Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 1: Yankees Comeback & Mets Prospects
Release Date: July 11, 2025

In this engaging episode of the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast, hosts Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg dive deep into the recent performances of the New York Yankees and the New York Mets. The discussion is rich with insights, debates, and expert analysis, making it a must-listen for baseball enthusiasts and fans of New York sports alike.

1. Introduction: Setting the Stage

The episode kicks off around [00:27], where Don Hahn welcomes listeners to a lively Friday show, hinting at a "full frontal" discussion that promises to delve straight into the heart of current baseball happenings.

2. Yankees' Recent Comeback and Game Analysis

A. Game Recap and Group Chat Reactions

At [02:06], Don discusses a memorable game where the Yankees secured a comeback victory, leading to enthusiastic responses in their group chat. Alan Rosenberg reflects on the game's pivotal moments, especially highlighting the performance of pitcher Gerrit Cole and the impact of key plays in the late innings.

B. Player Performances and MVP Considerations

Don shares his admiration for players like Anthony Rizzo and their contributions to the game, stating at [03:13], "Anthony and Anthony ready to jump off the George Washington Bridge for seven innings of that game was so true." The conversation then shifts to MVP discussions, where both hosts express their opinions on candidates like Austin Meadows and Judge, debating their merits and contributions to the team.

C. Bullpen Strategies and Pitching Concerns

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the Yankees' bullpen management. At [06:33], Don critiques the bullpen's performance, especially in high-pressure situations, and questions the decision-making processes behind pitcher rotations and relief strategies.

3. Mets' Current Season and Future Prospects

A. Performance Overview and Management Decisions

Don reveals his frustrations with the Mets' lack of urgency in managing their bullpen and starter rotations. At [12:37], he criticizes the organizational philosophy, emphasizing the need for proactive decisions to bolster the team's chances in the postseason.

B. Prospects and Development Strategies

Alan Rosenberg counters Don's points by suggesting that the Mets are focused on the careful development of their prospects, ensuring long-term success without compromising the current season's performance. This leads to a broader discussion on the balance between immediate success and future potential.

C. Comparing Organizational Approaches: Yankees vs. Mets

The hosts engage in a thorough comparison between the Yankees' investment-heavy approach to starting pitching and the Mets' more conservative strategy. Don at [34:19] argues against the high salaries awarded to starting pitchers, suggesting that the current trend devalues pitching roles similar to the running back position in football.

4. The Evolving Role of Starting Pitchers in Modern Baseball

Don Hahn and Alan Rosenberg explore the shifting dynamics of starting pitchers, likening them to running backs whose value has diminished over time. At [31:14], they discuss how only a select few pitchers command high salaries, while the majority are managed with a focus on bullpen strength and strategic deployments.

A. Salary Analysis and Performance Metrics

Alan provides a detailed breakdown of starting pitchers earning $20 million or more, highlighting that out of 150 potential starters, only 11 earn above this threshold. Don adds his perspective by analyzing players like Jacob deGrom, questioning the return on investment for such high salaries when pitchers face frequent injuries and inconsistent performances.

B. Future Implications for Team Strategies

The conversation extends to the broader implications for team management, with both hosts emphasizing the need for balanced investments in both pitching and bullpen to maximize team performance throughout the grueling 162-game season.

5. Listener Interaction and Call-In Segment

At [30:43], the podcast features a call-in from a listener named Brian, who inquires about the future of starting pitchers and their market value. This interaction prompts further analysis from the hosts, reinforcing their earlier points about the evolving nature of pitching roles in baseball.

Notable Quotes:

• Don Hahn ([02:06]): "We have a 1-0 lead in the 8th inning against a lousy baseball team, and I got a second game of a doubleheader coming up here. I want to win this series and march on to Kansas City."

• Alan Rosenberg ([03:13]): "They did get a run on the boards. They weren't going to get shown. They didn't get no hit. They weren't going to get shut out. But the Stanton home run, that made it 5:3. That, that's when I feel like the adrenaline was put back into the team."

• Don Hahn ([06:33]): "You had a run on third, and all you had to do is put it out in the outfield. And that's what he did. And they won the game."

• Alan Rosenberg ([16:42]): "If you give me chess pieces, I got to use them. And Stanick's supposed to get me somebody that I can trust."

• Don Hahn ([31:14]): "Really what you're seeing is very few select pitchers are getting the big money. Cole got the money. Freed got the money. Yamamoto coming out of Japan, got the money."

6. Off-Topic Banter and Closing Remarks

After an in-depth discussion on baseball, the hosts transition into light-hearted banter about golf, reminiscing about past experiences and entertaining humorous anecdotes. This segment, while diverting from the main topic, adds a personal touch to the podcast, showcasing the camaraderie between the hosts.

Conclusion:

This episode of "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" offers a comprehensive analysis of the current state of the Yankees and Mets, blending statistical insights with passionate opinions. The hosts effectively balance deep dives into team strategies with engaging conversations, making complex baseball dynamics accessible and entertaining for listeners. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, the episode provides valuable perspectives on what lies ahead for New York's beloved baseball teams.