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WORTH THE WAIT?: The Long Game with JJ and Zack
Episode 414
JJ Bleday and Zack Gelof are learning the hard way right now, but that’s exactly what the A’s need if this young core is going to grow into something special. In this episode, we break down why the struggles matter—why Bleday’s adjustments at the plate and in center field are setting him up for long-term success, and why Gelof’s strikeout issues and injury setbacks don’t erase the tools that made him a cornerstone of this rebuild. It’s about patience, perspective, and understanding that development doesn’t happen in a straight line.
We also turn our attention to the Reds-A’s series at Sutter Health Park from September 12–14, where Cincinnati enters with postseason desperation and the A’s embrace the role of spoiler. With juicy pitching matchups—Singer vs. Ginn, Greene vs. Severino, Lodolo vs. Morales—this weekend promises playoff-like tension and a chance for the A’s kids to sharpen their game under the lights. And to frame it all, we look back at the 1972 World Series Game 7, when Rollie Fingers slammed the door and the A’s dynasty was born. Past, present, and future—it’s all here, and it’s all A’s.
A’s podcast, Locked On A’s, JJ Bleday, Zack Gelof, A’s young core, A’s patience, A’s prospects, Cincinnati Reds vs A’s, Sutter Health Park, Brady Singer, J.T. Ginn, Hunter Greene, Luis Severino, Nick Lodolo, Luis Morales, MLB September series, A’s spoiler role, 1972 World Series, Rollie Fingers, Gene Tenace, Sal Bando, Big Red Machine, A’s dynasty, MLB history, A’s future, A’s rebuild, A’s championship history
Music Credits (via Microsoft Clipchamp Free Editing Software): “Tackle It” — used at 27:26 – 29:50 “Rising Up” — used at 29:51 – 33:10 “Feel the Inspiration” — used at 34:00 – 34:57 All music provided by Microsoft Clipchamp’s free library. Rights belong to the respective owners.
For your next listen, check out the Locked On MLB podcast. Get Sully’s take on MLB! He has it all covered every single day. Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.
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