The JD Bunkis Podcast

Episodes

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  Leafs Roster Decisions and the Overlooked Matthews w/ Luke Fox 25.09.2026 48m

  JD opens the show with his thoughts on the Leafs' bonding trip in Arizona this weekend before being joined by Sportsnet's Luke Fox (6:32). Together they discuss Steven Lorentz being waived yesterday, first impressions on Gavin McKenna, Auston Matthews' health entering the year and how Jim Hiller's system could reinvigorate Matthews' offensive game. Afterwards, JD and the producers wrap with “What We Missed” (35:31). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
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  Vladdy’s Foot Meets His Mouth + Leafs Preseason Takeaways w/ Anthony Petrielli 24.09.2026 48m

  JD reacts to Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s quotes from a recent interview regarding his contract and his follow up comments after the Toronto Blue Jays' double-header against the Baltimore Orioles (0:00). Then, JD is joined by Anthony Petrielli from Maple Leafs Hot Stove (16:57) to discuss Gavin McKenna's impressive preseason outing, whether he requires protection as a rookie, how the Leafs compare to other playoff hopeful teams in the Atlantic Division, lineup machinations and whether Nicholas Paul is the lynchpin to the third line's success. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
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  What's Next for the Blue Jays and MLB's Labour Negotiations w/ Jim Bowden 23.09.2026 48m

  JD is joined by Jim Bowden, MLB Insider (4:00), who shares his perspective on the Toronto Blue Jays' offensive struggles, whether the lineup fix for 2027 starts with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. or the bats surrounding him, the Blue Jays' ability and willingness to add through trade opposed to free agency, and where labour talks stand between MLB and the MLBPA ahead of the postseason. Afterwards, JD discusses Kawhi Leonard's reported two-year extension with the Toronto Raptors and whether he took an impactful discount (43:42). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
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  Off-Season Impact of the Jays’ Stretch Run Collapse w/ Ben Ennis 22.09.2026 48m

  JD and Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show (0:00), discuss the Toronto Blue Jays' fading playoff chances, concerns with Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s performance beyond 2026, how aggressive the front office should approach this off-season, and potential pathways to improving the roster over the winter. Then, JD and Ben wrap up the show with "Old News" (42:32). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
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  The End of the 2026 Jays w/ Ben Nicholson-Smith 21.09.2026 49m

  JD begins the show reviewing the Toronto Blue Jays' disappointing weekend series in Texas before being joined by Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith (12:35). Together, they discuss the Blue Jays' wilting playoff chances, level of concern with Dylan Cease's shoulder injury, whether the benefits outweighed the risks involved with keeping Cease in the rotation during September, and an early look at offseason priorities for the front office. Afterwards, JD shares his takeaways from Week 2 in the NFL and first impressions from Leafs preseason action (43:15). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
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  What the Jays Need, the Kawhi Extension Question + Josh Allen Dominates the Playground and NFL Week 2 Urgency w/ Carmen Vitali 18.09.2026 49m

  JD shares his thoughts on the importance of the Toronto Blue Jays' weekend series in Texas and Kawhi Leonard's anticipated two-year extension with the Toronto Raptors (0:00). Then Carmen Vitali, analyst at Fox Sports Radio (16:15), joins the show to review Josh Allen's vintage performance in the Buffalo Bills' first win at new Highmark Stadium, overreactions from Week 1 in the NFL that might hold true, and which teams are already feeling urgency to win this upcoming weekend. Afterwards JD and the producers wrap with "What We Missed" (42:50). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
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  The Refreshed Leafs + Training Camp Preview w/ James Mirtle 17.09.2026 49m

  JD begins the show discussing the level of anticipation and intrigue ahead of this Leafs season compared to recent years. Then, JD is joined by James Mirtle, Senior Writer at The Athletic (8:18), to preview Toronto Maple Leafs training camp storylines including Auston Matthews' health, expectations for Jim Hiller's management of Gavin McKenna, how the lines at forward could shake out, and Darren Raddysh's eventual defensive partner. Afterwards, JD and the producers wrap with "What We Missed" (44:28). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
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  Matthew Knies + 2027 NHL Pressure Points w/ Justin Bourne 16.09.2026 48m

  JD is joined by Matthew Knies, Toronto Maple Leafs forward (3:09), to discuss what he learned from last years adversity on a team and personal level, what he focused on over the offseason, his first impressions on Gavin McKenna, and how he dealt with the noise of trade rumours this summer. Afterwards, JD and Justin Bourne, co-host of Real Kyper & Bourne (21:05) chat about the surge in 8-year deals signed ahead of NHL training camps and pressure points across the league including Auston Matthews' future, sky-high expectations surrounding the Montreal Canadiens, and Connor McDavid entering his thirties in search of his first Stanley Cup. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
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  Kawhi’s Finally a Raptor, So What Now w/ Es Baraheni + Jays Choke Blame Game 15.09.2026 49m

  JD reacts to the Toronto Blue Jays' series opening 6-5 loss to the Detroit Tigers, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s let down performance, and John Schneider's decision to forego warming up a bullpen arm while Jose Soriano entered the seventh frame (0:00). Then, JD is joined by Es Baraheni, co-host of The NBA Daily Podcast at The Athletic (20:50), together they discuss the Kawhi Leonard trade getting over the finish line, whether there's any questions with the roster fit for the Toronto Raptors, and where Toronto belongs amongst the contender rankings. Afterwards, JD shares his perspective on the Kansas City Chiefs' upset win over the Denver Broncos (47:32). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
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  Vlad Finally Does It, Cease Faith, Kirk Workload and Ernie Stakes w/ Ben Ennis 14.09.2026 49m

  JD and Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show (0:00), discuss the collective sigh of relief from the Toronto Blue Jays' fanbase following Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s first home run of the season at the Rogers Centre, his curtain call moment, their concern level with Dylan Cease's diminished velocity, and whether Ernie Clement's role as an everyday player could be in question beyond this year. Afterwards, JD shares his overreactions from Week 1 in the NFL before wrapping up with "Old News" (39:03). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
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  What’s Still on the Table for the Jays Roster + Slept on Niners, Sleepy Rams 11.09.2026 49m

  JD begins the show (0:00) discussing the San Francisco 49ers upset win over the Los Angeles Rams in Australia, how much blame can be attributed the Rams' last-minute travel plans, sluggish performances from veterans including Matthew Stafford and Myles Garrett, and question marks surrounding the 49ers' durability. Then, JD shares his thoughts on the Toronto Blue Jays entering the weekend (17:52), the mounting pressure on Toronto to make the postseason, and the Blue Jays' path to roster improvement in 2027. Afterwards, JD shares his favourite picks for the rest of Week 1 in the NFL before hitting "What We Missed" with the producers (30:10). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
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  A Jays Tipping Point + NHL Storylines We're Excited For w/ Jackie Redmond 10.09.2026 49m

  JD reacts to the Seattle Seahawks' 13-10 win over the New England Patriots in the NFL season opener, before sharing his thoughts on how the Blue Jays' series loss to the Athletics could haunt them in the playoff race. Then, JD is joined by Jackie Redmond, NHL Reporter on TNT (15:50), to discuss the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers taking drastically different approaches to travel ahead of their matchup in Australia, Gavin McKenna training with Mitch Marner and other NHLers in Muskoka, and the NHL storylines they're most looking forward ahead of training camp. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
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  How Much Pressure Is on the Jays to Make the Playoffs? Bateman’s Future + the Still Underrated Miles 09.09.2026 49m

  JD is joined by Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show (0:00), to discuss the Blue Jays' bounce back win to even their series against the Athletics, the pressure on Toronto to make the playoffs, and Anthony Santander beginning his injury rehab assignment. Afterwards, JD and Ben reflect on the immediate impact Brett Bateman has brought to the Jays' lineup and which aspects of his game are sustainable beyond 2026, before concluding the show with "Old News" (34:50). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
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  Jays Stretch Run Puzzle Pieces w/ Ben Nicholson-Smith + Kawhi Winners and Losers 08.09.2026 49m

  JD returns from vacation and shares his thoughts on the Blue Jays' continued chase for a postseason berth before discussing the punishment handed down by the NBA down to the Los Angeles Clippers and Kawhi Leonard. Then, JD is joined by Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith (16:01) to react to Toronto's let-down performance in their series opener against the Athletics, how John Schneider will manage the starting rotation down the stretch, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. tinkering with his batting mechanics, and the case for Brett Bateman providing more impact on the Blue Jays than Kevin Gausman could have to end the season. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
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  Jays Stretch Run Pressure + Clippers in the Clear w/ Ben Ennis 18.08.2026 49m

  JD is joined by Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show (0:00), to discuss Kyle Tucker's struggles with the Los Angeles Dodgers, if there would be a different level of fan pressure had he signed in Toronto, and sizing up the Tampa Bay Rays ahead of their three game series with the Blue Jays. Then, JD and Ben react to the initial findings from the NBA's investigation of Los Angeles Clippers and Kawhi Leonard (34:06) before wrapping the show with "Old News" (47:09). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
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  Have the Jays Found an Identity? How We Got Here and What Comes Next w/ Ben Nicholson-Smith 17.08.2026 49m

  JD reacts to the Blue Jays' series victory over the New York Yankees before being joined by Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith (9:41) to discuss Toronto's sudden turnaround, their continued reliance on great pitching and defence, contributions from depth pieces, and how sustainable the Jays' success is without an offensive resurgence. Then, JD shares his perspective on Cardinals rookie running back Jeremiyah Love's high-ankle sprain (47:34). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
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  Pivotal Pieces for a Jays Run + Eric Sogard 14.08.2026 48m

  JD shares his perspective on the post-deadline vibe shift in the Blue Jays' clubhouse and fan atmosphere at the Rogers Centre. Then, Eric Sogard, former MLB infielder and Blue Jay joins the show (11:42) to discuss his short but memorable tenure in Toronto, playing alongside rookie Vladimir Guerrero Jr., his involvement with youth development at PRO5 Baseball Academy, and his work with the Czechia national team. Lastly, JD and the producers go through "What We Missed" (39:40). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
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  The Jays Are… Don’t Say It, Just Think It + Overrated/Underrated NFL Camp Storylines w/ James Palmer 13.08.2026 49m

  JD reacts to the Blue Jays' third straight victory over the Red Sox, bringing Toronto within 1.5 games of a Wild Card spot. Then, James Palmer, NFL Insider at Bleacher Report, joins the show (5:33) to discuss NFL training camp storylines including, the Seattle Seahawks looking to repeat with a reshaped roster and coaching staff, concerns with the Kansas City Chiefs' offensive support around Patrick Mahomes, whether now is the right time for the Minnesota Vikings to move on from J.J. McCarthy, and first impressions from the Buffalo Bills under Joe Brady. Afterwards, JD and the producers go through "What We Missed" (40:26). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
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  Jays Hot Streak Theories + Where Cease’s Season Could Rank All-Time w/ Jeff Blair 12.08.2026 48m

  JD is joined by Jeff Blair, co-host of Blair & Barker and Jays Talk (0:00) to put Dylan Cease's Cy Young calibre campaign into perspective across Jays' history, discuss how coming so close to a World Series last year has affected the Jays in 2026, and debate Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s outlook this season. Then, JD and the producers go through "What We Missed" (40:21). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.
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  Rule Rage, the War on WAR and Kawhi Fatigue w/ Blake Murphy 11.08.2026 48m

  JD and Blake Murphy, host of Jays Talk Plus (0:00), share their reaction to the bizarre rulebook review that prompted a 17-minute delay in the seventh inning of the Blue Jays' series opener against the Red Sox, and JD's perspective on the unique experience of being in the ballpark during the incident. Then, JD and Blake parse through what's behind the Jays' recent turnaround before pivoting to a discussion on the flaws with Wins-Above-Replacement as a catch-all stat in 2026. They wrap up the show chatting about the level of fatigue with the NBA's ongoing investigation of the Clippers and Kawhi Leonard (42:31). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.