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Don Hahn
This is the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast.
Peter Rosenberg
That sounds like heaven to me.
Don Hahn
Listen live weekday afternoon starting at 3 on 880 ESPN, the ESPN New York app and your smart speakers.
Peter Rosenberg
Game time is brought to you by Telemardu Irish Whiskey. Because when it's game time.
Don Hahn
I like when he holds it.
Peter Rosenberg
Yankees arrays are currently in the old rain delay bottom of the fifth inning. They've been in the play now.
Don Hahn
520 though. We're going to resume.
Peter Rosenberg
520. Okay, seven four. The Yankees have the lead trying to take three out of four from the Rays. The Mets have the day off before they start a series with the Giants at Citi Field tomorrow. Tullamore, do the original triple distilled, triple blended and triple cast matured Iris whiskey. Be sure to grab a Telemore do or try the new Telemore do, honey, during today's action. Enjoy glasses. Enjoy enjoying. Tell them more do responsibly. There you go.
Don Hahn
Get it out.
Peter Rosenberg
So it's 505 in the big city. Two more interns we'll have between now and 6:30. Good luck.
Don Hahn
I mean, Gabby had a hot take, so I mean that set a tone. I feel like that set a tone.
Peter Rosenberg
It did.
Don Hahn
Calling out the owner of the Yankees. Boy, talk about taking advantage of your opportunity to get the.
Peter Rosenberg
I, I disagree with right to the top. But that's okay. You know, we can't all agree.
Don Hahn
No, but no, that was nice.
Peter Rosenberg
Nice hot take.
Don Hahn
Showed something moves today. So again, trade deadline, we're an hour away, a little less than an hour away. It feels like the Mets are done, right, Don?
Peter Rosenberg
There are reports that the Mets feel like it's done. They went and got Mullen, so they.
Don Hahn
Got their center field today and then Ryan Helsley yesterday. That's two significant moves.
Peter Rosenberg
So before we dive into the Yankees, let's analyze that. Okay, so they definitely over the last few days getting Soto, getting Rogers, making the Helsley deal that they definitely reworked the ballpark, which is something they absolutely had.
Don Hahn
That was job one.
Peter Rosenberg
They went out and got another bat improved offensively in center field. They didn't, it looks like as of now address a starting pitcher. So that could have been a place they've gone. But if I had to pick the area like you said, Don, you're going to get two of the three prioritize.
Don Hahn
Right.
Peter Rosenberg
The one that they didn't get done starting pitch I can live with because again, you got Senga, he got Maniah, he got Montage, you got Peterson.
Don Hahn
I don't think they need to start him.
Peter Rosenberg
You know, they don't, they don't.
Don Hahn
They don't value starting pitching.
Peter Rosenberg
They don't.
Don Hahn
In the way that you want to go out and get an ace. They weren't going to go get Bieber. They weren't going to, you know, they weren't going to do stuff like that.
Peter Rosenberg
Well, no, unless you're able to get somebody that you feel is better than what you already have.
Don Hahn
There you go.
Peter Rosenberg
And listen, you can tell me. Alcantara potentially could be better than anything they already have, but he could also be worse considering over the last couple of years he's had an earning average north of 4 and has not been the player he was when he was an all Star a couple of years ago. So I'm okay with that. The Yankees, they've addressed their bullpen. They've got themselves a closer today. They went out and got a couple of outfielders over the last couple of days. So you're the Yankee fan here. Are you happy or do you want to see more over the next 50 minutes?
Don Hahn
I'm not happy. I'm not unhappy. I'm content. I. What I didn't want to see is some type of fake hustle. No going for, going for it, but not going for. You know what I mean? Like moves that didn't make sense for a team that is screaming we're not worth it. That's what they're screaming. This team is like they, they are not a team that you want to invest in for this season. But what I like is the moves they've made include 20, 26 in the plan that I'm all in for because I do feel like if you're going to you, you have holes to fill, fill them, but make sure they also fill the whole next year as well. Let this be the deadline that you reference next season if the team finally finds its way next year and you say, boy, this is a good team. And hey, don't forget that move they made for Bednar was a great move. When you consider that they had to get a closer and they didn't, you know, you know, I mean, like you think of things like that. So it might not have been an impact on 2025, but boy, was that a great move. That's the kind of stuff I think you need to make because the all in type stuff doesn't fit the timeline of what this roster is telling you right now.
Peter Rosenberg
And getting back to what Gary Gabby said before about, you know, George wouldn't have stood for this. And I'm not going to blame gabby because she's 20 or a lot of our listeners who their only memory of George Steinbrenner was towards the end when.
Don Hahn
He was a sweet old man.
Peter Rosenberg
Him being all in seemed to always work.
Don Hahn
Yes.
Peter Rosenberg
But there were times, Alan and I remember where him being all in almost crippled the organization. Fred McGriff, you know, Fred McGriff, Doug Drabeck, Jose Rejoin, Jay Buhner, all for, you know, going after it right now. And those players didn't live up to expectations. You didn't win. And this was in an era where if you didn't win your division, you didn't go to the playoffs. And it crippled the organization. Whereas the running joke there were All Stars and future hall of Famers littered around Major League Baseball that were in the Yankees organization. And it wasn't until George was suspended and then actual baseball people came in, fixed it and then George saw how well it was fixed and he came in. Yes, he was aggressive and he spent the money and I understand the sentiment, but what you're kind of doing is I always said, I always argued with Michael about this. You created like a Frankenstein monster out of George where you kind of picked the good things and created a person that never really actually existed in real time.
Don Hahn
You know, he was a Seinfeld character. Yeah.
Peter Rosenberg
And so there was times it was really bad and when it got really good, he wasn't as in charge that that 2000. He died in 2010. That 2009 run was pretty much run by Hal.
Don Hahn
Yes.
Peter Rosenberg
And so there was a lot of good and there was a lot of bad too, and a lot of embarrassing things and being suspended for Major League Baseball and not having the best interest of the long term of the Yankees. So, yeah, the whole second place is first loser and all that's all great in theory, but getting to the point of the latter, George, a lot of damage was caused. A lot of embarrassment was caused too. So I can understand Hal kind of playing it a little close to the vest. I do think sometimes Cashman gets a little conceited with his own baseball knowledge. You want to show everybody how much smarter he is than everybody else instead of sometimes just doing the logical thing but analyzing where the Yankees are right now. I think he made moves that kind of burn the candle at both ends in a sense of like accomplishing two things at once. I made the team better in 2025, but it didn't come at the expense of when I think we're really going to be good in 2026. We've got a healthy Cole, we've got a healthy heel and Max Freed's going to be in his second year here.
Don Hahn
And Judge, you know, whatever he's dealing with, you hope by next year is now in the past, right? Whatever this is and whatever impact it's going to have on him and the ability to play right field, the ability to swing a bat, we don't know yet. We don't know.
Peter Rosenberg
If I had to guess right now I feel like he's not playing the field the rest of the year. I just have a feeling because they don't want to have happened to him. What happened to Harper where he now, you don't miss a full year with Tommy John as an everyday player the way you do as a pitcher, but you still miss a significant amount of time. And if you remember when Harper came back from getting the Tommy John, he, he was dhing, he was not playing the field. You know, they don't want to lose. Eventually they're going to have to make a decision to DH him full time or play him at first base. But right now he's a world class outfielder. You don't want to lose. And do you really want to take the chance of losing him in 2026 to throw him out in the outfield this year? So I don't have any inside information.
Don Hahn
But if I had to bet, I'd.
Peter Rosenberg
Say he's going to be your DH move.
Don Hahn
Don, who's your two most important players in this franchise?
Peter Rosenberg
The two most important players of this franchise, obviously Judge and Cole.
Don Hahn
Yes.
Peter Rosenberg
Yeah.
Don Hahn
All right. And what are both dealing with?
Peter Rosenberg
Yeah, both injuries and injuries.
Don Hahn
So this, this season's telling you this ain't it. That's my whole point as a fan. You always want to see your team just go all in and make big splash moves and transform the roster. And you got to understand that some years don't does not call for that. Some years call for make the look. Devin Williams is not on the contract after this year. Luke Weaver is another guy not on the contract. Right. So these are two guys that are where you're basically your closer and your second closer. They have not been great and you know we're going to have to either pay them next year or move on. So they replaced them. Don't you think that's what they're doing here? Yes, they're replacing them and it's a smart move. You have somebody for next year and if there's a cap coming, which is a lot of warning, you also don't want to have any Contracts that go beyond 26, and that's what they're doing here too. These are just steady moves. So when you ask me, am I happy, am I. I am content. That's it. I have no extra optimism. I just. This is. These are smart moves. Yeah.
Peter Rosenberg
As a Met fan, I'm happy.
Don Hahn
You know, and you should. The Mets feel like they're more all in. Like this feels.
Peter Rosenberg
And let's go.
Don Hahn
This feels like. Let's go.
Peter Rosenberg
Now it. Now it. And now it starts, you know, tomorrow against the Giants. Let's go to Steve and Pearl River. You're on ESPN New York. What's up, Steve?
Steve
Hey, guys. You know, that was a lot of stuff I was waiting on hold, but really what I wanted to talk about was this stuff about the fundamentals and the way the game is played and what happened now. You know, I watched the Yankees play the Reds. Okay. And I would have to say that arguably the most athletically gifted player in all of baseball is that shortstop De La Cruz.
Don Hahn
Oh, he's some. He's something to watch.
Steve
He doesn't. Great, great, except he doesn't know what out is. He doesn't know what basics.
Peter Rosenberg
He's also made a ton of Terry.
Steve
Okay. Yeah. And that's one of Terry Francona's guys. Okay. And then I gave myself a little homework assignment. Okay. And I started to watch games just based on this whole fundamentals team shielding, drawn to be. Let me tell you something, guys. You would have to fire three quarters of the manager to a baseball if that's going to be your big thing. If that's going to be your big ticket problem. Right. So apparently this is an industry wide problem.
Don Hahn
So you're saying you're seeing low IQ baseball all across the league.
Steve
I am saying. I am. I am saying. I'm not saying it's good and I'm not saying everything you guys have said is right. I'm not, I'm not disputing that. I'm just saying it looks like that's. That. That the whole fundamental thing is not something that's being stressed throughout Major League Baseball.
Don Hahn
I don't think. I don't think you're wrong. I think you're wrong.
Peter Rosenberg
I think, Steve, what it comes down to, because it's interesting. Who are we talking about here that are leaders in their position with errors? It's Volpe and it's Dela Cruz. What do both of those players have in common? Both of them were highly touted prospects within their organization. Both are quick moved up very quick. And both are expected to be stars, right? So what do you end up doing, Steve? Is that you baby them and you don't want to hurt their feelings. It's the new 21st century way of handling sports is let's not mess with their psyche. Oh, we don't want to discipline these guys because we don't want to ruin their confidence. And you treat them with kid gloves and then what you end up creating is a flawed ballplayer like Dela. Cruz is amazing. Tremendous speed, a hit for power. But he's got almost as many errors as Volpe does. And he forgot, never mind how many outs there were in the game against the Yankees. He forgot the score. But you're Terry Francona. You weren't there when they drafted him, right? And now you gotta fix them. Oh, but you know what? He also gives you the best chance to win. So you don't want to bench him, you don't want to hurt his feelings, you don't want to lose him. Because let's face it, as good as Terry Francona is, he's not good enough to lose, to win a face off against De La Cruz. Like I go or he goes, guess what? Francohn is gone.
Don Hahn
To me, that's a all sports event issue.
Peter Rosenberg
Absolutely.
Don Hahn
That has happened in the last 25 in all sports.
Peter Rosenberg
Look how poorly football has been played over the last couple of decades.
Don Hahn
Don, for a whole segment on what is how the NBA is not the same game it used to be played and has nothing to do with you. It has to do with fundamentals. The fact that. Think about this too. Off season training by a lot of these players is a very much individual thing now. Right to a point. And then during the season, what is something that you never do in the NBA season? They never practice five on five. They never spend five man practices. What they'll do is they'll have walkthroughs with five, but they'll never get. You only get that in training camp and then it stops. You know what happens? You ever see in the NBA fast breaks and guys don't know what to do. How many times the ball thrown away on a fast break? How many times do you not see like four passes or three passes on a fast break? You don't see that chemistry anymore because. Because they don't have enough time together. Because these guys are spending their summers working on their singular performance, not group. And so that's a fundamental that's missing baseball. They don't practice, they don't spend a lot of time together. So that's why you don't see that. The chemistry, the camaraderie, the timing, all that stuff in the infield. Simple baseball, things that we took for granted years ago, because they actually did put in the time for that. They don't do that stuff anymore.
Peter Rosenberg
What's the. The IMAX theater. Yeah, I remember when they. When they released the. Was it the 98 when the Bulls beat the Jazz in the NBA Finals? After it was. They released it in IMAX, so you can go watch it in the high def. Somebody had tweeted out some of that film just yesterday, and I was watching it, and the comments were like, look at the ball movement. Look at the set. It looked like a completely different game.
Don Hahn
And there was tempo because I don't have to worry about where I know you're gonna be there, because we've done it a billion times.
Peter Rosenberg
It was like watching another sport. And hockey's the same thing. Like, Dave would go crazy on a call, like back in my day, and it sounds like, get off my lawn. But like, little things that they just do anymore because it's all like, high skill. Just get in the zone. Just drive towards the net. No, no, more like, yeah, everybody between the leg passes, blind passes, instead of just doing the fundamental stuff. Get it?
Don Hahn
Yep.
Peter Rosenberg
Keep it simple. Stupid is something Dave would say all the time. The whole KISS method. Keep it simple. Stupid. You know, but it's all. It's. It's just different.
Don Hahn
Don't you see that?
Peter Rosenberg
Again, these coaches are like, all right, I need to coach him. But guy, that guy is so highly skilled, and he seems to score or he seems to do things well. And so I'm going to let it slide.
Don Hahn
Yes, but don't. We grew up watching the choreography of sports. And you just talked about a final series from almost 30 years ago. We have talked about. In hockey as well. You mentioned that. How about just something as simple as a 6, 4, 3 double play that when we. When you watch it and you see the choreography of it, it is like beautiful music. Right?
Peter Rosenberg
Right.
Don Hahn
And now it almost feels like it's like forced. Like it's. It. It doesn't have that same. I don't want to say ballet, but you know what I mean? Like, there's something about watching the game, the old days, and just the rhythm of it because they spent so much time together, they just don't do that anymore.
Peter Rosenberg
And to your point, why do you think all those years when there was no DH in the National League and why pitchers couldn't hit, why do you think Pitchers couldn't hit in practice, didn't they don't do it. They don't. They don't. They'll goof around and take dp. A guy like Madison Baumgartner who loved to hit.
Don Hahn
Some guys were serious about it, but.
Peter Rosenberg
Most of the time they focus on their pitching. They didn't care about their hitting and it suffered. Because these are all athletes. And I remember growing up, when I played high school, usually the best pitchers were the best hitters. Like the best athletes did everything well. But then when you stopped doing it and you don't hit ever and you don't take batting break, guess what? You become bad at it. So if all you're thinking about is hitting and you're not working on your fielding and you're not working on your fundamentals, you will become bad at it. Yes, because they're not taking the time. And in the NFL, it's great. The CBAs, the concussion protocols, all the things that they've worked on. But it's taken away from the time that they practice with pads, the times they get ready, less preseason games, they're not prepared for the season. Hockey and basketball, they're training camps like two, three weeks bang right into the season. And once they get into the season with three games and four nights and tons of back to backs, they don't practice during the season. Whenever I talk to a coach, all the years doing the Rangers say if I could just get a couple of days to work on the power play in practice, we try to do it in the morning, skate, but we can't. You're not allowed to practice after playing two days in a row. All those things hurt.
Don Hahn
Do you know why the European game is more fundamentally sound? Because they only play Thursday through Sunday. Right.
Peter Rosenberg
So they get time to work, they.
Don Hahn
Get a couple of you. They all. Because that's the thing is the idea of practice. But you what to do that. You'd have to cut back on games and everything else. There is just something about the group being together. There's also the fact that you're always. Players are changing and all that stuff. That's a real thing in sports. It's a real thing in baseball. It's interesting what the caller said about when you watch, you know, other teams, we're so hyper focused on our own teams that we're more critical of what we see. But it probably is a bigger issue around the sport. But for the Yankees though, it's a lot bigger because some of the mistakes, whether it is throwing errors, whether it is what we saw Wells do, which is not even know how many outs. Not even know how many outs. Listen, that's, that's a whole other story. And that's something again that makes this team scream to you. We are not weighing worth the all in trade deadline move.
Peter Rosenberg
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Don Hahn
Thanks for listening to the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast.
Peter Rosenberg
I didn't listen to anything you just said.
Don Hahn
Catch the show on demand whenever you want. Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts.
Peter Rosenberg
Is this the Barry song that Jacob Perry likes?
Don Hahn
Jake had homework.
Peter Rosenberg
I had a couple I like.
Don Hahn
This is one of them, but it's not the one. This is somewhere in the night I.
Peter Rosenberg
Made it through the rain oh, I.
Don Hahn
Made it through the rain. Fitting for today.
Peter Rosenberg
Very fitting. So, depending on where you are, there's some floods and stuff, so everybody is safe.
Don Hahn
Can you let Barry sing?
Peter Rosenberg
I'm sorry, there's a show to do. All right, listen, I love Barry as much as the next guy, but if you want to just listen. We got an hour and a half. Screw the deadline. We'll Just play Barry. Since I'll be on board, I'll get home early. I'll enjoy the show.
Don Hahn
Yeah, our last show.
Peter Rosenberg
It won't be great listening to it in with an AM signal, but it'll take me back because that's where I first heard the Barry stuff was.
Don Hahn
It is a fair point. Unless you have the app, then you're gonna get in quality sound.
Peter Rosenberg
There you go.
Don Hahn
The app is crystal clear.
Peter Rosenberg
Can't believe you're getting on me for talking over a parent.
Don Hahn
Well, I mean, he was about to begin singing.
Peter Rosenberg
Somewhere down the road our roads are gonna cross again.
Don Hahn
When I say crystal clear, what movie do you think of Crystal Clear? Yeah. Am I clear?
Peter Rosenberg
Oh, crystal.
Don Hahn
Crystal.
Peter Rosenberg
I. I should know that. So Anthony tells me Paraza Charlie traded.
Don Hahn
To the Angels per Jack Curry. Yeah, they were going to move on from Peraza. That was coming.
Peter Rosenberg
So that's it. So for. For what? Return a bag of balls?
Don Hahn
Does it matter? No. No word yet.
Peter Rosenberg
Free pass into Disneyland.
Don Hahn
Give it him. But if you're getting the Paraza to the Angels first, I can't imagine. It's maybe the 25th pick in the 2009 draft.
Peter Rosenberg
There you go. You know what?
Don Hahn
That's it.
Peter Rosenberg
He was the player to be named later in the Mark to Sherrod deal.
Don Hahn
Much later.
Peter Rosenberg
9193776. Let's get back to the busy phones and let's go to Robert in Boston. You're on espn.
Don Hahn
A Few Good Men, by the way.
Peter Rosenberg
Oh, yeah, of course. Hi, Robert.
Steve
Hey, how's it going?
Peter Rosenberg
Good man. What's up?
Steve
First and foremost, so, legrack, I met you back when Moe's Grill was opening in Westchester. You okay? Who are doing a broadcast there.
Peter Rosenberg
Okay.
Steve
You guys are wonderful.
Don Hahn
Oh, well, thank you.
Steve
So it's been a minute, and Han, over the years, spoke to you a few times. I remember speaking to you back when the Yankees were talking about trading Debbie Garcia from Madison Bum Garner.
Don Hahn
Oh, my goodness.
Steve
Do they go for it or do they not go for it?
Don Hahn
Debbie Garcia, another one of those. We can't let him go. Clutch him with both hands. Yes.
Steve
Yeah. And he was released by the brewers this past June. And. But think about it like back then. Do you. Do you trade your prospect for somebody that might have a little bit left in his arm? One of the greatest postseason arms in history, and are we not there again? It's like the Astros that said, hey, wait, the Yankees aren't going for it. Let's load up. Mariners. The Yankees aren't going for it. Let's load up and we're just right back there.
Peter Rosenberg
Maybe we're just back there, but here's. But there are organizations are in different spots, right? Like the Mariners have literally never been to a World Series ever. All right. They broke the record for wins in a season with 116 in 2001. Didn't even make it to the World Series. Right. So they probably feel a little bit more of a sense of urgency to make something happen than a Yankee team that is thinking, all right, if not now, there's a chance that next year, the year after, we'll be in a bit of a better situation. So I can understand some organizations being all in because they feel like, hey, I wouldn't call Seattle a small market, but it's like we're not going to, we're not going to have all these players. We're not going to be able to go out and spend big like the Yankees and the Mets and the Phillies and the Red Sox during the off season. So we've got to strike while the iron's hot. So some of these organizations, yeah, they might be feeding off, hey, the Yankees aren't going to for we will. But they may be going for it anyway because they're just in a different headspace than the Yankees are.
Don Hahn
I don't think it's. The Yankees aren't going for it, so let's go for it. I just think it's, you know, there's opportunity, let's take it and we don't have to compete with the Yankees for some of these players.
Peter Rosenberg
Oh, and also, and also you as a Yankee fan, into the Yankees. A certain extent, making a run to the World Series and losing feels empty. Seattle would die for a run like the Yankees last year. Right? Of course, if the Seattle Mariners are playing in game seven of a league championship Series, they're going to look at that as a home run. Where a Yankee fan would be like, oh, disappointment. We took a step back from last year. If the Seattle Mariners lose in game seven of the league Championship Series, they'll throw a parade in Seattle because when was the last time that team got that close to the World Series? Like, there's certain teams they're going to look know differently at a run.
Don Hahn
It's fair.
Peter Rosenberg
So I think that's that, that's what you look at more than anything else. Let's go to Freddie. He's in Jersey City. You're on ESPN New York.
Steve
Hey, fellas. Longtime listener, big fan of the show and congratulations, Don, on your, on, you know, getting, getting The Devil Show.
Don Hahn
Thank you.
Steve
And even though a Ducks fan here and tomorrow maybe we'll see if I'm a fraud or not.
Peter Rosenberg
Oh, yeah, we'll save that for tomorrow. I'm really curious. I'm curious about your Ducks origin story.
Don Hahn
Okay.
Steve
Yes, yes. Because, you know, hey, a little Disney related, right? You know, childhood.
Don Hahn
All right. Save it for tomorrow.
Steve
Yeah.
Don Hahn
Save for tomorrow.
Steve
Yep. So speaking on the Yankees, another. I'm a Braves fan, right. Just putting that out there. So I got a little.
Don Hahn
Yeah, yeah. You. You have no comments.
Steve
Yeah, exactly, exactly. So. But much respect for the Yankees, a legendary franchise. But I think, I think the fan base needs to like, maybe humble themselves a little bit because the rest of the market and the landscape have caught up. Just like basketball in the world, you know, they caught up. They're not the biggest shop on the block anymore, you know, and that's why they're allowing people with facial hairs coming in. They're changing their standards a little bit. They know they have to compete a little differently. And also, speaking of baseball, because the other caller made a good point about fundamentals and it is missing big time. When you watch the game, the averages are so low, Volpe and so many others, because they're not just trying to hit the ball. And you know, you taught Young, just make contact, hit that and don't go for the home run. You, you know what I'm saying? You make solid contact and drive the ball, you know, so. And I'm not an expert, but we know those are fundamentals and it's missing big time in the game. And it's. Overall, I was just talking with Anthony, who's another great, great guy on the show, and I said, hey, baseball is missing like these big marquee people easily in the 90s. I could name you 30 people off the top of my head who are hall of Fame, Famers, stars, you know, off the top of my head, you know Albert Bell, Frank Thomas, you know Paul Moner, Tony Gwynn. And that's just touching the surface there, you know, so. And I can't name you anybody like that today, you know, so I feel like baseball is missing that as a whole. They maybe have a good 10 to maybe 15 really good players, but right now it's the Yankees, it's, it's Judge and everybody else. I feel like this is solo.
Peter Rosenberg
It's Judge, it's Judge, it's Ohtani, you know, Freddie Freeman, 40, did last year. Like, there's a, there's certain names, but he's right. It's there's guys that are good at one thing and they're known for that. There's very few well rounded players. I think Judge is a very well rounded player without question. But really how many are very well rounded? We were just talking about Dela Cruz. Can't field great speed, his kit for power but comes at the expense of his fielding. There's other players that some hit for average. Not as many home runs hit a bunch of home runs, strike out a lot. It's a different game than we grew up with.
Don Hahn
There was just a time where each position you can name like three guys. Every position is like these three. These three. I know that that's changed too. I think the demographic of the sport has changed. That has something to do with it as well. There's a lot of things with baseball that have completely changed. But you know, again, the fundamental part of it is what we keep talking about and that really for us here in New York has been mostly about the Yankees because you would think the Yankees should be at a standard where you know how many outs there are in an inning. Especially in games where you need to win the game. You're in extra innings where you know just fielding and decision making. Throw to the cutoff man, don't try to throw it home when you have no chance of getting the out. Like things like that, that I think we see way too much. You just want to see a little more Johnny Hussle in this team. And I don't think you see it.
Peter Rosenberg
Just, just a baseball iq.
Don Hahn
Yeah, yeah.
Peter Rosenberg
That sometimes goes out the window. Danny on Long island. You're on ESPN New York. Hi, Danny.
Don Hahn
Hey, Danny.
Steve
Danny, a well rounded caller, not a well rounded baseball player.
Don Hahn
But we'll take it.
Steve
You know, first of all, Peter Rosenberg went into anaphylactic shock over the bumper music today. The Barry Manilow. He's cutting short of the vacation to get back up there to bring us a little hip hop because he. He's got to be, he's got to be losing it over these, these selections. Oh, I think he'll you mew but you know, he's getting, he's getting old. Twitch.
Don Hahn
Listen, he wanted to break.
Peter Rosenberg
He wanted to break and he took. He gets a turn relief and we've took advantage of the old men.
Don Hahn
Take over the. Take over the radio. We got the aux now listen.
Steve
And it's a big E. It's a trade trade deadline. E M He's not rushing in to do that. It's the biggest one of the year. But anyway, you Know, I'm very happy with the move the Mets made. Obviously, the two bullpen acquisitions are both really good guys. We just got a front row look at the guy from the Giants. I mean, he's, that's, that's unbelievable how to. You make a pitch like that and the ball starts three inches off the ground and ends up in the top of the strike zone. So basically it's elevating about five feet over the course of the, you know, the 60ft that he throws the ball. It's just, it's just, it's a great look. He looks solid pitcher. I'm glad we got a center fielder because the position is an abyss. I know the kid we had could play center field, but he's batting ninth and striking out.200 average. When you look at some of these other teams, like the Yankees played Philly, you just got a feeling they weren't as good as Philly. Mets play the Padres, you just got a feeling they can't out hit these teams. So we better, we better out pitch them and we better get a couple of people right in a hurry. And I'm looking at Alonso and the shortstop because they haven't hit in a long time now and, you know, just, I know it's good not to get in and then you get hot. But they got to straighten it out because it's just, it's not championship caliber offense at this point. It's, it's been good. They're in first place, no complaints. But it's just, it's just a weird way to be in first place when they really, you know, who's really doing good in the last month?
Peter Rosenberg
Well, look, they're, they're being helped out by. Every team's kind of the same. Philadelphia is the same thing. They've had a bad bullpen, their offense has been inconsistent, and they're kind of like the same team. And Philadelphia has been the gold standard recently of coming out of the National League east and went to a World Series recently. But they're flawed. The Dodgers are even flawed. All these teams are flawed. That's why we can analyze the Mets and Yankees and see their holes. And yet still here they are, you know, battling for first place and a chance to make the playoffs because you think their problems are unique to them. This is this again. I don't know how much baseball they talk in other markets, but I'm sure they're talking in Philadelphia and in Boston and in San Diego.
Don Hahn
The red. So what have they done?
Peter Rosenberg
Just like, what's up with Our team. What's the baseball iq? The fundamentals are. Because that the game is just. The game is in a bad place financially because I do think there's going to be a lockout, unfortunately.
Don Hahn
Yeah, I do too.
Peter Rosenberg
But it's also not all these sports really are not in the greatest place when it comes to the fundamentals and the intelligence behind playing it. Because it's become more analytics, it's become more just play to your skill set. And it's taken a lot of the well roundedness and I know I sound like the old man, get off my lawn. But a lot of the things that are tolerated today in all sports.
Don Hahn
Yes.
Peter Rosenberg
Would not be tolerated. When I played, when I first followed the sport, it would be a legit problem. And now it's not a legit problem. As a matter of fact, it's apologized for, it's defended.
Don Hahn
Yeah. We don't want to upset anybody anymore. And because it went too far and now it's too far the other way. And the sport, because of the money and because young talent is what everybody's excited about, you tolerate a lot more. So Paraza being traded by the Yankees, not a big surprise. They were gonna move on from him. He wasn't gonna get an opportunity to play. Now after all the moves that they made, they got back some international money and they got back a kid who was younger than all of our interns, a Dominican. A kid from the Dominican who was born in 2006.
Peter Rosenberg
Wow.
Don Hahn
Wilberson de Pena. 2006. 2006, Don.
Peter Rosenberg
19 years old. Maybe 18, depending on when his birthday is.
Don Hahn
Yeah.
Peter Rosenberg
This is, this is us problem.
Don Hahn
You know, we joke, we always joke about like the draft picks in the NBA. It's like traded away the 2030 draft, all these kids in fifth grade, who cares, you know? Right. Like, but that's kind of like who knows what this turns into. But I just, just looked him up. I saw the name, I looked him up and I was like, 2006. Thanks for listening to the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast.
Peter Rosenberg
I didn't listen to anything you just said.
Don Hahn
Catch this show on demand whenever you want. Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts.
Peter Rosenberg
Texas Rangers acquired right handed starting pitcher Merrill Kelly from Arizona. So they strengthen their rotation with a deal as we are 12 minutes away from the deadline. There's always a few deals that come down after 6 o'.
Steve
Clock.
Peter Rosenberg
They just got to get them into the offices by six. But we're getting into the closing moments here. So if I had to guess, I think the Mets and the Yankees are done, but we'll see. But you know who's not?
Don Hahn
The Knicks aren't done.
Peter Rosenberg
Right.
Don Hahn
So amid all of the baseball news, Don, we have some breaking news in the NBA from Sham Sharania and it's not a big surprise, but it is interesting. The Knicks and Mikhail Bridges have agreed to a four year old $150 million contract extension. So he is now all in. He does have a player option, but this thing goes all the way to 2030 now. So he's locked in. The Knicks have their team now.
Peter Rosenberg
You like.
Don Hahn
And the whole idea of chasing Giannis now is kind of out the window if you think about it.
Peter Rosenberg
Feels like it.
Don Hahn
Because you would, you would keep some flexibility. He could have waited till the summer and gotten more money on the free market, but his extension numbers were this and this is what he took. So this roster is locked in now and so the Knicks are, their business is done, aside from of course adding one more veterans minimum piece to fill out the roster. But this was the big, the big news you were waiting to see for the summer. So they took care of that business.
Peter Rosenberg
All right, we're just hearing the Yankees and the Rays just made a deal. So let's see what that is.
Don Hahn
Yep. The Yankees have acquired Jose Cavarel from the Yankees for Everson Pereira.
Peter Rosenberg
Cabrera would be pulled from the Yankees raised game tonight.
Don Hahn
He, he would only have to walk.
Peter Rosenberg
From third base to the first base side.
Don Hahn
He's right here.
Peter Rosenberg
I think they just struck him out.
Don Hahn
He was right there. They just had to pull him. So he just walked across the field with his bag like that'll be interesting. We saw that last a couple of days ago. Right. During a double header.
Peter Rosenberg
Yeah.
Don Hahn
Player went from one team to another.
Peter Rosenberg
So Jose Caballero is a fight. 28 years old, speedy shortstop.
Don Hahn
Yep.
Peter Rosenberg
Can play second base as well. So you know, strengthening, you know, the infield, maybe defensive replacement, utility infielder who's.
Don Hahn
Got some speed, you know. Yeah.
Peter Rosenberg
Again, not a huge needle mover, but it happened. Laura Baron is with us and we apologize. Things happen that have taken away from your time, so we do apologize. How are you?
Don Hahn
Well, that's, you know what we just got right into like the show.
Peter Rosenberg
I know.
Don Hahn
And you're just sitting there staring at us like, hey guys, I'm here.
Laura Barron
No, I'm listening, I'm taking it in. I know there's stuff going on.
Peter Rosenberg
Everybody else caught the break that there was not much going on, but we were getting towards the end of the.
Don Hahn
Day, did we not Hear the song coming in?
Peter Rosenberg
Yeah. Yeah. What was the song, Jacob?
Don Hahn
Focus Show. What was the. What was the. The walk up music for Lara?
Peter Rosenberg
It was the door. Teddy swims.
Don Hahn
Can I hear it? Yeah.
Peter Rosenberg
I got you.
Don Hahn
Okay. He doesn't have me.
Peter Rosenberg
The song you like or is there a certain message?
Laura Barron
No, there's no significance. But I love the song and I like the art.
Peter Rosenberg
Okay, There you go.
Don Hahn
It moves. Yes, absolutely. Who is it? This is good. This is good.
Peter Rosenberg
No, it sounds all right. I don't. I don't know who.
Don Hahn
You don't have to.
Peter Rosenberg
Well, I want to. For this particular moment. I feel like I'm at a disadvantage now.
Don Hahn
Very good, Larry. Your head's spinning right now. I know what's happening because there's so much happening right now. But, you know, again, as we've been talking to all of your whole group of interns, and it's great how you've all stayed. I can't believe no one's like, I'm out. Like, everybody's staying, supporting each other, which is really awesome. Wow.
Peter Rosenberg
We were in a state of emergency in New York and New Jersey, and you guys stayed. Yeah.
Don Hahn
The boss said everybody can go home. And you guys are like, nope, we're getting our time. And that's. And that's really. And that's great. So what? Because you have told us that you're somebody that is not really looking to be on the mic, you're also somebody looking to be in the business, on the business side of things. But you also shared that you like to write.
Laura Barron
Yeah.
Don Hahn
You know, that's a big part of this business, writing.
Laura Barron
Of course, yes.
Don Hahn
Writing is important for, like, that was my background as I started. And something that I was told when I moved into broadcasting is that the writing part of my background would actually help me. Because when you go on the air, a writer has the ability to turn phrases, to come up with ways to describe things. And all you have to do now, instead of typing it or writing it, is to say it. So really, it does make this medium easier for you.
Laura Barron
Yes. I mean, I've never done anything like this before, which is probably why I said originally the field that I wanted to go in maybe wouldn't be being an on air personality on the radio. But, I mean, no, I've never done anything like it. And I think it's so cool. Like, I'm so, like, happy to be here right now. I'm so grateful that you guys are allowing us to be a part of the show. But, yeah, no, I've always Been interested in reading and writing. I do a lot of that at school. I go to uf. So.
Don Hahn
Florida.
Laura Barron
Florida, yes, I go to Florida. And I've been loving everything that we do in the office, but I've been especially loving working in marketing the side and the brand partnerships. I think the events that we do here are so cool. And every partner that we work with seems so passionate about what we do here, and I just think the connections are amazing. Everyone just loves what they do and is so happy to be in the office all the time.
Peter Rosenberg
So what's your sport?
Laura Barron
My favorite sport to watch, I'd say, is football. And my favorite sport to play, I'd say, is tennis.
Don Hahn
Tennis.
Laura Barron
I'm a big. I've played sports my whole life. Growing up, I love. I've played not every sport, but a good amount of them, but I stuck with tennis.
Don Hahn
But you played tennis in high school.
Laura Barron
Yes.
Don Hahn
Can you beat Dave Rothenberg? Because he brags like he's this tennis. He. He was once a prodigy when he was a kid, but then he tried to murder another kid with a racket. Something terrible happened and then they wouldn't let him play anymore. But I mean, if, like right now, because he's an old man and he's a little heavy, do you think you could beat him?
Laura Barron
Honestly, I'm, I'm not sure. I played all four years in high school and I. I would say yes. I've played my whole life, but not that competitively and I haven't played in a long time. But.
Don Hahn
But he's old.
Peter Rosenberg
You might.
Laura Barron
And he might die and I might. Yeah, that might kill.
Don Hahn
Right, right, right. You get through one set, he's probably just.
Laura Barron
Yeah. If coughing up a lot, get him out early.
Peter Rosenberg
No, you're going to beat him. And people will take bets that he doesn't survive.
Don Hahn
He doesn't even make it.
Peter Rosenberg
It's not a debate.
Don Hahn
Does he tap out?
Peter Rosenberg
Without question.
Don Hahn
Without question.
Peter Rosenberg
That's how he's gonna lose.
Don Hahn
You think so now, are you, are you into pickleball? Because that's the thing now, that's like the craze.
Peter Rosenberg
So ping pong on the table.
Don Hahn
Ping pong. It's ping pong on the ground, basically.
Laura Barron
Yes, you have said that. And I, I agree with that. I mean, it's so much less running. It's so much less cardio, which is why I think it's like so big right now, especially because it's just easier.
Don Hahn
To do because old people don't have to run. Yeah.
Laura Barron
They don't have to Run as much, for sure. But for some reason, I'm just better at tennis. I'm not that good at pickleball. And isn't that weird?
Don Hahn
That is weird, because I figured it's all spin, isn't it?
Laura Barron
It's just about the ball bounce is so low. And so there is running because the ball bounces. You have to really get under it. But for some reason, I just. I'm. I. There's not. I feel like there's not. Not that much spin or much you can do because the racket's so small and the ball's like of air. So in tennis, I just feel like there's way more that you can do.
Peter Rosenberg
Of course.
Don Hahn
Oh, yeah. Place.
Laura Barron
Way more technique, for sure. Definitely harder.
Peter Rosenberg
But what was the highlight of your internship?
Laura Barron
The highlight of my internship. I mean, today. Like, we've done so much today, but this moment, I'd say is definitely a huge highlight for me. Like, I said, radio was not something that was, like, fully on my radar. I always was interested in it, of course, but I didn't know if I could picture myself doing what you guys do. But, I mean, I love it. Like, I think it's so cool. But. So today's definitely a highlight. But also the events, the Beach Bash and Tee It Up, I think those events were so cool to see. To talk to the people in the office and see how they were run and how they, like, worked on the partnerships and how everything was put together and helping them work on it and then being able to actually attend the event and see everything, it ran so smoothly. I just think that everyone here is so passionate about what they do, and they're so even keel, so calm, and no one really is, like, stressed out. I feel like everyone's just happy.
Don Hahn
You should be. I mean, this is. This is a fun business. Now, we've talked to three of you young women now that are interns that are in this business, and all of you have a sports background, an athlete background in some way, whether, again, playing in high school, whatever it is. And I, like, you know, I said this to Gabby about how you can be in this business because, you know, the glass ceiling's been broken. Like, there's. There's opportunities that weren't there maybe 20 years ago that are now. Therefore, you can dream and do whatever you want to do. But there's also, to me, a difference I've learned, because, you know, they always say, like, you don't have to have played a sport to cover the sport. But I've always said it helps.
Laura Barron
I agree.
Don Hahn
Like, I didn't play professional basketball, but because I played basketball, I think I understood, had a different feel for it than those who didn't play it.
Laura Barron
Definitely.
Don Hahn
And I also think that it doesn't matter what sport you played, but if you did play a sport competitively, at some point in your life, you get into the business world, you're different than regular people. Have you already seen that in this brief experience that you've had so far in the corporate world?
Laura Barron
Yes. I mean, definitely. I think that there are so many things that I learned about myself, about other people, about sports, about just everything about the world in general through the fact that I played sports my whole life that, like, I don't even realize is going on. But then in the back of my head, I'm like, you know what? Actually, maybe that is what's going on. Like, working as a team, I think, is such a big thing, like being able to, like, work with people or plan a team with people who you might not, like, get along with or you might think aren't as good or maybe they're too good. They don't belong on the right team. You know, you don't have a choice. So in the workplace, if you. You have to work with whoever is available to you, you don't have an option. And also, just being a leader, I think, is a big thing. Like, that was a big thing that my dad instilled in me when he was coaching me forever. So I think that that really helped me, like, take initiative when it comes to, like, group projects and things like that.
Don Hahn
Working with other people and staying competitive and dealing with adversity and being coached or being told what to do, understanding that, you know, something's expected of you and demanded of you that you have to produce. And if you don't, there's consequences where there's a lot of people that tend to not understand that and they don't do as well. So it's great that you have that.
Peter Rosenberg
Background, and it was a pleasure meeting you. Good luck with everything.
Laura Barron
All right, thank you so much.
Peter Rosenberg
Lara Barron, one of our interns.
Don Hahn
Thanks for listening to the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast. I don't want to know how the sausage is made, man. I just want to know. It's good. Hear more of Don Allen and Peter weekday afternoon starting at 3 on 8 80, ESPN, the ESPN New York app, and your smart speakers.
Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Summary: Hour 3 – Just Content
Podcast Information
Discussion Overview: The hosts delved into the recent trade deadline activities, focusing primarily on the New York Yankees. They analyzed the Yankees' acquisitions, including catcher Jose Cabrera and center fielder Trayce Thompson, assessing whether these moves align with both immediate and long-term team strategies.
Key Points:
Yankees’ Acquisitions: The Yankees focused on strengthening their bullpen and improving their offensive capabilities in center field, opting not to pursue starting pitching reinforcements.
Long-Term vs. Short-Term: Don Hahn expressed contentment with the Yankees' approach, appreciating moves that not only address current gaps but also consider future seasons. He stated, “These are smart moves. I am content” (08:10).
Bullpen Enhancement: The addition of a closer was highlighted as a strategic move to bolster the bullpen, ensuring the team remains competitive in tight games.
Notable Quote:
Don Hahn on the Yankees’ strategy:
"These are smart moves. I am content." (08:10)
Discussion Overview: The conversation shifted to the New York Mets, who appear more aggressive in their trade dealings. The hosts compared the Mets’ approach to that of the Yankees, suggesting the Mets are positioning themselves more fervently for postseason success.
Key Points:
Mets’ Acquisitions: The Mets acquired key players like Mullen, enhancing their defensive lineup, and addressing offensive needs with additional center fielders.
Comparative Analysis: Peter Rosenberg noted, “As a Met fan, I'm happy” (09:15), indicating satisfaction with the Mets’ proactive stance in the trade market.
Future Prospects: The Mets’ moves are seen as laying a stronger foundation for future seasons, contrasting with the Yankees' balanced approach.
Discussion Overview: A significant portion of the episode was dedicated to critiquing the decline in fundamental skills across various sports, particularly baseball. The hosts lamented the shift towards analytics and specialized skill sets at the expense of well-rounded athleticism and teamwork.
Key Points:
Baseball Fundamentals: Don Hahn criticized the Yankees for lack of basic game understanding, such as knowing the number of outs in an inning, which undermines their performance under pressure.
Comparative Sports Analysis: The hosts compared baseball to the NBA and NHL, highlighting how modern practices have eroded the fundamental skills that once made sports more cohesive and enjoyable. Don Hahn remarked, "How you practice fundamentals is different now, and it's impacting the game." (13:58).
Impact of Analytics: Peter Rosenberg argued that an overreliance on analytics has led to a decrease in player versatility and on-field intelligence:
"It's become more analytics, it's become more just play to your skill set. And it's taken a lot of the well roundedness..." (32:37).
Notable Quotes:
Don Hahn on Yankees' fundamentals:
"You just want to see a little more Johnny Hussle in this team. And I don't think you see it." (28:59)
Peter Rosenberg on analytics in sports:
"It's become more analytics, it's become more just play to your skill set. And it's taken a lot of the well roundedness..." (32:37)
Discussion Overview: The hosts discussed key player performances and injuries affecting their teams, with a particular focus on Aaron Judge and Cole Hale of the Yankees.
Key Points:
Aaron Judge’s Injury: Concerns were raised about Judge’s health and how it might impact his performance in the current and upcoming seasons.
Bullpen Concerns: The loss of key bullpen pitchers, Devin Williams and Luke Weaver, was highlighted as a significant factor influencing team dynamics.
Notable Quote:
Don Hahn on player injuries:
"Judge, you know, whatever he's dealing with, you hope by next year is now in the past, right?" (07:04)
Discussion Overview: Shifting focus to the NBA, the hosts announced that the New York Knicks have secured a four-year, $150 million contract extension with Mikhail Bridges, solidifying his role within the team.
Key Points:
Contract Details: Bridges' extension locks him into the Knicks’ roster until 2030, indicating a significant commitment to his talents.
Team Strategy: This move suggests the Knicks are stabilizing their lineup and moving away from aggressive free-agent pursuits, such as chasing players like Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Notable Quote:
Don Hahn on the Knicks’ extension:
"He is now all in. He does have a player option, but this thing goes all the way to 2030 now. So he's locked in." (34:17)
Discussion Overview: As the trade deadline approached, final moves were scrutinized, including the Yankees acquiring Jose Cabrera from the Rays in exchange for Everson Pereira.
Key Points:
Trade Details: The Yankees secured a versatile infielder in Cabrera, aiming to strengthen their infield defenses and add depth.
Implications: While not a transformative acquisition, the trade underscores the Yankees’ intent to address specific team needs without overextending financially.
Notable Quote:
Peter Rosenberg on the trade:
"He's a speedy shortstop who can play second base as well. So, you know, strengthening the infield, maybe defensive replacement, utility infielder." (35:26)
Discussion Overview: The episode featured an engaging segment with Laura Barron, one of the show's interns. She shared her experiences and insights from her internship, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and leadership cultivated through her athletic background.
Key Points:
Teamwork and Leadership: Laura highlighted how her sports experience has honed her ability to work collaboratively and take initiative in professional settings.
Internship Highlights: She praised events like the Beach Bash and Tee It Up, noting the seamless execution and passionate partnerships involved.
Notable Quotes:
Laura Barron on teamwork:
"Working as a team, I think, is such a big thing... and being a leader, I think, is a big thing." (43:03)
Don Hahn on sports background in business:
"If you did play a sport competitively, at some point in your life, you get into the business world, you're different than regular people." (42:46)
Discussion Overview: In the closing moments, the hosts recapped the main discussions, reaffirming the current state of their favorite teams and expressing optimism or concern based on recent moves and performances.
Key Points:
Yankees and Mets Outlook: The Yankees appear content with their strategic moves, while the Mets are gearing up aggressively for postseason success.
Sports Fundamentals: A continued call for a return to fundamental skills and teamwork across all sports to enhance performance and enjoyment.
Closing Quote:
Don Hahn on listening to the show:
"Catch this show on demand whenever you want. Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts." (33:53)
Conclusion: In "Hour 3: Just Content," Don, Hahn, and Rosenberg provided a thorough analysis of the MLB trade deadline, scrutinizing the strategic moves of the Yankees and Mets. They passionately discussed the decline in sports fundamentals, drawing comparisons across different leagues and emphasizing the need for a balanced approach between analytics and fundamental skills. Additionally, the episode highlighted fresh NBA developments and showcased the valuable perspectives of their interns, enriching the conversation with real-world experiences and aspirations.