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When it comes to understanding the heartbeat of the Toronto Blue Jays’ farm system, few voices are more trusted than Pat Malacaro, the longtime broadcaster for the Buffalo Bisons. On a recent episode of the Jay Bird Watching Podcast, Pat joined Craig Borden, Liz McGuire, and Jason Lyons for a wide-ranging conversation about prospects, pitching depth, and the unique culture that makes Buffalo baseball so special.
Here’s what Pat had to say about the Bisons, the Blue Jays, and the future stars fans should be watching closely.
🧢 On Becoming the Voice of the Bisons
Craig: Pat, you’ve been the voice of the Bisons for years. What’s that journey been like?
Pat: It’s been incredible. I grew up in Buffalo, so calling games for the Bisons is a dream come true. It’s not just about baseball—it’s about community. Every night at the ballpark, I get to connect with fans, share stories, and watch future MLB stars take shape.
🔄 The Bisons as a Blue Jays Pipeline
Liz: How do you see the Bisons fitting into the Blue Jays’ development strategy?
Pat: Buffalo is the final proving ground. If you can succeed here, you’re ready for Toronto. The Jays rely heavily on this level to refine players’ approach, test their consistency, and prepare them for the pressure of the big leagues.
🌟 Standout Prospects to Watch
Jason: Who’s turning heads in Buffalo right now?
Pat: Joey Loperfido has been electric—great bat speed, high baseball IQ. Charles McAdoo has one of the smoothest swings I’ve seen in years. And on the mound, Kendry Rojas and Gage Stanifer are quietly building something special. These guys aren’t just filling roster spots—they’re pushing for real roles in Toronto.
According to , Loperfido’s power and speed combo has made him one of the most talked-about names in the system, while McAdoo’s swing mechanics have drawn comparisons to early-career Corey Seager.
Ernie Clement: The Glue Guy
Craig: Ernie Clement seems to be everywhere. What’s his impact?
Pat: He’s the kind of player every clubhouse needs. Versatile, positive, and clutch. Whether he’s in Buffalo or Toronto, Clement brings stability and leadership. He’s a bridge between levels and a mentor to younger guys.
🎟️ Buffalo vs. Toronto: Fan Culture Contrast
Liz: What’s the vibe like in Buffalo compared to Toronto?
Pat: It’s more intimate here. Fans know the players before they’re stars. They follow their journeys, cheer their call-ups, and feel personally invested. It’s a different kind of magic—more grassroots, more personal.
👏 Women in Baseball: Progress and Pride
Jason: We’ve seen more women in broadcasting and umpiring. Thoughts?
Pat: It’s long overdue and incredibly exciting. From all-female broadcast teams to women playing in Banana Ball, the sport is evolving. Baseball should reflect the diversity of its fans, and we’re finally seeing that happen.
🔁 Roster Movement and Flexibility
Craig: How do the Jays manage the shuttle between Buffalo and Toronto?
Pat: It’s constant. Injuries, performance, matchups—it all plays a role. The front office is strategic, and players know that every game in Buffalo is a chance to earn that call-up. It keeps the competition sharp.
⚾ Pitching Depth and Development
Liz: What’s the state of the Bisons’ rotation?
Pat: It’s deep. Shane Bieber’s rehab starts were a huge boost. Lawler’s been dominant, and Manoa is working his way back. The Jays are building a rotation that can withstand a long season, and Buffalo is central to that plan.
According to , the Bisons are balancing development with winning, featuring a mix of veterans and top prospects like Ricky Tiedemann and Trey Yesavage.
🎉 Favorite Bisons Moments
Jason: Any personal highlights from your time in the booth?
Pat: Too many to count. Walk-off wins, no-hitters, promotions gone hilariously wrong. But the best moments are the quiet ones—watching a kid get their first autograph, seeing a player hug their family after a call-up. That’s what makes minor league baseball special.
🏙️ Community and Minor League Magic
Craig: What makes Buffalo baseball unique?
Pat: It’s woven into the city’s fabric. The Bisons aren’t just a team—they’re a tradition. From school nights to fireworks shows, we’re part of people’s lives. And when one of our guys makes it to Toronto, the whole city celebrates.
🧠 Final Thought
Pat Malacaro’s insights remind us that the road to the Rogers Centre runs through Buffalo—and that the Bisons are more than just a minor league team. They’re a launchpad, a community, and a vital part of the Blue Jays’ future.
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