Bullpen Options & Glimpse of the 2026 Identity with John Schneider
4/24/202650 min
Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider (2:20) joins Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker to share some injury updates on George Springer, Trey Yesavage and more, why he isn't definitive on who he's bringing out in the 9th inning, Louis Varland's increase high-leverage workload, what adjustments he'd like to see from Kazuma Okamoto's at-bats, if he sees remnants of the 2025 Jays' identity on their recent road trip, Ernie Clement's contact rate, and Brandon Valenzuela's adjustment to the Majors. Then, the guys hear from GM and VP Ross Atkins on the team's start to the 2026 season and Jeff Hoffman not being designated as their closer. Afterwards, The Athletic's Jayson Stark stops by (33:38) to discuss the state of the Phillies, their president declaring manager Rob Thomson is not on the hot seat, if fans could dictate his future, and why the New York Yankees could be a real threat to the L.A. Dodgers.
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 any affiliates.
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First 90 secondsSpeaker 00:00
[gentle music] Kidney disease is more common than you think. It affects one in 10 Canadians and often develops without any symptoms. If you're living with diabetes or high blood pressure, you may be more vulnerable. Knowing your risk is a simple first step. Taking one minute now could help you stay healthy. Visit AreYouAtRisk.ca. That's AreYouAtRisk.ca. A message brought to you by the Kidney Foundation of Canada.
Justin Bourne0:28
Explorer NB is a proud partner of the Toronto Blue Jays. Let's talk about one of the most beautiful places on Earth, New Brunswick, because believe it or not, not everybody has been there.
Kevin Barker· Host0:40
I don't believe it. If you haven't been to New Brunswick, do you even know what relaxation is? Have you ever walked on Canada's warmest saltwater beaches? Have you never watched a whale crest from the ocean in the Bay of Fundy?
Justin Bourne0:53
Well, some folks haven't. Some folks have never even seen the Atlantic Ocean or driven along the coast in search of the best seafood on Earth.
Kevin Barker· Host1:03
Fix this for yourself, for your loved ones. Set off on your own coastal road trip and get a sense of New Brunswick. Visit SenseNB.ca to learn more, and start planning your trip today.
Jeff Blair· Host1:14
[upbeat music] All right. Welcome back to Blair and Barker, brought to you by Capital One. Capital One, giving Canadians credit for 30 years. 7:07 will be the