Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Episode: Hour 3: Kay v Mets Fans
Release Date: June 6, 2025

Overview

In this episode of the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast, titled "Kay v Mets Fans," hosts Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve into the escalating tension between Michael Kay, ESPN New York’s Yankees announcer, and New York Mets fans. The discussion unpacks recent incidents, analyzes fan reactions, and explores the broader implications for sports broadcasting and fan interactions.

Michael Kay vs. Mets Fans

Incident Breakdown The episode kicks off with the hosts recounting a recent on-air conflict involving Michael Kay and Mets fans. Michael Kay expressed his intention to attend the Mets versus Nationals game, aiming to engage directly with fans ("Michael wants to go to the Met Nationals game on Thursday" [04:30]). However, this move has stirred controversy due to longstanding tensions between Kay and Mets enthusiasts.

Conflict Origins Don La Greca explains that the friction began when Michael Kay allegedly referred to Mets fans using derogatory terms like "moths" or "fleas," sparking backlash on social media ("Michael was calling them moths or fleas..." [05:15]). This behavior is not an isolated incident; a recent article by Awful Announcing highlighted Kay's ongoing antagonism towards Mets supporters.

Michael Kay’s Defense Michael Kay vehemently denies any bias against Mets fans, asserting his professional relationships with Mets figures and emphasizing the accuracy of his on-air statements. He contends that the negative portrayal by fans is a result of misinterpretation and sensationalist media coverage ("Juan Soto has spoken to the media at least 100 times... not once" [07:45]).

Fan Reactions and Media Interpretation The hosts discuss how media narratives often distort the true nature of such conflicts. Don criticizes the headline-focused consumption of news, where "90% are going to react to what is a misleading headline" without understanding the full context ([16:30]). Peter Rosenberg adds that social media amplifies misunderstandings, making it challenging for professionals like Kay to maintain a balanced relationship with rival fan bases.

Hosts’ Perspectives

• Don La Greca emphasizes the importance of context and urges listeners not to jump to conclusions based on fragmented information. He highlights Michael Kay's intention to address critics directly at Citi Field, showcasing accountability ("Good on Michael to at least answer the critics" [12:10]).

• Peter Rosenberg offers empathy towards Kay, suggesting that confronting fans in person could help mitigate misunderstandings. However, he also acknowledges the unpredictability of fan reactions on social media ("They're going to shake his hand, they're going to high five..." [14:00]).

• Alan Hahn raises questions about whether other personalities, if they took similar stances, would face the same backlash, comparing potential scenarios with different teams ("Do you think Yankee fans would come after me?" [10:50]).

Listener Interactions

Tessa and Wes Caldwell's Fraud Question A caller named Tessa shares her experience of being accused of fraud at a sports bar event for wearing Yankees gear, believing it conflicted with her identity as a Knicks supporter. The hosts dissect her dilemma, discussing the fine line between supporting multiple teams and how fans perceive loyalty ("I didn't go through that this time... America are in the mixed case all..." [20:45]).

Mike in Annapolis on NFL Coach Tibbs Mike from Annapolis discusses his opinions on NFL coach Tibbs and the Buffalo Bills' performance under his leadership. He argues that despite consistent playoff appearances, the Bills may need a coaching change to advance further ("I’m not a fan. I don’t think he’s the reason that they’ve been good" [25:30]).

Patty in Brentwood on Michael Kay's Relationship with Mets Fans Patty expresses confusion over why Mets fans are targeting Michael Kay, especially since he publicly supports Juan Soto and the Mets' success ("He doesn't knock the Mets... Why are all these Met fans jumping on him?" [28:15]). The hosts explore the inherent bias that comes with being a Yankees announcer in a market with rival teams.

Ivan in Islip on Tyrese Halliburton Ivan provides his take on NBA player Tyrese Halliburton, criticizing the overhype surrounding him despite underwhelming performances ("He only scored 14 points. Can we calm down this superstar talk around Tyrese?" [35:10]). The discussion highlights the hosts' skepticism towards emerging sports stars who receive disproportionate attention.

Marvin in Sparta on the 'Fraud' Segment Marvin shares his journey as a Washington Commanders fan, grappling with team scandals and performance issues. The conversation touches on fan loyalty versus disillusionment, illustrating the complexities of supporting a team through its highs and lows ("Sometimes you're disgusted by your team... you just stick" [40:20]).

Additional Sports Discussions

NBA Finals and Player Performances The hosts briefly transition to the NBA Finals, discussing key players and pivotal moments. They debate the true impact of players like Tyrese Halliburton and the potential outcomes of ongoing series, maintaining their critical stance on perceived superstars and team dynamics ("But there's not too many players you want taking a last shot than him in the NBA" [33:50]).

Buffalo Bills’ Coaching Future Alan and Peter analyze the Buffalo Bills' coaching situation, debating whether Coach Tibbs deserves an extension based on team performance and playoff consistency. They explore the financial implications and long-term planning necessary for sustained success in the NFL ("Could I see that? Maybe if he doesn't win in the next couple of years..." [26:45]).

Conclusion

The episode concludes with the hosts reaffirming the importance of understanding context in sports journalism and fan interactions. They encourage listeners to engage thoughtfully with media narratives and maintain respect across rival fan bases. The impending ESPN New York Beach Bash is also mentioned, highlighting community engagement beyond the airwaves.

Notable Quotes:

• Don La Greca: "Good on Michael to at least answer the critics" [12:10]
• Peter Rosenberg: "They’re going to shake his hand, they're going to high five..." [14:00]
• Alan Hahn: "Do you think Yankee fans would come after me?" [10:50]

Key Takeaways

• Conflict Contextualization: Understanding the full story behind Michael Kay's interactions with Mets fans is crucial to avoid misinterpretation.
• Media Influence: Headlines and social media can distort narratives, emphasizing the need for comprehensive information consumption.
• Fan Loyalty Dynamics: Balancing support for multiple teams or addressing rival fan bases requires sensitivity and awareness of inherent biases.
• Sports Leadership Critique: Consistent performance does not always equate to effective leadership; coaching decisions significantly impact team success.

This comprehensive discussion provides listeners with nuanced insights into the complex relationships between sports broadcasters and fan communities, emphasizing the broader implications for sports media and fan engagement.