Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 2: Alonso & The List

Release Date: January 15, 2025

In this engaging episode of the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast, hosts Don Hahn, Peter Rosenberg, and guest Andy Martino dive deep into the latest developments surrounding Pete Alonso and the New York Mets, analyze strategic elements of the NFL’s running game with a focus on the Jets, and culminate with a lively discussion on celebrity fans of New York’s major sports teams. The episode is structured into three main segments, each offering insightful commentary, expert opinions, and entertaining banter.

1. Pete Alonso and the Mets’ Future

The episode opens with a heated discussion about Pete Alonso's future with the New York Mets. Rosenberg initiates the conversation by highlighting rumors of Alonso potentially moving to San Francisco, emphasizing that Alonso remains unsigned as the January contract deadline approaches.

Key Points:

• Mets’ Confidence: The hosts explore whether the Mets are confident that Alonso’s market value is primarily anchored to New York, suggesting that other teams may not offer competitive contracts. Don Hahn asserts, “I think they want to bring him back, but they want to bring him back on their terms” (00:34).

• Contract Negotiations: Don Hahn references Alonso’s previous contract negotiations, noting Alonso turned down a substantial offer in 2023 because he believed he could secure a better deal. This historical context underscores the Mets' current strategy of waiting for the right offer.

• Market Dynamics: Rosenberg raises pertinent questions about whether the Mets are merely holding onto Alonso due to fan loyalty or if they genuinely believe he adds undeniable value to the team. He muses, “The only team that might see value in Pete are the Mets” (04:06).

• Comparison to J.D. Martinez: The conversation draws parallels between Alonso’s situation and the Mets’ signing of J.D. Martinez the previous year. Rosenberg speculates that waiting for the right moment could allow the Mets to obtain Alonso at a reduced cost, similar to how Martinez was acquired affordably and became a valuable asset (05:22).

• Future Prospects: Don Hahn discusses the Mets' potential to pivot to other players if Alonso does not return, mentioning pitchers like Vlad Guerrero Jr. and infielders such as Mauricio Acuna. He emphasizes that the Mets have financial flexibility under owner Steve Cohen, allowing them to navigate Alonso’s situation without jeopardizing the franchise (07:17).

Notable Quote: Peter Rosenberg encapsulates the Mets' position stating, “This just seems to be the place for him” (07:11).

2. NFL Running Game and Jets’ Offensive Strategy

Transitioning to football, the hosts address listener questions about the importance of a strong running game in the NFL, particularly concerning the New York Jets.

Key Points:

• Listener Insights: A caller named Jonathan raises concerns about the Jets’ lack of a robust running game and its impact on their playoff chances. He posits that teams with established running games are more consistently successful, implicitly critiquing the Jets’ offensive strategy (11:53).

• Running Backs’ Value: The discussion highlights the significance of players like Breece Hall and Saquon Barkley, arguing that a strong running game can stabilize an offense and provide better overall performance. Rosenberg notes, “You can always find on the cheap” emphasizing that effective running backs don’t necessarily require high draft picks (18:23).

• Jets’ Offensive Challenges: Don Hahn critiques the Jets’ coaching decisions and offensive line performance, suggesting that poor utilization of running backs like Breece Hall has hindered their effectiveness. He remarks, “Breeze Hall was either like number two or three in most people's drafts” (21:03), underscoring Hall's high value in fantasy leagues and his underutilization in actual gameplay.

• Potential Solutions: The hosts explore potential strategies for the Jets, including better integration of running backs and improved coaching tactics. Rosenberg suggests that with a competent head coach, the Jets could transform their running game into a playoff-contending force (21:25).

Notable Quote: Don Hahn comments on the Jets' offensive issues, saying, “Breeze Hall, I mean, he can’t go over the sidelines and strangle the play caller” (20:00).

3. Celebrity Fans of New York’s Sports Teams

In the final segment, the hosts embark on a fun and spirited discussion about the most prominent celebrity fans of New York’s major sports teams. Rosenberg initiates the segment by listing his top picks, which Don Hahn helps validate and expand upon.

Key Points:

• Yankees – Billy Crystal: Rosenberg crowns Billy Crystal as the biggest celebrity Yankee fan, citing his genuine fandom and high profile.

• Mets – Jerry Seinfeld: Jerry Seinfeld is identified as a prominent Mets supporter, with both hosts agreeing on his passionate fandom.

• Jets – Adam Sandler: The duo select Adam Sandler for the Jets, acknowledging his frequent appearances at Jets games.

• Knicks – Spike Lee: Spike Lee is highlighted as the top Knicks fan, recognized for his consistent attendance and vocal support.

• Brooklyn Nets – Ethan Hawke: Despite some skepticism, Rosenberg includes Ethan Hawke as the top Nets celebrity fan, based on accounts from their network (#24:36–28:53).

• Giants – Tracy Morgan: Tracy Morgan is chosen for the Giants, praised for his genuine support and involvement with the team.

• Rangers – Larry David: Larry David is spotlighted as a Rangers fan, noted for his dual support of New York’s hockey teams.

• Devils – Kevin Smith: Kevin Smith is named the top Devils celebrity fan, acknowledged for his enthusiastic support and inclusion in team-related media.

• Islanders – Ralph Macchio: Ralph Macchio rounds out the list as the top Islanders fan, recognized for his consistent attendance and public support.

List Recap:

1. Yankees: Billy Crystal
2. Mets: Jerry Seinfeld
3. Jets: Adam Sandler
4. Knicks: Spike Lee
5. Nets: Ethan Hawke
6. Giants: Tracy Morgan
7. Rangers: Larry David
8. Devils: Kevin Smith
9. Islanders: Ralph Macchio

Notable Interaction: Rosenberg humorously contemplates the legitimacy of some fans, prompting Don Hahn to confirm Larry David’s long-time support: “He goes to Garden sporting events all the time and has for years” (26:20).

Conclusion

Throughout the episode, Don, Hahn & Rosenberg offer a blend of sharp analysis and light-hearted discussion, making complex sports negotiations and strategies accessible and entertaining. The segment on celebrity fans adds a playful twist, showcasing the hosts' ability to engage listeners beyond pure sports analysis. By weaving together detailed insights with memorable quotes and personable interactions, this episode serves both devoted fans and casual listeners alike.

Highlighted Quote: Peter Rosenberg reflects on Pete Alonso’s legacy with the Mets: “We had David Wright... it's just a guy that spends 15 years here, breaks all the records, hopefully wins a couple of championships” (08:50).

For more in-depth discussions and expert sports commentary, tune into the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast available on the ESPN New York app and your favorite smart speakers.