Podcast appearances and mentions of ben nicholson smith

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

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert kick things off with Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith (1:47) live from Sacramento ahead of the Jays series against the A's. They discuss the potential trade targets for Toronto, the value that some of the younger Jays have on the trade market, and more. Then, live from Vegas for the NBA Summer League, Michael Grange joins the show (28:50). They discuss the mentality that the Raptors have heading into their first Summer League game, who he thinks could make an impact and fight for a larger roster spot this season, Ryan Nembhard's stealing the show over Bronny James and Cooper Flagg, the Raptors new additions, and much 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.

Ben & Daniele wrap up their day discussing the Blue Jays' trade deadline strategies, reflecting on past decisions made by the front office. They invite Ben Nicholson-Smith from the At the Letters Podcast to explore Atkins and Shapiro's trading history and speculate on potential targets for Toronto. The discussion includes names in the market and an overview of the A.L. East with Alanna Rizzo (23:13) from MLB Network, examining team performances and trade possibilities ahead of July 31st. They also touch on other MLB stories, such as Rafael Devers and the L.A. 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.

All of a sudden, the Blue Jays are unbeatable. Arden and Ben discuss what's going right for the Blue Jays (2:43) before discussing the starting rotation (29:32) and brainstorming a couple trade ideas (51:32).This podcast is produced and sound engineered by Sho Alli and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling.Contact us: attheletters@sportsnet.caAudio Credits: MLB.com, Sportsnet, Sportsnet 590 The FANThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliates.

Blake Murphy is joined by Sportsnet's Chris Black to talk George Springer getting snubbed from the All-Star Roster and how this Blue Jay team compares to other playoff squads in recent history. John Schriffen (31:00), White Sox play-by-play voice, discusses the state of the Sox and his career path in broadcasting. Afterwards, Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith (50:45) joins Blake in-studio for the hour to suggest relievers, starters, and right-handed hitters that Toronto can look to acquire at the trade deadline. 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.

In hour one, guest hosts Jamie Dodd & Israel Fehr look back at the previous day in sports, Jamie explains why the Blue Jays' recent success should excite Canucks fans (3:00), plus they discuss those red-hot Jays with Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith (26:13). This podcast is produced by Andy Cole and Greg Balloch. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Brent and Daniele kick off the final hour with more Blue Jays thoughts as the team sits atop the American League East tied with their opponent tonight, the New York Yankees. The hosts then circle back on the Maple Leafs and discuss the reports that the team may have pursued Brock Boeser in free agency. B&D take some time to examine how fans would have felt about adding him and how he would have fit on Toronto. Mike Futa, SN590's own and two-time Stanley Cup winning executive, weighs in on the free agency market as a whole, some of the signings made, the names still available, and the Oilers' situation. To end the show, Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith chats about the first place Blue Jays and break down last night's big win. BNS also shares why they need to complete the sweep tonight over the Yankees to keep the good vibes going and where this recent run puts them heading into the MLB trade deadline.  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.

After some big wins against the Yankees, the Blue Jays are fighting for first. Arden and Ben discuss the vibes around the team (1:02) and the latest on Scherzer (9:43) before wondering about trade deadline additions (26:15).This podcast is produced and sound engineered by Sho Alli and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling.Contact us: attheletters@sportsnet.caAudio Credits: MLB.com, Sportsnet, Sportsnet 590 The FANThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

At this rate, the Blue Jays are likely to be summer buyers. Arden and Ben discuss what pitching the Jays will need (01:31) before wondering about offensive upgrades (27:49) and the role of this front office (40:33).This podcast is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling.Contact us: attheletters@sportsnet.caAudio Credits: MLB.comThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate. 

Blake Murphy and Julia Kreuz are joined by Ben Nicholson-Smith to discuss the starting rotation and other questions for the Blue Jays as the Trade Deadline nears. Xavier Scruggs (25:50) discusses his interview with Wade Boggs, playing baseball in Korea, hitting humans with chairs at Fanatics Fest and the Blue Jays. Matt Sussman (50:29) talks about the surging Detroit Tigers and if the Rockies can reach historic levels of awful.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.

Ben and Brent reset on the NHL and what the market is looking like with July 1st quickly approaching. The hosts dive into Jonathan Toews getting set to resume his NHL career after two years away by joining the Winnipeg Jets on a bonus-heavy deal worth up to $7M. Was there a possible fit in Toronto? Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff stops by to help gauge the NHL free agent market with thoughts on John Tavares and the Panthers' UFA trio including Sam Bennett, Brad Marchand and Aaron Ekblad. Later on, Sportsnet's own Ben Nicholson-Smith (26:00) checks in on the Blue Jays to discuss the team's biggest needs, the progress of their internal developments, and what's in store ahead of the trade deadline.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.

Despite a sweep in Philly, the Blue Jays are in a good spot. Arden and Ben discuss what the Rafael Devers trade means (14:18) before turning to manager John Schneider (41:17) and some pitching questions (47:18).This podcast is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling.Contact us: attheletters@sportsnet.caAudio Credits: MLB.comThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Blake Murphy and Julia Kreuz are joined by Arjun Nimmala to discuss his season, working with Francisco Lindor and more. Pat Malacar (30:55) previews Max Scherzer's start with the Bisons and who's buzzing in Buffalo. Ben Nicholson-Smith (50:21) talks Bowden Francis, Alejandro Kirk's season and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s power numbers. Lastly, Adam Aaronson (1:20:30) tees up the Phillies as the Blue Jays begin their 3-game series in Philadelphia.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.

Thanks to some big swings, the Blue Jays are playing their best baseball yet (00:35). Arden and Ben break down the success of Kirk and Clase (02:52) before discussing what to do with Bowden Francis & the rotation (28:15).This podcast is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling.

Ben and Brent kick off the final hour of today's show discussing the biggest storylines from around the NHL alongside Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff. The trio chat about the Stanley Cup Final's key contributors through two games, along with some contract signings that are already being made. They fixate on Yanni Gourde's new deal with the Lightning and debate if it's a legitimate way to operate as an organization. This drives a conversation of why the signing counters the spirit of the rule, if more teams will start to manipulate it, and why the league should step in to correct it. To end the show, the hosts check in with Sportsnet's own Ben Nicholson-Smith (32:25) to discuss the Blue Jays' recent run of winning four-straight series. The boys get into how Toronto is playing so well, both offensively and defensively, despite missing some key pieces.  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.

After a convincing sweep of the A's, the Blue Jays are finally rolling (00:20). Arden and Ben discuss the Addison Barger breakout (17:51) and wonder what the future holds for the fifth rotation spot (56:50).This podcast is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.  

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert kick things off with Ben Nicholson-Smith (1:25) to break down what we can expect from Jordan Romano in his return to Toronto. They tee up the Jays series against the Phillies and discuss how Philadelphia has looked this season, if Bryce Harper is more compelling than Loonie Dog Night, how close Max Scherzer is to a return, and more. Then, they close the segment breaking down the list of protected players ahead of the PWHL Expansion Draft. Next, Adam Stanley joins the show (25:15) ahead of the RBC Canadian Open. They discuss the famous Rink Hole, Rory's success in Canada, the Canadians in the field, and much 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.

JD explains why the Toronto market pressure discourse is overblown and previews what Maple Leafs General Manager Brad Treliving will have to address this morning (00:00). Sportsnet Blue Jays reporter Ben Nicholson-Smith joins JD to discuss Bo Bichette's comfort level, how the Jays' pitching is carrying the load, why the team seems hesitant to put Anthony Santander in the injured list, and what could be next for Santander (16:00). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.  

Ben and Brent check in on the Blue Jays and their continuing scoring struggles this season. The hosts dive into this team's offensive woes and the discourse surrounding them alongside Sportsnet's own Ben Nicholson-Smith. The trio dive into the aftermath of all of Toronto's offseason moves and weigh the positives like the bullpen versus the negatives thus far such as Anthony Santander, Andrés Giménez and Max Scherzer. They examine what it all means for this team moving forward, especially when they were considered “all in” on this season. To end today, the a.m. pair head to Edmonton and check in with 1440 radio host and writer for The Nation Network, Jason Gregor (26:40), to talk about the Oilers seemingly primed for another Stanley Cup Final appearance. They get into the differences from last season to this and if they can finally the hoist the sought after trophy, as well as Connor McDavid's future with the Oil. 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.

This week Arden and Ben start with a big-picture check in on the Blue Jays (00:19) before discussing Jeff Hoffman's struggles (32:08) and the state of the starting rotation (1:02:29).This podcast is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben Nicholson-Smith.Contact us: attheletters@sportsnet.caAudio Credits: MLB.comThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

JD starts the show with his recap of the wild weekend in the NHL, including the Winnipeg Jets' Game 7 comeback win over the Blues (00:00). Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith joins the show to break down the Blue Jays' issues through the first month of the season, their place within the AL East, where the team still needs to improve, and the most recent additions to their pitching depth (15:00). Then, JD details the dual Game 7s for Denver area teams on Saturday night (47:44). Panthers TV analyst and former Panthers defenceman, Ed Jovanovski, comes on to help preview the Leafs' second round series against Florida, including the addition of Brad Marchand to the Panthers, the lack of weaknesses amongst the Cup champs, and the recent history between the two teams (53:03). Later, Nick Kypreos, co-host of Real Kyper and Bourne, joins JD to continue the conversation around the Leafs, the differences from their last playoff matchup, and the keys for the Leafs to move on (01:19:48).  The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates. 

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert kick things off with Sportsnet's Harnarayan Singh ahead of his call of Game 6 between the Blues and Jets tonight (1:00). They break down who will step up for Winnipeg with Mark Scheifele out of the lineup, the home team's dominance in the series, and more. Then, Ailish and Justin go through their first-round MVPs and who they expect to continue to impress throughout the postseason. Next, Ben Nicholson-Smith (27:17) joins the show to discuss the Blue Jays' series against the Guardians after Ross Atkins' press conference today, and he shares his thoughts on the Jays' search for a 5th starter, how the lineup looks with Daulton Varsho back in the mix, and much more. To close, Ailish and Justin go through their NHL playoff round 1 superlatives.  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.

With the Blue Jays back in Toronto, Ben looks closely at Kevin Gausman's 53-pitch inning ((04:36), wonders about the team's rotation depth (19:11) and gives Arjun Nimmala some credit (22:41).This podcast is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben Nicholson-Smith.Contact us: attheletters@sportsnet.caAudio Credits: MLB.comThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

The Blue Jays aren't hitting, and it's costing them in the standings (00:29). Ben and Arden wonder about possible solutions for the offence (29:22) and what's next for the Jays' rotation (50:24).Additional audio from MLB.com.Contact us: attheletters@sportsnet.caThis podcast is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben Nicholson-Smith.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.

After a strong week for the Jays, Ben and Arden discuss their starting rotation (07:00), give the bullpen some credit (19:24) and wonder whether this lineup can succeed without tons of homers (33:27).Additional audio from MLB.com.Contact us: attheletters@sportsnet.caThis podcast is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben Nicholson-Smith.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Ben and Arden break down Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s extension and what it means on the field (00:28) and for the team's future direction (29:14). Plus, a discussion about the team's tough series against the Mets (52:30).Additional audio from MLB.com.Contact us: attheletters@sportsnet.caThis podcast is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben Nicholson-Smith.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.

The FAN Morning Show hits its final hour of Tuesday with Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning continuing the hockey talk. The hosts dive into Alex Ovechkin's journey to become the NHL's all-time leading goal scorer, as well as Auston Matthews' case to be the next threat to that record. How viable is that? Where does Ovi stack up in the greatest of all-time debate? The Star's Damien Cox shares his take on it all, before zooming out to look at some possible first round playoff matchups around the league. To close the show, Sportsnet's own Ben Nicholson-Smith (23:26) weighs in on the future effect of Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s historic new contract, along with the offensive upside is of this year's Blue Jays team. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

JD begins the show reacting to reports that the Toronto Blue Jays and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. have agreed to a 14-year, $500-million contract extension. The conversation continues with Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith (10:30) to detail the timing behind the second-richest deal in MLB history, why Toronto was comfortable going past their offseason valuation, the elevated expectations for Guerrero Jr., and whether the Blue Jays will turn their spending focus to Bo Bichette or the pitching staff. Then, JD touches on Nick Robertson's two-goal performance for the Toronto Maple Leafs over the weekend (48:30). Afterwards, Washington Capitals play-by-play voice Joe Beninati (54:15) joins to discuss his call on Alex Ovechkin's 895th goal to break the all-time NHL record. Joe shares his thoughts on how the perception around Ovechkin has evolved over the years and what yesterday's moment meant to the Washington sports market. JD and the producers conclude the show with What We Missed (1:17:00).The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates. 

A 5-2 start wouldn't have been possible without some impressive hitting (02:40). Plus, Ben and Arden look at how the Jays can fill in for Max Scherzer (30:49) and discuss the much-improved bullpen (46:25).Additional audio from MLB.comContact us: attheletters@sportsnet.caThis podcast is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben Nicholson-Smith.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.

The FAN Morning Show with Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning starts off with final takeaways from the Maple Leafs' dominating win last night. Sportsnet's own Ben Nicholson-Smith shifts the conversation to tomorrow's Opening Day extravaganza to help preview and project the Blue Jays this year. The trio dive deep into all things Jays including the lineup, the new additions, the pitching staff, and if there could be a last-minute Vladimir Guerrero Jr. extension coming. To close the show, the boys bring on friend of the show, MLB Network's Adnan Virk (25:50), to look around the majors. They touch on just how dominant the Dodgers could be, before making the case why the American League East is still the toughest division in baseball. 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.

A new season means hope for the Blue Jays (01:17) and a newly finalized roster (07:50). Plus, Arden and Ben break down the Alejandro Kirk deal (31:00) and revisit the Vladimir Guerrero Jr. discussion (43:56).Additional audio from MLB.com.Contact us: attheletters@sportsnet.caThis podcast is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling.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.

Blake Murphy and Julia Kreuz are joined by Ben Nicholson-Smith to analyze Addison Barger's future, Alan Roden earning a roster spot & Alejandro Kirk's contract extension. Afterwards, Blake and Julia discuss Toronto's early season schedule and questions surrounding AL East teams.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.

JD reacts to the action-packed weekend of sports, including Canada's men's soccer team victory over the Americans (00:00). JD then moves onto the Maple Leafs' lowly loss to the Nashville Predators (9:00) and brings on James Mirtle, senior NHL writer at The Athletic, to analyze Joseph Woll against Anthony Stolarz, why Craig Berube is demoting Scott Laughton, Morgan Reilly's free-market value, and Matthew Knies' contract extension numbers. JD then touches on some of the potential lottery picks he watched in college basketball over the weekend (46:30). Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith gets into Alejandro Kirk's contract extension, Mark Shapiro's optimism about extending Vladimir Guerrero Jr., the biggest surprises from the final roster decisions, Alan Roden's opportunity and Max Scherzer's thumb injury (54:00). The show ends with 'What We Missed!' (1:20:00)The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.  

Sho Alli and Julia Kreuz break down the Blue Jays' 2-1 Spring Training win over the Pirates to wrap up Grapefruit League play in Florida! They take your texts, and get into the roster decisions that saw all of Alan Roden, Nathan Lukes, Myles Straw, Davis Schneider, and Will Wagner making the roster - did Addison Barger deserve to make it over one of those names? They also discuss the pitchers, including Max Scherzer being penciled in for the third spot in the rotation, while Richard Lovelady and Jacob Barnes get the last two bullpen spots over Ryan Yarbrough and Tommy Nance - what went into the decision to not extend a spot to Yarbrough?  Plus, it's time to make bold predictions - they give their own predictions, read the bold texts at 590-590, and also hear from both Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith and MLB.com's Keegan Matheson as to their bold predictions as well. 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.

Questions around Max Scherzer are impacting the Blue Jays' pitching staff (01:05). Plus, Arden and Ben look ahead at the Blue Jays' bench (24:02) and discuss 2025 expectations for George Springer (54:58).Additional audio from MLB.com.Contact us: attheletters@sportsnet.caThis podcast is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

JD begins the show discussing reports on the gap in contract talks between Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and the Toronto Blue Jays. The conversation continues with Ben Nicholson-Smith (7:45) who provides insight on how deferrals have factored into the negotiation, the path towards a deal between the two parties, whether the optics are shifting back into Guerrero Jr.'s favour, and just how real is the hype surrounding Alan Roden and Jake Bloss. Then, Justin Bourne, co-host of Real Kyper & Bourne joins JD (52:00) to examine how the Toronto Maple Leafs have fared in the absence of injured defenceman Chris Tanev, the continued secrecy around Auston Matthews' health, and the changing relationship dynamics between teams, their athletes and sports media. JD and the producers close out the show with What We Missed.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. 

First, some further intrigue on Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (1:20). Next, Arden and Ben have lots to discuss from Dunedin, Fla. including some possible strengths and weaknesses of the 2025 team (11:30).This podcast is produced and sound engineered by Sho Alli and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling.Contact us: attheletters@sportsnet.caAudio Credits: MLB.com, SportsnetThe views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

JD reacts to the Leafs' 5-4 overtime comeback against the Boston Bruins last night. He share his takeaways including Nick Robertson's physical play, potential injuries to Chris Tanev and William Nylander, and Auston Matthews not looking like himself until late in the game. The conversation on Matthews continues with Mike Futa, co-host of The FAN Hockey Show (9:45). They theorize what's behind the Leafs captain's inconsistencies, whether Toronto should be in the trade market for non-rental players like Brayden Schenn or Scott Laughton, if contract extension talks with Mitch Marner will come to a head before the NHL trade deadline on March 7, and how Nick Robertson's hot streak has impacted his value in Toronto and across the league. Afterwards, JD touches on why the New York Yankees are a legitimate threat to sign Vladimir Guerrero Jr. should he reach free agency. Then, Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith checks in from Dunedin, Florida (53:20) to discuss Blue Jays' spring training storylines. JD and Ben project Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette's aging curves, if Vladdy's contract ask is near $585-million as suggested by David Ortiz, how recent signings have influenced the situation, what the Jays can learn from the Kansas City Royals' experience signing Bobby Witt Jr., and whether Toronto is expected to add a bat at the last minute. The show ends with 'What We Missed!'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.

So much for a potential deal with Vlad Guerrero Jr. this week. Arden and Ben look at the fallout for both the team (00:54) and the player (37:02) following negotiations that didn't result in an extension.Additional audio from MLB.com.Contact us: attheletters@sportsnet.caThis podcast is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling.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.

In Hour 2 we were joined by Sportsnet's Mark Spector and Ben Nicholson-Smith from Sportsnet covering the Toronto Blue Jays. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

During Hour 2 Ben Nicholson-Smith from Sportsnet joined the show discussing the Blue Jays' spring training and Vladimir Guerrero Jr's contract situation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The FAN Morning Show enters its final hour on this Tuesday with some breaking news. Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning take you live to Dunedin to hear from Vladimir Guerrero Jr. as he announces that he was unable to come to terms with the Blue Jays organization on an extension to keep him with the team beyond this season. Listen to what he says and get instant reaction from the two hosts, as well as Sportsnet's own MLB insider and Jays reporter, Ben Nicholson-Smith. The trio discuss why they think an agreement wasn't reached to keep the Jays' homegrown superstar in Toronto long-term, along with where it leaves the team this season and beyond. To end the show, B&B head back down to Dunedin to get the other side of the story and hear comments from Blue Jays General Manager Ross Atkins as to why a deal couldn't be done, if this ends talks completely, and what's next for the organization (40:45). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

The stakes are high for the Blue Jays and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. this week (00:21). Ben and Arden look at how negotiations could unfold (15:32) and dive deep on the potential risks and benefits for both sides (59:09).Additional audio from MLB.com.Contact us: attheletters@sportsnet.caThis podcast is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Arden Zwelling and Ben Nicholson-Smith.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.

Arden and Ben begin with a look at the Blue Jays' new roster. Is it good enough to contend? (00:22) Plus, breaking down the Rōki Sasaki pursuit (40:59) and a closer look at Anthony Santander and Max Scherzer (1:28:15).Contact us: attheletters@sportsnet.caThis podcast is produced and sound engineered by Christian Ryan and hosted by Ben Nicholson-Smith and Arden Zwelling.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates. 

JD reacts to Anthony Santander's introductory press conference with the Toronto Blue Jays (00:00). Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith joins JD to give a read on the rest of the free agent market, targets the Jays are still willing to spend on, their remaining needs, the possibility of signing Pete Alonso and Jurickson Profar, Max Scherzer's fit, deferred money in contracts and if it's going to become the norm, and the latest on Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s contract negotiations (7:00). JD then gets into Connor McDavid's suspension and the Edmonton Oilers issued statement, literacy in sports media,  and the Raptors' tank-a-thon (52:00). JD and the producers then hit 'What We Missed!' (1:15:00)The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.     

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning close out Monday morning looking back on what happened with Rōki Sasaki this weekend alongside Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson Smith. They discuss just how big of a miss this was from the front office, why the Blue Jays picked up Myles Straw from the Guardians, and how the Blue Jays can pivot this offseason. Is the outrage justified? Does it mean anything that Bo Bichette was at the meeting to pitch Sasaki? Is there any chance Max Scherzer ends up a Blue Jay? Later, Jody Shelley, former NHLer turned analyst, helps set the stage for tonight's Leafs-Lightning clash (26:18). The trio dive into how William Nylander fits in Toronto's lineup, Ryan Reaves' surprising lack of fights this season, and who the top heavyweight currently is in 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.

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert kick things off with Ben Nicholson-Smith (1:15) to break down the latest reporting regarding the Blue Jays. They discuss the Jays' chances of landing superstar FA Roki Sasaki, whether the Mets are a legitimate threat to make a move for Vladdy amidst reports surrounding active contract negotiations, and much more. Then, James Palmer (28:40) joins the show to tee up the Divisional Round of the NFL playoffs, Mahomes and the Chiefs' chances at a three-peat, whether the Lions' health concerns will plague the team against the Commanders, the battle between Jackson and Allen, 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.

The FAN Morning Show with Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning rolls on with a look back on the NFL's Wild Card Weekend. Trey Wingo, host of the Alternate Routes podcast, stops by to discuss the ceiling for the Commanders with Jayden Daniels behind centre, who was more impressive between the Bills and Ravens, where the Steelers go from here, and the impact Mike Vrabel will have in New England. The hosting duo then take some time to discuss Nick Taylor winning the Sony Open in Hawaii in a two-hole playoff. Later on, we turn our attention back to the Blue Jays' offseason with the latest addition of closer Jeff Hoffman alongside Sportsnet MLB insider, Ben Nicholson-Smith (28:10). The co-host of At The Letters weighs in on how this front office can get creative to fill in some their needs, the possibility of re-signing Vladimir Guerrero Jr. before Spring Training, and the team's interest in Roki Sasaki.   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.

The highest-rated free agent starting pitcher is off the board, and the team he chose shocked everyone. Corbin Burnes agreed to a $210 million, 6-year deal with the surprising Arizona Diamondbacks over the weekend and it's now changed the way people view the already highly competitive NL West division.Jordan Shusterman is joined by guest host Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet to discuss the stunning signing by the Snakes out West, helping them solidify their already impressive rotation. With the Burnes addition, are they now viewed as the biggest threat to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL? Also, is there any room left in their budget to complement an offensive piece or two in their lineup?Also on this episode of the Baseball Bar-B-Cast, Jordan and Ben talk about the latest signings around the league, including Teoscar Hernandez reuniting with the Dodgers, Sean Manaea returning to the New York Mets and Walker Buehler moving from the West Coast to the East Coast to join the Boston Red Sox. Later, they get into the latest news surrounding contract extension talks between Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and the Toronto Blue Jays, as well as whether Toronto can salvage their already rocky offseason. (6:18) - The Opener: Burnes to the D-backs(16:39) - Scott Boras Offseason Scoreboard update(22:51) - Around the League: Teoscar to the Dodgers(30:13) - Manaea back to the Mets(38:13) - Boston Buehler(41:54) - Rangers sign Pederson(52:34) - Guerrero Jr. contract extension talks(1:05:23) - State of the Blue Jays offseason

What the hell is taking so long for Corbin Burnes? We chat with Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet in Toronto to get the scoop on their chances to land the ace over the #SFGiants, plus thoughts on Vlad Jr's future north of the border. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/passionforthepastime/support