Verdugo Plays the Villain & Catching with Caleb

A Series to Forget in Cleveland: Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker examine the Blue Jays latest series against the Guardians, where Toronto dropped three of four in Cleveland. They start the show off discussing Alek Manoah’s performance in the series finale and his post-game comments on having difficulty gripping the baseballs; before talking about Teoscar Hernandez’s return, Vladimir Guerrero Jr’s approach, and the current struggles of Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Matt Chapman at the plate. Afterwards, the guys debut their new segment In The East to take a further look at the AL East and the teams surrounding the Blue Jays in the standings (28:15). 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. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

Miguel Cabrera: Mr. 3000: Jeff and Kevin welcome Former Marlins President David Samson to the show to discuss Miguel Cabrera reaching 3000 hits, how he grew into one of the sport’s best hitters, why they had to trade him to the Tigers, and who else was involved in the talks (02:23). Former Red Sox infielder Lou Merloni previews the upcoming Red Sox-Blue Jays series and how Boston will adjust with unvaccinated players like Tanner Houck unable to make the trip (29:44). Barker’s Back Leg Bits looks at the possibility of an automatic strike and ball-calling system after a tough game for home plate umpire Angel Hernandez on Sunday Night Baseball (39:36). 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. by Blair & Barker

47 min listen

Bats Go Silent in Beantown: The Blue Jays dropped the series opener against the Boston Red Sox 2-1 and Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker break it all down discussing Yusei Kikuchi’s outing, Bo Bichette’s defence, and the Jays’ lack of production with runners in scoring position (1:14). Afterwards, the guys open up the phone lines and take calls on prospect Gabriel Moreno, the Raimel Tapia-Randal Grichuk deal, Kikuchi’s start and upcoming opponents, and the lineup without Teoscar Hernandez (24:42). 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. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

Springer and Berrios Step Up: Jeff and Kevin kick off the show discussing the Houston Astros' 13-4 rout of the Boston Red Sox before moving on to the Blue Jays’ 3-0 win over the Seattle Mariners, led by Jose Berrios’ seven strong innings and George Springer’s base-clearing triple. Sportsnet’s Shi Davidi joins the guys to talk about Springer’s impact to the Blue Jays’ clubhouse both on and off the field and addresses who needs to step up in the bullpen with Tim Mayza’s injury (26:49). 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. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

Carlos Baerga Joins + Back Leg Bits Extended Cut: Jeff and Kevin re-visit Yusei Kikuchi’s last start against Boston, the confidence he can gain from it, and pitching coach Pete Walker working with him as the newest member of the rotation (09:34). They also assess how Alejandro Kirk has handled the pitching staff after taking over for Danny Jansen behind the plate. Later on, three-time All-Star and MLB insider Carlos Baerga talks about what MLB is doing to speed up the game, Miguel Cabrera’s pursuit of 3000 hits, if there will ever be another person to accomplish the feat, and the art of switch-hitting (26:16). 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. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

Jays Fly Home After a 4-2 Road Trip: Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker recap a successful road trip for the Blue Jays, despite losing the final game 8-7 to the Houston Astros, and examine how the bullpen has been a catalyst for the team’s success, particularly Yimi Garcia. Afterwards, Blue Jays Central’s Joe Siddall shares his thoughts on Kikuchi’s propensity for throwing the cutter, what he needs to do in his next start, and Bo Bichette’s defence (30:46). 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. by Blair & Barker

52 min listen

Manoah by The Numbers: Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker react to the Blue Jays' 1-0 win over Boston, taking 3 out of 4 games from the Red Sox in the series. They examine Alek Manoah’s performance, how impressive his stats have been since making his MLB debut, and what they need to see out of Yusei Kikuchi when he takes the mound tonight against Houston. 'The Mayor' Sean Casey joins the show with his thoughts on offence being down across baseball, what he’s seen out of the Blue Jays' hitters, and if Joey Votto would ever consider leaving the Reds (25:46). 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. by Blair & Barker

51 min listen

Bo’s Big Bash Sinks Boston: Jeff and Kevin recap the Blue Jays' 6-2 win over the Red Sox - led by Bo Bichette’s tie-breaking grand slam in the eighth inning! They discuss how big of a hit it was for both the team and Bichette personally, Toronto’s strong start with the potential to see even more from Alek Manoah and Jose Berrios, and the effort from Adam Cimber and the bullpen (00:36). Sportsnet’s Dan Shulman discusses the Blue Jays’ team camaraderie, league-wide likability, Charlie Montoyo putting the bullpen in positions to succeed, and Berrios’ demeanour on the mound (26:40). 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. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

Early Season Reactions with Ross Atkins: Blair and Barker are joined by Toronto Blue Jays' GM Ross Atkins to provide his thoughts on his team’s play in the early portion of the season. The guys discuss Bo Bichette following his big game, the energy of the home crowd at Rogers Centre, Alejandro Kirk’s defence behind the plate, and the overall feeling of excitement around the clubhouse. 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. by Blair & Barker

33 min listen

Porter & Passan Join the Show: MLB Network Analyst and former Houston Astros Manager Bo Porter shares his thoughts on offence being down across MLB, the pressure that Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and other star players put on themselves to be great, and the frustration towards umpires in the early-going of the season (01:43). ESPN's MLB Insider Jeff Passan talks about the Blue Jays' current struggles, why he’s not concerned about their starting pitching, their search for a lefty bat, and if the Nationals’ Josh Bell would be a good fit for Toronto’s batting order (26:26). 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. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

Gausman’s Gem Bests the Bo Sox: Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker discuss the Blue Jays’ latest series victory after taking the rubber match 3-2 at Fenway Park, fueled by the best performance by a Blue Jays’ starter so far this season as Kevin Gausman pitched eight strong innings, striking out eight batters without issuing a walk (00:17). Afterwards, Astros studio analyst Mike Stanton shares what the Blue Jays can expect from Houston this weekend; specifically starter Justin Verlander after missing significant time due to Tommy John surgery (27:20). 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. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

Vladdy Jr. Gets The Day Off: Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker start off breaking down the lineups ahead of the Blue Jays - Red Sox finale, including days off for Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Xander Bogaerts (00:05). WEEI's Rob Bradford stops by to break down the game of pitcher Garrett Whitlock and why Bogaerts still doesn't have a long term deal (11:14). Sportsnet's Ben Wagner joins from Rogers Centre to shed some light on the foot injury for Vladdy Jr., and what injury replacements could fill in if Teoscar Hernandez is unable to go in the next few weeks (33:17). 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. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

Early Season Analysis with Mo Vaughn & Brad Lidge: 1995 American League MVP and Red Sox analyst Mo Vaughn discusses the offensive struggles for certain teams to start the season, what Trevor Story brings to the Red Sox, and what makes a great defensive first baseman (1:45). Later, former All-Star closer and MLB Network Radio host Brad Lidge talks about the emergence of Jordan Romano, the adrenaline that takes over in the ninth inning, and knowing your strengths as a closer (26:03). 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. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

Gaus: Pitching Like a Boss: Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker open by reacting to another series win for the Toronto Blue Jays, stealing the rubber match against the Houston Astros 3-2 at Rogers Centre led by starter Kevin Gausman, who has yet to walk a batter this season! Blue Jays Central’s Joe Siddall talks about what to expect from Ross Stripling, George Springer’s fantastic play, Vladimir Guerrero Jr’s recent stretch at the plate, and Kevin Gausman’s sequence of pitches when facing hitters (29:53). 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. by Blair & Barker

51 min listen

Pinch Running & Pitch Clocks: Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker look at the Blue Jays 3-2 loss to the New York Yankees at Rogers Centre – the tenth straight victory for the Bronx Bombers. The guys discuss the decision to not pinch run for Alejandro Kirk in the seventh inning, the Yankees employing the pinch runner for the game-winning run, and what they noticed from Yimi Garcia in the ninth inning. Jayson Stark of The Athletic shares his thoughts on the lack of offense across the majors, his read on the Angels and Twins currently atop their divisions, and the pitch clock being used at the minor-league level (31:28). 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 by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

‘Cowboy Joe’ Joins the Show: Joe West, retired MLB umpire and host of 5460: The Joe West Podcast, joined Jeff and Kevin to reflect on his 45-year career (03:33). “Cowboy Joe” discussed why players decide their own strike zone, the Dan Bellino-Madison Bumgarner incident, why it’s easier to call balls and strikes with high-velocity pitchers, and which starting pitchers he enjoyed being behind the plate for the most. Later, the guys head into the weekend with another edition of ‘Barker’s Back Leg Bits’ (43:02)! 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. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

In the Bullpen with Ryan Dempster & Ricky Romero: Host of Off The Mound and World Series Champion pitcher Ryan Dempster weighs-in on Mets starter Chris Bassitt’s comments on the game’s “bad baseballs” and how teams can elevate their game when a particular pitcher is starting on the mound (01:34). Later on, former Blue Jays' All-Star Ricky Romero discusses Kevin Gausman’s splitter, what it’s like as a pitcher to possess a devastating pitch like it, and his thoughts on Bassitt’s comments and the Blue Jays in the early-going (29:14). 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. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

Rose Knows Baseball: Blair and Barker are joined by Jomboy Media’s Chris Rose who discussed Cleveland’s underrated lineup, the struggles of the Red Sox and Phillies, the Padres being better than expected, and the Dodgers winning despite not hitting (01:46). On an extended edition of Barker’s Back Leg Bits, Kevin answers questions about Charlie Montoyo, the shift, and if this year’s edition of the Blue Jays needs a “Josh Donaldson-type” player to be a catalyst for the struggling batting order (29:50). 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. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

Beyond the Numbers with Dante Bichette + Jon Heyman's NY Report: The NY Post’s Jon Heyman joins Blair & Barker to examine the hot starts by both the Yankees and Mets, the mindset behind the Mets' designating Robinson Cano for assignment, and which team’s start is more sustainable (04:49). Later on, four-time MLB All-Star and former Blue Jays' Special Assistant Dante Bichette breaks down what he’s seen from Bo at the plate and how George Springer has helped him this season (26:35). 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. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

Catching Up with Coach Bud and Brian Anderson: Blue Jays First Base Coach Mark Budzinski joins Blair and Barker to discuss how the Rays will challenge Toronto this weekend, the team's increased use of a four-man outfield, and takes us inside the strategy of coaching the team on the base paths (02:01). Afterwards, Tampa Bay Rays TV analyst (and die-hard Maple Leafs fan) Brian Anderson previews the Jays-Rays series and explains what they Blue Jays can expect from the Rays’ pitching staff, notably Friday’s starter Drew Rasmussen (24:52). 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. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

Runs Down as the Astros Come to Town: Jeff and Kevin take a deep dive into why offence has decreased in the early part of the MLB season with The Score’s Travis Sawchik (12:19). With the Blue Jays facing Houston for the second time in a week, the guys ask Astros TV analyst Geoff Blum who has the advantage: pitchers or hitters? Blum also weighs-in with his thoughts on Yusei Kikuchi and what makes him effective and what to expect from the Astros' lineup minus Jose Altuve (31:16). 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. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

A Gausman Gem & Springer Dinger: Jeff and Kevin recap the Blue Jays’ thrilling 6-5 comeback win vs. the Red Sox at Rogers Centre. The guys focus in on George Springer’s big game and game-tying home run, his flair for the dramatic, Raimel Tapia’s at-bat in extra innings to win it, and Kevin Gausman’s second consecutive strong start against Boston. Afterwards, MLB Network’s Bill Ripken joins the guys to share his perspective on the game and how good hitters like Bo Bichette work out of slumps (31:21). 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. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

Zack Attacks Baseballs & Tim Kurkjian: Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker speak with Blue Jays DH/catcher Zack Collins after a successful series against the Oakland A’s and his HR off Nathan Eovaldi Tuesday night at Fenway Park. Collins talks about his experience with the club after coming over from the White Sox, working with the coaching staff, and embracing the hitch in his swing (1:38) . To finish, Hall of Fame writer and broadcaster Tim Kurkijan joins the guys with his early season thoughts and if anything can be learned from small sample sizes this month (24:16). 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. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

Teoscar Hernandez Can’t Return Soon Enough: Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker start off breaking down the Blue Jays' loss 6-5 to the Cleveland Guardians where Jose Berrios only lasted 4.2 innings without a strikeout. They assess Berrios’ start and inconsistency so far this season, the continued struggles at the plate with runners in scoring position, and if George Springer’s rest day should have waited until Teoscar Hernandez returned to the lineup from injury. Afterwards, they discuss the latest around the Majors: the Mets' epic ninth inning comeback, if the Phillies are wasting another year of Bryce Harper’s production, and what's next for Joey Votto and the scuffling Cincinnati Reds (28:13). 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. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

Blue Jays are Bronx Bound (Again!): Blair & Barker are joined by Sportsnet’s Dan Shulman ahead of his call of New York-Toronto at Yankee Stadium to preview the series and the Blue Jays' continuing to search for a lefty bat (01:06). Later on, Talkin’ Yanks host Jake Storiale comments on the current state of the Yankees including: Jose Trevino’s impact behind the plate, Aaron Judge’s contract status being a hot topic in New York, and the pleasant surprises they’ve received in the rotation and bullpen (30:19). 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. by Blair & Barker

50 min listen

Yankees Deep Dive with Jack Curry: Jack Curry of YES Network comments on the Yankees' strong start to the season, if their offense can remain as one of the top in the AL all year long, and how Aaron Boone manages his bullpen (08:16). Later the guys look ahead to Alek Manoah’s start tonight, before heading to the text-line for "Barker's Back Leg Bits" to answer your questions on the shift, why certain umpires are given home plate assignments, and more (30:31)! 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 by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

Hitting Struggles Continue in St. Louis: Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker recap the Blue Jays' 7-3 loss in extra innings to the St. Louis Cardinals. The guys delve into Jose Berrios’ solid start, the usage of the bullpen in the 10th inning, and the lack of production offensively throughout the lineup. Blue Jays Central analyst Joe Siddall shares his thoughts on Ryan Borucki getting into the game, what he’s noticing from Vladimir Guerrero Jr. at the plate, and weighs in on Santiago Espinal's pivotal at-bat in extra innings (31:38). 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. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

When Will the Jays Offence Break Out?: Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker share their thoughts on the Blue Jays 9-1 loss to the New York Yankees, despite another strong performance from Toronto’s Alek Manoah. The guys discuss the Yankees’ big seventh inning to blow the game open, the rundown play involving Vladimir Guerrero Jr. tagging Marwin González with González ruled safe, and the Blue Jays struggles at the plate with runners in scoring position. Hunter Mense, the Blue Jays Assistant Hitting Coach, shares what he is seeing from the team’s hitters and weighs in on offence being down in general across all of baseball (30:06). 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. by Blair & Barker

51 min listen

How Umpires Stole the Show in Arizona: Sportsnet’s Shi Davidi assesses the Blue jays' recent play against tough American League opponents including Houston, New York, and Boston, the contributions they’ve been getting from role players like Bradley Zimmer and Zack Collins, and what the organization sees in newly-signed LHP Derek Holland (04:13). Later, the guys go in-depth on Madison Bumgarner's ejection in yesterday’s MIA-ARI game after being checked thoroughly for foreign substances by 1B umpire Dan Bellino, and head to the text-line for Barker's Back Leg Bits (28:50). 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. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

Derek Holland: The Newest Blue Jay: Jeff and Kevin open this hour by discussing Alejandro Kirk's baserunning lapse that got him picked off last night, and question if taking on more responsibility as catcher is effecting his performance on offence. Later on, WFAN’s Sweeny Murti talks about the Yankees' current 11-game winning streak as they go for the series sweep tonight, and gives the lowdown on tonight’s starter Nestor Cortes and his impressive beginning to the 2022 campaign (11:13). To wrap up, Jeff and Kevin react this morning's breaking news as free-agent LHP Derek Holland shares that he’s headed to the Blue Jays on a minor-league deal (30:50). 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. by Blair & Barker

49 min listen

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Verdugo Plays the Villain & Catching with Caleb

Verdugo Plays the Villain & Catching with Caleb

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