Locked On Blue Jays

The summer rolls along and so does the intrepid host of this daily Blue Jays podcast!Ryan Andrews dives into the main takeaway of the Blue Jays' tough 1-0 loss to the Red Sox the previous night, and that is the stellar start from Aaron Sanchez. The host analyzes the key's to Sanchez's success and how he can continue to recover his value by using his curveball as he did against Boston. It leads to an over-arching goal for the Blue Jays over the final 2 1/2 weeks.The second segment is dedicated to some off-field stories of the past week. Andrews discusses why the Red Sox and Yankees need to shut up and stop complaining about the Josh Donaldson trade, before diving into the rumor that Mark Shapiro and Ben Cherington could be heading to the Mets. Fans of all three of these teams will not be pleased.Andrews closes with a preview of the series finale against Boston, and what a successful start would look like for Sam Gaviglio. The Nova Scotian details what the swingman needs to do for the Blue Jays, while expressin

There's so many Ryans on today's episode! What are we going to do with all these Ryans?First of all, host Ryan Andrews will start with high praise for Ryan Borucki in the rookie's 6 1/3 inning outing against the Red Sox. Andrews notes how effectively Borucki was using his slider and dealing with a difficult Boston lineup.However, in the second segment, Andrews has to discuss another blown save by Ryan Tepera. With the Texan's usage rate up, the Nova Scotian Ryan discusses how Tepera's value seems worse because of the high-profile nature of his blowups, and discusses a point Cliff Floyd made about the mentality on the mound affecting Tepera's performance. Andrews concludes with an assessment of where Tepera goes from here, against the likes of Danny Barnes and Justin Shafer.The final third is a mixed bag. Andrews shakes their head at the route Kevin Pillar took in creating Steve Pearce's game-changing triple last night and what that error did to multiple Blue Jays on the field. However, Andrews closes with a h

After a medical issue forced the shared observance of an off-day, host Ryan Andrews is back for another week of Blue Jays talk as the season winds towards its conclusion!Andrews leads a dissertation on the lessons learned from the Cleveland series, starting with everyone's favorite son Rowdy Tellez. Andrews examines where Rowdy's performance has put him on the Blue Jays map moving forward and what the club can do with him in 2019 given Justin Smoak and Kendrys Morales occupy his position.In the second segment, Andrews turns to the pitching and the starts that the Blue Jays delivered over the weekend. Marco Estrada was solid, but the Nova Scotian believes the Magician will need to put a couple more good shows together if he wants to reappear on the 2019 roster, then wonders if Thomas Pannone hasn't edged ahead of Sean Reid-Foley in the battle for a 2019 rotation slot.The final third is dedicated to the bullpen and a new strategy that the Blue Jays seem to be adapting from Ross Atkins and Mark Shapiro's Clevela

 In honor of Rowdy Tellez and his four doubles in two MLB games, the podcast is hitting a double as well, with two Fan Friday installments!In this episode, host Ryan Andrews looks forward with the help of Blue Jays fans, predicting the 2019 rotation. Many fans are expressing doubts that Marcus Stroman will be a long-term part of the solution there, and Andrews does their best to explain the many ways Stroman's career can go. However, Ryan Borucki, Aaron Sanchez and Sean Reid-Foley get votes of confidence.The second and third segments deal with the lineup and @JAYSin2020's projection of what it could look like. A lot of young blood is involved but is it too much to expect all the rookies to take off immediately for the Blue Jays? Fans way in on where Devon Travis and Teoscar Hernandez fit in, as well as what to do with Cavan Biggio. Special thanks to @JAYSin2020, @KarenSoutar1, @chronja85, @GayBaseballFan, @DSteciuk, @brightskies99, @Orchid2424, @BigCal1964, @LeafsFan1993, @swillc, @michellehacon, @shawn_w_smi

In honor of Rowdy Tellez and his four doubles in two MLB games, the podcast is hitting a double as well, with two Fan Friday installments!Leading off the first edition, host Ryan Andrews talks about Rowdy Tellez's first MLB start and all the feels it activated in Blue Jays fans watching him hug his father. Andrews details how Tellez has re-inserted himself into the conversation for consideration for extended MLB action following a rough 2017 campaign. Praise also goes to Reese McGuire and Lourdes Gurriel Jr., but not so much to the pitching staff spearheaded by Sam Gaviglio and Mark Leiter Jr.In the second and third segments, Andrews compiles a ranking for the teams that Blue Jays fans will be cheering for in the 2018 postseason. Various reasons are brought up for supporting teams, from watching players like Mookie Betts, Francisco Lindor and Jose Ramirez, to Toronto links like Alex Anthopoulos, to not supporting another team at all, the fans chime in from across the land to root for everyone but the Yankees.

It's a good thing the Blue Jays won last night, as it sustains Ryan Andrews before they get to the topics at hand in today's episode!Andrews highlights all the good things the Blue Jays did in last night's 10-3 win over Tampa Bay. From a 12-batter first inning that featured Billy McKinney's on-base strikeout, Devon Travis' pair of hits and Aledmys Diaz and his big blast, to a good Aaron Sanchez performance, to Rowdy Tellez and his emotional MLB debut, Andrews gets as many happy feelings in the podcast as they can.The second segment answers a report that John Gibbons is 99.9% gone as manager of the Blue Jays. Andrews accepted this inevitability, but they discuss just how much credit Gibbons deserved for the 2015-16 runs that the team made and where he ranks in the pantheon. The Nova Scotia also discusses Eric Wedge's candidacy for the job and questions how well the former Cleveland and Seattle manager fits in modern baseball. (There is a Scott Elarton reference!)The final segment discusses the beginning of a f

Maybe it's an apt comparison, maybe it's because they were hungry, but Ryan Andrews is thinking of donuts on today's episode!Andrews opens with a lament of another deplorable Blue Jays effort on offense, and the inability to hit this Rays cluster of pitchers. The host examines the appalling production that the team has gotten from the middle of the lineup, particularly the #5 and #6 slots. Blame is placed on Kevin Pillar, Russell Martin and Teoscar Hernandez.The train of thought continues in the second segment, as Andrews offers an opinion on how the Blue Jays can address this in free agency, and acquire an asset that could be useful in either 2019 situation. The Nova Scotian singles out Arizona's A.J. Pollock as a potential one-year signing that could net a healthy return if Toronto looks to trade at next year's deadline.In the final segment, Andrews turns to tonight's series finale with Tampa Bay, and specifically Aaron Sanchez. The host is not sure if Sanchez wants to use his effective pitches, and they im

Back from a Labor Day siesta, Ryan Andrews is put to work on today's Locked on Blue Jays episode!The host begins with a dissection of Marcus Stroman's blister issues and the reasons the nominal ace of the Blue Jays' staff was limited to 1 2/3 innings in his return from the DL. Andrews highlights the problems that Stroman has had in rushing himself back to action. When combined with Aaron Sanchez and his finger issues, the Nova Scotian paints a picture of a pair of starters who need to think about the future as opposed to just getting back on the mound.The second segment features another pair of Blue Jays starters trying to put themselves in the 2019 rotation. Andrews dismays at what has become of Marco Estrada and wonders what the change-up specialist has left in his tank going forward. Meanwhile, Sean Reid-Foley was dazzling in his third MLB start, and Andrews believes that this is closer to the real pitcher the Blue Jays have as opposed to his first two starts against Kansas City and New York.In the final s

Some days there are not many things to talk about in Blue Jays land. This is not one of those days.In a rare weekend appearance due to yesterday's absence, host Ryan Andrews discusses the Josh Donaldson trade and the implication of what it means for all parties involved. Andrews discusses reports that the split of the Bringer of Rain and the Blue Jays was a long time coming, and a report from the Toronto Sun's Rob Longley increases the belief that Donaldson did more than his part to hasten this split.The second segment sees Andrews addressing the Blue Jays front office and the missteps it has made, ranking it alongside the Kendrys Morales contract and the constant masking and deception used to protect their assets. The Nova Scotian also addresses the fan base that is looking to abandon the club, noting that there have been other instances that would have been worth leaving the club for. In addition, Andrews admits Donaldson was going to be as much as part of the future as Curtis Granderson, and briefly discus

They are still feeling a bit woozy from yesterday's dental emergency, but Ryan Andrews will grit through the pain to discuss the sorrow of watching the Blue Jays get swept by the Orioles!Andrews begins with some tepid praise for the offensive efforts of Randal Grichuk and Devin Travis but then proceeds into exasperated condemnation of the mental errors plaguing the Blue Jays on the field and how it's something the team needs to work on in the off-season, especially with younger players like Lourdes Gurriel Jr.The second segment looks at the Blue Jays pitching and again, Andrews questions the mental makeup of the pitchers on the roster, particularly Ryan Borucki, Danny Barnes and Ken Giles. However, Tim Mayza earns praise for the second day in a row! Keep going, Tim!The third segment is dedicated to the memory of Jaime Garcia's Blue Jays tenure and where the Mexican lefty will slot in the history of Ross Atkins and Mark Shapiro's free-agent signings. Spoiler, it's not great. Andrews muses on what his departure

Not even the cold grip of the dentist's chair can keep host Ryan Andrews away from the first of the second century off Locked on Blue Jays podcasts!The host begins with an excoriation of the Blue Jays pitching staff over the previous two days. Sam Gaviglio, Danny Barnes, Thomas Pannone, Joe Biagini, Murphy Smith, no one escapes the Nova Scotia's novocaine-fueled wrath. However, Andrews does say something nice about Tim Mayza.In the second segment, Andrews turns to the Blue Jays hitting, addressing the end of Kendrys Morales' home-run streak, and necessary rest day. Andrews has good things to say about the performance of Randal Grichuk and a potential role for him in 2019, as well as Billy McKinney. However, Aledmys Diaz does not earn such high praises.In the final third, Josh Donaldson's rehab stint begins and Andrews is still baffled why the Blue Jays are willing part with the former MVP for nothing, as opposed to even getting the qualifying offer draft pick. Troy Tulowitzki also reasserted himself that he w

A special milestone episode for everyone here on the Locked On Blue Jays podcast as former Digital Marketing Manager of the the Blue Jays April Whitzman sits down for a feature-length interview with host Ryan Andrews!Whitzman begins detailing how she got involved with baseball from a young age growing up in New Brunswick and her rise through the internet ranks to the @BlueJays label and how she handled such Twitter responsibility. Andrews also apologizes for all the Potato World jokes they have made over the years, but they still get a Russ Adams joke off.In the second segment, the two discuss the recent Women at Bat event held by She's 4 Sports and Whitzman details how her story became one of perseverance and grinding through mascot costumes and the MLB Fan Cave process to the point where she could represent and interact with the Blue Jays fans. The East Coasters also discuss how baseball can improve its issues with diversity and recent social media issues that have arisen with younger players Whitzman highl

So sick with the Blue Jays hot takes that they actually fell ill for a little, Ryan Andrews is back to dish out a lot of high praise!Andrews starts with compliments on Kendrys Morales and his recent homer binge, recalling the dark times in May when it looked like the DH would earn the Jaime Garcia treatment and be sent out of town. Morales' recent run has acted as a rejuvenation for the Blue Jays and Andrews is happy to see someone experience success in the offense.In segment two, Andrews heaps more praise on Billy McKinney for what the prize of the J.A. Happ deal has been able to accomplish with the Blue Jays. The host asserts that McKinney has vaulted past Teoscar Hernandez, and reiterates that Teoscar should join the Bisons for the final week of their season.The third segment sees more praise for Blue Jays reliever Justin Shafer following a three-inning outing on Sunday. Andrews sees the Florida native's ability to use three pitches that start similarly but tail differently as key to his success and the No

It's a sweep-celebrating episode of the podcast today! But does host Ryan Andrews have an interesting plan for the Blue Jays to discuss?In the first segment, Andrews praises the efforts of young Thomas Pannone and his dazzling performance against Baltimore. The host is especially pleased with Pannone's seventh-inning efforts when things could have easily unraveled for the Blue Jays. Andrews says that is the real sign that Pannone can be a key piece for this club.In the middle segment, Andrews turns to Joe Biagini and another strong outing from the erstwhile starter/reliever. The Nova Scotian cites a great interview done by Jenn Smith for The Sporting News that offers some insights into how Biagini is attacking the rest of the season and trying to establish his rhythm. Andrews approves.In the finale, Andrews discusses a plan for Teoscar Hernandez and that plan is demotion. With Billy McKinney playing well and Lourdes Gurriel set to return from the DL, Andrews says that Hernandez should be sent on the Devon Tra

Watching from the past to predict the future, it's time for another Locked On Blue Jays episode!Host Ryan Andrews takes great pleasure in discussing the Blue Jays' 8-2 win over Baltimore, starting with a desperately-needed quality start from Sam Gaviglio. Andrews details how Sammy G was able to have success, and compliments the performances of Jake Petricka and Justin Shafer in the pen, as they look to earn 2019 jobs.The second segment is dedicated to the growing legend of Billy "Sniper" McKinney. Andrews happily details how poised the young outfielder looked at the plate and what his chances of starting the 2019 season in left field are. Kendrys Morales also gets a nod.Finally, Andrews previews a game that is already in progress, because logic. The Nova Scotian details what Thomas Pannone needs to do to succeed in the Wednesday matinee, and hopes for more success for McKinney and Danny Jansen.Follow the podcast on Twitter @LockedOnJays and follow the host @NeoAC18!Subscribe on Google Play and iTunes!This epi

Has last night's win jolted the host of Locked on Blue Jays? They are coming up with some strange thoughts today!Ryan Andrews begins with the offensive performance of Kendrys Morales in last night's 5-3 victory over Baltimore and with the news that Justin Smoak has cleared revocable waivers, Andrews wonders if it would be best to keep Morales in place at first base for the duration of his contract. Kevin Pillar also gets special mention and earns a thumbs up from the host.In the second segment, Andrews discusses Jaime Garcia's performance as a reliever and whether or not the Blue Jays would be best served bringing Garcia back as part of a recent trend of finding veteran arms for the pen at knock-down costs! Madness!The third segment is devoted to tonight's contest. Andrews highlights what Sam Gaviglio needs to do to have another successful start against the Orioles, and details a potential Blue Jays' starting lineup. Luke Maile and Billy McKinney will be pleased to hear the Nova Scotian's ideas.Follow the pod

Monday has rolled back around and not a moment too soon for Blue Jays fans!Ryan Andrews discusses the fallout from a brutal three-game series against the Yankees. Marcus Stroman couldn't deal with his blistered finger any longer and the host discusses how this is emblematic of the Blue Jays issues this season and why it is imperative the club figure out how to deal with these finger issues while the club has time to do so, especially with Aaron Sanchez now on the 60-day DL.In segment two, Andrews discusses the performances of Sean Reid-Foley and Ryan Borucki in Yankee Stadium. The Nova Scotian is kinder on Reid-Foley in his second start, but lays into Borucki and his shook start. The lefty looked like he let the situation get the best of him and Andrews has tips for Danny Jansen on how to deal with Borucki's jitters.In the final segment, Andrews discusses newly promoted Blue Jays reliever Justin Shafer and what the University of Florida product brings to the club. The host highlights Shafer's ability to limit

It's another Fan Friday edition of the podcast, one that Blue Jays fans can be assured will not be delayed by rain!Host Ryan Andrews begins with a look at the continued struggles of Sam Gaviglio and what his role for the Blue Jays will be going forward. Andrews is pretty blunt about where Gaviglio fits on a good team.In segment two, the host addresses some of the mental errors that having been plaguing the Blue Jays, from Aledmys Diaz's baserunning error, to Teoscar Hernandez nutmegging himself on a ground ball. Andrews also explains what nutmegging means.The Nova Scotian closes with reaction to the six-game suspension that Jose Ureña received from MLB for drilling Ronald Acuña Jr. and how it is completely fails to address the main issue with the move. The fans have similar feelings.Special thanks to @nmonaco1981, @Penmighty1, @CasablancaRic, @JAYSin2020, @Chronja85, and @JayTup for their contributions!Follow the podcast on Twitter @LockedOnJays and follow the host @NeoAC18!Subscribe on Google Play and iTunes

The Blue Jays talk comes hot, but the Jose Urena takes may be even hotter on today's episode!Host Ryan Andrews tears into the young Miami starter for his cowardly act in the game against Atlanta where he plunked Ronald Acuna and forced him from the game. Andrews makes it very clear that this is caveman baseball culture taken to the extreme and it has no place in the game, drawing the comparison to if a Baltimore pitcher plunked Vladimir Guerrero Jr. The Nova Scotia makes their case for a harsh punishment.In segment two, Andrews discusses Marco Estrada's pitching performance against the Royals and how it may impact his ability to pitch for a contender in September.In the final segment, the host praises Curtis Granderson for sparing another lackluster Blue Jays performance at the plate, and rips into the team for another bad send from third base and more issues with the bases loaded.Follow the podcast on Twitter @LockedOnJays and follow the host @NeoAC18!Subscribe on Google Play and iTunes!This episode is spons

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, its another edition of the podcast!Host Ryan Andrews opens with praise for Kevin Pillar and his heroic efforts to save the Blue Jays from another disheartening defeat. However, the troubles with the Blue Jays' offense are still out in the open for all to see, and the host derides their inability to convert bases-loaded opportunities.Next, Andrews discusses Danny Jansen's mixed night and Ryan Borucki's struggles on the mound, offering advice for what the young pitcher needs to do to avoid becoming unraveled as he did against Kansas City.Finally, the Nova Scotian offers more compliments, this time to Ken Giles and the other members of the Blue Jays bullpen for performing admirably in their tasks. Special thoughts go to Joe Biagini for an crucial bridge outing.Follow the podcast on Twitter @LockedOnJays and follow the host @NeoAC18!Subscribe on Google Play and iTunes!This episode is sponsored by ZipRecruiter and Locked on NFL. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoice