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Don Hahn
Don, I was fighting with obesity. I wore.
Peter Rosenberg
You were losing.
Don Hahn
Don.
Peter Rosenberg
Don.
Richard
Peter. Thank you, Ellen.
Don Hahn
I hope you make the team. And Rosenberg.
Peter Rosenberg
Richard, have you ever heard of Brazzers?
Don Hahn
No, this isn't North Dakota. This is New York. This is Don Hahn and Rosenberg on 880 ESPN and the ESPN New York app.
Peter Rosenberg
Oh, we're gonna have a good day. Don. So don't you think, don't you think that intro set the tone for this being a good day?
Don Hahn
It is going to be. Yeah. They listened. You put Brown. Sure to work.
Peter Rosenberg
Well, well, the thing. Let me, let me, let me. First of all, welcome to the show, guys. Happy Valentine's Day. Happy Friday. Happy holiday weekend. What is it, President's Day this time? Like you dream about.
Don Hahn
Yes.
Peter Rosenberg
Welcome aboard. It's Peter. And Don Allen is with his daughter this weekend doing big volleyball tings, but Don and I will hold you down till 7 o'clock. So brownshirt and I got into a whole thing yesterday about the intros and, and Don, at the end of it, we ended up having to, like, hug it out because we were. We got into an actual fight and then we sent like very mushy text messages to each other because we felt bad about the fight that took place. Oh, and then Brownshirt texted me again and said, I'm inspired by what happened. And I just put a bunch of new intros in and that was one of them.
Don Hahn
I like it. And I got another idea.
Peter Rosenberg
Go ahead.
Don Hahn
That may be what's in the open kind of suggests maybe the kind of show it's going to be. Okay, now think about it, right? Because today is obviously one of those fun shows. There's nothing really pressing. We're going to hear from Brian Cashman in a bit. Giants selling a minority stake of their team. Team four nations, NBA all star nothing that's really popping, right? We'll get it all in. But we, we had our pinhead suit, John Winthorpe basically give us car blanche today. Have fun and go at it, guys.
Peter Rosenberg
Freelance it Is so funny that you said that I was going to go on the air without talking to Don about this and say, is it me or did John Winthrop just say go out there and have a good time?
Don Hahn
Yeah, just go out there.
Peter Rosenberg
Right.
Don Hahn
Buy yourself something nice. That was, you know, like, it was just. He put like $100 bill in your pocket and closed your hand, said, go out and buy something nice.
Peter Rosenberg
He said, it's, it's, it's Valentine's Day. It's a holiday weekend All Star break, NHL break. A Jace just have a good day. And I said, oh, I'm sitting there on. Ready to break down off season baseball acquisitions. And he goes, you know, calm down right off a good time today like you dream about. And so then when you hear an open like that with Don, I did not realize when you said you were fighting the obesity, the kind of long term drop that we might have there.
Don Hahn
Yeah, that could be good. But it sets the tone like, like if they're a bunch of funny ones, it's gonna be a funny show today. A bunch of like journalistic comments. Maybe it's gonna be, you know, what really important show today. Or it's.
Peter Rosenberg
Maybe it'll be someone else hosting the show. Maybe it'll be someone else.
Don Hahn
Well, that's probably a bad up or example. But I think if it's a big Met day or a big Yankee day, like sprinkle it in like, like the example that I'll use. And this is so, this is so Don and it's so of a different era.
Peter Rosenberg
But young Don, we love young Don.
Don Hahn
Had a, a crush on Batgirl, of course, from, from the old Adam West Batman episodes from the 60s. So they play the reruns in the 70s and there'd be Batgirl.
Peter Rosenberg
I don't know what she looked like.
Don Hahn
Well, go take a look. Enjoy yourself on this day of love. All right now she was, she was gorgeous. And you know, 10 year old Don still developing was like I enjoy her for some reason and I don't know why. And whenever she would be giving strange.
Peter Rosenberg
She was giving you a strange sensation.
Don Hahn
Climbing the rope in gym class. Oh, it wasn't. You don't have to be so, so work so blue here. But yeah, exactly. All right, I was confused, but I enjoyed that confusion. And so the beginning, the animated open to Batman and anybody of a certain age knows what I'm talking about. The old Adam west, the show from, from the Sia. But when they would had an animated open and then at the very end before it would start There would be the Batgirl and it would tell you it's a Batgirl episode. And I was all, so maybe our opens could be a little bit of indication on what kind of day it's going to be. Is it a Batgirl day? Is it a Cashman day? Because there's a big difference between Batgirl and Cashman.
Peter Rosenberg
Oh, my God. There couldn't be. Well, but see, this, this is why, this is the only reason why your, your plan here may not work is because, is because we're going to do both today. And listen, it's going to be a Batgirl day. But we have to talk a little bit about the Yankees and the Strowman of it all because, you guys know, never been a big Stroman guy. And Stroman has now arrived and we're going to hear from a few people, including Marcus Stroman. But, Don, we're also going to get to some the hockey from last night like you dream about. Have ourselves a KACHUK party.
Don Hahn
Yeah, they're, they're, they're real good.
Peter Rosenberg
They're good at get ready for Saturday night, which I'm curious to get a gauge of, like, how big a deal that could be. I think it's particularly interesting going into this All Star Weekend, which just has no buzz. I had a phone call earlier today with someone who is affiliated, closely affiliated with a monster NBA star. He told me, this person that for the first time in almost 20 years, he is skipping All Star Weekend. And, and made a point of telling me it's not because I've gotten old. It's not because I don't like to have a good time. There's just like no buzz. There's just nothing going on.
Don Hahn
And outside of certain markets, certainly there's a buzz around the Knicks because of the season that they're having. And I'm sure they're hyped up about the Celtics trying to repeat. And I'm sure there's tons of excitement in Oklahoma City and now la, now after the big trade. But really, we commented when the big trade was made between Dallas and la, it had been kind of a boring regular season that could set up for a fantastic postseason.
Peter Rosenberg
Yeah, seems like maybe a great final stretch.
Don Hahn
Yeah. Because I think that's kind of the byproduct of so many teams being in it and positioning not mattering as much to some teams because you might go into the playoffs with five or six teams thinking they have a legitimate shot of making a run, and that's going to make for a real Fun postseason, but in the regular season, it kind of takes a little of the shine away from it because doesn't matter if the Celtics finish in second or third. You know, the Cavaliers, they're not exactly a Sexy team post LeBron. They're the best team. When the two best teams are Cleveland and Oklahoma City, that's not exactly going to create a tremendous buzz around a regular season. But once you get to the postseason, are those teams legit? And then the Celtics and the Knicks come out to play, and the Lakers and the Nuggets come out to play, and then it becomes a lot of fun. So I'm not surprised that the All Star Game is basically kind of taking the theme from what's been kind of a pedestrian twiddle your thumbs regular season that I hope will now parlay into a tremendously exciting postseason.
Peter Rosenberg
Now, you did mention this. Well, you mentioned the Knicks. We're talking All Star Weekend. And of course we will get Jalen Brunson in the three point Shootout. That's a, that's something that is. Have a little.
Don Hahn
And you get the logo too. So what's wrong with that?
Peter Rosenberg
Yeah, there's something.
Don Hahn
I mean, it's not, it's not prime Lillard, but it's Lillard.
Peter Rosenberg
Who else? Who are the other. Who are the others?
Don Hahn
You know, that's all I got for you.
Peter Rosenberg
Well, we'll get that for you. And we're also going to go over some of the greatest moments in All Star history. Because, guys, there are times there in our past when All Star Weekend was. I mean, to talk about something big going on, just absolutely awesome. So maybe we'll take your calls throughout the day as well. Your favorite memories from All Star Weekend. Because if you're out there and you're a youngster, you may not realize what NBA All Star Weekend was like up until basically, I'd say like five, six years ago. Don, what year was the freezing year in New York? Was it 2016 or 17? Oh, I know. No, no, it was 10 years ago because it was. SNL was celebrating their 40th anniversary.
Don Hahn
Okay. Yeah.
Peter Rosenberg
And now they're celebrating 50. In fact, tonight is the concert at Radio City Musical. So it was 10 years ago already. It was 2015 was all star in New York. It was a frigid, brutal weekend. But Don, it was still mage at that point. Like, you know, and there's a conversation to be had about how after Kobe left, the game itself basically fell off a cliff. Because you need that guy in the All Star Game who's. Who's the best player in the league or the most respected player in the league who can set the tone for how this thing goes. And I don't think right now that as much as I respect LeBron James, as much as I respect Steph Curry, are the, are the sort of legendary players who are still playing Don, Are they the type that's going to set the tone of we go hard during the All Star Game? I don't know.
Don Hahn
That's what, that's all anybody cares about. Are you, are they going to care about the game? Why? As attractive as these players are to watch, do you have any appetite to watch players go out there and perform when they don't care?
Peter Rosenberg
The answer for me would be no, I have not.
Don Hahn
And what you've seen from the four nations on the hockey side, the alternative to an All Star game that also hockey players wouldn't care about is that they actually care about representing their country and they want to go out there and win and they're given all out. And I think that's why people have reacted to it because there are games that have meaning. Why would I watch a bunch of guys basically go from their regular season almost not meaning anything to now all getting together in the same city and play a game that doesn't mean anything?
Peter Rosenberg
Well, you know what? I don't know if the NBA is going to end up following what the NHL is doing, but I will say the four nations thing makes you think if you haven't yet watched any watch tomorrow night, USA Canada, 8:00 on ABC. Even if this is not the exact format, even if it ends up just being USA versus the world, right? And, and maybe you make it that simple for the All Star format and, and, and Don maybe like maybe the winner gets home court advantage the next year. So like maybe if world were to beat us, the US in Salt Lake City the next year they play in friggin Serbia. But something to spice this thing up because it is not hot right now.
Don Hahn
Well just make it, make it mean something. And playing for your country means something. Now the question is, do the NBA players feel that same level of excitement representing their country the way they do in hockey? We thought the same thing in baseball when the World Baseball Classic started and now that we've seen it, yeah, the players do seem to care. Now maybe they don't care as much in the United States, but if you see other countries you're playing care, then don't. All of a sudden you kind of follow suit. So I think the NBA players The ones that at least would want to play would want to represent their country. Now, winning an NBA championship is everybody's dream in North America. But around the world, getting a chance to represent your country, to be able to break away from where you normally play in the NBA and your different state that you represent or city you represent, to be able to go out there and wear your flag on your jersey, now you got, now you got something and you can create some sort of a format and we'll see. Ratings have been good for this North. We didn't get today's rate, the rating for last night. And I would think it would be pretty good considering it involved the United States. But we got to do something now. These all Star games are ridiculous. And let's not sit there and throw flowers at Major League Baseball. Baseball has it easy. They've got no competition in the middle of the summer and their game doesn't change all that much. But still, you saw what happened after the tie. They tried to make it mean something by giving you a home field advantage. And it was a joke. Players still don't care. It's just that more people watch it because there's really nothing else going on.
Peter Rosenberg
And at least it resembles the game.
Don Hahn
And it resembles the actual game that you play. You can't play an actual hockey game, an actual basketball game, an actual football game. So I would love to be able to see the NBA try to do something like this. And I'm in copycat leagues. We see that all the time. So I would like to say I think you would rather see that than whatever they're going to put together this weekend.
Peter Rosenberg
1-800-919-3776. We'll start taking your phone calls in just a minute. First though, we'd be remiss, wouldn't we, Don, if we didn't get you caught up with the Marcus Stroman of it all. If you haven't here heard it, Marcus Stroman finally showed up to camp to pitchers and catchers. And here's Stroman being asked why, why show up now?
Marcus Stroman
Just felt like today was a good day to come. Valentine's Day, feel like the vibes are going to be proper, you know.
Don Hahn
Yeah.
Marcus Stroman
Happy on this day. So, like it was a good to come.
Peter Rosenberg
All right.
Don Hahn
At least it was earlier than people anticipated.
Peter Rosenberg
Some more on, on showing up to camp.
Marcus Stroman
I mean, at this stage, my career, I put a priority on obviously getting my body ready. Yeah, I don't think there was a, a need for me to be here. The in the last few days, given the climate, you know, I talked to Boonie. We had a great conversation. Everything's honestly perfect and seamless. My relationship, the guys in the clubhouse hasn't changed. So, yeah, I feel great to be back and. And I'm ready to roll now.
Peter Rosenberg
Question for Marcus. Here's where things get interesting. What about the prospect of working out of the bullpen?
Don Hahn
Could you handle being a reliever? I'm a starter.
Marcus Stroman
I'm a starter.
Peter Rosenberg
So right now you're the 6 starter. So how do you handle that?
Marcus Stroman
See how it plays out? I'm starting. I'm starting.
Peter Rosenberg
You do not want to pitch in bullpen.
Marcus Stroman
I want to pitch a bullpen.
Don Hahn
I'm starting.
Marcus Stroman
I'm starting.
Peter Rosenberg
That conversation continued with a little bit more of a back and forth and a possible shot at Brian Cashman.
Marcus Stroman
I'll be completely honest, I haven't thought about tomorrow. So to. I'm just being the state that I'm in, the perspective that I live through. It's hard for me to even look past to a moment that there's so many unpredictables that can happen up until that point. I'm not someone who lives on that level of uncertainty. I'm very present and grounded, so I'm good.
Peter Rosenberg
When you say I'm not I'm a starter, though.
Don Hahn
Yeah, it sounds like a message to cast saying, I'm not in a rotation.
Peter Rosenberg
You better get rid of me because I'm not gonna.
Marcus Stroman
You think me saying I'm a starter is I'm a starter. That's like me making the most basic brief statement. I'm start my entire career. Go look at the numbers and how many people can stay healthy and do it 30 plus starts year after year after year. Especially after being the one that they said could never do it at my size. I'm a starter.
Peter Rosenberg
And last one I'll play for right now, Don. Then I want to hear what you have to say. Do you want to remain a Yankee, Marcus?
Marcus Stroman
I'm so grounded and calm, man. I truly float through life with the grace now. Took a lot of work, but I'm good. I'm good wherever I may be. I love everybody in this clubhouse. Everybody knows that. You can ask my teammates the relationship I have with them. I think that's the best way to truly tell the character of a person is to go to the teammates and ask. I spend the most time with them inside that clubhouse. I spend the least time with people who are reporting on me right now. And that seems like a lot of the narrative and Perspectives come from this group. So if you go in that clubhouse and ask anybody about me, like I said, feel free.
Don Hahn
We'll see. We'll see how the players feel about it.
Peter Rosenberg
Well, we don't have players, but they did ask Aaron Boone about Stroman arriving. Oh, I mean, glad he's here today.
Don Hahn
You know, again, I think I know you guys talk to him, as I've maintained with you. He really is in a good frame of mind, and I think he's ready to go physically, mentally, you know, had.
Richard
Even had a fun, good talk with him.
Don Hahn
A couple of our coaches in my.
Richard
Office just catching up, too, today. So he's ready to go, and it's.
Don Hahn
Our job to help him get ready and, yeah, hopefully put it behind us.
Peter Rosenberg
Well, Don, what do you make of this?
Don Hahn
Well, Stroman can't help himself because there is a way to show bravado, to tell the world that you are a starter without it getting contentious. And the way you do that is say, I've got all of spring training here to prove that I'm a starter. Right now, there are six starters. You may think I'm number six. I'm going to prove you wrong. Now, he's not beating out Cole Freed or Rodin, you wouldn't think. But, hey, maybe he can outpit Schmidt. Schmidt got hurt last year, could get hurt again. You know, Luis Heel was the rookie of the year, but he can have a sophomore jinx. So rather than being contentious about I'm a starter and not even talk about the bullpen, just say, all right, we'll see. I'm here. I reported the camp, and I'm going to try to win myself a job. And if he goes out there and pitches well, makes the decision very difficult, or it could become a complete moot point if somebody ends up getting hurt, which somebody always does. Peter, at some point, somebody's going to miss a start in the spring. Somebody's going to feel a twinge in their elbow or shoulder. It's not going to be a big deal. And all of a sudden, Stroman's going to find himself in a position to steal a job, and he knows that. So I don't know why he needs to get contentious. I'm gonna go out there and prove to everybody that I'm worth the $18 million I'm getting paid, and I'm gonna be one of those five starters on opening day. And I think you could applaud that attitude, but why does it have to be so snippy? I'm a Starter. I'm a starter. Well, yeah, but you're also one of six starters and they only have a five man rotation, so you don't have to be that guy. Just show confidence and say, I'll show you. You think I'm going to the bullpen, Watch me. I'm gonna make it impossible for them to move me to the bullpen.
Peter Rosenberg
And by the way, like saying that exact thing that you just said, Don, it's like not that hard. It would be. It wouldn't have been out of bounds for him to say. I haven't even thought about the idea of working from the bullpen. I've loved being a starter. I still have this stuff. I. I'm gonna show everybody I'm a starter. Right, but in you. This is what guys do, though, who are nozzles. Okay. And I'm. And listen, I'm not. I'm not saying Marcus Stroman is a bad guy.
Don Hahn
No, there is a difference. We went over this with Aaron Rodgers.
Peter Rosenberg
We went over this with Aaron Rodgers. We went over with Kyrie at times. In spite of the fact that he went to Duke. Duke doesn't mean bad guy, but it does often mean nozzle for some reason. You didn't.
Don Hahn
He would.
Peter Rosenberg
Being a nozzle here is. Is always saying that little thing that spurs more conversation, but then blaming that conversation on other people. That's what nozzles do. That's what Aaron Rodgers will do. He'll bring something up that will clearly spark conversation, clearly get people going that he knows is provocative, and then when it gets brought back to him goes you people. The press like to make things about it. Go ask my teammates. I mean, I'm sorry, Marcus. In that moment, them asking whether you'd work from the bullpen is such a logical thing to ask because the more harsh question could be, and it still would have been fair. Don. Hey, after the playoffs last year and you're not making the roster, do you think you have any place on this team?
Don Hahn
Right.
Peter Rosenberg
That would have been a fair question. That would be in.
Don Hahn
They didn't say that because he's giving off the attitude as if like he's been disrespected in some way. That was the no brainer decision not to have him on the roster because he is a starting pitcher and he wasn't a very good one. So it made a decision pretty easy. He is somebody that got out like a house on fire as he usually does, but he seems to break down or not be as effective in the second half of the season that's why Brian Cashman said, hey, I don't regret signing him because we got off to a great start with him, we were able to win the division with him, but then eventually he ends up not being a player. Now, maybe if he could work out of the bullpen, was a little bit more open minded about it, he might find himself on the postseason roster, might find himself still a Yankee. But Peter, $18 million for a starter is not a lot of money. If you're good, so go out there and be good. The Yankees want to win. They're not going to cut off their nose despite their face. If he beats out the other starters at the bottom of the rotation, he'll be given that opportunity. And if not, then somebody else in Major League Baseball will go, hey, did you see Marcus Stroman spraying? Man, he's tearing it up and we just lost the starter to Tommy John. Let's go trade for him. So if the attitude is just different and not contentious and just have confidence in yourself, hey, I'm a starter because that's all I know how to do and that's what I want to do. And I'm going to go show everybody that I can do it. If not here, then maybe someplace else. So I don't think he's that far off, but I don't think it has to, you know, to shut down the bullpen. He didn't have to do it in a negative way, Peter. He could have done it in a more confident belief in himself way instead of it getting to the back and forth that you heard earlier this morning.
Peter Rosenberg
But again, I have to maintain that that's because that's kind of his thing. That's kind of what he does. And there is a. Guys, there has been a thing with Stroman everywhere and we knew there'd be a thing here at some point, Don, but I'm not going to lie to you, this has become a tough situation for him. You know, you get to that point in your career and we talked about this with Michael on the case show when they signed him, statistically, the numbers showed Stroman was heading the wrong direction. Like, he can tell you about the numbers all he wants, but unfortunately we know with this sport, Don, they have the numbers there. And frankly, he's still got a very favorable, most would say overly favorable contract from the Yankees because of the predicament they were in with their starting pitching. And Don, in the end he didn't have enough to go in the playoffs. And I totally understand why that would put you in a bad space. And I think, Don, tell me what you think about this. The fact that he emphasized the great place that he's in, the fact that Boone emphasized the great place that he's in, that's being emphasized because the place he was in after the playoffs was obviously bad. And it makes sense why that's hard.
Don Hahn
I just don't know why he would feel any disrespect that it was the thing to do in the postseason. And what we Are you upset they got Max Freed? Do you think you're better than him? Like so. And they gave you the money that most people looked upon was an overpay. So just take the opportunity that you have and take advantage of it.
Peter Rosenberg
But listen, I'm telling you, it's because he felt away about the playoffs and it's still there.
Marcus Stroman
Get in zone.
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Don Hahn
But what if the fix is too tough?
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Peter Rosenberg
Get in the zone.
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Peter Rosenberg
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Don Hahn
Run your way@newbalance.com running thanks for listening.
Peter Rosenberg
To the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast. I didn't listen to anything you just said. Catch this show on demand whenever you want. Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts. A beautiful cap, beautiful rendition. Excuse me, that sounds a little suspra. At some point I need the full. I want to hear the full use of cap from Alan Han. At some point. Welcome back. It's Don Hahn and Rosenberg. It is Peter Rosenberg and Don Lagreca. Today Allen is off Don Is the. Is the SNL50 concert tonight at Radio City? Is that live on Peacock?
Don Hahn
I don't know.
Peter Rosenberg
Is that. It's no better than me as well. You don't know? Why am I asking you? Even I think it's. I think it's live. And then. And then the big SNL 50s tomorrow to follow it up. Right?
Don Hahn
I can't believe it's been 10 years this weekend. Because you brought up the 40th anniversary. And the thing I remember, like, you know, Eddie Murphy just basically coming out and taking a bow and not really doing anything. Like. That was 10 years ago. Wow.
Peter Rosenberg
No, the concert is tonight. It's live on peacock at 8 o'clock. A lot of people are on it. I mean, on Peacock, they list Jimmy Fallon, Backstreet Boys, Bad Bunny, Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus. But there's way more than that. The lineup's deep. Don John, do you have Peacock vehicle in the house?
Don Hahn
I do not.
Peter Rosenberg
So you don't even have the option.
Don Hahn
I do not have the option, though.
Peter Rosenberg
So tonight, there's no world in which you can watch. You want to know the full list of who's performing?
Don Hahn
Yeah, why not?
Peter Rosenberg
This may affect you.
Don Hahn
Okay.
Peter Rosenberg
You may. You may at least want to go get the, like, you know, the free trial. Okay. Got Arcade Fire, who I know you're a huge fan of. Backstreet Boys, Bad Bunny, Bonnie Raitt, Brandi Carlisle, Brittany Howard, Cher, Chris Martin, Dave Grohl, David Byrne, Devo, Eddie Vedder, Jack White, Jelly Roll, Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus, Lauryn Hill, who they listed M for Miss Lauryn Hill, Mumford and Sons, Post Malone, Preservation Hall, Jazz Band, Robin, Snoop Dogg, St. Vincent, the B52s, the Roots and Wyclef are who are listed for tonight's show. Now. I don't know. I don't. I don't know if that means they'll also be special guests or not. And of course, I don't know if we'll also get more, like, special music stuff on the actual SNL50 show as well. What? That is a lot to handle in one day, by the way.
Don Hahn
That is amazing.
Peter Rosenberg
I mean, in one week, the. The concert and the live snl. All right, let's get to the phone lines. A lot of people calling about a variety of things. And we're going to get to all of you. Most importantly, out of the gate, Henry in South Carolina wants to review the show. Henry.
Richard
Don. Peter. How you doing? Well, we are. I thought we were going to live life on the free and easy today, but then couldn't believe my ears when Peter decided to throw it to the Marcus Stroman story.
Peter Rosenberg
Listen, listen. I wanted to show my professionalism early, and it happens to be a story that I actually have some interest in, so it kind of worked for two purposes.
Richard
But.
Peter Rosenberg
No, no, don't worry. We'll also be off the rails. Don't you worry.
Don Hahn
Yeah. When you're a kid and your mom lets you have some candy, you don't just sit there and just, like, pound for an hour straight. You got a whole. You got a whole four hours to enjoy yourself.
Richard
Don, if I had. If I had known this when I was a kid, I wouldn't be the size that I am. Large, large man. Large, large man.
Peter Rosenberg
I respect what you're saying.
Richard
There you go. There you go. So, anyway, my initial reason for calling was we're about a month and a half into the Don Hahn Rosenberg experiment, and I've been a loyal listener of all iterations of your work, including Hot 97. Peter. And I thought I would share with you some thoughts I had and wonder what you know and get your thoughts on them. Is that okay?
Don Hahn
Sure.
Peter Rosenberg
Yeah. Yeah.
Richard
All right. So. So for context, it all comes from love. I connect with you guys on big ways. Don, I'm a North Jersey guy. When I hear you every day, it's like hearing my dad again, only he knows more about sports this time around. You know what I mean? And, Peter, I. I connect with you very. I think our hip hop tastes aligned really, really well. So.
Peter Rosenberg
Okay.
Richard
So I will say, though, there's a lot there. There's definitely a lot there. So I will say, though, going into the DHR of it all, as we, you know, even from the. I've listened to every minute of the show so far through the podcast mostly, and my expectation was. And this is no shot at Alan Hahn, but I really did think this was, like, the time that Don would be driving the show. I thought that what we'd have was, you know, especially given that he's the first name you hear and well deserved. In fact, I did expect there to be more of a wolf pack sort of feel, you know, maybe the long summers about Michael. And I kind of expected that. And. And I've had to take a little time to get used to Alan Han, But I like. I really do like the guy now. I'm a big fan now. He's gotten me into the Knicks again, which is really exciting. But that was part of my expectation. And I thought, you know, this one a little bit for Anthony. I thought it Might be a little more, I don't know. I missed the drops. I feel like there's a little less drops this time than there was maybe deep toward the end of Michael K. Not that he's, not that he's over. He's fine. I heard him a minute ago. Let's see here. I wrote a few things.
Peter Rosenberg
You wrote notes down.
Richard
No, not, not a lot. Not a long list. This isn't a dawn top five. Just, just a couple thoughts I had.
Peter Rosenberg
Okay, well, we already had a couple thoughts here, but. All right, keep going. Okay, let's get through.
Richard
I'll give you, I'll give you one more. I'll give you one more because I don't want to take up too much your time. I will say I know that the Simon, the simulcast is gone, but I think that there is a noticeable difference in the chemistry between you three when you guys are together. Now, I know a lot of that was out of your guys control. It was a hectic start, I think, with like almost all of your lives in the very beginning of the show. But I think that there's a noticeable difference and an improved difference when you guys are all together. And I think that that is going to really help the show find its, its footing as we go on because this is no doubt going to last a long time. Time.
Peter Rosenberg
And I'm excited Overall, Henry, to wrap up the last 30 minutes, you overall, you're sorry? No, no, I'm just busting your chops. But you're overall, you're happy?
Richard
Oh, I'm thrilled. I get, I get four more hours of Peter Rosenberg a day. I mean, how could I not be?
Peter Rosenberg
You know what?
Richard
I just, I think I just had to temper some of my expectations going into it. And now that it's been a month and a half, I'm very, very pleased. Like I said, I thought every single.
Don Hahn
Minute of the I, I, I, I think that I speak for everyone on the show when I say thanks, Tessa and Wes Caldwell. You're on ESPN New York. How are you, Tessa?
Peter Rosenberg
Oh, my God.
F
Hi, guys. Thanks so much for taking my call. Hope baby Maya is doing well. God, I'm so upset. Yesterday I was on hold because of course I wanted to wish you happy birthday. Then I had emergency at work, I had to get off, then came back on. But I was on hold for you to say happy birthday. But I just really want to wish you a happy belated birthday. I just want to wish you, you know, all the joy you deserve to continue. Health, blessing, success, stay true to who who you are forever, Don, I'm not joking. Like, you are one of the only people that could rent blackout at 305 and then 308. Okay? And I'm like that too, Don. You know what I mean? Like, we're connected like that. We can black out. We're kindred spirits and be totally fine at 3:11. And people look at us like we're cycles, but we're not. That's just, like, what we can do.
Don Hahn
But thank you.
F
Please stay true to who you are. Thank you guys so much. I did want to make a comment about the hockey game. I'm. I know I talk so much about the Giants, Lakers and Yankees, but I'm. I'm a hockey fan as well. I go to Devil's games. I love the Devil. So it felt good to see Jack Hughes out there with the assist and all that. But you guys are correct. It really was entertaining. And I really was, like, locked. Like, I really wasn't flipping through the channels. Like, I was literally watching it because it was competitive. You can tell they wanted to win. And then when they started, like, thrashing them, they kept it on. Like, they kept their foot on their necks. Like, we're not. We're going to beat you up real bad. And it was just really exciting to see that, you know, they wasn't worried about, like, oh, getting hurt. Let's not do this, let's not do that. You know, I just thought it was interesting and I just thought it was really, really, really exciting. And you're right. I do feel like the other teams, like, I'm not gonna front. I'm okay with what the NFL is doing now with the flag football and all the stuff like that. I think at least that's competitive. And they are trying. But you write basketball now is a joke. Like, I don't even know what they're doing. Like, they need to come up with something else with that because. And you write baseball. She's like, okay. But they do need to take a page out of that book because with basketball is just not the same. And I understand you're in the middle of the season, but they just have to come up with something else. So Don and Peter, like, do you have any suggestions of maybe what they could come up with? Like, I don't care. What if it's just two quarters, you know what I mean? Or just one quarter of just really hard playing and let's get it and be over with it. Like, I prefer one hard quarter than four alley youth quarters. Playing quarters. Nobody's Running down the court quarters like, what suggestions do you have maybe that can make the NBA more interesting for All Star?
Don Hahn
Well, the, the only thing Tessa, we talked about is if you wanted to go to more of the international play like they're doing with the four nations, I don't know what you could do. Baseball did the home field advantage for the World Series didn't work because there's a lot of teams by the time they get to the All Star break. No. Their team has no chance of going to the World Series. So it didn't matter and I didn't think it was right to do anyway. Peter, did you to have a exhibition game, decide who would play game seven of the World Series where. I just, I don't, I don't. I think it is what it is. If you're going to keep it as presently constituted, you're just going to have to live with it being just a bore and get it over with. Unless you're really going to think outside the box. But every, everything that they've tried now with the draft, it just, it doesn't do anything. I have no. I'm out of suggestions. Unless you want to do like a four nations or an international thing where you're representing your country in that way. I don't see how you can spice up any of these All Star games.
Peter Rosenberg
Let's keep things going on the very, very busy phone lines. Yeah. I don't know what the, what the play here is. There is a play. There has to be something to make it better. I just don't know exactly.
Don Hahn
How do you. How do you get them to care? How do you get LeBron James to go out there and treat that All Star Game like it's a game seven? How do you do it or even treat it like it's a regular season game? He needs to win? How do you, how do you make that happen? What money is that? What you're going to do is just. The winner makes a billion dollars. I don't know what you can do.
Peter Rosenberg
There's enough money to make it impact.
Don Hahn
There's not enough money feasible to give the offer them that they're going to go out there and kill themselves for rebound. You want a loose ball and a guy to die for risking his separated shoulder because he doesn't want to lose the ball in an All Star game. You can't even get them to do that in a regular season, for God's sakes. That's why the playoffs are so much fun, because they're must win games and Everybody's going at it. That's what makes it fun. People wanting something. But thanks want it. You don't care.
Peter Rosenberg
Don, you really leveled that guy who first called to the show. Chris.
Don Hahn
Thanks. And please don't misunderstand that as me being sensitive to his criticism. We just needed to move on. If your call could actually make a podcast, you got to trim it down. Mean he had a list of stuff.
Peter Rosenberg
The hard part was I had no problem with his take. It was thoughtful. He loves the show. He loved the old show and he's making. I totally dig it. But at the end, when you go now, let me look at. At the list. And you'd already been talking for a full five minutes. That's where you start running into problem.
Don Hahn
And you're saying, you know, not to take up too much of your time, that that ship sailed. It's across the ocean already.
Peter Rosenberg
Like, if we were to look at longest calls of the week, that one is number one. And like Richard's distantly behind. Let's go to. Let's go to Mike in Staten Island. Hey, Mike. Mike.
Don Hahn
Hello, Mike.
Peter Rosenberg
So long, Staten Island. Hey, our good friend Alex Fuse in ESPN Publicity.
Don Hahn
Yes.
Peter Rosenberg
Texted me something that I have to tell you. I had the same thought cross my mind. Don. What do you think about a daily. Don Top five SNL characters.
Don Hahn
I believe I did it during COVID I did.
Peter Rosenberg
You already do it. I think you.
Don Hahn
But I'm trying. Did I. I don't know if I did top five talent or top five like characters. I'd have to. I kept it all. I got them in a notebook. But it might be worth revisiting me. Covid was five years ago. I can't imagine anything new would end up on there.
Peter Rosenberg
No, no. By the way, the SNL concert is tonight on Peacock. The SNL 50th anniversary show is Sunday night on NBC, which I always find weird. They did this at 42. That they run the the best of a show called Saturday Night Live on Sunday is odd to me, Don, even though I get it. It just shows the power of Sunday tv, I suppose.
Don Hahn
I guess.
Peter Rosenberg
Quick Game time brought to you by Tully More. Do Irish Whiskey. Because when it's game time, it's Tully time. The NBA and NHL are in break, but we have the NBA All Star Celebrity Game on ESPN at 7 and the Rising Stars game at 9. Right here on 880. Following Jake Asmon, who's coming up after us. Tullamore Dew, the original triple distilled, triple blended and triple cask matured Irish whiskey. Be sure to grab a Tully or try the new Tullimore Dew honey during today's action. Glasses up to enjoying Tullamore Dew responsibly. Got to tell you guys about my friends over at Bat Fitter. They remodeled my bath. Did an incredible job. They customized it for my needs. Process was easy, one expert installer and it was done in a day. No demo, no mess and bath that is a permanent high quality solution with a lifetime guarantee. 3 million happy customers like me lock in 2024 pricing. Get 0% interest for 30 months. Start designing your bath today like I did@bathfitterdesign.com there's only one bath fitter.
Don Hahn
I can say to my new Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. Hey, find a keto friendly restaurant nearby and text it to Beth and Steve. And it does without me lifting a finger so I can get in more squats anywhere I can. 1, 2, 3. Will that be cash or credit? Credit. 4 Galaxy S25 Ultra the AI companion.
Ellen
That does the heavy lifting so you can do.
Don Hahn
You get yours@samsung.com compatible with select apps.
Marcus Stroman
Requires Google Gemini account.
Don Hahn
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Peter Rosenberg
The Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast. I didn't listen to anything you just said. Catch the show on demand whenever you want. Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts. Oh, Doobie Brothers. That's what you're doing like to dream about. I totally get it guys.
Don Hahn
What's that?
Peter Rosenberg
Well, the Doobie Brothers are coming to see Coming to PNC bank art Center on August 7th and Northwell at Jones Beach Theater on August 10th, 2025. That's coming up this summer to you and me and ESPN New York has your chance to score tickets to the venue of your choice on the ESPN New York app. All you got to do is scroll down to contest and submit your entry. It's all brought to you by Live Nation. Tickets are on sale now@ticketmaster.com I got to check my account on what day of the. What day of the week August 10th is. I might have to be in there for that.
Don Hahn
I'm not being. I'm not. I'm not joking. But I love the episode of what's Happening when the Doobie Brothers are on. You ever see it?
Peter Rosenberg
I've heard of it. I've never seen it. It's a Sunday, August 10th. I might have to go.
Don Hahn
Doobies are. That's. They're great. I read that book.
Peter Rosenberg
Is that different than the what's Going down episode of that's My Mama?
Don Hahn
It's a little different, yeah.
Peter Rosenberg
The Doobie Brothers episode of what's Happening is not the same as the what's Going down episode of that's My Mama. No.
Don Hahn
And there was a show. That was a show, by the way. They didn't. He didn't make that up.
Peter Rosenberg
Oh, I know.
Don Hahn
It was short lived, or short lived, however you're supposed to say that. But the doobies are great. I mean, if you're a certain age you grew up with, you know, listen to the music. All black water. Oh, it's great stuff. And Michael McDonald's a gem.
Peter Rosenberg
And guess what? Looks just like you. If anyone wants to know what Ballard's Valentine's Day plans are, Ballard has weighed in and he's told me, price, fix, menu suck. Reservations are tough to get. Smart couples stay home on Friday and celebrate with, you know, flowers or some chocolate, something thoughtful, maybe a homemade meal, a quiet movie. He. I just realized now, after quiet movie, he included another word. That's an inappropriate thing for me to say on the radio.
Don Hahn
But also he's suggesting like Netflix and chill.
Peter Rosenberg
Correct.
Don Hahn
All right.
Peter Rosenberg
And then you go out on Saturday and you get the easier reservation. And now it's a lukewarm take at best because I think everybody knows that with a weekend like this, you have options. We went out last night for our dinner. Our real out dinner was last night. Went to Strip house, got a marvelous steak, a bevy of sides. We did a shrimp cocktail. Don. We got cream spinach, we got brussels sprouts, we got the whip mashed potatoes and the gnocchi. Four sides, nice. But we shared the steak. Got itself a beautiful slice of 24 layer chocolate cake like you dream about. But yeah, the idea, I mean, listen, kudos to you if you have reservations someplace good tonight.
Don Hahn
Yeah.
Peter Rosenberg
Then good for you. But it's a tough night to get the res, but.
Don Hahn
And it's tough for me because my birthday is the day before, so we really couldn't do anything last night because by the time I got back from the city was after 8:00. And it's nothing you can do. The kids have already eaten. So we're gonna probably do something this weekend incorporating Valentine's Day and my birthday. And then you bring the kids. It's a different vibe than if you're single. It's a different vibe newly married.
Peter Rosenberg
It's not Netflix and chill.
Don Hahn
That's the other thing too. You gotta. She's too young. But I incorporate Jalen into the Valentine's Day.
Peter Rosenberg
That's, that's become.
Don Hahn
She gets a little something, you know, so it's too early for, for Maya to appreciate it, but at some point you're gonna have to. It just changes the whole vibe. Valentine's Day, by the way, that it.
Peter Rosenberg
When did, when did that become a thing? The incorporating the daughter into the, into the Valentine's Day thing.
Don Hahn
But if you're getting mommy flowers and your daughter's old enough to say, where's mine? I love my daughter too. It's why I get her a single rose every Valentine's Day.
Peter Rosenberg
I just feel like it didn't used to be a thing and now it's a thing.
Don Hahn
There's a lot of Valentine's used to not be a thing until Hallmark started.
Peter Rosenberg
By the way. My parents. Let me tell you something right now. Valentine's Day in my house is like. It's like something that I know my parents know exists.
Don Hahn
Right?
Peter Rosenberg
But it, but it might as well not exist. Let's be honest though.
Don Hahn
Some.
Peter Rosenberg
Some men, my father included, there's literally trying is not even an option. Did your, did your dad try at all? I'd be honest.
Don Hahn
I remember him getting flowers and a card. But I don't sense a lot of trying though now. He was a great husband, don't get me wrong. But he didn't. He was judged on Valentine's Day.
Peter Rosenberg
But let's be real, the bar was different back then.
Don Hahn
Well, listen, the bar was definitely different. I mean, this was like, you talk about like the dead puck era or you know, the dead ball era. There's an era of like husband and wives. Like the fact that your dad came home meant that he was a halfway decent husband, that he remembered your kids names.
Peter Rosenberg
It's, it's. Honestly, I think it's my favorite, most underrated take how literally. The bar that was set for dads up until this era was so different. Like, don't get me wrong, my dad was a great dad. I felt loved. You know, he definitely had an Interest and cared about all my stuff. My dad maybe came to. I think if I said in my entire life my dad came to five of my games.
Don Hahn
Wow.
Peter Rosenberg
I don. If I said that, I'd say it, but I would be lying. I definitely wouldn't have a memory of it. It would be like hopeful McGovern, Democrat for the people. He. Listen, if McGovern was involved in the game, he'd be there. But he did not come to games. My mom went to every little dumb thing that I did. Like, I was no serious athlete, right? Like, I'm sure if I'd become some high level athlete, he would have gone. But, you know, I played on the varsity baseball team. I didn't get a lot of playing time. But guess what? My mom still came to the game and she sat with the other moms. It was part of the thing now.
Don Hahn
My dad was always there. My mom and dad, they definitely got involved in that. But I'm just saying that there were just things that. That the mom did that dad didn't do. Like there was a whole world that. Which dad take care of the house, you know, and. But it's changed. But I think there's a. There's a generation. If you look back at, like how things were in the 50s and 60s, you'd be appalled. But that's just the way it was. And now it's changed. We evolve as human beings, and that's the good thing.
Peter Rosenberg
I truly think the era of being a good father, like, really being a good father. I think that era is like the last 20 years. I'm not saying there weren't exceptions to the rule prior to that, but they were probably ostracized by their friends and called whipped. That's probably how they were treated. Like, what do you go home, you help your wife? What do you mean? Well, you take out the trash once a week. You only cheat a few times a year. And you make sure she. She gets your Pall Malls. That. That was the era, father. Yeah.
Don Hahn
With just a different world. And there's a reason why there was a whole. Wait till your father gets home. Do you think it was wait till your father gets home because he'll yell at you louder than I will? No, he had the stomach to take the belt out. So it's a different world. Right. It's just a dip. We evolve as human beings.
Peter Rosenberg
It's a different world. You know what? Maybe my new topic is did your dad do anything for Valentine's Day?
Don Hahn
Also thanks to Anthony.
Peter Rosenberg
Serious question. Any Valentine's Day Celebration among your parents?
Don Hahn
Yeah.
Richard
Dad gets mom flowers.
Peter Rosenberg
She does? He does?
Don Hahn
Yeah, Right. All the time.
Peter Rosenberg
Wow.
Don Hahn
Gas station around the corner. My dad's the best.
Peter Rosenberg
How. Well, how old. How old are your parents?
Don Hahn
I don't think they'd want me to tell you. Oh, really?
Peter Rosenberg
They're not gonna get recognized on the.
Don Hahn
Street for it, but 71, 73. Okay.
Peter Rosenberg
Wow.
Don Hahn
That's older for a 30 year old. Yes.
Peter Rosenberg
Well, there you go. Hence, got it now makes sense. And it actually makes me, your dad, more impressive because that's an older guy who is doing the right thing. Jacob, any Valentine's Day celebration in your house?
Don Hahn
Oh, no, honestly, my mom probably has my dad blocked right now. Oh, no, see, this went sideways. It really did. And listen, feel good, Anthony, because when they ask my kids when they're 30, how old's your dad? They're gonna say dead. So at least you could feel better about that.
Peter Rosenberg
I don't know if I want that for you either, but. By the way, Don, that's not locked in.
Don Hahn
No, it's Tom. Ch.
Peter Rosenberg
You got a shot.
Don Hahn
You got a shot. I'm gonna be a lot older than 70, too, I can tell you that. Thanks for listening to the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast.
Peter Rosenberg
I don't want to know how the sausage is made, man. I just want to know.
Don Hahn
It's good. Hear more of Don Allen and Peter, weekday afternoon starting at 3 on 8 80, ESPN, the ESPN New York app, and your smart speakers.
Ellen
All right, let me ask you something. Ever feel like you're juggling at all? Work, family responsibilities, and still trying to keep your eye on. Yeah. You're in Ander. And National University gets the hustle. That's why they have flexible online classes and support services for folks who are balancing jobs and kids and everything in between. If you're ready to take the next step, National University can help you level up your education and score your goals. Check them out at nu EDU to learn more.
Don, Hahn & Rosenberg: Hour 1 - "Stroman is a Starter" Summary
Release Date: February 14, 2025
In the premiere episode of "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg," listeners are treated to a dynamic blend of sports commentary, personal anecdotes, and engaging discussions. Hosted by ESPN New York’s Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg, this episode delves into the intricacies of baseball, the nuances of the NBA All-Star Weekend, and personal reflections on holidays and family. Below is a comprehensive summary capturing the key moments and insights from the episode.
The episode kicks off with the hosts exchanging light-hearted banter, setting an upbeat and collegial tone for the show. Peter Rosenberg shares a humorous behind-the-scenes anecdote about a disagreement with Alan Hahn over the show's intro, which culminated in a friendly reconciliation. This segment underscores the camaraderie among the hosts and highlights their ability to balance professionalism with personal rapport.
Notable Quote:
Don Hahn and Peter Rosenberg delve into the current NBA season, expressing concerns over the All-Star Weekend's dwindling excitement. They discuss the minimal buzz surrounding the event, attributing it to a lack of standout narratives and fan engagement. The hosts explore potential reforms, such as adopting formats similar to the NHL’s Four Nations, to reignite interest and competitiveness in the All-Star festivities.
Notable Quotes:
A significant portion of the episode focuses on Marcus Stroman's recent appearance at Yankee camp. Don and Peter analyze Stroman's determination to secure a starting pitcher role, dissecting his statements and the implications for team dynamics. They critique Stroman's assertive declarations about remaining a starter, discussing whether his attitude contributes positively or negatively to his standing with the team.
Notable Quotes:
Key Insights:
Listener Richard joins the conversation, providing feedback on the show's dynamics since its inception a month and a half ago. He expresses initial expectations for Don Hahn to take a more dominant role but acknowledges his growing appreciation for Alan Hahn's contributions. The discussion highlights the importance of host chemistry and adaptability in shaping the show's direction.
Notable Quotes:
Key Points:
In a heartfelt and relatable segment, the hosts and listeners share personal stories and reflections on celebrating Valentine’s Day, especially in the context of family and changing societal norms. The conversation touches on generational differences in expressing love and the challenges of balancing family life with personal relationships.
Notable Quotes:
Key Insights:
As the episode nears its conclusion, the hosts discuss upcoming events, including the SNL 50th Anniversary Concert featuring a star-studded lineup. They encourage listeners to engage with the show through calls and interactions on social media, fostering a sense of community and anticipation for future episodes.
Notable Quotes:
The first hour of "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" successfully blends insightful sports analysis with personal narratives, establishing a foundation for an engaging and multifaceted show. By addressing current sports topics, listener feedback, and relatable life events, the hosts create a connection with their audience, setting the stage for future conversations and community building.
Overall Notable Moments:
Listeners can anticipate a balanced mix of sports commentary, personal stories, and interactive segments as "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" continues to develop its unique voice in the ESPN New York lineup.