Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 1: ASG Reaction Release Date: July 16, 2025

Introduction

In the inaugural episode of "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg," hosts Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve into an in-depth reaction to the recent Major League Baseball (MLB) All-Star Game (ASG). Broadcasting from ESPN New York, the trio offers their perspectives on the game's pivotal moments, controversies, and the overall execution of the event.

1. Overview of the All-Star Game (ASG)

The conversation kicks off with the hosts reflecting on the excitement and unique occurrences during the ASG. Peter Rosenberg sets the stage by highlighting the anticipation surrounding the game, referencing the Home Run Derby and the main event itself.

• Peter Rosenberg [00:39-00:58]:
  "It's 3 o'clock in the big city. Don, Han, and Rosenberg, full frontal vehicle today till 7 o'clock as now we get the dog days of the All Star break. Monday we had the home run derby. Last night we had the All Star game and everything that came with that."

2. Key Moments and Swing-Off Controversy

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the introduction of the "swing-off," a novel method to resolve tied games during the exhibition ASG. The hosts dissect the implementation, execution, and reception of this new rule.

• Don LaGreca [05:30-05:42]:
  "We weren't kind of like, joking about, like, the possibilities, the ways you can end the tie? Because even some of the players said, I didn't know this was going to be a thing."

• Peter Rosenberg [07:14-07:43]:
  "Cal Raleigh's in skivvies because he's already out of the game and nobody's thinking about the possibility that it's a tie... Players were completely in the dark about the whole thing supposedly."

The hosts express concerns about the preparedness of players and managers, noting that star players like Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani were unavailable for the swing-off, leading to questions about fairness and transparency.

3. MVP Voting and Fan Reactions

The discussion shifts to the MVP voting process, where Jordan Schwarber was awarded MVP for his three home runs during the swing-off. Don and Peter critique the decision, arguing that Schwarber's performance during the traditional gameplay was overshadowed by his batting practice-like performance in the swing-off.

• Don LaGreca [17:47-17:46]:
  "It should have been Pete Alonzo. It should have been Peter."

• Peter Rosenberg [20:42-21:11]:
  "He didn't do anything during the game. But it's three batting practice home runs. And that's bigger than a three run home run hit against the pitcher that's trying to get him out."

The hosts are particularly critical of the media's role in MVP selection, questioning how media members could uphold the "purity of baseball" while awarding the MVP to a player whose contributions were limited to the swing-off.

4. Comparison to Other Sports' Overtime Mechanisms

Alan and Peter draw parallels between MLB's swing-off and similar overtime mechanisms in hockey and the NBA, discussing the effectiveness and entertainment value of sudden-death scenarios versus traditional extensions like extra innings.

• Don LaGreca [11:00-11:35]:
  "It was fun... More compelling than the Ghost Runner."

• Peter Rosenberg [13:02-14:00]:
  "But it doesn't make it right. It's like deciding a football game on field goals that I can't defend, that aren't defended... That would never do that."

While acknowledging the entertainment factor, the hosts maintain reservations about the fairness and integrity of the swing-off compared to established sports practices.

5. Panelists' Opinions on Execution and Future Implications

The trio shares their thoughts on the execution of the swing-off, debating whether it could be refined for future events or integrated into the regular season. They express enthusiasm for the innovation but emphasize the need for better preparation and communication.

• Peter Rosenberg [30:26-30:45]:
  "I wish there was a way to defend it. There's nothing wrong with at least having the conversation about how you could make it work if the players wanted to do it, if the fans absolutely love it."

• Don LaGreca [32:37-32:40]:
  "But I just don't think baseball purists would ever buy into something like it. All I was saying that it was a lot of fun to watch."

6. Listener Calls and Feedback

The episode incorporates several listener calls, providing diverse viewpoints and further enriching the discussion. Callers like Luke from Indianapolis and Connor from Scarsdale offer their perspectives, supporting the swing-off for its entertainment value while reiterating concerns about player participation and MVP fairness.

• Luke [27:23-28:45]:
  "I think it's great for the All Star Game. But what do you think they'd be given a team like the Yankees an advantage over... Maybe the Cleveland Guardians?"

• Connor [33:02-33:45]:
  "Pete Alonso definitely should have won the MVP, though. Without a doubt. That was a bad call on that one."

7. Concluding Thoughts

In wrapping up, Don, Hahn, and Rosenberg acknowledge the innovative aspects of the ASG but stress the importance of maintaining the sport's integrity. They advocate for ongoing dialogue among stakeholders to refine such changes, ensuring future events balance entertainment with fair competition.

• Peter Rosenberg [37:00-38:56]:
  "There's nothing wrong with at least having the conversation about how you could make it work if the players wanted to do it, if the fans absolutely love it... So I don't think it'll ever happen either."

• Don LaGreca [43:35-44:06]:
  "Thank you, David, for the call. The bulk-up part of it. You got to be careful because one of the things about Sauce is his speed, his athleticism, his ability to keep up with wide receivers and all that."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Peter Rosenberg [03:46]:
  "Someone wants to win and it's a fun idea."

• Don LaGreca [05:03]:
  "The All Star Game needs a break."

• Peter Rosenberg [14:49]:
  "But you're right. That's compelling."

• Don LaGreca [30:24]:
  "The purists will throw up because they're already throwing. That's not even baseball anymore."

• Peter Rosenberg [34:53]:
  "The only way it's going to work is if you end up going to like a point system like the NHL has."

Conclusion

"Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" provides a comprehensive and engaging analysis of the MLB All-Star Game's latest innovations. Through candid discussions, listener interactions, and critical evaluations, the hosts offer valuable insights into the evolving landscape of baseball, balancing tradition with modern entertainment demands. This episode serves as a must-listen for fans seeking a deeper understanding of the game's current dynamics and future directions.