Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg - Hour 3: Mets Win & Judge v Jeter

Introduction In the April 23, 2025 episode of the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast, hosts Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve into an engaging discussion centered on the recent performance of the New York Mets and a heated debate comparing baseball legends Aaron Judge and Derek Jeter. The episode also touches on various other sports topics, including broadcasting changes in the NHL and NFL playoff strategies. Skipping over advertisements and non-content segments, the hosts and their callers provide insightful perspectives on these subjects, making the episode a must-listen for sports enthusiasts.

1. Mets' Stellar Performance

The episode kicks off with a celebration of the New York Mets' impressive start to the season. With a record of 18 wins and only 7 losses, the Mets are on a highly successful trajectory.

Don Hahn highlights the team's dominance, stating, "We're winning 72% of our games and have a five-game lead in first place in the division" (18:00).

Peter Rosenberg adds, "It’s a great time to be a Mets fan. Their performance has been phenomenal, and they're setting the tone early in the season."

Listeners are invited to share their excitement as the hosts discuss the factors contributing to the Mets' success, including standout performances and strategic gameplay.

2. Aaron Judge vs. Derek Jeter Debate

A significant portion of the episode revolves around the ongoing debate comparing current star Aaron Judge to the legendary Derek Jeter. This discussion is sparked by a call from Alex, who passionately argues in favor of Judge over Jeter.

Caller Alex asserts at 01:52, "I think Judge is a way better player than Jeter by a mile. You can name like a dozen great players surrounded by Jeter, but not as many around Judge."

Don Hahn responds thoughtfully, acknowledging Jeter's postseason prowess while maintaining his stance on Judge's overall talent. At 02:36, he states, "Derek Jeter was an amazing Hall of Fame player and very clutch, especially in the postseason. But Aaron Judge is a better ballplayer over the course of the season."

Peter Rosenberg supports Hahn's view, adding, "To me, it's not really close," reinforcing the idea that Judge's regular-season performance gives him an edge.

Caller Carl from West Babylon interjects, critiquing a fellow caller's perspective and emphasizing Judge's consistent excellence: "Aaron Judge is on the MVP conversation every single season. He's one of the best players in baseball."

Don Hahn further elaborates on the debate, pointing out that while Jeter excelled in high-pressure postseason scenarios, Judge's all-around abilities in regular play make him superior overall: "Guy's got a gun for an arm. He's an A-plus defender, hits home runs, gets on base. He does everything exceptionally well."

The hosts also discuss the emotional and subjective aspects of fan loyalty, particularly among Yankees supporters who value championship rings as a measure of greatness. Don Hahn critiques the overemphasis on postseason success, arguing that it can overshadow a player's regular-season achievements: "The Yankees fans are all about the chip. But I give Derek Jeter credit for being clutch. However, Aaron Judge's consistency is unparalleled."

3. Listener Contributions

Throughout the episode, multiple callers weigh in on the Judge vs. Jeter conversation, each bringing unique perspectives:

• Caller Alex emphasizes the importance of regular-season performance over postseason accolades, arguing that "just because Aaron Judge has broken some records, it doesn’t make him better overall than Derek Jeter."

• Caller Griffin briefly touches on unrelated topics but underscores the frustration some fans feel regarding player comparisons and team performance.

• Caller Corin from Manasquan shifts the conversation to discuss the Mets' atmosphere during a game, highlighting the team's supportive fan base and lack of boos for star player Juan Soto: "There were no boos for Soto at all. Met fans ripping Soto? No, 50,000 people serenading him."

4. Broadcasting Changes in the NHL

The hosts transition to discussing recent changes in NHL broadcasting, particularly how teams are cutting costs by reducing travel for radio broadcasts. Don Hahn expresses his discontent with the Islanders' decision to simulcast television for radio broadcasts, lamenting the loss of beloved broadcasters: "Jon Forsaland and Chuck Caton are Hall of Fame broadcasters who were replaced by simulcasts. It's just sad to see good people lose their jobs for cost savings."

Peter Rosenberg adds, "It's a shame because listening to the games on the radio is a major part of being an Islanders fan, especially for those with long commutes."

The conversation highlights the broader impact of these changes on fan experience and the importance of traditional broadcasting methods in maintaining a strong connection between teams and their supporters.

5. NFL Playoff Strategies and Fan Reactions

A segment of the episode delves into NFL playoff strategies, with a particular focus on a pivotal game between the Bears and Commanders. Peter Rosenberg narrates a dramatic moment from the game, expressing frustration over a questionable play decision: "They threw to Ertz over the middle. It hits the dirt. Nothing. Now there's two seconds left, and Caleb's doing something unexpected."

Don Hahn critiques the play, discussing its lack of strategic merit and the reliance on luck: "It's a great individual effort by him, but it was still luck that it just bounced off the scrum."

The hosts examine the implications of such plays on the game's outcome and the overall strategy teams employ during high-pressure moments.

6. Personal Anecdotes and Tech Troubles

The episode takes a personal turn as Peter Rosenberg shares a story about accidentally breaking his Apple laptop while traveling. This anecdote serves as a humorous interlude amidst the sports discussions, highlighting the hosts' ability to blend personal experiences with their professional insights.

Peter Rosenberg recounts, "I fell asleep with my laptop on the bed, and it broke. The repair cost $500 for a five-year-old device. I'm done with Apple repairs."

Don Hahn empathizes, sharing his own experience with his son Marco sliding off him and damaging his belongings, further adding a relatable human element to the podcast.

7. Concluding Remarks

As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the passionate discussions and varied topics covered. Don Hahn reiterates his disappointment with broadcasting changes in the NHL and expresses hope that teams will reconsider cost-cutting measures that impact fan engagement.

Peter Rosenberg emphasizes the importance of balancing team performance, broadcasting quality, and fan satisfaction to maintain a vibrant sports community.

The episode closes with the hosts thanking the listeners and encouraging them to subscribe and tune in for future discussions on New York sports and beyond.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Don Hahn: "Derek Jeter was an amazing Hall of Fame player and he was very clutch. Way better in the postseason than Judge has been so far." (02:44)

• Peter Rosenberg: "It's like a lame way to have a sports conversation. It just ultimately is a boy." (11:11)

• Caller Alex: "Just because Aaron Judge has broken some records, it doesn’t make him better overall than Derek Jeter." (35:45)

• Don Hahn: "Are you honestly going to tell me when you watched Aaron Judge play that he's not a better baseball player than Derek Jeter?" (34:17)

• Don Hahn: "We saved $500,000. Meanwhile, you're paying players like 12 million." (42:38)

Conclusion

This episode of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg masterfully combines expert analysis with passionate listener interactions, particularly highlighting the debate between Aaron Judge and Derek Jeter. The discussion not only showcases the hosts' deep understanding of baseball but also reflects broader themes in sports broadcasting and fan engagement. Whether you're a Mets fan celebrating the team's early success or a baseball enthusiast interested in player legacies, this episode offers a comprehensive and entertaining exploration of New York sports.