Podcast appearances and mentions of don kelly

The Pirates entered 2026 with playoff expectations, and with those hopes essentially gone, Don Kelly has become a popular target for frustrated fans. Alex Stumpf looks at what Kelly deserves blame for, what was outside of his control, and why firing him might not solve the Pirates' bigger problems. Alex also discusses the Gregory Soto decision in Chicago, Carmen Mlodzinski coming through in a huge spot, the handling of Paul Skenes, a season full of injuries and why 2027 could become one of the most important years in franchise history. OffBeat is presented by FanDuel. Subscribe to Alex Stumpf's Book-Rule Bucs Substack: https://bookrulebucs.substack.com/ Download the North Shore Nine app: https://northshorenine.com/get-app Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pirates return home at .500 after a 4-2 road trip, but this weekend in Chicago left plenty to talk about. On Monday's Bucco Brew, we get into Don Kelly's bullpen decisions, what the Skenes/Soto collapse says about late-game management, and whether Pittsburgh already has the core of its 2027 rotation. We'll also look at the offense with Ryan O'Hearn back, Esmerlyn Valdez hitting the IL, Konnor Griffin in the lineup, and ask how many pieces of next year's team are already here. Download our app! : https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-shore-nine/id6771171000 : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.northshorenine.app Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m #pittsburghpirates Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pirates let another winnable game get away, falling 4-3 to the Chicago Cubs after carrying a 3-2 lead into the eighth inning. Tyler and Doug break down Gregory Soto's disastrous eighth, Don Kelly's decision to leave him in as the inning unraveled, and the continued lack of urgency that has defined too much of this season. They also discuss a much better outing from Paul Skenes, Ryan O'Hearn providing all three Pirates runs with one swing, and why Mason Montgomery never entering the game was so frustrating. We're also raising money for the Roberto Clemente Museum and matching every dollar donated up to $1,050, with a goal of raising $2,100. Download the NS9 app: https://northshorenine.com/get-app Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pirates had chance after chance to win this game and simply couldn't finish the job. Pittsburgh battled back from a 3-1 deficit to force extra innings, but a costly defensive mistake, another rough night with runners in scoring position and two Giants runs against Camilo Doval in the 10th proved too much in a 5-4 loss. Jim and Neil break down Bubba Chandler's start, the Pirates going 1-for-12 with runners in scoring position through nine innings, Oneil Cruz continuing to produce since returning from the IL, Carmen Mlodzinski throwing three perfect innings out of the bullpen and Don Kelly's decision to turn to Doval in the 10th. The NS9 Postgame Show is powered by Primanti Brothers. North Shore Nine is presented by FanDuel. Download the NS9 app: https://northshorenine.com/get-app Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pirates lost in extra innings to the Giants and had plenty of opportunities to win the game. Camilo Doval was the reliever who lost the game. Jeff thinks Don Kelly's bullpen management has been better. Would you bring back Don Kelly? Bob would and isn't a fan of one and done. Would you bring back the GM?

The Pirates found a way to beat the Giants 13-12 after having a huge lead. Don Kelly pulled Paul Skenes after 4.2 innings and didn't give him another batter to qualify for the win. It became 12-12 and the bullpen blew it. Paul Skenes struggled once again. Mark Kaboly would shut him down. The Pirates are 41-31 when Oneil Cruz is in the lineup. Jeff Patton of Baseball Card Castle joined the show.

The Pirates held on for a 5-4 win over the Cardinals to take another road series, with Braxton Ashcraft capping off a stellar month of August. Jim and Doug break down another strong outing from Ashcraft, Esmerlyn Valdez going deep against a lefty, Oneil Cruz creating havoc on the bases, Brandon Lowe continuing his huge season and Mason Montgomery slamming the door in the ninth. They also discuss Don Kelly's bullpen management after Camilo Doval nearly let a three-run lead disappear. The NS9 Postgame Show is powered by Primanti Bros. and North Shore Nine is presented by FanDuel. Download the NS9 App: https://northshorenine.com/get-app Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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

The Pirates rallied to beat the Tigers, but the big issue is still Paul Skenes. After the team gave him a few extra days of rest, he struggled again – failing to finish 5 innings. We looked back to last night and watching Braxton Ashcraft mow down the Tigers over 8 innings in very quick manner. How should the Pirates handle Skenes for his next turn in the rotation? What options do the Pirates have here? They could skip his next turn in the rotation or give him a phantom IL stint (for a pitcher, 15 days in the minimum). A little piece of history today for Rafael Flores. Brandon Lowe has not been good in August, but hit his 27th homer today to win the game. What do the NL Wild Card standings look like right now? Manger's Minute – What did Don Kelly say after today's game?

Hour 1 with Joe Starkey: Joe and Austin are so upset about the Pirates. The 2026 Pittsburgh Pirates are the most frustrating team of Joe's life. Paul Skenes isn't himself, the offense isn't the same, and Don Kelly isn't doing enough for this team. There is anger for a lot of Pirates fans watching the rest of this season.

There is anger for a lot of Pirates fans watching the rest of this season. Don Kelly kept Yohan Ramirez in for 44 pitches during the sixth inning and allowed three runs. Kelly said the release point was off, but Ramirez was about to find a way to get through that. He lost the game. Joe would shut players down if this continues.

Joe and Austin are so upset about the Pirates. The 2026 Pittsburgh Pirates are the most frustrating team of Joe's life. Paul Skenes isn't himself, the offense isn't the same, and Don Kelly isn't doing enough for this team. Joe thinks it's the most excruciating and frustrating watch since he's been in Pittsburgh.

In this week's Winners and Boozers we shout out our buddy Matt Light and people who love tchotchkes, and say sorry to Don Kelly and Mason Rudolph.

In this week's Winners and Boozers we shout out our buddy Matt Light and people who love tchotchkes, and say sorry to Don Kelly and Mason Rudolph.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Braxton Ashcraft delivered the best start of his MLB career Thursday, tossing an 85-pitch complete game with 10 strikeouts against the Marlins. Alex Stumpf breaks down what made Ashcraft so dominant, why the return of his sinker mattered, why Don Kelly was right to let him finish and, most importantly, what this performance says about Ashcraft's workload and his place in the Pirates' 2027 rotation. Subscribe to Alex's Book Rule Bucs Substack: https://bookrulebucs.substack.com/ Download the North Shore Nine app: https://northshorenine.com/get-app North Shore Nine is presented by FanDuel. Download our app! : https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-shore-nine/id6771171000 : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.northshorenine.app Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ZY250XUYiS-yX7xOQCdLA/join Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m #pittsburghpirates Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pirates had their opportunity to get back into the Wild Card race. Instead, they went 2-4 against the Mets and Marlins and now sit 59-64, 5.5 games out of a playoff spot, last in the NL Central and 12th in the National League with just a 4% chance to reach the postseason. At this point, saying the season is essentially over isn't being dramatic. It's being realistic. Tonight on NS9LIVE!, we discuss Brandon Lowe's comments about the pressure surrounding these games, Don Kelly calling out the team's lack of fight after Wednesday's loss, and whether that message should have come much sooner. The Pirates responded with a 13-1 win today, but after winning just three of their previous 15 games, was it already too late? And even if the playoffs are no longer realistic, that can't become the mindset inside the clubhouse. There are still six weeks of baseball left. This team needs to compete, show some fight and play like there's still something on the line. Boston is next. Download our app! : https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-shore-nine/id6771171000 : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.northshorenine.app Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m #pittsburghpirates Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pirates killed their season in a span of 2 weeks. Carmen Mlodzinski was bad again. Callers aren't happy about Don Kelly.

The Pirates killed their season in a span of 2 weeks. Carmen Mlodzinski was bad again. Callers aren't happy about Don Kelly. We shout out Ryan Scarpino. Donny was at his alma mater this week and gave a speech to the team. Pirates fans trace the team's problems back to ownership. Will there be a lockout? We hear comments from Donny Kelly after last night.

It's finally a Steelers gameday again. Things finally feel different with a new coach. Patrick Graham went from a no-name defense with the Raiders to one littered with stars. Poni does a nice impression of Skinner's mom. Will Howard will play in a game for the first time in a long, long time. Allar has no pressure tonight. Roman Wilson and Germie Bernard should get some extended run. Dylan Cook will play but IMax is out. The Steelers can't play this like they did with Broderick Jones vs Dan Moore a few years ago. Lew Nichols could steal the show. Could Kaleb Johnson lose his spot? Daylen Everette and RSJ could get a chance to shine. We have suggestions for a new nickname for Austin. A caller wants more no-huddle. Another is excited about Rico Dowdle. A wrestling question is posed. The Pirates killed their season in a span of 2 weeks. Carmen Mlodzinski was bad again. Callers aren't happy about Don Kelly. We shout out Ryan Scarpino. Donny was at his alma mater this week and gave a speech to the team. Pirates fans trace the team's problems back to ownership. Will there be a lockout? We hear comments from Donny Kelly after last night. What was the downfall of the Pirates season? Elandon Roberts is back with the Steelers. Malik Harrison might be the odd man out. Packers reporter Tom Silverstein joins to discuss his perspective of the McCarthy and Rodgers dynamic, who might see time for the Packers tonight, how Rodgers approached preseason with the Pack, could Rodgers go rogue if the season falls apart. Chris Hoke jumps on to discuss his son's practice at Pitt, which Steelers he will be focused on tonight, Roman Wilsons's outlook, the battle at right tackle, the trio of edge rushers all playing together, what big changes he wants to see under McCarthy. What was Donny's first football jersey? We both had some obscure ones. Jeff Hathhorn stops in to discuss Pitt's football practice. Is Kaleb Johnson a cut candidate? The Wild Things have great promotions. What does Jeff Hathhorn predict of the Steelers' QB rotation. Will Lew Nichols have a moment tonight? The rookies in the secondary have a chance to state their case. What will everyone be talking about tomorrow?

Don Kelly said no one is healthy now and the players are grinding through things. Paul Skenes is not concerned about velocity and Jason would argue he does need more than 96 mph. Jason thinks taking Skenes out after 65 innings shows they think Skenes is fatigued. Jason doesn't think Skenes eases off at any time during the season or in the offseason with his strong training. He needs rest.

Bob talks to Pittsburgh sports fans about the Pirates bullpen, Skenes, Don Kelly, and sadness with the Pirates this season... We think something has to be wrong with Paul Skenes. Jeff Patton of Baseball Card Castle joined the show. The General has an Aaron Rodgers Topps Chrome Gold card.

Paul Skenes was pulled after 5 innings last night in Miami not because he was rocked or because he was laboring to nearly 100 pitches. Skenes was soft-tossing, by his standards, through the night – never topping 95 MPH. What is going on with him? Don Kelly explained why he pulled him and Paul explained why he didn't fight him. The 2025 Cy Young winner clearly has something wrong. The guys wondered if it was the World Baseball Classic and if he chose Team USA over the team that signs his checks in 2026.

Paul Skenes was pulled after 5 innings last night in Miami not because he was rocked or because he was laboring to nearly 100 pitches. Skenes was soft-tossing, by his standards, through the night – never topping 95 MPH. What is going on with him? Don Kelly explained why he pulled him and Paul explained why he didn't fight him. The 2025 Cy Young winner clearly has something wrong. The guys wondered if it was the World Baseball Classic and if he chose Team USA over the team that signs his checks in 2026. Listeners ponder what is wrong with Paul Skenes. Former Penguin Tyler Kennedy joined the show. The Penguins signed Ville Koivunen to an 8-year contract last week. How did a player of his magnitude get $32M guaranteed? He scored 7 points last season. TK talked about the cheap contract he signed to stay with the Penguins in a year he scored 20+ goals. Tyler said the points don't lie and he's unsure why the Penguins would offer this deal. TK thinks Koivunen can eclipse 20 goals, but it's a risk of a signing. Did it make other guys more valuable? Tyler said this is a big deal for someone like Ben Kindel and how he can leverage his performance for a new contract down the road. Tyler doesn't think Sidney Crosby did anything too crazy on his birthday.

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

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

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

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

The Pirates dropped three of four games in Milwaukee and have officially fallen into last place in the NL Central. They are now three games under .500, five games out of a Wild Card spot and sitting at just a 12.6% probability of reaching the postseason. Is the Pirates' season already over, or is there still enough time for them to recover? Ty Ty and DiNardo break down how Pittsburgh reached this point and what would need to happen for the team to climb back into the race. Mitch Keller has also been transferred to the 60-Day IL, opening another hole in the starting rotation. Don Kelly announced that Carmen Mlodzinski will return to the rotation and start Friday. Is Mlodzinski the best option, and could removing him from the bullpen create another problem for the Pirates? Plus, Austin Hays, Rob Refsnyder, Mitch Garver, Jorge Soler and Andrew McCutchen have all recently become available. After designating Marcell Ozuna for assignment, should the Pirates take a chance on any of them? @eddiep_photos Download our app! : https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-shore-nine/id6771171000 : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.northshorenine.app Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m #pittsburghpirates Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Things have changed drastically since the second half of the season started. Matt Clement joins the show! He says he is more impressed with the Brewers than upset about the Pirates. Matt says a big difference is that the Brewers win the games they are supposed to and the Pirates don't.

The Pirates have lost again to the Brewers by a final score of 5-2 today and are now in last place in the NL Central. The Pirates' bats have gone silent the last few days. They're missing the offense of Konnor Griffin, Oneil Cruz, Ryan O'Hearn, and now Esmerlyn Valdez is in a slump. After the trade deadline, the bullpen seems to be their best asset. Mullsy is bummed. Things have changed drastically since the second half of the season started. Matt Clement joins the show! He says he is more impressed with the Brewers than upset about the Pirates. Matt says a big difference is that the Brewers win the games they are supposed to and the Pirates don't. Nick Gonzales had a rough game. Poni thought the game was over when Jackson Chourio hit a solo home run in the bottom of the first. We listen to Don Kelly speak after the Pirates dropped three of four to the Brewers.

Mark Madden calls in to discuss Mike McCarthy's ability to develop Will Howard and Drew Allar, and to debate if Don Kelly is on the hot seat now.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark Madden calls in to discuss Mike McCarthy's ability to develop Will Howard and Drew Allar, and to debate if Don Kelly is on the hot seat now.

Adam Crowley reacts to the ejection of Pirates' manager Don Kelly in Tuesday's game against the Milwaukee Brewers that has since sparked some discussion about how necessary it was.

It was huge for perception sake that the Pirates won last night. It took too long, but Cherington got his man. Most of the other competitors did more. Joe will grade the Buccos from here on out with a clean slate. The return of Cruz should be massive. There's still concerns about the rotation. Skenes is still the key to the rest of the season. Cherington gets a B. We listen to the drive-thru call with Dan Zan and then we hear from that caller. There's still some criticism that Cherington didn't have more money with which to work. Don Kelly had a good night last night. The fans went from ready to throw in the towel after Sunday to excitement after last night. 

It was huge for perception sake that the Pirates won last night. It took too long, but Cherington got his man. Most of the other competitors did more. Joe will grade the Buccos from here on out with a clean slate. The return of Cruz should be massive. There's still concerns about the rotation. Skenes is still the key to the rest of the season. Cherington gets a B. We listen to the drive-thru call with Dan Zan and then we hear from that caller. There's still some criticism that Cherington didn't have more money with which to work. Don Kelly had a good night last night. The fans went from ready to throw in the towel after Sunday to excitement after last night. Nick Farabaugh is live from camp to discuss IMAX and if he will start this season, Asante Samuel Jr, how the QB reps have been split, Drew Allar's ups and downs, who is in the lead for backup QB, a positive development with Kaleb Johnson, Roman Wilson vs Bernard, his perspective on the fans fight over an autograph. Dan Zangrilli was at his best last night. We hear his greatest hits from 2026. John Perotto joins to give his impression of the Pirates trade deadline, what's going on with Paul Skenes, how he'd deploy the bullpen, how this trade deadline felt different than past years, and if the Pirates will make the playoffs. Callers weigh in and give their Pirates' deadline grades. Fort McKenry jumps on to discuss the bullpen additions, Bubba Chandler, Skenes' velocity and changing his arsenal, how catchers acclimate to new pitchers, what strategy he'd use in extra innings, is Jared Jones will start going deeper, if the PIrates should've done more by adding a SP or a bat. Joe's mailbag - the Steelers cap outlook, Joe's dream job. Austin finally calls in at the last second and talks about trying to meet Drew Allar.

We listen to the drive-thru call with Dan Zan and then we hear from that caller. There's still some criticism that Cherington didn't have more money with which to work. Don Kelly had a good night last night. The fans went from ready to throw in the towel after Sunday to excitement after last night

The Pirates received everything they could have reasonably expected from a bullpen game, but the offense failed to deliver in a 3-2 walk-off loss to the Cincinnati Reds. Tyler and Jim discuss Yohan Ramirez's continued dominance, Hunter Barco escaping trouble, Mason Montgomery's perfect seven-pitch inning and the decision to remove him before the ninth. They also examine the Pirates' missed opportunities, Jhostynxon Garcia's struggles, Gregory Soto's costly walk and Don Kelly's decision to pinch-run Billy Cook for Esmerlyn Valdez. Pittsburgh has now lost five of seven and fallen back to .500. Pinned comment: What frustrated you most tonight: the offense failing with the bases loaded, Mason Montgomery being pulled after seven pitches or the Billy Cook pinch-running decision? : https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-shore-nine/id6771171000 : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.northshorenine.app Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ZY250XUYiS-yX7xOQCdLA/join Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m #pittsburghpirates Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this hour, Adam Crowley discusses how many of the Pirates' current issues manager Don Kelly should be responsible for. Also, Pirates' broadcaster Greg Brown comes on The Fan Hotline. July 31, 2026, 6:00 Hour

In this week's "Beyond the Bylines." Joe Starkey and Tim Benz pick apart Don Kelly's failed bullpen decisions against the Reds Thursday night, upcoming trade deadline moves, and a suddenly struggling Pirates offense. We also talk about Week 1 of Steelers training camp. Specifically, we get into DK Metcalf, Mike McCarthy shelving tackling at training camp, and Joey Porter Jr.'s contract. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Joe, Austin, and Donny Football went to the game with listener Steve in Latrobe. Don Kelly didn't have an issue with Bubba Chandler's game. He allowed five runs over four innings. Denzel Ward signed for two years, $62 million with $52 million guaranteed. Joey Porter Jr. is going to command a big contract. Joe shares the story of getting a tattoo.

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

This is becoming the "protect your pitching investment" era of baseball. Callers chime in on who the Pirates should acquire. More callers give their Pirates proposals. Does Cherington have more sway than Don Kelly when it comes to how long a starting pitcher goes? Austin Hedges back to Pittsburgh?? Paul in Washington isn't a happy camper about Don Kelly

Tyler Kennedy joins to discuss Joe and Bob being on vacation, Jason Robertson signed a 1-year deal with Dallas. The Zach Werenski domino has changed everything. TK could tell what visiting city he was in based solely on the players' vehicles. Will the Pens do anything else notable with Robertson off the board? The Flyers are in a better place than the Pens right now. Patrick Kane got an absurd contract to return to Chicago. Will the Pens have a Russian connection? TK talks about the significance of a number for a hockey player. Was the Blackhawks dynasty better than the Pens? Is Kane the best American born hockey player ever? TK compliments Limits' mustache. Is Austin going to do a Pittsburgh dating show? The Pirates got two great starts on Wednesday, but the bullpen faltered once more. Chandler had one of his best starts ever. DK made a horrible decision. A caller gives his take. Colin Beazley joins to give his thoughts on the game-ending replay challenge, the decision to pull Chandler, who the internal bullpen options are, how much longer Ozuna be on the roster, if the Pirates should extend Valdez soon and his great approach, Jacob Gonzalez's future role, Brandon Lowe's struggles, is Oneil Cruz could be moved, who Colin would be willing to trade. This is becoming the "protect your pitching investment" era of baseball. Callers chime in on who the Pirates should acquire. More callers give their Pirates proposals. Does Cherington have more sway than Don Kelly when it comes to how long a starting pitcher goes? Austin Hedges back to Pittsburgh?? Paul in Washington isn't a happy camper about Don Kelly. Jeff Hathhorn joins to discuss Brandon Eisert's woes, if Bubba Chandler could be traded, the replay review to end the game, more Mason Miller proposals. If you could add any player to the Pirates for the rest of 2026, regardless of contract and trade compensation, who would you pick? Skubal? Ohtani? PCA? Or still Mason Miller?

More callers give their Pirates proposals. Does Cherington have more sway than Don Kelly when it comes to how long a starting pitcher goes? Austin Hedges back to Pittsburgh?? Paul in Washington isn't a happy camper about Don Kelly. 

Bubba Chandler put together the best start of his career last night, but the Pirates were shutout by the Yankees in the second game of their doubleheader. The offense scoring 0 is a story, but not the big one. With Chandler cruising into the 7th inning, Don Kelly pulled him from Brandon Eisert. Predictably, the Yankees immediately scored twice to take a 2-0 lead (where the score would stay). Was it preplanned? Why can't the Pirates push aside the script if someone gives them reason to? The guys brought up times this year when a pitcher is pulled well ahead of when the team would like, so why not have the same energy now? The lack of feel has grown in the wrong direction.

Bubba Chandler had maybe his best start of the season yesterday, and Don Kelly pulled him at 84 pitches. Matt Capps did not sound like he was pleased with this decision on the broadcast. Mullsy now thinks that Bubba Chandler should be borderline untouchable, mostly because he doesn't think the return on a trade would be nearly good enough. Poni thinks that Bubba Chandler might be the best athlete on the Pirates' roster, including Konnor Griffin. Chandler is also only 23. KDKA TV's Bob Pompeani joined the show. Bob tells the guys about how he maintains his great hair. Bob thinks that it was predetermined that Bubba Chandler was going to get pulled at some form of pitch limit, because if that was not the case it would not have made sense to pull him. Bob also thinks that part of this is Don Kelly's decision, not just the front office's. Bob says that he would trade Bubba Chandler for Mason Miller straight up, if given the opportunity. Power Rankings – Top 5 Steelers with something to prove in camp.

Bubba Chandler put together the best start of his career last night, but the Pirates were shutout by the Yankees in the second game of their doubleheader. The offense scoring 0 is a story, but not the big one. With Chandler cruising into the 7th inning, Don Kelly pulled him from Brandon Eisert. Predictably, the Yankees immediately scored twice to take a 2-0 lead (where the score would stay). Was it preplanned? Why can't the Pirates push aside the script if someone gives them reason to? The guys brought up times this year when a pitcher is pulled well ahead of when the team would like, so why not have the same energy now? The lack of feel has grown in the wrong direction. A tough call for the final out last night. The guys wanted to hear more heat from Don Kelly on the umpires, even in a game that was a shutout loss. Pirates insider Jason Mackey joined the show. Did the front office push for Don Kelly to pull Bubba Chandler last night? The guys wanted to know the predetermined nature of decisions like the one made last night. Should we be concerned about Brandon Lowe and Ryan O'Hearn, who are both in the midst of a rough drought? Jason projects Spencer Horwitz to return ‘this weekend' and Oneil Cruz possibly in the next 2 weeks. Jason said the report of the Pirates not spending extra cash at the deadline is ‘baloney.' Jason doesn't think there will be a half measure taken this time around.

Hour 1 with Jeff Hathhorn: Mitch Keller is statistically one of the worst pitchers in baseball the last two months. His ERA is over five and can't figure out what to fix on the mound. Pirates fans react to Don Kelly. Some fans still want to trade from the Major League team. Who should be the Pirates closer, if they kept this 'pen? Closer Jay wants the Pirates to put Mason Montgomery in the 9th. Jeff Patton of Baseball Card Castle joined the show.

Pirates fans react to Don Kelly. Some fans still want to trade from the Major League team. Who should be the Pirates closer, if they kept this 'pen? Closer Jay wants the Pirates to put Mason Montgomery in the 9th. Jeff Patton of Baseball Card Castle joined the show.

Billy Cook did a little bit of everything Sunday, collecting three hits, driving in a run, scoring twice, stealing a base and making a run-saving throw as the Pittsburgh Pirates took the series from the Cleveland Guardians. Alex Stumpf breaks down Cook's complete performance, how he has embraced one of baseball's most difficult bench roles and why he might be the perfect role player for Don Kelly's Pirates. Read more from Alex at Book Rule Bucs: https://bookrulebucs.substack.com/ North Shore Nine is presented by FanDuel. Download our app! : https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-shore-nine/id6771171000 : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.northshorenine.app Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ZY250XUYiS-yX7xOQCdLA/join Use Promo Code NS930 for 30% off your first order at https://www.defer.coffee Use Promo Code NORTHSHORENINE for $20 off your first order at https://www.seatgeek.com LIKE and SUBSCRIBE with NOTIFICATIONS ON if you enjoyed the show! NS9 MERCH: https://northshorenine.myshopify.com ►Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NorthShoreNine ►Website: https://www.northshorenine.com ►Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/northshorenine ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@northshorenine ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northshorenine ►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northshorenine ►Discord: https://discord.gg/3HVYPg544m #pittsburghpirates Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.