Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Episode: "Hour 1: Yankees, Mets Lose Tough Ones"

Release Date: April 2, 2025
Duration: Approximately 46 minutes
Participants: Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg, Stephen A. Smith, Anthony Volpe

1. Introduction and Soap Opera Discussion (00:00 – 08:14)

The episode kicks off with a humorous and somewhat chaotic exchange among the hosts, Don LaGreca, Peter Rosenberg, Alan Hahn, and guest Stephen A. Smith. The conversation quickly shifts to a critique of a scene from the soap opera "General Hospital."

• Peter Rosenberg expresses discomfort with a scene showing two older adults making out:
  "So here's... two adults in bed together, man and woman... Something very... They weren't terribly unattractive, but they certainly were. I don't know. It was like watching your parents make out. There's something weird." [02:14]

• Stephen A. Smith attempts to clarify the scene, revealing it involved Malika Andrews and clarifies there were no two gentlemen involved:
  "No, I looked up and saw the lovely Malika Andrews..." [01:07]

• Don LaGreca identifies the soap opera as "General Hospital" and criticizes the portrayal:
  "But no, I don't... We're talking about General Hospital, I believe." [02:28]

The hosts debate the appropriateness of depicting older characters in intimate scenes, touching on themes of ageism and body image.

2. Yankees and Mets Game Analysis (08:14 – 22:35)

Transitioning to sports, the discussion centers on recent performances by the New York Yankees and New York Mets, with a particular focus on pitching strategies and key player performances.

• Peter Rosenberg analyzes the Yankees' bullpen and Aaron Boone's strategy:
  "The bullpen is going to win way more games than they're going to lose... The Mets being 2 and 3, you're not taking advantage of it." [08:27]

• Don LaGreca praises Will Warren's start but criticizes bullpen management:
  "He was a bullpen loss. I thought Will Warren had a good start... But the bullpen is going to win way more games..." [08:53]

• Stephen A. Smith discusses Aaron Judge's performance and fan reactions:
  "When you go to a Yankees game... For a lot of fans... You don't want to have the consolation prize of the MVP without a ring." [21:25]

• Anthony Volpe comments on Judge's recent struggles and fan patience:
  "I didn't find it nearly as alarming." [03:58]

The hosts delve into the expectations placed on star players like Aaron Judge, the strategic decisions impacting game outcomes, and the volatility of fan support based on player performance.

3. Call-Ins and Personal Anecdotes (22:35 – 38:13)

The podcast features interactions with callers, bringing in personal stories and light-hearted debates.

• Caller David criticizes Peter Rosenberg for dismissing questions about his children:
  "I would love you want to talk about my kids... I think that's a good thing that people are saying, hey, how's it going asking things about your kids." [30:07]

• Stephen A. Smith defends his approach to discussing personal life, emphasizing genuine interest over generic questions:
  "How's she doing? What? Has she done anything?" [31:38]

• The conversation highlights differing perspectives on engaging with public figures about personal matters, balancing professionalism with authenticity.

4. Tribute to Val Kilmer and Film Discussions (38:13 – 43:58)

The hosts pay tribute to the late Val Kilmer, reflecting on his portrayal of Jim Morrison in "The Doors" and his impact on film.

• Don LaGreca reminisces about Kilmer's performance:
  "Don Val Kilmer played Jim Morrison... That was a triumph... He really took on the role like it was phenomenal." [38:17]

• Peter Rosenberg discusses Kilmer's ability to embody characters seamlessly:
  "That's why Robert De Niro is great... You don't see the actor. You see who that actor's portraying." [42:54]

• Stephen A. Smith shares his admiration for Kilmer's work:
  "It's worth seeing... I think it's gonna be hovering in the middle of most if it." [38:44]

The segment honors Kilmer's legacy in cinema, highlighting his versatility and the respect he garnered from peers and fans alike.

5. Closing Remarks and Upcoming Shows (43:58 – End)

In the final segment, the hosts wrap up the episode with promotions for upcoming shows and additional content.

• Alan Hahn advertises upcoming segments and encourages listeners to subscribe via the ESPN New York app:
  "Hear more of Don Allen and Peter weekday afternoon starting at 3 on 8 80, ESPN..." [45:41]

• Don LaGreca and Peter Rosenberg share light-hearted banter about tech mishaps and team strategies, maintaining the show's engaging and personable atmosphere.

Notable Quotes:

• Peter Rosenberg on bullpen strategy:
  "The bullpen is going to win way more games than they're going to lose." [08:27]

• Stephen A. Smith on fan expectations:
  "For a lot of fans... You don't want to have the consolation prize of the MVP without a ring." [21:25]

• Don LaGreca on Val Kilmer's legacy:
  "Don Val Kilmer played Jim Morrison... That was a triumph." [38:17]

• Peter Rosenberg on personal questions:
  "How's she doing? What? Has she done anything?" [31:38]

Conclusions and Insights:

• Age Representation in Media: The initial discussion underscores the discomfort and differing opinions on portraying older characters in intimate scenarios, reflecting broader societal conversations about ageism and attractiveness.

• Sports Strategy and Expectations: The analysis of the Yankees and Mets games illuminates the complexities of baseball strategies, the immense pressure on star players, and the fragile nature of fan support based on performance outcomes.

• Personal Authenticity vs. Public Persona: The call-in segment reveals tensions between maintaining a professional public image and sharing personal experiences, highlighting the challenges public figures face in balancing authenticity with audience expectations.

• Tribute to Talent: The homage to Val Kilmer emphasizes the lasting impact of talented individuals in the entertainment industry and the importance of recognizing their contributions and legacies.

Structured Sections:

1. Introduction and Soap Opera Discussion
2. Yankees and Mets Game Analysis
3. Call-Ins and Personal Anecdotes
4. Tribute to Val Kilmer and Film Discussions
5. Closing Remarks and Upcoming Shows

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key discussions, memorable quotes, and the dynamic interplay between hosts and guests. Whether you're a regular listener or new to the show, this overview provides a clear and engaging glimpse into the topics covered in "Hour 1: Yankees, Mets Lose Tough Ones."