Podcasts about post gazette

The Post-Gazette's Adam Bittner and Jason Mackey size up the NFL free agent wide receiver market now that Aaron Rodgers is officially in the fold for the Steelers as QB. Should GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin be targeting Amari Cooper as one of the biggest names remaining? Allen Lazard as one of Rodgers' personal favorites? Or could they still convince Keenan Allen to come to Pittsburgh to play alongside names like DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson and Robert Woods? Our duo tackles those topics, as well as Jason's column on why Rodgers is the most important person in Pittsburgh sports right now. Then the guys pivot to hockey ahead of the NHL draft later this week. Should GM Kyle Dubas look to trade up? Or hold onto both of his first-round picks? Could he move draft capital to add firepower around Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang? Move out bad contracts to guys Erk Karlsson, Ryan Graves and Tristan Jarry? Or could names like Rickard Rakell and Bryan Rust be on the trade block? Then in the third segment, airing on the PG's Pirates YouTube channel, Adam and Jason analyze recent hot streaks for players including Spencer Horwitz and Nick Gonzales. Are they sustainable in the long run or just the latest flashes in the plan? Could those two guys preserve GM Ben Cherington's job by playing well? What should manager Don Kelly do with the struggling Oneil Cruz? Why is Bubba Chandler having trouble in the minors? And should Andrew McCutchen have a roster spot with this team next year if he continues to perform?

On the Wednesday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, the Post-Gazette's Christopher Carter and Adam Bittner react to Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers announcing his intent to retire after 2025. Is he serious? Or is there still room for him to return if things go well? And would GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin even want him back as they look toward a long-term solution at the position in the form of top NFL draft prospects like Arch Manning, Drew Allar, Nico Iamaleava, Cade Klubnik and Garrett Nussmeier in the NFL draft? Our duo tackles those questions, then analyzes players stepping into important leadership roles. Can Zach Frazier be a true foundation for the offensive line and aid in the development of players like Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu and Mason McCormick? And will DK Metcalf bring a professionalism to the WRs room that's lacked in recent years from names like Antonio Brown, Chase Claypool, Diontae Johnson and George Pickens?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise explains why he feels the Steelers, Penguins and Pirates can all learn valuable lessons from the Oklahoma City Thunder's run to an NBA championship this season. For the Steelers, he looks at the Thunder's willingness to deal star Paul George in exchange for current stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and wonders if GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin should be more willing to part with names like T.J. Watt, Minkah Fitzpatrick and Cam Heyward in pursuit of draft capital. On the Penguins front, he feels GM Kyle Dubas could benefit from a willingness to move on from Stanley Cup winners like Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang. And with regard to the Pirates, he sees a need for greater player development than the club has demonstrated under GM Ben Cherington.

On the Monday episode of the North Shore Drive podcast, presented by Edgar Snyder and Associates, the Post-Gazette's Christopher Carter and Adam Bittner react to rumors tying the Steelers to Miami Dolphins CB Jalen Ramsey. Should GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin move aggressively to make a move to add a former All-Pro alongside names like Joey Porter Jr., Darius Slay Jr. and Cory Trice Jr.? Or is sitting tight the right move ahead of training camp and the preseason, when other names might become available across the league? The guys also give their thoughts on Jaire Alexander signing with the Baltimore Ravens. Should Khan be trying to keep up with the AFC North rival in a roster arms race? Or is keeping NFL draft capital with an eye toward the loaded QB class that could include names like Arch Manning, Drew Allar, Nico Iamaleava and Cade Klubnik the more prudent course? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to reporting from Steelers insider Gerry Dulac that the Aaron Rodgers signing and George Pickens trade this offseason were unrelated events as far as coach Mike Tomlin, GM Omar Khan and the front office were concerned. Was it wise to think of the moves separately? Or would it have been interesting to see Pickens work with a veteran like Rodgers across from DK Metcalf? And what should we make of external evaluations that have the Steelers with one of the worst WR rooms in the NFL without Pickens? As Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson and Robert Woods look to fill the void he left?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to ponder some Steelers over/unders for the 2025 season. Will Aaron Rodgets surpass 3,200 yards and 22 touchdowns? Will either Jaylen Warren or Kaleb Johnson threaten the 1,000-yard mark? Can DK Metcalf get over the 1,000-yard threshold that's been a problem for Steelers receivers including George Pickens in recent years? And how many sacks will T.J. Watt record? Our duo tackles those questions, plus some Penguins topics. Can GM Kyle Dubas and new coach Dan Muse return this club to Stanley Cup caliber in short order? Or is there too big a gap with the back-to-back champion Florida Panthers right now? What should we make of conflicting reports about Evgeni Malkin's future? Will this season definitely be his last in the NHL? Or could he come back for another chance to win next to Sidney Crosby and Kris Letang? And how seriously should we take a potential sale of the team back to Mario Lemieux and Ron Burkle? Then in the third segment, airing on the PG's Pirates YouTube channel, the guys talk about malaise that has set in after an encouraging early run from manager Don Kelly's team following Derek Shelton's firing. Are fans beginning to tune out? Why hasn't Ben Cherington made a move to salvage the season, as owner Bob Nutting had suggested might be possible? Could Ke'Bryan Hayes and Mitch Keller be among names that are moved before the trade deadline? Why hasn't Tommy Pham been cut yet? And did the Pirates miss an opportunity to create some must-see TV by matching up Paul Skenes and Tarik Skubal during a double header against the Detroit Tigers?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to ESPN's NFL quarter-century team released this week, which included only two Steelers on the 53-man roster. Why were Alan Faneca and Troy Polamalu the only names to make the cut? Did T.J. Watt deserve a spot over the Browns' Myles Garrett? And were names including Aaron Rodgers, Ben Roethlisberger, Le'Veon Bell, Antonio Brown, Chris Boswell, Cam Heyward, Hines Ward, James Harrison and Maurkice Pouncey snubbed?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to DeShon Elliott signing a three-year contract extension with the Steelers. Was keeping Elliott long-term the right move for GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin? Can Elliott and Fitzpatrick be elite playmakers in a secondary that also includes Joey Porter Jr. and has added names like Darius Slay Jr., Juan Thornhill and Brandin Echols this offseason? And how much can an improved defensive line that includes Cam Heyward, Derrick Harmon, Keeanu Benton and Yahya Black help guys like Elliott with playmaking on the back end? Paul offers thoughts on those questions; the Pirate starting a series with the Detroit Tigers; and the NBA and Stanley Cup finals nearing stellar finishes.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news. He ponders how Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers matches up with his new AFC North division rivals including Joe Burrow of the Bengals, Lamar Jackson of the Ravens and Browns options including Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, Shedeur Sanders and Joe Flacco. Is he the clear No. 3 in the pecking order? Or could he offer coach Mike Tomlin and OC Arthur Smith advantages that Burrow and Jackson don't offer their teams? Later, Paul gives his thoughts on J.J. Spaun's victory at the U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club and the Pirates' frustrating weekend series against the Chicago Cubs in which they allowed just nine runs but still lost three out of four games.

We think the Florida Panthers will win the NBA Finals. Should T.J. McConnell plays more in the playoffs? Joe and Mike White of the Post-Gazette think he should have more minutes too.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news LIVE around 5 p.m. from the U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club. He gives his thoughts on a report by ESPN's Adam Schefter that Aaron Rodgers was actually the Steelers' third choice at QB and that the team preferred Justin Fields and the Los Angeles Rams' Matthew Stafford before turning to the veteran. He also has some closing comments on minicamp with T.J. Watt's contract dispute still unresolved. Later, Paul talks U.S. Open, as top names like Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler and Bryson DeChambeau continue to chase J.J. Spaun on the leaderboard.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to a busy first day of the U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club. He gives thoughts on unexpected leader J.J. Spaun; local hero Matt Vogt; and top-ranked names including Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, Bryson DeChambeau, Xander Schauffele, Collin Morikawa, Justin Thomas and more. Then later, he weighs in on Steelers coach Mike Tomlin's decision not to rule out a training camp holdout for star pass rusher T.J. Watt.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to recap a busy week of Pittsburgh sports news. Do the Steelers have their deepest roster since the Killer Bs era of Ben Roethlisberger, Le'Veon Bell and Antonio Brown following the signing of QB Aaron Rodgers; the trade for WR DK Metcalf; and the NFL draft selections of names like Derrick Harmon, Kaleb Johnson and Will Howard? Or is this roster still too lacking in top-end talent to challenge like those teams of the past did? How does Rodgers, at age 41, stack up against QBs of recent vintage including Roethlisberger, Kenny Pickett, Mitch Trubisky, Russell Wilson and Justin Fields? What moves should coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan make to further shore up the roster? And what does Jason think of the T.J. Watt holdout from minicamp? Our duo tackles those questions. Then later, Jason gives insight on the Dan Muse hiring by the Penguins one week later; and makes picks for the U.S. Open at Oakmont.

Post-Gazette golf insider Gerry Dulac joins King Jemison to break down everything you need to know ahead of the opening round of the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club on Thursday. Can Rory McIlroy shake off some of the Masters hangover and find his form again? Can world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler continue his torrid pace and pick up yet another major after reigning victorious at the PGA Championship this year? Can the mad scientist of golf, Bryson DeChambeau, pick up his third U.S. Open? How will the conditions be now that the weather is warming up again and causing the course to become firmer? What kind of player will be able to find success? Gerry and King give their predictions for the winner and the winning score.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. He gives his thoughts on Aaron Rodgers crediting Mike Tomlin for bringing him to the Steelers. Does the coach deserve more praise for helping secure the services of a four-time MVP at QB? Or should we still be suspect of Tomlin's QB evaluation following the struggles with Kenny Pickett, Mitch Trubisky, Justin Fields and Russell Wilson the past few years? Especially considering Rodgers' advanced age of 41? Paul tackles those questions; Derrick Harmon's early big to start alongside Keeanu Benton and Cam Heyward on the defensive line; the end of the Pirates' series with the Miami Marlins; and the last day of prep for the U.S. Open and Oakmont Country Club. Who's looking the best from among the elite golfers including Justin Thomas, Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, Collin Morikawa and Bryson DeChambeau?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news LIVE around 5 p.m. Eastern from Oakmont Country Club ahead of the U.S. Open. He reacts to the arrival of Aaron Rodgers at Steelers minicamp. How did the veteran QB look? What should we make of his introductory comments following a long pursuit by coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan? And how will he mesh with OC Arthur Smith's offense and targets including DK Metcalf, Pat Freiermuth and Calvin Austin III? Paul also offers thoughts on T.J. Watt's absence from the mandatory practices. Does it signal real trouble with contract negotiations? Or could it just be posturing? And what impact could it have on the defense's efforts to redeem itself from last year's playoff embarrassment vs. Baltimore? Then later, Paul gives his thoughts on what he's seeing at Oakmont, where top golfers including Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy and Justin Rose are gathering to challenge the famed course.

Gary talks about the House v. NCAA settlement and what he thinks it means for the future of Hawaii Athletics and the NCAA, he also discusses the NBA Finals and his opinions on the tied up series between the Pacers and Thunder. Dan Greenburg from Barstool Sports joins the show to talk more about what he's seen in the Finals, as well as give his opinion on what he thinks Jaylen Brown will be doing this offseason. Ray Fittipaldo of the Post-Gazette joins the show to talk about the Pittsburgh Steelers and the newest addition to their team, Aaron Rodgers.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. He gives his thoughts on the controversy that's ensued following the appearance of Mason Rudolph, Miles Killebrew and Rocky Bleier at a Donald Trump event in the area last week. Was the team's decision to publish a letter about the topic necessary? Or should it be a given that individual players do not represent the organization in personal capacities? Paul gives his thoughts on those topics; the hiring of Dan Muse as Penguins coach; the Beanie Bishop video that's ignited rancor within the Backyard Brawl rivalry between Pitt and WVU; and the Pirates' latest ugly loss in a spectacular Paul Skenes start.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey and Penguins insider Matt Vensel react to the team's hiring of New York Rangers assistant Dan Muse as head coach, replacing Mike Sullivan, over names including Mitch Love and D.J. Smith. Did GM Kyle Dubas make the right choice? What can Muse do to lift veterans including Sidney Crosby, Kris Letang, Evgeni Malkin, Bryan Rust and Tristan Jarry? How can he help the development of young talents including Ville Koivunen, Rutger McGroarty and Sergei Murashov? And is he the guy who can get the franchise back to Stanley Cup contention? Or is he more of a bridge coach? Our duo tackles those questions and more.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. He gives his thoughts on news that former Buffalo Bills WR Gabe Davis is set to visit the team this week. Is he the right WR2 to play next to DK Metcalf instead of the traded George Pickens? Would Roman Wilson and Calvin Austin III be able to push him for time? How will he mesh with QBs Mason Rudolph and Will Howard? Or possibly Aaron Rodgers? And would GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin be correct to pursue him instead of names like Keenan Allen and Amari Cooper, who are also available? Paul tackles those questions and more.

Post-Gazette insiders Noah Hiles and Colin Beazley discuss the Pirates' three-game series against the Padres, in which they won one of three but could have realistically won either of the games they lost. Hiles and Beazley start by discussing the overall series and how the team is feeling after blowing a late lead Sunday, then talk about the starting pitching, headlined by a fantastic month of May for Bailey Falter. Beazley compares the series to one earlier in May, in which the Padres swept the Pirates handily. The two conclude with a look at Andrew McCutchen, who had a strong series and tied Roberto Clemente with his 240th Pirates home run.

In the latest episode of Working People, we go back to the picket line to get a critical update on the longest ongoing strike in the United States. In October 2022, over 100 workers represented by five labor unions—including production, distribution, advertising, and accounts receivable staff—walked off the job on an unfair labor practice strike at the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (PPG). The strike began after the newspaper's management, Block Communications, which is owned by the Block family, cut off health insurance for employees on Oct. 1 of that year. After more than 2.5 years on strike, with other unions reaching contracts or taking buyouts and dissolving their units, workers represented by the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh are the last remaining strikers holding the line. We speak with a panel of union officers for the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh about how they've managed to stay on strike so long and about recent legal updates that have given them hope that an acceptable end to the strike may be on the horizon. Panelists include: Ed Blazina, striking transportation writer at the PPG and one of the Vice Presidents of the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh; Erin Hebert, also one of the Vice Presidents of the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh and a striking copy-editor and page designer at PPG; Emily Matthews, photographer on strike and treasurer for the Post-Gazette Unit of the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh. Additional links/info: Pittsburgh Union Progress website, Facebook page, X page, and Instagram Donate to Support Striking Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Workers Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh website Maximillian Alvarez, The Real News Network, “TRNN wins 2025 Izzy Award for coverage of East Palestine, OH, trainwreck & chemical disaster” Bob Batz Jr., Pittsburgh Union Progress, “The strike is over for 3 Pittsburgh news production unions, but the journalists' strike continues” Ian Karbal, Pennsylvania Capital Star, “The strike at the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is now the longest in the nation. And it's not over” Mel Buer, Working People / The Real News Network, “Two years into a strike, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette workers aren't ready to give up” Bob Batz Jr. & Steve Mellon, Pittsburgh Union Progress, “A start to the end of the strike? Feds file for temporary injunction to return Pittsburgh news unions to work” Brett Wilkins, Common Dreams / The Real News Network, “‘AI will not scab us': Post-Gazette newsroom decries use of artificial intelligence” Maximillian Alvarez, The Real News Network, “(Livestream) After months of striking, media workers aren't backing down” Maximillian Alvarez, The Real News Network, “(Livestream) Strikes at Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, University of Michigan, and more” Maximillian Alvarez, Working People / The Real News Network, “The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's half-year strike” Permanent links below… Leave us a voicemail and we might play it on the show! Labor Radio / Podcast Network website, Facebook page, and Twitter page In These Times website, Facebook page, and Twitter page The Real News Network website, YouTube channel, podcast feeds, Facebook page, and Twitter page Featured Music… Jules Taylor, “Working People” Theme Song Audio Post-Production: Jules Taylor

President Trump is expected in Pittsburgh today to tout a "planned partnership" between U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel. Host Megan Harris and executive producer Mallory Falk are joined by Axios Pittsburgh's Ryan Deto to share what we know about the agreement and what questions still need to be answered when Trump holds his "BIG rally" at U.S. Steel's Irvin Works in West Mifflin. They also discuss John Fetterman's claims that he's been "shamed" into showing up for Senate votes and hearings, dig into a new report on city parks, and explain why nurses at UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital want to unionize. Plus, they debate whether Pittsburghers should race out to try Malört now that the polarizing liquor is available in PA. Notes and references from today's show: Trump backs Nippon Steel "partnership" with U.S. Steel [Axios] U.S. Steel situation gets even stranger [Axios] US government to have control in Nippon Steel-U.S. Steel deal, Trump and Sen. McCormick say [Associated Press] How Well Do You Know Pittsburgh? Take This Quiz! [City Cast Pittsburgh] Pittsburgh ranks as a top city for parks [Axios] Your Guide to Exploring Pittsburgh Parks [City Cast Pittsburgh] Fetterman, Often Absent From Senate, Says He Has Been Shamed Into Returning [New York Times] Fetterman Went To Israel On NYC Mental Health Nonprofit's Dime [The Intercept] Nurses at UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital announce intent to unionize [90.5 WESA] An Update on the Longest Ongoing Strike in the US: 'Some Things Don't Change at the Post-Gazette' [The Real News Network] Malört vs. Fireball: Pa.'s new liquor rivalry [Axios] Learn more about the sponsors of this May 30th episode: Centre County Highway Revolt Pittsburgh Festival of Books Three Rivers Arts Festival Pittsburgh Pride Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to react to a busy week in Pittsburgh sports news. Should the GM Omar Khan, coach Mike Tomlin and the Steelers have allocated their offseason budget toward building roster depth for beyond just 2025? With deals similar to the one they made with DK Metcalf? Instead of pursuing a short-term QB solution in Aaron Rodgers? And if they knew Rodgers' indecision would last into OTAs, would they have handled things differently? What are the biggest storylines around OTAs otherwise? Is it the tackle situation with Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu? The receivers room with Roman Wilson, Calvin Austin III and Robert Woods jockeying for position behind Metcalf? is it Darius Slay Jr.'s arrival in the secondary? Or the re-loaded running back room with Trey Sermon, Kaleb Johnson and Kenneth Gainwell joining Jaylen Warren? Our duo tackles those questions, the Penguins coaching search and College Football Playoff expansion and what it could mean for Pitt and Penn State. Then in the third segment, airing on the PG's Pirates YouTube channel, the guys analyze the team's recent hot streak. Is new manager Don Kelly making a meaningful difference compared to Derek Shelton? Or is the offense just getting some better luck? Is Kelly's future tied to Ben Cherington's? Or could Bob Nutting retain Kelly and change GMs this offseason? What should we make of how the club is handling young pitchers Bubba Chandler, Carmen Mlodzinski, Mike Burrows and Braxton Ashcraft? And is Henry Davis finally starting to round a corner?

Post-Gazette insiders Noah Hiles and Colin Beazley discuss the Pirates' three-game series in Arizona, in which the Pirates caught fire midway through the second game for a comeback win Tuesday and a rout on Wednesday. The duo start by discussing the offense in general, as the Pirates scored 19 runs in the final 12 innings of the series, before focusing on Bryan Reynolds and Henry Davis. They then focus more on Davis, with Hiles going in-depth on why Davis should be the Pirates' primary catcher until proven otherwise. They then discuss the pitching and Davis's effect on the pitching staff, especially Pirates ace Paul Skenes. For more Pirates coverage, visit: https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/pirates Visit our sponsor, Greenawalt Roofing at https://greenawaltroofing.com/service-areas/pittsburgh-pennsylvania/

In the latest episode of Working People, we go back to the picket line to get a critical update on the longest ongoing strike in the United States. In October 2022, over 100 workers represented by five labor unions—including production, distribution, advertising, and accounts receivable staff—walked off the job on an unfair labor practice strike at the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (PPG). The strike began after the newspaper's management, Block Communications, which is owned by the Block family, cut off health insurance for employees on Oct. 1. After more than 2.5 years on strike, with other unions reaching contracts or taking buyouts and dissolving their units, workers represented by the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh are the last remaining strikers holding the line. We speak with a panel of union officers for the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh about how they've managed to stay on strike so long and about recent legal updates that have given them hope that an acceptable end to the strike may be on the horizon. Panelists include: Ed Blazina, striking transportation writer at the PPG and one of the Vice Presidents of the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh; Erin Hebert, also one of the Vice Presidents of the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh and a striking copy-editor and page designer at PPG; Emily Matthews, photographer on strike and treasurer for the Post-Gazette Unit of the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh. Additional links/info: Pittsburgh Union Progress website, Facebook page, X page, and InstagramDonate to Support Striking Pittsburgh Post-Gazette WorkersMaximillian Alvarez, The Real News Network, “TRNN wins 2025 Izzy Award for coverage of East Palestine, OH, trainwreck & chemical disaster”Bob Batz Jr., Pittsburgh Union Progress, “The strike is over for 3 Pittsburgh news production unions, but the journalists' strike continues”Ian Karbal, Pennsylvania Capital Star, “The strike at the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is now the longest in the nation. And it's not over”Mel Buer, Working People / The Real News Network, “Two years into a strike, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette workers aren't ready to give up”Bob Batz Jr. & Steve Mellon, Pittsburgh Union Progress, “A start to the end of the strike? Feds file for temporary injunction to return Pittsburgh news unions to work”Brett Wilkins, Common Dreams / The Real News Network, “‘AI will not scab us': Post-Gazette newsroom decries use of artificial intelligence”Maximillian Alvarez, The Real News Network, “(Livestream) After months of striking, media workers aren't backing down”Maximillian Alvarez, The Real News Network, “(Livestream) Strikes at Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, University of Michigan, and more”Maximillian Alvarez, Working People / The Real News Network, “The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's half-year strike”Permanent links below…Leave us a voicemail and we might play it on the show!Labor Radio / Podcast Network website, Facebook page, and Twitter pageIn These Times website, Facebook page, and Twitter pageThe Real News Network website, YouTube channel, podcast feeds, Facebook page, and Twitter pageFeatured Music…Jules Taylor, “Working People” Theme SongAudio Post-Production: Jules TaylorHelp us continue producing radically independent news and in-depth analysis by following us and becoming a monthly sustainer.Sign up for our newsletterLike us on FacebookFollow us on TwitterDonate to support this podcast

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. He weighs in on the increasingly frenzied national discourse surrounding Aaron Rodgers, Mason Rudolph and the Steelers' QB situation. Do GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin deserve the criticism they're getting from Terry Bradshaw and others? Or are people making too much of OTAs and optional practices in late May, with the season still several months away? Paul welcomes Mike DeCourcy of the Sporting News to break it all down; get Mike's thoughts on College Football Playoff expansion and changes related to the NCAA's House settlement; and talk some Pirates after a win in Arizona on Tuesday night.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Should the Steelers really be looking at Kirk Cousins as a Plan B to Aaron Rodgers, as reporting from ESPN's Jeremy Fowler suggests? Would the veteran quarterback's production be worth his hefty price tag for general manager Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin? Or are they better off looking internally at options like Mason Rudolph and Will Howard? And what other storylines is Paul monitoring at Steelers OTAs, from the new-look receivers room with DK Metcalf and Robert Woods joining Roman Wilson and Calvin Austin III to the battle at tackle highlighting Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu? Paul tackles those topics, then recaps a busy weekend for the Pirates against the Milwaukee Brewers and the start of their West Coast road trip against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

The Post-Gazette's Adam Bittner and Jason Mackey react to a busy week of Pittsburgh sports news. Should OTAs be a red line for Steelers GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin in their pursuit of QB Aaron Rodgers? How important is the offseason program to his success, given that it didn't seem to matter much for Russell Wilson and Justin Fields? And how much worse off would the Steelers be with Mason Rudolph as their starter instead? Is the national media bashing he's received fair? Our duo tackles those questions; the difference between George Pickens and DK Metcalf as WR1; and the team's biggest remaining weakness after adding Derrick Harmon and Kaleb Johnson in the NFL draft. Later, the guys discuss the Penguins coaching search. Why does Mitch Love continue to make a lot of sense as a frontrunner? How much say should Sidney Crosby have in the hiring process? And how cool is it to watch Crosby and Marc-Andre Fleury play together one last time at the IIHF world championships? Then in the third segment, airing on the PG's Pirates YouTube channel, our duo ponders Ben Cherington's options as the season continues to slip away. Is there a trade he can make to salvage his job? Is that a move he should be allowed to make, given his track record? Would firing him have a bigger practical or psychological impact? And what should we make of the Paul Skenes trade chatter, initiated this past week by ESPN's Jeff Passan? Adam and Jason give their thoughts, then analyze the catching situation with Henry Davis and Joey Bart. And Alexander Canario's recent hot streak.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. What should we make of Steelers owner Art Rooney II saying he's willing to wait a "little while longer" on Aaron Rodgers at QB following the NFL owners meetings? Did Rodgers add any context to his delay in making a decision in his appearance on Joe Rogan's podcast? And what is a reasonable timeline for signing with OTAs and minicamp fast approaching? And Mason Rudolph and Will Howard poised to get top reps? Paul tackles those questions and looks ahead to the Pirates' four-game series with the Milwaukee Brewers.

Post-Gazette insiders Noah Hiles and Colin Beazley recap the Pirates' series victory over the Reds at PNC Park. Before their recap begins, the duo discusses the injury news pertaining to right-hander Jared Jones, who will miss the next 10-12 months after getting surgery to repair a UCL injury in his right elbow. The discussion then pivots to the Pirates pitching staff, which, with names like Mitch Keller, Paul Skenes, Bailey Falter and Andrew Heaney, has been nothing short of dominant under new manager Don Kelly. But for as good as the pitching has been, the bats have struggled, tying an MLB record for 26 straight games with four or less runs scored. The video is concluded with a quick look at the team's upcoming series against the Brewers, which includes a first big-league start from right-hander Mike Burrows on Thursday evening.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. He weighs in on a report from MMQB's Albert Breer that the Steelers inquired about trading for New Orleans Saints receiver Chris Olave earlier in the offseason. Were they right to make their move for DK Metcalf instead? Should general manager Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin mount another attempt to acquire Olave as a No. 2 after sending George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys? And how much confidence should we have in the current receivers room that includes names like Robert Woods, Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson? Paul weighs in on those question, the NFL's decision not the ban the "tush push" popularized by the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles; and the conclusion of the Pirates' three-game series with the Cincinnati Reds at PNC Park.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Are the Pirates heading toward yet another five-year rebuild following the firing of Derek Shelton as manager and the continued lack of results from general manager Ben Cherington? Or should owner Bob Nutting consider other options if he makes front-office changes at some point in the coming weeks and months? Could a rebuild lead to a trade of star pitcher Paul Skenes sooner rather than later as national MLB insiders including ESPN's Jeff Passan have speculated recently? Or should they keep him in their rotation alongside names like Mitch Keller for as long as possible? And when will it finally be time for the team to promote star pitching prospect Bubba Chandler? Paul ponders those questions and more.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Will Aaron Rodgers sign with the Steelers before OTAs, scheduled for next week? How much will it hurt preparation for coach Mike Tomlin's team if he doesn't? What could it mean for quarterbacks already under contract, including Mason Rudolph and Will Howard, or the chemistry with wide receivers including DK Metcalf, Robert Woods, Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson? And what should we make of comments Rodgers' biographer made last week? Paul tackles those questions, then gives his thoughts on a disastrous Pirates weekend series that included a brilliant Paul Skenes start wasted by a lack of offense.

On his weekly Saturday Conversations podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey welcomes former Pirates first-round draft pick Cole Tucker to get his perspective on the Pirates' managerial change from Derek Shelton to Don Kelly. What does Tucker remember about playing for Kelly? Why does he believe the club and former teammates including Ke'Bryan Hayes, Bryan Reynolds and Jack Suwinski are struggling so mightily? And what does he remember about his promotion to MLB that included a home run? Then later, our duo discusses Tucker's transition into broadcasting and how he hopes to use his gregarious personality to make TV gold.

Host Adam Bittner welcomes Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Maceky to react to a busy week in Pittsburgh sports news, which included the release of the Steelers' schedule on Wednesday night. Is the NFL signaling that it expects Aaron Rodgers will ultimately sign with the team by creating a Week 1 matchup with the New York Jets, his former squad? How intrigued should we be by an early meeting with former Steelers QB Justin Fields? And is it a good thing or a bad thing that coach Mike Tomlin and Co. will face another late-season gauntlet with games against the Super Bowl-contending Bills, Ravens and Lions? Our duo tackles those questions, plus Jason's reaction to what we saw from names including Derrick Harmon, Will Howad, Kaleb Johnson and Jack Sawyer at rookie minicamp. Then on other fronts, they discuss the Penguins coaching search and College Football Playoff expansion. Is Washington Capitals assistant Mitch Love a name that should be high on fans' list? And is the ACC right in fighting the Big Ten and SEC proposals for how the playoff will look moving forward? Then in the third segment, airing on the PG's Pirates YouTube channel, Adam and Jason react to Jason's interview with Pirates owner Bob Nutting following the firing of manager Derek Shelton last week. Does Nutting have any actual power to improve the Pirates' economic disadvantage against teams like the Dodgers, Mets and Yankees? Why did he fire Shelton but not GM Ben Cherington, who's also struggled in his role? Has Nutting oversold the impact of injuries to names like Spencer Horwitz and Jared Jones on the team's slow start? What can be done to get names like Bryan Reynolds back on track? And is it past time that Bubba Chandler was promoted to the big leagues?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Has the hype for Steelers sixth-round pick Will Howard gotten a bit out of control? How valid are the comparisons between his game and that of Ben Roethlisberger? And what are proper expectations for him in a quarterback room with Mason Rudolph and — possibly — Aaron Rodgers? Paul tackles those questions and more. What should we make of the Steelers' Week 4 matchup with the Minnesota Vikings, now announced as their Ireland game? Is Don Kelly making a difference as manager for the Pirates or is his impact overstated? And what should Penguins fans be learning from the NHL playoffs?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. What should we make of George Pickens appearing to call the Steelers a "cheap organization" in the comments of an Instagram post — and his subsequent attempts to walk it back? Is there some validity to his statements? Or is this just another example of why general manager Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin were willing to trade him to the Dallas Cowboys last week? Paul answers those questions; gives thoughts on what we saw from names like Derrick Harmon, Kaleb Johnson, Jack Sawyer and Will Howard at rookie minicamp; and weighs in on the Pirates' weekend series against the Atlanta Braves, in which new manager Don Kelly guided to them to a pair of victories.

The best conversations from The Fan Morning Show, The Pomp and Joe Show, and The PM Team with Poni Mueller during the week of May 5-9. Reacting to two major stories in Pittsburgh stories: the Steelers trading wide receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys, and the Pirates dismissing manager Derek Shelton. Ray Fittipaldo says Pickens was a "cancer" in the Steelers locker room,, and the trade should have no bearing on whether Aaron Rodgers signs with the team. Pomp says he would have kept Pickens and waited for him to mature. Noah Hiles of the Post-Gazette tells the morning show that Bucs GM Ben Cherington is likely to be back for 2026, despite Shelton's firing. All that and more!

The best conversations from The Fan Morning Show, The Pomp and Joe Show, and The PM Team with Poni Mueller during the week of May 5-9. Reacting to two major stories in Pittsburgh stories: the Steelers trading wide receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys, and the Pirates dismissing manager Derek Shelton. Ray Fittipaldo says Pickens was a "cancer" in the Steelers locker room,, and the trade should have no bearing on whether Aaron Rodgers signs with the team. Pomp says he would have kept Pickens and waited for him to mature. Noah Hiles of the Post-Gazette tells the morning show that Bucs GM Ben Cherington is likely to be back for 2026, despite Shelton's firing. All that and more!

The best conversations from The Fan Morning Show, The Pomp and Joe Show, and The PM Team with Poni Mueller during the week of May 5-9. Reacting to two major stories in Pittsburgh stories: the Steelers trading wide receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys, and the Pirates dismissing manager Derek Shelton. Ray Fittipaldo says Pickens was a "cancer" in the Steelers locker room,, and the trade should have no bearing on whether Aaron Rodgers signs with the team. Pomp says he would have kept Pickens and waited for him to mature. Noah Hiles of the Post-Gazette tells the morning show that Bucs GM Ben Cherington is likely to be back for 2026, despite Shelton's firing. All that and more!

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Should GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin consider dealing star pass rusher T.J. Watt following the George Pickens trade to the Dallas Cowboys? Does it make sense to continue bolstering their NFL draft capital with an eye toward selecting from the loaded 2026 QB class that includes Arch Manning, Drew Allar, Nico Iamaleava and LaNorris Sellers? Or is Watt still worth extending into his 30s as a leader of a team that hopes to be competing for playoff wins? Paul tackles those topics, then weighs in on the Pirates after they announced Thursday that they'd fired manager Derek Shelton and replaced him with bench coach Don Kelly.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to react to a busy week of Pittsburgh sports news. Are GM Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin signaling an intention to punt on the 2025 season after trading George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys? And allowing names like Najee Harris, Russell Wilson and Justin Fields to leave via NFL free agency in exchange for compensatory picks for the 2026 NFL draft? Or are they still serious about winning if they're keeping T.J. Watt in Pittsburgh and pursuing QB Aaron Rodgers on the open market? And how smart would it be to position for 2026 and its loaded QB class that includes names like Arch Manning, Drew Allar, Nico Iamaleava and LaNorris Sellers? Our duo tackles those questions, then talks Penguins and Penn State football. Should GM Kyle Dubas regret the team's winning ways to end the season? Which resulted in the 11th overall pick in the upcoming NHL draft? Who are the candidates Jason is mostly looking toward to replace Mike Sullivan as coach? And did Nittany Lions coach James Franklin accomplish what he needed to in the transfer portal this offseason? Adding names like Syracuse WR Trebor Pena and North Carolina linebacker Amare Campbell to a team that hopes to compete for a College Football Playoff national title?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern, primarily the Steelers' decision to trade George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a third-round pick in next year's NFL draft. How does this move fit into a confusing offseason so far, one that's included big additions in DK Metcalf, Kenneth Gainwell and Darius Slay Jr; big subtractions in the form of Najee Harris, Russell Wilson and Justin Fields; plus a protracted pursuit of quarterback Aaron Rodgers? Are general manager Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin serious about competing this year? Or are they looking toward the 2026 NFL draft, in which they now have a basket of picks to pursue a quarterback like Arch Manning, Drew Allar, Nico Iamaleava and LaNorris Sellers? Paul tackles those questions and more on the football front, then talks Pirates and manager Derek Shelton's future after another series loss vs. the St. Louis Cardinals.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. He welcomes Washington Wild Things general manager Tony Buselli to analyze the Pirates' most recent losing funk, which included a loss to the St. Louis Cardinals on Monday night. Is this team fixable around stars like Paul Skenes, Oneil Cruz and Andrew McCutchen? Does manager Derek Shelton have the right answers? Or could his time in the dugout be running short? And what should general manager Ben Cherington do with struggling hitters like Tommy Pham, Jack Suwinski and Jared Triolo?

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Is former Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger underrated compared to names like Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees, Peyton Manning and others as former Baltimore Ravens rival Terrell Suggs suggested on a podcast recently? Or does he get his just due around the league? Paul offers thoughts on that topic, plus the continuing fallout from the NFL draft and general manager Omar Khan's selection of names like Derrick Harmon, Kaleb Johnson, Jack Sawyer and Will Howard. Then later, Paul reacts to the Pirates' weekend sweep at the hands of the San Diego Padres and ponders the future of manager Derek Shelton. Should he be coaching for his job over the next couple of weeks? Will Oneil Cruz, Andrew McCutchen and the offense ever catch up to Paul Skenes, Mitch Keller and the pitching? And is there any hope left for this season with the team already more than 10 games under the .500 mark?

On his weekly Saturday Conversations podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey welcomes SportsNet Pittsburgh analyst and former Pirates pitcher Steven Brault to discuss the team's slow start. What it an MLB clubhouse like when a team gets off on the wrong foot? Where do the Pirates most need to improve under manager Derek Shelton? And what can they learn from the evolution of Oneil Cruz into a dangerous hitter. And the maturity Paul Skenes has shown in leading the pitching staff? Our duo tackles those topics, then Jason learns how Brault got started in broadcasting and what his hopes are for his career in that field.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Should Steelers general manager Omar Khan and coach Mike Tomlin consider Titans quarterback Will Levis as a potential alternative should their NFL free agency pursuit of Aaron Rodgers fall through now that Levis appears poised to be displaced by No. 1 overall NFL draft pick Cam Ward in Nashville? Or are Mason Rudolph or even newly drafted quarterback Will Howard preferable to Levis? And does any other potential Plan B quarterback option — including Atlanta's Kirk Cousins — appeal to Paul? He tackles those questions; looks ahead to the Pirates' three-game series with the San Diego Padres at PNC Park; and gives thoughts on the concern swirling around Paul Skenes after an uncharacteristically sloppy start last time out against the Chicago Cubs.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to react to a busy week in Pittsburgh sports news. How much pressure is on Steelers coach Mike Tomlin following the firing of the Penguins' Mike Sullivan? Will he face expectations to win in 2025, after GM Omar Khan decided to keep names like George Pickens and T.J. Watt rather than trade them for future draft capital? And amid the likely signing of veteran Aaron Rodgers? Or will get get a chance to coach the team in 2026, when it holds 10 draft picks and may be able to seek its QB of the future, with names like Arch Manning, Drew Allar, LaNorris Sellers and Nico Iamaleava likely coming out of the college ranks? Later, the guys tackle the Penguins' new direction without Sullivan. What changed for GM Kyle Dubas between last year and this year, given the reality that expectations for 2024-25 were low? Could a new coach jolt the team like Dan Bylsma did in 2009 or Sullivan did in 2016 to spark Stanley Cup runs from Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang? How much runway does Kyle Dubas have to turn the Penguins into contenders? And is the perception of Sidney Crosby's involvement in front office moves fit reality? Then in the third segment, airing on the PG's Pirates YouTube channel, our duo analyzes the continued lack of results in the win-loss column despite some improvement offensively. Is this just a bad team, even if it continues to show some improvement? What does that mean for GM Ben Cherington and manager Derek Shelton in owner Bob Nutting's eyes? Is Enmanuel Valdez a useful player? Or only looking good by comparison? And how will things shake out in the rotation with Bubba Chandler becoming hard to deny in the minors, Jared Jones on the mend and Carmen Mlodzinski still struggling after the first time through opposing batting orders? If you haven't already, subscribe to the sports department's YouTube channels so you don't miss videos with our reports, columnists and their special guests.

Post-Gazette sports columnist Paul Zeise reacts to the day in Pittsburgh sports news live around 5 p.m. Eastern. Do the Steelers have enough depth at receiver now that Robert Woods has joined Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson behind DK Metcalf and George Pickens? Or will those three still have to prove themselves as reliable pieces for coach Mike Tomlin and offensive coordinator Arthur Smith? And is the team's talk of becoming more physical following the NFL draft legit now that names like Derrick Harmon, Kaleb Johnson, Jack Sawyer and Yahya Black are in the fold? Paul tackles those questions; ponders the desirability of the Penguins job for NHL coaches; and wonders whether it's time to worry about Paul Skenes after his rocky Thursday start cost the Pirates a series win vs. the Chicago Cubs.