Podcast appearances and mentions of sam blum

The Athletic's Sam Blum and former Sports Illustrated baseball editor Connor Grossman discuss the Angels' 8-game winning streak, followed up with losses in seven of eight games. Which team are the Angels? As they continue their slide, is there anything they can take from their stretch of victories?

Blake Murphy and Julia Kreuz discuss the home run barrage by the Blue Jays, Ernie Clement mimicking Vladimir Guerrero Jr. home run shuffle and Jose Berrios feeling and looking good on the mound vs. the A's. Davis Schneider (29:50) joins the show to outline how his time with the Bisons has gone and his future with the Blue Jays. Sam Blum (50:11) pops by to comment on Mike Trout's return, Kenley Jansen's quest for 500 saves and whether Taylor Ward could be on the trade block. Lastly, Cricket Day at the Park is on Saturday, and Rahul Srinivasan (1:17:54), CEO of Boundaries North, reflects on the state of Cricket, its future and how events like this grow the sport. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Johnny Doskow, Jessica Kleinschmidt, and Ken Korach preview game three of the Angels and Athletics from West Sacramento. They were joined by Sam Blum (3:32), Max Schuemann (9:27), and Bobby Crosby (17:49) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sam Blum of The Athletic hops on as the Angels get set to face the Dodgers this weekend. Fred and Rodney discuss whether Arte Moreno should sell the Angels (for real this time). We tell you how you can be the next Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Lakers.

The guys talked about the Padres tough loss last night, caught up with Sam Blum of The Athletic, and talked about the possible reinstatement of Pete Rose.

The guys picked up the pieces after the Padres lost Game 1 against the Angels last night. They also talked about Pete Rose being eligible for the HOF again. Plus, Sam Blum of The Athletic joined the show to talk Angels.

The Athletic's Sam Blum and former Sports Illustrated baseball editor Connor Grossman are back with another episode of Calling All Halos. The Angels have lost 16-of-21 games, and haven't looked particularly competitive. So who is to blame for this mess? And is there any hope for a turnaround?

Nick is joined by Halos beat writer Sam Blum from The Athletic to dissect the state of the Angels right now and where the blame lies for the team's ongoing struggles. We get an insight into the front office, the coaching staff, the players and the draft.

We're back for part four of our Retail Operations series on Stories from the River! In this second half of a dynamic two-part conversation, guest host Sam Blum, Director of Customer Experience, continues the discussion with a powerhouse panel from Broad River Retail. Jessica Blackstock, REM of Mooresville, Nathan Jeter, GM of Mooresville, Cindy Orrick, Sales Audit Manager, and Karrin Reed, Manager of Retail Inventory, dive even deeper into the collaborative spirit that drives success across departments. From building trust with store teams to cross-training efforts and building consistency across locations, this episode highlights how strong relationships and shared goals fuel efficiency, accuracy, and exceptional guest care. The group reflects on how far they've come—from feeling siloed to operating as an integrated support system—and how Retail Ops continues to evolve thanks to technology, training, and heart. You'll hear impactful stories, leadership insights, and laughter along the way as the panel celebrates what it truly means to be a team. This episode is packed with practical wisdom and authentic connection—don't miss it! This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/JX9vtjKovPY  Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com                              Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-river-retail  

We're back for part four of our Retail Operations series on Stories from the River! In this second half of a dynamic two-part conversation, guest host Sam Blum, Director of Customer Experience, continues the discussion with a powerhouse panel from Broad River Retail. Jessica Blackstock, REM of Mooresville, Nathan Jeter, GM of Mooresville, Cindy Orrick, Sales Audit Manager, and Karrin Reed, Manager of Retail Inventory, dive even deeper into the collaborative spirit that drives success across departments. From building trust with store teams to cross-training efforts and building consistency across locations, this episode highlights how strong relationships and shared goals fuel efficiency, accuracy, and exceptional guest care. The group reflects on how far they've come—from feeling siloed to operating as an integrated support system—and how Retail Ops continues to evolve thanks to technology, training, and heart. You'll hear impactful stories, leadership insights, and laughter along the way as the panel celebrates what it truly means to be a team. This episode is packed with practical wisdom and authentic connection—don't miss it! This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/JX9vtjKovPY  Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com                              Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-river-retail  

This lively episode of Stories from the River marks part three of our Retail Operations series! Guest host Sam Blum, Director of Customer Experience, brings together a dynamic group of retail collaborators from Broad River Retail to spotlight the essential partnerships that power day-to-day operations. Nathan Jeter, General Manager of Mooresville, and Jessica Blackstock, REM of Mooresville, share how their close working relationship ensures smooth processes and exceptional guest experiences—Jessica, often compared to a lineman protecting the “quarterback,” safeguards every order from start to finish. Meanwhile, Cindy Orrick, Sales Audit Manager, and Karrin Reed, Manager of Retail Inventory, explain how their teams serve as a vigilant “second pair of eyes,” supporting store Memory Makers behind the scenes and drawing on their own REM experience to provide proactive and empathetic support. The conversation dives deep into collaboration—highlighting daily communication habits as well as innovative approaches that have streamlined audits and inventory management through shared expertise and technology. From stepping in to save guest experiences to transforming perceptions of audit partners, the group showcases a culture of open communication, continuous improvement, and unwavering teamwork. The conversation doesn't stop here—tune in to Thursday's episode for part two with this inspiring crew! This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ekuY0Q-_Y00  Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com                              Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-river-retail  

This lively episode of Stories from the River marks part three of our Retail Operations series! Guest host Sam Blum, Director of Customer Experience, brings together a dynamic group of retail collaborators from Broad River Retail to spotlight the essential partnerships that power day-to-day operations. Nathan Jeter, General Manager of Mooresville, and Jessica Blackstock, REM of Mooresville, share how their close working relationship ensures smooth processes and exceptional guest experiences—Jessica, often compared to a lineman protecting the “quarterback,” safeguards every order from start to finish. Meanwhile, Cindy Orrick, Sales Audit Manager, and Karrin Reed, Manager of Retail Inventory, explain how their teams serve as a vigilant “second pair of eyes,” supporting store Memory Makers behind the scenes and drawing on their own REM experience to provide proactive and empathetic support. The conversation dives deep into collaboration—highlighting daily communication habits as well as innovative approaches that have streamlined audits and inventory management through shared expertise and technology. From stepping in to save guest experiences to transforming perceptions of audit partners, the group showcases a culture of open communication, continuous improvement, and unwavering teamwork. The conversation doesn't stop here—tune in to Thursday's episode for part two with this inspiring crew! This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ekuY0Q-_Y00  Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com                              Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-river-retail  

Guest host Sam Blum, Director of Customer Experience, is joined by three Retail Operations leaders from Broad River Retail — Wes Dudley, VP of Customer Experience & Retail Operations, Andrew Bartlett, Associate Manager, Retail Operations, and Katrina Batchelor, Associate Manager, Retail Operations. Together, they explore how the Retail Ops team has grown, transformed, and redefined its role in delivering exceptional support to both Memory Makers and guests. From their unique journeys into Retail Ops to navigating early inefficiencies and learning curves, the group shares how the department has become more agile, innovative, and forward-thinking. They dive into the creation of the Associate Manager role, the importance of building strong store partnerships, and the culture of collaboration and consistency that fuels their work today. Looking ahead, they share how Retail Ops plans to be pioneers in 2025 and beyond, including efforts to standardize processes, expand digital tools, and continue empowering teams to provide seamless experiences. The episode wraps with a fun twist—each guest shares which fictional character best represents Retail Ops, spotlighting the adaptability, grit, and heart of the team. Don't miss this insightful conversation about the evolution of a team that's always moving forward! This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/n1U7Vx6wlLY  Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com                              Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-river-retail  

Guest host Sam Blum, Director of Customer Experience, is joined by three Retail Operations leaders from Broad River Retail — Wes Dudley, VP of Customer Experience & Retail Operations, Andrew Bartlett, Associate Manager, Retail Operations, and Katrina Batchelor, Associate Manager, Retail Operations. Together, they explore how the Retail Ops team has grown, transformed, and redefined its role in delivering exceptional support to both Memory Makers and guests. From their unique journeys into Retail Ops to navigating early inefficiencies and learning curves, the group shares how the department has become more agile, innovative, and forward-thinking. They dive into the creation of the Associate Manager role, the importance of building strong store partnerships, and the culture of collaboration and consistency that fuels their work today. Looking ahead, they share how Retail Ops plans to be pioneers in 2025 and beyond, including efforts to standardize processes, expand digital tools, and continue empowering teams to provide seamless experiences. The episode wraps with a fun twist—each guest shares which fictional character best represents Retail Ops, spotlighting the adaptability, grit, and heart of the team. Don't miss this insightful conversation about the evolution of a team that's always moving forward! This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/n1U7Vx6wlLY  Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com                              Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-river-retail  

Welcome to the first episode in our special Stories from the River series spotlighting the evolution and impact of Retail Operations at Broad River Retail! In this nostalgic kickoff episode, guest host Sam Blum, Director of Customer Experience, is joined in studio by a panel of incredible pioneers who helped lay the foundation for what we now know as Retail Ops: Kellie Jones, Senior Manager of Retail Operations, Molly Angelo-Teisch, Associate Manager of Retail Operations – North, and Cathy Aleman, Senior Retail Experience Manager. Together, they take a trip down memory lane—reflecting on what Guest Services looked like nearly a decade ago, from fielding countless store calls and manually uploading documents, to the early inefficiencies that sparked a need for change. Listeners will hear how the team navigated a major transformation—moving from a support-heavy model to a system that empowered Home Furnishing Consultants to own the guest journey, supported by new technology, training, and structure. Through it all, these Memory Makers share how they supported stores, embraced change, and built a culture focused on service, innovation, and operational excellence. The episode wraps with reflections, pride in the journey, and a fun twist: each guest shares the theme song they think best captures the spirit of Retail Ops. Don't miss this foundational episode—and be sure to tune in for Part Two coming soon! This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/d9hMVBQ9gWU  Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com                              Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-river-retail  

Welcome to the first episode in our special Stories from the River series spotlighting the evolution and impact of Retail Operations at Broad River Retail! In this nostalgic kickoff episode, guest host Sam Blum, Director of Customer Experience, is joined in studio by a panel of incredible pioneers who helped lay the foundation for what we now know as Retail Ops: Kellie Jones, Senior Manager of Retail Operations, Molly Angelo-Teisch, Associate Manager of Retail Operations – North, and Cathy Aleman, Senior Retail Experience Manager. Together, they take a trip down memory lane—reflecting on what Guest Services looked like nearly a decade ago, from fielding countless store calls and manually uploading documents, to the early inefficiencies that sparked a need for change. Listeners will hear how the team navigated a major transformation—moving from a support-heavy model to a system that empowered Home Furnishing Consultants to own the guest journey, supported by new technology, training, and structure. Through it all, these Memory Makers share how they supported stores, embraced change, and built a culture focused on service, innovation, and operational excellence. The episode wraps with reflections, pride in the journey, and a fun twist: each guest shares the theme song they think best captures the spirit of Retail Ops. Don't miss this foundational episode—and be sure to tune in for Part Two coming soon! This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/d9hMVBQ9gWU  Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com                              Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-river-retail  

The Athletic's Sam Blum and former Sports Illustrated baseball editor Connor Grossman are back with another episode. They discuss the Angels' putrid offense, capped off by a thrilling walk-off win on Sunday. Can that comeback spark an otherwise struggling team? Plus they talk about an odd Angels start time this week, and the implications of a decision by Angels management.

The Athletic's Sam Blum and former Sports Illustrated baseball editor Connor Grossman discuss the Angels' 6-3 start. Is it real or a mirage? Can they keep up the winning ways, or will 2025 be the same old LA Angels? Also, what do we make of the Anaheim mayor's open letter to Arte Moreno? And what's with the Angels' new injury reporting policy?

On today's episode, MLB Writer for The Athletic Sam Blum joins Jason to deliver all the details you need to know about the torpedo bat, after the Yankees huge weekend caused the bat to take the league by storm. Blum breaks down the history and legalities of the bat and explains why he wouldn't be surprised to see every team using them very soon. Plus, Jason reacts to the Lakers holding off the Rockets on Monday night and explains why Houston is very vulnerable in the playoffs despite their strong season. Click here to subscribe, rate and review all of the latest Straight Fire with Jason McIntyre podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bob and Ryan Rowland-Smith are joined by MLB writer for The Athletic Sam Blum to her why he selected the Mariners to win the World Series in 2025, they give their predictions for the Mariners opening day roster, they break down how Julio has looked in Spring Training, and they wrap up the show by finding out what we learned today! 

The Athletic's Sam Blum and former Sports Illustrated baseball editor Connor Grossman are back with another episode of Calling All Halos. They discuss the Angels' new policy banning cell phones in the clubhouse, the José Suarez trade, and most importantly, will they be any better in 2025? Additionally, they debate which young player makes the most sense to lock up with a contract extension.

Welcome back to the second episode of the Freshworks series on Stories from the River! Guest host Sam Blum led a discussion with Wes Dudley and Anita Harris, recognized as the CX Executives of the Year, and Alicia Thompson, a River award recipient for 2024. From Freshworks, Patrick Rhodes and Lauren Lee join the conversation.   They discussed the benefits and lessons learned from utilizing Freshdesk, highlighting its positive impact on operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Wes Dudley and Anita Harris emphasized the effective change management process, credits to Alicia Thompson, which allowed the organization to seamlessly transition to the new platform before the busy retail season. Anita shared that the new automations have decreased mistakes and improved efficiency, resulting in minimal customer complaints and a positive overall experience for their Memory Makers using Freshdesk. The episode also explored the future plans and potential upgrades within the Freshworks platform, as well as the significance of ongoing partnership and collaboration between Broad River and Freshworks. Alicia and Anita highlighted the exciting upcoming features that Freshdesk offers, such as a knowledge base and a customized customer portal, which aims to enhance problem resolution speed and customer engagement.  Together, they further delved into the importance of a technology solution that is adaptable to the client's needs, ultimately enhancing the customer experience while maintaining a humanized approach. Throughout the episode, there was a strong emphasis on trust, collaboration, and the shared goal of continuously improving the customer service journey with the aid of Freshdesk technology. This episode on YouTube:  Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com                             Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-river-retail 

Welcome back to the second episode of the Freshworks series on Stories from the River! Guest host Sam Blum led a discussion with Wes Dudley and Anita Harris, recognized as the CX Executives of the Year, and Alicia Thompson, a River award recipient for 2024. From Freshworks, Patrick Rhoads and Lauren Lee join the conversation.   They discussed the benefits and lessons learned from utilizing Freshdesk, highlighting its positive impact on operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Wes Dudley and Anita Harris emphasized the effective change management process, credits to Alicia Thompson, which allowed the organization to seamlessly transition to the new platform before the busy retail season. Anita shared that the new automations have decreased mistakes and improved efficiency, resulting in minimal customer complaints and a positive overall experience for their Memory Makers using Freshdesk. The episode also explored the future plans and potential upgrades within the Freshworks platform, as well as the significance of ongoing partnership and collaboration between Broad River and Freshworks. Alicia and Anita highlighted the exciting upcoming features that Freshdesk offers, such as a knowledge base and a customized customer portal, which aims to enhance problem resolution speed and customer engagement.  Together, they further delved into the importance of a technology solution that is adaptable to the client's needs, ultimately enhancing the customer experience while maintaining a humanized approach. Throughout the episode, there was a strong emphasis on trust, collaboration, and the shared goal of continuously improving the customer service journey with the aid of Freshdesk technology. This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/BCm_iXeXOhw  Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com                             Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-river-retail 

The Athletic's Sam Blum and former Sports Illustrated baseball editor Connor Grossman are back with a new episode of Calling All Halos. They discuss Anthony Rendon's season-ending injury, and predict how his time with the Angels will officially end. Plus, we guess the Angels' final record for 2025, and assess some of the recent moves they've made, adding Kenley Jansen and Yoan Moncada.

Welcome to the first episode of the Freshworks Series on Stories from the River! To kick off the series, guest host Sam Blum leads a vibrant discussion about Broad River Retail's integration with Freshworks' Freshdesk platform. Sam introduces Wes Dudley and Anita Harris, recognized as the CX Executives of the Year, and Alicia Thompson, a River award recipient for 2024. From Freshworks, Patrick Rhodes and Lauren Lee join the conversation.  The dialogue revolves around the vendor selection process, the decision-making journey, and the implementation of Freshdesk. Anita Harris elaborates on how Broad River is leveraging Freshdesk to manage customer concerns efficiently, making use of its case management ticketing system. Alicia Thompson highlights that Freshdesk serves multiple departments, including sales audit and inventory, beyond the customer-facing sides of the business. The transition to Freshdesk has had a significant impact due to its collaboration capabilities, which align well with the needs of Broad River's various Memory Makers. The episode details the advantageous features of Freshdesk, such as its ease of use, supportive admin side, and collaborative potential, emphasized by Anita and Wes. Patrick Rhodes and Lauren Lee speak to the personalized approach and partnership that Freshworks offered, making them the perfect fit for Broad River. Freshdesk has become a valuable tool in enhancing customer service and adaptability within Broad River Retail. This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-tqzveb9wg0  Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com                             Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-river-retail 

Welcome to the first episode of the Freshworks Series on Stories from the River! To kick off the series, guest host Sam Blum leads a vibrant discussion about Broad River Retail's integration with Freshworks' Freshdesk platform. Sam introduces Wes Dudley and Anita Harris, recognized as the CX Executives of the Year, and Alicia Thompson, a River award recipient for 2024. From Freshworks, Patrick Rhoads and Lauren Lee join the conversation.  The dialogue revolves around the vendor selection process, the decision-making journey, and the implementation of Freshdesk. Anita Harris elaborates on how Broad River is leveraging Freshdesk to manage customer concerns efficiently, making use of its case management ticketing system. Alicia Thompson highlights that Freshdesk serves multiple departments, including sales audit and inventory, beyond the customer-facing sides of the business. The transition to Freshdesk has had a significant impact due to its collaboration capabilities, which align well with the needs of Broad River's various Memory Makers. The episode details the advantageous features of Freshdesk, such as its ease of use, supportive admin side, and collaborative potential, emphasized by Anita and Wes. Patrick Rhodes and Lauren Lee speak to the personalized approach and partnership that Freshworks offered, making them the perfect fit for Broad River. Freshdesk has become a valuable tool in enhancing customer service and adaptability within Broad River Retail. This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZULpOf8quQU  Visit https://www.storiesfromtheriver.com for more episodes. Broad River Retail brought this show to you. Visit https://BroadRiverRetail.com                             Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-river-retail 

Bob and Dave are joined by Sam Blum of The Athletic to discuss how the Mariners stack up against the Angels heading into 2025, they lay out some of their expectations for the Mariners as they prepare for Spring Training, they ask if the Chiefs can still be considered a dynasty after failing to three-peat and losing Super Bowl LIX to the Eagles, and they bring you the latest on the Anthony Davis/ Luka Doncic in the NBA. 

The Athletic's Sam Blum and former Sports Illustrated baseball editor Connor Grossman discuss the Angels offseason. The team has done almost nothing the last 10 weeks after promising to be aggressive this winter to overhaul a roster that finished 63-99 last season. Plus, what do we make of the Pete Alonso rumors? And does the Luca Doncic trade evoke thoughts of what a Mike Trout deal could look like?

Sam Blum from The Athletic joins the show after writing an in depth piece on how the Ducks embrace thieir Anaheim roots while the Angels are still trying to cling to something they aren't. The Dodgers, Magic Johnson and Mark Walter are part of a pretty special group that will help raise funds to help victims of the Alta Dena and Palisades fires. Jimmy Butler has yet again been suspended by the Heat - will anyone be willing to give him a major contract in the offseason?

The Athletic's Sam Blum and former Sports Illustrated baseball editor Connor Grossman dive into the Angels' offseason. It's been very busy, with many additions. But what does it actually mean for a franchise that won 63 games last year, and hasn't had a winning season in a decade? Is this actually moving in the right direction? Or is it just another year of selling fans on contention without a roster to match?

The Athletic's Sam Blum and former Sports Illustrated baseball editor Connor Grossman are back with another episode of Calling All Halos. They discuss the Angels' offseason plan, or lack thereof. With all spending done on a "case-by-case" basis, GM Perry Minasian has limited autonomy. Also, will Anthony Rendon be released? And which other free agents might the Angels pursue?

For episode 22 of Staffcast, Tom, Richard, and guest host Chelsea Janes are joined by the Athletic's Sam Blum to talk about the horrors of the 2024 White Sox, the post-Shohei Angels, being on the Major League injured list, getting booed as a writer, the joys of covering awful teams, and more! Follow your incredibly cool hosts and guests on Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠twitter.com/whatwouldDOOdo⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠twitter.com/t_hildy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠twitter.com/RichardStaff⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠twitter.com/HackAttackimer⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠twitter.com/ChelseaJanes ⁠twitter.com/SamBlum3 Episode art by Abigail Noy (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠sympatheticinker.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) Edited by Italian Dave (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠twitter.com/theitaliandave⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) Intro: Calling All Angels - Train Outro: Shooting Stars - Bag Raiders

The Athletic's Sam Blum and former Sports Illustrated baseball editor Connor Grossman discuss the state of the Angels. The roster isn't ideal. The long-term outlook isn't either. Is there any reason for optimism? Plus the fan that caught Shohei Ohtani's 50-50 home run ball didn't give it back. Should he have?

The Athletic's Sam Blum and former Sports Illustrated baseball editor Connor Grossman discuss the Angels' decision to extend GM Perry Minasian for two seasons. Is the team headed in the right direction? And what should they do about Anthony Rendon after another bad season? Plus the Angels called up two of their top pitching prospects. What should we expect?

Blake Murphy is joined by Keegan Matheson to recap the weekend series vs. the Athletics and bright spots for the rest of the season. Manny Randhawa (31:01) details the trio of ‘Jacksons' who are popping off in the MLB. Brandon Wile (53:36) discusses what's gone wrong for the Red Sox. In the final segment, Sam Blum (1:15:31) gets you caught up with the latest on the LA Angels ahead of the three-game set.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

The Athletic's Sam Blum and former Sports Illustrated baseball editor Connor Grossman discuss the red-hot Halos. Their young players are firing on all cylinders. The growth that they've preached is proving to be legit? So what does that mean for their competitive window? What does it mean for their offseason? What does it mean for the future of manager Ron Washington and GM Perry Minasian?

LA Angels insider Sam Blum from The Athletic joined the show. Taylor Ward will likely be on the move as we get closer to the trade deadline – where does Sam think he's going to go? Sam talked about the “epic” slump Ward has been in since the middle of May. Sam thinks Ward can be a middle of the lineup bat, but he's been very streaky over the course of his career. After a nasty injury in 2023, Sam explained why Ward might be in his own head a little bit. Sam got into his position flexibility, but said he is definitely more fit in the outfield.

The All Star Game ratings are out and Pittsburgh is #1. It's simple – it's Paul Skenes. The man has done the impossible – he has brought back the casual fan of Pirates baseball. Are you surprised a singular player was able to pull it off? Is Paul Skenes bringing fans back to baseball? LA Angels insider Sam Blum from The Athletic joined the show. Taylor Ward will likely be on the move as we get closer to the trade deadline – where does Sam think he's going to go? Sam talked about the “epic” slump Ward has been in since the middle of May. Sam thinks Ward can be a middle of the lineup bat, but he's been very streaky over the course of his career. After a nasty injury in 2023, Sam explained why Ward might be in his own head a little bit. Sam got into his position flexibility, but said he is definitely more fit in the outfield.

4pm: The impact of getting the real Julio back // Casey what do you think of this from being in a clubhouse? Have you ever seen a guy flip the switch? // what type of additions would be the best at the trade deadline // SAM BLUM, Angels beat writer for The Athletic // Sweeping the Dial // Harold Reynolds - thinks that Vlad Guerrero Jr would be a great fit in Seattle // Danny Kelly From The Ringer- Sees JSN playing a Jalen McMillian role like UW had under Ryan Grubb // Dan Shulman - on who might be available from Toronto at the trade deadline.

The Athletic's Sam Blum and former Sports Illustrated baseball editor Connor Grossman discuss the red-hot Angels on this new episode. But more importantly, they assess whether the winning ways should impact the trade deadline. Or, big picture, how we view the Angels' direction. Plus, is Logan O'Hoppe the Angels' captain? And what's it like to watch a game in Oakland this season?

Sam Blum of The Athletic joins Eno and DVR to discuss all things Angels, including the impact of manager Ron Washington during a challenging year, the overall direction of the club with Arte Moreno's decision to continue forward as owner, and the future of Mike Trout. Rundown0:43 The Impact of Ron Washington on the 2024 Angels7:23 Missed Opportunities to Add Depth11:52 Should the Angels Have Perry Minasian Lead the Rebuild?17:00 Fast Promotions for Zach Neto & Nolan Schanuel21:00 Angels Prospects Nearing an Opportunity26:11 Arte Moreno's Decision to Take the Team Off the Market31:09 Mike Trout's Future in Anaheim41:10 José Soriano as a Key Piece of the Core?Follow Eno on Twitter: @enosarrisFollow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiperFollow Sam on Twitter: @SamBlum3e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.comJoin our Discord: https://discord.gg/FyBa9f3wFeJoin us on Fridays at 1p ET/10a PT for our livestream episodes!Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sam Blum of The Athletic joins Eno and DVR to discuss all things Angels, including the impact of manager Ron Washington during a challenging year, the overall direction of the club with Arte Moreno's decision to continue forward as owner, and the future of Mike Trout.  Rundown 0:43 The Impact of Ron Washington on the 2024 Angels 7:23 Missed Opportunities to Add Depth 11:52 Should the Angels Have Perry Minasian Lead the Rebuild? 17:00 Fast Promotions for Zach Neto & Nolan Schanuel 21:00 Angels Prospects Nearing an Opportunity 26:11 Arte Moreno's Decision to Take the Team Off the Market 31:09 Mike Trout's Future in Anaheim 41:10 José Soriano as a Key Piece of the Core? Follow Eno on Twitter: @enosarris Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper Follow Sam on Twitter: @SamBlum3 e-mail: ratesandbarrels@gmail.com Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/FyBa9f3wFe Join us on Fridays at 1p ET/10a PT for our livestream episodes! Subscribe to The Athletic: theathletic.com/ratesandbarrels Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Athletic's Sam Blum and former Sports Illustrated baseball editor Connor Grossman mix things up on this episode of Calling All Halos. They take questions from listeners about the state of the franchise, prospects, the front office/coaching staff and much more. When will Arte Moreno sell? Which young players can you build around? Is there any hope? Listen to hear our thoughts.

In a new edition of On the Record, Sam Blum of The Athletic hops on to preview this week's Diamondbacks-Angels series. Mike Trout is currently out with a meniscus injury, but could the Angels pull the trigger on a trade anyway? We also discuss what's gone right for the Angels this year, what hasn't and whether Ron Washington has been a good fit as manager. An ALLCITY Network Production SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube: https://bit.ly/phnx_youtube ALL THINGS PHNX: http://linktr.ee/phnxsports  PHNX Events: Get your tickets to PHNX events and takeovers here: https://gophnx.com/events/ Factor Mealkits: Use code PHNXDBACKS50 to get 50% OFF your first Factor box and free wellness shots for life with any active subscription at https://factormeals.com/phnxdbacks50 Mint Mobile: To get your new 3-month unlimited wireless plan for just 15 bucks a month, go to https://mintmobile.com/diamondbacks.  $45 upfront payment required (equivalent to $15/mo.). New customers on first 3 month plan only. Speeds slower above 40GB on Unlimited plan. Additional taxes, fees, & restrictions apply. See MINT MOBILE for details. Desert Financial Credit Union: Open a free checking account online with Desert Financial Credit Union and get $200 in bonuses https://www.desertfinancial.com/200 Gametime: Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code PHNX for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Circle K:  Join Inner Circle for free by downloading the Circle K app today! Head to https://www.circlek.com/store-locator to find Circle Ks near you! OGeez!: OGeez! is not your average cannabis-infused gummy. Head over to https://www.ogeezbrands.com to find where you can purchase. Must be 21+. Enjoy responsibly.  Four Peaks: Follow on social @fourpeaksbrew & @fourpeakspub! Must be 21+. Enjoy responsibly.  Shady Rays: Exclusively for our listeners, Shady Rays is giving out their best deal of the season. Head to https://shadyrays.com and use code: PHNX for 35% off polarized sunglasses. Try for yourself the shades rated 5 stars by over 300,000 people. Chicken N Pickle: Head to https://chickennpickle.com to see all the fun you can have at their Glendale location! PHNX will be hosting Trivia Nights and Pickleball Tournaments so stay tuned for info! When you shop through links in the description, we may earn affiliate commissions. Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Athletic's Sam Blum and former Sports Illustrated baseball editor Connor Grossman discuss the Angels trade deadline strategy. With the postseason seemingly out of reach once again, should the Angels trade players like Taylor Ward, Luis Rengifo, Patrick Sandoval, etc., despite having years of team control? Plus, we discuss Ron Washington's managerial style and GM Perry Minasian's decision to decline The Athletic's interview request.

On this week's edition of  Inside the (Rob) Parker, Rob discusses Mike Trout going down with a potentially season-ending injury yet again, the AL East heavyweight battle currently going down between the Baltimore Orioles and the New York Yankees and the Houston Astros' swift fall from grace. Plus, Minnesota Twins shortstop Carlos Correa swings by to discuss the team's sudden surge, his approach to the season and why health is so important for their long-term success. Later, The Athletic's Sam Blum checks in to discuss how Trout's lengthy injury history could impact his legacy, the Los Angeles Angels' history of bad luck and bad decision making and where the club goes from here. Finally, we've got appearances by MLBBro.com managing editor JR Gamble and analytics guru Anthony Masterson. Subscribe and download all of the latest Inside the Parker podcasts and follow Rob on Twitter!!  #OddCouple See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Los Angeles Angels starting pitcher Patrick Sandoval spoke with Sam Blum of The Athletic recently, and he discussed wearing his emotions on his sleeve every time he is on the mound. How does Sandoval view his outbursts and anger when things don't go his way? Do the Super Halo Bros. buy his explanation? We'll share the interview with you and our perspective on Sandoval maintaining his composure in segment 1!Then, the Angels fell short in yesterday's game against the Philadelphia Phillies, losing 2-1 in a tightly contested game that saw the Halos have plenty of opportunities to score and add runs, but end up squandering all of their chances. What did we make of this game and this entire series? Did the Angels show that they could actually win ball games against tough clubs if the circumstances had gone differently? We'll discuss in segment 2!Plus, the best bullpen in the Angels' organization isn't the one worth $40 million; it's actually another part of the organization! We'll tell you who it is and who is part of it in segment 3! GET IN OUR VOICEMAIL! CALL US: (714) 409-6396Tell us what's on your mind!Give us a follow @LockedOnAngels on Twitter, and for the best Angels memes around, connect with us on Instagram and Twitter @SuperHaloBros!Super Halo Bros. MERCH is available now! super-halo-bros-shop.fourthwall.com Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!DoorDashGet all your Mother's Day gifts, all in one place and get 50% off your next order, up to $15 when you spend $15+ on your next flower, convenience, grocery, or retail order now with code LOCKEDONMLB. That's LOCKEDONMLB. Order using DoorDash today. Terms apply.Monopoly GO!Get in the game and join your friends. Click HERE to Download MONOPOLY GO! now free on The App Store or Google Play.PrizePicksGo to PrizePicks.com/lockedonmlb and use code lockedonmlb for a first deposit match up to $100!eBay MotorsFrom brakes to exhaust kits and beyond, eBay Motors has over 122 million parts to keep your ride-or-die alive. With all the parts you need at the prices you want, it's easy to bring home that big win. Keep your ride-or-die alive at EbayMotors.com. Eligible items only. Exclusions apply. eBay Guaranteed Fit only available to US customers.GametimeDownload the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase.FanDuelFanDuel, America's Number One Sportsbook. Right now, NEW customers get ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS with any winning GUARANTEED That's A HUNDRED AND FIFTY BUCKS – win or lose! Visit FanDuel.com/LOCKEDON to get started. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Shohei Ohtani hit his first homerun as a Los Angeles Dodger and it has only sparked more controversy for their newest star player, so Dan talks to Dodgers insider Sam Blum and gets all the details. And Dan and the Danettes experience an earthquake in the studio.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris and Rob discuss the narrative that the Dallas Cowboys would be fine allowing Dak Prescott to just play out the final year of his contract in 2024 before deciding on a possible extension and explain why the NBA is doing the right thing by shutting down the G-League Ignite team. Plus, Sam Blum of The Athletic swings by to discuss all the happenings surrounding the investigation into Shohei Ohtani and his interpreter's illegal gambling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Angels and MLB writer for The Athletic talks Shohei Ohtani gambling scandal.