Jays Journal Podcast - June 20. "Writer's edition."

On tonight's show, three of our expert writers from Jays Journal are featured having insightful exchanges with host Ari Shapiro about the latest news and developments centered around the Toronto Blue Jays.

First, writer and MiLB guru Nick Raponi (2:50) talks at length about his impressions of the recent 2017 MLB draft and how the Jays minor league system fares in terms of its potential for the future and how effectively it can support the big club via a "middle of the diamond" drafting philosophy. His reflections on the alluring promise of darkhorse prospect Kevin Smith in particular will leave you with a profoundly better appreciation for the future, as will his progressive points of view on starting pitching in general.

Next, writer and contributor Kirsten McKernan (13:21) takes a closer look at Justin Smoak and how his season has redefined the way management looks at the batting lineup and why a mea culpa might be in order for the legions of doubters and naysayers who believed he was nothing more than a one-dimensional utility player. She also talks extensively about his all-star game chances and why his work during the off-season has paid off handsomely this season. 

Finally, writer and MiLB specialist Craig Borden (20:09) opens up about his true feelings on Bo Bichette and Vlad Guerrero Jr., along with a closer examination of other hidden gems at the AA and AAA levels that will surprise many fans unaware of the "untouchable" talent on the horizon. His comparison of how different regimes have tackled the development curve of players like Rowdy Tellez will fascinate the discerning listener who yearns for a better understanding of the future.

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Joined by Sportsnet's baseball editor and prolific writer Ben Nicholson-Smith, host Ari Shapiro invites you to take a closer look at a number of hot button issues surrounding the Toronto Blue Jays, including: why the team is struggling mightily to reach the .500 mark, which player has considerably impressed or profoundly disappointed the fanbase, how to address the monumental loss of Devon Travis for the year, if the current regime has distinguished itself from the previous era, why Anthony Alford deserves a chance at stardom, and introspective thoughts on the current pitching culture and the staggering rise of superstar injuries across both leagues.

Be sure to check out Ben's podcast: http://www.sportsnet.ca/590/at-the-letters/.

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Following an inspirational Father's Day 7-3 victory for the Toronto Blue Jays over the Chicago White Sox, we are joined by site expert Chris Henderson and sportscaster Matt Graves of Jays Journal to discuss what the future has in store for the team.

Have a listen at our round table as host and moderator Ari Shapiro offers a number of discussion points including: why this team has so much difficulty scoring runs, what the return of Sanchez and the resurgence of Happ mean for Joe Biagini, lingering Morales versus Edwin comparisons, the 2017 baseball draft compared to previous years, has the current front office regime distinguished themselves from the Anthopoulos era, and will this team find success against a ruthless schedule in the weeks ahead.

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Jays Journal Podcast - June 17. "Radio edition."

On tonight's show, we take a closer look at some of the latest articles from the Jays Journal team of writers and contributors, including current front page stories from Chris Henderson, Brian Greenzang, Kirsten McKernan, Craig Borden, and Clayton Richer.

Later, host Ari Shapiro is joined by site expert and eternal master of baseball composure, Chris Henderson, as the two attempt to disseminate the smoldering remains of an 11-4 loss to Melky Cabrera and the Chicago White Sox on Friday night. In their quest to reach the vaunted .500 mark, the Blue Jays were their own worst enemy and remain painfully short of an elusive goal.

Phone lines were opened for tonight's show with several callers - Dan, Kamal, and Paul - featured prominently discussing last night's outcome, along with opinions on Joe Biagini's future in the rotation, the merits of American League versus National League pitching, Ryan Tepera's trade value, and how Alex Anthopoulos changed the destiny of this franchise. This episode has a little bit of everything for everyone.



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Jays Journal Podcast - June 14. "Writer's edition."

On tonight's show, three brilliant writers from Jays Journal are featured in candid exchanges with host Ari Shapiro about the latest news and developments associated with the team.

First, site expert Chris Henderson takes a closer look at why the Blue Jays have been a feast or famine team for most of the 2017 regular season, and how a positively daunting upcoming schedule might be the breaking point for any legitimate post-season aspirations.

Next, Matt Graves joins the show to offer his thoughts on the recent struggles of Marco Estrada, how the performances of Ryan Tepera and Danny Barnes have completely changed the bullpen dynamic, and his initial thoughts on the 2017 draft. 

Finally, Craig Borden rounds out the podcast with a detailed look at Logan Warmoth, Nate Pearson, and why fans should take solace with the current front office, their efforts in re-stocking the minor league cupboards with effective scouting and wise personnel decisions.

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Todd Stottlemyre, former Blue Jays right-handed starter and three-time World Series champion, sits down with host Ari Shapiro and opens up about his professional career, life and family after baseball, and his thoughts on the current group of Toronto Blue Jays.

In this exclusive interview, Mr. Stottlemyre is raw, candid, and indelible with his thoughts on the current state of sportsmanship in the game, how injuries are perceived by a different generation of players, and how he truly feels about Toronto's chances for the post-season given their challenging start to the 2017 campaign.

At just over an hour of compelling banter and brass tacks repartee, Jays Journal is proud to bring you an introspective look at a former player whose passion and love of the game remains as inspirational as it is unforgettable.

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