Podcasts about blue jays mlb

Was this the greatest World Series story ever told? How about the most memorable Game 7? The Blue Jays, in the end, had chances to hold on to or extend the lead, then, when the Dodgers tied it, chances to win in regulation and then tie it when falling behind in the 11th. The Dodgers' comeback in Games 6-7 came mainly due to the Japanese influence of Series MVP Yoshinobu Yamamoto and superstar DH-RHP Shohei Ohtani, with rookie Roki Sasaki looming as yet another Rising Sun weapon. Griff and Mal discuss the short list of the Jays' top heroes and who wears the horns of the goat. What has this post-season run done for Vlad Guerrero Jr.'s image and his future. What happens to Bo Bichette in free agency, and is Trey Yesavage a mortal lock for stardom in 2026. All this and more in this week's Exit Philosophy. INDEX: 0:00 – Intro 0:35 – Impressions and Reactions to Game 7 10:45 – Max Scherzer is a Maniac In The Best Way 17:35 – Dodgers and Japan ..Can the Jays be Players in Pacific Rim? 25:47 – Miguel Rojas Home Run 28:52 – Jeff Hoffman 33:45 – Ernie Clement's Outstanding Postseason 37:56 – Gold Glove Snubs 39:35 – IKF's Baserunning Might Have Cost them The World Series 45:50 – Top World Series Performers 50:20 – Ohtani's Extra Warm Up Time 52:10 – Trey Yesavage -  What Does 2026 Look Like? 57:29 – Greatest Game 7 Ever? 1:01:10 – When Richard Met Debbie 1:02:18 – Where Do The Jays Go with Bo Bichette? 1:07:24 – Impact on Canada of World Series Run 1:10:55 - Outro Please subscribe, like and leave a review whereever you listen! ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

Griff and Mal discuss Games 4 and 5 of the World Series in LA. Also, we preview games 6 and 7 to discuss what the Blue Jays have to do to bring a World Series championship back to Canada and the city of Toronto.  INDEX: 0:00 – Intro 0:32 – World Series Recap – Blue Jays are Resilient 1:30 – How Can They Win It at Home? 6:15 – Bullpens are the Key 9:35 – Yesavage has All-Time Performance and Game 5 Recap 18:12 – Can they get to Yamamoto? 20:55 – 18 Inning Marathon in Game 3 + Ohtani Performance 27:50 – History of Teams Going Home with 3-2 Lead 33:00 – Global Impact of World Series 36:18 – Who Is Going to DH? Bo or George 40:18 – Kirk Gibson World Series Story 41:22 – Chris Bassitt 42:55 – Jose Berrios 45:07 – Jeff Hoffman 46:30 – Brendan Little 48:06 – Eric Lauer 50:10 – Louis Varland and Seranthony Dominguez 52:05 – Addison Barger 55:20 – John Schneider vs Dave Roberts 57:15 – Vlad or Ohtani for MVP 1:00:00 - Outro ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

Griff's recap of an epic World Series game 3.  ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

Dodgers vs. Blue Jays MLB Betting Odds & Picks, 10/24/25 | Night Moves Show by Ramon Scott,

In this week's Exit Philosophy, as the Blue Jays head towards their first Fall Classic appearance in 32 years, Griff and Mal break down the team's League Championship Series win vs. the M's, from George Springer's historic three-run blast in Game 7, to Mad Max's aggressive meltdown getting in the face of manager John Schneider. And where was Seattle's dominant closer, Andres Munoz, to face the top of the Jays order with eight outs to go and the tying run on second, a series win for the taking? What about the highly regarded M's rotation when they were most needed. Moving on to the World Series, should Bo Bichette be activated for Joey Loperfido, even if he's only able to swing the bat once per game? Hey fans, Shohei Ohtani's flight has finally landed, unfortunately, it's still not to sign with the Jays. Is Trey Yesavage the man for Games 2-6 of the World Series vs. the Dodgers if the Jays expect to win. Is the Jays' bullpen still an Achilles Heel, and how does it match up against the Dodgers' disappointing group of relievers? Has Vlad done enough in this postseason to cement his legacy at 26 years old? Plus, a quick head-to-head comparison between the Jays and Dodgers. All this and more. INDEX: 0:00 - Intro 0:30 - The Blue Jays Are Heading to the World Series 8:10 - Where did the Mariners Go Wrong? 10:35 - Max Scherzer Game 4 Start 12:35 - Schneiders Brilliant Move with Max 15:15 - Trey Yesavage in the World Series 18:40 -  Did Andres Munoz Pitch Enough? 20:30 - Can John Schneider Outmanage Dave Roberts? 25:05 - Vladimir Guerrero Jr is The Guy! 27:28 - Pete Walker Felt This in March 31:50 - Vlads Legacy Postseason 35:12 - How Does This Impact The Next Generation of Fans? 38:20 - World Series Preview 47:45 - Best Way to Describe this Blue Jays Lineup 50:45 - The Keys for the Blue Jays in the World Series 54:40 - Dodgers vs Blue Jays Positional Breakdown 1:00:54 - World Series Predictions 1:02:20 - Outro ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

Mariners vs. Blue Jays MLB Betting Odds & Picks, 10/20/25 | Night Moves Show by Ramon Scvott.

Seattle Mariners vs. Toronto Blue Jays MLB Pick Prediction by Tony T. Mariners at Blue Jays 8:03PM ET—Logan Gilbert will start for Seattle. Gilbert, 25 starts has an ERA of 3.44 and WHIP of 1.03. The right hander in three playoff appearances allowed four runs with 11 strikeouts in 11 innings of work. The Blue Jays got to him for three runs in three innings in Game 2.

Seattle Mariners vs. Toronto Blue Jays MLB Pick Prediction by Tony T. Mariners at Blue Jays 8:03PM ET—Logan Gilbert will start for Seattle. Gilbert, 25 starts has an ERA of 3.44 and WHIP of 1.03. The right hander in three playoff appearances allowed four runs with 11 strikeouts in 11 innings of work. The Blue Jays got to him for three runs in three innings in Game 2. Trey Yesavage is starting for Toronto. Yesavage made three starts on the year posting an ERA of 3.21 and WHIP of 1.43. The righty in Game 2 allowed five runs in four innings. In two starts in the playoffs he allowed five earned runs with 15 strikeouts in 9 1/3rd innings.

Mariners vs. Blue Jays MLB Betting Odds & Picks, 10/19/25 | Night Moves Show by Ramon and D'Andre

Seattle Mariners vs. Toronto Blue Jays MLB Pick Prediction by Tony T. Mariners at Blue Jays 5PM ET—Logan Gilbert is starting for Seattle. Gilbert has 25 starts with an ERA of 3.44 and WHIP of 1.03. The right hander in the playoffs allowed one run with nine strikeouts in eight innings of work. Trey Yesavage makes the start for Toronto.

Mariners vs. Blue Jays MLB Betting Odds & Picks, 10/12/25 | Night Moves Show by Ramon and D'Andre

The pure fun of playing a kid's game has returned to the Blue Jays dugout and clubhouse. Griff and Mal discuss the unique post-game speech from manager John Schneider after beating the evil empire Yankees and enjoy the ever-more-unique Vlad Guerrero Jr.'s performance with Big Papi, David Ortiz, playing off of broadcaster John Sterling's famous “Th-uhhhh Yankees Win.” In response, in unison, Papi and Vlad shouted an out of tune, “DAAA Yankees Lose, DAAA Yankees lose,” with Derek Jeter and A-Rod on the panel trying to smile and play along. Moving on, can the Jays repeat the three-starter, 10- reliever approach to roster building for the next round and does it make a difference as to who their opponent might be, Tigers or M's? Manager Schneider has often lover the course of 162 games, laid out a road-to-victory plan for the bullpen, but never has it come together as flawlessly as in the clinching ALDS Game 4. Beyond Vlad outplaying Aaron Judge as series MVP, what other Jays stood out and what does this team have to do with their roster to win the next series and advance to their first World Series since 1993. INDEX: 0:00 – INTRO 0:34 – Blue Jays Beat Yankees in ALDS 3-1 7:15 – Blue Jays Post Game Celebrations 10:30 – Will This be Remembered As A Legacy Series for Vlad? 15:53 – Can Winning The World Series Overcome Some FA Failures? 21:55 – Why is This Team So Likeable? 25:00 – What Happened to Starters in the Post Season? 28:25 – Should Bieber have Stayed in the Game Longer? 31:21 – Division Series Top 3 MVPS 34:33 – Bo Bichette 40:20 – Who is the Better ALCS Matchup? 43:44 – Network Frustrations of Brewers – Blue Jays World Series 46:14 – Canadians Thriving in MLB 49:01 – Shoutout to Ryan Facchini 49:23 – NFL Week 6 Picks 52:55 - Outro ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

Yankees vs. Blue Jays MLB Betting Odds & Picks, 10/5/25 | Night Moves Show by Ramon Scott

NY Yankees vs. Toronto Blue Jays MLB Pick Prediction by Tony T. Yankees at Blue Jays 4PM ET—Max Fried will start for NY. Fried has 32 starts with an ERA of 2.86 and WHIP of 1.10. The left hander strikes out 24% with 12% walks. Ground balls are 68.8% with 0.65 home runs per nine innings. Trey Yesavage is starting for Toronto. Yesavage in three starts carries an ERA of 3.21 and WHIP of 1.43. The right hander fans 258% with 11.3% walks. Ground balls sit at 53.8% with no homers allowed.

Yankees vs. Blue Jays MLB Betting Odds & Picks, 10/4/25 | Night Moves Show by Ramon Scott

NY Yankees vs. Toronto Blue Jays MLB Pick Prediction by Tony T. Yankees at Blue Jays 4PM ET—Luis Gil will start for NY. Gil in eleven starts delivers an ERA of 3.32 with WHIP of 1.40. The right hander fans 16.8% with 13.5% walks. Ground balls sit at 31.4% with 0.79 home runs per nine innings. A FIP of 4.62. Shane Bieber makes the start for Toronto. Bieber got seven starts with an ERA of 3.57 with WHIP of 1.02. The righty strikes out 23.3% with 4.4% walks. Grounders are 48.2% with 1.79 home runs per nine innings.

The upcoming '25 ALDS features the two best teams from the AL East, the toughest division in baseball. Mal and Griff compare the Jays and Yankee rosters in six categories, including the leadership standoff between managers John Schneider and Aaron Boone. In addition, they review and preview the rest of the MLB field that has assembled on the October dance floor. Who are the five most important players for the Jays, moving forward. Many of them on both Griff and Mal's lists are members of the Jays bullpen, led by Jeff Hoffman, Brendon Little, Seranthony Dominguez and Mason Fluharty. INDEX: 0:00 – Intro 0:28 – Wild Card Round Recap 11:35 – Generations of Blue Jays Fans 21:35 – Blue Jays vs Yankees ALDS Breakdown 48:45 – Dodgers vs Phillies NLDS Preview 50:12 – Cubs vs Brewers NLDS Preview 51:07 – Tigers vs Mariners Preview 53:30 – Bo is OUT of the ALDS 56:27 – Will Jose Berrios Pitch in the Post Season? 57:15 – Blue Jays Intrasquad Scrimmages 59:45 – The Blue Jays Finishing Stretch 1:01:26 – Manager Vacancies 1:03:25 – NFL Week 5 Preview 1:07:35 - Outro ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

On this special solo edition of Exit Philosophy, the Blue Jays simply did what they had to do to win the AL East, knowing the powerful Yankees were likely to run the table against the O's and the White Sox. The team concept of this group of Jays has likely made them the first No. 1 AL seed in years that other wouldn't mind facing in a 5 or 7-game series. Griff breaks down payrolls of the 12 postseason qualifiers … and that doesn't include the free-spending Mets. Finally, all four Wild-Card series are broken down and analyzed with a prediction for the best-of-three series. INDEX: 0:00 – Intro 0:18 – Blue Jays win the AL East! 4:24 – How This Post-Season Will Affect the Next CBA 6:49 – Red Sox vs Yankees Preview 9:35 – Tigers vs Guardians Preview 12:10 – Reds vs Dodgers Preview 14:51 – Padres vs Cubs Preview 16:40 - Outro ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

Night Moves Show | Rays vs. Blue Jays MLB Betting Odds & Picks, 9/28/25 by Ramon Scott

Tampa Bay Rays vs. Toronto Blue Jays MLB Pick Prediction by Tony T. Rays at Blue Jays 3:05 PM ET—Ian Seymour will start for Tampa Bay. Seymour appeared in eighteen games carrying an ERA of 2.85 with WHIP of 1.08. The left hander fans 25.6% with 7.6% walks. Ground balls are 36.4% with 0.67 home runs per nine innings. Kevin Gausman gets the start for Toronto. Gausman got 31 starts posting an ERA of 3.47 with WHIP of 1.03. The right hander strikes out 24.4% with 6.4% walks. Ground balls come in at 35.7% with 1.00 home runs per nine innings.

Tampa Bay Rays vs. Toronto Blue Jays MLB Pick Prediction by Tony T. Rays at Blue Jays 3PM ET—Joe Boyle will start for Tampa Bay. Boyle appeared in 12 games with an ERA of 4.40 with WHIP of 1.34. The right hander fans 25.9% with 12.2% walks. Ground balls served at 41.9% with 1.15 home runs per nine innings. Trey Yesavage starts for Toronto. Yesavage in two starts allowed five earned runs with 11 strikeouts in 9 innings. A first-round pick in 2024 out of East Carolina who worked in four levels of the minors this year with a combined ERA of 3.12 and WHIP of 0.97

Night Moves Show | Rays vs. Blue Jays MLB Betting Odds & Picks, 9/27/25 by Ramon Scott

Night Moves Show | Rays vs. Blue Jays MLB Betting Odds & Picks, 9/26/25 by Tony T.

The playoff-bound Blue Jays were once riding high atop the AL East, but a punchless 10-day spiral, a combination of frustration, panic, tough calls and poor internal decisions, now sees them tied with the confident Yankees heading to the Final Four games. Decisions like Berrios to the bullpen, Bieber pushed back a day, Bassitt to the IL, Manoah cut loose after 14 months of intense rehab from elbow surgery, multiple ejections, gloomy dugout views, umpire blaming and more. The final out of the Wednesday game seemed typical, with Alejandro Kirk thrown out at first base from right field on a 104.1 mph one-hopper to Wilyer Abreu. Griff and Mal talk strange roster decisions, disappearing offence, the new ABS Challenge System for 2026, tributes to Kershaw (Dodgers) and Arenado (Cardinals), historic collapses and more. As well, the boys try to bounce back with this week's NFL Picks. Exit Philosophy will return on Monday with a special recap of the last weekend of the season. INDEX: 0:00 Intro 0:35 Kirk ends game thrown out at first 3:09 Expos History of 9-3 outs at first 6:01 Implications of Jays-Yankees final four 9:26 What happened to Jays rotation 15:00 The DFA of Alek Manoah 22:14 Controlling own fate … to now 26:14 Wherefore the Jays offence 29:54 Riding a hot bullpen, minus Berrios 39:52 In Hoff we trust 41:42 Clayton Kershaw and Nolan Arenado 45:36 Ranking Historic Collapses - Tigers, Mets 48:20 The '87 Blue Jays collapse 51:58 The Ball-Strike Challenge in '26 54:54 NFL Picks Week 4 ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/  

Night Moves Show | Red Sox vs. Blue Jays MLB Betting Odds & Picks, 9/25/25 by Ramon Scott.

Boston Red Sox vs. Toronto Blue Jays MLB Pick Prediction by Tony T. Red Sox at Blue Jays 7PM ET—Brayan Bello is starting for Boston. Bello appeared in 28 games carrying an ERA of 3.34 with WHIP of 1.24. The right hander strikes out 17.9% with 8.3% walks. Ground balls are 49.3% with 0.89 home runs per nine innings.

Night Moves Show | Red Sox vs. Blue Jays MLB Betting Odds & Picks, 9/24/25 by Ramon Scott.

Night Moves Show | Red Sox vs. Blue Jays MLB Betting Odds & Picks, 9/23/25 by Ramon Scott.

The new hate-on between Blue Jays and Yankees fans began with a catty observation by YES broadcaster Michael Kay and intensified lately with a calculated response from Buck Martinez questioning the Bronx Bombers. On this edition of Exit Philosophy, Griff and Mal discuss the role of Trey Yesavage, the future of Bo and Santander, the new leader in the clubhouse for AL manager of the year, the importance of the Jays at least winning one post-season series, the The impact of the Futures Showcase at Rogers Centre and more.  INDEX 0:00 Intro 0:24 Canadian Futures Showcase   6:04 In Memoriam Jim Baba, Ken Dryden, Robert Redford  13:20 Debut of Trey Yesavage and what can his role be.  18:32 Jays suggested post-season pitching staff 22:40 The impact of losing Bo and what to do about shortstop moving forward.  25:55 what to do with Santander  32:26 Jays vs Yankees. The Evil Empires, eh! 39:46 Should Yesavage start again 44:20 The Jays road to the AL No. 1 seed and the revised Top 3 for Manager of the year  51:50 In praise of the Jays defence and MLB making Sept. relevant.  1:01:25 NFL picks for Week 3  ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

The MLB most recent ranking of the Top 20 starting pitchers in the game does not include any Blue Jays, even though Toronto's rotation, as a group, remains highly regarded. With RH Kevin Gausman's two-hit complete game vs. the Astros, how does he not make that list. Exit Philosophy makes a compelling case for Jose Berrios being included in the playoff rotation ahead of Chris Bassitt. Mal and Griff discuss the ramifications of the Bo Bichette injury and circumstances that may have led to his awkward slide at home plate that led to a sprained knee and the IL. Hall-of-Famer Pedro Martinez describes his reaction to the Yankees sign-stealing in the Bronx and his ear-flap solution. Who would be the worst matchup for the Jays in the post-season. The Top 5 Week 2 NFL Picks from Mal and Griff and far more. Please remember to subscrbe, like, share and leave a review wherever you listen!   INDEX: 00:00 Intro 00:23 Gausman importance 6:14 Jays rotation in September, Lauer and the playoffs 12:24 Who gets the ball, Berrios or Bassitt 18:01 Giving up on Orelvis Martinez 23:19 The immediate future of Anthony Santander 25:51 Disrespect from MLB for Jays rotation 28:53 Can the Jays in October get hotter than they have been since August 16 34:46 Cause and effect of Bo's injured knee 45:50 Pedro's ear-flap solution to Yankees sign-stealing. 51:07 Hand-picking Jays best match-up playoff opponent 53:32 NFL Week 2 picks and wrapup ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

The Blue Jays may indeed be receiving Herculean efforts from the lineup and the starting rotation, but when it comes to closing out ballgames, the bullpen and the way the relievers are being used are clearly their Achilles' Heel. Griff and Mal discuss the Jays' relief corps individually and consider whether it can be improved. And what about Trey Yesavage? The danger sign showed up in the Reds series, allowing 23 runs. Three games, yet winning two. Exit Philosophy recounts the sports world's issues of the week…Kahwi and the Clippers, Boone and the Yankees, Framber's hissy-fit, who are the legit AL East contenders, and more. We rank the Jays Top 3 players of the year, plus it's NFL Week 1, and we give you each of our Top 5 best bets. Like, subscribe, and leave a review wherever you listen! INDEX: 0:00 - Intro 1:25 - Thoughts on Kawhi Leonard/Clippers Scandal and Salary Cap in Sports 8:00 - Yankees Fallout and Umpire Frustrations vs Houston in Loss 12:45 - Did Framber Valdez Cross Up His Catcher on Purpose? 18:27 - Roman Anthony Out for Season, What is Red Sox Outlook? 22:10 - Will There be a 100 Win Team This Year? 27:15 - Recapping the Blue Jays/Reds Series and What Is Going on With The Pitching? 34:42 - Blue Jays Defensive Limitations 36:40 - The Bullpen and What NEEDS to Happen 50:50 - Trey Yesavage Is Ready to Pitch Out of the Pen 54:30 - Who is the Blue Jays 2025 MVP?  58:25 - Week 1 NFL picks ATS  1:05:21 - Outro ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

The Blue Jays know it's crunch time and manager John Schneider has worked the rotation to have his three best starts vs. the Brewers then in the Bronx. Griff and Mal discuss extra rest for Lauer, making the bullpen great again, AL Top 5 MVPs, the importance of avoiding the Wildcard round, shoutouts to Cito Gaston, Markham's Jonah Tong called up to the Mets and more. Please remember to subscribe, like this episode and leave a review of Exit Philosophy! ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/  

On this weeks episode of Exit Philosophy, Griff and Mal reflect on the series vs Pittsburgh and Tommy Pham's infamous ball four bat flip. Will Shane Bieber force the hands of the Blue Jays brass and insert himself at the top of the rotation and who will get bumped? Rob Manfred keeps making headlines, this time about league realignment and expansion. Canadian slugger Owen Caissie is just starting his big league career, and some other happenings around Major League Baseball.  Please subscribe, like and leave a review wherever you listen. INDEX: 0:00 Intro  1:32 Pirates series discussion. Why Pham is fleeting 5:30 Vlad's aching hamstring and a series they needed to win 12:02 Yankees, other chasers and the comfort of reaching 90 wins 17:14 Rotation abundance of riches and is Lauer now a reliever  25:35 Setting up a playoff Rotation  36:06 Rob Manfred's worst laid plans…expansion, realignment and more 48:46 Shoutout to Owen Caissie and more. Astros woes, Wheeler surgery.  55:41 Final thoughts and more.  ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

For a rare appearance in front of Blue Jays media, team president Mark Shapiro talks about his future with Rogers ownership as he nears the end of his contract. On Exit Philosophy, Griff and Mal discusses Shapiro's views on the evolution of his manager John Schneider, what his lukewarm comments on negotiations with Bo Bichette might mean, the success of the team compared to 2024 and more. The boys explain the importance of Mason Fluharty's huge strikeout of Shohei Ohtani and how it may have saved the psyche of the clubhouse. Heading to September, will the lefty combo of Brendon Little and Fluharty, if they are joined by Eric Lauer, be an advantage. It may be that Sahlen Field in Buffalo was the place to be this week, with Alek Manoah, Trey Yesavage and Shane Bieber all getting a chance to start for the AAA-Bisons. Also, is 90 wins the target for the Blue Jays to safely earn a playoff spot … and more. Subscribe, like and leave a review we would really appreciate it! INDEX: 0:00 Intro  0:37 The media avail of Mark Shapiro 5:20 Shapiro on Shapiro's future 10:43 Bo's future with the Jays 23:02 Manager John Schneider performance review and question of an extension 31:25 Shapiro remembers the anniversary of the start of the ‘94 strike and the Indians 34:34 The impact of Fluharty's strikeout of Ohtani in L A. 41:05 Building a late-season Jays bullpen with 3 lefties and Yesavage 46:36 Building a shortened playoff rotation 49:37 Targeting 90 wins for the Jays 55:27 Raleigh or Judge for AL MVP 59:39 Ironbacks summary and looking ahead ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

3:37 - ICEBREAKER: Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau rumoured to be dating. 12:24 - Toronto Blue Jays: How surprised is the panel to see the Jays' success this season?  22:44 - Should we be surprised with the Jays' success this season?  31:28 - Is there a stigma for baseball players to play in Canada or play in a division with the Yankees and Red Sox? 41:50 - Shane Bieber trade49:49 - Bo Bichette's future with Toronto55:26 - Could MLB see a work stoppage once CBA expires. Should baseball install a salary cap? 1:05:07 - Should pro sports do something about teams who don't spend money to attract/keep players? 1:08:48 - Should ‘no-trade clauses' be forbidden in sports? 1:11:54 - Are 'super teams' a good thing to have in sports?  1:16:58 - Is parity more enjoyable for sports fans, or are ‘super teams' more of an attraction? 1:28:00 - STRAIGHT FACTS / BRO RELAXVictoria Mboko will win a tennis major before the end of the '27 season. 1:32:08 - Auston Matthews will average more points per game this season compared to last season. 

The Blue Jays are the Beasts of the East, the hunted not the hunters in this race to the title in what has traditionally been the toughest division in baseball. How did they get there and what about the Yankees and Red Sox. Did Bo Bichette win the bet on himself when he didn't sign any of the deals that have been offered by the Jays over the past several years and what kind of total value, or AAV could he expect? Does Bo know shortstop or could he do a Marcus Semien? The Yankees seem like a good fit as a new home for the Jays shortstop this coming offseason. How would Bo look in pinstripes? Griff and Mal discuss the well-documented clubhouse confrontation between Phillies star Bryce Harper and MLB Commissioner. Was there a message to his madness and how big an influence was his super-agent Scott Boras? What about when RH Shane Bieber is ready to start in the majors again coming off Tommy John. It's a great problem to have, deciding whether to go with a six man rotation for the final seven trips through the rotation or the traditional five. LH Eric Lauer has been the most consistent starter but he could be the odd-man out. Are the Blue Jays getting the proper respect from national media and their own fan-base? Why not? Ross Atkins deserves some credit for filling the need for two more hard throwing bullpen arms and a clear roll of the dice with Bieber. Should he have done more at the deadline? Finally, a heartfelt discussion between Mal and Griff about the expansion Niagara Ironbacks' experience in the Perfect Game Collegiate Summer League. With Mal as co-owner and GM and Griff as field manager, the two compare memories of a team that despite a difficult season on the field, provided a culture that stayed bonded in the clubhouse and dugout. INDEX: 0:00 Intro 2:25 - As Bichette steps up offensively so does his price tag. Will he remain at short. 14:44 - Tale of the tape Manfred vs. Bryce Harper clubhouse dustup 21:12 - Do Blue Jays get the respect they deserve and why not? 25:43 - What to do with Shane Bieber and the existing 5-man rotation. 33:57 - Who is the Jays main threat in the AL East, Red Sox or Yankees  41:13 - In praise of Ross Atkins. 46:40 - Will the prospect capital sent away at the deadline haunt the Jays? 49:49 - The Jays have a record $75.6M on the IL. Significance?  52:47 - A tribute to the Niagara Ironbacks expansion season and a reaffirmation of why we love baseball and team sports. 59:11 - Outro ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

Coming out of one of the busiest MLB trade deadline days in recent memory, the Blue Jays feel they may have completed their shopping list, adding a former Cy Young Award winner, a right handed bat and a hard throwing reliever to go with Seranthony Dominguez obtained from the O's two days earlier. Was that enough for Ross Atkins and the Jays to rank among the Top 6 winners heading down the stretch and what's the best way to coax a rehabbing Shane Bieber remaining healthy into October? Rich Griffin rolls solo for this episode with Mal set to return next week.  Please like, subscribe and leave a review whereever you listen to the Exit Philosophy Podcast.  INDEX: 0:00 Intro 1:00 How O's disaster forced Jays hand  2:22 Zane Smith vs. Seranthony Dominguez  4:28 Bieber and a 6-man rotation 8:30 Trade with the Twins 11:35 Shape of the pen 12:25 Top 6 Deadline winners 26:1 Wrap-up of busy day ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

In this episode of Exit Philosophy, Griffin and Mal discuss the All-star game with all its tweaks, like Mic'd up players, the limited challenge system and the swing off to end a tie. What about the Blue Jays and the 2025 draft. Is scouting director Marc Tramuta bringing a new philosophy? What about Vlad? Is he worth all that money and being the All-Star starting first baseman? Then with the trade deadline approaching, why do they need more bullpen help.  Subscribe, like and leave a review wherever you listen or watch your podcasts. INDEX: 0:00 Blue Jays first half and AL East resurgence. 2:11 The Tigers dominate the fading AL Central. 3:29 Tribute to the late Jim Clancy 8:22 All-Star Game opinions 13:08 Mic'd up players at the ASG 16:00Pitch challenges at ASG 21:07 what intangibles separate Vlad and Alejandro Kirk 23:36 Did the Miz deserve all-star invite for Brewers 27:01 Is HR Derby in danger of becoming Slam Dunk competition 30:26 Evaluating Blue Jays draft and rating scouting director Marc Tramuta 38:12 What is Vlad's worth beyond the statistics 43:52 Why is nobody talking about Bo 46:38 History of 8th overall pick through the years. 48:22 The Bullpen as Achilles Heel 52:26 Ironbacks update ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

The Blue Jays are arriving at the All-Star break with an unexpected lead in the once-again powerful AL East. How did their once-ridiculed farm system create a lineup with this much significant length from unexpected sources? What do the Jays need to do at the trade deadline to maintain a 95-win pace? Was George Springer the biggest All-Star snub and what about Max Scherzer as a legacy selection? The MLB Draft is at hand and the Jays have had just 5 major-leaguers out of the last five drafts. And is it a PR disaster for ownership to jack the price of streaming Jays games by 30% in Sept? Then there's the Ironbacks. Leave a review, like and subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts.  INDEX: Time stamp 7-11 0:00 Intro  1:04 The MLB Draft 4:58 The Jays Great ‘24 draft 8:40 Draft stories from the Past 12:38 Drafting Brett, Schmidt, and Dan Warthen back-to-back 15:13 Jays all-stars. Did MLB miss the boat on Springer and Scherzer? 24:18 How did Jays get to this point? 27:13 Can Jays sustain and maintain in AL East using trade deadline? 35:18 Anthopoulos and the ‘14 Jays clubhouse revolt at the deadline 38:47 Jays length vs Yankees depth. How the farm system contributed 44:55 Roger's+ package price increase in Sept. Why?  49:19 Shoutout to Jays social media  51:06 Ironbacks report ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

Coming off a break from the Exit Philosophy podcast, Griff and Mal return with plenty to talk about as the Blue Jays complete a four-game sweep of the Yankees to take over top spot in the resurgent AL East. How have the Jays gone from two games below .500 on May 28 to the current status of battling for first with the Yanks and Rays? What have been the biggest surprises for this Jays team over the first 88 games? Who are the most important players? What about the injuries? Did injuries to Anthony Santander, Andres Gimenez and Daulton Varsho, in fact, allow the team to discover some diamonds in the rough that have made this lineup deeper and stronger? Griff and Mal discuss the Blue Jays' major need at the trade deadline and the state of the starting rotation, given the iffy status of Max Scherzer and the likelihood Eric Lauer will suffer some sort of lull later in the year. Will they add an arm? The '25 All-Star Game is almost at hand, and Vlad Guerrero Jr. has earned the starting nod at first base with Alejandro Kirk as the AL's second catcher. Does Vlad's season thus far warrant him being deserving starter? What should be the criteria for being an all-star? They discuss the MLB's biggest trade of the year and the lingering anger in Boston over Rafael Devers being dealt to the Giants. Was Devers being selfish, or did the Red Sox front office mishandle the situation of Alex Bregman taking Raffy's position with no discussion. Finally, there's an Ironbacks report and update, after half a season at historic George Taylor Field in St. Catharines. Mal and Griff give their impressions on the newest team in the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League. INDEX: 0:00 Intro   2:36 Other sports clear the way as Raptors fire Ujiri + Shai Gilgeous Alexander and growing the sport  8:29 Florida Panthers repeat Stanley Cup. How close were the Leafs? 10:23 The Blue Jays historic run of 33 games and reading into current slim run differential 17:36 Blue Jays four biggest surprise players  29:25 Analyzing the starting rotation in the age of Lauer and Scherzer 36:00 Biggest Potential Buzz Kills for the Jays hopes   42:50 Analysis of Rafael Devers deal to Giants. Selfish?   47:33 Vlad is the AL all-star starting first baseman. Should he be? 51:42 Niagara Ironbacks Update. Learning to love long bus rides and tallboys. ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

Spreadsheet Play of the day | Phillies vs. Blue Jays MLB Prediction, 6/3/25 by Ron Crawford.

 The Blue Jays leave home having swept the powerful Padres in three games to complete a 5-4 homestand and now play six, in Tampa (3) and Texas (3). This week's Exit Philosophy has Griff and Mal weighing in on the big sports story of the moment in Toronto, the Maple Leafs and their parting of ways with president Brendan Shanahan. Are there comparisons with the Jays organization and should Shanahan have been given a media platform on the way out the door. Griff describes a similar situation in the ‘90s with fired manager Buck Rodgers. Is this the moment for the Jays with six primary outfielders, to give a banged-up Anthony Santander 10 IL days to get healthy and regroup? The Jays bullpen has stepped up and is as deep as anyone can remember…except for some blips on the Jeff Hoffman radar. Do they keep him in the closer role? A look at how good MLB teams with slow starts have bounced back and how that reflects on the Jays. The Top 5 List of position players born in the ‘80s is amazingly thin and how is that a caveat for Vlad in the final five seasons of his mega contract. Plus, a Niagara Ironbacks inaugural season (St. Catharines) is looming in the PGCBL.    INDEX: 0:00 Intro    0:22 Maple Leafs decision to let president Shanahan go   2:47 The Jays and the future of their president Shapiro  5:15 Vlad and Bo and the factor of no salary cap  10:13 Shanahan's no presser exit compared to Buck Rodgers   16:37 Homestand ends with sweep of Padres  22:29 Jays struggles in Tampa through the years    27:33 Santander, Springer and the crowded OF mix     31:40 What happens when Andres Gimenez returns  36:35 State of the Jays Bullpen    43:51 Jays Rotation and the looming crisis of 4-5 starters  50:18 Good teams rebounding from slow starts  55:36 Phillies emerge as Jordan Romano heats up  1:02:05 Top 5 List … MLB position players born in the ‘80s  1:08:13 Niagara Ironbacks Update     ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

Very quietly, the Blue Jays have been playing winning ball, since April 30, sabotaged far too often by inexplicable bullpen failures blowing leads in the 8th and 9th innings. In this week's Exit Philosophy, Mal and Griff discuss those woes that have left the Jays playing pickleball with.500. On Tuesday Commissioner Rob Manfred announced that all-time hits leader Pete Rose has had his ban lifted and he is no longer ineligible for the Hall-of-Fame. Why did baseball do this out of the blue and what does it do to Griff's respect and perception of MLB and the Hall. How much of this lifting of the ban was due to influence from the White House? The boys discuss the Rafael Devers situation and whether he is a proud superstar or bad teammate and could all this drama have been avoided. A Jays back-end of the rotation review, an update on the Niagara Ironbacks and more. Hit the subscribe button, like and leave a review wherever you listen!  INDEX: 0:00 Intro    0:38 Blue Jays bullpen steps up vs Rays   3:30 Leafs Playoff talk  6:32 Jays since April 30 could be far better  10:50 Up and down bullpen over 13 games  14:48 Back end of Jays rotation forecast  28:24 Jays injury update and Clement-Barger fill-in    30:49 Jays who's hot and who's not     33:51 Mal's Niagara Ironbacks update home opener June 7  37:44 Pete Rose eligibility restored. What about politics?    49:11 Red Sox and Rafael Devers position change. Who screwed up?  61:38 Remaining homestand doesn't get any easier   ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

The Blue Jays bullpen alarmingly turned three leads into losses on the way to a devastating four-game losing streak vs. the Guardians and Angels. Griff and Mal discuss how rare it is for a team's two highest leverage relievers to slump at the same time and are there any possible solutions. Recent roster changes include RH Spencer Turnbull and RH Jose Urena  aimed to solve the crisis that has emerged at the back-end of the rotation, filling in for Max Scherzer and after Easton Lucas and his brief two-start time as the answer. Discussing Alan Roden and if it was the right move to send him back to Triple-A in favour of the speedy OF Jonatan Clase. Plus, the Top 5 list of most disappointing teams in baseball andn should that include the Jays…and more.  ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

The Blue Jays somehow have arrived at the end of April just two games below .500 despite zero in the way of significant offence. Griff and Mal discuss the individual performances of the season's first month for Blue Jays hitters and what needs to happen to create a best possible batting order. The Exit Philosophy co-hosts discuss an all-of-a-sudden shaky back end of the rotation and what may have to become an answer. Away from baseball, there was the rogue father issues of Tyrese Haliburton (Pacers) and Shedeur Sanders (NFL), plus a look back at a great fund-raising event, a 1,000 person Gala, in Montreal at ExposFest, retiring the uniform numbers of nine former stars, raising over $300K with the major vehicle being a team that left town for Washington D.C. 20 years ago.   INDEX    0:00 Intro    0:59 Hockey Playoff comments  3:18 In praise of the Blue Jays heart  5:42 Haliburton and Sanders and dealing with sports parents  15:20 ExposFest in Montreal was a great show  19:15 April player-by-player review and how Jays are not buried   42:00 Best batting order vs. RHP     46:12 Revisiting the Kikuchi trade and what's at Buffalo   49:57 The back end of Rotation looking shaky   53:57 The Bullpen discussion   55:45 Top 5 April MVPs for Jays    58:58 Solutions for Jays current crisis  59:00 Ironbacks update   ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

The Blue Jays arrive at the end of April after a rollercoaster ride of fan optimism and despair. The shooting star that was LH Easton Lucas has departed leaving questions of where to go next. What about the batting order after a dismal performance in Houston? Is bringing Daulton Varsho back a stabilizing answer for what ails the Jays, and should George Springer be reintroduced to leadoff? Mal and Griff discuss the Top 5 teams in the latest power rankings and the AL's rookie class in 2025. All this and far more is in this week's Exit Philosophy. INDEX   0:00 Intro    0:52 Great time of year for Pro Sports  7:16 Solving the Jays April woes  11:40 Bo and the batting order  16:59 Rotation possibilities  26:23 Fall behind and feels like its over    27:52 When should we see Varsho     32:41 Organization OF depth  35:59 Oh what a relief it is   42:25 MLB Top 5 Teams   48:35 Ranking AL Rookies    58:58 Solutions for Jays current crisis  48:13 Top 5 List Jays strikeout games   1:02:37 Ironbacks update ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

    Should Blue Jays fans be encouraged by the solid start to the '25 season, even though there have been obvious flaws and an offence not clicking on all cylinders. Mal and Griff discuss that, plus what to make of the Vlad extension press conference, Max Scherzer's relationship with his replacement Easton Lucas and what it means to a new-look rotation, how high leverage bullpen pieces have come together and more. They talk about unusual injuries through the years, plus a Top 5 list of Jays strikeouts in a game, a list dominated by Roger Clemens. Finally, there's the disappointing way Jackie Robinson Day handled by the Dodgers and by MLB. INDEX: 0:00 Intro    1:26 Attendance Concerns  3:45 Jays early success in AL despite flaws  5:24 Easton Lucas and Max Scherzer  6:57 Team concept and Lineup Construct  11:46 In praise of NL West   14:59 Hoffman and the bullpen     19:42 Clues from the Vlad Presser  24:43 Roster Moves and Springer   33:55 Rotation and Leverage   37:53 Jackie Robinson    42:45 Freak Injuries  48:13 Top 5 List Jays strikeout games   1:01:05 Ironbacks update   ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

The biggest news of the Blue Jays week, of course, was the monstrous 14-year extension offered up to Vlad Guerrero Jr. In addition to outlining the dollar details, Mal and Griff explain the possible ripple effect of the third-largest total value contract in MLB history and what having Vlad, the face of the franchise, on board through 2039 could mean for Bo Bichette, to Mark Shapiro and Ross Atkins, for attendance at Rogers Centre and the trickle-down benefitting future free agents like Kyle Tucker. Should the Jays trade Bo if they think they can't afford both young stars. What about the Jays rotation and the improved length they are giving, compared to a year ago. Is Easton Lucas this year's Bowden Francis and who are the Top 5 homegrown Blue Jays starting pitchers, signed and developed since 2000. Plus, another week in which EP offers apologies to backup catcher Tyler Heineman, who has started the season like an all-star.     INDEX 0:00 Intro   0:31 Jackie Robinson Day and Clemente disrespect  4:00 Vlad tribute to victims of the DR disaster  9:22 Vlad's Contract and its ripple effect  12:34 What about Bo Bichette  17:10 Vlad deal impact on Mark and Ross   20:34 Does Vlad make Jays destination of choice     22:41 The Stadium renos and no roster rebuild  26:59 Vlad's contract details   34:30 Rotation impact without Scherzer  38:33 Internal surprises Roden and Lucas   41:37 Top 5 List Jays homegrown starters   1:00:41 Varsho update Heineman apology   ---- Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy ---- For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

Welcome to Episode 58 of TableSetters! We've got a lot to cover in today's episode, including some major moves in the MLB offseason. Max Scherzer's surprising signing with the Toronto Blue Jays, the reveal of MLB The Show 25 featuring three of the game's rising stars, and a key trade between the Cubs and Astros are all on the table. Plus, the Padres find themselves in the midst of a significant internal dispute that could impact their future. Let's dive right in. First up, Max Scherzer's unexpected move to the Blue Jays has raised a few eyebrows. The three-time Cy Young winner, who had a difficult 2024 season, is now joining a veteran heavy Toronto rotation on a one-year, $15.5 million deal. Paired with the likes of Kevin Gausman and Chris Bassitt, Scherzer could provide the experience the Blue Jays need to take their postseason push to the next level. But with the team's payroll nearing $273 million, it remains to be seen whether they're done making moves — and the rumors surrounding Pete Alonso only add more intrigue. Next, we're talking about the unveiling of MLB The Show 25, which features three of baseball's brightest young talents on the cover: Paul Skenes, Elly De La Cruz, and Gunnar Henderson. These rising stars are making waves in the league and represent the future of the game. Skenes, the NL Rookie of the Year and Cy Young finalist; De La Cruz, the speedster who stole 60 bases; and Henderson, the young slugger for the Orioles, are all players to watch as they continue to shape the future of Major League Baseball. On the trade front, the Cubs made a significant move by acquiring veteran closer Ryan Pressly from the Astros. The 36-year-old right-hander, known for his steady performance in Houston, will help solidify Chicago's bullpen as they aim for a deeper playoff run in 2025. In exchange, the Cubs sent young right-handed prospect Juan Bello and $5.5 million to Houston. This deal highlights the Cubs' commitment to competing, but rumors suggest they're not done yet — with talks of a potential Dylan Cease trade to further strengthen their rotation. And then there's the ongoing situation with the Padres. The franchise is currently facing not just trade talks but a serious legal dispute that could have a major impact on the team's future. A lawsuit filed by Sheel Seidler, widow of the late Padres owner Peter Seidler, is creating internal tension within the organization. This legal conflict could affect the Padres' financial flexibility and their ability to make moves in the free-agent market. The drama in San Diego is far from over, and it could have lasting consequences for the direction of the team. We also have a fun question to ponder today: Could José Altuve be the shortest left fielder in MLB history if the Astros were to move him to the outfield? We dive into this hypothetical situation and what it would mean for the team. In the spirit of video games and MLB The Show 25, Devin asks Steve who his go-to Mario Kart character is — a fun conversation to add some gaming flavor to today's episode! We'll be breaking down all these stories and more in today's episode, so stay tuned for in-depth analysis. Don't forget to follow us for exclusive updates and behind-the-scenes content on Instagram and X @TableSettersPod. And if you enjoy the show, make sure to like, subscribe, and share — your support helps us keep bringing you the latest MLB news.

Toronto Blue Jays discussion with MLB.com's Julia Kreuz     Join Our Patreon. (Discord here) Follow the podcast on instagram @thewalkoffpodcast. On Twitter @walkoffpodcast We are of course, on YouTube.