Podcast appearances and mentions of Ben Cherington

The 2025 Pittsburgh Pirates season has officially come to a close — and NS9LIVE! is here to break it all down. Don Kelly is back, Ben Cherington is back, but Oscar Marin, Mike Rabelo, and Brent Strom are all out. We dive into what those changes mean for the organization moving forward, plus revisit our preseason predictions to see how right (or wrong) we were. The crew also reflects on the highs, lows, and frustrations of the season while reviewing their Over/Under Predictions heading into this season to see how they fared and who came out victorious. Catch the full breakdown, the banter, and the therapy session every Pirates fan needs right now. Watch the full episode and subscribe for more Pirates talk all offseason long. Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NS9 for 30% off your first order at https://www.gritily.com 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 ►BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/northshorenine.bsky.social Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Adam Crowley and Dorin Dickerson wonder what Pirates' GM Ben Cherington has done to warrant his return for the 2026 season.

Jason Mackey, PG Pirates writer joined the show. He thinks the Pirates payroll will be around $90 million. He was surprised that Ben Cherington was retained. The Pirates want to get rid of Mitch Keller because he's not good enough to justify his salary. Jason reports Oscar Marin was fired because of what Pirates pitchers said about him in player exit interviews. Mackey believes Andrew McCutchen has played his last game with the Pirates.

Dan was somewhat surprised the Pirates moved on from Oscar Marin. It's hard to justify why Ben Cherington is back. Dan thinks there will be more money flowing throughout the sport for other franchises with a cap and floor. He doesn't believe the Pirates have the revenue for a $120 million payroll.

The Pirates are keeping Ben Cherington and Don Kelly. Bob wanted the Pirates to move on from Cherington and was surprised that he stayed. Bob wants to see the Pirates sign Pete Alonso. The Pirates are moving on from Oscar Marin, Brent Strom, and Mike Rabello. Why are the Pirates moving on from their pitching coach??

Hour 2 with Bob Pompeani: The Pirates are keeping Ben Cherington and Don Kelly. Bob wanted the Pirates to move on from Cherington and was surprised that he stayed. Bob wants to see the Pirates sign Pete Alonso. The Pirates are moving on from Oscar Marin, Brent Strom, and Mike Rabello. Pirates fans are irritated that the Pirates are keeping members of the front office that have put this 71-win team together.

Former MLB pitcher Matt Clement joined the show. Matt reacted to the end of the Pirates season and some of the changes they have made. Matt gave his thoughts on the return of Ben Cherington for 2026. He thinks it is ‘inevitable' that the team trades Mitch Keller to get some offense on this roster. Chris had Matt react to some of the comments from Travis Williams with the media. Matt posed a good question back to Chris about big market versus small market in Major League Baseball.

The Pirates parted ways with a few coaches yesterday, including Oscar Marin, who was the leader of one of the best pitching staffs in baseball. Should Matt Hague be safe as the hitting coach after a historically bad offensive year? The guys wondered if there was something behind the scenes with Marin and if he didn't get the support of Paul Skenes or other guys on the staff. The Fan vs The Fans. Former MLB pitcher Matt Clement joined the show. Matt reacted to the end of the Pirates season and some of the changes they have made. Matt gave his thoughts on the return of Ben Cherington for 2026. He thinks it is ‘inevitable' that the team trades Mitch Keller to get some offense on this roster. Chris had Matt react to some of the comments from Travis Williams with the media. Matt posed a good question back to Chris about big market versus small market in Major League Baseball.

Bob Nutting called this full season unacceptable, but is bringing back Travis Williams and Ben Cherington. Noah doesn't understand how Cherington and Williams are back. Multiple players were outspoken about the team and players went out of their way to let him know how bad things went. Noah thinks the Pirates will trade Mitch Keller and likely be an underwhelming return.

The Pirates are bringing back manager Don Kelly and general manager Ben Cherington. Cherington is 365-505 as Pirates GM. Cherington finished in last place in Boston every season except the season they won the World Series. The Pirates were worse this year than the last two seasons. They haven't shown enough to give fans hope.

Pirates President Travis Wiliams said the Pirates are dedicated to make the playoffs, "Period. Full stop." He said they have the best young pitching staff in baseball.  The Pirates offense needs significant additions to be close to winning. Williams said the historically bad offensive season can be taken care of.

Hour 4 with Donny Football: Pirates President Travis Wiliams said the Pirates are dedicated to make the playoffs, "Period. Full stop." He said they have the best young pitching staff in baseball. The Pirates offense is not close to being good enough to win. Recapping our Pirates record predictions. Donny and Austin make their World Series picks.

Hour 3 with Donny Football: Bob Nutting called this full season unacceptable, but is bringing back Travis Williams and Ben Cherington. Noah doesn't understand how these guys are back. Multiple players were outspoken about the team and players went out of their way to let him know how bad things went. Noah thinks the Pirates will trade Mitch Keller and likely be an underwhelming return. Bengals lose and are in trouble of falling apart with their quarterback play with Jake Browning.

Hour 1 with Donny Football: The Pirates are bringing back manager Don Kelly and general manager Ben Cherington. He is 365-505 as Pirates GM. Pirates fans weigh in and voice their frustration with Ben Cherington coming back.

In this hour, Dorin Dickerson reacts to comments made by Pirates' general manager Ben Cherington regarding the team's approach heading into 2026. Also, Noah Hiles from The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette comes on The Fan Hotline. September 30, 2025, 8:00 Hour

The Pirates are running it back with Ben Cherington as GM, but don't worry, Travis Williams told the media yesterday that they are building a playoff team for 2026. Period – full stop. The front office is making claims of ‘momentum' going into next season. How? The Pirates have a good, young pitching staff – that is a fact. The offense was historically bad and it is the 6th year of a regime. Derek Shelton was the scapegoat, even though he was not good in his role, he was part of the issue.

Ben Cherington will be back in 2026. Why? He tried explaining to the media what his plan is for his 7th year as the team's GM. They are telling us they have the resources to win, but why would we believe them?

The Pirates are running it back with Ben Cherington as GM, but don't worry, Travis Williams told the media yesterday that they are building a playoff team for 2026. Period – full stop. The front office is making claims of ‘momentum' going into next season. How? The Pirates have a good, young pitching staff – that is a fact. The offense was historically bad and it is the 6th year of a regime. Derek Shelton was the scapegoat, even though he was not good in his role, he was part of the issue. Some calls on the Pirates following the 2025 season with plans to bring back the same GM they've seen fail for the last 6 years. Pirates pre-post game host Dan Zangrilli joined the show. Dan said the benefit of the doubt has not been earned by the Pirates. Dan senses that the lockout in 2027 is a real thing that could bring big change to baseball. Dan defended the Pirates keeping the front office together because it could be tough to put someone in a one-year window with a lockout looming. Dan thinks 2026 is ‘it' for the entire front office, outside of the owner. Dan expects the Pirates to be more aggressive and spend more money. Do the Pirates have a ‘young core' of hitters? Dan believes we will see some coaching staff changes in the coming days/weeks.

Ben Cherington will be back in 2026. Why? He tried explaining to the media what his plan is for his 7th year as the team's GM. They are telling us they have the resources to win, but why would we believe them? Calls on the Pirates retaining Ben Cherington for Year 7. Donny Football Debrief – A gruesome injury for Tyreek Hill on MNF. What could the Steelers WR options be if they become a contender? Could Jakobi Meyers be revisited?

Today, Don Kelly and the Pittsburgh Pirates agreed to an extension bringing him back as the skipper of the 2026 Pirates. It was also announced immediately after his press conference that General Manager Ben Cherington has been reassured that he will return for the 2026 season. Seems like not much change is happening among the front office immediately after the Pirates finished with 91 losses. Thoughts? The NS9 Postgame Show Powered By Primanti Bros. discuss today's Pittsburgh Pirates game vs. the Chicago Cubs Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NS9 for 30% off your first order at https://www.gritily.com 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 ►BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/northshorenine.bsky.social Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bucco Brew Powered by De Fer Coffee & Tea. The North Shore Nine crew dives into the Post-Gazette's hard-hitting story on the Pirates' frustrating 2025 season—spotlighting Paul Skenes' pointed comments, Bob Nutting's ownership decisions, and the growing calls for Ben Cherington's job. We break down the best quotes and what they mean for the front office, the clubhouse, and the future of the franchise. To lighten things up, we also take on Alex Stumpf's year-end Sporcle challenge, trying to name all 57 Pirates who suited up this season—with plenty of laughs and a few surprises along the way. Noah Hiles' article: https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/pirates/2025/09/29/mlb-pirates-bob-nutting-ben-cherington-paul-skenes-andrew-mccutchen/stories/202509290003 Presented by Fanduel Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NS9 for 30% off your first order at https://www.gritily.com 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.myspreadshop.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 ►BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/northshorenine.bsky.social Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hour 4 with Donny Football: Don Kelly AND Ben Cherington will speak to the media at 3:30 p.m. This makes us believe Cherington will be here next year. Bob Nutting said this season was "unacceptable." Why is Cherington going to stay?? Greg in Youngstown is irritated the Cleveland Guardians also can't hit but got hot at the right time and made the postseason. The Pirates are keeping Don Kelly and likely Ben Cherington. Will they finally add offense?

Don Kelly AND Ben Cherington will speak to the media at 3:30 p.m. This makes us believe Cherington will be here next year. Bob Nutting said this season was "unacceptable." Will Ben Cherington still be here?? Noah Hiles had a great story in the Post-Gazette today where an anonymous Pirates player called out the Pirates for not spending and saying that you get what you pay for.

Greg in Youngstown is irritated the Cleveland Guardians also can't hit but got hot at the right time and made the postseason. The Pirates are keeping Don Kelly and likely Ben Cherington. Will they finally add offense? Jack Suwinski, Henry Davis, Oneil Cruz, and many others hurt the team a ton offensively.

The Pirates extended Don Kelly and will bring back Ben Cherington. Poni disagrees with the idea that Cherington should still be in Pittsburgh. The Pirates have by far the worst record in the NL Central since Cherington took over as GM. Cherington is under contract until 2027.

The Pirates extended Don Kelly and will bring back Ben Cherington. Poni disagrees with the idea that Cherington should still be in Pittsburgh. The Pirates have by far the worst record in the NL Central since Cherington took over as GM. Cherington is under contract until 2027. Does the fact that the Steelers won the game excuse Mike Tomlin punting on 4th and 1 towards the end of the game? Calls.

Dan would pull Paul Skenes after four innings if Skenes lowers his ERA to 1.99. Ben Cherington said he's not surprised by the job Don Kelly has done. Kelly has a lot of strong qualities. Zangrilli thinks there is a 65% chance Ben Cherington returns and a 40% chance that Don Kelly is back in 2026.

Hour 4 with Joe Starkey: Dan would pull Paul Skenes after four innings if Skenes lowers his ERA to 1.99. Ben Cherington said he's not surprised by the job Don Kelly has done. Zangrilli thinks there is a 65% chance Ben Cherington returns and a 40% chance that Don Kelly is back in 2026. Who do you trust more - Carson Wentz with Kevin O'Connell or the Steelers defense? The emotional factor of the Rooney family going to Ireland is immense Sunday.

Ben Cherington's status seems shakier than ever. Hear award-winning columnist Dejan Kovacevic's Daily Shots of Steelers, Penguins and Pirates -- three separate podcasts -- every weekday morning on the DK Pittsburgh Sports podcasting network, available on all platforms: https://linktr.ee/dkpghsports Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear award-winning columnist Dejan Kovacevic's Daily Shots of Steelers, Penguins and Pirates -- three separate podcasts -- every weekday morning on the DK Pittsburgh Sports podcasting network, available on all platforms: https://linktr.ee/dkpghsports Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

NS9 Postgame Show Powered by Primanti Bros. The Pirates' early 3–0 lead quickly unraveled as Mitch Keller's solid start was spoiled by a three-run homer from Lawrence Butler, giving Oakland a 4–3 win and handing Pittsburgh its 12th loss in 13 games. Jim and Doug break down the missed opportunities with runners in scoring position, a surprisingly strong bullpen effort, and what this latest one-run defeat reveals about the team's ongoing offensive struggles and Ben Cherington's roster decisions. Presented by Fanduel Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NS9 for 30% off your first order at https://www.gritily.com 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.myspreadshop.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 ►BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/northshorenine.bsky.social Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to gauge the Cy Young Award chances of Pirates ace Paul Skenes. Does he have the award locked up on the National League side? With only Detroit's Tarik Skubal coming close to matching his production on the American League side? How badly would a Cy Young in a losing season for Skenes reflect on owner Bob Nutting, GM Ben Cherington and manager Don Kelly? Have the Pirates as a club taken Skenes' greatness for granted, in a strong rotation that also includes Mitch Keller? And what level of pressure is on Cherington and Kelly amid the team's latest losing skid? Our duo tackles those questions and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

PG columnist Jason Mackey joined the show. Jason feels more confident than ever that the Ben Cherington era will be over in Pittsburgh as the Pirates skid to the finish. What does the future look like for this team? Jason still thinks Paul Skenes wants to win here. Jason doesn't expect the payroll to go much higher in 2026 – maybe around $90M.

Is Aaron Rodgers already having buyer's remorse about choosing the Steelers? With injuries at QB in both Minnesota and Cincinnati, Rodgers could be stuck with a bad offense. Poni thinks the Week 2 performance and loss, filled with multiple gaffes, could already create some cracks in the armor. Can Mike Tomlin save this thing? HOCKEY TALK! Kyle Dubas responded to the rumors of Sidney Crosby – or his agent – tossing out the idea of a future trade. Dubas said if he placates Crosby right here and now, that doesn't help his team in the future. The guys think Dubas has already tried things ‘Sid's way' and they didn't work, so now they are facing a rebuild. PG columnist Jason Mackey joined the show. Jason feels more confident than ever that the Ben Cherington era will be over in Pittsburgh as the Pirates skid to the finish. What does the future look like for this team? Jason still thinks Paul Skenes wants to win here. Jason doesn't expect the payroll to go much higher in 2026 – maybe around $90M.

Dan thinks Don Kelly will return. Some people Dan has talked to around baseball don't think Ben Cherington will return. Dan doesn't think it's a definite a new GM will automatically bring a new manager and won't be Don Kelly. Kelly said the ceiling is so high for Konnor Griffin but "not yet" to come up. Dan would try and sign Griffin NOW.

Hour 3 with Bob Pompeani and Joe Starkey: Dan Zangrilli thinks Don Kelly will return. Some people Dan has talked to around baseball don't think Ben Cherington will return. The Limitless Express - The Steelers are 0-2 against New England since Tom Brady left. The Steelers lost to Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe. Tom Brady is playing in a flag football game on Donny's wedding day. Are you concerned about the 2026 quarterback class?

What would you do if Ben Cherington's retained? Hear award-winning columnist Dejan Kovacevic's Daily Shots of Steelers, Penguins and Pirates -- three separate podcasts -- every weekday morning on the DK Pittsburgh Sports podcasting network, available on all platforms: https://linktr.ee/dkpghsports Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The North Shore Nine Postgame Show powered by Primanti's breaks down a rough Roberto Clemente Day at PNC Park as the Pirates fall 4-0 to the Cubs. Tyler and Neil vent about a lifeless offense—just three hits and ten runners left on base—plus Braxton Ashcraft's uneven start, Cam Sanders' big homer allowed, and what the lineup's lack of future pieces means for 2026 and beyond. They also debate Ben Cherington's failed roster build and why it's hard to care when the team can't score or beat division rivals. Join the discussion as the guys share their frustration, spotlight the few bright spots like Kyle Nicolas, and talk about what it will take to fix the lineup this offseason. Watch the full postgame show now and be part of the NS9 community—like, comment, and subscribe for more Pirates coverage all season and into the offseason! Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NS9 for 30% off your first order at https://www.gritily.com 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 ►BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/northshorenine.bsky.social

Hear award-winning columnist Dejan Kovacevic's Daily Shots of Steelers, Penguins and Pirates -- three separate podcasts -- every weekday morning on the DK Pittsburgh Sports podcasting network, available on all platforms: https://linktr.ee/dkpghsports Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Ben Cherington delusions achieve new lows. Hear award-winning columnist Dejan Kovacevic's Daily Shots of Steelers, Penguins and Pirates -- three separate podcasts -- every weekday morning on the DK Pittsburgh Sports podcasting network, available on all platforms: https://linktr.ee/dkpghsports Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear award-winning columnist Dejan Kovacevic's Daily Shots of Steelers, Penguins and Pirates -- three separate podcasts -- every weekday morning on the DK Pittsburgh Sports podcasting network, available on all platforms: https://linktr.ee/dkpghsports Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We start by debating a big question raised in Noah Hiles' mailbag this week: will GM Ben Cherington return in 2026—and should he? (Spoiler: we're not so sure that's the right move.) Next, we break down how Don Kelly has performed as interim manager and whether he deserves the job long-term. Plus, we reveal which Pirates prospects are headed to the Arizona Fall League and share what their invitations mean for the organization's future. Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NS9 for 30% off your first order at https://www.gritily.com 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 ►BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/northshorenine.bsky.social

NS9 Postgame Show Powered by Primanti's. The Pittsburgh Pirates dropped another heartbreaker in Baltimore, losing 2–1 on a walk-off despite a dominant five-inning, eight-strikeout outing from Paul Skenes. Spencer Horwitz provided the lone offensive spark with a solo homer, but the lineup managed only two hits all night as Oneil Cruz, Henry Davis, and the rest of the bats continued to struggle. On this NS9 Postgame Show powered by Primanti Bros, Tyler and Doug break down the wasted pitching performance, vent their frustration with Ben Cherington's stalled rebuild, and discuss why this offense still can't find a way to score four runs. Like and subscribe for more unfiltered Pirates analysis, nightly postgame shows, and honest conversation about what needs to change in Pittsburgh. Presented by Fanduel Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NS9 for 30% off your first order at https://www.gritily.com 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.myspreadshop.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 ►BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/northshorenine.bsky.social

On his weekly mailbag podcast, Post-Gazette Pirates insider Noah Hiles answers reader questions. Among them: How should the front office manage the Oneil Cruz situation heading into next season, with major questions looming over his ability to become a true MLB star? Is GM Ben Cherington's job secure if this team is able to finish close to the .500 mark under manager Don Kelly? Was moving Bubba Chandler into the starting rotation next to Paul Skenes and Mitch Keller a wise idea? How much should Braxton Ashcraft's workload be managed moving forward? And if the Pirates can only keep one of Andrew McCutchen or Tommy Pham for 2026, which one should they choose?

Former MLB pitcher Matt Clement joined the show. The guys wanted to ask Matt about the Karen-like fan at the Phillies game that took a ball from a man and his son. Matt talked about some unruly fans and some of the difficulties he faced in his playing days. What kind of strides could the Pirates take in free agency and do you have faith in Bob Nutting making those moves? How much pressure is on Ben Cherington this offseason?

Juan Thornhill admitted that the defense wasn't ready for Justin Fields. How? The guys said the declaration of this defense being the best ever is already dead on arrival. How was a Mike Tomlin defense not ready for Fields? The incentives have been released for Cam Heyward and his new contract, and they do not look very good for Cam. Former MLB pitcher Matt Clement joined the show. The guys wanted to ask Matt about the Karen-like fan at the Phillies game that took a ball from a man and his son. Matt talked about some unruly fans and some of the difficulties he faced in his playing days. What kind of strides could the Pirates take in free agency and do you have faith in Bob Nutting making those moves? How much pressure is on Ben Cherington this offseason? Mike Florio from Pro Football Talk joined the show. Mike expected the Dolphins to be bad and he saw this coming. He believes Tyreek Hill will be this year's version of Davante Adams because Miami will be very bad heading into the trade deadline. Mike told the guys about Hill's value and background taking a hit due to the domestic violence claim currently against him. Mike explained the incentives of the Cam Heyward deal to the guys and they don't understand what all of the hoopla was about. Mike told the guys Chris Boswell is confident he will end up being the highest-paid kicker in the game, but the business (the team) wants to wait to pay its employee. Mike thinks Jabrill Peppers getting cut from the Patriots was a fit/scheme issue and don't think the Steelers are getting damaged goods here. Mike, a proud West Virginia man, is happy he won't be able to watch the Backyard Brawl on Saturday.

Nothing exposes Ben Cherington like the home run. Hear award-winning columnist Dejan Kovacevic's Daily Shots of Steelers, Penguins and Pirates -- three separate podcasts -- every weekday morning on the DK Pittsburgh Sports podcasting network, available on all platforms: https://linktr.ee/dkpghsports Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to react to the Pirates' run of success over the past couple of weeks, culminating in a series win against the defending World Serie champion Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday. Could this hot streak save GM Ben Cherington's job despite the ugly start to the year? Will Bob Nutting believe in the direction he's set, especially on the pitching side? And how does Don Kelly figure into the future? Our duo tackles those questions; analyzes reasons young pitchers like Paul Skenes, Bubba Chandler, Braxton Ashcraft and Mike Burrows are arriving MLB-ready after years of prospect underachievement; and ponder whether Jared Triolo can keep up his offensive numbers and be closer to the player the Pirates hoped Ke'Bryan Hayes would become.

PG columnist Jason Mackey joined the show. Jason admitted he is wavering on his Ben Cherington claim that he would be gone at season's end, but he does believe the Pirates will still move on from their GM. Should the Pirates re-sign Andrew McCutchen? There is a good argument to bring back Tommy Pham, who has ended up being a pretty good offseason signing. Jason still has hopes Bob Nutting will look at the whole body of work and not just how the team played in the final month. Jason shared that Cherington is under contract through ‘at least' next season. Jason thinks Cherington stays if the Pirates finish this final month strong.

Ben Cherington's three bizarre non-trades. Hear award-winning columnist Dejan Kovacevic's Daily Shots of Steelers, Penguins and Pirates -- three separate podcasts -- every weekday morning on the DK Pittsburgh Sports podcasting network, available on all platforms: https://linktr.ee/dkpghsports Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices