Podcast appearances and mentions of ben nicholson smith

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 first game of the season for the Toronto Blue Jays was an ugly disaster. But since then, they have turned things around, including sweeping the Washington Nationals. Are the Blue Jays going to be a team that will continue to bounce back all season long? The Green Zone

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. 

We are joined by Sportsnet insider Ben Nicholson-Smith to break down all things Blue Jays and preview the upcoming season Sign up at FANDUEL ---- https://canada.sportsbook.fanduel.com/en/sports

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

The Blue Jays have made one big trade, but they still have significant needs. Ben and Arden discuss the Jays' strategy (3:50), a possible Vlad Jr. extension (54:02) and what the deal for Andrés Giménez means (1:09:03).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.

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

 Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith joins JD to discuss the repercussions for the Blue Jays after Juan Soto's $765 million, 15-year contract with the Mets, the pressure on the front office, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette's next deals, and if the Jays missed out on free agents (00:00). Then, JD gives his 'Stats You Should Know' from the weekend (41:41). After, FOX NFL analyst Brady Quinn breaks down the weekend that was in the NFL, including Josh Allen's superhero loss to the Los Angeles Rams, the MVP race, the Minnesota Vikings and Sam Darnold, the NFC West-leading Seattle Seahawks, and Bryce Young (48:41). Finally, JD and the producers wrap the show with 'What We Missed' (1:27:10).   The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Brent Gunning and Daniele Franceschi kick off the final hour of today's FAN Morning Show with their expectations for tonight's Maple Leafs-Predators matchup. Sportsnet's own Ryan Dixon joins the guys to help set up today's announcement and roster reveal for Team Canada at the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off. The trio dissect some of the biggest decisions the Canadians are facing, which of course starts in net, along with the options for the top lines, aggravators, team leaders, and the blue line. In the back end, B&D turn their attention to the Blue Jays' offseason with Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet (23:02). BNS weighs in on what he heard from Jays' GM Ross Atkins yesterday, when we could really see some movement in the MLB free agent market and his expectations of the Winter Meetings next week. The trio also get into what Toronto's biggest needs are, the likelihood of trades if they aren't able to land any big-name free agents and how worried fans should be that Vladimir Guerrero Jr. still doesn't have an extension. 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.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith joins the show to parse through the MLB's free-agency chase for Juan Soto, where the Blue Jays are at with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. on a contract extension and why prioritizing other contracts might be a mistake (00:00). Then, two-time NBA champion, Joel Anthony, drops-in to chat about Miami Heat 'culture' and how the grind of a rebuild can affect the Raptors (34:00). NHL Network's Mike Kelly comes on to discuss Team Canada's  upcoming roster reveal for the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament (53:00). Mike gets into how Connor Bedard and Mitch Marner have started their seasons, makes a dark horse case for John Tavares, and questions the goaltending situation. The week ends with 'What We Missed!' (1:19:00) 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. 

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert kick things off by discussing what they have learned about the Leafs amidst Matthews' absence. Then, Mike Futa (12:28) joins the show to discuss tonight's matchup between the Buds and Panthers, how the Leafs have looked under Craig Berube, whether the Panthers are experiencing the Stanley Cup hangover, and more. Later, Ben Nicholson-Smith (29:12) discusses the Dodgers bringing in Blake Snell on yet another payment plan, the Jays' chances at signing Juan Soto, what the team should have on their offseason agenda 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.

With the off-season ramping up, Ben and Arden wonder how the Blue Jays can get better. Juan Soto? (02:15) A frontline starting pitcher? (38:17) Or some under-the-radar moves? (48:46) This episode of ATL covers all angles.Additional audio from MLB.comContact 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 Media Inc. or any affiliates.

James Mirtle, senior writer with The Athletic, analyzes the Maple Leafs after an encouraging 4-0 victory over the Boston Bruins (5:00). JD and James theorize why the Leafs are so successful without Auston Matthews, debate line combinations, and discuss the Atlantic Division, how to get the most from Max Domi, Anthony Stolarz' workload and modern day goaltending science. Ben Nicholson-Smith, Blue Jays and MLB reporter with Sportsnet, checks-in from the GM meetings to chat about the general tenor of the Blue Jays front office, how the Jays can stay financially flexible,  players the Jays are targeting, and the latest about Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s contract extension (50:00). Bill Barnwell, ESPN NFL writer, gets into the winners and losers at the NFL trade deadline (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.  

Ailish and Justin kick off the show with Frank Seravalli (1:37) to break down the spookiest storylines around the NHL. They discuss Timothy Liljegren being traded to the San Jose Sharks, the recent valuations of NHL franchises, whether Fleury could be on Team Canada for the Four Nations Face-Off, and much more. Then, after a historic comeback against the Yankees, the L.A. Dodgers are World Series Champions. Ben Nicholson-Smith (25:52) joins the show to recap the Yankees' missed opportunity, whether Boone is the right man to lead the Yankees, where Juan Soto will end up, and more. Then, they discuss the Dodgers' legacy under Dave Roberts, the Jays' connections to the 2024 World Series, and more. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

On the final hour of Monday's FAN Morning Show, Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning are joined by Sportsnet's MLB Insider, Ben Nicholson-Smith. He dishes on Shohei Ohtani's potential return following his injury in Game 2, Freddie Freeman becoming Los Angeles' new Kirk Gibson, plus Juan Soto's free agency and if he's the most dangerous bat left in this series. In the final segment, the pair connect with Thomas Hickey of NHL Network (27:10). They shift the conversation back to the Maple Leafs to preview tonight's matchup against the Winnipeg Jets. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

JD dives into the updated version of the Maple Leafs' blueline; is it the best of this era (00:00)? Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith checks-in from the Bronx to discuss what it's like being around the New York Yankees and the pressure on José Ramírez (20:00). Later, JD and Armen chat about the Raptors' competitive preseason win over the Celtics (51:00). Mike Futa, co-host of The FAN Hockey Show, joins JD in-studio to get into the Leafs' blue line improvements, Timothy Liljegren drawing-in, how player development has evolved, using the media to propel prospect stock and another slow start for the Edmonton Oilers (1:02:00).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.

Following the Blue Jays' season-ending press conference, Ben offers his rapid-fire thoughts on the messaging from the front office (01:26), how to measure success for the Jays (12:36) and how they'll approach free agency (17:39).Additional audio from MLB.comContact 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 Media Inc. or any affiliates.

JD kicks off the show with his thoughts on the Blue Jays' season ending. Then, FOX Sports NFL analyst Brady Quinn joins the show to recap the Detroit Lions win over the Seattle Seahawks, before discussing two-high safeties, young quarterback play, Jayden Daniels, Michael Penix Jr., the frightful Philadelphia Eagles, the New York Jets, and if the Washington Commanders are the best team in the NFC East (00:00). After, JD speaks on Raptors media day, the team's rebuild, Scottie Barnes, and  Jakob Poeltl's comments (36:47). In hour two of the show, The Ringer's senior NBA staff writer, Howard Beck, connects to the program to talk about the blockbuster trade that sent Karl-Anthony Towns to the New York Knicks; they also talk about OG Anunoby, rim protection, Julius Randle, and if the Knicks and Timberwolves got better (50:06). Afterwards, co-host of the At the Letters podcast, Ben Nicholson-Smith, joins the show to digest the Toronto Blue Jays' season, before talking about the frustrations in the locker room, the front office's vision, the futures of Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., reasons to let players walk in free agency, and development (01:05:56).   The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

The ‘24 season's all but in the books, so Arden and Ben go big picture and look at some major September developments (06:36), the Jays' pitching development (30:28) and which of their predictions went wrong (46:19).Additional audio from MLB.comContact 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 Media Inc. or any affiliates.

The Jays start a new series with the Cardinals tonight and Ben Nicholson-Smith (5:14) joins Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert from Rogers Centre with a look at the end of the season including the return of Bo Bichette while Bowden Francis hopes to keep things going after two missed no hitters. Later, top prospects with Jason Bukula (26:00), league wide and then a focus on the Canadian teams. We close with Diana Matheson (39:10), CEO of Project 8 discusses the movement of the Northern Super League, ticket sales, the rise of women's sports and how the time is right more than ever before. 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, Shi Davidi joins Ben to discuss the emergence of Bowden Francis (00:40), the big-picture questions facing the Blue Jays this winter (28:56), and how to fix the Toronto bullpen (1:07:34).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 Shi Davidi.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.

This week, Sam McKee joins Ben to discuss the biggest Blue Jays storylines including next steps for the front office (12:19), a possible Vlad Guerrero Jr. extension (26:30), and Bo Bichette's future in Toronto (49:36).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 Sam McKee.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 two, guest hosts Jamie Dodd & Israel Fehr talk the latest baseball & movie news with MLB Network and Cinephile Podcast's Adnan Virk (1:55), plus they discuss the future of Mark Shapiro and the Blue Jays w/ Sportsnet Jays reporter Ben Nicholson-Smith (28:38). 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.