Episode
AL Slow Starters, Umpire-ABS Communication & John Gibbons!
- Podcast
- Blair & Barker
- Published
- May 7, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 2959
- Processing state
not_requested- Canonical source
- https://www.sportsnet.ca/590/blair-barker/
Actions
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Summary
John Gibbons, bench coach for the Los Angeles Angels, joins Jeff Blair and Kevin Barker to chat about how the role has changed in the modern game. The former Jays skipper also shares what it's like coaching a healthy Mike Trout, how he would've fit into Toronto's 2016 lineup, and his early impressions of the Automated Ball-Strike system. Jeff Passan (22:43), host of Sources Tell Jeff Passan, joins the boys to discuss the slow starts around the American League, if the slump could spark some early-season trades, and how he views the Mariners and Rays. Jeff also details how umpires receive feedback mid-game with the ABS system and the buy-in from veteran officials, along with Tarik Skubal's recovery process. 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.