Brian Hedger pulls double duty as the Blue Jackets beat writer amid a flurry of team updates.
This episode of Cannon Fodder focuses on the Columbus Blue Jackets' early July activities, including a major coaching hire and player signings. Hosts Mike A. Race and Patrick Flaherty are joined by Blue Jackets beat writer Brian Hedger. The conversation centers on the team's moves following the NHL Draft and the start of free agency.
The hosts note the official hiring of head coach Mike Babcock after his contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs concluded. The Blue Jackets signed their first-round draft pick, Adam Fantilli, on the same day. The organization then quickly commenced its development camp within 48 hours. Babcock has already made a staffing change, with skills coach Kenny McCudden leaving the organization. McCudden's departure was announced as a resignation from his roles, which included being an in-game eye in the sky.
The hosts imply Babcock's hiring ended a period where he was "collecting money" from his prior contract. They characterize the team's schedule as a "busy start to the month" following the draft coverage from their previous episode. The discussion suggests immediate organizational activity under the new coaching leadership.
The tone is conversational and insider-focused, reflecting the perspective of beat reporters close to the team. The style is informal, with hosts using colloquial terms like "podfather" and discussing timelines casually.
This episode would appeal to dedicated Columbus Blue Jackets fans seeking immediate updates on coaching and player personnel moves. Listeners unfamiliar with the team's specific offseason timeline or less interested in organizational staffing details might find it less engaging.
