Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 3: Mets, Comedies, Stevie Wonder
Release Date: April 16, 2025
Hosts: Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg
Duration: Approximately 50 minutes
1. Shifting the Evening News to 6:00 PM
The episode kicks off with the exciting announcement of the Evening Nightly News (ENN) moving to its long-desired time slot at 6:00 PM. The hosts express unanimous enthusiasm about this change, emphasizing that it aligns with listener feedback and feels "so natural" for the show's dynamics.
Notable Quote:
Unknown Speaker [00:42]: "From this day forth, like it always should have been, the evening nightly news known as ENN will take place at 6:00."
Peter Rosenberg adds a touch of humor and emotion to the reveal.
Notable Quote:
Peter Rosenberg [01:54]: "A full six. I want to cry. That's how happy I am about it."
2. In-Depth Analysis of the Mets' Recent Performance
A significant portion of the discussion centers around the New York Mets' recent games. The hosts dissect a crucial match where the Mets faced a 4-3 loss in the 10th inning despite a strong rally in the eighth. Key players like Edwin Diaz, Pete Alonso, and Francisco Lindor are scrutinized for their performances.
Key Points:
- Edwin Diaz's Role: Debated the strategic use of Diaz in closing situations, especially with top-order hitters like Soto and Alonso coming up.
- Francisco Lindor's Struggles: Lindor's increased errors and diminished batting performance raise concerns about his form and leadership.
- Offensive Concerns: The team relies heavily on top hitters, causing vulnerability when production wanes from the middle and lower order.
Notable Quotes:
Alan Rosenberg [03:14]: "Want to hear the people because everybody complained about it. So you got what you wanted."
Peter Rosenberg [05:01]: "So it's one of those things like wouldn't you have rather lost 3, nothing then come back with the 3 runs in the 8th inning only to lose it in the 10th?"
3. Breakdown of the Yankees' Starting Lineup
Transitioning to another baseball discussion, the hosts examine the New York Yankees' starting lineup, highlighting player performances and strategic placements.
Key Points:
- Paul Goldschmidt and Cody Bellinger: Both players are commended for their consistent performances.
- Trent Grisham and Oswald Peraza: Discussed the urgency for these players to enhance their batting contributions.
- Pitching Staff: Clark Schmidt's return to the rotation is celebrated, underscoring his growth as a reliable starter.
Notable Quotes:
Alan Rosenberg [25:16]: "Aaron Boone did talk about getting Clark Schmidt back. Maybe he gives us a little nickname here."
Peter Rosenberg [26:42]: "He is important to our team and excited to get him back."
4. Personal Anecdotes: Navigating Food Poisoning
Adding a personal touch, the hosts share their experiences with severe food poisoning, highlighting the challenges of dealing with illness while maintaining professionalism on air.
Key Points:
- Alan Hahn's Experience: Recounts a debilitating bout with food poisoning in San Francisco, leading to missed flights and significant discomfort.
- Peter Rosenberg's Story: Details a similar incident involving Mike Greenberg's humorous yet harrowing experience with contaminated wings during a show.
Notable Quotes:
Alan Rosenberg [16:37]: "Spending the rest of the day in bed in L.A. was brutal. Just..."
Peter Rosenberg [18:16]: "I think that's why he's so dramatic about not ending for five years."
5. Debating the Best Comedy Movie Quotes
The conversation shifts to the realm of comedy, where the hosts engage in a spirited debate over the top comedy movie quotes of the past 25 years. They explore the impact of political correctness on modern comedies and lament the perceived decline in quintessential humor.
Key Points:
- Classic vs. Modern Comedies: Hosts reminisce about beloved lines from films like The Hangover, Wedding Crashers, and Superbad, questioning why newer comedies haven't achieved similar acclaim.
- Impact of Political Correctness: Discuss how evolving societal standards have influenced the creation and reception of comedic content.
Notable Quotes:
Peter Rosenberg [34:05]: "I always thought Bridesmaids was a bit overrated, but people do consider it a classic."
Alan Rosenberg [36:09]: "They had a few edgy moments, but it hits different in a serious drama than it is in a comic."
6. The Great Stevie Wonder Song Debate
One of the most engaging segments features a heated debate over the greatest Stevie Wonder song. The hosts passionately defend their choices, leading to playful tension and laughter.
Key Points:
- "Superstition" vs. "Love's in Need of Love": Peter champions "Love's in Need of Love" as the pinnacle of Stevie Wonder's artistry, while Alan supports "Superstition" based on its popularity and critical acclaim.
- Subjectivity in Music Appreciation: The discussion underscores how personal experiences and preferences shape one's perception of musical greatness.
Notable Quotes:
Peter Rosenberg [43:56]: "Love's in Need of Love is the first note on the greatest maybe American album ever made."
Alan Rosenberg [45:27]: "I like it, but it's not. I don't know if it's the best."
Peter Rosenberg [47:23]: "But you're telling me that I'm not qualified to make that. That's what you're saying."
7. On-Air Drama and Resolution
Amidst the debates, a moment of on-air drama occurs when one of the hosts experiences a severe cough attack, causing concern among the team. This leads to a humorous yet genuine interaction about handling unexpected situations during the show.
Notable Quotes:
Alan Rosenberg [24:05]: "I'm alive if anyone's worried, he's back. I recovered. It was a perfect confluence of some physical events that happened at one time, and it led to an uncontrollable cough..."
Peter Rosenberg [25:39]: "You went Kathleen Turner overdrive on us. That's what you did."
Conclusion
This episode of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg offers a dynamic blend of sports analysis, personal storytelling, and lively debates on pop culture. The hosts' chemistry and candid conversations provide listeners with both insightful discussions and entertaining banter, making it a compelling listen for fans of New York sports and beyond.
Listen to the full episode on the ESPN New York app, your smart speakers, or wherever you get your podcasts.