Ray observes that the Phillies appear content with moving Tijuana Walker to the bullpen, viewing it as an internal upgrade. However, he argues that this adjustment alone will not suffice, and the team must pursue an external acquisition to bolster their roster. Additionally, with JT Realmuto's contract nearing its expiration, Ray believes it is time to initiate discussions for a new deal, especially after hearing insights from Jayson Stark earlier in the week.

As the Eagles commence their OTAs this week, Ray expresses concerns regarding the safety position. He advocates for the signing of Justin Simmons to bring in a veteran presence, prompting him to question whether the team has allocated too much of its budget towards the offense at the expense of the defense.

The Eagles experienced a significant loss of over 4,000 defensive snaps during the offseason, raising questions about whether these departures are being underestimated as the team aims to defend its championship title. With key players gone, it will be crucial for others to rise to the occasion, and several individuals have the potential to emerge as breakout stars this season.

In contrast, the Phillies opted for a steady approach this offseason, making no substantial roster changes. This leads to the critical question of whether their current lineup, rotation, and bullpen are sufficient to secure a World Series title this year, or if further enhancements will be necessary to bolster their chances.

Today on Early Birds, Andrew DiCecco breaks down all things OTAs, and shares his thoughts on the Phillies future with JT Realumto.

Connor, Ricky and Sean react to a trade that would send DE Bryce Huff to the 49ers, NFL sources confirmed. According to Adam Schefter, the trade won't become official until after June 1 so Huff’s significant salary cap charge can be spread out vet figure years. Is a Rhys Hoskins reunion in the midst for the Phils??

Andrew opens the show by sharing insights and audio from Kevin Patullo's press conference, which took place earlier in the week.

While OTAs are voluntary, several players, including Bryce Huff, Devonta Smith, and Avery Williams, were absent on the first day. Although some players may be given the benefit of the doubt, it is crucial for others to attend these sessions to hone their skills.

As Cooper DeJean enters his second season, he may need to transition to a different position; Andrew believes he is the team's second-best cornerback and asserts that it is only a matter of time before Cooper plays as an outside corner. Additionally, Andrew highlights several players who stood out to him during the first day of OTAs.

(0:00-11:38)

In light of the injuries occurring during the Phillies vs. Braves series, we offer an update on key players. Bryce Harper is reportedly feeling better, although no specific details have been released regarding his condition. Meanwhile, Braves pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver exited the game after experiencing a pop in his elbow, raising concerns about his health.

(11:38-19:10)

As Harper will not participate in the second game of the doubleheader, Connor shifts his attention to Bryson Stott, who is set to face left-handed pitcher Chris Sale.

(19:10-32:30)

Additionally, Connor poses a question about who will rise to the occasion if Saquon Barkley steps up, suggesting that Jalen Hurts should be the one to take charge

(32:30-43:39)

Finally, we present the results of the latest Twitter poll and offer a preview of the concluding game in the Phillies vs. Braves series.

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(0:00-12:06)

Today, we welcome Andrew to the show to discuss the insights we can gain from a team during OTA sessions. He explains that this period marks the beginning of scheme installations, allowing coaches to place players in various scenarios ahead of Training Camp.

(12:06-19:45)

Connor raises concerns about the secondary, particularly following the departure of some veteran players in the defensive backfield. We focus on key figures such as Drew Makuba, Adoree Jackson, and Kelee Ringo.

(19:45-32:35)

Andrew offers an NFL comparison for rookie Drew Makuba, who made his debut during OTAs. He highlights Makuba's strong tackling skills and his impressive ability to make plays on the ball.

(32:35-41:30)

In our Twitter poll update, Kevin Patullo continues to dominate as the most discussed storyline among Eagles fans. Connor expresses surprise at the significant interest in the defensive line, indicating a diverse range of topics capturing attention.

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(0:00-8:32)

Today, we welcome Andrew to the show to discuss the insights we can gain from a team during OTA sessions. He explains that this period marks the beginning of scheme installations, allowing coaches to place players in various scenarios ahead of Training Camp.

(8:32-16:49)

Connor raises concerns about the secondary, particularly following the departure of some veteran players in the defensive backfield. We focus on key figures such as Drew Makuba, Adoree Jackson, and Kelee Ringo.

(16:49-26:58)

Andrew offers an NFL comparison for rookie Drew Makuba, who made his debut during OTAs. He highlights Makuba's strong tackling skills and his impressive ability to make plays on the ball.

(26:58-36:48)

In our Twitter poll update, Kevin Patullo continues to dominate as the most discussed storyline among Eagles fans. Connor expresses surprise at the significant interest in the defensive line, indicating a diverse range of topics capturing attention.

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(0:00-7:16)

Today, we explored the key narratives surrounding the Eagles as organized team activities (OTAs) commenced this week. Connor highlights four significant stories currently capturing his attention and consults Andrew DiCecco, who is filling in for Ricky, to see if these align with his own perspectives on what is noteworthy at this moment.

(7:16-15:42)

In a recent Twitter poll, we inquired about the most pressing storyline for the Eagles, with a majority of respondents indicating that Kevin Pattullo's appointment as the new offensive coordinator is the focal point.

(15:42-27:10)

Additionally, Dallas Goedert addressed the media yesterday, and we share his remarks regarding his earlier offseason uncertainty about whether he would remain with the Eagles or seek opportunities elsewhere.

(27:10-40:22)

Finally, we examine the early NFL power rankings, where the Eagles currently hold the top position, closely followed by the Baltimore Ravens in second place.

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(0:00-13:30)

The Eagles commenced their organized team activities today, prompting a discussion on potential depth chart positions as the team prepares for the upcoming season.

(13:30-21:45)

In the NBA, the Thunder and Pacers appear to be on a collision course for the Finals, a situation made more intriguing by the fact that both franchises were built around trades involving 76ers forward Paul George.

(21:45—33:37)

Connor shares an amusing anecdote from his beach trip with Ray Dunne, who, unbeknownst to Connor, was getting sunburned without any sunscreen being offered.

(33:37-42:54)

Finally, we reveal the results of a recent Twitter poll, where a majority of voters expressed a desire to target Ronald Acuña, the standout player for the Braves.

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