Hour 1: Volpe's Errors

Summary

Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 1: Volpe's Errors

Release Date: July 30, 2025

Hosts:

• Don LaGreca – ESPN New York and New Jersey's first voice.
• Alan Hahn – Longtime sportswriter and New York Knicks broadcaster.
• Peter Rosenberg – Hip Hop veteran and WWE personality.

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1. Introduction to the Episode

The episode kicks off with the hosts briefly mentioning a new Starbucks beverage, setting a casual and engaging tone before diving into the main topics of the day.

2. Anthony Volpe’s Defensive Struggles

Discussion Kickoff:

• Don LaGreca [00:46]: "Did you hear about yesterday?"
• Peter Rosenberg [00:48]: Confirms awareness of the previous day's events involving Anthony Volpe’s defensive errors.

Detailed Analysis:

• Peter Rosenberg [01:00]: Highlights his concerns about images of toenail clippings shared by the morning show, speculating on their origins without direct evidence.

• Don LaGreca [01:34]: Clarifies he wasn't responsible for the alleged hygiene issues, emphasizing he was seated with shoes and socks on, thus dismissing any direct involvement.

• Peter Rosenberg [02:25]: Introduces the theory that Volpe's defensive issues may stem from mental blocks or pressure, pointing fingers at team dynamics and possible overuse.

Notable Quote:

Peter Rosenberg [06:36]: "We're supposed to get to the bottom of things. We're supposed to..."

3. Yankees’ Roster Moves and Defensive Depth

Roster Adjustments:

• Peter Rosenberg [07:12]: Discusses the Yankees’ recent roster moves, including acquiring players like Rosario and McCann, interpreting these as insurance policies amidst Volpe’s defensive woes.

• Don LaGreca [09:19]: Agrees, noting the need for versatility and right-handed bats to balance the lineup.

Strategic Implications:

• Peter Rosenberg [10:37]: Emphasizes that with the playoff race intensifying, every error and run counts, pressing the Yankees to act decisively regarding Volpe’s performance.

4. Manager Aaron Boone’s Handling of Volpe

Boone’s Management Style:

• Don LaGreca [10:55]: Criticizes Boone for being too lenient, referencing a press conference where Boone was defensive about Volpe’s performance.

• Peter Rosenberg [12:42]: Analyzes Boone’s stance, suggesting that admitting issues is a positive step but highlighting the necessity for stronger action.

Mental Aspect:

• Don LaGreca [17:38]: Attributes Volpe’s errors to mental stress rather than lack of skill, advocating for organizational support rather than punitive measures.

Notable Quote:

Don LaGreca [18:12]: "I think he had one day, one game off this whole season. He's played more games than anybody on the roster."

5. Callers' Perspectives on Volpe and Yankees Standards

Caller Nick from Nutley [28:47]:

• Defense of Volpe: Shares personal experiences with "the yips" and urges the Yankees to support Volpe through psychological means.

• Don LaGreca [30:24]: Agrees, emphasizing that overcoming mental blocks is easier said than done and stressing the importance of organizational support.

Caller Dylan in the Car [33:39]:

• Further Defense: Argues that Volpe’s defensive mistakes shouldn't overshadow his offensive contributions and highlights his recent performance improvements.

• Don LaGreca [35:41]: Reinforces the need to support young players, acknowledging Volpe’s offensive prowess while still addressing the defensive concerns.

Notable Quote:

Don LaGreca [37:06]: "He's still, by the way, a guy who grew up a Yankees fan. He's a guy that grew up in the area, so he gets it."

6. Broader Discussion on Yankees' Legacy and Expectations

Yankees' Historical Standards:

• Don LaGreca [43:58]: Compares the current expectations to past Yankees' standards, stressing that the franchise should always aim to perform at a championship level, regardless of win totals.

• Peter Rosenberg [47:56]: Highlights the unique pressure Yankees face due to their storied legacy and financial muscle, making their current struggles more scrutinized.

Notable Quote:

Don LaGreca [50:00]: "Once again, if we are a corporation, well then you're..."

7. Closing Remarks and Upcoming Topics

The hosts briefly touch upon ongoing MLB situations, including the Mets’ lineup changes due to Juan Soto's injury and the Blue Jays' performance slump. They tease upcoming segments where both Don and Peter will share their top five picks on various subjects.

Final Note: The episode wraps up with a return to the ongoing game highlights, maintaining the focus on MLB discussions while setting the stage for future conversations.

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Key Takeaways:

• Anthony Volpe’s Defensive Issues: Central focus, with debates on whether it's a skill deficit or a mental block.
• Yankees’ Roster Strategy: Exploring whether recent acquisitions serve as temporary fixes or long-term solutions.
• Management and Support: Critique of Aaron Boone’s handling of player performance issues and the need for organizational backing.
• Fan and Caller Insights: Diverse perspectives from listeners defending Volpe and advocating for maintaining high standards.
• Legacy vs. Current Performance: Balancing the Yankees' historical expectations with their present challenges in the competitive MLB landscape.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Peter Rosenberg [06:36]: "We're supposed to get to the bottom of things. We're supposed to..."
• Don LaGreca [18:12]: "I think he had one day, one game off this whole season. He's played more games than anybody on the roster."
• Don LaGreca [30:24]: "He's still, by the way, a guy who grew up a Yankees fan. He's a guy that grew up in the area, so he gets it."
• Don LaGreca [43:58]: "It's not about winning the championship. It's about playing at a championship level..."
• Don LaGreca [50:00]: "Once again, if we are a corporation, well then you're..."

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This episode provides an in-depth analysis of Anthony Volpe's recent defensive struggles, the Yankees' strategic responses, and the broader implications for the team's legacy and current season aspirations. Through engaging discussions and listener interactions, the hosts offer multiple viewpoints on maintaining high performance standards within a storied franchise.

Transcript

[Don LaGreca]

Say hello to the new iced horchata.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Shaken espresso from Starbucks.

[Alan Hahn]

This handcrafted espresso drink with hints of.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Cinnamon and vanilla is shaken with ice and oat milk to create the perfect summer sip. Available for a limited time at Starbucks.

[Dan Grasse]

Ton.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I had never seen holes like that before. Han.

[Don LaGreca]

I'm not comfortable touching it. I'm not. No.

[Dan Grasse]

And Rosenberg.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I'm not breastfeeding. No, but I.

[Don LaGreca]

That's too bad.

[Peter Rosenberg]

This isn't North Dakota, this is New York.

[Dan Grasse]

This is Don, Han and Rosenberg threesome I've ever heard on 880 ESPN and the ESPN New York app 301 of the big city.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Don Hahn and Rosenberg with you until 7 o'.

[Caller]

Clock.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Nice to be back in the seat after a day off. Thanks to Ty Butler for holding down the fort with Alan.

[Don LaGreca]

Is that seat dry?

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yes.

[Don LaGreca]

Did you hear about yesterday?

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yes, I did listen to a portion of the show and I heard about what happened.

[Don LaGreca]

The squishy seat.

[Peter Rosenberg]

The squishy seat. Not great because of the sweaty mascots that I missed.

[Don LaGreca]

Lucky you.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But listen, it's a tough day to be 100 degrees wearing a mascot.

[Don LaGreca]

I am not blaming the outfit.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It's got to be difficult.

[Don LaGreca]

It was not. It was not easy. You heard a squish? Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I'm a little bit more concerned about the morning show tweeting out pictures of. Of toenail clippings on the floor of the studio. And by the way, I know who it is. I know who it is.

[Don LaGreca]

You know who it is?

[Peter Rosenberg]

I would bet my life who it is Now.

[Don LaGreca]

I don't.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I'm not prepared to say unless I'm going to be backed by. By my partner here. Oh, I'm ready. I mean, I don't have any evidence. I just know.

[Don LaGreca]

I just want to reveal for the record that I was sitting in that seat yesterday and I was probably so preoccupied by the wet, sweaty. I have right now what you would call a wet bottle. Yeah, that. I just.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That's what you call it. You described it.

[Don LaGreca]

Well, yeah, one of the things you call it describes it. Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Saucy ass.

[Don LaGreca]

That's a different. Yeah, that was. We'd use that too, but I didn't look down to see what I guess Dan Grasse is accusing of people clipping their toenails and leaving them on the floor under the seat. For the record, I had shoes on and socks on yesterday. Never took them off. Why would I. So don't even think about pointing your finger at me. And I apparently am the last one to sit in that Chair. Until this morning, there was nobody in the studio.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But maybe you just didn't know they might have been there for a couple of days.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah, I didn't.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I definitely sit there and analyze the floor. And I believe again, I don't want to be telling tales out of school, but do it. That the morning show was not here the day before. So it was their first time here. So I think they noticed. No, I just worked from home.

[Don LaGreca]

Oh. And then. Nice.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That just randomly. So they. So they're looking at clippings possibly, since you didn't notice them yesterday because you weren't. So that they could have been from a couple of days ago.

[Don LaGreca]

Oh, God.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Now. And we're. We're confident that they're toe and not fingernail.

[Don LaGreca]

Well, I may be a giant hand.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Right. Because. Because fingernail I get sometimes. You get.

[Don LaGreca]

I mean, I think I have the largest fingernails of all the hosts. You probably have the largest easily.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yes.

[Don LaGreca]

Those are like, that's Shrek fingernails.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Now we had what about a month ago, we had like a fire marshal from the. Somebody came to speak to us about what to do in case of an emergency with a fire. And we were told by that guy that had worked for the NYFD for years. He said, if you work in the city, do not under any circumstances wear flip flops. It's a death sentence wearing flip flops in the city. Because if God forbid, there's a fire, like how are you gonna. It's different going up and down stairs.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

So you should not be wearing flip flop.

[Caller]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But whoever left that wearing flip flops or open toed shoes or something.

[Don LaGreca]

So can you give me initials? I can. Now we give it away.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I'm gonna just tell you that is the workings of a former athlete because they're treating the studio like I would assume they treat the dressing room, slash locker room. And we have two prominent former athletes that work. Rick DiPietro and Bart Scott.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Now, DiPietro was a part of the exposure because he was in this morning when they revealed it. Now that could be.

[Don LaGreca]

But he wasn't sitting there.

[Peter Rosenberg]

No, but what I'm saying is why would the show he's on reveal something that he's doing? Unless it's a way to kind of deflect. So I'm going to say I believe with zero evidence, but with an educated guess on working with former athletes that I believe it's Bart Scott.

[Don LaGreca]

Where does Bart sit?

[Peter Rosenberg]

There you go. Bart sits in the.

[Don LaGreca]

And if he's sitting back with his feet there. Yes. You could argue that that's a general proximity of where toenails would land.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And I believe I have seen Bart wearing shoes would allow that to happen. Now, you worked with.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

So are you want to get on board, you want to, you want to lay out, or do you want to defend. You got three options here.

[Don LaGreca]

Well, I, I can tell you with full certainty that if we stood all of the hosts in a line and we had to pick somebody out of the group, Bart would be the first choice I would make. Now remember, I spent five years with him and I have seen all types of hygiene. I have seen all types of hijinks. I have seen him do things with food, with drink, with lotion. Everything. Yes, lotion. And that's why for me, I think you're right. He's very comfortable. We used to call it Bart's Pantry because in the other studio he had this gigantic bag that was filled with all types of different, you know, sauces. And anytime he got food, he would.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Well, it was a Frank's Hot Sauce around here somewhere.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah, somewhere.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I'm assuming that's his. Yeah.

[Don LaGreca]

So Bart's Pantry. So yes, he definitely would treat the studio like a locker room. Very comfortable. And so therefore I will support your theory.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Okay, so that's it. That's. It's just a theory. But if I had to have a theory, and that's what we're supposed to do here as talk show hosts, that we're supposed to get to the bottom of things. We're supposed to.

[Don LaGreca]

Okay, so we have solved toenail gate.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yes. And then. And we'll see if anybody else wants to. Again, the three options are defend, deflect, deflect, or layout. So we'll see how that, that works out. Now we're keeping an eye on the Blue Jays who are in free fall right now. It's amazing how things change in baseball, right? I take a day off and everything changes. Right. The Toronto's dropped four in a row. They got swept in a double header by Baltimore, who came into that double header. Double digits under.500. Yankees pick up a win last night. We'll get into that in a second. But the Yankees actually gain a game and a half now four back.

[Don LaGreca]

Four back. Yep.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Of the first place Blue Jays. And the Blue Jays, they were trailing in this game pretty much the whole way. They were down three nothing. They tie it at three, they fall behind five three. They take a nine four, nine five lead because then they were trailing five three. Now in the bottom of the seventh inning and the Orioles now their lead has been cut to 97 and the Orioles have the bases loaded with one out in the bottom of the seventh inning. So Toronto's about looks like about ready to blow a four run lead. So they're things very fluid. We bring this up because things change dramatically in baseball, right? You look at the Mets seven game winning streak riding high all of a sudden now they've dropped two in a row and everybody holding their breath after Soto is forced to leave the game fouling a ball off of his foot left the game. X rays were negative. He's not in the lineup this afternoon. That game could be heard on 880 coming up at the bottom of the hour and then of course you consume us on the app or on 1050 the rest of the way once that coverage begins. But now the Mets all of a sudden lose tuner. They're trying to avoid the sweep this afternoon. No Soto word is he should be in the lineup on Friday. So this is probably precautionary.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah we're negative.

[Peter Rosenberg]

No game tomorrow. They come back to take on the San Francisco Giants at Citi Field on Friday hopefully with a healthy soda. But it just shows you how fluid things are as we've now dipped under 27 hours remaining before the deadline. Yankees bring in Austin Slater. Not a big move. He's a right handed bat play the outfield with the only concern that I would show and I was not on yesterday. Allen, I know you talked about that following the Rosario pickup which is a guy that plays some outfield plays shortstop as well. We'll get the Volpe in a second. This, this makes me think they're all insurance policies just in case a judge comes back but can't play the field or judge doesn't come back at all. So I don't look at these as needle movers is more just insurance policy just in case things go sideways with Judge. You agree?

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah, I do and it's a lot of versatility in a lineup that was very heavy left handed to start the season. And I think that's one other part is you're trying to make sure you got righty bats available so I think that's important. But this does feel like the Justin case needing outfield depth and versatility because the feelings got to be that Judge is probably not going to play the field for the rest of at least the regular season. And you have to also think to yourself as I was saying this yesterday they were saying that he's not only is it an issue with throwing but in gripping the bat. And so he hit off a tee yesterday. You know, they'll see how he's feeling in 10 days and they're. The hope is the word that Boone used was hope that after 10 days they'll be able to get him back in the lineup. But they have to see how he responds. But it doesn't mean that in like a week's time of DHing that he's gripping the bat and that's he's starting to have discomfort there or one bad swing and now all of a sudden it's like we got to shut him down for the season. You've got to have enough in the outfield to be versatile and also to have guys to play. And so that's why you make moves like this. But the Rosario thing, I know he does play outfield, but he's an infielder.

[Peter Rosenberg]

He'S primarily a shortstop.

[Don LaGreca]

And that's where it leads us to the Volpe situation that feels like is finally coming to a head.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Now what is our criticism of Boone about his dealings with players? Post game press?

[Don LaGreca]

He's soft. He doesn't, he's not critical, not overly critical. He'll never call a player out well.

[Peter Rosenberg]

After two more errors last.

[Don LaGreca]

And let's remember too as we set this up that it was a couple of weeks ago that Meredith Merakovic just asked very innocent, obvious questions about Volpe's defense and the struggles that he's starting to have. And Boone, when he was done talking, left the press conference and yelled over to her, he's blanking elite as he walked out of the conference room. And that's a defiant manager who's feeling like the media is coming after my guy and I'm not going to let it happen. And all this time later it's like, you know what? So maybe that was a, the right questions to ask. And now his elite status is now in question.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And the error they committed in the first inning led to two runs. The Yankees were able to make it up and bottom half of that inning, 9, 8.

[Don LaGreca]

Now Baltimore scored another run on a basis loaded walk.

[Peter Rosenberg]

So now Fisher is in. So okay, Mullins, who had a, who stole a home run earlier in the game, just fascinating stuff. Nine, eight, bottom of the seventh inning, Blue Jays with a one run lead. That, that led to two runs, that kind of two unearned runs but as you could tell, you know, ended up extending innings, hurting. I think their starting pitcher, you know, Max Freed has to leave the game, you know, a little earlier because again you're working through Stuff because you're giving runs away. And then extending the ninth inning in which they were a hit away, the Rays from coming back and tying that game, they were able to get out of it, but now the errors are really starting to mount. 15 errors. That leads every defender in Major League Baseball in errors. He leads baseball in errors right now with 15 at the shortstop position. So this was Boone after that 2 error performance last night about Volpe's defense.

[Aaron Boone]

We got to get over it, you know, we got to get through it. You know, one thing for certain, he's really, really good out there. And he's clearly had some struggles and, you know, a little indecisive with that last throw. Like, you know, and, and not that, you know, it's, it's. It's a short hop there, but, you know, we can't be indecisive there. And he'll get through it, you know, but obviously there's. There's been some tough moments here and, you know, but for a very talented defender, he will get through it, and we got to get him there.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Now he's at least admitting the problem.

[Don LaGreca]

Defending him, saying him saying we've got to get over it is probably the strongest. It's like the dad that's finally reached a point of frustration, but knows that I can't explode, I can't yell at the kid, but he's got to know that I've run out of patience. We've got to get over it.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Right.

[Don LaGreca]

Because strong stuff from Boone.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah. Because Michael mentioned this on his show, that he talked to a bunch of people leaving the stadium, and there was one person that he felt was in the know that he trusted, who said it looks like he has the yips. The old Chuck Knobloch, Steve Sacks, Mackie Sasser, just not being able to throw the ball because that's where most of the errors are coming from, is when you get that split second to make a decision, he's okay. But when he gets a little extra time and it's in his head, especially at home, because now the fans are starting to sense it, now they're getting on him. Now he's hitting. So the Yankees, you know how they feel about offense, and that's why it's probably a lot harder to pull him out of the lineup because of the fact that he does hit and they don't want to lose that bat. But at the same time, development stage is now over. All right, you're in late July. You're battling for the division. You're battling to make the playoffs, which is still now very much up in the air, the way Texas is playing, the way Seattle is playing, the way the Red Sox are playing. So yeah, you can have all the fun you want developing this player and being patient. But now you're getting to the time where every error, every run, every inning that cost you a game can end up costing you a chance to go to the playoffs. And they can't have that happen. And the acquisition of Rosario, the fact that he can play short gives them an option. If they decide, all right, let's give Volpe a day. Or if they decide, you know what, maybe we need to send him down the way the Mets sent Alvarez down and that seemed to work. Allen, maybe it could work for Volpe. Yeah, the acquisition of McCann, who is a guy who can play third beyond this year, which then frees Lombard Jr. When he finally comes up to maybe not be your third baseman, maybe he could be your shortstop. You're starting to see guys avenues in which A, he could be rested, B, he could be sent down, or, or C, if this doesn't change that, maybe the option is he's no longer our future at shortstop. The Yankees over the last week or so have done things, Alan, to give themselves all three of those options if things don't correct themselves and fast.

[Don LaGreca]

One thing we have to keep in mind with Volpe and I have defended him over the last couple of weeks because, you know, the torches and pitchforks come out and you know, the fans get frustrated and you get like some of this outrageous commentary about a young player about how he sucks or, you know, I know some people push back on the fact that the Yankees didn't go after a veteran shortstop because they had Volpe and they could have done that, but they wouldn't trade Volpe when he had some value. All those things that it to me it's always the hindsight is 2020 stuff. But he was a Gold Glove shortstop as a rookie. He has been one of the best defensive shortstops in the sport. This is not who he is. We know it. And I get frustrated because we blame the player and I blame the system. I blame the team. Don, I'm trying to figure out, but I think he had one day, one game off this whole season. He's played more games than anybody on the, on the roster. He's played 106 games. Judges played 103. He has played 106 games like he has not had a day off. Now I get it, you don't really have any options with Rosario, now you do. And I'm wondering if right now would be the time to do it, to just let him decompress. Because what you're seeing when he double clutched that throw that Goldschmidt couldn't pick in the ninth inning, that's all you needed to see. For a guy that's now overthinking it, it's all in his head, clearly. And that's what is frustrating, because the throw in the first inning was him trying to make the spectacular rather than just make the simple. Let leave the runner at second. You're going in the wrong way. Just throw to first and get the out. He's trying to make a bigger play. It doesn't work. Now it's in his head. The second, the one in the ninth, was more of him double pumping.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah.

[Don LaGreca]

Which tells you he was either trying to slow down or it was in his head that he was so worried about missing the throw that he underthrew it. That's all mental issues. That is not a guy. That's a bad fielder. It's someone that right now has got to get his head right. How does he do it? Some managers, like Boone, think if I take him out of the lineup, he'll get even more down on himself. If we demote him, he'll get even more down on himself. But sometimes you just got to take the pressure off and let him just find his rhythm again.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Right.

[Don LaGreca]

And hopefully he can do that. How do you do it? Do you send them to Scranton? Do you. Do you really send him down like the Mets did with Alvarez? Or do you just sit him for a game or two and help him figure it out?

[Peter Rosenberg]

It happens in stages.

[Don LaGreca]

More practice is not. We're going to have. Callers are going to say he needs to practice more in August. Nobody's practicing. You get in your work before games, but there's no time for the extra rep stuff.

[Peter Rosenberg]

No, we're in it.

[Don LaGreca]

Unless you're not playing.

[Peter Rosenberg]

We're in it now.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

All right. Now, remember when he was the Gold glove rookie?

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Three years ago, he was top 10 in rookie of the Year, and he was. I think he finished eighth in Rookie of the Year. That was a year in which the Yankees were out of it. They were 82 and 80, like, so there wasn't that pressure of the game's meaning a lot. Now. Last year, you know, they kind of ran away with things. And then you saw in the playoffs and you know, the guy was able to hit in the postseason. But now you're trying. You're you're trying to develop players and you're also trying to win a championship. It's very difficult to do.

[Don LaGreca]

Yep.

[Peter Rosenberg]

This can all happen in stages. All right, Maybe now because you have Rosario, you can give him a break. See if a couple of days can't help him mentally. If that doesn't work, then by all means, send him down. But you're running out of time there. It's not like you have the option to send him down the rest of the year because eventually the minor leagues end and you're expanding the rosters, bringing guys up like so you only have a very small window to make that happen. But, you know, ultimately, right now, in the third year of his development, with this team trying to win a division and win a championship, Allen, that's got to come first. I got to win games.

[Don LaGreca]

All right?

[Peter Rosenberg]

I love the guy. I want him to be good, I want to develop him. But I can't cap at the expense of what's happening right now. All right? This is not some team that's in transition. This is not some, you know, the Cincinnati reds, who are above.500, just trying to make the playoffs. This is a Yankee team trying to win a championship. So ultimately, you've got to make a decision, what's best, what gives you the best chance to win. And we may be getting to a point now where having Volpe as your shortstop does not give you the best chance to win.

[Don LaGreca]

I see. I think the opposite. I think you have to get him right to a point because he is your best chance to win because of his bat and what he can bring. The only game he missed was back in May, Paraza. It was against the Rays. And Purrazzo started at short. That's as far as. That's as far as I could see as I was looking back. But that's why I think it's so important that you can't wait any longer. And I think Boone's finally realizing it. He really can't wait. August is two days away. This is the time. August is the time. Remember I told you about get right time? Don't worry about the score. Don't worry about the out of town scores. Don't worry about the standings. You got to get your team right because you have not been right since mid June. That series in Fenway back on June 13 is where it all turned. And it hasn't been the same since. They've been one of the worst teams in baseball since then, record wise. And so what you want to do is get right As a team, they're trying to do with the roster by getting right with more righties, better balance of lefty, righty, some depth, and also having to figure out to protect Judge if you can't play. But Volpe not being right is the next thing you got to work on. And if that means taking him out of the lineup and getting him right so that by the end of August he's back in the lineup and he's right again, that's got to get done now.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I agree with you. I agree. But I'm not giving up on. No, nobody's saying to give up on him, but right.

[Don LaGreca]

Some fans are.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Well, that fans are going to react that way. All right, they want to keep him and they should keep him. But this Volpe you got to change. I'm with you. Ultimately, the Volpe they know he can be does give them the best chance to win. But right now, these errors are going to cost them. It's going to cost them big down the stretch. Agree. It's going to cost them in the postseason. They've got to figure out a way to get it right. So you've got an option now, Rosario, maybe you spell them a game here, a game there. See if that changes things while you still have the opportunity. I give a weekend drastic and I.

[Don LaGreca]

Would give him a weekend off. I'm telling you, I wouldn't do one game.

[Peter Rosenberg]

So. So they go to Miami, all right, Taking on a Marlin team.

[Don LaGreca]

That's the weekend you give them off.

[Peter Rosenberg]

You know, if you wanted to give them a couple of days there, then you go to Texas. And those. Those are really important games because now Texas is right up your back for a wild card. They're going for it, you know, so I would rather get. See if he can get him right. Let him let. Maybe. Maybe he sits, you know, because you know what?

[Don LaGreca]

Next week, no, two weekends, the Astros come to town.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah. Then it's on.

[Don LaGreca]

You got to have him back. You got to have him right For a series like that, because that starts a home. It's such a mini homestand, them and the Twins. But I like. You've got to like give him a weekend off and let him just get some work done on the field. Who knows? Send them to Tampa, like, whatever. Like, if you don't want to put them in the minors, just do something to just. Just get them right. Settle them down, whatever it is. This is not Chuck Knobloch. At least not yet.

[Peter Rosenberg]

We're still haven't got the lineup for tonight. They got a day game tomorrow and then they go to Miami for three and then Texas. Weird road trip, right? Miami and Texas. Yeah, there's got to be some off days coming from there. So we'll see what the Yankees decide to do with Aaron Boone decides to.

[Advertiser]

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[Alan Hahn]

Hey guys, it's Ceedee Lamb, wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys. I'm partnering with Abercrombie this season to tell you all about their viral denim. All you need to know is denim should fit like this. My jeans need to check a lot of boxes fit first, trend second. They need to go with whatever I'm feeling. And Abercrombie Denim has it down whether I'm throwing on a tee or putting a whole fit to together shop Abercrombie Denim in the app online and in store.

[Dan Grasse]

Thanks for listening to the Don Han and Rosenberg podcast.

[Advertiser]

I didn't listen to anything you just said.

[Dan Grasse]

Catch the show on demand whenever you want. Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Thanks to the guys at Smashburger. Came by today with some lunch for us, some really nice salads, hot dogs, hamburgers, brisket, it definitely challenges the diet, but it was much needed for me. It's been a really wacky couple of days, so it was really nice to see those guys. So head out to your local Smash Burger this summer during their Summer of Smash event and try their $4.99 all the time meal or menu. That includes the deluxe Smash and all American Smash Burgers, plus the the new Americana Big Dog. They had cheese and chili dogs. Really amazing stuff. They've also got new summer menu additions, including the smoked brisket bacon burger, Smash Burger's new hot dogs called Big Dogs, loaded sides, and the chocolate chip cookie dough shake.

[Don LaGreca]

Notice that that was already gone by the time we got it.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah, shakes don't last. How many? Give them out free because they are absolutely awesome.

[Don LaGreca]

Speaking of free.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And kids eat free every Wednesday with minimum purchase of an adult meal. And guess what today is. Today's Wednesday. So check out Smashburger Free Food kids to learn more and to view participating locations. So thanks to the guys over at Smashburger.

[Don LaGreca]

Don had a salad.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I did.

[Don LaGreca]

I'm telling everybody. Smash Burgers here, they got delicious burgers and big dogs and Don's like, I'll have a salad. My work does a little bunny rabbit.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I couldn't go to the. I couldn't go to kickboxing yesterday because I had to take my mom to the doctor and everything's good. But it was. It was a long day. It was one of those all day kind of things. That's why I had to take off. So I was like, you know, I definitely got to hit the gym today. And which made it even harder was because Nancy was indisposed with Declan, so I had to take the kids to kickbox.

[Don LaGreca]

But they watch you.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Well, I got little gloves for them. They participate for a little while, but then they kind of get bored and then they start. What do they call those? They don't just start kicking. It begins with a B. It's kind of like that half bubble that you can use to work out whether you put it on the floor.

[Don LaGreca]

Oh, yeah, yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Was it a bocchi something? Bocce something, like. So they're using that to jump on.

[Don LaGreca]

That's fun.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And then Marco brought his computer and Roblox was able to handle, like, the last 25 minutes. I didn't want to disturb everybody that was in the class. I respect.

[Don LaGreca]

I respect the fact that you showed great restraint because Repug dawn would have had, like, the big Dog, like, just right down the gullet.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah, Just. Just two fist, you know?

[Don LaGreca]

Well, I Mean, that's, that's another conversation. But no, you definitely would have gone for the big dog. That's all I'm saying.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Jacob, did you know what he's talking about?

[Don LaGreca]

Just leave it on.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It's another. I know there's other conversations, but, but you know, when I hear two fisting, I think eating double.

[Don LaGreca]

Sure. Or absolutely.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Or, or drinking two beers or whatever. Oh, yeah, yeah. Now I know what you guys are gesturing, but you guys are filthy animals. I think you're allowed. When Don talked about having a hot.

[Don LaGreca]

Dog in each hand, I just felt like that's probably not something he wanted to discuss.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But we're talking.

[Don LaGreca]

No, just let it go.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Well, you brought it up.

[Don LaGreca]

I just was happy that you went with the salad. That showed great restraint.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Thank you. It did. That was tremendous.

[Don LaGreca]

Very mature.

[Peter Rosenberg]

So thanks for everybody joining us here on 1050. And of course, on the ESPN app, the Met game coverage has begun on 880. Let's get to the busy phones at 1-800-919-3776. We've got a list, or should I say lists at 4:30 today because both Alan and I are going to give our top five on this subject and we'll see if they jive. That should be interesting. But right now, just talking about the situation with the New York Yankees and Anthony Volpe. Let's go to Nick in Nutley. You're on ESPN New York. What's up, Nick?

[Caller]

Yeah, hi, guys. Thanks for taking a call. Love your show.

[Peter Rosenberg]

We.

[Caller]

I had the yips. I played catcher in high school and I was fortunate enough to have a tryout for the pros at 17 years old.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Okay.

[Caller]

And I was, I was nervous and I developed the yips during the tryout. When I went back to high school, when I went back to high school, they made me an outfielder because I could throw the ball from anywhere except pitching. I could throw regularly and when I caught, I could throw the ball first, second or third, but I couldn't throw the ball back to the pitcher. In the case of they move me to outfield. Now, I know they're not going to move Bowlby to the outfield. I know they're not going to make him to dh, but to your guy's point, he may have to get away a little bit in some regard. They shouldn't worry about his. In other words, whether they set them down or whatever, they shouldn't worry about Rosario going in for defense in the ninth. Never mind the kid psyche, Opie, psyche. That's why they got Rosario. What do they get Rosario for. They have to, you know, maybe put him in for defense. He is in a difficult situation. It's my opinion he has the. Oops. That double clutch last night kind of sealed it. And maybe he could talk to a psychologist. Maybe he could talk to a sports psychologist. He's got to understand Anthony Volpe and I got a Gold Glove and this is what I'm going to do. I'm going to beat this sucker and I'm going to play well. It's up to him. You can see all the doctors in the world. It's up to him.

[Don LaGreca]

We all know that it's a mental. No, no. Everything you're saying, everything you're saying makes sense. And it's. It's simple to say. It's just a mental thing and he's got to get over it. It's literally what Boone said. He's got to get over it. But that's easy for the rest of us to say for him. Like anybody that's been through any type of a mental block or something that has just starting to affect you, like, he and only him can fix this somehow, some way. And I don't know what it's going to take.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah, it's funny that that's got to happen. The phrase that Boone used, get over it.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

They're telling you there's something going on with him.

[Don LaGreca]

I know it's not.

[Peter Rosenberg]

We know he can do it. You know he can do it. He won a Gold Glove his rookie year.

[Caller]

He.

[Peter Rosenberg]

He still sometimes makes spectacular plays because when it's the quick twitch where his mind doesn't matter, he can make the play. But the second he gets in his head, that's when he short arms it, sidearms it, usually throwing errors.

[Don LaGreca]

You know what it is? It's because he's so aware of the criticism.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah.

[Don LaGreca]

I think you know, and you can say whatever you want about how he's a professional athlete and he needs to be tougher to. He's still human and he's young. And he's also, by the way, a guy who grew up a Yankees fan. He's a guy that grew up in the area, so he gets it. He knows fans are annoyed and frustrated with him. He knows that fans probably want him traded. They want him. Whatever it is. Everybody's mad at him right now and he knows it. And you could see it in his face that every time something goes wrong, he has got that sad puppy dog face now. And that's where to me, anybody close to him has got to just slap him around a little bit. Like, wake the hell up, man. Look what you do. Look where you are and get like, get yourself into more. It's almost like he's got to start laughing at himself a little bit, whatever it is, but he's got to get over it. But booing him is not going to help it.

[Peter Rosenberg]

No, but it's not going to go away. Of course fans are going to do that.

[Don LaGreca]

But it's not going to help.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Not going to help.

[Don LaGreca]

But that's easy. It's not easy.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It isn't like, you know, have headache, take Advil. When we're talking about a mental situation like this, if indeed it is, and I think it is, it's definitely mental. There's different things for different people. Maybe, maybe some need to be thrown right into the fire. Keep doing it, work through it. Some, maybe they need a couple of days off. Like, you don't know. You gotta find what. What works for him. That's what they've got to develop here, because we know he can do it. But how you get your confidence back. And the unfortunate thing is this. It's not like he's playing in Milwaukee or he's playing somewhere where the. Where there's so much scrutiny. Like you said, he's got the triple effect. He's from the area, grew up a Yankee fan. He's playing on a team that's. That's that the games matter because they're right in the pennant race. And, you know, he's also playing a position that Derek Jeter did in his sleep. Right. I mean, he set the standard for how it's supposed to be done. And even though we're a couple of shortstops removed from Derek, Derek set the standard. And Volpe was compared to Derek Jeter when he was talked about and called up. And they didn't want to landlock him because he was supposed to be the next Derek Jeter. And maybe he will be, you know, but right now he's struggling and it's really affecting them. They've got to fight. They got to figure out the formula in which to get it fixed. Let's go to Dylan in the car. You're on espn, New York.

[Caller]

Hey, guys. I just wanted to defend Anthony Volpe a little bit. I think this thing is getting a little overblown. Last night, you know, the first play looked like, might have been over, tossed a little bit, but I think Chisholm could have made a play on it if he got to the bag a little bit.

[Don LaGreca]

No chance. No, that that throw was so wide. That was the third base side of second base and he was going the opposite way. It was. He was trying to make a spectacular play to get the lead runner. There was no way they were turning two on that. And he. He just tried to make a spectacular play. He was playing on instinct. It worked against him. That is one that in a vacuum, if he wasn't going through this, you would just say, ah, you know, he was trying to make a big play and it didn't happen. But because it just piles on. You know what I mean? I would not blame Chisholm on that. I think he just has to go to first and he was trying to make a spectacular play, that's all.

[Caller]

But even besides that, the second one in excuse, why.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Great.

[Caller]

I think he's overthinking that.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah, he.

[Caller]

Yeah, I could see as soon as he pumped he was gonna screw that up. But he was responsible for driving in rbi. He did force an error at third base and then scored.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah, his offense is around like, so I don't think anybody should be critical of what he's done offensively. He had a home run in the World Series last year. But the defense is a problem, especially how poor the defense was last year for this team. And it cost him a legitimate chance at a championship. That's why people are sensitive about it.

[Caller]

We do know, though, that he is capable of being a Gold Glove shortstop. So if it's something that he just needs to get out of his head. And I think Volpe has the demeanor, I think he's built for New York. I don't think he's someone that's going to let the media kill him. You know, people have been booing him for months now and he seems to get the bat rolling now. But I don't think this is something we need to. I don't think, you know, he's only 24 years old. I don't think it's ready to throw him in the trash.

[Don LaGreca]

I completely agree.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah, nobody wants to throw him.

[Don LaGreca]

That's where I'm put. And I'm glad he said that. And thank you for the call. That's why I have been pushing. It's so funny because it was a couple of weeks ago when I was saying, I'm not going to stand for bashing a young player like this. The organization has to do right by him. And you cannot just suddenly just toss him out because he's having. He's going through a struggle. And that's what he's a young, talented player. And he's one of these guys that works hard. He's not a bad, you know what I mean? He's like a hustle guy. He's not a Gleyber Torres who plays lazy. He's not a Gary Sanchez who's gonna, you know, take his time down the baseline. Like all the things that frustrated you about those other young players, he's none of that. So this is somebody that you just stay behind. By the way, last 10 games, offensively, he has come around. I mean, like the numbers. His OPS is 9, 5, 6. He does have what he said, five home runs in the last 10 games, eight RBI, couple of stolen bases. So, you know, like the offense has been there, which is probably why you can't take him out of the lineup. But the defense, you can't argue, like the errors are there and now it's in his head. And you've got to fix it. As an organization, you fix it. Don't put it on the kid alone.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I appreciate the caller defending him, but this is not about his offense. There was a time it was about his offense, but he has shown that with his defensive struggles, he doesn't bring it to the plate.

[Don LaGreca]

Right.

[Peter Rosenberg]

He's had some big hits, he had some big moments. And that's why I think they're fighting really hard to keep him, because you know how the Yankees think about bats. They want to keep a big bat in line of it, but they can. So he's overcome that and we know he can do it. But right now it's a bit of a struggle. They're gonna have to figure it out. The McDonald's snack wrap is back.

[Don LaGreca]

You brought it back. Ranch snack wrap.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Spicy snack wrap. You broke the Internet for a snack? Snack wrap is back.

[Advertiser]

This episode is brought to you by San Pellegrino.

[Don LaGreca]

Ciao.

[Advertiser]

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[Dan Grasse]

The Don Han and Rosenberg podcast.

[Advertiser]

I didn't listen to anything you just said.

[Dan Grasse]

Catch the show on demand whenever you want. Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts.

[Peter Rosenberg]

On what's happening with the Mets and also keeping an eye on what's happening with the Blue Jays.

[Don LaGreca]

We are in the ninth.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Maybe it's a little too early to scoreboard watch, but they're in the bottom of the ninth inning now. Baltimore with a 98 lead. This is a game which Toronto came back a couple of different times and then had a 9, 5 lead. They almost blew in the seventh inning, but they're now in the bottom of the ninth inning seeing if they can end their four game losing streak.

[Don LaGreca]

One out so far.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Red Sox up big on the Twins 13 1. And we'll keep an eye on the Mets as they are just getting underway. No. Juan Soto after fouling a ball off of his foot, left the game. X rays were negative. Not in the lineup today. The hope is he'll be back in the lineup against the Giants on Friday when the team returns from Citi Field. Right now we're talking about the Yankees and the struggles that Volpe has had at shortstop defensively. Let's go back to the phones of 1-800-919-3776, talk to our friend David and Elizabeth. You're on ESPN New York. What's up, Dave?

[Caller]

What up, Donnie Pucks? What up? Hollywood hunt.

[Don LaGreca]

What's happening, David?

[Caller]

What's going on, fellas? So look, I just got two things for you guys real quick. Hollywood hunt on a hot day like today. A quarter water fruit punch flavor. Oh, man, like that. That brings back memories.

[Don LaGreca]

Let me show manhunt. I'm going to show Don all that.

[Peter Rosenberg]

This was a topic yesterday.

[Don LaGreca]

No, this is on my, my story. You know you've had, you know you've had one of those.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I don't remember what it was called.

[Don LaGreca]

It was called, he's saying a half water.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Well, it's a nickname.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah, yeah, but I called them. But it was literally looked like a barrel. It was, came in different colors, but red was obviously the fruit punch one. And it had a foil that you peeled off and drank right of this plastic barrel. And if it was cold. Oh, man, that hit different.

[Caller]

Oh, yeah, hit that spot, baby.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah, that hit different.

[Caller]

Oh yeah. So look real quick.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Oh, yeah.

[Caller]

I'm sorry. Are you gonna say something?

[Peter Rosenberg]

No, I'm good, baby. We got it.

[Caller]

All right, so, yeah, you know, I'm a big Mets guy, like Don Hollywood Hunt. Don't kill me on this one. I'm sorry, Yankee fans. Don't kill me either. Please, can you guys please stop with this championship stuff, bro? Like, yo, you guys haven't won a championship since. Since 2009, since Bush was in office.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Like, come on.

[Caller]

And I'm not saying I'm not bad talking to organization to back up the Yankee fans.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It was Obama.

[Don LaGreca]

But go ahead.

[Caller]

I know, I know. Bush was in 08. Bush was in 08. I'm close. But.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But you know what I'm saying?

[Caller]

Like. Like, I'm not trying to disrespect or anything. Fellas. Leo, it's been a long time. You guys got a lot of rings, a lot of hardware. It's a beautiful franchise, a beautiful clubhouse. I get it. But please stop the whole. Oh, yeah, my championship. You're not getting it. Right.

[Don LaGreca]

But are you a Mets? Are you a Mets fan? Are you a Mets fan?

[Caller]

Yeah. Yeah.

[Don LaGreca]

Your team hasn't won a championship since Reagan was in office. Okay, so, like, we have.

[Caller]

We haven't won the championship since I was born.

[Don LaGreca]

There you go. But. But no, it's. It is, David. It is a standard. Is. It's something that I think, as a fan, I'm never letting go of, no matter what you tell me. And every time somebody. I was saying this yesterday, Don. Every time somebody tells me, well, nothing's going to change. That's just the way it is. This is how they're always going to play, whether you like it or not. So you can't keep talking about it. I say you're wrong. You need to talk about it more. Because the more you start to submit and the more you start to give up, the more they win, the more they're allowed then to play their way, because no one's going to complain about it. You have to. If you let go of the standard as a Yankees fan, that it should be about championships and Derek Jeter and what he said about October. That wasn't a shot at Aaron Judge. That was a shot at Brian Cashman. And how this franchise has become less about winning in October and more about making sure we're in the Black for 162 games and every year we have a winning record. And you stand on that business rather on what you do at the end of the season.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But. But also. And I don't want to have the same Conversation, but he brought it up. But you do have to realize in defense of the Yankees, you can't win at that clip anymore. Right? I think sometimes the fans want to go back to, you know, four championships in five years. That, that, that not happened. Baseball's not built that way.

[Don LaGreca]

Don, You're. That just drives me crazy because that's not what I'm saying. I'm not saying I long for the days of winning four championships in five years, because I know that's not possible. What you're missing is that that was the standard and that it's like whatever it took to get there and to be in that. Cause, you know, after 2000, they still were there in 01 and 03, right? They still got there, but they lost. But like you were mad that they lost, but at least you knew four.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Years after, I understand that the run, they were still one of the best, but to a lot of the people you're looking at, you, you did go to the World Series last year. Now you embarrassed yourself in the World Series, but you did go to the World Series above.500 every single year.

[Don LaGreca]

We all know nobody wins at the.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Clip that the Yankees used to win at. So you're talking about the standards.

[Don LaGreca]

It's not about winning the championship. It's about playing at a championship level, operating at a championship level.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Okay? And.

[Don LaGreca]

And they were not a championship level team last year. They just got there. The American League was bad. They got there because the Guardians, they.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Got there and they still way the Series still may get there again this year. I don't think so.

[Don LaGreca]

No, they're not a championship team.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I don't think they're a championship team either. But there's still the opportunity. And when it's all said and done and they'll win 90 games, they'll find a way to get into the playoffs. But who is. Honestly, I'm gonna fight it. I'm gonna fight it though, because who, who wins at that clip? Like, really, if you look at the Yankees over the last 30 years, who wins at that clip? Don, it was San Antonio. And at San Antonio's collapsed and they've had the rebuild. The Cowboys, they were, they were the, the definition of stability and winning every year. And they have gone now 25 plus years without a championship, a Super bowl appearance and what, two or three even playoff wins? Okay. Since their last super bowl championship. All right, Montreal Canadiens, forget about it. They haven't won in over 30 years and they hardly make the playoffs anymore. The Kansas City Chiefs. Yeah, they're Right now. But at some point, what's going to happen when Mahomes retires? They're probably going to go through there, rebuild their doldrums. They're going to have to go through four or five years of being irrelevant. So what? So you're saying that they. There's a standard that they and only they have to live up to because what you're talking about, no one does what the Yankees are even doing now. No one does. No one can say that they finished over.500 for 30 consecutive years. Nobody's able to say that every single year they've been relevant. We have people on the other side of the glass that don't know what it's like to have a Yankee team that doesn't have a chance to win a championship. There is no other franchise in sports that are held up to the standard that you are articulating.

[Don LaGreca]

You can't compare them to anyone.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Why?

[Don LaGreca]

Because you just mentioned the two other franchises that have the most championships in their leagues. Right. You mentioned the Montreal Canadiens. Their last one was in 93. It's. It's long gone. Long gone.

[Peter Rosenberg]

All right. The Boston Celtics, who have won recently. Yeah, but they're not the standard that used to be.

[Don LaGreca]

That's their standard though, up in Boston. The Celtics are held to that standard. Absolutely are. Absolutely are. And they never let go of it because that's their. That's what they're proud of the most. And that's why that run through the 90s for them was God awful times. God awful times. But that was the Yankee times. Through the late the 80s and into the early 90s it was the same type of thing. Then the Celtics eventually got it right in the 2000s and they have at least have a couple of championships in their pocket and appearances in the NBA Finals and they have been one of the best teams in the sport. But every year the whole idea is about like Red Auerbach is similar to when you want to say I miss George Steinmetter because Red Auerbach was like, if I'm not lighting up a cigar, this was a bad season. This was unsuccessful. Not if we won 60 games. He didn't care about 60 wins. He cared about what did we do? Did we play at a championship level? And that's something that is harder to do these days. I get it because of Cap and way harder. But that doesn't mean you let go of it. That doesn't mean you just give in. When you watch a team, I keep saying this, it is not about a Win total. It's what it looks like. And in the last six weeks, this has been garbage. This has not been the standard that you expect from the Yankees. It is not acceptable. And that is something that a fan is allowed to express and not feel like they're being spoiled because, well, you still have a winning record. That's great, but what does it look like?

[Peter Rosenberg]

But again, and don't tell me, like.

[Don LaGreca]

Well, not any team. It's not any team. It's the Yankees. It's a different brand. It's just different.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I know, but you're holding it to a brand that times change. You talk about Red Auerbach. Yeah, it was easy. There weren't as many teams. They were winning championships every year.

[Don LaGreca]

Talks about it, too. Brad Stevens is talking about it all he wants.

[Advertiser]

It doesn't get the same as it.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Does with a guy chomping, telling you. But it's. It's different, man. It's just different. I think some Yankee fans don't understand that. It just. It's different with revenue sharing and parody. It's just different. All right.

[Don LaGreca]

I don't know. It's. You still. You are still given $300 million to spend.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That's. And that's. And that's a fair argument. Payroll, and that's a fair argument.

[Don LaGreca]

So you're still spending among the best, and you are not playing among the best.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But it's still amazing to me that you're still complaining. And yet, if you are a fan of multiple teams in New York, the Yankees have given you more pleasure than any other team that you root for. Yeah. So the team that you're complaining about, well, now you're getting into it.

[Don LaGreca]

That's why you root for them.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Because I'll tell you what, it's a lot easy for the Bleacher Creatures and everybody chanting the names when the team's winning every year. You know, if you had to go through it, every other franchise had to go through, and that's maybe a decade of losing or having to rebuild. Then that's when George Steinburner is talking about moving the team to New Jersey and they can't sell in the Bronx. And Dom Mattingly hitting grand slam home runs into an empty upper deck. That's what you're getting. So that's what I talk about, the spoiled, is that you've now held up to a standard, though. Now this is considered suffering. You have to understand other people that root for other teams kind of laughing. You're suffering.

[Don LaGreca]

Why would I worry about that? You chose to Choose.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But it is like a first world problem. But, but you're admitting you chose to root for that team because they win.

[Don LaGreca]

Once again, if it is a corporation, well then you're.

[Peter Rosenberg]

You're saying you're a front runner.

[Caller]

No.

[Peter Rosenberg]

The only reason you root for the Yankees because they win. I think you're spinning. I'm not spinning it. You said that's the reason you rooted.

[Don LaGreca]

No, no, I'm not.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I'm not spinning. I'm reciting what you said.

[Don LaGreca]

You are spinning it because now you're trying to flip it like as if this is a me problem and it's not. If it is.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Well, no, it's kind of a me problem.

[Don LaGreca]

Standard is a corporation that's expect them to live up to the standard.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And you know what? And, and I'm. And again tell me that I'm supposed to back off.

[Don LaGreca]

And hey, you know it's not.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But you do have to wonder what it look it's just like a millionaire counting his money saying you just. I'm not making the millions that I used to is. You're talking to a bunch of other people that would love to make a million.

[Don LaGreca]

Well, you know, that's how you make your million. All right, but that's how you make your million.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But you're just trying to tell you that you are sounding spoiled right now.

[Don LaGreca]

Why? Because I don't want the standard to drop. Because I don't want them to operate where they make the dumbest mistakes with the roster where they're constantly.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I understand there's frustration for a player who's not any. I'm not denying that there isn't frustration but you.

[Don LaGreca]

But that they don't.

[Peter Rosenberg]

They're young players properly are comparing your frustrations to other fans and those fans.

[Don LaGreca]

Laugh and compare them. I'm just saying that I'm not going to accept and fans shouldn't accept the fact that like you know, all the old days are never coming back. That's ridiculous because the expectation should always be not just to have a winning record, it's to be able to play every year for a title.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And they do.

[Don LaGreca]

And they did last year.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I know, but they have not in.

[Don LaGreca]

The last eight years.

[Peter Rosenberg]

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[Dan Grasse]

Thanks for listening to the Don Hahn and Rosenberg Podcast.

[Don LaGreca]

I don't want to know how the sausage is made, but I just want to know it's good.

[Dan Grasse]

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.