TE

Terry’s Talkin’

Terry Pluto, Cleveland.com

Why the Cavs didn't go after Giannis; can the Guardians find some offense?

Jun 24, 20261h 15m
Summary

In this episode of Terry’s Talkin’, host Terry Pluto and David Campbell return from a summer break to break down the latest developments in Cleveland sports. The discussion opens with a deep dive into the Cavaliers' draft strategy and the current landscape of the NBA. Pluto explains why the front office opted for flexibility over immediate roster additions, focusing on the team’s navigation of the NBA's second apron and the increasing value of second-round draft picks as manageable assets. They also address listener questions regarding the roster, specifically evaluating the future of the core lineup and the feasibility of major trades to push the team into championship contention. The second half of the episode shifts to the diamond as the hosts assess the Guardians' recent offensive struggles. Following a series of unfortunate injuries, the team has faced significant challenges scoring runs, leading to a dip in their performance in close, one-run games. Pluto provides insight into the team’s minor league system, analyzing whether top prospects can provide the immediate offensive spark the major league club desperately needs. The hosts conclude by debating the team's reliance on small-ball tactics versus the necessity of finding more consistent power.

Updated Jun 24, 2026

About This Episode

Highlights: The Cavaliers traded their No. 29 draft pick to drop to No. 34 and acquire a future second-round pick, preserving financial flexibility. The NBA's new "apron tariff" has drastically increased the value of second-round picks by allowing teams to utilize non-guaranteed contracts and avoid luxury tax penalties. Trading James Harden remains highly unrealistic due to his massive $42 million player option, noticeable physical decline, and reputation for forcing exits. Massive salary commitments to top-heavy contracts restrict the Cavaliers from executing significant roster upgrades or signing expensive free agents. Instead of executing a blockbuster overhaul, the Cavaliers' front office intends to rely heavily on internal roster development and cultural continuity, Terry says. Cleveland was excluded from the Bucks' blockbuster trade because they completely lacked the proven, high-upside young talent required to facilitate the deal. Terry is hosting a free public engagement event at a newly opened Barnes & Noble in Aurora to discuss his latest reporting with fans. The Guardians' current offensive struggles stem directly from a devastating sequence of injuries on June 13. A lack of hitting power and unproductive offensive strategies have led to a shockingly poor 11-14 record for the Guardians in tight, one-run games. Recent minor league call-ups are struggling significantly at the plate, highlighting the massive competitive skill gap between Triple-A and Major League pitching. Despite the position's reputation for poor hitting, catchers Patrick Bailey and Austin Hedges unexpectedly paced the Guardians' failing offense throughout June. With Gabriel Arias enduring a historically brutal slump, a listener suggests prioritizingthird-base plate appearances for Daniel Schneemann and David Fry. Should the Guardians target the promising Parker Messick for a contract extension? The heavily revamped White Sox have transformed into legitimate divisional threats, presenting a challenge for Cleveland in their upcoming weekend series. The NFL vs. Brendan Sorsby. In stark contrast to modern prospects transferring to elite academies, LeBron James famously remained loyal to his local neighborhood high school, elevating it to a national powerhouse. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen to Terry’s Talkin’ in Podtastic

For listeners, not advertisers

More Episodes

Why a LeBron homecoming might not work for the Cavs; the story behind Khalil Watson's Guardians arrival

Jul 1, 20261h 10mSummary

In this episode of Terry’s Talkin’, Terry Pluto and host David Campbell analyze the potential for a third LeBron James homecoming to the Cleveland Cavaliers. While acknowledging the sentimental appeal and the team's need for a wing, Pluto expresses caution, noting that the current version of LeBron is physically different from the player who led the franchise to consecutive NBA Finals appearances years ago. The hosts discuss the complexities of integrating an older superstar alongside current roster pieces like Donovan Mitchell, specifically questioning how usage rates and ball dominance might affect team chemistry. They also touch upon reports regarding potential interest from other teams, including the Golden State Warriors, and the evolving nature of NBA roster building. Following the basketball discussion, the conversation shifts to the Cleveland Guardians. Pluto provides insight into the development of Khalil Watson, detailing the trade history that brought the athletic prospect to the organization and his journey through the minor leagues. Finally, the episode shifts toward a technical evaluation of Stephen Kwan’s recent performance, as the hosts examine concerning trends in his bat speed and plate approach that have emerged over recent seasons.

Was the Myles Garrett trade the right deal at the right time? Travis Bazzana and the 2024 draft class

Jun 2, 20261h 14mSummary

In this episode of Terry’s Talkin’, host David Campbell and sports journalist Terry Pluto break down the major trade involving Myles Garrett, who was sent from the Cleveland Browns to the Los Angeles Rams. The hosts analyze the return package, which includes edge rusher Jared Verse and significant draft capital. Pluto explains why the front office prioritized acquiring a proven, young player under team control over simply accumulating draft picks, noting that Verse’s contract and age better align with the team’s long-term rebuilding timeline. The discussion delves into the complex dynamics of NFL trades, touching on the role of no-trade clauses, the influence of agents, and the necessity of managing player expectations. Campbell and Pluto also debate the transparency of team management, contrasting front-office public statements with the reality of roster moves. Beyond the Browns, the hosts shift gears to discuss the surprising financial power of collegiate brands, specifically highlighting Shedeur Sanders’ record-breaking endorsement earnings. The episode concludes by setting the stage for a deeper look at the Cleveland Guardians and their performance throughout the season.

All podcast names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Podcasts listed on Podtastic are publicly available shows distributed via RSS. Podtastic does not endorse nor is endorsed by any podcast or podcast creator listed in this directory.