Was this the greatest World Series story ever told? How about the most memorable Game 7? The Blue Jays, in the end, had chances to hold on to or extend the lead, then, when the Dodgers tied it, chances to win in regulation and then tie it when falling behind in the 11th. The Dodgers' comeback in Games 6-7 came mainly due to the Japanese influence of Series MVP Yoshinobu Yamamoto and superstar DH-RHP Shohei Ohtani, with rookie Roki Sasaki looming as yet another Rising Sun weapon. Griff and Mal discuss the short list of the Jays' top heroes and who wears the horns of the goat. What has this post-season run done for Vlad Guerrero Jr.'s image and his future. What happens to Bo Bichette in free agency, and is Trey Yesavage a mortal lock for stardom in 2026. All this and more in this week's Exit Philosophy.

INDEX:

0:00 – Intro

0:35 – Impressions and Reactions to Game 7

10:45 – Max Scherzer is a Maniac In The Best Way

17:35 – Dodgers and Japan ..Can the Jays be Players in Pacific Rim?

25:47 – Miguel Rojas Home Run

28:52 – Jeff Hoffman

33:45 – Ernie Clement's Outstanding Postseason

37:56 – Gold Glove Snubs

39:35 – IKF's Baserunning Might Have Cost them The World Series

45:50 – Top World Series Performers

50:20 – Ohtani's Extra Warm Up Time

52:10 – Trey Yesavage -  What Does 2026 Look Like?

57:29 – Greatest Game 7 Ever?

1:01:10 – When Richard Met Debbie

1:02:18 – Where Do The Jays Go with Bo Bichette?

1:07:24 – Impact on Canada of World Series Run

1:10:55 - Outro

Please subscribe, like and leave a review whereever you listen!

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

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For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

Griff and Mal discuss Games 4 and 5 of the World Series in LA. Also, we preview games 6 and 7 to discuss what the Blue Jays have to do to bring a World Series championship back to Canada and the city of Toronto. 

INDEX:

0:00 – Intro

0:32 – World Series Recap – Blue Jays are Resilient

1:30 – How Can They Win It at Home?

6:15 – Bullpens are the Key

9:35 – Yesavage has All-Time Performance and Game 5 Recap

18:12 – Can they get to Yamamoto?

20:55 – 18 Inning Marathon in Game 3 + Ohtani Performance

27:50 – History of Teams Going Home with 3-2 Lead

33:00 – Global Impact of World Series

36:18 – Who Is Going to DH? Bo or George

40:18 – Kirk Gibson World Series Story

41:22 – Chris Bassitt

42:55 – Jose Berrios

45:07 – Jeff Hoffman

46:30 – Brendan Little

48:06 – Eric Lauer

50:10 – Louis Varland and Seranthony Dominguez

52:05 – Addison Barger

55:20 – John Schneider vs Dave Roberts

57:15 – Vlad or Ohtani for MVP

1:00:00 - Outro

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy

----

For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

The Blue Jays may indeed be receiving Herculean efforts from the lineup and the starting rotation, but when it comes to closing out ballgames, the bullpen and the way the relievers are being used are clearly their Achilles' Heel. Griff and Mal discuss the Jays' relief corps individually and consider whether it can be improved. And what about Trey Yesavage? The danger sign showed up in the Reds series, allowing 23 runs. Three games, yet winning two. Exit Philosophy recounts the sports world's issues of the week…Kahwi and the Clippers, Boone and the Yankees, Framber's hissy-fit, who are the legit AL East contenders, and more. We rank the Jays Top 3 players of the year, plus it's NFL Week 1, and we give you each of our Top 5 best bets.

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INDEX:

0:00 - Intro

1:25 - Thoughts on Kawhi Leonard/Clippers Scandal and Salary Cap in Sports

8:00 - Yankees Fallout and Umpire Frustrations vs Houston in Loss

12:45 - Did Framber Valdez Cross Up His Catcher on Purpose?

18:27 - Roman Anthony Out for Season, What is Red Sox Outlook?

22:10 - Will There be a 100 Win Team This Year?

27:15 - Recapping the Blue Jays/Reds Series and What Is Going on With The Pitching?

34:42 - Blue Jays Defensive Limitations

36:40 - The Bullpen and What NEEDS to Happen

50:50 - Trey Yesavage Is Ready to Pitch Out of the Pen

54:30 - Who is the Blue Jays 2025 MVP? 

58:25 - Week 1 NFL picks ATS 

1:05:21 - Outro

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy

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For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

In S1E20, the guys compare the 2015 and 2023 Blue Jays rosters and come to a surprising conclusion. Where to even begin with the week that was in Blue Jays Land? Who, exactly, was the crowd booing in the back half of Texas' series sweep? Scotty thinks he knows. Wins don't have to be pretty, they just need to pile up, and the Jays got in done over the weekend vs. Boston. And the guys discuss the latest Alek Manoah "news."

The guys recorded on Monday morning, September 11th, so the show starts with Griff and Scotty Mac recalling where they were on that fateful day 22 years ago. The Blue Jays and Texas Rangers have an important series in Toronto this week and Scotty says if the Jays win the series, you can book them into the playoffs. Who would be in your Blue Jays starting rotation for the playoffs? The guys discuss. And the Mariners' George Kirby is angry he went over 90 pitches? It's a business thing.

In S1E18, Griff and Scotty Mac discuss Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s disappointing season and whether it's time for manager John Schneider to more firmly address the topic with Vlad and then take it public; Scotty Mac wonders if Schneider is capable of it given the dynamics of the Blue Jays' front office. The Jays' path to reclaiming a playoff spot in the near-term is clear, obvious, and *shouldn't* be complicated. The guys are amused by the mess that is the L.A. Angels.

Not much needs to be said: Griff and Scotty Mac discuss a couple of hot current Blue Jays topics and then settle in for an hour-long talk with the one and only John Gibbons, the former Blue Jays manager who was in Toronto earlier in August to celebrate Jose Bautista. Gibby brings his usual humour and storytelling. Enjoy this chat, the guys sure did.

In S1E16, Griff and Scotty Mac discuss the badly needed return of Bo Bichette to the lineup and a successful weekend against the Cincinnati Reds (that didn't start out well). The stretch drive begins with a healthy starting rotation and bullpen; can the offence please try to keep up? Why the Alek Manoah situation won't be a distraction and why is a coach tweeting minutes before a game starts?

In S1E15, Griff and Scotty Mac celebrate the weekend that was for Jose Bautista; where does Saturday's ceremony rank among the all-time great Blue Jays moments? Was it a fitting tribute to one of the franchise's legendary players? Plus, after a sweep of the Red Sox a weekend ago, the Blue Jays settle back into a middling run of games. Does Griff believe there's more to this team? Does Scotty Mac? Listen and find out!

In S1E14, the guys talk about Davis Schneider's epic debut weekend in the big leagues, the effect it's having on the other Blue Jays' hitters and whether Schneider has staying power. The Alex Verdugo situation is a mess in Boston (that's a *shame*). And ahead of Jose Bautista's more-than-deserved induction into the Blue Jays' Level of Excellence, the Griff and Scotty Mac look back on Bautista's time in Toronto and tell some fun stories about covering his teams.

The guys break down the Blue Jays' work at the trade deadline and muse about the continued underwhelming performance of the offence. A contract like George Springer's is supposed to pay off in its earlier stages, isn't it? Life without Bo Bichette, however long it will be, begins. And in Griff's Riffs, Griff relives the 2019 trade deadline, which took place during a game in Kansas City.

In S1E12, the guys look back on the Blue Jays' weekend in Seattle. Did Alek Manoah cement his spot in the rotation for the rest of the year? Is George Springer the Blue Jays' leadoff hitter on reputation alone because he arrived in Toronto as a lauded leadoff hitter? Griff goes on a hall-of-fame rant about the Hall of Fame. Scotty Mac's in Charlottetown, loving it, and learning way more about Canadian/PEI legend Lucy Maud Montgomery than he thought!

In S1E11, the guys predict the year-end standings in the American League East and their picks will surprise you; the Blue Jays' six-man starting rotation is shaping up; and Griff remembers the day in 1997 when he played golf with two Cy Young Award winners ... ...... and Erik Hanson.

The Blue Jays know it's crunch time and manager John Schneider has worked the rotation to have his three best starts vs. the Brewers then in the Bronx. Griff and Mal discuss extra rest for Lauer, making the bullpen great again, AL Top 5 MVPs, the importance of avoiding the Wildcard round, shoutouts to Cito Gaston, Markham's Jonah Tong called up to the Mets and more.

Please remember to subscribe, like this episode and leave a review of Exit Philosophy!

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

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For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

In Episode 10, Scotty Mac has a "back in my day" moment about the All-Star Game. Griff almost got eunuched by who? Also, while the Blue Jays went 5-1 on their road trip to end the first half, did they really answer any of the pressing questions surrounding the team? And what to make of Alek Manoah's return to a big league mound.

In Episode 9, Scotty Mac drops the "they are what they are" line on the Blue Jays; does Griff agree? Could John Schneider reconfigure the lineup to get more out of his hitters or are the Jays suffering from a personnel problem? The guys look at the Blue Jays' four All-Stars, including a nice feather in the cap of Whit Merrifield and in the latest installment of Griff's Riffs, Griff remembers the unique 1981 All-Star Game.

Griff and Scotty Mac discuss whether Blue Jays fans should be disappointed the team didn't sweep Oakland; should teams get to challenge a handful of ball/strike calls each game; the home plate collision rule is as confusing as ever; and as Scotty Mac powers his way through illness (lol), Griff recalls a ballot box stuffing story from the 1982 All-Star Game.

In Episode 7, Griff tells us why Chris Bassitt is much better when Alejandro Kirk is his catcher and not Danny Jansen. When will Vladdy go on a tear? Scotty Mac asks Griff about one of Griff's biggest life decisions. On Juneteenth, the guys wonder why baseball isn't doing more to attract young African-American athletes. And Griff talks about a great weekend at the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame.

In Episode 6, Griff and Scotty Mac recap the Blue Jays handling of the Anthony Bass situation following the developments late in the prior week; Scotty has a theory, are the Blue Jays shaping up to be the Theo Epstein era Cubs but without a ring; and Griff previews induction weekend at the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame in St. Mary's, Ontario.

In Episode 5, Griff and Scotty Mac discuss the fallout from Anthony Bass' decision to post anti-LGBTQ+ propaganda and what should happen from this point onward. Plus, the Blue Jays are suddenly on a roll. And from the Way Back Machine, Griff takes us to 1991 and how, as the Montreal Expos' PR guru, he orchestrated a great goodbye for fired manager Buck Rodgers.

As the Blue Jays hit the one-third mark of the season, Griff and Scotty Mac talk about Vladdy's power outage, Alek Manoah's continuing struggles, and the Jays continuing lack of depth. Also, from the way back machine, 34 years ago, Griff remembers the Expos trading for Mark Langston and Scotty reminisces about the opening of SkyDome.

In Episode 3, Griff takes us behind the scenes of the controversy when Vladimir Guerrero Jr. didn't play on Victoria Day, 2019; and the guys break down an ugly week for the Blue Jays where the team not only lost most of its games but looked lost doing so.

"In this special Extra Innings episode of Exit Philosophy, Griff and Scotty Mac discuss the extent of the Yankees' cheating, the Blue Jays' response, and how concerning is the performance of Alek Manoah so far this season."

In Episode 2, Griff and Scotty Mac discuss accountability in the clubhouse, the Blue Jays' big week ahead, the best baseball moments on Seinfeld, and Gene Mauch, the first manager Griff worked with.

On this weeks episode of Exit Philosophy, Griff and Mal reflect on the series vs Pittsburgh and Tommy Pham's infamous ball four bat flip. Will Shane Bieber force the hands of the Blue Jays brass and insert himself at the top of the rotation and who will get bumped? Rob Manfred keeps making headlines, this time about league realignment and expansion. Canadian slugger Owen Caissie is just starting his big league career, and some other happenings around Major League Baseball. 

Please subscribe, like and leave a review wherever you listen.

INDEX:

0:00 Intro 

1:32 Pirates series discussion. Why Pham is fleeting

5:30 Vlad's aching hamstring and a series they needed to win

12:02 Yankees, other chasers and the comfort of reaching 90 wins

17:14 Rotation abundance of riches and is Lauer now a reliever 

25:35 Setting up a playoff Rotation 

36:06 Rob Manfred's worst laid plans…expansion, realignment and more

48:46 Shoutout to Owen Caissie and more. Astros woes, Wheeler surgery. 

55:41 Final thoughts and more. 

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

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For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

For a rare appearance in front of Blue Jays media, team president Mark Shapiro talks about his future with Rogers ownership as he nears the end of his contract. On Exit Philosophy, Griff and Mal discusses Shapiro's views on the evolution of his manager John Schneider, what his lukewarm comments on negotiations with Bo Bichette might mean, the success of the team compared to 2024 and more. The boys explain the importance of Mason Fluharty's huge strikeout of Shohei Ohtani and how it may have saved the psyche of the clubhouse. Heading to September, will the lefty combo of Brendon Little and Fluharty, if they are joined by Eric Lauer, be an advantage. It may be that Sahlen Field in Buffalo was the place to be this week, with Alek Manoah, Trey Yesavage and Shane Bieber all getting a chance to start for the AAA-Bisons. Also, is 90 wins the target for the Blue Jays to safely earn a playoff spot … and more.

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INDEX:

0:00 Intro 

0:37 The media avail of Mark Shapiro

5:20 Shapiro on Shapiro's future

10:43 Bo's future with the Jays

23:02 Manager John Schneider performance review and question of an extension

31:25 Shapiro remembers the anniversary of the start of the '94 strike and the Indians

34:34 The impact of Fluharty's strikeout of Ohtani in L A.

41:05 Building a late-season Jays bullpen with 3 lefties and Yesavage

46:36 Building a shortened playoff rotation

49:37 Targeting 90 wins for the Jays

55:27 Raleigh or Judge for AL MVP

59:39 Ironbacks summary and looking ahead

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy

----

For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

The Blue Jays are the Beasts of the East, the hunted not the hunters in this race to the title in what has traditionally been the toughest division in baseball. How did they get there and what about the Yankees and Red Sox. Did Bo Bichette win the bet on himself when he didn't sign any of the deals that have been offered by the Jays over the past several years and what kind of total value, or AAV could he expect? Does Bo know shortstop or could he do a Marcus Semien? The Yankees seem like a good fit as a new home for the Jays shortstop this coming offseason. How would Bo look in pinstripes? Griff and Mal discuss the well-documented clubhouse confrontation between Phillies star Bryce Harper and MLB Commissioner. Was there a message to his madness and how big an influence was his super-agent Scott Boras? What about when RH Shane Bieber is ready to start in the majors again coming off Tommy John. It's a great problem to have, deciding whether to go with a six man rotation for the final seven trips through the rotation or the traditional five. LH Eric Lauer has been the most consistent starter but he could be the odd-man out. Are the Blue Jays getting the proper respect from national media and their own fan-base? Why not? Ross Atkins deserves some credit for filling the need for two more hard throwing bullpen arms and a clear roll of the dice with Bieber. Should he have done more at the deadline? Finally, a heartfelt discussion between Mal and Griff about the expansion Niagara Ironbacks' experience in the Perfect Game Collegiate Summer League. With Mal as co-owner and GM and Griff as field manager, the two compare memories of a team that despite a difficult season on the field, provided a culture that stayed bonded in the clubhouse and dugout.

INDEX:

0:00 Intro

2:25 - As Bichette steps up offensively so does his price tag. Will he remain at short.

14:44 - Tale of the tape Manfred vs. Bryce Harper clubhouse dustup

21:12 - Do Blue Jays get the respect they deserve and why not?

25:43 - What to do with Shane Bieber and the existing 5-man rotation.

33:57 - Who is the Jays main threat in the AL East, Red Sox or Yankees

 41:13 - In praise of Ross Atkins.

46:40 - Will the prospect capital sent away at the deadline haunt the Jays?

49:49 - The Jays have a record $75.6M on the IL. Significance?

 52:47 - A tribute to the Niagara Ironbacks expansion season and a reaffirmation of why we love baseball and team sports.

59:11 - Outro

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy

----

For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

Coming out of one of the busiest MLB trade deadline days in recent memory, the Blue Jays feel they may have completed their shopping list, adding a former Cy Young Award winner, a right handed bat and a hard throwing reliever to go with Seranthony Dominguez obtained from the O's two days earlier. Was that enough for Ross Atkins and the Jays to rank among the Top 6 winners heading down the stretch and what's the best way to coax a rehabbing Shane Bieber remaining healthy into October? Rich Griffin rolls solo for this episode with Mal set to return next week. 

Please like, subscribe and leave a review whereever you listen to the Exit Philosophy Podcast. 

INDEX:

0:00 Intro

1:00 How O's disaster forced Jays hand 

2:22 Zane Smith vs. Seranthony Dominguez 

4:28 Bieber and a 6-man rotation

8:30 Trade with the Twins

11:35 Shape of the pen

12:25 Top 6 Deadline winners

26:1 Wrap-up of busy day

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy

----

For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

In this episode of Exit Philosophy, Griffin and Mal discuss the All-star game with all its tweaks, like Mic'd up players, the limited challenge system and the swing off to end a tie. What about the Blue Jays and the 2025 draft. Is scouting director Marc Tramuta bringing a new philosophy? What about Vlad? Is he worth all that money and being the All-Star starting first baseman? Then with the trade deadline approaching, why do they need more bullpen help. 

Subscribe, like and leave a review wherever you listen or watch your podcasts.

INDEX:

0:00 Blue Jays first half and AL East resurgence.
2:11 The Tigers dominate the fading AL Central.
3:29 Tribute to the late Jim Clancy
8:22 All-Star Game opinions
13:08 Mic'd up players at the ASG
16:00Pitch challenges at ASG
21:07 what intangibles separate Vlad and Alejandro Kirk
23:36 Did the Miz deserve all-star invite for Brewers
27:01 Is HR Derby in danger of becoming Slam Dunk competition
30:26 Evaluating Blue Jays draft and rating scouting director Marc Tramuta
38:12 What is Vlad's worth beyond the statistics
43:52 Why is nobody talking about Bo
46:38 History of 8th overall pick through the years.
48:22 The Bullpen as Achilles Heel
52:26 Ironbacks update

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy

----

For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

The Blue Jays are arriving at the All-Star break with an unexpected lead in the once-again powerful AL East. How did their once-ridiculed farm system create a lineup with this much significant length from unexpected sources? What do the Jays need to do at the trade deadline to maintain a 95-win pace? Was George Springer the biggest All-Star snub and what about Max Scherzer as a legacy selection? The MLB Draft is at hand and the Jays have had just 5 major-leaguers out of the last five drafts. And is it a PR disaster for ownership to jack the price of streaming Jays games by 30% in Sept? Then there's the Ironbacks.

Leave a review, like and subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts. 

INDEX:

Time stamp 7-11

0:00 Intro 

1:04 The MLB Draft

4:58 The Jays Great '24 draft

8:40 Draft stories from the Past

12:38 Drafting Brett, Schmidt, and Dan Warthen back-to-back

15:13 Jays all-stars. Did MLB miss the boat on Springer and Scherzer?

24:18 How did Jays get to this point?

27:13 Can Jays sustain and maintain in AL East using trade deadline?

35:18 Anthopoulos and the '14 Jays clubhouse revolt at the deadline

38:47 Jays length vs Yankees depth. How the farm system contributed

44:55 Roger's+ package price increase in Sept. Why? 

49:19 Shoutout to Jays social media 

51:06 Ironbacks report

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy

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For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

Coming off a break from the Exit Philosophy podcast, Griff and Mal return with plenty to talk about as the Blue Jays complete a four-game sweep of the Yankees to take over top spot in the resurgent AL East. How have the Jays gone from two games below .500 on May 28 to the current status of battling for first with the Yanks and Rays?
What have been the biggest surprises for this Jays team over the first 88 games? Who are the most important players? What about the injuries? Did injuries to Anthony Santander, Andres Gimenez and Daulton Varsho, in fact, allow the team to discover some diamonds in the rough that have made this lineup deeper and stronger?

Griff and Mal discuss the Blue Jays' major need at the trade deadline and the state of the starting rotation, given the iffy status of Max Scherzer and the likelihood Eric Lauer will suffer some sort of lull later in the year. Will they add an arm?

The '25 All-Star Game is almost at hand, and Vlad Guerrero Jr. has earned the starting nod at first base with Alejandro Kirk as the AL's second catcher. Does Vlad's season thus far warrant him being deserving starter? What should be the criteria for being an all-star?

They discuss the MLB's biggest trade of the year and the lingering anger in Boston over Rafael Devers being dealt to the Giants. Was Devers being selfish, or did the Red Sox front office mishandle the situation of Alex Bregman taking Raffy's position with no discussion.
Finally, there's an Ironbacks report and update, after half a season at historic George Taylor Field in St. Catharines. Mal and Griff give their impressions on the newest team in the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League.

INDEX:

0:00 Intro  

2:36 Other sports clear the way as Raptors fire Ujiri + Shai Gilgeous Alexander and growing the sport 

8:29 Florida Panthers repeat Stanley Cup. How close were the Leafs?

10:23 The Blue Jays historic run of 33 games and reading into current slim run differential

17:36 Blue Jays four biggest surprise players 

29:25 Analyzing the starting rotation in the age of Lauer and Scherzer

36:00 Biggest Potential Buzz Kills for the Jays hopes  

42:50 Analysis of Rafael Devers deal to Giants. Selfish?  

47:33 Vlad is the AL all-star starting first baseman. Should he be?

51:42 Niagara Ironbacks Update. Learning to love long bus rides and tallboys.

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy

----

For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

 The Blue Jays leave home having swept the powerful Padres in three games to complete a 5-4 homestand and now play six, in Tampa (3) and Texas (3). This week's Exit Philosophy has Griff and Mal weighing in on the big sports story of the moment in Toronto, the Maple Leafs and their parting of ways with president Brendan Shanahan. Are there comparisons with the Jays organization and should Shanahan have been given a media platform on the way out the door. Griff describes a similar situation in the '90s with fired manager Buck Rodgers. Is this the moment for the Jays with six primary outfielders, to give a banged-up Anthony Santander 10 IL days to get healthy and regroup? The Jays bullpen has stepped up and is as deep as anyone can remember…except for some blips on the Jeff Hoffman radar. Do they keep him in the closer role? A look at how good MLB teams with slow starts have bounced back and how that reflects on the Jays. The Top 5 List of position players born in the '80s is amazingly thin and how is that a caveat for Vlad in the final five seasons of his mega contract. Plus, a Niagara Ironbacks inaugural season (St. Catharines) is looming in the PGCBL. 

INDEX:

0:00 Intro   

0:22 Maple Leafs decision to let president Shanahan go  

2:47 The Jays and the future of their president Shapiro 

5:15 Vlad and Bo and the factor of no salary cap 

10:13 Shanahan's no presser exit compared to Buck Rodgers  

16:37 Homestand ends with sweep of Padres 

22:29 Jays struggles in Tampa through the years   

27:33 Santander, Springer and the crowded OF mix    

31:40 What happens when Andres Gimenez returns 

36:35 State of the Jays Bullpen   

43:51 Jays Rotation and the looming crisis of 4-5 starters 

50:18 Good teams rebounding from slow starts 

55:36 Phillies emerge as Jordan Romano heats up 

1:02:05 Top 5 List … MLB position players born in the '80s 

1:08:13 Niagara Ironbacks Update  

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy

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For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

Griff's recap of an epic World Series game 3. 

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

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----

For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

Very quietly, the Blue Jays have been playing winning ball, since April 30, sabotaged far too often by inexplicable bullpen failures blowing leads in the 8th and 9th innings. In this week's Exit Philosophy, Mal and Griff discuss those woes that have left the Jays playing pickleball with.500. On Tuesday Commissioner Rob Manfred announced that all-time hits leader Pete Rose has had his ban lifted and he is no longer ineligible for the Hall-of-Fame. Why did baseball do this out of the blue and what does it do to Griff's respect and perception of MLB and the Hall. How much of this lifting of the ban was due to influence from the White House? The boys discuss the Rafael Devers situation and whether he is a proud superstar or bad teammate and could all this drama have been avoided. A Jays back-end of the rotation review, an update on the Niagara Ironbacks and more. Hit the subscribe button, like and leave a review wherever you listen!

 INDEX:

0:00 Intro   

0:38 Blue Jays bullpen steps up vs Rays  

3:30 Leafs Playoff talk 

6:32 Jays since April 30 could be far better 

10:50 Up and down bullpen over 13 games 

14:48 Back end of Jays rotation forecast 

28:24 Jays injury update and Clement-Barger fill-in   

30:49 Jays who's hot and who's not    

33:51 Mal's Niagara Ironbacks update home opener June 7 

37:44 Pete Rose eligibility restored. What about politics?   

49:11 Red Sox and Rafael Devers position change. Who screwed up? 

61:38 Remaining homestand doesn't get any easier 

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

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For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

The Blue Jays bullpen alarmingly turned three leads into losses on the way to a devastating four-game losing streak vs. the Guardians and Angels. Griff and Mal discuss how rare it is for a team's two highest leverage relievers to slump at the same time and are there any possible solutions. Recent roster changes include RH Spencer Turnbull and RH Jose Urena  aimed to solve the crisis that has emerged at the back-end of the rotation, filling in for Max Scherzer and after Easton Lucas and his brief two-start time as the answer. Discussing Alan Roden and if it was the right move to send him back to Triple-A in favour of the speedy OF Jonatan Clase. Plus, the Top 5 list of most disappointing teams in baseball andn should that include the Jays…and more. 

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy

----

For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

The Blue Jays somehow have arrived at the end of April just two games below .500 despite zero in the way of significant offence. Griff and Mal discuss the individual performances of the season's first month for Blue Jays hitters and what needs to happen to create a best possible batting order. The Exit Philosophy co-hosts discuss an all-of-a-sudden shaky back end of the rotation and what may have to become an answer. Away from baseball, there was the rogue father issues of Tyrese Haliburton (Pacers) and Shedeur Sanders (NFL), plus a look back at a great fund-raising event, a 1,000 person Gala, in Montreal at ExposFest, retiring the uniform numbers of nine former stars, raising over $300K with the major vehicle being a team that left town for Washington D.C. 20 years ago.

INDEX   

0:00 Intro   

0:59 Hockey Playoff comments 

3:18 In praise of the Blue Jays heart 

5:42 Haliburton and Sanders and dealing with sports parents 

15:20 ExposFest in Montreal was a great show 

19:15 April player-by-player review and how Jays are not buried  

42:00 Best batting order vs. RHP    

46:12 Revisiting the Kikuchi trade and what's at Buffalo  

49:57 The back end of Rotation looking shaky  

53:57 The Bullpen discussion  

55:45 Top 5 April MVPs for Jays   

58:58 Solutions for Jays current crisis 

59:00 Ironbacks update  

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy

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For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

The Blue Jays arrive at the end of April after a rollercoaster ride of fan optimism and despair. The shooting star that was LH Easton Lucas has departed leaving questions of where to go next. What about the batting order after a dismal performance in Houston? Is bringing Daulton Varsho back a stabilizing answer for what ails the Jays, and should George Springer be reintroduced to leadoff? Mal and Griff discuss the Top 5 teams in the latest power rankings and the AL's rookie class in 2025. All this and far more is in this week's Exit Philosophy.

INDEX  

0:00 Intro   

0:52 Great time of year for Pro Sports 

7:16 Solving the Jays April woes 

11:40 Bo and the batting order 

16:59 Rotation possibilities 

26:23 Fall behind and feels like its over   

27:52 When should we see Varsho    

32:41 Organization OF depth 

35:59 Oh what a relief it is  

42:25 MLB Top 5 Teams  

48:35 Ranking AL Rookies   

58:58 Solutions for Jays current crisis 

48:13 Top 5 List Jays strikeout games  

1:02:37 Ironbacks update

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy

----

For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

Should Blue Jays fans be encouraged by the solid start to the '25 season, even though there have been obvious flaws and an offence not clicking on all cylinders. Mal and Griff discuss that, plus what to make of the Vlad extension press conference, Max Scherzer's relationship with his replacement Easton Lucas and what it means to a new-look rotation, how high leverage bullpen pieces have come together and more. They talk about unusual injuries through the years, plus a Top 5 list of Jays strikeouts in a game, a list dominated by Roger Clemens. Finally, there's the disappointing way Jackie Robinson Day handled by the Dodgers and by MLB.

INDEX:

0:00 Intro   

1:26 Attendance Concerns 

3:45 Jays early success in AL despite flaws 

5:24 Easton Lucas and Max Scherzer 

6:57 Team concept and Lineup Construct 

11:46 In praise of NL West  

14:59 Hoffman and the bullpen    

19:42 Clues from the Vlad Presser 

24:43 Roster Moves and Springer  

33:55 Rotation and Leverage  

37:53 Jackie Robinson   

42:45 Freak Injuries 

48:13 Top 5 List Jays strikeout games  

1:01:05 Ironbacks update  

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy

----

For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

The biggest news of the Blue Jays week, of course, was the monstrous 14-year extension offered up to Vlad Guerrero Jr. In addition to outlining the dollar details, Mal and Griff explain the possible ripple effect of the third-largest total value contract in MLB history and what having Vlad, the face of the franchise, on board through 2039 could mean for Bo Bichette, to Mark Shapiro and Ross Atkins, for attendance at Rogers Centre and the trickle-down benefitting future free agents like Kyle Tucker. Should the Jays trade Bo if they think they can't afford both young stars. What about the Jays rotation and the improved length they are giving, compared to a year ago. Is Easton Lucas this year's Bowden Francis and who are the Top 5 homegrown Blue Jays starting pitchers, signed and developed since 2000. Plus, another week in which EP offers apologies to backup catcher Tyler Heineman, who has started the season like an all-star.    

INDEX

0:00 Intro  

0:31 Jackie Robinson Day and Clemente disrespect 

4:00 Vlad tribute to victims of the DR disaster 

9:22 Vlad's Contract and its ripple effect 

12:34 What about Bo Bichette 

17:10 Vlad deal impact on Mark and Ross  

20:34 Does Vlad make Jays destination of choice    

22:41 The Stadium renos and no roster rebuild 

26:59 Vlad's contract details  

34:30 Rotation impact without Scherzer 

38:33 Internal surprises Roden and Lucas  

41:37 Top 5 List Jays homegrown starters  

1:00:41 Varsho update Heineman apology  

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy

----

For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

The Blue Jays opening homestand was undeniably less than satisfying, even though the team finished up a successful 5-2 set at Rogers Centre before heading to New York for the Mets home opener. Maybe it's because the attendance was disappointing. Maybe it was that the front end of the bullpen was abysmal in three of the games, led by the failures of secondary southpaws Richard Lovelady and his replacement Mason Fluharty. On this edition of Exit Philosophy, Griff and Mal discuss MGR John Schneider's learning process with a team relying on its rotation and some spectacular defence to get by, evidenced by the warning signs of a negative team run differential. With rumours of an imminent Vlad extension floating around, mostly from Vlad's own people, where do they think the situation stands with optimism tempered by the reality that the Jays could have and should have handled the Vlad and Bo issues long ago. They talk "torpedo bats", a 10-game road trip, the suggested revision of the Jays lineup and much more.

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy

----

For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

Opening Day is about renewal, but there were things about Thursday that remain extremely disappointing for the Blue Jays, from the lukewarm reception accorded to players upon pre-game introductions at Rogers Centre, to the light booing of the US anthem, to a patriotic fan being thrown out of the ballpark for his choice of message on his baseball hat, to the on-field mistakes, both mental and physical, committed by the home team in a 12-2 loss to the O's. Griff and Mal discuss the manager's choice of Jose Berrios ahead of Kevin Gausman, the structure of the opening day batting order, Alejandro Kirk's new contract, where Vlad stands at the moment regarding his own negotiations and more. Then there are Griff's favourite opening day memories, the Top 5 Jays second basemen all-time, pre-season MLB Power Rankings and more. 

INDEX  

0:00 Intro + Fan Ejection for red hat 

4:23 Opening Day Summary 

6:35 Griff's Top 10 Openers 

11:39 Mental and Physical opening day mistakes  

17:27 State of the Bullpen 

21:03 Lineup Construction 

24:12 Kirk Contract 

28:00 Vlad Contract Revisited  

34:26 Top 5 Jays second basemen 

42:47 Max Scherzer and options 

50:32 MLB Power Rankings 

58:24 Ironbacks update and signoff

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy

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For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

With a week to go before Opening Day, Blue Jays' president Mark Shapiro held his annual spring media availability in Florida and offered a surprisingly optimistic outlook on the possibility of a long-term contract extension for Vlad Guerrero Jr. Following a dismal winter of fans pondering Shapiro's early opinion that Vlad was good, but not a generational talent, the CEO now cites the perceived desire for a mutual outcome and wants to make the 26-year-old first baseman a "legacy player." Mal and Griff discuss this welcomed turn of events, plus the Max Scherzer thumb issue and how did it get to this point. What does the injury that he says has bothered him since 2023, mean to the Jays' rotation and what are the rotation options. Opinions of the season opening Dodgers-Cubs series in Japan, the prospect Spring Breakout games, predictions for the NL East and more.

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

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----

For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

With more and more information leaking out last week regarding Vlad Guerrero Jr. and his multi-year contract expectations, Mal and Griff discuss whether there is there any team in baseball that will meet the 26-year-old's apparent demands for a "current value" contract extension for 14 years that would almost equal Ohtani and may start with a five? And what happens if Vlad posts numbers more like 2023 than his MVP level '24 stats? Dave Roberts after years of being second-guessed was rewarded by the Dodgers making him the highest paid manager in MLB. How did he reach that point and is there any comparison of an early Roberts to Jays skipper John Schneider. The Top 5 list is a ranking of strength-up-the-middle for the AL. Can the Jays contend in a banged-up AL East and more. Like. Subscribe. Share.

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy

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For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

In this week's Exit Philosophy, as the Blue Jays head towards their first Fall Classic appearance in 32 years, Griff and Mal break down the team's League Championship Series win vs. the M's, from George Springer's historic three-run blast in Game 7, to Mad Max's aggressive meltdown getting in the face of manager John Schneider. And where was Seattle's dominant closer, Andres Munoz, to face the top of the Jays order with eight outs to go and the tying run on second, a series win for the taking? What about the highly regarded M's rotation when they were most needed. Moving on to the World Series, should Bo Bichette be activated for Joey Loperfido, even if he's only able to swing the bat once per game? Hey fans, Shohei Ohtani's flight has finally landed, unfortunately, it's still not to sign with the Jays. Is Trey Yesavage the man for Games 2-6 of the World Series vs. the Dodgers if the Jays expect to win. Is the Jays' bullpen still an Achilles Heel, and how does it match up against the Dodgers' disappointing group of relievers? Has Vlad done enough in this postseason to cement his legacy at 26 years old? Plus, a quick head-to-head comparison between the Jays and Dodgers. All this and more.

INDEX:

0:00 - Intro

0:30 - The Blue Jays Are Heading to the World Series

8:10 - Where did the Mariners Go Wrong?

10:35 - Max Scherzer Game 4 Start

12:35 - Schneiders Brilliant Move with Max

15:15 - Trey Yesavage in the World Series

18:40 -  Did Andres Munoz Pitch Enough?

20:30 - Can John Schneider Outmanage Dave Roberts?

25:05 - Vladimir Guerrero Jr is The Guy!

27:28 - Pete Walker Felt This in March

31:50 - Vlads Legacy Postseason

35:12 - How Does This Impact The Next Generation of Fans?

38:20 - World Series Preview

47:45 - Best Way to Describe this Blue Jays Lineup

50:45 - The Keys for the Blue Jays in the World Series

54:40 - Dodgers vs Blue Jays Positional Breakdown

1:00:54 - World Series Predictions

1:02:20 - Outro

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

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----

For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

Although the Blue Jays, rotation depth is a strength, entering MLB's Fantasy draft season, the 5-man starting group is only ranked borderline good enough to make the post-season. Mal and Griff discuss that, plus which Jay starter should be given the opening day nod, why the art of tanking for draft position means less in baseball, is it even possible to improve a bad Jays bench, and more. Leave a review, like and subscribe!

INDEX:

0:00-Intro 

0:31 Blue Jays advantage finally open season at home 

6:00 Creative Trea Turner challenge of Scherzer first pitch 

11:19-Why "tanking" doesn't mean as much in MLB  

18:47-Comp '16 Yankees who tanked at deadline got better to '24 Jays

23:22-Trump pardoning Pete Rose to get him to Cooperstown 

25:34-Highly paid free agents and bribes for uniform number   

30:46-Who should be Opening Day starter for Jays  

36:21-Ranking the 30 MLB rotations with Jays at No. 11   

49:48-Pitchers earning $15M-plus and are they worth it 

54:10 Trying to improve a bad Blue Jays bench group  

1:02:36 The impact of Gimenez and comps to Alomar 

1:09:48 Ranking the AL West 

1:12:56 Weekly Niagara Ironbacks update  

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

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----

For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

Switching up the Exit Philosophy gears, veering away from the all-Vlad all the time debate, Mal and Griff check in with their deep dive into the similar choices for 26-year-old Bo Bichette between a Blue Jays contract extension or should they move to explore a trade. They talk the impact on the Jays of Max Scherzer, early reports on the challenge system, the future impact of new hitting coach David Popkins and far more. Subscribe, like and leave a review!

INDEX:

0:00-Intro  

1:26 Tkachuk won't let Four Nations controversy fade  

3:31 Impact of Max Scherzer 

7:41-Scherzer's dislike of the challenge system 

14:54-Huge spring rosters and how they sort themselves out 

21:26-What to do with Bo in terms of '25 then reaching free agency 

23:19-What teams might be interested in Bo as a free agent in '26  

33:09-Why Bo shouldn't bat leadoff but then who 

37:38-Two suggested platooning positions for Jays   

44:45-Can Kirk start 115 games at catcher   

48:31 The impact of the new hitting coach  

57:11-is there wisdom in trading Vlad and Bo now 

1:04:00-Niagara Ironbacks update  

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy

----

For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

It seems everything the Blue Jays have tried to accomplish in free agency the last two years has served to drive up the price of signing their own superstar, Vlad Guerrero Jr. leading to a Catch-22 of finding an extension with which both sides can live. On Exit Philosophy, Mal and Griff discuss the effect of the Jays serious bids the last two years for Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto and, now, where they think Vlad fits in under his unique circumstance. They explain the ripple effect of not signing Vlad with regard to their fans, inside the clubhouse. What might be the best of three strategies moving forward. Also, Mal and Griff talk Robo-Ump, George Springer and his willingness to accept change, Mal's summer league Niagara Ironbacks and more.

INDEX:

0:00-Intro  

1:36 Four Nations Faceoff vs. NBA All-Stars 

6:27-The Vlad Guerrero Jr. contract deadline 

8:22-The Catch-22 of Jays bidding for Ohtani and Soto 

10:59-Deferrals and the road to Vlad win-win 

13:18-The ripple effect of Jays failure to sign Vlad  

16:47-Why does FO not trust the long-term for Vlad 

23:16-Springer's willingness to accept changes  

26:25-Defensive alignment and Jays new lineup   

33:21 The bullpen and a second southpaw 

37:28-Robo-ump is on the way 

45:17-The 46 MLB starters earning $15M +. Jays have 4.   

56:18 Discussing the wide-open NL Central  

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

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----

For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

0:00-Intro + Thanks

2:01 Four Nations Faceoff and Super Bowl 

7:09-Canadian Baseball Hall-of-Fame 

22:19-First Day of Spring Training and memories 

31:58-Bregman to the Red Sox and other signings 

35:37-MLB Top 100 players and wherefore the Blue Jays  

38:25-The important reasons for extending Vlad 

43:54-MLB Top 100 prospects and wherefore the Blue Jays  

50:05-Top 10 List of AL Offensive Fantasy players   

1:04:44 Update on Mal's Niagara summer league team 

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

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----

For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

The Blue Jays are spending $77.5M in payroll on their talented Top 4 starting pitchers, so how to protect this investment and make sure the rotation has its best chance to remain healthy and productive. Mal and Griff outline a plan for a six-man rotation that affords at least one extra day of rest for 90 of 97 games pre-All-Star. With Pete Alonso re-signing with the Mets, are the Jays done with improvements to the lineup and, if so, what letter-grade do they deserve. The Top 5 list is rating the AL infields and do the Jays make the list? A Super Bowl discussion and much more. Like and subscribe.

INDEX:

0:00-Intro

7:14-NFL Super Bowl discussion with predictions.

11:47-Pete Alonso re-signs with Mets. Anyone surprised?

17:14-Tribute to former commissioner Fay Vincent.

23:22-Umpire Pat Hoberg fired for connection to sports gambling

27:18-Discussing the benefits of a Jays six-man rotation

 44:27-Ranking the Top 5 AL infields.

58:38-Giving the Jays a letter-grade for their off-season 

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

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----

For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/

The late-breaking Max Scherzer signing by the Blue Jays leads this week's discussion on Exit Philosophy with Griff and Mal. Is the Dodgers spending spree in building a potential dynasty good for baseball. Does MLB, in fact, need an Evil Empire? An up close look at MLB win totals from Bet 365 with the Jays set at 76.5. Mal says that's about right. Why is nobody allowed to talk directly to Pete Alonso? Have the Jays done enough this off-season and can it ever be enough without extending Vlad?

INDEX: 

0:00-Max Scherzer signing 

9:15-NFL championship weekend 

14:28-Mal's summer league team in Niagara 

17:14-Dodgers looming dynasty. Good for the game? 

25:12-How corporate ownership changed MLB 

37:13-Examining the Over/Under win totals for 2025 

49:30-Directive that nobody can talk to Pete Alonso.  

54:29-In praise of the MLB players union   

57:03-When is $92.5M not $92.5M? Deferrals! 

1:03:00-What Jays accomplished this off-season. Enough? 

1:06:06-The failure surrounding not extending Vlad 

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Get the video version of "Exit Philosophy" and "Conversations with Griff" on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@ExitPhilosophy

----

For the full catalogue of Richard Griffin's work, including weekly Blue Jays/MLB columns, a weekly MLB Power Rankings column, exclusive conversations with some of the game's greats, past and present, and the Exit Philosophy podcast, visit https://www.griffsthepitch.com/