A unique sporting event is brewing, combining the worlds of baseball and a popular hockey podcast. Former NHL player Paul Bissonnette, known online as “Biz Nasty,” announced plans for an upcoming “Sandbagger” competition involving the Toronto Blue Jays. The event, details of which are still emerging, promises a lighthearted challenge with a competitive edge.
Bissonnette’s initial post on X, viewed 54 times as of Tuesday, February 17, 2026, simply stated, “Unbelievable Sandbagger coming soon with the Toronto Blue Jays. What a bunch of beauties.” This cryptic message has sparked considerable interest among fans of both hockey and baseball, leaving many to speculate about the nature of the competition. The term “Sandbagger” appears to be linked to a friendly rivalry and a specific event previously featured on the “Spittin’ Chiclets” podcast, which Bissonnette co-hosts with former NHL defenseman Ryan Whitney. A Reddit post from February 5, 2020, references a “2nd Annual Sandbagger Invitational” featuring Whitney and Bissonnette competing against Jimmy Hayes and Tim Stapleton, suggesting a competitive, yet informal, athletic challenge.
What is a “Sandbagger” Competition?
The origins of the “Sandbagger” moniker and the specific rules of the competition are rooted in the “Spittin’ Chiclets” podcast. While the exact details remain somewhat elusive, the term appears to denote a contest where participants intentionally underestimate their abilities to gain an advantage. The 2020 Reddit post indicates a previous iteration involved a sporting event, though the specific sport isn’t explicitly stated. The playful nature of the announcement and the history of the podcast suggest a focus on entertainment and camaraderie alongside the competition.
Paul Bissonnette, born March 11, 1985, in Welland, Ontario, Canada, enjoyed a six-year NHL career playing for the Pittsburgh Penguins and Phoenix Coyotes. According to his Wikipedia page, he has transitioned into a successful media career, currently serving as a studio analyst for NHL on TNT and as an analyst for the former Arizona Coyotes’ TV/radio broadcasts. He’s as well a prominent voice in the hockey world through his work on “Spittin’ Chiclets.”
The Toronto Blue Jays Connection
The involvement of the Toronto Blue Jays adds an intriguing dimension to the upcoming event. It’s currently unconfirmed which players from the Blue Jays will participate, or what form the competition will take. Given the Blue Jays’ status as a Major League Baseball team, it’s reasonable to assume the “Sandbagger” challenge will incorporate some element of baseball skill, potentially alongside other athletic tests. The Blue Jays organization has not yet released an official statement regarding the event.
The Blue Jays finished the 2025 MLB season with a record of 87-75, falling short of a playoff berth. The team is currently preparing for the 2026 season and this “Sandbagger” event could serve as a unique team-building exercise or a promotional opportunity.
Bissonnette’s Media Presence and Popularity
Bissonnette’s popularity extends beyond his playing days. His candid and often humorous commentary on “Spittin’ Chiclets” has cultivated a dedicated following. The podcast consistently ranks among the most popular hockey podcasts, attracting a broad audience interested in behind-the-scenes insights and unfiltered opinions. His social media presence, particularly on X, is also substantial, allowing him to directly engage with fans and promote his various projects.
Bissonnette’s ability to connect with audiences stems, in part, from his relatable personality and willingness to share personal stories. His Wikipedia page details his upbringing in Welland, Ontario, and his parents’ professions – his mother was an office administration professor, and his father a steel worker. He is also noted as being of biracial origin, with his mother being half Black, and having attended French-language schools until the seventh grade.
Looking Ahead
While specific details remain scarce, the announcement of a “Sandbagger” competition involving the Toronto Blue Jays and Paul Bissonnette has generated significant buzz. Further information regarding the event’s format, participating players, and potential broadcast details is expected to be released in the coming weeks. Fans can follow Bissonnette’s X account for updates and anticipate a unique and entertaining sporting spectacle.
The next confirmed update is expected to come directly from Paul Bissonnette’s X account or an official announcement from the Toronto Blue Jays organization. Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available.
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