Locked On Podcast Network, Connor Thomas
Locked On Phillies podcast is your daily ticket to stay ahead of the game and the first to know the latest news, analysis, and insider info for the Philadelphia Phillies and Major League Baseball. Hosted by Connor Thomas, an on air personality at 97.5 The Fanatic and 2016 graduate of Washington College, where he was a relief pitcher, the Locked On Phillies podcast provides your daily Phillies fix with expert, local analysis, and coverage of all aspects of the Phillies franchise. Locked On Phillies takes you beyond the scoreboard for the inside scoops on the biggest stories from within the Phillies locker room and all over MLB. The Locked On Phillies podcast is part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.
3d ago
The Philadelphia Phillies spark outrage with the Matt Strahm trade to the Kansas City Royals—was this just a salary dump or the first move in a bigger plan? Connor Thomas tears into the front office’s decision, questioning whether friction with management justified losing a durable left-handed All-Star reliever for minimal return. With Brad Keller’s signing and rumors swirling, is Philadelphia setting up for a major roster shakeup or just cutting costs while the Dodgers stack their World Series roster? Topics hit hard: where the $7 million in freed payroll could go, from re-signing J.T. Realmuto to pursuing outfield upgrades like Harrison Bader. Plus, hear fan reactions and poll results on the Phillies’ championship contention, and fiery debate over whether Dave Dombrowski’s moves show true ambition. Will the Phillies step up amid NL arms races or risk falling behind this offseason? 0:00 – Matt Strahm Trade Reaction Connor Thomas breaks down the Philadelphia Phillies trading Matt Strahm to the Kansas City Royals. He explains why the move happened, the underlying friction between Strahm and the organization, and why—unless it leads to a big move—he hates this salary-dump trade. 13:22 – Phillies Payroll & Offseason Options Discussion shifts to what the Phillies can do with the roughly $7M saved from the trade. Connor Thomas lays out potential moves, like re-signing JT Realmuto, possible outfield/infielder upgrades, and what would constitute a good vs. bad use of the freed-up payroll. 24:03 – Fan Reactions & Contender Status The episode transitions to fan reactions via the “Off the Poll” segment, examining whether fans believe the Phillies have done enough to remain World Series contenders. Connor Thomas compares the current roster to last year, gives his own opinion, and talks about the front office’s mindset versus fans’ expectations. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio , access to our members-only Discord , and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER : 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
5d ago
The Philadelphia Phillies land hard-throwing righty Brad Keller to upgrade their bullpen, signaling a new era of late-inning dominance. Can Dave Dombrowski’s latest moves finally give the Phillies the relief depth they've been lacking—and will the revamped bullpen be enough to keep up with NL rivals like the Dodgers? Connor Thomas breaks down Keller’s fit and contract, projects the new bullpen hierarchy alongside Jose Alvarado and Jhoan Duran, and questions the stability of Philadelphia’s outfield after Adolis Garcia’s addition. The episode tackles Dave Dombrowski’s surprising statements about the outfield’s readiness, weighs potential trade scenarios involving Nick Castellanos, and examines options at catcher and second base. As the Phillies’ offseason heats up, Connor Thomas asks: Has Philadelphia done enough to stay in the World Series hunt, or are crucial roster holes still unaddressed? 0:00 — Phillies Sign Brad Keller Connor Thomas breaks down the Phillies’ impactful bullpen addition, Brad Keller. He covers Keller’s contract, pitching profile, and fit within the team’s high-leverage relief strategy. 10:26 — Dombrowski’s Outfield Comments Discussion shifts to Dave Dombrowski’s recent remarks about the Phillies outfield being “pretty much set” after the Adolis Garcia move. Connor Thomas analyzes the plan, possible platoon options, and whether fans should trust the front office statements. 22:48 — What’s Left This Offseason Connor Thomas explores what else the Phillies need to address. Focus on catcher (J.T. Realmuto), possible trades (Nick Castellanos), and minor tweaks remaining before spring training. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio , access to our members-only Discord , and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER : 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Dec 15
The Philadelphia Phillies shake up their outfield, signing Adolis García to a one-year, $10 million deal—upping defensive prowess and right-handed power at Citizens Bank Park. Could this bold addition signal the end of Nick Castellanos’s tenure with the team and reshape the Phillies’ playoff ambitions? Connor Thomas breaks down García’s fit in right field, what it means for Brandon Marsh and top prospect Justin Crawford, and why Castellanos’s contract could complicate trade scenarios. The episode digs into potential platoon strategies, analyzes the club’s evolving defensive alignment, and tackles listener questions about Harrison Bader’s free agency. With Dave Dombrowski rolling the dice on power and fielding upgrades, all eyes are on the Phillies’ next lineup moves and their pursuit of another deep postseason run. 0:00 – Phillies Sign Adolis Garcia Connor Thomas breaks down the Phillies signing Adolis Garcia to a one-year, $10 million deal, discusses why it’s a great gamble, his defensive value, fit versus Nick Castellanos/Max Kepler, and the overall impact on the outfield and lineup. 10:56 – Nick Castellanos’ Future Connor Thomas analyzes what the Garcia signing means for Nick Castellanos, discusses trade scenarios, the market difficulties in moving his contract, and why Castellanos’ time with the Phillies is likely over. 22:28 – Mailbag Monday: Outfield Moves Mailbag segment with listener questions on the right field picture, alternative options, platoon scenarios, the possibility of bringing back Harrison Bader, plus thoughts on addressing center field through free agency. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio , access to our members-only Discord , and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER : 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Dec 15
Get ad-free episodes, access to our members-only Discord community, exclusive shows, and more by joining the Everydayer Club. The free daily show isn't going anywhere—this is just for those who want to take it to the next level. Learn more and sign up at lockedonphillies.supercast.com! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Dec 13
Philadelphia Phillies fans sound the alarm as Brenton Doyle emerges as a rumored center field solution—but is sacrificing prospect capital for defense worth another lackluster bat in the lineup? Connor Thomas slams the idea of a Doyle trade, breaking down his suspect offense, underwhelming splits, and how Citizens Bank Park’s hitter-friendly dimensions likely won’t solve the Phillies’ outfield woes. Plus, the bullpen market heats up as Tyler Rogers signs with the Blue Jays, leaving Philadelphia scrambling for high-leverage arms. Connor Thomas evaluates the urgency to re-sign J.T. Realmuto, the impact of the Bryse Wilson signing, and why time is running out on premium relievers. The episode wraps with fan poll results: Which National League contender, outside the Dodgers, poses the biggest threat to the Phillies? The answer may surprise you. Don’t miss hard-hitting analysis, roster speculation, and what these offseason moves mean for the Phillies’ 2026 World Series hopes. 0:00 – Phillies Center Field Debate Brenton Doyle trade rumors, why Connor Thomas is strongly against him as the Phillies solution. Breakdown of Doyle’s strengths (defense, athleticism) and major drawbacks (batting, splits, fit for contender). 10:35 – Bullpen Market & Rogers Signing Analysis of Tyler Rogers signing with the Blue Jays, missed opportunity for Phillies, discussion of the reliever market, and urgency in signing J.T. Realmuto to free up cap space. 20:44 – National League Competition Poll Results Fan poll results on Phillies’ biggest NL competition (excluding Dodgers), discussion of Braves, Mets, Brewers, and Padres, and Connor Thomas’s reaction to fan perceptions and actual threats. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER : 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Dec 12
The Philadelphia Phillies near a pivotal reunion as J.T. Realmuto edges closer to a new deal—will his return solidify their playoff push or signal a new era behind the plate? Kyle Schwarber's fresh five-year, $150 million contract sets the tone, but questions swirl about Realmuto's future and the impact on the Phillies’ lineup and locker room chemistry. Connor Thomas breaks down the latest contract negotiations with Realmuto, examines the Phillies’ surprising Rule 5 draft pick Zach McCambley, and assesses how the Atlanta Braves’ acquisition of Robert Suarez shakes up the NL East bullpen race. Key insights include the Phillies’ urgency at catcher, strategic bullpen needs, and whether rivals like the Braves have been underestimated. What bold moves does Dave Dombrowski have left up his sleeve—and can the Phillies outpace a surging division? 0:00 – Phillies & JT Realmuto Contract Update Connor Thomas opens the show by discussing the Phillies’ ongoing contract negotiations to bring back JT Realmuto, sharing insider perspectives and key opinions on the likelihood, importance, and terms of the deal. 11:08 – Phillies Rule 5 Draft: Zach McCambley Addition The segment centers on the Phillies’ pick in the Rule 5 Draft—right-handed pitcher Zach McCambley. Connor Thomas breaks down what McCambley brings to the table, the significance for the bullpen, and how it fits team needs. 20:59 – Braves’ Robert Suarez Move & NL East Outlook Focus shifts to an NL East rival, with analysis of the Atlanta Braves acquiring reliever Robert Suarez. Connor Thomas evaluates what it means for the division, Phillies’ competition, and the evolving NL playoff picture. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER : 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Dec 11
The Philadelphia Phillies lock down Kyle Schwarber with a five-year, $150 million deal, matching the Baltimore Orioles’ aggressive offer and squashing any doubts about overpaying for their power-hitting slugger. Host Connor Thomas explores why this move was essential for the Phillies’ championship window and how it impacts the MLB free agent market, especially after Pete Alonso bolts from the Mets to the Orioles for a similarly massive contract. What does losing Pete Alonso mean for the New York Mets’ chances in the NL East—and does it clear a path for another Phillies division title run? Connor Thomas also examines Griff McGarry’s surprising Rule 5 draft departure to the Washington Nationals, weighing the risks of exposing a Minor League Pitcher of the Year. With insights on Phillies’ front-office decisions and the latest on division rivals, this episode offers an essential guide for fans tracking MLB’s shifting offseason landscape. 0:00 - Schwarber Phillies Contract Breakdown Analysis of why the Phillies had to give Kyle Schwarber the deal he received, exploring competing offers and the market forces driving the contract. 11:27 - Pete Alonso Leaves Mets Reaction and implications of Pete Alonso signing with the Orioles, what it means for the Mets, Phillies, and the NL East division landscape. 20:45 - Griff McGarry Rule 5 Draft Deep dive into the Phillies losing Griff McGarry via the Rule 5 draft, why he wasn't protected, and what it indicates about the organization's pitching evaluation. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER : 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Dec 9
The Philadelphia Phillies lock down powerhouse slugger Kyle Schwarber with a massive five-year, $150 million deal—solidifying their title ambitions and keeping the heartbeat of the clubhouse in red pinstripes. Could this gigantic move reshape the MLB free agency market and fuel Philadelphia’s World Series quest? Connor Thomas breaks down the significance of Kyle Schwarber’s return, exploring why his leadership and 56-home-run season make him irreplaceable. The episode covers the impact on the Phillies’ lineup, the ripple effects on free agency, and the challenges of big-money, long-term contracts. Plus, the show spotlights manager Rob Thomson’s contract extension through 2027 and forecasts what’s next for Dave Dombrowski’s off-season maneuvering—will J.T. Realmuto stay, and could a move for Tatsuya Imai or another major arm be on the horizon? 0:00 — Phillies Sign Kyle Schwarber Overview of the blockbuster Kyle Schwarber deal, Connor Thomas reacts to the size, value, and impact on the Phillies. 13:02 — What’s Next for the Phillies? Analysis of the Phillies’ upcoming moves after landing Schwarber, including speculation on J.T. Realmuto, free agent targets, trade market, and pitching additions. 22:59 — Rob Thomson Extension & Final Thoughts Discussion of manager Rob Thomson’s contract extension, its significance (and limits), plus Connor Thomas’s closing opinions about expectations and the Phillies’ off-season trajectory. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER : 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.