The Chase for 28 - A Yankees Podcast

Christopher J. Nesi
  • 5.0 (5)
  • BASEBALL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Join Chris, John "The Podcast Padre" Nesi, & AJ "The Podcast Paisan" Bianco as they break down the latest Yankees news every week.

  1. APR 4

    6–1 Start: Should Yankees Fans Believe Yet? (4/4/26) - CF28-121

    Seven games into the 2026 season, the Yankees are off to another strong start—but should you buy in? Chris and the Podcast Padre break down the Yankees’ opening week, including a sweep of the Giants, a series win in Seattle, and a successful home opener in the Bronx. While the pitching staff looks dominant and early contributors like Ben Rice are turning heads, the guys keep things grounded—because Yankees fans have seen this script before. The conversation dives into why early-season success doesn’t guarantee October glory, the importance of staying consistent through inevitable slumps, and how this team might be different. Plus, thoughts on the ABS challenge system, standout performances, and a major personal announcement from Chris that takes the podcast beyond the Bronx. Topics DiscussedYankees open 2026 season strong (6–1 start)Sweep of the Giants and series win vs. MarinersImportance of staying level-headed early in the seasonPitching dominance led by Max Fried and emerging armsCam Schlittler vs. Paul Skenes comparisonOffensive inconsistencies despite timely hittingAaron Judge’s power vs. low batting averageGiancarlo Stanton’s hot start (and expected streakiness)Ben Rice’s breakout performance and developmentABS (Automated Ball-Strike) system early impressionsUmpire struggles and the future of automated callsCatcher framing relevance in the ABS eraYankees upcoming schedule: Marlins, A’s, RaysBIG ANNOUNCEMENT: Chris named PA announcer for the Staten Island FerryHawks Yankees TriviaWhich Yankees pitcher threw a perfect game in 1998?Answer: David WellsThis Episode: Which Yankees player holds the MLB record for most first-inning home runs in a season? Bullpen Q&A ☎️You have opinions just like we do, so we want to hear from you! Send voicemail http://chasefor28.com/voicemailEmail us: feedback@chasefor28.comConnect on X: @chasefor28podConnect on Instagram: @chasefor28pod Merch 👕 Podcast and Select Player Shirts SeatGeek 🎟 Check out SeatGeek - the easiest way to buy tickets for sports, concerts, and more. Visit chasefor28.com/seatgeek and use promo code 'CHASEFOR28' at checkout to get $20 off your first purchase. Affiliate Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!

    31 min

  2. MAR 28

    Back-to-Back Shutouts to Open 2026 (3/28/26) - CF28-120

    The Yankees couldn’t have scripted a better start to 2026 — and Chris and the Podcast Padre are here to break it all down. After opening the season 2-0 with back-to-back shutouts (a franchise first), the early returns point to something Yankees fans have been begging for: dominant pitching and a more balanced offensive approach. In this episode, the guys react to Opening Day on Netflix, Stanton’s hot start, Judge benefiting from the ABS system, and a lineup that’s producing without relying on the long ball. Plus, a deep dive into the pitching staff’s early dominance, lineup decisions, and what this start might actually mean (or not mean) just two games in. Is this a real shift — or just early-season noise? Topics DiscussedYankees open 2026 with back-to-back shutouts (franchise first)Opening Day reactions (including Netflix broadcast)Offensive approach shift: hitting vs. home run relianceGiancarlo Stanton’s strong early performanceAaron Judge and the impact of ABS challengesPitching dominance: rotation + bullpen early successLineup construction and platoon decisionsEarly impressions of depth and roster balanceAround the league notes and early surprisesYankees' upcoming schedule (Giants, Mariners, Marlins) Yankees TriviaWhich New York Yankees player hit the first walk-off home run in World Series history?Answer: Tommy Henrich hit the first walk-off home run in World Series history on October 5, 1949This Episode: Which New York Yankees pitcher threw a perfect game in the 1998 season? Bullpen Q&A ☎️You have opinions just like we do, so we want to hear from you! Send voicemail http://chasefor28.com/voicemailEmail us: feedback@chasefor28.comConnect on X: @chasefor28podConnect on Instagram: @chasefor28pod Merch 👕 Podcast and Select Player Shirts SeatGeek 🎟 Check out SeatGeek - the easiest way to buy tickets for sports, concerts, and more. Visit chasefor28.com/seatgeek and use promo code 'CHASEFOR28' at checkout to get $20 off your first purchase. Affiliate Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!

    36 min

  3. MAR 21

    Are the 2026 Yankees Built to Last? (3/20/26) - CF28-119

    The 2026 season is a week away, and the Yankees are giving us plenty to talk about — both good and bad. In this episode of The Chase for 28, Chris and the Podcast Padre react to the early returns, separating what’s real from what might just be small-sample-size noise. From early power surges and standout performances to lingering concerns about consistency, approach, and roster construction, the guys break down what’s encouraging and what still feels way too familiar. Is this team actually different — or are we watching a rerun of the same script? Plus, early breakout candidates, red flags to monitor, and what needs to change if the Yankees are serious about chasing No. 28. Topics DiscussedYankees offensive identity: power vs. productionPitching staff early performance checkBullpen reliability and usage concernsLineup construction and consistency issuesWhat feels different (and what doesn’t) from past seasonsKeys to sustaining success over a full season Yankees TriviaWhich New York Yankees player hit the first walk-off home run in World Series history?Answer: Next Episode Bullpen Q&A ☎️You have opinions just like we do, so we want to hear from you! Send voicemail http://chasefor28.com/voicemailEmail us: feedback@chasefor28.comConnect on X: @chasefor28podConnect on Instagram: @chasefor28pod Merch 👕 Podcast and Select Player Shirts SeatGeek 🎟 Check out SeatGeek - the easiest way to buy tickets for sports, concerts, and more. Visit chasefor28.com/seatgeek and use promo code 'CHASEFOR28' at checkout to get $20 off your first purchase. Affiliate Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!

    53 min

  4. FEB 21

    Spring Training Is Here: Are the Yankees Really Running It Back in 2026? (2/21/26) - CF28-118

    Spring Training is officially underway, and The Chase for 28 is back for Season 6. Chris and the Podcast Padre break down what 2026 really looks like for the Yankees — and whether “running it back” is good enough after another 94-win season that ended without a ring. The guys dig into lineup concerns (Volpe’s strikeouts, Wells’ development, Jazz aiming for 50/50?!), expectations for Giancarlo Stanton at age 36, and whether Ben Rice is poised for a breakout. On the mound, they evaluate Gerrit Cole’s outlook, the revamped rotation, and what to expect from the young arms. And then… the big question: Should the Yankees go get Bryce Harper? And what would it actually cost? It’s optimism, frustration, realism — and just enough delusion to believe 2026 might finally be the year. Topics DiscussedSpring Training Opening Day reactionsYankees “running it back” after 94 winsVolpe’s strikeout problem and long-term concernsCaballero’s opportunity at shortstopBen Rice breakout expectationsStanton’s role and realistic 2026 productionPitching staff outlook: Cole, Fried, Rodón, youth depthJazz Chisholm’s 50/50 commentsHome runs vs. productive offense philosophyThe Bryce Harper trade debateFan engagement plans for 2026 (voicemails, live streams) SponsorSeatGeek – Use promo code ChaseFor28 for $20 off your first purchase. Connect With UsEmail: feedback@chasefor28.comVoicemail: https://chasefor28.com/voicemailInstagram: @chasefor28pod Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — it helps more than you think.

    40 min
  5. Why the Yankees Feel Stuck Heading into 2026 (12/13/25) - CF28117

    12/13/2025

    Why the Yankees Feel Stuck Heading into 2026 (12/13/25) - CF28117

    The offseason officially rolls on for the Chase for 28 crew, but optimism is in short supply. In Episode 117, Chris, the Podcast Padre, and the Podcast Paisan return to break down a Yankees winter that feels frozen in time. From the shocking qualifying offer acceptance by Trent Grisham to the continued reliance on analytics over fundamentals, the guys question whether Brian Cashman and the front office truly understand what this team needs to win in October. The conversation spans roster construction, positional logjams, and the growing frustration of running back essentially the same team. They debate Volpe’s future, Ben Rice’s role, the impossibility of moving Giancarlo Stanton’s contract, and whether the Yankees are leaning too heavily on pitching to mask offensive flaws. Add in lockout speculation, ownership spending concerns, Asian market rumors, and a lively trivia debate, and this episode captures exactly how uneasy Yankees fans feel heading into 2026. Key Topics Discussed Why the Yankees made (and lost) the Trent Grisham qualifying offer gambleHow MLB qualifying offers work—and why this one backfiredHas baseball passed Brian Cashman by?Analytics vs. “using your eyes” in roster decisionsThe Yankees’ youth movement paradox: Domínguez, Jones, Volpe, WellsBen Rice as catcher or first baseman—and the ripple effectsLefty-heavy lineups, balance, and Yankee Stadium roster philosophyFrustrations with bottom-of-the-lineup productionDebating contact hitters vs. power-first approachesAsian market targets: Murakami, Okamoto, Imai, and posting-system realitiesGiancarlo Stanton’s contract and the need to free the DH spotPitching reliance: Cole’s age, Rodón’s value, and rotation trustLockout speculation and the Dodgers changing the financial landscapeAre the Yankees still true AL East favorites? Yankees Trivia 🤔 Who is the only AL team the Yankees have never faced in the playoffs? Answer: Up until 2025 it was the Toronto Blue Jays This episode: Name the 3 Yankees who have hit for the cycle more than once. Bullpen Q&A ☎️ You have opinions just like we do so we want to hear from you! Email us at feedback@chasefor28.com Connect with us on Twitter @chasefor28pod Connect with us on Instagram @chasefor28pod Send a voicemail http://chasefor28.com/voicemail Merch 👕 Chase for 28 - Podcast and Select Player Shirts - http://chasefor28.com/merch SeatGeek 🎟 Check out SeatGeek - the easiest way to buy tickets for sports, concerts, and more. Visit chasefor28.com/seatgeek and use promo code 'CHASEFOR28' at checkout to get $20 off your first purchase. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/chasefor28.

    34 min
  6. Harper Rumors, Volpe Doubts & Hot Stove Dreams (10/25/25) - CF28-116

    10/26/2025

    Harper Rumors, Volpe Doubts & Hot Stove Dreams (10/25/25) - CF28-116

    The 2025 season is in the books, and the Chase for 28 crew is officially back in the Batcave to launch Hot Stove season! In Episode 116, Chris and the Podcast Padre dive deep into the Yankees’ offseason outlook—reacting to the Blue Jays’ World Series run, evaluating trade rumors, and debating the franchise’s future direction. From Bryce Harper trade chatter to Bo Bichette speculation and frustration over Anthony Volpe’s stagnant development, this episode is a rollercoaster of offseason energy, sarcasm, and genuine fandom. The guys dissect the Yankees’ analytics-heavy approach, Cashman’s long leash, and why simply “making the playoffs” isn’t enough for this franchise anymore. They review potential free agents, trade targets like Skubal and Skenes, and discuss how youth, health, and smarter at-bats could reshape the 2026 roster. Topics Discussed: Yankees’ 2025 playoff exit and Toronto’s World Series appearanceVolpe’s struggles and whether he’s still the “shortstop of the future”Frustration with Boone and Cashman’s job securityBryce Harper trade rumor—would you send Stanton to Philly to make it happen?Offseason needs: contact hitters, reliable outfielders, and a balanced lineupPossible targets: Harper (PHI), Bo Bichette (TOR), Skubal (DET), Skenes (PIT), Kyle Tucker (CHC)Free agent breakdowns: Bellinger, Realmuto, Schwarber, Conforto, Gurriel Jr.Discussion on potential moves: Rice as a full-time catcher, Domínguez and Jones in the outfieldAnalytics vs. baseball IQ: the Yankees’ identity crisisCole, Rodón, and health updates ahead of 2026Listener mailbag: Couzini calls for Boone’s firing and praises Don Mattingly Yankees Trivia 🤔 Who has the most wins in a single season for NY? Answer: Jack Chesbro, 41 W in 1904 This episode: Who is the only team in the AL the Yankees have never faced in the playoffs? Bullpen Q&A ☎️ You have opinions just like we do so we want to hear from you! Email us at feedback@chasefor28.com Connect with us on Twitter @chasefor28pod Connect with us on Instagram @chasefor28pod Send a voicemail http://chasefor28.com/voicemail Merch 👕 Chase for 28 - Podcast and Select Player Shirts - http://chasefor28.com/merch SeatGeek 🎟 Check out SeatGeek - the easiest way to buy tickets for sports, concerts, and more. Visit chasefor28.com/seatgeek and use promo code 'CHASEFOR28' at checkout to get $20 off your first purchase. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/chasefor28.

    44 min
  7. BONUS: ALDS Game 4 Reaction (10/8/25)

    10/09/2025 ·  BONUS

    BONUS: ALDS Game 4 Reaction (10/8/25)

    The 2025 Yankees season is officially over. In this emotional instant reaction episode, Chris and the Podcast Paisan (AJ) host what feels like the Bronx Bombers’ postseason wake. The Yankees’ offense went silent once again, managing only three hits through eight innings before falling 5–2 to the Blue Jays in Game 4. Despite Cam Schlittler’s strong start, sloppy defense from Jazz Chisholm and a quiet lineup sealed their fate. Chris and AJ unpack the collapse—Volpe’s alarming strikeout rate, the team’s one-dimensional hitting philosophy, and Boone’s ongoing managerial issues. From comparing the Yankees’ analytical approach to other AL contenders to venting about situational hitting and poor at-bats, the guys reflect on a season of “what ifs.” They also share lighter moments about fandom, future roster shakeups, and what comes next for Chase for 28 as they look toward 2026. Bullpen Q&A ☎️ You have opinions just like we do so we want to hear from you! Email us at feedback@chasefor28.com Connect with us on Twitter @chasefor28pod Connect with us on Instagram @chasefor28pod Send a voicemail http://chasefor28.com/voicemail Merch 👕 Chase for 28 - Podcast and Select Player Shirts - http://chasefor28.com/merch SeatGeek 🎟 Check out SeatGeek - the easiest way to buy tickets for sports, concerts, and more. Visit chasefor28.com/seatgeek and use promo code 'CHASEFOR28' at checkout to get $20 off your first purchase. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/chasefor28.

    17 min
  8. BONUS: ALDS Game 3 Reaction (10/8/25)

    10/08/2025 ·  BONUS

    BONUS: ALDS Game 3 Reaction (10/8/25)

    The Yankees aren’t dead yet! In Game 3 of the ALDS, Aaron Judge put the team on his back as the Bronx Bombers stormed back from a 6–1 deficit to defeat the Blue Jays and keep their season alive. Chris and the Podcast Paisan (AJ) break down every emotional moment—from Rodón’s early collapse to the bullpen’s lockdown effort and Judge’s MVP-caliber leadership that sparked the comeback. Despite leaving eight runners on base, the Yankees went 6-for-12 with runners in scoring position and finally showed the timely hitting that’s been missing all series. Stanton and Wells delivered clutch two-out RBIs, Ben Rice chipped in with a key sacrifice fly, and the bullpen trio of Cruz, Bednar, and Duvall sealed the deal. With Cam Schlittler on deck for Game 4, Chris and AJ look ahead to a potential series-tying performance as “Stan-tober” finally starts to heat up in the Bronx. Bullpen Q&A ☎️ You have opinions just like we do so we want to hear from you! Email us at feedback@chasefor28.com Connect with us on Twitter @chasefor28pod Connect with us on Instagram @chasefor28pod Send a voicemail http://chasefor28.com/voicemail Merch 👕 Chase for 28 - Podcast and Select Player Shirts - http://chasefor28.com/merch SeatGeek 🎟 Check out SeatGeek - the easiest way to buy tickets for sports, concerts, and more. Visit chasefor28.com/seatgeek and use promo code 'CHASEFOR28' at checkout to get $20 off your first purchase. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/chasefor28.

    11 min
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Join Chris, John "The Podcast Padre" Nesi, & AJ "The Podcast Paisan" Bianco as they break down the latest Yankees news every week.

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