Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Summary
Episode Title: Hour 2: Necessary Changes
Release Date: July 8, 2025
Hosts: Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg
Description: ESPN New York and New Jersey's legendary sports voices discuss the latest in New York sports, offering insights, opinions, and engaging conversations on various topics.
1. Introduction to Yankees' Roster Adjustments
The discussion kicks off with the hosts delving into recent changes within the New York Yankees' roster, focusing primarily on the repositioning of DJ LeMahieu.
Peter Rosenberg [01:28]:
"Here's Aaron Boone talking about the Yankees. He's playing second tonight. We'll continue to work through it again, depending on all the moving parts and things that could possibly happen."
Alan Hahn [02:07]:
"Fluid means back and forth, right? Fluid means it's moving all over the place."
The team analyzes the implications of shifting LeMahieu to second base, questioning the necessity and potential impact on his performance and the team's dynamics.
2. Impact on Key Players
The conversation shifts to the future of DJ LeMahieu, highlighting concerns about his aging and performance.
Peter Rosenberg [03:36]:
"Peraza was in the lineup when they scored. He's not a great offensive player, but if he can play great defense, I think that makes up for it."
Alan Hahn [04:14]:
"This is the first step in showing you, okay. The status quo is no longer acceptable."
The hosts express skepticism about LeMahieu's ability to remain a daily player, suggesting that his role might diminish to a bench position or limited playtime.
3. Bullpen Struggles and Injuries
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the Yankees' bullpen issues, exacerbated by injuries to key relievers like Mark Leiter Jr.
Alan Hahn [10:55]:
"Mark Leiter Jr. is a workhorse. He sustained a stress fracture in his left leg covering first base in the extra inning game in Cincinnati."
Peter Rosenberg [12:28]:
"I cannot believe their bullpen is just. He pitched in four games since the Cincinnati series... That's crazy."
The hosts discuss the strain on the bullpen, emphasizing the challenges posed by Leiter Jr.'s injury and the lack of depth in the pitching staff.
4. Trade Deadline Strategies
The conversation moves to potential strategies the Yankees might employ as the trade deadline approaches, considering the team's numerous roster holes.
Alan Hahn [41:00]:
"If you can get two in a trade that are sort of disposable arms, not like going to cost you a ton, and then find a Triple A guy who suddenly becomes important, you just go with him."
Peter Rosenberg [43:17]:
"Who is going to give up the most? Who's going to be the most aggressive?"
The hosts debate the feasibility of the Yankees making impactful trades without sacrificing top prospects, highlighting the competitive nature of the trade market.
5. Future Outlook and Team Morale
Wrapping up, the hosts reflect on the Yankees' current standing and future prospects, emphasizing the importance of internal adjustments and maintaining focus.
Peter Rosenberg [45:51]:
"If you're three and a half out on July 31, you might have to think about, forget about the championship. I got to find a way to win this division."
Alan Hahn [45:48]:
"Division. So I'm avoiding Wildcats."
The episode concludes with an optimistic yet cautious outlook, urging the team to concentrate on consolidating their strengths and addressing weaknesses to improve their standing.
6. Listener Engagement and Personal Stories
Interspersed with the main discussion, the hosts engage with listeners, sharing personal anecdotes related to aging and health, adding a relatable dimension to the episode.
Alan Hahn [21:49]:
"When you take the train, you got all kinds of time. I watched that all the way to the end, and it's exactly what you said. You get caught up in this."
Peter Rosenberg [27:45]:
"I'm in the same way. All the men on my father's side didn't make it to 60."
These segments provide a personal touch, illustrating the hosts' connections beyond sports and resonating with listeners facing similar life challenges.
Notable Quotes:
- Peter Rosenberg [03:36]: "Peraza was in the lineup when they scored. He's not a great offensive player, but if he can play great defense, I think that makes up for it."
- Alan Hahn [10:55]: "Mark Leiter Jr. is a workhorse. He sustained a stress fracture in his left leg covering first base in the extra inning game in Cincinnati."
- Peter Rosenberg [43:17]: "Who is going to give up the most? Who's going to be the most aggressive?"
- Peter Rosenberg [45:51]: "If you're three and a half out on July 31, you might have to think about, forget about the championship. I got to find a way to win this division."
This episode offers a comprehensive analysis of the New York Yankees' current challenges and necessary adjustments, blending professional insights with personal reflections to provide a well-rounded perspective for listeners.