Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 3: Soto v Judge Narrative

Release Date: May 1, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast, hosted by Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg, and Don McGregor, the trio delves deep into the ongoing narrative surrounding two of baseball's rising stars: Juan Soto of the New York Mets and Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees. The discussion centers on the perceptions, pressures, and media-driven stories that shape the performances and public opinions of these athletes.

1. The Emergence of the Soto vs. Judge Narrative

The episode kicks off with Alan Hahn setting the stage for a high-stakes discussion about the potential Game 6 between the Knicks and the Pistons, but the main focus soon shifts to baseball.

• Alan Hahn highlights the significance of the Soto vs. Judge narrative, emphasizing that both players are mega-stars in the same market. He states, “[...] when you have both fan bases engaged, you have two superstars, megastars” (06:10).

• Peter Rosenberg counters by questioning the validity of this narrative, arguing that it’s largely media and fan-created to stir interest. He remarks, “You’re creating a narrative that you automatically will win because Judge is the better player” (40:36).

2. Performance Under Pressure

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around Juan Soto's performance with the Mets, especially in comparison to Aaron Judge's achievements.

• Don McGregor observes Soto's early season performance, noting, “He always has” (04:43), referring to Soto's consistent ability to hit homers despite the team's loss.

• Peter Rosenberg challenges the notion that Soto is under undue pressure, citing Soto’s lack of complaint about contract-related stress: “I don't have any pressure at all” (02:49).

• The discussion further explores whether Soto's early successes or struggles are influenced by expectations. Peter Rosenberg asserts, “I'm not going to sit there and pump my fist. He had two home runs in a 4, 3 loss. I want to see this team win” (04:44).

3. Media Influence and Fan Perspectives

The hosts debate the role of media in shaping the narrative around Soto and Judge, and how it affects fan perceptions.

• Alan Hahn emphasizes the importance of stories in engaging fans, stating, “I root for the story” (06:10). He believes that comparing Soto and Judge adds an exciting dimension to the baseball season.

• Peter Rosenberg argues that much of the narrative is constructed by Yankee fans and the media to create a compelling story, even if it doesn’t align with reality. He mentions, “The narrative has to be, well, he can’t take the pressure” (04:18).

4. Team Performance and Historical Context

The conversation shifts to the Mets' performance and their standing in the league despite Soto's inconsistent start.

• Alan Hahn points out that the Mets are leading the league with one of their best starts in franchise history, irrespective of Soto's performance: “The Mets are still in first place” (09:44).

• Don McGregor and Peter Rosenberg discuss the implications of having two strong teams in the same market, comparing it to historical rivalries like Jeter and Piazza in New York.

5. Listener Engagement and Real-Time Reactions

The podcast incorporates listener calls, offering diverse perspectives on the Soto vs. Judge debate.

• Caller Emmett supports the idea that the narrative started in the offseason and continues into the season, emphasizing that Soto's signing was a significant boost for Mets fans (30:07).

• Juan Soto himself joins the conversation, defending his performance and highlighting the importance of winning over individual statistics: “The success of this person. Right. But as a Met fan... we have not won since '86” (34:31).

6. Broadcasting Changes and Future Implications

Alan Hahn introduces a segment on the impending changes to NBA playoff broadcasting, discussing how regional sports networks will no longer broadcast first-round games starting next year due to new TV deals.

• Alan Hahn explains, “starting next year, with the new TV deals, with Amazon and others kicking in, NBC regional sports networks will no longer be allowed to broadcast their own games in the first round” (42:54).

• Peter Rosenberg expresses concern over the impact this will have on local fan engagement and the authenticity of game coverage.

7. Concluding Remarks and Final Debates

As the episode wraps up, the hosts continue their spirited debate on the Soto vs. Judge narrative.

• Alan Hahn reiterates the significance of having two superstars in New York, suggesting that it revitalizes interest in baseball: “That's what I'm rooting for” (19:57).

• Peter Rosenberg remains skeptical, emphasizing that team success should take precedence over individual rivalries: “I care about trying to win games, and I want Soto to do well so my team can win” (18:26).

• Don McGregor aligns more with Peter, questioning the legitimacy of the constructed narrative: “Soto's career so far” (16:11).

Key Takeaways

• Media and Narrative Construction: The podcast underscores how media and fan narratives can shape perceptions of player performance, sometimes overshadowing team success.

• Individual vs. Team Performance: There's a clear tension between celebrating individual achievements and prioritizing team victories, reflecting broader debates in sports journalism.

• Impact of Star Players on Fan Engagement: The presence of two high-profile players in the same market is seen as both a boon for fan interest and a source of contentious debate among enthusiasts.

• Broadcasting Evolution: Changes in sports broadcasting rights are impacting how fans engage with playoff games, with implications for local and national viewership.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• “This is the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast.” — Alan Hahn (00:29)

• “I don't have any pressure at all.” — Juan Soto (02:46)

• “The Mets are still in first place.” — Peter Rosenberg (04:44)

• “That's what I'm rooting for.” — Alan Hahn (19:57)

• “I care about trying to win games, and I want Soto to do well so my team can win.” — Peter Rosenberg (18:26)

• “starting next year, with the new TV deals... regional sports networks will no longer be allowed to broadcast their own games in the first round.” — Alan Hahn (42:54)

Conclusion

The Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast provides a lively and insightful exploration of the Soto vs. Judge narrative, highlighting the complexities of media influence, fan expectations, and player performance in shaping the landscape of New York baseball. Whether you're a die-hard Mets or Yankees fan or simply a baseball enthusiast, this episode offers a nuanced perspective on one of the sport's most talked-about rivalries.

Timestamps

• Introduction: 00:29 – 02:27
• Soto vs. Judge Narrative: 02:44 – 05:44
• Performance Under Pressure: 05:44 – 10:47
• Media Influence: 10:47 – 16:27
• Team Performance: 16:27 – 20:34
• Listener Calls: 20:34 – 36:50
• Broadcasting Changes: 36:50 – 44:55
• Final Debates: 44:55 – 45:50
• Closing Remarks: 45:50 – 45:50

Note: Timestamps are indicative of major discussion points and may not cover every detail.