Blue Jays Talk

The Blue Jays have reportedly reached a three-year, $30 million deal with right-hander Cody Ponce, who was named KBO MVP last season - what does this mean for the starting rotation? MLB Network's Jon Morosi (1:49) stops by the FAN Morning Show with Brent Gunning and Sho Alli to break down why fans should be excited and what this means for people like José Berríos or Trey Yesavage when the regular season arrives, and gets into the evolving closer market around baseball as well. Afterwards, Sportsnet's Shi Davidi (21:31) discusses Ponce's stuff and whether or not it will play when he returns to MLB, and what this means for other pieces of business as the Jays off-season rolls on. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Dylan Cease's colossal seven-year, $210 million signing rocked the Blue Jays' offseason, sparking discussions about the team's rotation and future strategies. The hosts analyze Cease's impressive pitch metrics and how Toronto's stellar defense could enhance his performance. Fans chime in with their excitement, seeing this deal as a bold statement. The conversation expands to potential offseason spending, targeting marquee players and exploring trade options that could further bolster the roster.

Ben Nicholson-Smith, Senior baseball writer for Sportsnet.ca, joins the discussion from the GM Meetings in Vegas. He shares insights on the Blue Jays' strategy for the offseason and their focus on improving starting pitching. The potential return of Bo Bichette sparks debate about team dynamics and roster construction. They delve into the Jays' growing presence in Asian markets and explore prospects for signing both Bichette and star Kyle Tucker. Additionally, the conversation touches on John Schneider's near win for Manager of the Year, highlighting the team's recent performance.

Shi Davidi, a veteran baseball reporter for Sportsnet.ca, joins to discuss Shane Bieber's surprising decision to exercise his $16-million option for 2026. They delve into why this move benefits Bieber's market position as he hopes to redefine his career after Tommy John surgery. The conversation also highlights the strong culture within the Blue Jays’ clubhouse and how it may have influenced his choice. Finally, they assess the rotation outlook and the need for strategic offseason improvements.

Daniele Franceschi, a Sportsnet host, reflects on the Blue Jays' World Series loss and the importance of clubhouse culture. Jesse Rubinoff shares his emotional Game 7 experience and analyzes the team’s needs for the offseason. Zach Worden discusses free-agent priorities, emphasizing the need for impactful starters. Ian Harrison places the season's significance in historical context, highlighting key franchise milestones. The group debates whether to keep Bo Bichette while contemplating future spending amid potential labor uncertainty.

Dan Shulman, the veteran Sportsnet play-by-play voice, shares the emotional weight of calling the World Series as a Toronto native. Shai Davidi, MLB insider, vividly discusses the clubhouse's devastation after the season's end and the impact of pivotal moments in the postseason. Ben Shulman reflects on memorable moments and the cultural significance of the Blue Jays' run. Together, they dive into tough offseason decisions, including Bo Bichette's uncertain future and the balance between retaining core players and targeting free agents.

Kevin Pillar, former Blue Jays outfielder, joins the conversation with firsthand insights after the team's heartbreaking Game 7 loss to the Dodgers in the World Series. Pillar reflects on the emotional rollercoaster as the Jays fell short, highlighting pivotal moments that shifted the game's momentum. He discusses player bonds and resilience, offering wisdom on using disappointment as motivation. The chat also dives into the futures of key players like Bo Bichette and the prospects of the team moving forward, creating an engaging mix of analysis and heartfelt reflection.

In a tense Game 6, the Blue Jays faced heartbreak with a bizarre ninth inning featuring a wedged ball that halted a potentially game-tying hit. The hosts dive into Addison Barger's controversial baserunning decision and Kevin Gausman's challenging third inning. They also assess missed offensive opportunities against Yoshinobu Yamamoto and debate pitching strategies for the decisive Game 7. With optimism for a comeback, fans weigh in on tactical choices and reflect on the team's resilience as they prepare for the thrilling finale.

Sportsnet reporter Madison Shipman shares insights on the Blue Jays facing star pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, discussing tactical adjustments and the importance of two-strike approaches. Veteran pitcher Lance Lynn reflects on young talent Trey Yusavage's performance and the value of mentorship in postseason play. MLB analyst Chris Young highlights the versatility of the Blue Jays' offense and praises Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s poise under pressure. Lastly, Fabian Ardaya offers an in-depth analysis of the Dodgers' lineup challenges ahead of Game 6.

Julia Kreuz and Sho Alli recap the massive Game 5 win vs. the Dodgers. They touch on Trey Yesavage’s outing, the back-to-back homers from Davis Schneider and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., along with the run production late in the game (31:11). They’re joined by former Blue Jay Rance Mulliniks (50:28) to discuss Toronto’s brand of baseball, winning in the postseason and more. Lastly, Fox Sports’ Deesha Thosar (1:16:41) pops in to give her thoughts on the Dodgers being a loss away from the losing the series, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Toronto’s grit.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.