Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Summary Episode: Hour 3: Big Mets Test
Release Date: June 17, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast, the hosts—Don Hahn, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg—delve into the New York Mets' critical series against the Atlanta Braves. They analyze the implications of this matchup on the Mets' pursuit of the division title, offering insights, debates, and personal anecdotes that resonate with both die-hard Mets fans and casual listeners.

Generational Reflections on the Mets

Peter Rosenberg initiates the conversation by reflecting on "Generation K," a trio of pitchers—Wilson, Isringhausen, and Pulsifer—that once energized Mets fans. He nostalgically recalls fans eagerly anticipating their performances:

"You’ll remember Generation K... You met fans waiting with bated breath for these three amazing pitchers to all show up at the same time." [01:02]

Don Hahn and Alan Hahn join in, reminiscing about the significance of these players in Mets history and their enduring legacy 30 years later.

Steven Matz’s First Game Experience

Peter shares a personal story about attending Steven Matz's inaugural game, highlighting the emotional connection and the importance of such milestones:

"I was at Steven Matt's first game... I had like a 10 game package that I ended up getting." [04:33]

This segues into a light-hearted debate among the hosts about the relevance and impact of players' debut performances on their careers and fan perceptions.

Analyzing the Mets vs. Braves Series

The core of the episode centers on the upcoming seven-game series between the Mets and the Braves. Don Hahn emphasizes the strategic importance of this series in determining the Mets' standing:

"If the Mets can take care of business here, say win five of the seven games they could put the Braves to sleep as far as being anybody that could be a threat to them winning the division." [12:XX]

Peter Rosenberg concurs, noting the Braves' precarious position at eight games under .500 and their diminished threat to the division crown:

"Braves are not a good team. They're eight games under .500... Hopefully, the Mets can get back on track, take care of business and put the Braves to sleep." [15:XX]

Alan adds perspective on the Mets' resilience, comparing their current momentum to last year's successful season turnaround:

"Last year they started off, and they were steadfast. They were buyers. They made the right moves. They wrote it all the way to the NLCS." [17:22]

Current Performance and Key Players

The discussion shifts to key players influencing the Mets' performance. Pete Alonso’s batting prowess is lauded, while the management of pitching rotations, including Stephen Matz and recent injuries like Sanga's, are scrutinized:

"Pete Alonso versus last year, he has a hot bat now. Not lately, but he has a hot bat to start the season." [17:XX]

Don Hahn underscores the importance of a balanced rotation and bullpen to sustain the Mets' competitive edge:

"They are piecing together a rotation that they believe can work and a bullpen that they believe can work." [17:XX]

Yankees vs. Mets: Division Race Implications

The hosts explore the dynamics between the Yankees and Mets, contemplating whether both teams can remain atop the standings by July 4th. Don Hahn questions the likelihood:

"Can you believe, do you believe in your heart of hearts that on July 4th there'll be two first place teams playing against each other when the Mets and Yankees meet again?" [15:14]

Peter Rosenberg supports the possibility, citing the Yankees' weaker schedule against the Mets' stronger one:

"Yankee schedule is weaker and the Mets have a tough schedule. But again, the Braves are the bridge. They're nine games under .500." [15:23]

Listener Interaction: Mike’s Call on Bill Pulsifer

Listener Mike from Floral Park calls in to clarify Bill Pulsifer's current role as a pitching coach at a Long Island facility, helping to resolve earlier confusions about his background:

"He actually, he's a pitching coach at a training facility out in Belport on Long Island." [33:09]

This interaction underscores the hosts' commitment to providing accurate information and engaging with their audience.

Debate: Best Player to Never Win a Championship

A thought-provoking segment where the hosts answer the question, "Who is the best player to never win a championship in all of sports?" The discussion spans across various sports, highlighting legendary figures like Ted Williams and Dan Marino, and contemporary stars such as Chris Paul and Aaron Judge:

Don Hahn: "That was my answer. Ted Williams." [44:56]
Alan Hahn: "Dan Marino. It's damn." [45:00]
Peter Rosenberg: "Chris Paul’s going to the Hall of Fame." [46:52]

The conversation delves into the complexities of defining "best" based on individual prowess versus team achievements, reflecting diverse perspectives among the hosts.

Closing Thoughts and Upcoming Events

As the episode wraps up, the hosts maintain their engaging banter, touch upon upcoming baseball games, and tease future topics. They reinforce their passion for the Mets and provide listeners with a sense of camaraderie and anticipation for the team's prospects.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Peter Rosenberg on Generation K:
  "You'll remember Generation K... They all had their moments." [01:07]

• Peter on Steven Matz’s First Game:
  "I was at Steven Matt's first game... I had like a 10 game package that I ended up getting." [04:33]

• Don Hahn on Mets vs. Braves Series:
  "If the Mets can take care of business here, say win five of the seven games they could put the Braves to sleep..." [12:XX]

• Peter Rosenberg on Yankees' Schedule:
  "Yankee schedule is weaker and the Mets have a tough schedule." [15:23]

• Don Hahn on Ted Williams:
  "That was my answer. Ted Williams." [44:56]

Conclusion

This episode of "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" provides an in-depth analysis of the Mets' pivotal series against the Braves, intertwined with nostalgic reflections, player performance discussions, and engaging debates on broader sports topics. The hosts' dynamic interactions and meaningful insights offer listeners a comprehensive understanding of the Mets' current trajectory and the factors influencing their potential division triumph.