Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 2: Soto & Deadline Reaction

Podcast Information:

• Title: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg
• Hosts: Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg
• Episode: Hour 2: Soto & Deadline Reaction
• Release Date: March 7, 2025

1. Knicks Injury Update

Timestamp: [00:43] - [03:56]

The episode kicks off with Alan Hahn addressing listeners about the current status of Jalen Brunson's injury before the Knicks' game against the Clippers. Despite the anticipation, there remains no official update on Brunson's condition.

Alan Hahn:
“Still waiting for anything official on the Jalen Brunson front as far as injury report. The Knicks do play tonight against the Clippers.”
[00:43]

Alan emphasizes the uncertainty surrounding Brunson's availability and assures listeners that updates will follow as they become available.

2. NHL Trade Deadline Reaction

Timestamp: [04:00] - [15:26]

The conversation shifts to the NHL trade deadline, which recently concluded. Alan Hahn and Michael Rosenberg delve into the implications of various trades, particularly focusing on the New York Rangers and the broader league dynamics.

Alan Hahn:
“Some things that are not entirely official, but we have heard some pretty, pretty big ones.”
[03:56]

They discuss potential significant moves that could influence team standings post-deadline, setting the stage for deeper analysis later in the episode.

3. Juan Soto's Team Selection

Timestamp: [03:56] - [10:55]

A major highlight of the episode is the discussion surrounding Juan Soto and his recent interview with the Spanish-language media outlet, Abriendo Sports. Soto revealed that five teams made the final cut for his signing: the Mets, Yankees, Red Sox, Blue Jays, and Dodgers. Contrary to expectations that financial incentives were the sole motivators, Soto hinted at other factors influencing his decision.

Michael Rosenberg:
“He said in this interview that five Teams made the final cut for him... The final teams were the Mets, the Yankees, the Red Sox, the Blue Jays and the Dodgers.”
[04:50]

Soto admitted that while some teams offered more money, his decision to join the Mets was influenced by non-financial factors, sparking debates about his true motivations.

4. Analysis of Mets' Decision

Timestamp: [10:55] - [16:35]

Alan Hahn and Michael Rosenberg dissect Soto's choice, questioning the authenticity of his statements about valuing family engagement over money. They explore the possibility that Soto's preference for the Mets may still have underlying financial motivations despite his claims.

Alan Hahn:
“It could suggest he was not all about the money or getting the most money, which is what he only was going to take the highest, whoever was going to be the high.”
[04:50]

The hosts debate whether Soto genuinely prioritized the Mets' family-friendly atmosphere or if economic factors still played a significant role in his decision.

5. Rangers' Roster Reimagining

Timestamp: [24:37] - [33:16]

Transitioning to hockey, Alan Hahn and Michael Rosenberg analyze the New York Rangers' recent trades and strategic moves as they attempt to rebuild and remain competitive. The discussion highlights key player trades, acquisitions, and the overall direction of the team under new management.

Michael Rosenberg:
“He did it without blowing it up because I still think this team is still very competitive.”
[27:13]

They commend the Rangers for making calculated moves that balance rebuilding with maintaining competitiveness, ensuring the team remains in playoff contention.

6. Playoff Outlook and NHL Contenders

Timestamp: [33:16] - [39:14]

The hosts provide insights into the current NHL playoff landscape, identifying teams poised to contend for the Stanley Cup. Michael Rosenberg points out Dallas and Florida as emerging powerhouses, while Alan Hahn underscores the increased competitiveness across the league.

Alan Hahn:
“There are no cupcake teams anymore. That's the other thing.”
[37:52]

They discuss the implications of recent trades and team performances, forecasting a highly competitive playoff season with multiple strong contenders.

7. Listener Call-ins

Timestamp: [43:21] - [46:44]

Engaging with their audience, Alan Hahn, Michael Rosenberg, and Don La Greca entertain listener calls that touch on personal anecdotes and additional sports commentary. One notable call from Felicia in Mississippi discusses her views on the Rangers' trade decisions and the importance of grit in team dynamics.

Felicia:
“I think he's just a bad. He's just a bad defender. This is why the Yankees didn't pay.”
[43:32]

These interactions add a personal touch to the episode, reflecting the hosts' rapport with their audience and providing diverse perspectives on ongoing sports narratives.

Notable Quotes:

• Alan Hahn:
  “It wasn't about the money he'd spend the next 15 years with the Mets. Wouldn't the best narrative coming out of this is that I'm not just all about the money, that I wanted to be a Met.”
  [04:50]

• Michael Rosenberg:
  “This fuels the fire. There's no question about it.”
  [11:39]

• Alan Hahn:
  “There are no cupcake teams anymore. That you're like, oh, the eighth seed sucks. You just don't get that anymore.”
  [37:52]

Conclusions:

The episode offers a comprehensive exploration of current sports narratives, from basketball injury updates and MLB player decisions to intricate NHL trade analyses and playoff forecasts. The hosts engage in thoughtful debates, weighing financial incentives against personal and team-centric motivations, particularly in Juan Soto's decision to join the Mets. Additionally, the Rangers' strategic roster changes and the evolving competitiveness of the NHL landscape are scrutinized, providing listeners with in-depth insights and diverse viewpoints.

Listeners are left with a nuanced understanding of how financial considerations, team atmosphere, and strategic trades interplay in shaping the trajectories of both MLB and NHL teams. The episode underscores the complexity of professional sports decisions and the multifaceted factors that influence them.

For those who missed the episode, be sure to subscribe to the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast on ESPN New York app, smart speakers, or your preferred podcast platform to stay updated on all things New York sports and beyond.