Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 3: FA Moves

Release Date: June 30, 2025
Hosts: Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg
Description: Hosted by ESPN New York’s Don La Greca, sportswriter Alan Hahn, and WWE personality Peter Rosenberg, the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast delves into New York sports and beyond with insightful discussions and lively debates.

1. Yankees’ Performance and MVP Race

The episode kicks off with an in-depth analysis of the New York Yankees' recent performance. Peter Rosenberg critiques their offensive shortcomings despite maintaining a leading position in their league.

Peter Rosenberg [01:01]:
"The Yankees are kind of like the Mets in the sense that there's issues. But the Yankees are in first place. They did allow the Blue Jays and the Rays to kind of get back in it. But I still think the Yankees are going to be okay."

Don La Greca explores the potential of Aaron Judge securing the AL MVP title, highlighting his defensive prowess and recent home run surge.

Don La Greca [02:02]:
"Is he your ALMVP at the break at the halfway point?"

Peter Rosenberg [02:07]:
"I guess there'll be a lot of votes for Raleigh because he's got two more home runs. He's a catcher."

2. Comparing the Yankees and Mets

The hosts draw comparisons between the Yankees and the Mets, particularly focusing on their offensive capabilities and pitching strengths. While the Yankees benefit from a robust bullpen and reliable starting pitchers like Freddy Freed, the Mets struggle offensively and with pitching consistency.

Peter Rosenberg [04:58]:
"Rodin's been better this year than he's been, you know, certainly last year. And Freed is just, he's on his way to a Cy Young Award."

Don La Greca [05:08]:
"I think he's going to be in the Cy Young conversation. Sure."

3. Free Agency Moves: Nolan Arenado and Potential Trades

A significant portion of the discussion centers around potential free-agent moves, particularly Nolan Arenado. The hosts debate the feasibility of the Yankees or Mets acquiring Arenado from the St. Louis Cardinals, considering his performance decline and hefty contract.

Peter Rosenberg [12:45]:
"I think they would. Yeah. I think if they can move the salary. They would, because they were trying to do it."

Don La Greca [17:08]:
"Just pay him more. Like because again in baseball you can just pay him 13%."

The conversation delves into the complexities of salary negotiations, tax implications for teams based in high-tax states like New York and California, and the strategic decisions teams must make in balancing payroll with performance.

4. Tax Implications on Sports Contracts

The hosts examine how differing state tax rates impact team budgets and player salaries. They argue for adjustments in salary caps to account for higher taxes in states like New York, ensuring fair competition across regions.

Peter Rosenberg [16:38]:
"But it seems like an easier thing to figure out, but. Because nobody will cry about it as well. Why would we want to help the Rangers out, you know?"

Don La Greca [16:45]:
"Makes me so mad."

5. NHL Trades and Player Movements

Transitioning to hockey, the conversation touches on the potential trade of Mitch Marner from Toronto to Vegas, amidst allegations of tampering. The hosts discuss the implications for both teams and the broader NHL landscape.

Peter Rosenberg [08:14]:
"Vegas. He's out of Toronto now the Vegas has to sign."

Don La Greca [08:29]:
"Do you have the sound of Mitch Marner?"

6. Knicks Coaching and Front Office Decisions

The episode shifts focus to the New York Knicks, exploring the recent coaching changes and the challenges of integrating a potential female head coach in a high-pressure environment.

Peter Rosenberg [31:58]:
"Can play for her."

Don La Greca [32:08]:
"Imagine what would be for and do it in New York."

7. Audience Engagement and Personal Stories

Throughout the episode, the hosts interact with callers, sharing personal anecdotes and engaging in light-hearted banter. They discuss recent events like the Beach Bash concert, their experiences with live performances, and fan interactions.

Don La Greca [25:36]:
"I love you guys for that. So I had a great time."

Peter Rosenberg [27:03]:
"We got the best fans. I really mean that because you guys have been through a lot recently with all the changes."

8. Concluding Thoughts and Future Planning

In their closing remarks, the hosts express gratitude towards their listeners and discuss plans for future episodes, including potential musical performances and deeper dives into sports strategies.

Don La Greca [28:05]:
"Let's do it."

Peter Rosenberg [36:00]:
"It won’t do like that."

Key Takeaways:

• Yankees vs. Mets: While both teams face offensive challenges, the Yankees maintain a stronger position due to their pitching staff and bullpen.

• MVP Contenders: Aaron Judge stands as a frontrunner for the AL MVP, bolstered by his defensive skills and home run performance.

• Free Agency Dynamics: The acquisition of players like Nolan Arenado is fraught with financial and strategic complexities, especially concerning team budgets and player performance.

• Tax Considerations: High state tax rates significantly impact team payroll decisions, prompting discussions on adjusting salary caps for fairness.

• Hockey Trades: Potential moves in the NHL, such as Mitch Marner’s trade, could reshape team dynamics and league standings.

• Knicks’ Future: The Knicks face coaching uncertainties, with considerations towards innovative hires like female head coaches amid high expectations.

• Community Engagement: Strong listener support and engagement remain pivotal for the hosts, fostering a loyal and interactive fan base.

Notable Quotes:

• Peter Rosenberg [01:01]:
  "The Yankees are kind of like the Mets in the sense that there's issues."

• Don La Greca [02:02]:
  "Is he your ALMVP at the break at the halfway point?"

• Peter Rosenberg [16:38]:
  "But it seems like an easier thing to figure out."

This episode of "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" offers a comprehensive look into the current state of New York sports, free agency movements, and the intricate balance teams must maintain between performance and financial constraints. With engaging discussions and expert insights, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the strategic decisions shaping their favorite teams.