On Friar, A San Diego Sportswrap Podcast

A.J. Preller shocked everyone again, this time with news that he's lured Bob Melvin away from Oakland to take over the Padres. MLB reporter Jessica Kleinschmidt spent the last three seasons covering the A's and helped the guys get to know Melvin. Why did Oakland let him go, and why was he ready to leave? What will his approach be with the club's big personalities? What's his managerial style, and is criticism of his bullpen use warranted? He's won, but why hasn't he won even more? And what are his Zooms like? Jess answered these important questions and many others.To join the #OnFriar conversation, tweet your Padres or San Diego sports thoughts and questions to Darnay (@DarnayTripp) and Derek (@DerekNBCSD).Catch NBC 7's San Diego Padres analysis at NBC7.com/OnFriar and all sports coverage at NBC7.com/SportsWrap. SportsWrap's weekly TV show airs Sunday night on NBC 7 San Diego at 11:35pm.

This episode was published minutes before news broke of the Padres hiring Bob Melvin. For insight and our reaction check out the special emergency episode. In this one Derek and Darnay discuss the hire of Ruben Niebla a surprising move that has promise (3:54). The guys weigh in on a managerial search that's curious both in the names that have and haven't entered the mix (10:25). How does Ozzie Guillen fit? Thoughts on the World Series winner and how the history of he and other candidates would seemingly make for an odd fit (21:16). Darnay offers a word of advice on tracking Preller's maneuvers (32:22). Where's Bruce Bochy? Derek brings up his notable absence (38:40), before Darnay announces that his indefinite leave from MacKenzie Gore watch (41:42).To join the #OnFriar conversation, tweet your Padres or San Diego sports thoughts and questions to Darnay (@DarnayTripp) and Derek (@DerekNBCSD).Catch NBC 7's San Diego Padres analysis at NBC7.com/OnFriar and all sports coverage at NBC7.com/SportsWrap. SportsWrap'

The Padres need a new skipper. They sure don't seem to be in a hurry to find one. In the latest OnFriar Podcast, Derek and Todd discuss what's taking them so long and give reasons why they might be missing out on some good candidates. Plus, a MacKenzie Gore update and a look at why the Friars have been struggling to develop young pitchers.

The Padres have been without a manager for more than a week, so how is the search shaping up? Derek and Darnay discuss some early candidates including one guy who almost seems like too obvious of a pick. What impact does the Cardinals' sudden decision have on the Padres' search? And what might it mean for Skip Schumaker? If Aaron Boone becomes available is a homecoming a no-brainer? Derek shares two more names that have his attention. Then the guys rate their five top candidates, then find themselves comparing managers on the market to college football's Power 5.To join the #OnFriar conversation, tweet your Padres or San Diego sports thoughts and questions to Darnay (@DarnayTripp) and Derek (@DerekNBCSD).Catch NBC 7's San Diego Padres analysis at NBC7.com/OnFriar and all sports coverage at NBC7.com/SportsWrap. SportsWrap's weekly TV show airs Sunday night on NBC 7 San Diego at 11:35pm.

The search for a new manager is - once again - on. Derek and Darnay explain how the delay in the decision and the messaging that followed were cause for concern (2:58). Tingler's staff is probably gone, but there are a few guys who might be worth bringing back (7:59). A.J. Preller's address exposed issues that could very easily persist with the next regime (12:54). Plus, the guys take a look at some potential replacements beyond the crop of experienced skippers that immediately come to mind (20:21), including one San Diego guy in search of a second straight World Series ring.To join the #OnFriar conversation, tweet your Padres or San Diego sports thoughts and questions to Darnay (@DarnayTripp) and Derek (@DerekNBCSD).Catch NBC 7's San Diego Padres analysis at NBC7.com/OnFriar and all sports coverage at NBC7.com/SportsWrap. SportsWrap's weekly TV show airs Sunday night on NBC 7 San Diego at 11:35pm.

The move we've expected for weeks became official Wednesday: A.J. Preller fired Jayce Tingler. Darnay and Todd examine the news in a bonus episode. What ultimately led Preller to the decision? One common refrain from the Padres President of Baseball Operations seemingly directs responsibility back in his own direction. Hear from Preller what shortcoming stuck out this season, and why they ultimately decided a change in leadership was necessary. What does this mean for Preller's future? And what type of manager should he pursue?To join the #OnFriar conversation, tweet your Padres or San Diego sports thoughts and questions to Darnay (@DarnayTripp) and Derek (@DerekNBCSD).Catch NBC 7's San Diego Padres analysis at NBC7.com/OnFriar and all sports coverage at NBC7.com/SportsWrap. SportsWrap's weekly TV show airs Sunday night on NBC 7 San Diego at 11:35pm.

The Padres have discovered depths of rock bottom we never knew existed. So, now what? Derek and Darnay discuss the obvious move that should immediately follow Game 162, then speculate what their next steps look like. Will A.J. Preller overthink the managerial decision and stay on brand, or quickly move on to one of the obvious candidates on the market? And does this roster just need some tinkering or a more dramatic overhaul? Plus Derek has some outside-the-box options in mind for the next coaching staff.To join the #OnFriar conversation, tweet your Padres or San Diego sports thoughts and questions to Darnay (@DarnayTripp) and Derek (@DerekNBCSD).Catch NBC 7's San Diego Padres analysis at NBC7.com/OnFriar and all sports coverage at NBC7.com/SportsWrap. SportsWrap's weekly TV show airs Sunday night on NBC 7 San Diego at 11:35pm.

The Padres underachieved for most of the year then played themselves out of a playoff spot. Now what? Derek and Darnay take a look at where things stand after an extra innings win over the Giants (1:19), before turning to the primary topics at hand: The futures of Jayce Tingler (7:57) and A.J. Preller (16:26) with the San Diego Padres. Should they be brought back? And under what circumstances? Do you trust Preller to hire another manager? The guys share their thoughts (23:00). And now that some long-standing issues have caught up to the club, maybe it's worth wondering if the Padres were really any good to begin with (37:25). To join the #OnFriar conversation, tweet your Padres or San Diego sports thoughts and questions to Darnay (@DarnayTripp) and Derek (@DerekNBCSD).Catch NBC 7's San Diego Padres analysis at NBC7.com/OnFriar and all sports coverage at NBC7.com/SportsWrap. SportsWrap's weekly TV show airs Sunday night on NBC 7 San Diego at 11:35pm.

Another high stakes showdown with St. Louis. Who better to handicap the series and this compelling playoff race than Katie Woo of The Athletic. The Cardinals beat writer explains the parallels between the Padres and Cardinals seasons, and how St. Louis has handled their ups and downs. How much juice does the clubs' recent history lend to this meeting? And what players will the Friar Faithful surely tire of by the end of the weekend? Plus, Katie shares her outlook on a crowded Wild Card race and why she thinks Game 163 is in our future.To join the #OnFriar conversation, tweet your Padres or San Diego sports thoughts and questions to Darnay (@DarnayTripp) and Derek (@DerekNBCSD).Catch NBC 7's San Diego Padres analysis at NBC7.com/OnFriar and all sports coverage at NBC7.com/SportsWrap. SportsWrap's weekly TV show airs Sunday night on NBC 7 San Diego at 11:35pm.

It all comes down to the next three weeks, and a lot could ride on the 10-game road trip in front of the Padres. Derek and Darnay discuss the challenges ahead which include visits to the Dodgers and Giants (2:35). They assess the play of Eric Hosmer and what the ideal everyday lineup looks like (17:03). Tatis says he doesn't want shoulder surgery - is this news? The guys weigh in on the decision ahead (27:25). They wrap up with another edition of Three Up, Three Down featuring Pagan, offensive inconsistency, Manny Hustle and that throw from Tatis (33:55).To join the #OnFriar conversation, tweet your Padres or San Diego sports thoughts and questions to Darnay (@DarnayTripp) and Derek (@DerekNBCSD).Catch NBC 7's San Diego Padres analysis at NBC7.com/OnFriar and all sports coverage at NBC7.com/SportsWrap. SportsWrap's weekly TV show airs Sunday night on NBC 7 San Diego at 11:35pm.

September Call-Ups ain't what they used to be, but it's a good excuse to talk Padres prospects. Derek and Darnay caught up with two guys who know them best: John Conniff and Mark Wilkens of MadFriars. They discuss Robert Hassell on the heels of a three-homer performance (6:04), and break down another intriguing outfield talent in James Wood (17:35). MacKenzie Gore is pitching again, any chance he joins the Padres this season? The guys assess the promising pitching prospect (24:26). They talk about CJ Abrams phenomenal start to 2021 and where he fits in the Padres' plans (38:38). And what about Luis Campusano? The guys share their outlook on his season and path to the bigs (48:28). This two-part episode also features Derek's chat with Padres CEO Erik Greupner about the 2021 season, ticket sales, and the response of fans in their return to Petco Park (1:05:42).To join the #OnFriar conversation, tweet your Padres or San Diego sports thoughts and questions to Darnay (@DarnayTripp) and Derek (@DerekNBCSD).Catch NB

Having slept off a late night gut punch loss to the Dodgers, Derek and Darnay get some words of encouragement from Eno Sarris of The Athletic. They discuss reasons for hope amid the team's slump (1:05). Eno shares his insight on why a loaded Padres lineup has struggled to produce (6:20), as well as the presence of Adam Frazier and Eric Hosmer after the deadline (14:24). Eno has concerns about the organization's pitching development (18:14). The guys chat about Larry Rothschild, coaching styles and the direction the Padres could go from here (22:40).To join the #OnFriar conversation, tweet your Padres or San Diego sports thoughts and questions to Darnay (@DarnayTripp) and Derek (@DerekNBCSD).Catch NBC 7's San Diego Padres analysis at NBC7.com/OnFriar and all sports coverage at NBC7.com/SportsWrap. SportsWrap's weekly TV show airs Sunday night on NBC 7 San Diego at 11:35pm.

Is this rock bottom? We sure hope so. The Padres are playing lousy baseball, the Wild Card standings have tightened, and it's hard to feel confident about the weeks ahead. Derek and Darnay assess the damage, a concerning pitching situation, offensive struggles, and a reality facing the club that is quite different from what we expected.To join the #OnFriar conversation, tweet your Padres or San Diego sports thoughts and questions to Darnay (@DarnayTripp) and Derek (@DerekNBCSD).Catch NBC 7's San Diego Padres analysis at NBC7.com/OnFriar and all sports coverage at NBC7.com/SportsWrap. SportsWrap's weekly TV show airs Sunday night on NBC 7 San Diego at 11:35pm.

The Padres have had Fernando Tatis Jr. working in the outfield. Is that a good idea or not? The OnFriar Podcast looks at the pros and cons of a superstar position change and comes up with a rule change to try and make baseball more exciting.

The guys are joined by Jessica Kleinschmidt of NBC Sports Bay Area to assess the club following injuries, an underwhelming trade deadline and more so-so play. They share some overreactions to a tough week (2:11). What's the most likely key to success or source of shortcoming for the Friars in October? Jess weighs in (8:41). The bullpen has been mostly good - they discuss how that could factor into the team's approach (10:54). Can we fast forward to late August? Some thoughts on the NL West games that lie ahead and an opportunity for the Padres to pick up wins in the meantime (17:38). Jess shares her insight on the Giants and what's triggered their surprising season (21:32).To join the #OnFriar conversation, tweet your Padres or San Diego sports thoughts and questions to Darnay (@DarnayTripp) and Derek (@DerekNBCSD).Catch NBC 7's San Diego Padres analysis at NBC7.com/OnFriar and all sports coverage at NBC7.com/SportsWrap. SportsWrap's weekly TV show airs Sunday night on NBC 7 San Diego at 11:35pm.

The eve of the 2021 MLB Trade Deadline brought complete and utter mayhem, and a cruel rollercoaster ride for the Friar Faithful. Max Scherzer was a Padre, and then he wasn't. Derek and Darnay relive the saga and react to news of the Dodgers swiping the Nationals ace and bringing in another major talent in the process. To join the #OnFriar conversation, tweet your Padres or San Diego sports thoughts and questions to Darnay (@DarnayTripp) and Derek (@DerekNBCSD).Catch NBC 7's San Diego Padres analysis at NBC7.com/OnFriar and all sports coverage at NBC7.com/SportsWrap. SportsWrap's weekly TV show airs Sunday night on NBC 7 San Diego at 11:35pm.

With a little over a week to go until the Trade Deadline mercifully arrives Derek and Darnay look back at the last week, and ahead at potential moves that will shape the Padres for the home stretch of 2021. The guys assess the start of the second half, performances from starting pitchers, and the state of the roster heading into the deadline (1:33). There are some enticing names on the market, but at what cost? Darnay asks Derek which prospects he'd be willing to part with (24:18). After a few thoughts on everyone's favorite trade target they do a round of Three Up, Three Down featuring rain, Jurickson Profar and one golden haired infielder (43:20). To join the #OnFriar conversation, tweet your Padres or San Diego sports thoughts and questions to Darnay (@DarnayTripp) and Derek (@DerekNBCSD).Catch NBC 7's San Diego Padres analysis at NBC7.com/OnFriar and all sports coverage at NBC7.com/SportsWrap. SportsWrap's weekly TV show airs Sunday night on NBC 7 San Diego at 11:35pm.

The dust has settled on the All-Star break and the second half is upon us. Derek and Darnay take inventory of the ups and downs so far in 2021 - from the bullpen to struggling stars, health issues and second year studs. After assessing the good and bad from the first half they discuss the position the Padres are in and what needs to be done (looking at you A.J.) to get the team where everyone expected them to be come October.To join the #OnFriar conversation, tweet your Padres or San Diego sports thoughts and questions to Darnay (@DarnayTripp) and Derek (@DerekNBCSD).Catch NBC 7's San Diego Padres analysis at NBC7.com/OnFriar and all sports coverage at NBC7.com/SportsWrap. SportsWrap's weekly TV show airs Sunday night on NBC 7 San Diego at 11:35pm.

It was the most improbable home run in San Diego Padres history. Daniel Camarena, a relief pitcher, hit a grand slam off future Hall of Famer Max Scherzer in what turned out to be the biggest comeback in Friars history. In a special episode of the OnFriar Podcast we talk with Daniel's brother Louie, who explains how tragedy led to triumph for a true San Diego baseball family.

Mike Petriello of MLB.com joins the guys to offer his insight on All-Star festivities and the Padres' needs at the deadline. First they get into the Tatis-less Home Run Derby (1:32), before discussing the otherworldly season Shohei Ohtani is having (7:58). What are the Padres' biggest needs at the trade deadline? Mike weighs in, with some thoughts on a few names that are often brought up by the Friar Faithful (11:44). Then they shift their focus to the All-Star Game, players headed to Coors Field and Manny's snub (21:17). Where is Tatis on the list of players you'd pay to see? Mike ranks the star shortstop and projects the NL MVP race (36:29). The guys discuss the National League West and the exciting finish to the regular season that could be on the way (44:35). We wrap up by hearing from Padres reliever Pierce Johnson on Tatis' latest defensive gem, the swag chain, bullpen use and breaking balls (51:01).To join the #OnFriar conversation, tweet your Padres or San Diego sports thoughts and questions to Darnay