Highlights: Cleveland sports had a wild week, with dramatic Guardians wins and unexpectedly large home crowds. Jose Ramirez’s playoff consistency contrasts with Francisco Lindor’s limited postseason success since joining the Mets. Jose’s commitment to Cleveland shows in his extension and emotional postgame celebration declaring “This is my home.” Terry Francona’s magic continues with the Reds, despite their lack of standout stats or star players. Stephen Vogt’s appeal to fans shows his understanding of Cleveland’s working-class culture and school-night realities. Guardians pulled off a historic comeback, overcoming a 15.5-game deficit to win the division. The team’s resilience recalls the 1914 Boston Braves, who rallied from 15 games back to win. Guardians starters had a streak of 19 games allowing two or fewer runs, a rare achievement. Baseball’s unpredictability and “never over until it’s over” nature make it a unique test of faith. Progressive Field’s renovations helped attract younger fans, blending tradition with modern fan experiences. Guardians reached 2 million in attendance for back-to-back years, a milestone for a small-market team. Chase DeLauter joins the playoff taxi squad, signaling potential late-season impact if needed. Aidan Hutchinson was left in one-on-one matchups 17 times against Browns swing tackle Cornelius Lucas?. Quinshon Judkins and Harold Fannin Jr. were praised for their impact, especially Judkins’ ability to turn short gains into longer runs. Only one solid performance in four games; a touchdown was allowed on special teams against Detroit. There’s reluctance to reintegrate Watson despite his eligibility to return, with comparisons to awkward social encounters. Both hosts agreed that starting Gabriel wouldn’t solve deeper offensive issues and could expose him to unnecessary risk. Lonzo Ball expressed surprise that Cleveland had water (Lake Erie), highlighting how little some players know about the city before arriving. Cavs media day injury updates on Darius Garland and Max Strus. Uniform Talk: Mixed reactions to the Browns’ “Alpha Dawg” uniforms. Some fans loved them, others (including Terry) did not. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Highlights: The Guardians were down 15.5 games in July and 12.5 games in late August but are now on the verge of overtaking the Tigers. How have they done this? Terry noted the Tigers’ collapse could be historic, while the Guardians risk losing momentum at the finish line. Terry contends the Guardians' defensive improvement coincided with Brayan Rocchio moving to second base and Gabriel Arias to shortstop. José Ramírez rebounded from a rough April and is back to playing B+/A- level defense Bo Naylor’s September surge (.306 AVG, 3 HR, 14 RBI in 14 games) has been a game-changer. Terry speculated Naylor may have finally found the right adjustments after years of tinkering. Listener Max emailed about the Guardians’ momentum, arguing that being red-hot matters more than being the best team on paper, and how far could they go in the playoffs? The Browns’ defense is elite, ranking #1 in yards allowed and #2 in yards per play allowed. The offense is middle-of-the-pack in yards and yards per play, suggesting it’s not as bad as perceived. The Browns’ tackle situation is dire, with Dawand Jones out for the season and Jack Conklin injured. Should the Browns use Adin Huntington as a blocking tight end to help protect Joe Flacco? Quinshon Judkins could see more snaps due to his blocking ability and versatility. Is it time to move field goal kickers back to 9-10 yards to reduce blocks? Terry loves the idea. The Cavs' Kenny Atkinson and Koby Altman previewed the season, and Terry last the latest, including on the injuries to Max Strus and Darius Garland. Garland’s injury is likely turf toe, with a return timeline of 10–20 games. Atkinson praised rookie Jaylon Tyson’s intensity and potential impact. The Cavs have won the third-most games in the NBA over the last three years, behind only Boston and OKC. Their core four (Mobley, Allen, Garland, Mitchell) are all under multi-year contracts and entering their prime. Atkinson wants to unlock more of Evan Mobley’s ball-handling ability to counter pressure defenses. Seven of the 15 players on the roster were second-round picks or undrafted. Why that matters. A listener email about the Browns' uniforms against the Packers. He hates them. Send in your favorite or most hated uniforms and we'll read them on the podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Highlights: The Guardians are still in playoff contention despite injuries and setbacks. Terry reflects on decades of poor performance by the team before the 1990s. Since 2013, under Terry Francona, the Guardians have had only two losing seasons. Stephen Vogt has matched Francona’s win total through his first 310 games. The team’s consistent competitiveness is often underappreciated by fans. Guardians are three games out of the wild card with 13 games left. Terry praises MLB’s expanded playoff format for keeping more teams relevant. Guardians’ pitching depth continues to be a strength despite injuries. Terry discusses the impact of trades, especially the one involving Mike Clevinger. Austin Hedges is praised for his leadership and handling of pitchers, despite poor hitting. Terry supports the six-man rotation as a way to preserve pitchers’ arms. Parker Messick leads the team in ERA; other young pitchers are contributing well. Jose Ramirez is lauded for his leadership and playing through injuries. Brian Rocchio’s move to second base has improved the infield defense. Terry suggests Travis Bazzana could be moved to the outfield to keep Rocchio at second. The Guardians’ remaining schedule includes games against Detroit, Minnesota, and Texas. Terry and David transition to discussing the Browns’ embarrassing loss to the Ravens. Joe Flacco struggled, and the game plan didn’t help; coaching decisions are questioned. Injuries and poor performance from high-paid players like Jack Conklin and Denzel Ward are highlighted. Terry defends Myles Garrett’s performance amid fan criticism. Browns’ defense ranks seventh in limiting explosive plays; Packers rank first. Concerns raised about offensive play-calling and lack of deception. Terry warns against rushing to bench Flacco after one bad game. Baker Mayfield’s resurgence with Tampa Bay sparks debate about his time in Cleveland. Terry believes the Browns mishandled Baker’s injury and departure. The Watson trade is described as a franchise-altering decision with long-term consequences. Terry and David discuss the Cavs’ offseason workouts and injury challenges. Cavs aim to improve endurance and toughness to match teams like Indiana and OKC. Terry shares insights on player rotations and injury recovery strategies. The podcast wraps with listener emails about sports nicknames and historical anecdotes. Terry mentions his column on Antietam and reflections on historical figures like Jesse Reno. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Highlights: Defense Shines: The Browns' defense was the standout, with strong halftime adjustments by Schwartz. Flacco’s Performance: Joe Flacco ran the offense effectively, showing poise despite his age. Rookie Impact: Harold Fannin Jr. and Dylan Sampson contributed significantly in short-passing schemes. Greg Newsome’s Contract Year: Newsome had a strong showing against a top-tier receiving corps. Carson Schwesinger’s Debut: The rookie linebacker posted 8 tackles and a 90.0 PFF grade. Quinshon Judkins Signed: His aggressive running style is expected to elevate the Browns’ ground game. Flacco’s Interceptions: Both were considered “safe” throws, not poor decisions. Offensive Line Concerns: Jack Conklin’s durability and performance are worries. Dawand Jones Struggles: Four penalties and poor grading raise questions about his readiness. Lack of Takeaways: The Browns again failed to force turnovers, continuing last season’s trend. Andre Szmyt’s Debut: Strong start but missed two key kicks in the second half. Historical Perspective: Terry discusses past Browns kickers and the evolution of expectations. Potential new kickers for the Browns Phil Dawson’s Legacy: Compared to current standards, Dawson’s early career stats wouldn’t cut it today. Kicker Turnover: Since 2020, the Browns have cycled through eight kickers; 15 since Dawson left in 2012. Guardians Still Fighting: Despite two major losing streaks, they remain in playoff contention. Brian Rocchio’s Growth: Improved batting average and elite defense at second base. Kyle Manzardo’s Emergence: Batting .281 with 10 HRs since the All-Star break; improving defensively. 2024 MLB Draft Class Check-In: Updates on Travis Bazzana and other top picks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Highlights: Our Browns predictions -- for this season, and for Sunday's opener vs. the Bengals. Uncertainty around Quinshon Judkins due to contract and legal issues. Joe Flacco will start; here's what that might look like; The Browns' emphasis on returning to zone blocking and balanced offense. Concerns about secondary injuries, especially Denzel Ward. A listener presents a scenario: How good would the Browns be with Joe Burrow at QB? Critique of past offensive schemes and coaching missteps. Why new OL coach Mike Bloomgren and a return to zone blocking will matter when the Browns win Sunday (as both Terry and David predict). The Micah Parsons trade compared to Browns retaining Myles Garrett. Browns aim to stay competitive without full rebuild. Terry's take on Arch Manning, and Bill Belichick. Could the kicking game give the Browns 2-3 more wins? A listener wonders. The continued impact of suspensions to Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz. Underperformance of young position players. Prospects watch: Kyle Manzardo, Angel Martinez, Ralphy Velazquez, Josh Hartle, and Cooper Ingle. Travis Bazzana: A listener sends in a feel-good story. A listener email about some of his favorite Cleveland sports nicknames of years past. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Highlights: Browns cut day: Key decisions and their impact on the roster. Terry's take on the kicking situation now that the Browns have cut Dustin Hopkins. Inside the Browns' roster moves and Guardians' struggles. Discussing Kenny Pickett's trade to the Raiders and its implications. Exploring how gambling affects players and teams. Terry Pluto on the Browns' need for a reliable kicker. Share Browns predictions for 2025: Email us at sports@cleveland.com, and put "Terry's Talkin'" in the subject line. How will the Browns' QB room work with Joe Flacco and two rookies. Guardians' losing streak: What it means for the season. Why the Rays couldn't have come to town at a worse time for the Guardians and their fans. Listener emails about the investigation of Luis Ortiz and Emmanuel Clase, and the future of sports gambling and its implications. A listener says it's time to bring back great sports nicknames. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Highlights: Discussion on Joe Flacco being named the Browns' starting quarterback. Insights into the Browns' strategy and decision-making process. Analysis of player performances and expectations for the season. What will the Flacco offense look like in 2025? Discussion on the Guardians' strategy of rotating players in different positions. Terry's quick look at Guardians prospects. A debate: Is Brayan Rocchio as good as Andres Gimenez right now? And how does he compare to 2023 Gimenez? Who Jaylon Tyson of the Cavs is drawing comparisons to. A listener email about "winning trades" and whether wishing ill of players who go to other teams is bad karma. Subscribe to Terry's weekly newsletter for exclusive insights and updates. Visit cleveland.com/pluto and click the blue bar at the top to sign up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This episode covers the Guardians' playoff prospects, insights from the Browns' preseason games, and a quick look at what Terry's hearing about the Cavs. Plus, delve into the world of sports journalism and enjoy a historical book recommendation. Highlights: Analysis of the Guardians' recent performance and playoff chances. Discussion on key players like Gavin Williams and their impact on the team's success. Insights into the team's strategy and upcoming games against Miami and the Braves. Recap of the Browns' preseason game against the Panthers. Shedeur Sanders' impressive debut and what it means for the team's future. The importance of preseason games in preparing for the regular season. Discussion on the team's roster changes and key players to watch. Insights into the team's strategy for the upcoming season. The role of sports journalists in shaping public perception. Reflections on the camaraderie and competition among sports writers. A look at the history of sports journalism in Cleveland. "Midnight on the Potomac" by Scott Ellsworth. A captivating narrative of the last year of the Civil War and the Lincoln assassination. Insights into the historical context and the author's unique perspective. Subscribe to Terry's newsletter for exclusive insights at cleveland.com/pluto. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Highlights: David Campbell and Terry Pluto discuss the implications of Emmanuel Clase being placed on leave due to an MLB betting investigation, which also involves Luis Ortiz. The ongoing investigation is expected to last until at least August 31, raising concerns about the Guardians' playoff chances. Emails from fans expressing their discontent with the current state of sports gambling and its impact on players and the integrity of the game. Pluto emphasizes that sports gambling is different from other forms of gambling, as it appeals to sports fans who believe they can beat the odds. The conversation touches on the dangers of micro bets, which allow wagering on specific plays, and the potential for exploitation in both professional and college sports. The Guardians face tough decisions regarding trades, particularly with Carlos Santana and Shane Bieber, as the trade deadline approaches. Pluto believes the Guardians' season is nearly over, estimating a "95.9% chance" of that outcome. The discussion includes the potential impact of Clase's absence on the team and the financial implications of his contract if he faces a ban. The future of players like Shane Bieber, who recently showed promise in a rehab start, and whether he could be trade bait. Do the Cavs need another "tough guy"? A listener is asking. How many wins is a "good season" for the 2025 Browns? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Highlights: Jose Ramirez: Appreciating in real time a Hall of Fame career in the making; Stephen Kwan and Jose Ramirez: All-Star Decisions and why Terry is fine with what they did; Angel Martinez: Just what the Guardians need right now; Luis Ortiz investigation drags on, which is not a good sign; What will the Browns do about their running game? A listener asks: Does the Browns QB matter this year with as weak ias the offense is projected to be? Cavs Summer League: What did Terry learn? More listener tributes to Tom Hamilton as he prepares to receive the Ford C. Frick Award at the Baseball Hall of Fame on Saturday. And the best Tom Hamilton poem you'll ever hear. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Highlights: Paul Hoynes' Recognition: Paul Hoynes is a finalist for the Baseball Writers Association of America Career Excellence Award, akin to a Hall of Fame nomination. Guardians' Performance: The Guardians experienced a long losing streak followed by a winning streak, entering the All-Star break with a 46-49 record. Trade Discussions: The conversation touches on the Guardians' trade strategies, including the impact of trading Josh Naylor and the potential of players like Slade Cecconi. Biggest surprises and disappointments for the Guardians so far. Draft Strategy: The Guardians' recent draft focused on acquiring big, powerful hitters, reflecting an organizational need for more home run potential. Terry's impressions of the Cavs so far in Summer League. And who is Nae’Qwan Tomlin? Larry Doby's Legacy: A listener suggests honoring Larry Doby's contributions to baseball by having players wear his number, similar to Jackie Robinson Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Highlights: The Cavs made significant trades to improve their roster. Are they better? Ty Jerome's contract with the Grizzlies surprised many fans. The WNBA is returning to Cleveland, marking a significant milestone. Terry discusses why Joe Tait would have loved the news. Fans email in, and they are down about the Guardians, and especially with their sloppy play in the field. The Guardians need to make strategic moves before the trade deadline: What can they do? Who should stay and go? Browns training camp is approaching, with excitement around new players, especially one rookie. Larry Doby's legacy is crucial in understanding Cleveland's sports history, and Terry argues that Doby had it harder than Jackie Robinson did with the Dodgers. More listener stories about Tom Hamilton as his Baseball Hall of Fame weekend approaches later this month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Highlights: 00:06 Guardians' Trade Deadline Dilemma 11:11 Evaluating Young Talent and Prospects 17:17 The Championship Window and Jose Ramirez's Impact 21:26 Analyzing Player Performance: Rocchio vs. Arias 25:33 Trade Insights: Evaluating Gimenez and Ortiz 29:37 The Guardians' Missing Pieces: Naylor's Impact 32:45 Upcoming Challenges: Guardians' Schedule and Expectations 35:05 A New Era for the Cavs: Injuries and Salary Cap Dynamics 40:06 Ty Jerome's Future: Should the Cavs Commit? 45:08 Reflections on the Thunder's Championship and Coaching Dynamics 47:27 Behind the Scenes of NBA Analysis 49:59 Cavs vs. OKC: A Future Rivalry? 53:01 Draft Insights: Cooper Flagg and Future Stars 55:28 NFL Contracts: The Deshaun Watson Effect 01:05:14 Tom Hamilton: A Cleveland Treasure Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Highlights: The Guardians are currently at a pivotal point in their season, sitting at .500. Trade discussions are heating up, with players like Carlos Santana and Emmanuel Clase being considered. Terry Pluto suggests the Guardians should stay the course for now and not rush into trades. The Tigers' turnaround last season serves as a potential model for the Guardians. The Guardians lack a clear identity this season, struggling in both pitching and hitting. Player performance in the minors does not always translate to success in the majors. Listener email asks about the Guardians' logjam at the designated hitter position with David Fry, Carlos Santana and Kyle Manzardo. A listener asks: Why can't the Guardians develop hitting stars as well as pitching stars? Darius Garland's injury complicates his trade value and future with the Cavs. The Cavs may not make significant moves this offseason due to Garland's situation. Should the Cavs consider bringing Jarrett Allen off the bench? A listener asks: How about shortening NBA games to 40 minutes? The Cleveland Browns have had 40 quarterbacks since 1999. Here's who's tied Deshaun Watson with 19 games. Nick Chubb has a classy departure to Houston. The first of many listener emails about Tom Hamilton as his Hall of Fame Weekend in Cooperstown approaches next month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Highlights: What Terry saw on Wednesday in Berea at Browns OTAs Joe Flacco's experience shines during OTAs. Why there's no reason to rush the rookies Jim Schwartz says that for Myles Garrett, "Great power comes with great responsibility." A listener email about Kenny Pickett's past controversy about not dressing for a game in Pittsburgh. Mason Graham has "meat on the bone," Schwartz says. Congratulations to Mary Kay Cabot for being named winner of the prestigious Bill Nunn Award D.J. Moore, body language and who in Cleveland has exhibited the best and worst body language in recent years. Shane Bieber's return could be a turning point for the Guardians. Did the Guardians leave Tanner Bibee in too long Tuesday night vs. the Yankees? What Cavs fans should take from the NBA Finals matchup this week. A listener proposes a blockbuster Cavs-Bucks trade. What does Terry think? A listener brings up Wyoming author CJ Box, whose writing brings the Wyoming landscape to life, making it a character in his stories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Highlights: Terry shares highlights from his recent trip to Wyoming. Cavs fans are closely watching the Pacers-Knicks series for insights on their own team. The importance of team toughness. Officiating in the playoffs is inconsistent and affects gameplay. Kenny Atkinson's coaching style is seen as a positive change. Cavs practices should be more physical to prepare for playoffs. Donovan Mitchell's leadership role: What should it be next season? Pressure defense is crucial. Can the Cavs create it?. Even Magic Johnson said it: No point guard enjoys being pressured during a game. A Terry story about former Cav Sean Kemp'. Who knew: Terry was a playwright. The Guardians are making strategic player moves. The Guardians' play-everyone philosophy is under scrutiny. The time is long past for the Guardians to promote C.J. Kayfus. The upcoming series against the Angels and Yankees is crucial for the Guardians. Our 2 biggest questions about the Browns during OTAs. Why the tight ends may play a larger role in the offense this year. And Terry's book recommendation for this week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Highlights: The Cavs faced significant challenges in the playoffs due to injuries and coaching decisions, but listeners have some critiques of Kenny Atkinson's coaching during the playoff series against Indiana. The reliance on Darius Garland for ball handling exposed weaknesses in the Cavs' offense. The Cavs need to develop more mental toughness to handle playoff pressure. How can they do that? Injuries to key players like Garland and Mobley impacted the Cavs' performance. Should the playoffs be officiated differently than the regular season? The Pacers' style of play highlighted the Cavs' weaknesses in handling pressure. A listener asks: Can the 0-16 rebuild era tell us anything about the Browns a decade later? The Guardians are struggling. Here are some moves to expect soon, maybe as soon as the next couple of days. Send in your Tom Hamilton stories as he prepares to enter the Baseball Hall of Fame in late July. You can email those to sports@cleveland.com and put "Terry's Talkin'" in the subject line. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Highlights: Donovan Mitchell expressed deep disappointment after the Cavs' playoff exit. Mitchell's commitment to the team is evident and reassuring for fans. The Cavs' playoff performance was marred by injuries and overconfidence. Darius Garland's inconsistency raises questions about his playoff readiness. The team needs to address the backcourt dynamics moving forward. Jared Allen's performance was inconsistent and needs improvement. Injuries played a role, but the Cavs could have won more games. The emotional pressure of the playoffs affected player performances. The Cavs must build around Mitchell to enhance their chances in future playoffs. The Cavaliers are retooling their strategy to focus on three-point shooting. Darius Garland's playoff performance has raised concerns among fans. The backcourt dynamics between Mitchell and Garland may need re-evaluation. The Cavaliers have trade value in their roster, particularly with Jared Allen. The Browns' draft strategy was measured. Here's what Terry has been hearing. Dylan Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders came at the times the Browns thought appropriate in the draft, as they were determined not to jump too soon. The importance of having depth in the running back position is emphasized. Quarterback development requires significant adaptation to new systems. The pressure to perform is high for new players in the NFL. Terry on what he sees going down with the Guardians in the next month or so. A listener asks about how the recent MLB rule changes are being received a few years after their adaptation. The reinstatement of players like Pete Rose opens discussions about their legacies. Some listener emails about radio baseball, Ten-Cent Beer Night, and Cleveland's memorable comeback against Seattle in the playoffs in the 1990s. A request for listeners to send in their favorite stories or experiences about Guardians play-by-play voice Tom Hamilton. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Highlights: The Cavs' most devastating loss ever? What the Cavs can try to win Game 3 vs. the Pacers; Browns' Quarterback Situation: How will it work? Analyzing the Jaguars-Browns trade from the draft; The Future of Nick Chubb Quarterback Depth Chart Dynamics Evaluating Kenny Pickett's Potential How good is the offensive line? Jose Ramirez's 250/250 and what it means A listener asks: Why not try a four-man pitching rotation? Why Kenny Pickett should start The Browns are undergoing a significant reset in their strategy Running backs and what they mean for the 2025 Browns; Terry's next Guardians prospect to watch when it comes to being promoted to the Majors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Highlights: 00:00 Cavs' Historic Playoff Sweep 06:57 The Cavs Team Identity and Impressive Depth 19:03 Donovan Mitchell's Leadership and Team Dynamics 25:10 Looking Ahead in the Playoffs 30:44 Browns Draft: Did What they Did Make Sense? 34:11 Why They Took 2 Running Backs 39:34 What Was Missing in the Browns' Draft 51:39 Shedeur Sanders vs. Dillon Gabriel and the veteran QBs 01:05:45 Fan Emails and Expectations for the Browns 01:11:12 The Guardians' Banged-Up Pitching Staff 01:18:15 Listener Emails about listening to games in years past; and a question from Terry about his favorite Parma sports memories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices