With Pittsburgh falling below .500 and losing ground in the Wild Card race, the pressure is now on Ben Cherington to significantly improve this roster before Monday's 6 PM ET MLB Trade Deadline. North Shore Nine will be live Monday at 5:30 PM ET to cover the final moves before the deadline. Download our app! : https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-shore-nine/id6771171000 : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.northshorenine.app Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m #pittsburghpirates Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pirates' bullpen suffered its 23rd loss of the season Thursday night, leaving the team with more bullpen losses than saves. Alex Stumpf explains why the problem goes beyond one Gregory Soto blown save and why Pittsburgh desperately needs an established late-inning reliever before Monday's trade deadline. Could Kansas City left-hander Daniel Lynch IV be an option? Alex discusses the recent scouting connection between the Pirates and Royals, additional relievers Pittsburgh could target and why this season presents an opportunity Ben Cherington cannot afford to waste. Subscribe to Alex's Book-Rule Bucs Substack: https://bookrulebucs.substack.com/ Download our app! : https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-shore-nine/id6771171000 : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.northshorenine.app Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ZY250XUYiS-yX7xOQCdLA/join Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m #pittsburghpirates Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pirates are buyers at the 2026 MLB Trade Deadline, but how aggressive should Ben Cherington be? DiNardo, Tyler, and Jim rank the available bullpen arms, debate the best platoon bats for a lineup that struggles against left-handed pitching, examine the starting-pitcher market and build three mock trades centered on Kirby Yates, Lane Thomas, Luke Weaver and AJ Minter. Can the Pirates fix their bullpen without gutting the farm system? Is Lane Thomas the right fit? Should Carmen Mlodzinski be included in a blockbuster deal with the Mets? Which prospects should be off limits? Subscribe to North Shore Nine for complete Pittsburgh Pirates coverage throughout the trade deadline and the playoff race. Download our app! : https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-shore-nine/id6771171000 : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.northshorenine.app Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hour 1: Chris and Donny are live at Casino Pittsburgh today! Why was Carmen Mlodzinski used in the Pirates' loss yesterday? Chris reveals he is the president of his HOA. And Jason Mackey joins the show to preview the Pirates' next moves before the deadline.

The Pirates erased a six-run deficit and forced extra innings Tuesday, but the loss to Arizona still felt like another missed opportunity during their biggest homestand in years. Alex Stumpf breaks down the continued growth of Bubba Chandler, a strong showing from the bullpen, the importance of securing a tiebreaker over the Diamondbacks and why this team has the pieces to make noise in the postseason. He also explains why Ben Cherington still needs to add multiple relievers before the trade deadline. Subscribe to Book Rule Bucs: https://bookrulebucs.substack.com/ Subscribe to North Shore Nine for daily Pittsburgh Pirates coverage. Download our app! : https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-shore-nine/id6771171000 : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.northshorenine.app Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ZY250XUYiS-yX7xOQCdLA/join Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m #pittsburghpirates Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welcome to Episode 179 of Tablesetters! Today's guest is DiNardo of North Shore Nine, one of the most respected independent voices covering the Pittsburgh Pirates. We first welcomed DiNardo back on Episode 44 in December 2024, and with Pittsburgh sitting right in the middle of the National League Wild Card race as the trade deadline approaches, there was no better time to catch up. For nearly a decade, Anthony has helped grow North Shore Nine from a fan blog into one of the premier destinations for Pirates coverage, featuring podcasts, postgame shows, prospect analysis, videos and in-depth reporting. We begin by looking back on North Shore Nine's recent 10-year anniversary before turning our attention to one of baseball's biggest surprise teams. We discuss how the Pirates have transformed last year's lowest-scoring offense into one of the best in baseball, leading the majors in hits while ranking among the National League leaders in runs scored, RBI, batting average and home runs. We also examine whether seven blown late leads are the only thing standing between Pittsburgh and a playoff spot, or if they expose larger roster issues that still need to be addressed. From there, we dive into the biggest storylines surrounding the club, including Ben Cherington's deadline strategy, reports surrounding payroll, the possibility of listening to offers for Oneil Cruz, and why the bullpen remains the organization's biggest priority as the stretch run begins. Plus: North Shore Nine's 10-year anniversary and how the platform has evolved Esmerlyn Valdez's remarkable breakout and whether he's becoming a long-term cornerstone The impact of Konnor Griffin's injury and why reinforcements could still be on the way Paul Skenes, Braxton Ashcraft, Jared Jones, Bubba Chandler and the outlook for Pittsburgh's rotation Jacob Gonzalez, Spencer Horwitz, Tyler Callihan and the organization's ability to continue developing internal contributors Don Kelly's impact on the clubhouse and why this Pirates team feels different from recent seasons What this season has revealed about the direction of the franchise and whether expectations have permanently changed Before we wrap up, DiNardo reflects on what's next for North Shore Nine, shares his outlook on the trade deadline and gives his prediction for how the Pirates' postseason chase will unfold. Follow us on Instagram and X @TablesettersPod for bonus content, updates and more. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and join us every week. Tablesetters is where stories shape the season.

Are the Pirates too timid to get over the hump this year? Jared Jones still isn't allowed to get deep into games. Ben Cherington had a comment on the situation. This feels like 2024 all over again. A caller wants to trade Keller for Luke Weaver. Do the Pirates need to trade an elite prospect to get a good reliever?  Jared Jones was pulled too early on Friday. A caller asks about Cruz's offense vs his defensive issues. We miss the waiver trades. 

Are the Pirates too timid to get over the hump this year? Jared Jones still isn't allowed to get deep into games. Ben Cherington had a comment on the situation. This feels like 2024 all over again. A caller wants to trade Keller for Luke Weaver. Do the Pirates need to trade an elite prospect to get a good reliever? Jared Jones was pulled too early on Friday. A caller asks about Cruz's offense vs his defensive issues. We miss the waiver trades. Ozuna stinks again. Shota Imanaga continued to own the Bucs. The Pirates really struggle vs lefties. It could be their undoing if they make the playoffs. Could Mlodzinski be a trade chip to get bullpen help? More callers weigh in, one of whom defends Cherington. It's Steelers training camp week. Is there way less excitement this year than previous years? How much does Tomln being gone play a factor? Matt Clement joins to discuss Jared Jones early exit, should he be compared to Spencer Strider. if he'd trade Mlodzinski, reacting to Cherington's comment about acquiring a rental, the finances of acquiring a player, do the Pirates need to get a proven vet for the bullpen. Shawn Ross was an unlikely hero yesterday. Matt Clement gives his thoughts about intentionally walking PCA on Friday, does the clubhouse need to see the Pirates make some big acquisitions? Seth Hernandez is heading to the injured list. A caller asks a Steelers question that Matt answers. How should we evaluate Skenes as of late? A caller gives his thoughts about Skenes. Could the Brewers get Miller or Skubal? Who does Matt want to see the Pirates target? A caller asks about trading Oneil Cruz, is Skenes being forced into being the veteran of the rotation, is Mark Vientos a possibility?

Are the Pirates too timid to get over the hump this year? Jared Jones still isn't allowed to get deep into games. Ben Cherington had a comment on the situation. This feels like 2024 all over again. A caller wants to trade Keller for Luke Weaver. Do the Pirates need to trade an elite prospect to get a good reliever?

With the poor state the Pirates' bullpen has been in all season, Adam Crowley and Dorin Dickerson wonder how it looks compared to other bullpens the team has had since Ben Cherington has been the GM.

How should Ben Cherington approach the trade deadline? He said yesterday that you should do everything in your power to win games if you have the chance to compete. This leads the listener to believe that Pirates will be heavy buyers at the trade deadline. Mullsy believes that this quote from Ben Cherington is a straight up statement of his intentions for this trade deadline. Donny Football Debrief – It has truly been a very wacky last week around the NFL. Pirates reporter Colin Beazley from the PG joined the show. Colin confirms that the Pirates want to add players at the deadline that will help them win games this year. Colin also says that he has had multiple people come to him and say they would love to have Mason Miller, but he highly doubts the Pirates actually make a move for him. Colin is not sure that the Pirates will actually get an opportunity to trade Marcell Ozuna.

Ben Cherington said yesterday that the Pirates have the resources to be playing games in October this year. He also said that it is clear what they want to do at the deadline. Both of these things would certainly make somebody think that the Pirates are going to be buyers at the trade deadline. Mullsy thinks that Mason Montgomery is the Pirates closer at this point, but they need to surround him with other bullpen arms if they want to compete. Mullsy thinks that the Pirates should really only think about trying to win games this year, as there might not even be a season next year. Callers chime in on the Pirates deadline plans. Bucco Auction House – Bids on Braxton Ashcraft, Mason Montgomery, and Ryan O'Hearn ensue.

The Pirates salvaged the series against the Cubs with a win yesterday, crushing former Bucco Jameson Taillon. Do they have another need when it comes to a right-handed bat? The only power bat they have from the right side (that isn't a switch hitter) is Esmerlyn Valdez. It would be a lot different if Marcell Ozuna got it going, but we have waited long enough for that. After being dominated by lefties on back-to-back nights this weekend, is a right-handed bat in their future? Just how good has Esmerlyn Valdez been against lefties this year in comparison to the rest of the team? Cherington Chatter – What were some big takeaways from Ben Cherington yesterday?

Ben Cherington said yesterday that the Pirates have the resources to be playing games in October this year. He also said that it is clear what they want to do at the deadline. Both of these things would certainly make somebody think that the Pirates are going to be buyers at the trade deadline. Mullsy thinks that Mason Montgomery is the Pirates closer at this point, but they need to surround him with other bullpen arms if they want to compete. Mullsy thinks that the Pirates should really only think about trying to win games this year, as there might not even be a season next year.

The Pittsburgh Pirates were humiliated 11-0 by the Chicago Cubs in front of their largest crowd of the season. Shota Imanaga shut down the lineup again, while Paul Skenes struck out 11 and generated 22 swings and misses but was still charged with five earned runs. The NS9 Postgame Show breaks down the Pirates' continued problems against left handed pitching, Skenes' misleading final line, the performances from Isaac Mattson and Ron Marinaccio, and why Ben Cherington must add multiple relievers before the trade deadline. Presented by FanDuel. The NS9 Postgame Show is powered by Primanti Brothers. Subscribe for Pittsburgh Pirates coverage throughout the entire season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pittsburgh Pirates finally moved on from Dennis Santana, designating the struggling reliever for assignment while acquiring Ron Marinaccio from the San Diego Padres for $500,000 in international bonus pool space. It is a necessary bullpen change, but it cannot be Ben Cherington's final move before the MLB trade deadline. DiNardo and Tyler break down what the Pirates might see in Marinaccio, whether Pittsburgh can still be trusted to fix struggling pitchers, and why the decision to trade David Bednar looks even worse now. The guys also put the Pirates' difficult stretch into perspective. Despite several frustrating losses and an unreliable bullpen, Pittsburgh is 7 and 5 against the Braves, Brewers, Guardians and Yankees while remaining firmly in the National League Wild Card race. Plus, Spencer Horwitz is nearing a return, the roster decision that could follow, and a preview of an important home series against the Chicago Cubs. @eddiep_photos Download our app! : https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-shore-nine/id6771171000 : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.northshorenine.app Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m #pittsburghpirates ️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4776784802611200 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.