Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 1: Jeff Passan Joins the Show
Release Date: May 9, 2025
Hosts:
- Don La Greca – ESPN New York and New Jersey legend
- Alan Hahn – Long-time sportswriter and New York Knicks broadcaster
- Peter Rosenberg – Opinionated Hip Hop veteran and WWE personality
Guest:
- Jeff Passan – Renowned baseball reporter
1. Welcoming Jeff Passan [00:45 – 06:42]
The episode kicks off with Don Hahn and Peter Rosenberg warmly welcoming Jeff Passan to the show. Peter shares a behind-the-scenes story about convincing Jeff to join the podcast, highlighting Jeff’s reputation and eagerness to participate.
Notable Quote:
Peter Rosenberg [01:28]: "Jeff would come on. And what happened was somebody heard it got back to Jeff. And you know what Jeff said? Tell those guys 3 o' clock Friday. And I said, yeah, because that's why he's Jeff Passan."
2. Yankees’ Performance and Key Players [06:42 – 08:56]
The discussion shifts to Major League Baseball, with Jeff Passan providing insights into the New York Yankees' current season. He emphasizes Aaron Judge's outstanding performance and highlights other key players like Paul Goldschmidt, Trent Grisham, and Anthony Volpe.
Notable Quote:
Don Hahn [07:19]: "Judge, just the strength of that man to carry this team and to make the Yankees not look just like contenders in the American League, but arguably the best team."
3. Impact of Max Fried Acquisition [08:56 – 11:16]
Jeff delves into the Yankees' acquisition of Max Fried, assessing its impact compared to other offseason moves. Don Hahn praises Fried's performance, suggesting he could be the MVP of the Yankees despite the high investment.
Notable Quote:
Don Hahn [09:41]: "Max Freed might be the MVP of the Yankees."
4. Devin Williams' Struggles in New York [13:10 – 16:30]
The conversation turns to Devin Williams, a prominent Yankees reliever facing challenges since joining the team. Don Hahn expresses surprise at Williams' struggles, attributing it partly to the high-pressure environment in New York.
Notable Quote:
Don Hahn [14:25]: "Devin Williams has been one of the best relievers in baseball... to see him doing this and to see it just compound and for him to lose his job has surprised me."
5. Juan Soto’s Performance and Contract Motivation [27:08 – 31:50]
Don Hahn presents a theory linking Juan Soto's recent slump to his contract motivations, suggesting that his focus on financial security might be impacting his on-field performance. The hosts debate this notion, with Jeff Passan defending Soto’s work ethic and dismissing the idea that his contract is causing a decline.
Notable Quote:
Don Hahn [30:18]: "If you're all about the last dollar that your best season in your career is going to be the one prior to free agency."
6. Knicks vs. Celtics Playoff Series Analysis [37:04 – 49:49]
The hosts transition to NBA basketball, analyzing the ongoing playoff series between the New York Knicks and the Boston Celtics. They discuss strategic adjustments, player performances, and the high-stakes atmosphere at Madison Square Garden.
Notable Quotes:
Don Hahn [37:38]: "I'm a Mets fan. I just want New York to do well. I'm trying to make friends, not enemies."
Jeff Passan [44:26]: "The Knicks would take advantage of what is being given to them. They aren't wasting them. That's a good thing."
7. Closing Remarks and Future Outlook [49:49 – End]
As the episode winds down, the hosts touch on upcoming games and events, emphasizing the importance of defense in championship runs and teasing future discussions. They also mention their live coverage at Madison Square Garden for the Subway Series matchup.
Notable Quote:
Peter Rosenberg [49:49]: "Defense wins Championships everybody."
Key Insights:
- Aaron Judge's Dominance: Judge continues to elevate the Yankees, potentially making him the MVP of the team.
- Max Fried’s Value: Despite a hefty contract, Fried's performance has been stellar, stabilizing the Yankees' rotation.
- Devin Williams’ Adjustment Period: Williams faces challenges adapting to the high-pressure New York environment, raising questions about player transitions.
- Juan Soto’s Slump Debunked: The theory linking Soto’s performance decline to his contract motivation is contested, with emphasis on his consistent work ethic.
- Knicks’ Strategic Play: The Knicks' ability to capitalize on opportunities is highlighted as a key factor in their playoff success against the Celtics.
- Upcoming Playoff Dynamics: The hosts anticipate exciting developments in the Knicks vs. Celtics series, underscoring the intensity of playoff basketball.
Conclusion
In this episode of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg, hosts and guest Jeff Passan provide in-depth analysis of both Major League Baseball and NBA basketball, offering listeners a blend of statistical insights and passionate commentary. From the Yankees' promising season and key player performances to the high-stakes Knicks vs. Celtics playoff series, the discussion is both comprehensive and engaging, making it a must-listen for sports enthusiasts.
For those interested in more detailed discussions and future episodes, subscribe to Don, Hahn & Rosenberg wherever you get your podcasts.