Locked On Phillies - Daily Podcast On The Philadelphia Phillies

Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Cristopher Sanchez finished second in NL Cy Young voting but didn't make the All-MLB first team. How does that make sense?

Connor Thomas breaks down the controversial All-MLB team selections, arguing Sanchez deserved first-team honors over several pitchers who made the cut. The discussion covers Kyle Schwarber's second-team selection, Jhoan Duran's elite closer status, and Zack Wheeler's recognition despite injury. Key topics include Edwin Diaz opting out of his Mets contract and whether the Phillies should hope he leaves the division, the Logan O'Hoppe trade revisited in hindsight, and Brandon Marsh's ceiling as a center fielder. Thomas also addresses Schwarber's contract timeline, predicts a December signing, and identifies right-handed power as the team's biggest offseason need. The mailbag segment explores potential interest in Japanese third baseman Munetaka Murakami and what it signals about Alec Bohm's future.

Tune in for expert analysis on the Phillies' All-MLB representation and critical offseason decisions ahead.

0:00 Intro

0:30 All MLB First and Second Team Announcements

2:32 Cristopher Sanchez Snubbed from First Team

5:36 Jhoan Duran Named First Team All MLB Closer

9:09 Phillies Stars on All MLB Second Team

11:44 Edwin Diaz Free Agency and Division Impact

16:18 Should Phillies Want Diaz to Stay with Mets

26:29 What Should Phillies Ask Santa For

28:31 Kyle Schwarber's Free Agency Timeline
 

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shohei Ohtani wins unanimous MVP, but did Kyle Schwarber deserve first-place votes after his 56-homer, 132-RBI season? The Philadelphia Phillies slugger received zero first-place votes despite carrying his team to the postseason, raising serious questions about MLB's awards voting system.

Connor Thomas breaks down the controversial 2024 MVP results and argues why expanding the voter pool could eliminate individual bias. The discussion shifts to Trea Turner's surprising fifth-place MVP finish and National League batting title, examining whether Phillies fans undervalue their shortstop despite his elite regular season numbers. Key analysis includes Turner's postseason struggles, comparisons to Bobby Abreu's legacy, and why the Phillies' individual success hasn't translated to October victories.

Poll results reveal which Phillies free agents fans prioritize for re-signing, with JT Realmuto earning unexpected support for his irreplaceable value as signal caller to Zack Wheeler, Ranger Suarez, and Cristopher Sanchez.

Discover why Philadelphia's MVP candidates and Cy Young contenders couldn't win a single playoff series.

0:00 Intro

0:30 MVP voting has become a joke

3:03 Shohei Ohtani wins unanimous MVP award

5:35 Kyle Schwarber deserved first place votes

8:08 MVP voting pool needs to expand

11:13 Trea Turner finishes fifth in voting

14:17 Turner's first impression problem in Philadelphia

17:20 Postseason struggles define Turner's Phillies career

20:23 Do we undervalue Trea Turner's performance

23:26 Off the Poll: Which free agent to resign

26:01 JT Realmuto's value to pitching staff

28:34 Harrison Bader only gets 4% support

PrizePicks
Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONMLB to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.
PrizePicks — Run Your Game.
Click Link Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONMLB

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cristopher Sanchez finishes second in NL Cy Young voting, Rob Thomson places third in Manager of the Year race. Are the Philadelphia Phillies destined to always be close but never champions?

Connor Thomas breaks down the painful pattern emerging for the Phillies—second-place Cy Young finishers in three of the last five seasons, consistently competitive but falling short when it matters most. The discussion covers Sanchez's remarkable evolution from minor league swing man to Cy Young runner-up, whether fans underrate Thomson despite his regular season success, and why his postseason struggles raise questions about the team's direction. Key analysis includes free agent starter Michael King's fit and durability concerns, plus the right-handed pitcher market dynamics that signal Ranger Suarez's likely departure from Philadelphia.

Will the Phillies take one step back to move two steps forward, or are they closer to a championship than frustrated fans believe?

0:00 Intro

0:31 Cristopher Sanchez finishes second in Cy Young voting

3:35 Paul Skeens deserved unanimous Cy Young win

6:41 Phillies always good but never good enough

10:46 Rob Thomson finishes third in Manager voting

15:22 Do we underrate Rob Thomson as manager

19:58 Learning from Nick Sirianni's coaching success

23:31 Michael King as potential free agent target

27:37 Right-handed starter market hurts Ranger Suarez chances

PrizePicks
Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONMLB to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.
PrizePicks — Run Your Game.
Click Link Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONMLB

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Philadelphia Phillies fans need to pump the brakes on Harrison Bader's Instagram post. The outfielder's thank-you message sparked panic across social media, but his words say "this year" not forever—a crucial distinction during baseball's marathon offseason.

Connor Thomas breaks down why MLB free agency demands patience, explaining how the absence of a salary cap creates extended negotiations that differ dramatically from other sports. The discussion shifts to breaking news about Byron Buxton potentially waiving his no-trade clause with the Minnesota Twins, analyzing why the five-tool center fielder could solve all of Philadelphia's outfield problems in one move. Thomas also examines Don Mattingly's potential addition to Rob Thomson's coaching staff, exploring the Hall of Fame caliber player's connections to the organization through his son Preston Mattingly in the front office.

Key topics include Nick Castellanos trade scenarios, Justin Crawford's development timeline, and why the Philadelphia Phillies should pursue impact moves over long-term commitments.

Tune in for insider analysis on how the Phillies can maximize their championship window this offseason.

0:00 Intro

0:32 Harrison Bader Instagram post sparks overreaction

3:34 Don't jump to conclusions this offseason

6:38 MLB free agency takes time to develop

10:43 Byron Buxton potentially available via trade

15:19 Why Phillies should pursue Byron Buxton

20:25 Buxton's no-trade clause situation has changed

24:00 Don Mattingly linked to new coaching position

27:35 Mattingly's connections to Phillies organization

PrizePicks
Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONMLB to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.
PrizePicks — Run Your Game.
Click Link Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONMLB

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Philadelphia Phillies face critical offseason decisions at third base and in the rotation. Could Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami be the answer?

Connor Thomas breaks down three potential acquisitions for the Phillies, analyzing Murakami as a younger alternative to Alex Bregman despite injury concerns and left-handed bat limitations. The discussion examines local product Zac Gallen's fit in a rotation facing uncertainty with Zack Wheeler's thoracic outlet syndrome and Andrew Painter's development questions. ESPN's Jeff Passan recommends Bregman as the perfect move, but Thomas challenges whether the Phillies can afford to add another aging star alongside Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, and Aaron Nola while trying to get younger.

Key topics include contract projections ranging from 5-year/$110M for Murakami to 6-year deals for Bregman, the team's desperate need for right-handed power, and Dave Dombrowski's flat payroll constraints forcing difficult choices between re-signing Kyle Schwarber or pursuing a star third baseman.

Will the Phillies prioritize youth or double down on win-now veterans?

0:00 Intro

1:31 Munetaka Murakami: Japanese Third Base Solution

4:34 Murakami's Power Numbers and Injury Concerns

6:36 Contract Projections and Salary Comparisons

9:10 Age Advantage Over Alex Bregman

11:43 Zac Gallen: Local Pitcher Free Agent

14:47 Right-Handed Pitching Rotation Concerns

18:23 Gallen's Local Ties and Realistic Fit

20:56 Jeff Passan's Perfect Phillies Acquisition

25:01 Alex Bregman: Culture and Impact Bat

28:36 Age Concerns with Bregman Signing

PrizePicks
Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONMLB to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.
PrizePicks — Run Your Game.
Click Link Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONMLB

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bryce Harper faces the most pitches outside the strike zone of any player in Major League Baseball. The Philadelphia Phillies superstar needs better lineup protection, but finding the right solution for 2026 presents serious challenges.

Connor Thomas breaks down the statistical evidence proving opposing teams still fear Harper despite his recent numbers, examines potential roster moves to address the protection problem, and analyzes why the Phillies lack right-handed power. The discussion covers lineup construction options featuring Kyle Schwarber, Trea Turner, and Harrison Bader, plus explores whether Otto Kemp can fill the power void. Thomas also reveals explosive details about Harper's heated confrontation with MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred over salary cap proposals, including a shocking threat from a high-ranking MLB official that could signal an ugly labor dispute ahead. The episode concludes with Mailbag Monday questions about Bo Bichette, Pete Alonso, Alec Bohm trade scenarios, and potential third base solutions.

Discover why the 2027 baseball season could be in serious jeopardy and what moves the Phillies must make this offseason.

0:00 Intro

1:32 Bryce Harper's protection problem in lineup

3:34 Why Harper sees fewest strikes

6:11 Finding a cleanup hitter solution

10:15 Right-handed power bat desperately needed

13:18 Harper's confrontation with Commissioner Manfred

16:22 MLB deputy's shocking threat to Harper

19:26 Labor negotiations could cancel 2027 season

21:59 Mailbag Monday: Otto Kemp's future role

25:32 Bo Bichette trade possibility discussion

28:35 Trading Alec Bohm for power

PrizePicks
Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONMLB to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.
PrizePicks — Run Your Game.
Click Link Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONMLB

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Philadelphia Phillies bullpen construction takes center stage as free agency approaches. Can Tyler Rogers and Hoby Milner transform Philadelphia's relief corps for 2026?

Connor Thomas breaks down his strategic approach to building the Phillies bullpen through free agency, targeting Rogers' submarine delivery and Milner's sidearm expertise as perfect complements to Jose Alvarado and Jhoan Duran. The analysis covers Cody Bellinger's fit as a center field solution despite his likely return to the New York Yankees, Orion Kerkering's uncertain future after postseason struggles, and the potential role shift for Taiwan Walker as a swing man.

Key discussions include the typical flow of MLB free agency versus Philadelphia's ideal strategy, why Kyle Schwarber's re-signing should happen first, and the risks of waiting too long for premium targets. Thomas explains roster control situations for Matt Strahm, Tanner Banks, and other bullpen pieces while projecting contract values for potential acquisitions.

Discover which relievers could anchor Philadelphia's 2026 bullpen and why the Phillies' offseason strategy might differ from league-wide patterns.

0:00 Intro

2:02 Building the Phillies bullpen through free agency

7:08 Tyler Rogers as high leverage righty target

11:13 Adding Hoby Milner to balance the bullpen

13:51 Cody Bellinger free agent spotlight and fit

18:28 Why Bellinger likely stays with the Yankees

21:33 Understanding the flow of MLB free agency

25:36 Why big name free agents sign last

28:40 New segments: Mailbag Monday and polls

PrizePicks
Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONMLB to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.
PrizePicks — Run Your Game.
Click Link Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONMLB

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Philadelphia Phillies pick up Jose Alvarado's $9 million team option despite his PED suspension that sidelined him during the playoff run. Can the hard-throwing lefty rebuild trust with the fanbase and clubhouse?

Connor Thomas breaks down the controversial decision to bring back Alvarado, presenting both the emotional fan perspective and the front office logic behind keeping a bridge to closer Jhoan Duran. The discussion shifts to a comprehensive 2026 free agency wish list, including why Kyle Schwarber and JT Realmuto must return, the case for signing Gold Glove second baseman Brendan Rodgers as a buy-low candidate, and a complete outfield restructuring featuring Justin Crawford, Harrison Bader, and potential addition Miguel Andujar. Analysis also covers the minor league signing of Bryan De La Cruz and his realistic role as a depth piece rather than starter.

Will Alvarado's elevated expectations match his performance? Can bargain deals like Rodgers provide the right-handed balance this left-heavy lineup desperately needs?

0:00 Intro

0:31 Jose Alvarado's team option picked up

2:33 Should Phillies forgive the PED suspension?

5:38 Emotional vs logical response to Alvarado

8:40 Alvarado must earn back fan trust

10:42 Building the 2026 Phillies roster

13:51 Re-signing JT Realmuto and Kyle Schwarber

16:55 Brendan Rodgers as second base solution

20:29 Outfield plans: Crawford, Bader, and Andujar

22:01 Chris Bassitt as rotation depth option

23:33 Bryan De La Cruz minor league signing

26:38 De La Cruz's potential impact and role

29:42 Tomorrow's episode preview and wrap-up

PrizePicks
Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONMLB to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.
PrizePicks — Run Your Game.
Click Link Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONMLB

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Harrison Bader opts out of his Philadelphia Phillies contract, but will the center fielder return to Citizens Bank Park? Connor Thomas breaks down why Bader's $3 million buyout made the decision a no-brainer and analyzes his true market value beyond the red-hot .305 finish that masked a career .247 batting average.

The discussion examines why re-signing Kyle Schwarber and J.T. Realmuto should take priority over Bader, explores Japanese pitcher Tatsuya Imai as a potential $150 million target, and reveals why the Phillies' free agency timeline will likely differ from last year's slow December start. Thomas also previews the possibility of landing third baseman Munetaka Murakami and explains why the Phillies need to expand their international scouting footprint.

Key topics include defensive metrics versus offensive production, the West Coast bias in Japanese player signings, and realistic expectations for when Dave Dombrowski will make his first move. Will the Phillies prioritize 56 home runs from Schwarber over clubhouse energy from Bader?

Tune in for an honest evaluation of the Phillies' offseason priorities and a preview of the complete 2026 roster projection coming next episode.

0:00 Intro

0:30 Harrison Bader opts out of contract

2:02 Why Bader's opt-out was no-brainer

4:05 Should Phillies re-sign Harrison Bader?

7:08 Prioritizing Schwarber and Realmuto over Bader

10:12 Bader's chances of returning to Phillies

12:13 Could Phillies land first Japanese star?

14:15 Free agent focus: Tatsuya Imai profile

18:22 Imai's projected cost and contract details

21:25 Phillies need to expand international talent

23:28 When will Phillies make first move?

26:02 Expecting more aggressive early free agency

29:05 Tomorrow's show: Building the 2026 roster

PrizePicks
Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONMLB to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.
PrizePicks — Run Your Game.
Click Link Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONMLB

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Philadelphia Phillies face harsh reality after Toronto Blue Jays push Los Angeles Dodgers to seven games in the World Series. Can the front office finally admit their playoff excuses no longer hold water?

Connor Thomas breaks down why the Blue Jays' competitive performance eliminates any justification for the Phillies' early postseason exit, arguing that Dave Dombrowski and Rob Thomson must make significant roster changes rather than running back the same core. The analysis covers potential trades involving Nick Castellanos, Alec Bohm, and Bryson Stott, plus a comprehensive evaluation of free agent pitcher Dylan Cease and whether signing him would block Andrew Painter's development. Key discussion includes the Dodgers' spending strategy fueling salary cap debates, critical offseason dates from free agency opening through winter meetings, and why the Phillies' second-best record doesn't reflect their true championship potential.

Will Bryce Harper and the Phillies finally get the roster overhaul needed to compete with baseball's elite teams?

0:00 Intro

0:31 World Series Takeaways for the Phillies

3:04 Dodgers' Spending and Baseball's Future

5:37 Blue Jays Showed Up, Phillies Didn't

8:10 No More Excuses for Philadelphia

11:45 Dylan Cease Free Agent Breakdown

16:22 Evaluating Cease's Fit with Phillies

21:28 MLB Offseason Timeline and Key Dates

26:03 Important November Deadlines Approaching

28:36 Winter Meetings and Offseason Strategy

PrizePicks
Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONMLB to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.
PrizePicks — Run Your Game.
Click Link Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONMLB

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.