Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 2: Michael Kay & Fraud Friday

Release Date: August 1, 2025

In this engaging episode of the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast, hosts Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, and Michael Kay delve deep into the current state of the New York Yankees, analyzing recent trade moves, team dynamics, and managerial stability. Additionally, the episode features the popular "Fraud Friday" segment, where fans question their loyalty or actions as sports enthusiasts.

1. Yankees' Trade Deadline Moves and Team Assessment

Michael Kay initiates a comprehensive discussion on the Yankees' recent activities following the trade deadline. He highlights the front office's strategic acquisitions aimed at bolstering the bullpen and addressing roster gaps.

Michael Kay (02:36):
"Brian Cashman had a great trade deadline, but like David Stearns, he missed on one thing that he needed and that was to get a starter. But he filled the third base hole and vastly improved the bench with Slater, Camino, and Rosario."

Kay emphasizes that while these moves don't guarantee a World Series title, the Yankees have significantly strengthened their roster, making them formidable contenders in the American League.

2. Job Security of Manager Aaron Boone

A major point of contention arises around the job security of Yankees’ manager, Aaron Boone. The hosts debate whether Boone’s position is at risk if the team fails to secure a championship despite recent improvements.

Don LaGreca (06:49):
"Everyone expects this team to win a championship now. If they don’t, some are saying Boone could be fired. I completely disagree."

Michael Kay (07:00):
"He is not getting fired. The Yankees are not in the habit of paying people not to work. He has done everything this organization wants him to do and remains a great representative of the team."

Kay argues that Boone’s collaborative relationship with the front office and his managerial decisions, such as bullpen management, solidify his position. He counters the notion that Boone is solely responsible for potential failures, attributing accountability to a broader organizational effort.

3. Analysis of Yankees' Defense and Bullpen

The conversation shifts to evaluating the Yankees' defensive capabilities and bullpen depth post-trade deadline. Michael Kay provides a detailed assessment of key players and strategic improvements.

Michael Kay (04:16):
"McMahon's much better defensively than Perazzo. With additions like Caballero, who leads the majors in stolen bases, the Yankees can now clean up their defense and add speed to their game."

Kay outlines how these enhancements provide Boone with a multitude of options, enabling more strategic in-game decisions and strengthening the team's overall performance.

4. Aaron Judge's Health and Giancarlo Stanton's Role

A significant concern discussed is the health of star player Aaron Judge and the implications for Giancarlo Stanton's role on the team.

Alan Hahn (15:19):
"Aaron Judge's health is pivotal. If he can't play the field, Giancarlo Stanton may need to transition to a designated hitter role to protect his arm from further injury."

Michael Kay (17:06):
"Stanton becomes a very well-paid pinch hitter. The Yankees need to manage Judge's playing time to prevent aggravating his flexor tendon injury, which could lead to more severe arm issues."

The hosts explore potential lineup adjustments and the strategic use of Stanton to maintain offensive strength while safeguarding Judge's long-term health.

5. Comparison of Yankees vs. Mets Bullpen

A comparative analysis of the Yankees' and Mets' bullpens is presented, assessing depth, performance, and future prospects.

Alan Hahn (18:38):
"Who has the better pen, Mets or Yankees? I think the Yankee pen is deeper."

Michael Kay (19:52):
"The Yankees have a longer and deeper bullpen now with additions like Bednar and Doval. The Mets, while having made great moves, might not match the Yankees' bullpen depth."

Kay praises the Yankees for their bullpen enhancements, suggesting they possess one of the best bullpens in baseball, which could be a decisive factor in postseason success.

6. Fraud Friday: Fan Loyalty and Authenticity

The episode's highlight is the "Fraud Friday" segment, where listeners pose questions about their fandom authenticity. This week’s topics include fans supporting multiple teams, conflicting allegiances, and the pressures of being an out-of-market fan.

a. Zach from Central New York: Seahawks and Bills Fan

Zach's Question:
"If the Bills, my long-time team, beat the Seahawks, would I be a fraud Seahawks fan for celebrating their win?"

Alan Hahn (31:27):
"No, you wouldn’t be a fraud. You can support one team while still acknowledging another’s success."

b. Kalyn the Hockey Fan: Canadiens vs. Local NHL Teams

Kalyn's Question:
"I'm a die-hard Montreal Canadiens fan but feel pressured to support local teams like the Rangers or Devils. Am I a fraud?"

Alan Hahn (34:03):
"No, you shouldn't have to feel obligated to switch. Own your allegiance to the Canadiens."

c. Bernie from Virginia: Cowboys to Jets Fan

Ray's Question:
"Would I be a fraud if I left the Cowboys due to dissatisfaction with ownership and became a Jets fan?"

Alan Hahn (38:05):
"No, not necessarily. Complaining about ownership is common, but switching loyalty doesn't make you a fraud."

d. Matt from Upper East Side: Mets vs. Yankees Attendee

Matt's Question:
"Is wearing a Mets jersey at a Yankees game considered being a fraud?"

Don LaGreca (47:47):
"Yes, it’s being that guy who’s trying too hard. It’s more about being inconsiderate than fraud."

The hosts provide nuanced perspectives, often distinguishing between genuine fandom and actions that might be perceived as disingenuous or disrespectful to other fan bases.

7. Closing Remarks and Humorous Banter

The episode concludes with light-hearted conversations about personal anecdotes, including Michael Kay’s humorous take on paternity leave and the dynamics between the hosts. They also tease future segments and interactions with their interns, maintaining the show's signature blend of sports analysis and entertainment.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Alan Hahn (15:19):
  "Aaron Judge's health is pivotal. If he can't play the field, Giancarlo Stanton may need to transition to a designated hitter role."

• Michael Kay (07:00):
  "He is not getting fired. The Yankees are not in the habit of paying people not to work."

• Don LaGreca (04:00):
  "That's what leads us to what feels like a conversation that's now being had today..."

• Michael Kay (17:06):
  "Stanton becomes a very well-paid pinch hitter."

• Alan Hahn (31:27):
  "They have to stop calling it a failure. Getting to the World Series is not a failure."

This episode offers a comprehensive look into the Yankees' strategic moves and team dynamics while addressing fan concerns about loyalty and authenticity. Whether you're a die-hard Yankees supporter or a curious sports enthusiast, "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" delivers insightful analysis paired with relatable humor.