Hour 4-The Seahawks draft class is brimming with confidence and M's insider Shannon Drayer
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The Seahawks' 2026 NFL Draft class is defined by a rare blend of unapologetic confidence and physical aggression—qualities that directly address long-standing weaknesses in their defense. Hosts Brock Heward and Mike Salk highlight how second-round pick Bud Clark and third-round selection Julian Neal aren’t just loud in their self-belief, but backed by film that shows real physicality, speed, and a willingness to attack the line—exactly what the team lacked with former player Rick Wollin. The contrast is stark: Wollin was criticized for being too passive and mentally inconsistent, while the new draft picks embody the 'aggressive, physical' identity that head coach Mike McDonald is building. This isn’t just bravado—it’s a strategic shift toward players who can set edges, disrupt screens, and play with fearless intensity. Meanwhile, the Mariners’ sudden offensive surge—led by Cal Raleigh, Julio Rodríguez, and a deep bench—has turned a shaky start into a three-game sweep in St. Louis. Shannon Drayer, the Mariners’ insider, credits a mental reset, improved pitch selection, and the effective use of the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) system, which, despite controversy, is now seen as a necessary tool for correcting egregious calls.
The Seahawks drafted two physically aggressive, confidence-driven defensive backs—Julian Neal and Bud Clark—specifically to replace Rick Wollin’s passive style and improve edge-setting.
Julian Neal’s film supports his claims of being the most physical corner in the draft class, with proven ability to hit, disrupt screens, and press receivers at the line.
Bud Clark’s versatility as a 'Swiss Army knife' defender makes him ideal for Mike McDonald’s flexible, positionless scheme, capable of playing safety, nickel, and corner.
The Mariners’ offensive turnaround is tied to a mental reset, improved pitch selection, and the effective use of the ABS system to correct obvious missed calls.
Emerson Hancock has earned a rotation spot with a 1.80 ERA and 0.85 WHIP, making him a legitimate starter—raising questions about whether he’ll be sent down for Bryce Miller’s return.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Seahawks Draft Confidence: From Bravado to Film-Backed Reality
“I'm the most physical corner in this draft class. I use my arms to my advantage. I use my left. I use my availability. Never gotten hurt. I've never missed a game in college from being hurt.”
The Rick Wollin Problem and the New Defensive Identity
The episode dissects the shortcomings of Rick Wollin—his lack of aggression, mental lapses, and physical limitations—and how the Seahawks are intentionally replacing him with players who embody physicality, edge-setting, and fearless tackling.
Mariners’ Offensive Rebound: From Struggle to Sweep
“The fact that he has been able to get to where he needs to be, and you see it in the at-bats, you see it in his pitch selection, you see it in that he is finally squaring up baseballs. I think is huge.”
The ABS Controversy: When Should a Call Be Overturned?
“The Ref Snyder call was six inches outside. I mean, like that is – that should get – that is exactly why this is necessary. You need to overturn a call that is missed by that much and it changes the – it literally changed the outcome of the game.”
Emerson Hancock’s Rise and the Bryce Miller Dilemma
The episode debates whether the Mariners should send down rookie starter Emerson Hancock to make room for returning ace Bryce Miller, weighing the value of a hot rookie against the need for a proven veteran.
“The Ref Snyder call was six inches outside. I mean, like that is that should get that is exactly why this is necessary. You need to overturn a call that is missed by that much and it changes the it literally changed the outcome”
“I'm the most physical corner in this draft class. I use my arms to my advantage. I use my left. I use my availability. Never gotten hurt. I've never missed a game in college from being hurt.”
“I'm willing to go there. I'm willing to say that what we've seen is legitimate, it's real, he's done it now through enough starts.”
Hosts
Guest
Mike McDonald
person
Emerson Hancock
person
Shannon Drayer
person
Rick Wollin
person
Julian Neal
person
Bryce Miller
person
Julio Rodríguez
person
Bud Clark
person
Cal Raleigh
person
Luis Castillo
person
Hour 2 - So Many Mariners Contributed This Weekend, Mariners Takeaways, Blue 88
Brock and Salk • 42m • 4/13/2026
Hour 3 - Julio Rodriguez Weekend Quotes, Keith Law
Brock and Salk • 47m • 4/13/2026
Hour 3 - Julio Rodriguez Is The Ultimate Driver Of The Mariners, Jeff Passan
Brock and Salk • 42m • 4/14/2026
Hour 4-Brock's Draft Profile, How real was the M's last series?, and Answer the Question Jerk
Brock and Salk • 43m • 4/14/2026
Hour 1 - Late Night Mariners Texts, Jeff Passan
Brock and Salk • 43m • 4/15/2026
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