The 2026 MLS season is here, and Lobbing Scorchers is sending off the preseason with one final episode before the action kicks off. The crew reunites in the studio for a spirited debate on Pedro de la Vega and his role heading into the new campaign, plus immediate reaction to the now-official trade of Reed Baker-Whiting to Nashville SC.

From there, the pod shifts into full 2026 Seattle Sounders season preview mode, with Ari Liljenwall and Noah Riffe laying out their predictions across several key categories: Team MVP, Golden Boot contender, Best Newcomer, and more.

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Everything We're Predicting for the 2026 Seattle Sounders Season

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Everything We're Predicting for the 2026 Seattle Sounders Season

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About and Profiles

About

Lobbing Scorchers is a Seattle Sounders and MLS focused show brought to you by Sounder at Heart. Hosted by Major League Soccer's Ari Liljenwall and Producer Noah Riffe. Join us as we lob our scorching takes on the American soccer landscape, Seattle Sounders, Major League Soccer, USMNT and more.

Ari Liljenwall

A soccer columnist and journalist with MLSSoccer.com who is a veteran of the Sounders media scene, starting as a beat writer in 2014. In 2019, Ari joined the MLS editorial staff where he writes, edits, and produces content about Major League Soccer.

Noah Riffe

A Seattle native and lifelong Seattle Sounders fan who began his career covering FC Dallas in 2015 and interning at Sporting Kansas City in 2018.

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