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The FAN Pregame

Sportsnetwww.sportsnet.ca
Get ready for tonight's games with Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert as they discuss the stories that matter most to sports fans. Airing live on Sportsnet 590 The FAN weekdays from 6pm-7pm ET.
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Episodes

Hour 4: What Matt Chapman Brings to the Jays + Next Moves

Ben Nicholson-Smith joins the show to comment on the Jays' reported acquisition of Matt Chapman, his elite defensive prowess at third base, the market for Kyle Schwarber, the organization's desire to add a left-handed bat, which prospects might be heading back to the Athletics in the Chapman trade, and the Jays likely being out of the Freddie Freeman sweepstakes (0:54). Afterwards, Ben Ennis stops by to talk about the defensive impact that Chapman will bring to the Jays, what the addition means ...

Mar 16, 202249 min

Hour 3: Breaking Down the Matt Chapman Trade w/ Carlos Baerga, Jon Morosi & Jim Bowden

Carlos Baerga phones in to chat about his report that the Blue Jays have traded for Oakland Athletics third baseman Matt Chapman, what the return may be, and other players the Jays might be pursuing (1:08). Next, Jon Morosi stops by to give his thoughts on the deal, what Chapman brings to the team, the possible return, how these talk would've started, and where the team is at in its pursuit of Kyle Schwarber (16:40). Then the morning crew assembles a quick Wake and Rake parlay (34:14). To finish...

Mar 16, 202250 min

Hour 2: A Blue Jays Trade?!

Stephen Brunt joins the show to discuss the weirdness surrounding this year's Leafs team, the urgency within the Blue Jays' front office, ownership's commitment to investing in this team, Vlad and Bo holding leverage in their contract situation, and if Toronto would consider dipping into their prospect capital to make a big move (1:32). Later, the morning team discusses Carlos Baerga's report that the Blue Jays are close to acquiring Matt Chapman from the Oakland Athletics (32:38). The views and...

Mar 16, 202250 min

Hour 1: First Impressions of Erik Källgren + Blue Jays Waiting Game

JD, Blake and Justin discuss Erik Källgren notching a shutout, in his first NHL start, contrasting his style to that of Petr Mrazek's, Sheldon Keefe's post-game comments about his team's goaltending issues this season, the possibility of adding a top-six forward to complement John Tavares ahead of Monday's deadline, and the latest buzz surrounding the Jays' pursuit of Freddie Freeman and Kyle Schwarber (1:08). Later, the team delivers a mini A-List (40:56). The views and opinions expressed in th...

Mar 16, 202249 min

Hour 4: Rick Tocchet on the Leafs' Volatile Goaltending + Caleb Joseph

Former Blue Jays catcher Caleb Joseph phones in to chat about former teammate Yusei Kikuchi, the pitcher's strengths, who Kikuchi reminds him of, the intricacies of catching, and what makes Danny Jansen special (2:00). Afterwards, Rick Tocchet stops by to discuss Auston Matthews' suspension, Petr Mrazek's style of play, the state of the Leafs' goaltending, the importance of playing a complete game, and Sheldon Keefe's defensive deployment (24:25). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast...

Mar 15, 202248 min

Hour 3: Freddie Freeman Buzz w/ Jeff Blair + Wake and Rake

Jeff Blair joins the show to discuss the Jays' desire to add an impact left-handed bat, the buzz surrounding Freddie Freeman and Kyle Schwarber, the prospect of Vlad Jr. moving back to third base, and Jose Ramirez's trade value (0:32). Afterwards, the morning drew tees up the betting lines for tonight's Leafs-Stars game, and assembles their daily Wake and Rake parlay (30:05). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the pos...

Mar 15, 202247 min

Hour 2: Leafs Trade Deadline Agenda w/ Jeff Marek

Jeff Marek stops by to discuss the legacy of Scott Hall, Matthews' suspension, how the Leafs will cope with his absence over the next two games, Toronto's biggest priorities ahead of next Monday's trade deadline, and the ramifications of the Josh Manson deal on the trade market (0:30). Later, the morning crew heads to the text line to respond to comments and questions from listeners (25:39). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily...

Mar 15, 202248 min

Hour 1: Blue Jays Rumour Mill + Matthews' Suspension

JD, Blake and Justin discuss Auston Matthews receiving a two-game suspension for his cross-check on Rasmus Dahlin, Colorado's acquisition cost for Josh Manson, the Blue Jays' reported pursuit of Freddie Freeman and Kyle Schwarber, how both players would fit in the Jays' lineup, and Scottie Barnes delivering another standout performance in a win over the Lakers (2:18). Later, the group chats about the Jaguars' free agency spending spree (43:23). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast ar...

Mar 15, 202252 min

Hour 4: Dubas' Deadline Pressures + the Jays' Plan for Pearson w/ Arden Zwelling

The morning team chats about Petr Mrazek's poor play with the Maple Leafs, how the front office might manage his contract situation beyond this season, the prospect of adding another blue liner and how it might impact the team's outlook, and the pressure on Kyle Dubas to make a move of consequence before next Monday's trade deadline (0:24). To wrap, Arden Zwelling discusses the Blue Jays adding Yusei Kikuchi, why the organization is enamored with his pitching arsenal, Nate Pearson's mechanical a...

Mar 14, 202248 min

Hour 3: What is Scottie Barnes' Ceiling? + Wake and Rake

Michael Grange phones in to chat about the Raptors' back-to-back wins against Phoenix and Denver over the weekend, the team's tendency to play up against good competition, the Lakers' perils this season, Scottie Barnes' continued progression, and his chances of winning Rookie of the Year (0:18). Later, the morning crew tees up the betting lines for Raptors-Lakers, and assembles the daily Wake and Rake parlay (28:00). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and gue...

Mar 14, 202247 min

Hour 2: Blue Jays Spring Training Storylines w/ Ben Ennis

Ben Ennis joins the show to chat about MLB's new CBA, the top Jays storylines heading into spring training, the signing of Yusei Kikuchi, the team's plans for Nate Pearson, the prospect of pursuing Kyle Schwarber, and other holes the front office might look to address before Opening Day (4:13). Afterwards, they chat about expectations for Gabriel Moreno and the release of Drive to Survive season four (36:16). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and ...

Mar 14, 202253 min

Hour 1: Toronto Maple Leafs ... Weirdest Team Ever!

JD, Blake and Justin discuss the Leafs' 5-2 loss to the Sabres in the Heritage Classic, Petr Mrazek's sustained struggles this season, if the team needs to pursue a goalie via trade, and the Blue Jays' signing of Yusei Kikuchi (1:05). Afterwards, the team weighs in on Tom Brady's decision to unretire and return to the Buccaneers (37:16). 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 a...

Mar 14, 202251 min

Hour 4: Reopening the Jays' Window w/ Dan Shulman + James Mirtle on the Leafs' Deadline Plans

A very happy Dan Shulman joins the morning team as the Blue Jays begin to report to Spring Training down in Dunedin. They discuss the idea of prospect capital, kick around a few mock trades, and securing pieces to bolster the bullpen (3:12). Plus, Dan gives a few nuggets for the upcoming March Madness tournament, including a Canadian to watch in Arizona (22:15). Afterwards, The Athletic's James Mirtle takes a look at the coming trade deadline, what Petr Mrazek's trade value is right now, and if ...

Mar 11, 202247 min

Hour 3: Potential Blue Jays Targets to Watch + Wake and Rake

Ben Nicholson-Smith stops by to chat about the new CBA, how much the Blue Jays should be looking into Kris Bryant, how the vaccination status of players will play into the free agent market (especially when it comes to signing in Toronto), and how much the Jays value prospects like Gabriel Moreno and Orelvis Martinez (0:23). Plus, Coolbet's Kris Abbott stops by for the Friday edition of the Wake and Rake parlay (25:01)! The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and ...

Mar 11, 202250 min

Hour 2: MLB Free Agency Madness and Blue Jays' Priorities w/ Jon Morosi

JD, Blake and Justin bring on MLB Insider Jon Morosi to take a look around the free agency market, including agents discussing new deals for clients such as Carlos Correa and Freddie Freeman and what they're looking for (0:45). Jon also discusses the remaining priorities for the Blue Jays, including the potential for more starting pitching, and the availability of Jose Ramirez (7:32). To finish the hour, the morning team has a discussion on the Auston Matthews no-call in overtime against the Coy...

Mar 11, 202250 min

Hour 1: The Opportunity Cost of Upgrading the Leafs' Goaltending

JD, Blake and Justin break down the Leafs' loss to the Coyotes, which falls on the shoulders of the goaltending with Jack Campbell out for two weeks with a rib injury. They discuss the play of Petr Mrazek, the need to acquire a new goaltender to pair with Campbell once he returns, and the potential for the Leafs to trade another first round pick to acquire an upgrade in net (0:38). They also kick around several names that might be available on the trade market (19:58). Later, the guys break down...

Mar 11, 202249 min

Hour 4: Why the International MLB Draft Has Become a Sticking Point

Bomani Jones stops by to discuss his new sports talk show 'Game Theory' on HBO, and why such a late-night talk show format hasn't really been done before, before touching on James Harden vs. Kevin Durant, and if the fan - athlete relationship has changed for the better or worse (3:17). Afterwards, MLB Network's Jim Duquette stops by to give a former GM's perspective on where the MLB labour negotiations are at, and why the International Draft has become a contentious part of the discussions (29:4...

Mar 10, 202247 min

Hour 3: Leafs Vibe Check w/ Colby Armstrong + Wake and Rake

Colby Armstrong joins the show to to chat about his latest trip around the world for Sportsnet hot off a visit to Vegas. He discusses Auston Matthews' place as the best player in hockey, and also admits to losing to Cabbie in Topgolf (2:23). Afterwards, the morning crew discusses cringeworthy encounters they've had with athletes, DeMar DeRozan coming through for the Bulls (once again), and get to Wake and Rake picks (29:56). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts...

Mar 10, 202250 min

Hour 2: Inside the Leafs' Defensive Analytics w/ Ian Tulloch

JD, Blake and Justin bring on Ian Tulloch to discuss the role of a few Leafs defencemen, including the recent play of Timothy Liljegren, how prominent his minutes should be going forward, the various pairings for Liljegren, the play of Morgan Rielly since signing his new contract, how Ilya Lybushkin has looked since arriving from Arizona, and how a lot of the discussions surrounding the defence hinges on the health of Jake Muzzin (0:56). Afterwards, the morning team chats about Carson Wentz gett...

Mar 10, 202247 min

Hour 1: Where Would Fred VanVleet Go In a 2016 Redraft?

JD, Blake and Justin discuss the Raptors getting back to their winning ways, snapping a three-game losing streak by beating the Spurs in San Antonio, denying Gregg Popovich from becoming the NBA's all-time leader in coaching wins in the process. They debate whether or not either the team would do a Pascal Siakam - Dejounte Murray trade right now, where in the 2016 NBA Draft Fred VanVleet would go in a redraft, and if the Thaddeus Young trade was a win or not for the team (0:28). Afterwards, the ...

Mar 10, 202254 min

Hour 4: Matthews Magic & Leafs' Deadline Pressure w/ Nick Kypreos + Mike Florio

Nick Kypreos joins the show to discuss the current roster construction of the Leafs, whether or not Kyle Dubas has to reward one of the best seasons in franchise history by making a trade for a difference maker to shore up roster holes, and if what the Leafs are doing offensively is sustainable in the playoffs (1:10). Afterwards, Mike Florio stops by to discuss the big Seattle-Denver trade in the NFL, where the roots for a Russell Wilson trade may have begun, revisiting 'Let Russ Cook', and whet...

Mar 09, 202250 min

Hour 3: Parsing the Russell Wilson Trade w/ Ross Tucker + Wake and Rake

JD, Blake and Justin chat with Ross Tucker on the turbulent day around the NFL, Russell Wilson's potential longevity on a rejuvenated Denver squad, if the price tag is worth it, and if the Broncos were the only destination Wilson really wanted to go to (0:27). They also discuss Falcons receiver Calvin Ridley getting suspended for gambling by the NFL (18:45). To wrap, the morning crew previews Raptors - Spurs from a betting perspective, and get into the Wake and Rake (33:47)! The views and opinio...

Mar 09, 202249 min

Hour 2: Matthews vs. Shesterkin + Late Night Negotiations

JD, Blake and Justin bring on Sportsnet's Jeff Marek to debate the merits of Auston Matthews vs. Igor Shesterkin in the Hart Trophy race, and how to differentiate between a skater and a goaltender in what they do when they're on the ice (0:48). Afterwards, they discuss the MLB and Players' Association keeping everyone up until the wee hours of the morning, as the International Draft and Competitive Balance Tax continue to be hang-ups (27:00). Plus, fresh off a Jackie Moon appearance in last nigh...

Mar 09, 202249 min

Hour 1: Running the Gamut of Russell Wilson Emotions

JD, Blake and Justin get into all the feelings after Seahawks QB Russell Wilson is traded in a blockbuster deal to the Denver Broncos for a bevy of draft picks and players (0:27). JD talks about watching Wilson play for his favourite franchise for years, and going through the five stages of grief after seeing the trade come through (8:46). Plus, the Leafs win a high-scoring affair vs. the Kraken, courtesy of Auston Matthews being his incredibly dominant self (19:58), and another edition of the A...

Mar 09, 202250 min

Hour 4: Leafs Blue Line Trade Options w/ Mike Futa

Mike Futa phones in to discuss Mark Giordano's potential as a trade target for the Leafs, Josh Manson's possible fit on Toronto's blue line, his evaluation of Nick Robertson, and Jack Campbell's recent struggles after a hot start to the year (0:25). To wrap up, JD, Blake and Justin take listener texts on more potential trades for the Leafs, and if any trade out there will raise the team's ceiling (24:25). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do n...

Mar 08, 202247 min

Hour 3: Breaking Down the Hart Trophy Race w/ Jackie Redmond + Wake and Rake

Jackie Redmond stops by to debate the Hart Trophy race that has seemingly been narrowed to Auston Matthews vs. Igor Shesterkin, and what a goaltender has to do in order to be considered as 'valuable' as a skater like Matthews (0:42). They also discuss the inherent bias that exists when discussing two MVP candidates in major markets like Toronto and New York (12:12). Afterwards, the morning team assembles their daily Wake and Rake parlay (30:19). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast a...

Mar 08, 202247 min

Hour 2: Lockout Update + the Good and Bad of MLB's Proposed Rule Changes

The morning crew gets into the recent proposed rule changes in baseball, including larger bases and banning the shift, and bring on Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith to discuss and get an update on the MLB lockout (0:13). They break down what will happen on-field without shifts, and which Blue Jays might be affected statistically by the rule change. Afterwards, the guys head to the text line and answer your questions about the Knicks, gambling in sports, and Nick Robertson (27:13). The views and o...

Mar 08, 202247 min

Hour 1: Will Matthews Hit 60 Goals?

JD, Blake and Justin break down another high-scoring affair by the Leafs, as Auston Matthews hits 40 goals on the season and continues to solidify his case for the Hart Trophy (with Igor Shesterkin hot on his heels) (0:53). They get into the good (Mitch Marner) and the bad (John Tavares taking two penalties), and once again have a discussion on Leafs goaltending. Plus, an A-List discussion on Falcons wide receiver Calvin Ridley being suspended for a year by the NFL for gambling on games (34:48)....

Mar 08, 202252 min

Hour 4: Is Auston Matthews the Best Leaf Ever? w/ Justin Bourne

Justin Bourne stops by and comments on the recent stretch of play by the Leafs, including how much faith he has in Jack Campbell, and a discussion on popular trade targets like Ben Chiarot and JT Miller (0:26). Plus, Bourne breaks down the 'Michigan', where Auston Matthews falls as an all-time Toronto Maple Leaf, and whether or not he'll soon be the team's captain (13:44). Afterwards, ESPN's Tim Bontemps discusses the contenders/pretenders within the Eastern Conference, if Miami or Philadelphia ...

Mar 07, 202249 min

Hour 3: Kyle Dubas' Trade Deadline Priority w/ Frank Seravalli + Wake and Rake

JD, Blake and Justin bring on DailyFaceoff.com's Frank Seravalli to take a tour around the NHL and look at the various players available that the Leafs might be interested in. Marc-Andre Fleury, Braden Holtby, Mark Giordano, and Jakob Chychrun are all names discussed with Frank, and how Toronto's goaltending issues need to be a priority at the deadline (1:07). Later, Friday's Wake and Rake cashes in a big way and the trio builds out Monday's bets (29:12). The views and opinions expressed in this...

Mar 07, 202248 min
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