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.

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.

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..."

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.