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Bat Flips and Maple Dips - A Toronto Blue Jays Podcast

Bat Flips and Maple Dips - A Toronto Blue Jays Podcast

By Justin A, Patrick M

Baseball podcast from a couple of guys who love the game. The main focus will be on the Toronto Blue Jays, but we will dabble in the league as a whole and touch on other subjects occasionally.
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BFMD Episode 101 - 2020 Infield Grades

Bat Flips and Maple Dips - A Toronto Blue Jays PodcastNov 04, 2020

00:00
46:39
BFMD Episode 288 - 2024 Season Preview: The Bullpen & Predictions

BFMD Episode 288 - 2024 Season Preview: The Bullpen & Predictions

In the finale of the 2024 season preview Justin and Patrick discuss the bullpen and what impact the injuries to Jordan Romano and Erik Swanson will have.

The guys break down expectations for each reliever and highlight specific areas that will determine their success or failure.

Patrick takes us through the lightning round where he and Justin name players who they think will be most likely for team MVP, underachiever, and more!

The guys wrap up with a quick look around MLB and at the AL East.

Mar 27, 202401:42:04
BFMD Episode 287 - 2024 Season Preview: The Rotation

BFMD Episode 287 - 2024 Season Preview: The Rotation

In part 3 of the BFMD 2024 Blue Jays preview series Justin and Patrick discuss the rotation.

What is the concern level with Gausman's health going into the season? How many starts might he miss?

Can Berrios and Bassitt deliver repeat years of 2023?

Will Yusei Kikuchi put an awful spring behind him?

How much can we expect from Bowden Francis, Mitch White, and Alek Manoah?

Mar 26, 202448:14
BFMD Episode 286 - 2024 Season Preview: The Other Guys

BFMD Episode 286 - 2024 Season Preview: The Other Guys

In part 2 of the season preview series Justin and Patrick discuss what the rest of the position players bring to the lineup after covering the every day players in part 1.

Can IKF do enough with the glove to make up for his below average hitting? Will Cavan Biggio or Davis Schneider claim every day roles? Is Ernie Clement a full season big leaguer or just the hot hand for now? Will Nathan Lukes stick or ride the bus between Toronto and Buffalo?

In part 3 the guys will break down the rotation.

Mar 25, 202448:39
BFMD Episode 285 - 2024 Season Preview: The Big Bats

BFMD Episode 285 - 2024 Season Preview: The Big Bats

With the 2024 season around the corner Justin and Patrick bring you a BFMD tradition with their season preview series. This year we are doing things a bit different and dedicating 4 (maybe 5) episodes to adequately discuss each player that will break camp and look to make an impact with the Jays this year.

In this episode the guys dicuss the position players who will get every day at bats for the Jays this season and what to watch for with each.

Can Daulton Varsho turn into more of a threat with the bat? Will Justin Turner continue to defy Father Time? Will Bo Bichette receive MVP votes?

Mar 23, 202401:03:39
BFMD Episode 284 - Ernie Clement Season

BFMD Episode 284 - Ernie Clement Season

Justin and Patrick are back to continue guiding you through the news out of Blue Jays camp.

The guys provide updates on Gausman, Manoah, and Jansen, and discuss the bench battle that continues to rage on.


Mar 17, 202447:44
BFMD Episode 283 - Joseph Daniel Votto

BFMD Episode 283 - Joseph Daniel Votto

Joey Votto is a Blue Jay, and Justin & Patrick are back to break down the signing, the BFMD lore, and the impact Votto could make.

The battle for the bench is heating up with both Nathan Lukes and Ernie Clement playing very well so far this spring.

Kevin Gausman is back on the mound, and the Jays did take a late run at re-signing Matt Chapman.

Mar 10, 202450:43
BFMD Episode 282 - Matt Chapman Settles & Jays Offseason Review

BFMD Episode 282 - Matt Chapman Settles & Jays Offseason Review

Justin and Patrick are back with another episode of BFMD.
Matt Chapman signed in San Fransisco.
Alek Manoah is potentially hurt.
Ricky Tiedemann back on the mound.
Will Daniel Vogelbach make the team?
What grade do the Jays get for the offseason?
Mar 04, 202443:31
BFMD Episode 281 - Everyone Gets a Cutter!!

BFMD Episode 281 - Everyone Gets a Cutter!!

Justin and Patrick are back to discuss all things Blue Jays.

Alek Manoah had a wild start to his spring while Jose Berrios looked solid. Both have added Patrick's favourite pitch to their arsenals ahead of the new season.

The guys discuss Vladdy's arbitration and contract comments, and dive into a news story about MLB potentially reducing the number of pitchers teams can carry for 2025 and beyond.

If you like what we do, give us a follow and a review!

Feb 29, 202457:28
BFMD Episode 280 - Bullpen Power Rankings

BFMD Episode 280 - Bullpen Power Rankings

Justin and Patrick return with the first episode of 2024 Grapefruit League action.

Cody Bellinger re-signed with the Cubs. What does this mean for Matt Chapman?

After Nate Pearson and Yosver Zulueta both had blow ups in their first spring appearences, the guys list out their bullpen power rankings based on trust and confidence. Where will mainstays like Jordan Romano and Tim Mayza end up? Will the difference in opinion on Chad Green and Trevor Richards impact their ranks?

Feb 25, 202401:12:41
BFMD Episode 279 - Best Shape of Our Lives

BFMD Episode 279 - Best Shape of Our Lives

Justin and Patrick are back AND in the best shape of their lives.

Okay maybe not, but the guys are thriving off of the news out of Blue Jays camp.

Nate Pearson added a splitter, Ricky T added muscle, and the Jays signed a couple of MLB vets to minor league deals.

The guys discuss the remaining free agents and Mike Trout saying that he does not want to be traded.

Feb 19, 202448:19
BFMD Episode 278 - Reporting for Duty

BFMD Episode 278 - Reporting for Duty

Spring Training has officially opened with pitchers and catchers reporting today in Dunedin.

Alek Manoah is in better shape, Don Mattingly grew a beard, Cavan Biggio has tendonitis, and the Jays still don't have a full time third baseman.

Justin and Patrick break down everything in the news and discuss the 2024 Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame class and give an update on free agent rumours on Matt Chapman and Cody Bellinger.

Feb 16, 202401:13:51
BFMD Episode 277 - Justin Turner Overdrive

BFMD Episode 277 - Justin Turner Overdrive

The Jays have signed veteran DH/INF Justin Turner to a 1 year deal.

Justin and Patrick break down what the deal means for the offence and more importantly, the defence.

Alek Manoah trade rumours are swirling, and Vladdy will be on the cover of MLB The Show 24.

Feb 02, 202457:33
BFMD Episode 276 - Recapping the Blue Jays Free Agent Signings

BFMD Episode 276 - Recapping the Blue Jays Free Agent Signings

Justin and Patrick return to recap the three players the Blue Jays have signed so far this month.

Kevin Kiermaier is back.

Isiah Kiner-Falefa swapped his pinstripes for a blue bird.

Yariel Rodriguez of the Cuban national team wants to be a starter and the Jays will give him a chance.

The guys also discuss the playing time at 3rd base and starting pitching depth in the organization.

Jan 21, 202439:33
BFMD Episode 275 - Blue Jays Prospect Report - Part 2

BFMD Episode 275 - Blue Jays Prospect Report - Part 2

Justin and Patrick continue their countdown of the top 31 Blue Jays prospects according to FanGraphs.

In this episode the guys cover the top 10 and discuss the future impact of guys like Arjun Nimmala and Ricky Tiedemann.


Jan 06, 202401:11:59
BFMD Episode 274 - Blue Jays Prospect Report - Part 1

BFMD Episode 274 - Blue Jays Prospect Report - Part 1

Justin and Patrick bring you traditional offseason content with the Blue Jays top prospects report.

Using FanGraphs the guys work their way down the list and tell you who they have their eyes on.

Do any of these guys have what it takes to make an impact at the MLB level in 2024?

In this episode: #31 to #11

Jan 04, 202401:16:19
BFMD Episode 273 - Ohtani Fallout, Bellinger & Stroman Rumours

BFMD Episode 273 - Ohtani Fallout, Bellinger & Stroman Rumours

The Toronto Blue Jays did not sign Shohei Ohtani.

He was not on board that plane.

He was in Southern California.

After losing out on baseball's unicorn the Toronto Blue Jays need to pivot to fill the large holes in their lineup. Justin and Patrick discuss what happened and where they think the Jays should go from here.

Dec 18, 202355:50
BFMD Episode 272 - Grading Vladdy & the Infield

BFMD Episode 272 - Grading Vladdy & the Infield

In the final part of the 2023 grading series Justin and Patrick grade the Blue Jays infield.

The guys debate on Vladdy, Chapman, and the catchers.


Dec 14, 202301:00:02
BFMD Episode 271 - Showing the Gloves Some Love?

BFMD Episode 271 - Showing the Gloves Some Love?

The grading series continues with Justin and Patrick looking back at the 2023 Blue Jays outfield.

The guys discuss whether or not George Springer can rebound from a down year, and what to expect from Daulton Varsho going forward.

Should the Jays re-sign Kiermaier?

Dec 08, 202346:47
BFMD Episode 270 - Ohtani Sweepstakes & Bo Rumours

BFMD Episode 270 - Ohtani Sweepstakes & Bo Rumours

Justin & Patrick are taking a break from the grading series to give you an update on current news.

Sportsnet is parting ways with radio host Ben Wagner.

The 2024 Baseball Hall of Fame Ballot is out.

The Blue Jays are rumoured to be among the final teams in the Shohei Ohtani sweepstakes.

Bo Bichette trade rumours are circulating.

The guys give their take on this and more!

Nov 30, 202355:56
BFMD Episode 269 - Handing Out Bullpen Grades

BFMD Episode 269 - Handing Out Bullpen Grades

Justin & Patrick are back with the 2nd of 4 grading episodes. This time the guys are talking relief pitching. The Jays used quite a few options out of the arm barn in 2023 and a lot of them were very effective.

Where do the guys rank Jordan Romano among MLB closers? What is Patrick's hot take on Tim Mayza?!

Next up: the bats

Nov 23, 202301:00:03
BFMD Episode 268 - A is for Gausman, F is for...

BFMD Episode 268 - A is for Gausman, F is for...

Justin and Patrick bring back a BFMD classic: player grades.

First up: the rotation.

Surprisingly, the Blue Jays only used 6 traditional starters this year as the others who started/opened games were in the bullpen.

The guys hand out grades and discuss any concerns for the future.

Nov 16, 202352:51
BFMD Episode 267 - Coaching Changes, Chappy QO

BFMD Episode 267 - Coaching Changes, Chappy QO

Justin and Patrick return from a three week hiatus to discuss the fact that Guillermo Martinez was not fired. Dave Hudgens was reassigned to Florida and Don Mattingly is now the offensive coordinator.

The Jays have offered Matt Chapman a qualifying offer, declined Whit Merrifield's option, and are said to be looking to sign or acquire position players this winter.

Nov 08, 202332:49
BFMD Episode 266 - Shapiro Presser Recap & Our Thoughts

BFMD Episode 266 - Shapiro Presser Recap & Our Thoughts

Mark Shapiro spoke on Thursday and while there was some substance to his conference there was also nothing major that was concrete.

Justin & Patrick break down what he said, what it means, and what is next for the team.

The guys look throw the 2024 roster and offer their thoughts on potential outcomes for players.

Oct 15, 202301:11:01
BFMD Episode 265 - Who Do We Blame?

BFMD Episode 265 - Who Do We Blame?

The Blue Jays season came to a crashing halt after being swept by the Twins.

Justin and Patrick discuss what happened and ask who to blame.

John Schneider? Ross Atkins? The players? The analytics department? Hitting coaches?

There is plenty of content to come as we enter the offseason so stick with us!

Oct 05, 202301:30:14
BFMD Episode 264 - Jays Headed to the Twin Cities

BFMD Episode 264 - Jays Headed to the Twin Cities

The regular season is over. Justin and Patrick preview the AL Wild Card series against the Twins and discuss who needs to be the X factor for both teams in the series.

Can the Jays rotation provide quality innings? Will the bats come alive when it matters?

Oct 02, 202356:09
BFMD Episode 263 - One Step Closer

BFMD Episode 263 - One Step Closer

After a series win at the Trop the Blue Jays find themselves in control of the second Wild Card spot heading into the final week of the season.

It will be a repeat week against the Yankees and Rays but all six hames will be in Toronto.

Vladdy came alive on Sunday and George Springer was involved with the bat and the glove.

Can the Jays lock up their playoff ticket against New York?

Sep 25, 202354:15
BFMD Episode 262 - Vladdy's Knee, AL Wild Card, Manoah Update

BFMD Episode 262 - Vladdy's Knee, AL Wild Card, Manoah Update

After a hurricane stopped them from recording last weekend Justin and Patrick return to cover the past week of Blue Jays games. From the lows of the sweep against Texas to the highs of the current 5 game win streak the guys cover it all.

Updates on Vladdy's knee are positive, another wrinkle in the Manoah saga adds even more intrigue.

Sep 21, 202359:18
BFMD Episode 261 - Royals Flushed

BFMD Episode 261 - Royals Flushed

After a sweep of the Royals the Jays now find themselves in the second Wild Card position in the American League. Justin and Patrick break down the weekend's games and preview the biggest series of the year to date against the Texas Rangers.

The guys look at the pitching matchups, discuss Jose Berrios' turnaround year, and highlight some key injuries the Rangers are dealing with.

Sep 10, 202301:08:43
BFMD Episode 260 - Mile High Expectations

BFMD Episode 260 - Mile High Expectations

The Toronto Blue Jays head to Oakland for a three game set after taking two of three in Denver.

Bo Bichette is nearing a return but the Jays will be without Danny Jansen after the catch suffered a broken finger on a foul ball.

Spencer Horwitz, Ernie Clement, and Davis Schneider all chipped in big time for the Jays. The offence will need everyone to keep scoring if they hope to catch up in the Wild Card race.

Sep 04, 202342:14
BFMD Episode 259 - Hanging On by a Thread

BFMD Episode 259 - Hanging On by a Thread

After a week of .500 baseball the Blue Jays find themselves 2.5 games out of a playoff spot.

As they head out on the road for 6 games against two of MLB's worst teams Justin and Patrick discuss what's happened recently and what is to come.

The guys discuss the future of Matt Chapman and speculate on who the team will add to the roster when it expands to 28 on September 1st.

Aug 31, 202301:03:44
BFMD Episode 258 - The Genesis of Cabrera

BFMD Episode 258 - The Genesis of Cabrera

Justin & Patrick discuss Vladdy's potential injury, Ryu's brilliance, Bo's return, and other tidbits from a series win in Cincy.

Genesis Cabrera has turned it around since he was traded to the Jays. The guys discuss what the biggest changes have been.

It's a huge series against the division leading Orioles. With the Jays on the outside looking in they need all of the wins they can get.

Aug 21, 202343:43
BFMD Episode 257 - Could the Jays Sign Ohtani?

BFMD Episode 257 - Could the Jays Sign Ohtani?

With the Blue Jays trading wins and losses over the past week they find themselves only a half game ahead of a surging Mariners team for the final Wild Card position.

Justin & Patrick discuss the latest games and preview what needs to happen over the remaining 40 on the schedule.

The Jays will get a quartet of reinforcements this weekend as Bo Bichette, Kevin Kiermaier, Trevor Richards, and Chad Green appear poised to return.

The guys then do a vintage 'What If?' segment of BFMD and discuss what it would take to see Shohei Ohtani sign with the Jays this winter.

Aug 17, 202301:17:03
BFMD Episode 256 - Hot N Cold Road Trip

BFMD Episode 256 - Hot N Cold Road Trip

After a sweep of the Red Sox in convincing fashion the Toronto Blue Jays headed to Cleveland and were only able to split a low-scoring series with the Guardians.

Justin & Patrick break down the lack of situational hitting and highlight the starting pitching.

The guys then preview this weekend's series with the Chicago Cubs and talk Jose Bautista.

Aug 10, 202357:08
BFMD Episode 255 - Where are the Bats?

BFMD Episode 255 - Where are the Bats?

Justin and Patrick are back to discuss the futile performance of the Blue Jays against the Orioles.

Is it time to fire Guillermo Martinez and the hitting staff?

Can the Jays still make the playoffs while playing like this? Would they even win a game?

Aug 03, 202350:29
BFMD Episode 254 - Jordan Hicks & Angels Series Win

BFMD Episode 254 - Jordan Hicks & Angels Series Win

The Toronto Blue Jays made a splash in the trade market late Sunday afternoon in acquiring Jordan Hicks from the Cardinals for prospects Sem Robberse & Adam Kloffenstein.

Justin & Patrick break down the move and what it means for the bullpen.

The guys also recap a series win against the Angels and preview a crucial 4-game series with the Orioles.

Pour one out for Mitch White who was DFA to make room for Hicks.

Jul 30, 202339:32
BFMD Episode 253 - Late & Stressful Nights

BFMD Episode 253 - Late & Stressful Nights

After a west coast road trip that saw the Jays go a frustrating 3-3 despite holding leads in all six games, Justin and Patrick return to review the carnage. The guys tee up the weekend series with the Angels and discuss the looming trade deadline.

Jul 27, 202301:02:03
Generous Bassitts, Struggling Manoah, Adding Stroman & Bellinger

Generous Bassitts, Struggling Manoah, Adding Stroman & Bellinger

Justin & Patrick are back to once again beat the Alek Manoah struggles to a pulp. The guys are running out of words to describe what is happening to the big man.

Chris and Jessica Bassitt are giving back, Kevin Gausman is returning, and Ryu & Green are getting close.

Is it possible to add both Stroman and Bellinger at the same time? What would it cost? What will it take and should the Jays overpay to get a deal done early?

Jul 20, 202350:30
BFMD Episode 251 - Gausman, D-Backs, Padres & Stroman

BFMD Episode 251 - Gausman, D-Backs, Padres & Stroman

Justin & Patrick start off the episode with a twenty minute TV shows discussions before finally getting to the latest in Blue Jays news.

The guys discuss Kevin Gausman's injury, Arjun Nimmala signing, sweeping the D-Backs, and the upcoming series against the Padres.

Rumours are circulating that the Jays are interested in trading for Marcus Stroman before the deadline, and the guys voice their opinions on whether or not it is a good idea.

Jul 17, 202301:05:56
BFMD Episode 250 - 5 Years of BFMD

BFMD Episode 250 - 5 Years of BFMD

Justin & Patrick celebrate 5 years of the podcast by exchanging gifts and reminiscing on the many great moments of the show.

The guys cover the All-Star weekend and preview the D-Backs series including Zac Gallen and Corbin Carroll.

Jul 13, 202301:02:26
BMFD Episode 249 - Manoah Returns, All-Star Break Looms

BMFD Episode 249 - Manoah Returns, All-Star Break Looms

Justin & Patrick return to discuss the return of Alek Manoah and what it means for the rotation.

Hyun-jin Ryu and Chad Green are nearing returns.

Daulton Varsho and Alejandro Kirk are struggling.

What does the team need at the deadline?

Jul 09, 202301:09:22
Episode 248 - Where are the Jays at?

Episode 248 - Where are the Jays at?

After another two week (forced) hiatus Justin & Patrick discuss the season to date, and talk about how the Blue Jays have performed so far.

The guys dive into the offence, defence, and pitching and highlight specific players who have performed well and not so well.

Jun 27, 202301:16:07
BFMD Episode 247 - Biggio Blast Salvages Series

BFMD Episode 247 - Biggio Blast Salvages Series

The Blue Jays wrapped up what was an up and down homestand with a win thanks to great relief pitching and a Cavan Biggio home run on Sunday.

Justin and Patrick discuss the Manoah demotion, Astros & Twins series, and preview the upcoming road trip through Baltimore, Arlington, and Miami.

What can we expect to see from the Manoah spot in the rotation? Will Kevin Gausman be okay? What's going on with Cimber?

Jun 11, 202301:02:26
BFMD Episode 246 - Kings of Queens

BFMD Episode 246 - Kings of Queens

The Blue Jays are flying high after a series sweeeeeeep of the New York Mets in Queens. Strong performances from Bassitt, Berrios, and Kikuchi were helped by clutch hits to secure three victories.

The Jays return home for a tough homestand against the defending champion Houston Astros and Minnesota Twins.

Justin and Patrick preview the pitching matchups and give you an idea of what to watch for over the next 4 games. Justin highlights where Tim Mayza should be used and Patrick asks what we can expect from Alek Manoah.

Jun 04, 202343:39
BFMD Episode 245 - Looking at Orelvis, Nate & Kirk

BFMD Episode 245 - Looking at Orelvis, Nate & Kirk

After a second consecutive series win for the Blue Jays, Justin & Patrick recap what went down against the Brewers. Gausman was great, the bullpen held the line, and the bats provided enough offence in games one and three to earn victories.

Next up is a weekend trip to Queens to play the Mets where the Jays will encounter old foe Justin Verlander.

The guys highlight Orelvis Martinez and Nate Pearson before doing a deep dive into Alejandro Kirk's numbers thus far.

Jun 01, 202301:02:41
BFMD Episode 244 - Jays in Free Fall

BFMD Episode 244 - Jays in Free Fall

Justin & Patrick return from a 2 week break to discuss the state of the Blue Jays. There have been players performing at a high level like Bo Bichette and Tim Mayza, but also players who need to improve like Alek Manoah, Chris Bassitt, and Yimi Garcia.

The guys discuss what to do with Manoah (again), where to use Garcia effectively, starting pitching depth, and the Milwaukee Brewers who are coming to Toronto.

May 29, 202301:05:17
BFMD Episode 243 - Jays Chop Braves

BFMD Episode 243 - Jays Chop Braves

After a series sweep of the Atlanta Braves the Blue Jays are riding high heading into a tough week against the New York Yankees and Baltimore Orioles.

Chris Bassitt was dominant, throwing a complete game shut out, and the bats were able to do enough damage after Berrios and Kikuchi starts to earn all 3 wins.

Justin and Patrick recap the weekend and share their thoughts on the Yankees series.

May 14, 202337:57
BFMD Episode 242 - Manoah Continues to Struggle, Braves Preview

BFMD Episode 242 - Manoah Continues to Struggle, Braves Preview

It's time to talk more about Alek Manoah. The 2022 AL Cy Young runner up has struggled to start 2023 and Justin & Patrick discuss what they've seen, what the MLB analysts and writers have seen, and what the Blue Jays can do to help him get back to the pitcher he can be.

The guys get into what happened in Philly, and preview a tough series against Altanta to start off a ten game homestand.

May 11, 202301:01:56
BFMD Episode 241 - Roller Coaster Week, Belt Hot, Garcia Cold

BFMD Episode 241 - Roller Coaster Week, Belt Hot, Garcia Cold

Justin and Patrick recap the road trip through Boston and Pittsburgh in what ended up being two completely different results. The bottom of the order came alive over the weekend led by Brandon Belt.

Bassitt, Berrios, and Kikuchi were strong and have the Jays rolling as they visit the Phillies and Bryce Harper for two games.

The guys discuss Vladdy's wrist, Pop's performance & injury, Yimi Garcia's struggles, and preview the pitching matchups in Philadelphia.

May 08, 202340:28
BFMD Episode 240 - Gausman is Great & Should Whit Hit Leadoff?

BFMD Episode 240 - Gausman is Great & Should Whit Hit Leadoff?

The bullpen finally crumbled but the Blue Jays still finished their homestand against the White Sox and Mariners with a 5-1 record.

Justin & Patrick are back to review what happened and also to preview the four game series at Fenway Park against the Red Sox.

Should Whit hit leadoff?

Apr 30, 202347:43
BFMD Episode 239 - Jays Hammer White Sox

BFMD Episode 239 - Jays Hammer White Sox

Justin and Patrick are back to break down a series sweeeeeeeep of the Chicago White Sox by the Toronto Blue Jays.

The Jays got terrific pitching and contributions from the entire lineup.

Up next are the Seattle Mariners in a rematch of last fall's Wild Card series. The Jays will look to get the upper hand to keep pace in the ultra competitive AL East.

Apr 26, 202358:33