Jason Mackey: Hey everyone. Welcome to my weekly sports chat. Thanks for stopping by. We'll get started shortly.
Jason Mackey: And away we go ...
Munkeefist: Do you think Jaylen Warren gets a shot at being the lead dog next year if he re-signs or are they more likely to bring someone in and keep him in his current role? Thanks for the chat.
Jason Mackey: I think he could, sure. Can't imagine why he wouldn't get a shot. At the same time, I think it's a bigger discussion. I'm not closing the door on Najee returning (though if I were him, I'd test the market). Would also think the Steelers bring someone else in if Najee leaves because there's not much else there.
Cullen: 2024 executive of the year Matt Arnold was a finalist for the Pirates GM job in 2019 which eventually went to Cherington. Do you have any insight on why the Pirates chose Cherington vs the other candidates? I know hindsight is 20/20 but if Ben can't deliver a deep playoff run after a 5 year rebuild its going to sting that we didn't go with Arnold after all of his success...
Jason Mackey: Yep, thought the same thing when I saw that. Makes this group look even worse. They went with Cherington because they thought he had more experience. Had worked at more levels throughout baseball and seen more than Arnold. I won't disagree with that. But I think it's probably placing too much importance on that versus someone who knows how to do what the Pirates need well, if that makes sense.
Cullen: If the Cardinals do opt for a rebuild and make players available would there be anyone you would go after? It seems like they would only let aging vets on big deals go, but would a guy like Donovan be available?
Jason Mackey: I have a hard enough time keeping track of everyone locally -- Pens, Steelers, Pirates, Pitt, Penn State, etc. I can't speak for the Cardinals. Although I would think, if they do rebuild, there would be options for the Pirates there, no doubt. Just depends on if Mozeliak would trade in the division, I suppose. But I don't know enough about the Cards' situation.
Richy: The annual pirates dumpster dive has begun with Gray and Cabbage. Is there any hope they will sign a free agent or two of significance this off season?
Jason Mackey: I sure as heck hope so. They need do, especially at first base. One thing that I think could still be true, which is why they didn't fire Derek Shelton (as much as most seem to disagree with it): They think they're close and value the continuity. Well, if you think you're close, you're not going to change the manager, and you know you need to win more than 76 games, you darn well better sign a free agent or two of significance.
epiballo: Hey Jason! Thanks for the chats! Goaltending is the key to winning hockey. How much of Jarry's failures is his own play and how much is his defense leaving him out to dry? Do you see him regaining his form and how long of a leash will he be on when he returns?
Jason Mackey: Good afternoon! My pleasure, as always. I'll go 60/40. Tough to put a percentage on it, but it's definitely both. They need to be a lot better in front of him, but think about some of the softies Jarry let in, especially on the first shot. Can't happen. It's also legal for your goalie to make tougher saves when necessary. Do I think he's going to regain his form? Amazingly, and probably crazily, yes, I do. I think he's going to bounce back from this.
Bruce McLaren: Hey Jason! What's your take on the Mike Williams pickup? I was frankly disappointed, after much more productive receivers, such as Brand Aiyuk and Davante Adams, were earlier targets.
Jason Mackey: I get it, Bruce. Talked about this today on First 10, actually. I understand the frustration. At the same time, those are No. 1s. The Steelers have a No. 1 in George Pickens. We're probably talking about a different type of deal. I don't know worry about the similar skill set stuff. Pickens is more than a deep-ball threat. I also don't need Williams to catch 9-10 balls a game. I need him to be a legit No. 2, allowing the field to open a little for Van Jefferson & Calvin Austin III. I think Williams kinda got a raw deal in New York, and I'm curious to see what all Russell Wilson can bring out of him.
Gene: Do you think Bishops playing time is going to suffer with Sutton back?
Jason Mackey: I don't, Gene. I think they really like Beanie in the slot. Now, if he struggles Sunday might they go another direction, sure. I don't rule that out. But I don't think they're looking to go away from him. I see Sutton as more of a Swiss Army Knife at the moment. Unless, of course, there are injuries.
demosthenes98: As a Grateful Dead fan, what are your thoughts on the recently deceased Phil Lesh? (Kind of surprised no one asked you about this in last week's chant.)
Jason Mackey: I was, too. Listening to 9/25/76 right now, BTW. Gearing up for Sunday with all of my favorite D.C. shows. This one is incredible. ... I was such a Phil fan. One of my favorite things about the Dead is the weirdness they embody and being genuine, caring people. Phil was the epitome. First time I saw a DVD of them live, I couldn't believe how ridiculous the dude looked. They I learned about his classical background, his love of symphonic stuff, spacey jams and overall unique approach to the bass, it's what makes the Dead great. They're not trying to be like anyone else.
demosthenes98: You've mentioned a few times that you think college sports conference realignment will result in one nationwide football-only megaconference. Have you considered expanding this into a column? Maybe next month when the CFP bracket is set?
Jason Mackey: Maybe. But you're combining a few of my thoughts. I would like to see football secede from the NCAA union, so to speak. I'd like to see -- this is rough -- basically four big, big conference that are more geographical, then four smaller ones. Same deal. Bottom line, I think there's a better way they could be organizing this, and it starts with football being treated than other sports. Because it is.
PrinceBob: So once someone has shown you who they are what do you do? I get why there were "Fire Franklin" chants last Saturday from people wanting to get to the "next level" but there can't be a realistic chance that will happen can it? You can't dump a guy who's well on his way to a third consecutive season of at least ten wins, has his team in the top ten in the polls, and has a $56 buyout, can you?
Jason Mackey: Yeah, it's a tough one. Ultimately, you're right, probably not. You can write the best letter of recommendation ever. Ha. Which I did include. But they're kinda stuck. Need to win big games. Franklin has shown he can't. I don't have a great solution for that.
RS: Good morning, thank you for the chats. The Penguins blowing leads or giving up goals right after scoring one of their own is not a new development. Is this a reflection on the players, the style of play/coaching philosophy or something else?
Jason Mackey: I think it's a few things. It's not listening enough to the coach. That's part. It's not being responsible enough or adherent to the system. It's not getting good enough goaltending. I'm not sure we can boil it down to one thing, but I agree with you, it's not new.
PrinceBob: One of the arguments against college football playoffs and then against expanding them was that doing it would diminish the importance of the regular season and make football like basketball where there's really never a true "big game" because the loser of that game will still get into the tournament and play for the championship but in football the loser of a regular season big game likely won't get a chance to play for the championship. Do you think that's happened in football? Up until last year the loser of a game like Ohio State-Penn State would be in a tough spot in terms of playing for a championship but this year most everyone seems to think Penn State will be in as long as they win out.
Jason Mackey: I don't, honestly. I was at Beaver Stadium on Saturday. That was a pretty damn big game. The expanded CFP sure didn't diminish anything there. It changes the stakes, sure. But I think the benefit still outweighs what you're sacrificing. I just think once we get into the CFP, that's gonna be so fun that we're not going to question any of the process that led up to it.
greg patton: what options do the pens have to start a rebuild - they are obviously not going any place this year - also you do ever travel with Pens they have a game in Columbus coming up - buy you a cold beverage if you do
Jason Mackey: I will be in Columbus. Bringing my family as a matter of fact. I'm doing a handful of Pens road games. Really looking forward to it, too. They don't have many options, Greg. Sadly. I don't know what, if anything, you could get for Karlsson or Jarry. At some point, perhaps you call it off with Crosby, Malkin & Letang. I don't see that happening. I think it's more likely at this point that they kinda just keep spinning their wheels and hope something goes right enough to get in.
Gene: How many players can an NFL team have on it’s practice squad and how much do they get paid?
Jason Mackey: Google tells me 16 and between $12,500 and $21,300 per week.
epiballo: Do you see Bob Nutting opening the purse strings just a little to sign a significant free agent or two? I, for one, am skeptical.
Jason Mackey: Yes, I do. But that's not saying he's going on a spending spree or anything. Just saying that I do think -- for reasons outlined above -- that you could see a halfway decent multi-year contract get done with a FA this offseason. Remember, they need to find a player who will commit to them, too. It's not a one-way street.
Gary: When will the Penguins admit failure and blow it up? New coach, new core, tank and rebuild?
Jason Mackey: We've been given no indication that it will be soon. But, if we get to the NHL trade deadline and they're awful, perhaps they reconsider. (I do agree with what you're implying; it's almost assuredly needed.) But think about this from their perspective: Why wouldn't they give it a try until then, see if they can figure it out, then make the tough decision? I don't see why they would make that decision on 11/7.
No way: I see on here and on social media free agents the Pirates should go after. Why on Earth would any even modestly good free agent with any sort of self respect wanna sign here given the garbage this owner pulled last year with Tellez ?
Jason Mackey: That situation was dumb, no doubt. And I'm not defending their behavior, please understand. But someone might come here because the Pirates offer regular playing time. They could also overpay like they did for Aroldis Chapman. Maybe someone feels like the Pirates have a chance to win. With Paul Skenes, Jared Jones, Mitch Keller and Luis Ortiz atop the rotation, plus more on the way, I do think there's a case to be made. But they certainly didn't do themselves any favors with the Rowdy junk.
Punt: I thought last year Narduzzi was gonna get a decent punter. Junko is trash and only has the job because of Grandpa.
Jason Mackey: He was actually pretty solid early on. My concerns with Pitt right now also come nowhere near the punter. Offense needs to rediscover what it was doing earlier this season.
Terrible: Pitt doesn't win another game this year and doesn't win any next year. True or Overreaction ?
Jason Mackey: Overreaction. What's the point in even asking this?
Bronx: What number do you think Skenes and Reynolds will wear in a couple of years when Bob has them traded to the Yankees ?
Jason Mackey: Will they combine to wear the same one?
Andrew Poni: How many more years will the Pirates sign an overweight aging first baseman to a one year deal?
Jason Mackey: Poni, have a good show today. I think/hope they go a different route at first this year.
Andrew Poni: Can we get a PITT prediction on final regular season record? (Football)
Jason Mackey: I'm going 3-1 finish, 10-2 total.
Kris Muller: 5 catches
Jason Mackey: 9 straight 3s
Kris Muller: Why is Roman Wilson unable to stay healthy?
Jason Mackey: Not quite sure. Weird one. He's been banged up. I like him, but it's been a rough go.
Prospects: How are the guys the Penguins got for Guentzel doing ? Anyone near the NHL ? They could certainly use a spark
Jason Mackey: Well, Bunting scored the other night, but that's not what you meant. Ville Koivunen has 8 points in 9 games with Wilkes-Barre. Vasily Ponomarev, who was hurt in the preseason, was also recently activated. They're both reasonably close to the NHL, yes. Believe Ponomarev has already played a couple games.
Aces High: Hello Jason. Are you going to see Iron Maiden at PPG tomorrow night? Also will the Pirates actually add some real MLB talent in the Paul Skenes 3-4 year remaining window or are we doomed with the usual dumpster dives?
Jason Mackey: Not going to see Iron Maiden, no. I prefer my music to take my emotions in the opposite direction. Sorry. ... I would/hope think so, yes. I mean, if you're not going to build around Paul Skenes, the hell are we doing here? And I don't think Paul is one to accept mediocrity. From anyone. So, yes, I do think they will add.
Overrated: I think Pitt's defensive backs are highly overrated. They were exposed last week as being not good. Agreed ?
Jason Mackey: I think SMU is a darn good team. I don't have any big issues with Pitt's DBs. It should be one of the strengths of the team. I worry there's just too much overreaction to last week. Pitt stunk. I get it. Not defending it. But are the Panthers going to miss that many tackles, drop that many passes or overall just play that poorly again? I'd like to think not. That was pretty out of character.
Pittsburgh: Is Pittsburgh a Cat Tahn ?
Jason Mackey: It's actually a labradoodle tahn.
Wayward: What is on your viewing schedule for Saturday? Side note, glad to see the Dukes' and Colonials actually playing a meaningful game this week.
Jason Mackey: The Pennsylvania Turnpike. Shipping down to D.C. for Steelers-Commanders. But, I do hope to watch Pitt and Penn State from my hotel room. Will likely miss Robert Morris-Duquesne, as Gerry, Ray and I will be driving during that time.
Aces High: Wouldn't it make sense for GMBC to go out and get a real 1b or RF in order to help cool off the hot seat he is on rather than getting his usual reclamation projects? It's only his job on the line.
Jason Mackey: I don't disagree. More than anything, it will help add some consistent pop to a lineup that really needs it.
Cullen: Will Peggy be the every day SS in 2025 or do they go with a FA or trade?
Jason Mackey: I don't see him as being the every day SS, at least not to start. I think it's probably IKF there, unless someone really like crazily pushes.
Guest: Who will be the Pirates next extension candidate? Any updates on talks?
Jason Mackey: No updates on talks. I don't know if they have one, honestly. I know folks want me to say Paul Skenes. I can't see that happening. Would you want them to extend David Bednar or Jack Suwinski? Probably not. The organization and Oneil Cruz have never been close on anything. Cruz might be my answer if I had to pick one, but again, they've been miles apart.
Bearcats: Mueller and Donny made a remark about the SMU/Pitt game being like CMU playing St Vincent. That stings. Does Westminster have any young promising coordinators that are looking to be Head Coaches ? I think they'll be an opening soon
Jason Mackey: Guessing you're not terribly confident with Aaron Smetanka? That's too bad. I don't know, honestly. But I do feel bad -- that -SVC-Westminster game was one of the most lopsided sporting events I have ever seen.
James F: Jason, do we run the table and make the playoffs, or are we damaged goods with a possibly not-quite-ready-for prime-time QB?
Jason Mackey: I think it's somewhere in the middle, honestly. I think Penn State wins out and makes the CFP. I think Drew Allar is better than people are giving him credit for. But do I think the Nittany Lions are a threat to go anywhere substantive in the 12-team playoff? No. That has been way too big of an issue, and I have no reason to view Penn State in the category of college football's heaviest of heavyweights until Franklin and Co. give me one.
Guest: Sammy Siani is raking in the AFL. Read that he had a swing change that cut down on strikeouts and improved his contact rates. Is he for real and if so what is his ceiling?
Jason Mackey: No offense to Siani, but we're talking about a 23-year-old with a sub-.700 OPS in Double-A this year. I hope it works out, but I'm not particularly worried about his performance at the Arizona Fall League or what swing change he made. Long way before it becomes relevant at the major league level.
epiballo: Triolo winning a gold glove was a surprise - not that he isn't good, but that it won an award. Does this impact in any way third base? Or has the money invested in Hayes take that off the table?
Jason Mackey: Kinda feel the same way -- surprise. It's odd the Pirates have a Gold Glove winner who probably wouldn't start if opening day was tomorrow. It shouldn't impact anything at third. If Hayes is healthy, he'll play. If not, I guess it gives them someone else who can field the position. But they also need to be aware of adding offense. Even if that becomes IKF goes to third and they do something else at SS.
KDub: Jason, how do you see the Steelers game going this week? I feel like the bye came at a great time for them.
Jason Mackey: I think they're going to have a tough time stopping Jayden Daniels, personally. But I think they're able to outscore Washington. One area where I think the Steelers have a decided advantage: running the ball. Najee has been rolling. Frazier is coming back. Washington has not done a good job stopping opposing running games.
Jason Mackey: Believe the record if 25-6. Same time, I don't know I put Daniels in that category. He's really good. Obviously not a ton of experience, but he's producing C.J. Stroud-level numbers. I think he shows out, but the Steelers are just a little better. I don't think it'll be the type of game where they force the rookie QB into a bunch of mistakes.
epiballo: What is Tomlin's record against rookie QBs? I know that Daniels has been good, but some people talk about him like he is the next Tom Brady. Who wins on Sunday?
jaygray007: Reynolds to 1b talks have sorta taken on life on "the internet." O/U 20 games at 1b for Reynolds?
Jason Mackey: Under.
Rob: What is in your opinion the best path to go down to become a beat writer? I graduate college this spring with a major in communications. I have experience writing for a small website and my university’s athletics site. Any tips?
Jason Mackey: Get a job covering high schools -- yes, high schools. Anywhere with an editor, where you learn what it's like to produce copy on deadline, build relationships and own a beat. You need to learn how to grind. You need to learn how to manage different projects. You need to learn how to keep stats, write fast and connect with readers. Be ready to move, too. If you do good work, keep saying yes. If someone affords you a chance to do it more, ask questions, learn, don't act like you know everything. And embrace the chance to show what you can do. Don't think about the end goal of being a pro sports beat writer or whatever it is. Think about developing a sound process first.
Stash: Jason, seeing the aging and generally unlikeable Ruskie eclipse The Great One is not enjoyable. T or F?
Jason Mackey: F
jaygray007: Maybe you haven't totally dug in yet but who are some targets youd like to see for Pirates 1b? I could see something like Josh bell for cheap, but I'd like to see Goldshmidt for a little more expensive. of course there are trade options too.
Jason Mackey: Can't say I've dug that far in, you're right. No thanks on Josh Bell. I don't think that sends the right message. I might be OK with Goldschmidt for the right price. They're not going to sign Pete Alonso. I really like Christian Walker, but he's probably out of their price range. This isn't going to excite anyone, but Mark Canha checks a lot of the boxes they like. I might prefer a trade for Ryan Mountcastle above any of it, honestly.
Bill b: In this time of divisiveness in America I have only seen one thing that has united Pittsburghers - The Steelers block uniforms. I thought I saw something that they’d have a new alternate next year. But let’s be honest - how can we get the block numbers to be the permanent home fit? Mobilize the people!
Jason Mackey: No doubt. Those things were glorious.
jaygray007: Has there been any word about Hayes' health? It sure sounded like he needed some surgery to ever be good again, but what to i know?
Jason Mackey: Nah. Nobody has talked about anything period. Key disappears in the offseason. Even from people close to him. I would expect to learn more soon, perhaps if Cherington talks at the GM's meetings, definitely at the Winter Meetings. But honestly, from what I know, it's a bunch of rest right now. Then restart once the disc issue calms down.
Saquon: Jason, if they ever build a statue of me, it's the obvious pose with me leaping that poor SOB backwards, yes?
Jason Mackey: Man, that was something else.
jaygray007: This is open ended and you can be as specific or general as you want, but let's just say you were given the power to spend 30 million on the Pirates' roster. What would you do?
Jason Mackey: First, a bat at 1B. Legit, middle-of-the-order threat. No question, .800-plus OPS. Second, Cutch. Third, setup guys. One lefty, one righty. Guys who can pitch in leverage innings. That's it. Four items. I should be able to do it for $30 million, too.
npc210: What in the world is going on with the Pirates’ hitting coach search? You’d think this move would have been made weeks ago. I hope it means they’re doing a deep dive/some self reflection of what didn’t work under Haines but I have my doubts based on what BC said to you guys previously.
Jason Mackey: I hope so, too. I have heard nothing, honestly. It's been very quiet, either because they're trying extra hard to keep it in-house or there's nothing happening. Strange that it's been this silent, I agree.
Diggy: Hi Jason, what are the chances the Pirates pursue and sign Goldschmidt? Do you think the Pirates believe he can still play?
Jason Mackey: He was pretty decent in the second half, if memory serves. Yeah, he fits the bill, for sure. Could be a smart, buy-low option. I think there's something left there. I just question what the market for him will be, and I imagine he wants to win now.
jaygray007: Pirates' main 2025 shortstop: currently employed by the Pirates, or currently employed elsewhere?
Jason Mackey: Currently employed.
Katie F.: Hi Jason, do you know if Malcom Nunez still fits into the Pirates’ future plans at first or third? Thanks.
Jason Mackey: Not unless he really does something to separate himself. They brought him back on an MiLB deal, so he's in the mix. But I don't get the sense they're penciling him in for MLB time at this point.
Minkah: Jason, milk cartons have started to document my 2-year disappearance. What gives?
Jason Mackey: Really, really odd. Use him closer to the line of scrimmage. Find a way for him to make plays. Minkah has disappeared. Again.
Dawn Football: Other than being a NIL guru what are you seeing with the new Pitt AD?
Jason Mackey: Not a ton that we didn't know. Likable guy, seems like. Good at uniting people. Genuinely wants to be at Pitt. Has really seemed to embrace this whole thing. Wouldn't say there's been anything wildly new, though.
PENS10: Thanks for the chats. Do you still believe Jarry will have his best season ever for the Pens? Maybe finish strong and win some big games for the team?
Jason Mackey: Of course. And, yes, I do. I think he'll bounce back from this. It's still plenty early.
Dawn Football: Skenes/jones/Keller/????/???? In April?
Jason Mackey: Ortiz and Falter. ... Maybe a swing situation with Oviedo & Burrows in there somewhere.
Foster: Hey Jason, do you get a sense that this is the off season that Cherrington makes a big trade or signs significant free agent or will it be business as usual?
Jason Mackey: I think he will do more. I do. I think that's probably why they stood pat on Shelton -- that they think they're close, even if many will disagree. But I think they recognize where they're weak. I'd hope so, anyway. And they have a bunch of spots spoken for. Those they don't, they better realize they need to spend to improve them.
Jason Mackey: OK, folks. That does it for this week. Thanks so much for joining me. Excited to get back to some Steelers football this weekend. Will talk to you next Thursday!
First Published: November 7, 2024, 3:00 p.m.
