Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Summary
Episode: Hour 3: Last Call Crew
Release Date: March 1, 2025

In this engaging episode of the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast, hosts Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve into a variety of hot topics surrounding New York sports, particularly focusing on the New York Yankees, the New York Giants' quarterback situation, and the Brooklyn Nets' Mikel Bridges' performance slump. The episode features insightful discussions, passionate debates, and interactions with callers, all enriched with the hosts' trademark wit and expertise.

Yankees Tradition vs. Steinbrenner Era

The episode kicks off with a listener named Lavelle voicing his concerns about the New York Yankees' current direction. Lavelle emphasizes the need to distinguish between the storied Yankees tradition and the more recent Steinbrenner-influenced changes. He criticizes recent decisions, such as playing the Sinatra version of "New York, New York" after a loss, which he feels undermines the team's proud legacy.

Lavelle [02:05]: "We got to separate what's Yankee tradition from what Steinbrenner tradition. That goes for the beards...things like they've been doing lately suggest they're sort of distancing themselves from what would always made them great."

Don counters Lavelle's frustration by highlighting the enduring prestige of the Yankees brand, regardless of their recent performances.

Don LeGreca [05:37]: "The Yankee brand, Peter, always had prestige whether or not they were winning championships. They weren't losing. They haven't had a losing season in forever."

Peter Rosenberg echoes Don's sentiments, reinforcing the idea that the Yankees' legacy remains untarnished by current challenges.

Peter Rosenberg [05:36]: "Right?"

This segment underscores the tension between maintaining a historic sports brand and adapting to contemporary management and performance issues.

Giants' Quarterback Quandary: The Aaron Rodgers Debate

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the New York Giants' quarterback situation, specifically the potential acquisition of Aaron Rodgers. Caller Michael advocates for Rodgers, arguing that his presence could revitalize the Giants' competitiveness.

Michael [08:37]: "I think it's a positive thing for the Giants next year. ... if we just have a competent offense for next season with Rodgers, I don't see why we can't at least look competitive."

Peter supports Michael's view but emphasizes the importance of securing a quarterback who can commit long-term.

Peter Rosenberg [09:12]: "I agree with you and I would argue that the only thing that would be better than Rodgers would be if you love one of the first two quarterbacks and you know that you can get them and that they won't be picked up by Tennessee and Cleveland."

Don discusses the strategic considerations of drafting versus signing a veteran quarterback like Rodgers. He questions the Giants' long-term plans and signals regarding their draft strategies.

Don LeGreca [09:31]: "But what if you don't believe either one or if the one you don't do it to you is the guy, then you don't draft him...you still need somebody to play and you can't just keep taking beating after beating each season."

Peter reinforces the need for decisive action, suggesting that indecision could lead to poor team performance.

Peter Rosenberg [10:16]: "Whatever it is here. You can't tell me all we weren't sure about this quarterback. We went and drafted him. Just know what you're doing and be committed to doing it."

The discussion highlights the Giants' dilemma between investing in a proven veteran to achieve immediate success versus building for the future with draft prospects.

Shadar Sanders' Comments and Giants' Reception

Another intriguing topic arises from a caller discussing Shadar Sanders' recent remarks towards the Giants. The caller speculates that Sanders may be leveraging his comments to position himself favorably with the Giants.

Caller Ron [11:12]: "Shadar Sanders... he's pitching to the Giants because he... he wants to go there."

Don counters this interpretation, suggesting that Sanders' comments might instead reflect frustration with the Jets' management and signaling potential internal disagreements.

Don LeGreca [12:30]: "I actually think it's the opposite. I think it's more about the Jets... he might be saying, like, you're trying to... you don't want me."

Peter adds that while Sanders may have a good character, his recent statements come across as brash, potentially masking deeper issues.

Peter Rosenberg [12:50]: "I don't think anyone's accused Shadar Sanders of not being a good kid. And these combined conversations are tough."

This segment reveals the complexities of player-team dynamics and the strategic communications players may use to influence team decisions.

Mikel Bridges' Performance Slump

The hosts shift focus to the Brooklyn Nets' Mikel Bridges, addressing concerns about his recent performance dip. Caller James inquires about when Bridges is expected to overcome his slump.

James [14:41]: "When is it fair to expect more out of Mikel Bridges?"

Don expresses frustration with Bridges' current state, noting his poor body language and questioning his commitment.

Don LeGreca [15:53]: "This is too late in the season and... this is your role. This is why they traded five picks for you... It needs to start and it needs to start tonight."

Peter emphasizes the urgency of Bridges' situation, highlighting the importance of his role as the playoffs approach.

Peter Rosenberg [15:59]: "We need more from Bridges. We need Mitchell Robinson to come back."

Don and Peter discuss the expectations placed on Bridges and the potential impact of his continued slump on the team's performance.

Don LeGreca [16:22]: "This is not the time to pout if that's what's happening with him."

This conversation underscores the high stakes of player performance in critical moments of the season and the pressures athletes face to meet team expectations.

Strategic Drafting: Free Agent Quarterback vs. Rookie Picks

In a later segment, caller John from Bethlehem poses a strategic question about the Giants' drafting approach: whether to invest in a free-agent quarterback like Aaron Rodgers or prioritize rookie quarterbacks in the early rounds.

John [19:13]: "Would you rather just go for the free agent quarterback, go Travis Hunter and maybe a quarterback later in the draft or just go rookie quarterback like Cam Water Shadar Sanders straight up in the first round?"

Don analyzes the potential outcomes of each strategy, considering the availability of talent and the implications for team performance.

Don LeGreca [19:25]: "It's a great question. It's one that we're all curious to see what actually does go down... if you got to think at 3, it could be Abdul Carter, if, if a quarterback goes at two, you either have Abdul Carter or... Travis Hunter available."

Peter agrees, emphasizing the uncertainties of the draft and the importance of securing a quarterback who can contribute effectively.

Peter Rosenberg [20:14]: "Absolutely right."

The discussion highlights the delicate balance teams must strike between immediate performance boosts and long-term team building.

Conclusion and Upcoming Coverage

As the episode nears its end, the hosts tease upcoming coverage, including pregame discussions for the Knicks-Grizzlies game and Rangers broadcasts. They invite listeners to tune in for continued analysis and commentary on New York's vibrant sports scene.

Don LeGreca [21:03]: "We get that coverage coming up at 7:30."

Peter Rosenberg [21:12]: "Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts."

Notable Quotes:

• Lavelle [02:05]: "We got to separate what's Yankee tradition from what Steinbrenner tradition."

• Don LeGreca [05:37]: "The Yankee brand... always had prestige whether or not they were winning championships."

• Michael [08:37]: "If we just have a competent offense for next season with Rodgers, I don't see why we can't at least look competitive."

• Peter Rosenberg [10:16]: "You can't tell me all we weren't sure about this quarterback."

• Don LeGreca [15:53]: "This is too late in the season and... this is your role."

This episode of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg offers a comprehensive look into the current state and future prospects of key New York sports teams, providing listeners with expert analysis and passionate debate on the issues that matter most in the New York sports landscape.