Hour 3: Soto's "Struggles"

Summary

Summary of "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" Podcast – Hour 3: Soto's "Struggles"

In the third episode of the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast, titled "Soto's 'Struggles'," released on April 30, 2025, hosts Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve into the performance challenges faced by Juan Soto, the star player of the New York Mets. The episode offers a comprehensive analysis of Soto's early-season struggles, the broader implications for the Mets, and the reactions from fans and the sports community.

1. Introduction to Juan Soto's Performance

The episode kicks off with a discussion about Juan Soto's underwhelming performance in his first 30 games with the Mets. Alan Hahn sets the stage by highlighting the pressure associated with Soto's high-profile contract:

Alan Hahn [02:13]: "Expectations have to match, right?"

Peter Rosenberg expands on the financial implications, suggesting that the Mets' expenditure on Soto might be setting a precedent for future salary caps in baseball:

Peter Rosenberg [01:26]: "I think they're going to go for it. I'm telling you there's going to be a cap in baseball after the 26 season."

2. Analyzing Soto's Struggles

The hosts dissect Soto's batting performance, noting his low batting average and the expectations tied to his contract:

Alan Hahn [02:22]: "If he's hitting like this, yeah."

Peter Rosenberg [02:32]: "He deserves to get ripped. Because now you've almost buried yourself where you might not be able to get out of it, but you're 21 and 9 and he's not hitting."

Don Hahn points out that despite Soto's struggles, he's contributing through quality at-bats:

Don Hahn [03:06]: "I think he hits two ball. He went 0 for 3 and hit two balls over 100 miles per hour."

3. Team Dynamics and Support

The conversation shifts to how Soto's performance affects the overall team dynamics. Alan emphasizes the importance of team success over individual statistics:

Alan Hahn [05:04]: "People don't care about anything other than winning, honestly."

Peter Rosenberg counters that Soto's presence is vital for the team's offensive strategy:

Peter Rosenberg [05:03]: "He’s going to be a better player than Grisham, but again, better numbers, 21 and 9."

Don Hahn adds that other core players like Carlos Lindor and Alonzo are performing exceptionally, which helps balance Soto's performance:

Don Hahn [13:04]: "Lindor has become a Met. He wasn't maybe until last year. Really became a Met, right?"

4. Fan Reactions and Criticism

The hosts address the mixed reactions from fans regarding Soto's performance. Alan shares insights from conversations with star athletes facing similar criticisms:

Alan Hahn [05:28]: "People don't care about anything other than winning, honestly."

Peter Rosenberg suggests that some of the negative feedback might be influenced by Yankee fans masquerading as Mets fans to disparage Soto:

Peter Rosenberg [15:24]: "You think the fans are complaining because there might be a cap until."

5. Callers Share Their Perspectives

Throughout the episode, several callers provide their viewpoints on Soto's performance and the team's prospects:

• Sam from Brooklyn [16:09]: Highlights the importance of giving Soto time to adjust, drawing parallels with Carlos Beltran's experience.

• Corinne [22:37]: Asserts that the majority of Mets fans are supportive of Soto and believe he'll ramp up his performance.

Corinne [22:37]: "All the Mets fans I know. No one's upset. Everyone knows he's going to start getting."

• Lorenzo [34:06]: Emphasizes Soto's role in protecting other key players like Lindor and Alonzo.

Lorenzo [34:06]: "Juan Soto's body language. He's providing plenty right now because we don't know if Alonzo and Lindor be hitting the way they're hitting without Soto."

6. Comparing to Past Player Debuts

The hosts draw comparisons between Soto's current struggles and past players who had slow starts but eventually became integral to their teams. Don Hahn references how performances in the early season shouldn't overshadow a player's long-term contributions:

Don Hahn [35:04]: "Being good in April and May is not worth huge celebration for Juan Soto."

7. Conclusion and Future Outlook

As the episode wraps up, the hosts express optimism about the Mets' season, despite Soto's initial challenges. They stress the importance of team cohesion and the potential for Soto to overcome his slump as the season progresses:

Alan Hahn [14:20]: "Just win and all this stuff goes away."

Peter Rosenberg [35:04]: "He's probably, yeah, a little frustrated and down. That doesn't mean he's not supporting his teammates."

Don Hahn reinforces the idea that early-season performance metrics shouldn't dictate the overall evaluation of a player's contribution:

Don Hahn [35:04]: "Being good in April and May is not worth huge celebration for Juan Soto. He's a guy who won in Washington. He was great in San Diego, went to the World Series in New York and now is on the Mets."

Key Takeaways

• Soto's Performance: Juan Soto is facing a challenging start with a 21 for 9 batting average in his first 30 games, sparking debate among fans and analysts.

• Team Dynamics: Despite Soto's struggles, other key players are performing well, helping to maintain the Mets' competitive edge.

• Fan Reactions: While a vocal minority criticizes Soto, the majority of Mets fans remain supportive, believing in his long-term value to the team.

• Future Expectations: The hosts remain hopeful that Soto will overcome his early-season slump and significantly contribute to the Mets' success as the season progresses.

This episode provides an in-depth look at the complexities surrounding a star player's performance and its ripple effects on team dynamics and fan sentiment. Through insightful analysis and diverse perspectives, "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" offers a nuanced understanding of Juan Soto's role within the New York Mets.

Transcript

[Don Hahn]

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[Peter Rosenberg]

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[Don Hahn]

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[Alan]

This is the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That sounds like heaven to me.

[Don Hahn]

Listen live weekday afternoon starting at 3.

[Alan]

On 8 80, ESPN, the ESPN New York app and your smart speakers.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Game time is brought to you by Tullamore Do Irish Whiskey because when it's game time, it's Tully time. Well, the Mets continue their series with the Diamondbacks. Coverage starts immediately following us at 6:30 on 880.

[Alan]

He's better at it, I will admit.

[Peter Rosenberg]

The Yankees close out their series with the O's at 6:35 telemore due the original triple distilled, triple blend in and triple cast matured Irish Whiskey. Be sure to grab a Telemore do or try the new Tullamore Dew honey during tonight's action. Glasses up to enjoying Tullamore Dew responsibly, you honey. I understand that I'm a different than a lot of other people. I get that. We keep score with the money. You're right Alan. With the money comes a ton of pressure.

[Alan]

Expectation has to match, right?

[Peter Rosenberg]

But first and foremost comes the winning. And if the team is winning, there shouldn't be any complaining. And especially in base in baseball when you have no cap. Right now I agree with you. I think they're going to go for it. I'm telling you there's going to be a cap in baseball after the 26 season. And the reason I know that is because the Yankees are complaining about how much money the Dodgers are spending. So of Hal Steinbrenner is going to be an ally to the small market teams. That is going to be a nice weapon for the small market teams to have when they go to battle to get a salary cap. But until further notice, there's no cap in baseball. The Mets have a billionaire owner. The Yankees have a ton of money as well. So money should not be an issue for either of these teams. The teams are winning. It's when you're not winning and you're not coming through and the team loses then I agree.

[Alan]

Then the Booze by now. 30 games in. If he's. If this is his production, reverse the Mets record. He's getting eviscerated.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Rightly so. But right now.

[Alan]

Rightly so. 30 games in, but.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But if you want to rip them in. Yeah. Because if their record is 9 and 21 and he's hitting like this.

[Alan]

Yeah.

[Don Hahn]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

He deserves to get ripped. Because now you've almost buried yourself where you might not be able to get out of it, but you're 21 and 9 and he's not hit and he has no. Eventually he's going to. But shouldn't that be what's first and foremost on your mind? That the team is winning and you're excited and that can actually be spun as a positive because you know he's going to hit, right? And once he does hit, that's what.

[Alan]

You got to think is like, he's not even hitting yet. When he hits, watch this offense really take off. Carlos Mendoza, I guess this pregame today, talking about soda and I guess his struggles.

[Don Hahn]

Go ahead. Yes, there's a perfect example. I think he hits two ball. He went 0 for 3 and hit two ball over 100 miles per hour. You know, one of them the other way. Get a walk. So he's all foot three. We scored.

[Alan]

You know, we score eighth.

[Don Hahn]

But he's giving quality at bats. I think we went through a stretch.

[Alan]

Where he was hitting a lot of.

[Don Hahn]

Balls on the ground, even though 108. But he was crumb balls.

[Alan]

And I see him now some more line drive. And then we saw it against the Nationals yesterday.

[Don Hahn]

It was a couple of balls, I think one center, one and left against a lefty.

[Alan]

Those are some good signs. Who does this sound like? Who does that sound like?

[Peter Rosenberg]

Sounds like Boone.

[Alan]

That's right out of Aaron Boone's playbook.

[Don Hahn]

Come on, buddy.

[Alan]

You know, he's. He's really hitting the ball hard.

[Don Hahn]

He was his bench coach. He knows the vibe.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But it is kind of interesting. And I'm not going to get on the media because in baseball, there's always a ton of stories, ton of articles, but like, you just won a game, 8:3. And the conversation is that, you know, Soto's not hitting. He's going to hit. He's making it a job. He's going to hit. You know, I. Obviously Yankee fans are going to, you know, like Rob Lowe. Not the Rob Lowe, because he spells it with an A. Is like. Is this what you mean? Like laughing about comparing Grisham to Soto and how much better Grisham's been. Listen, I will bet that at the end of the season, Soto's going to be a better player than Grisham, but again, better numbers, 21 and 9. That's all I care about is my record. So all I'm saying is, is that at some point you're going to have to let it go. Now, do I think the Mets are going to play to a 70, a 720 win percentage if Soto doesn't hit all year? Probably not. And it might be a problem, but it's not a problem. Now we're, we're preemptively now creating problems. Though. You think the odds are that eventually he's going to hit? Maybe he won't hit as well as he hit last year, but you take a look at the guy's career, he's going to hit and believe me, 30 games out of 162. I'm sure you could take any 30 games of his career and look at bad numbers, but because it's the first 30 of his MET tenure, it looks bad.

[Alan]

That's what it's about.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But come on, can we have this conversation in August if he's still hitting.250 with a handful of home runs and now the Mets are.500 and let a, let a lead in the division slip and they fall to third, now they're a wild card team or out of it? Well, then I think you have the conversation. Not now, so I'll share.

[Alan]

I'm not going to say who with, but I had this conversation earlier in my career with a guy who was a high level star athlete in New York.

[Don Hahn]

Thank you.

[Alan]

Who had gone through. Well, I don't want to name names, but, but he was going through the same thing he was going through where it wasn't really putting up. It wasn't producing great, but wasn't playing bad and he was getting the criticism. And you know, some people, like even fans were starting to grumble and this is a well liked guy. And I remember he just said to me, he's like, like, like what do they want? You know, like what, like what do they want? Like you can't be perfect all the time. And I said, people don't care about anything other than winning, honestly. So when you're not winning, we have to nitpick everything else. And you and your status and your contract are always going to be at the top of the list of reasons why if the team is not winning and when the team is winning, more than likely you won't get the credit you deserve. But in the end. If you just win, if your team wins and you're one of the main faces on that team, you'll always be associated with winning. That's all that matters. Not saying nice things in the media, not trying to please everybody, not trying to do everything so everybody thinks you're great. Not having commercials.

[Peter Rosenberg]

No.

[Alan]

None of it matters, honestly. You could be the Pope, but if your team loses, you're getting booed, right? Like, that's just the way it is.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But.

[Alan]

So just win and all this stuff goes away.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But you just said that they're winning. But apparently in some circles, it's still.

[Alan]

Not going away because he's not yet a Met. He's not yet a Met. Don Alonzo's a Met.

[Peter Rosenberg]

All right?

[Alan]

Alonzo's a Met. And he's. Come on. He had a great start. Lindor has become a Met. He wasn't maybe until last year. Really became a Met, right?

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah.

[Alan]

I don't think Soto's become a Met yet.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That's all.

[Alan]

And once he does, this all goes away.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Because I'm older and listen, I was even. Even back when I was a kid, like, I loved Lawrence Taylor. There were players that I loved, love Nolan Ryan, again.

[Alan]

Drafted by your team. Drafted by your team.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But there's certain players I always loved. But at the end of the day, nothing superseded my love of the team as much as I love Lawrence Taylor. I would have traded him in a second if it meant my team was going to get better and win a Super bowl. Like. Like Marcus Smart hurt that Peter that let him go because, you know, he was one of his favorite players. But, you know, Celtics won a championship. You know what?

[Alan]

You know, it's interesting you say that Patrick Ewing, 95, Shaq, was in the league, really taking over. Shaq was going to be a free agent.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Right.

[Alan]

And there was just all this talk about. And I can't remember who it was, that report like that did. Like I said, it might have been Peter Vesey. How the Knicks should trade Patrick ewing for Shaquille O'Neal before he becomes a free agent and bring in Shaq as you know, who's a superstar, you need him in a big market and go from there. And me, as a fan, didn't want.

[Don Hahn]

Oh, no, no, you hate the idea of it.

[Alan]

Because I'd rather win with the guy that.

[Don Hahn]

You'd rather not win with the guy. That's the sad part.

[Alan]

No, I think it was more like, I wouldn't feel the same if it was with a guy that.

[Don Hahn]

And little did you know, you'd be wrong. If they had gotten Shaq, they probably would have won a chance.

[Alan]

Very, very wrong. And Patrick's one of my favorite players, one of my favorite people. I loved him. And at that time, when friends of mine and we'd kick it around like we always do, we pretend we're doing sports talk and we're just sitting around and it's just, I would say, I don't want it. I don't want it. Don't do it. I'd rather, I want to win with Patrick. If we're going to win, it's got to be with him. It won't feel the same.

[Don Hahn]

I bet if you were to do a survey.

[Alan]

And now it's. It was certainly.

[Don Hahn]

There are very few players in this league that Knicks fans would support losing Brunson for now. I'm not saying he'd even be on the table.

[Alan]

No.

[Don Hahn]

But if he were right, who out there would a Knicks fan go, you know what? Fine. Anthony Edwards. Because I mean that, that. The truth is that's a no brainer. Maybe not a no brainer decision, but it's probably.

[Alan]

The guy's electric. Yeah.

[Don Hahn]

And he's younger. He's five years younger. He's electric. He's the man. But there aren't a lot of people.

[Alan]

No.

[Don Hahn]

Like you're talking about. They'd have to be literally a top five player in the NBA.

[Alan]

That's why when Don. When you say, like, I just care about my team. I love my team. And if that means trading Lawrence, I kind of disagree with you. I love my team, but I love the characters on the team, especially the ones that are homegrown. The ones that are like, I want to win with you, though. I want you to be here when they win.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But I make the point that when the Mets signed Juan Soto to a contract, what did I celebrate? The fact that I'm going to see this generational talent every day and that I'll be entertained every time I turn on Sny or something.

[Alan]

No, you celebrated that you beat the Yankees.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I celebrated. I celebrate. I can't speak for everybody because it's going to now help my team win a championship. Anytime you add one of the best players in a sport, it's going to help the chance for you. Think about it.

[Alan]

He got the Yankees to the World Series in one year.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That's my end game. My end game is not to get a player that's better than Aaron Judge. My end game is not to finish with a better record than the Yankees. My End game is not to assemble a team that entertains me every night with home runs and RBIs and spectacular plays. My end game is for my team to win. If I can win without him doing it, then what am I going to be upset about?

[Alan]

He's still winning. Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

How about you say to me, that's all that it's about, right? You're rooting for the laundry. And even with the Mets because of all the different uniform combinations, it's not even that players come and go. But the fact is, since my father plopped me in front of a Met game back in like the mid-70s, I've rooted for this team and watched them every night, hoping that one day they'll win a championship. I was one when they won the first one. I was 18 when they won the second one. That's my motivation, man. Sure, I want to be entertained. Sure, I love the fact that they have a great team as far as stats are concerned or how many All Stars go. But at the end of the day, I want this team to win a trophy.

[Alan]

Has he been that bad?

[Peter Rosenberg]

Maybe he hasn't.

[Alan]

Has he been God awful?

[Peter Rosenberg]

He's not been good or he's just.

[Alan]

Been, well, I mean, mediocre.

[Peter Rosenberg]

He's batting 257 and then he loses.

[Alan]

One in the sun and everybody's freaking out.

[Peter Rosenberg]

You know, he's got 12 RBIs. I mean, he hasn't embarrassed himself, but he has been Juan Soto. And you're right, he's not worth the money that they're paying him right now. It's a 15 year contract, for God's sakes. With 30 games into a 15 year contract, there are going to be bad seasons, there are going to be bad moments. But at the end of the day, isn't it about just winning? Isn't that all everybody screams about? Isn't that why Aaron Judge, the audacity that I have to say that Derek Jeter is not as good as Aaron Judge? What are you talking about, Judges? A win. Like we kill Yankee fans for. For chasing the chip. But isn't that kind of what it's about? It's like the, the opposite, right? Where we want Yankee fans to appreciate what's going on, but they're so focused on the championship. But I can't kill them because I get, I get. I understand.

[Alan]

It's funny that you say that. So Yankee fans are doing the opposite. Guys having a phenomenal season again. He's been an MVP twice, right? He's following up a second MVP season With another MVP season. He's the best player in the sport right now. Best hitter in baseball. Best hitter of his generation. All the numbers tell you that. And yet there are still fans that will not let go of Derek Jeter and let you say. How dare you say Derek Jeter's better than him. Derek Jeter won championships. What has this guy done? Like, how quick they are. That's the reverse of what Mets fans are doing. Yeah, Mets fans are winning and winning more than they've won in years. And it's like, it's like, yeah, but why'd we spend all this money on this guy? It's just, it's an odd conversation, but it's where fans are.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But, but, but it does come back to the point of just appreciating the fact that. All right, Soto struggling. But you know what? Mets are winning. The scoring runs, they're pitching out of their minds. You know, they won more games than any Met team in the history of the franchise in the month of April.

[Don Hahn]

And by the way, you know, the beauty is. You know what the beauty is? Lindor is putting. Is playing like an mvp.

[Alan]

Yep.

[Don Hahn]

And Soto hasn't even started playing yet.

[Alan]

And Alonzo's been phenomenal.

[Don Hahn]

And Alonzo's been great.

[Alan]

Alonzo's climbing all the different record books in the, in franchise history.

[Don Hahn]

Of the three guys that are the core of this team's offense, there's one sure thing and two guys who aren't always a sure thing. Lindor always comes around, but he starts slow. At least as a Met, he has.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah.

[Don Hahn]

And Pete last year had a bad year. Basically without that moment against Milwaukee, he has a very forgetful season. A non memorable season.

[Alan]

A non memorable 30 home run season.

[Don Hahn]

I know, right? But he wasn't great.

[Alan]

No.

[Don Hahn]

Even though he did get his 30, he wasn't great. Pete and Lindor have been astounding. So as Soto is going to get there, this is actually perfect for them.

[Peter Rosenberg]

You know, what's interesting about Alonzo is that it was a forgettable regular season for him.

[Don Hahn]

Right. But then the most memorable numbers is.

[Peter Rosenberg]

The home run against Williams and the fact that they came within two games to go into the World Series. They were able to do all those things without Pete having a big year.

[Alan]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

So let's say the Mets win the World Series and Soto has a very pedestrian season. You're going to spend time killing Soto or are you going to be like, dude, man, we won for the first time in forever.

[Alan]

I think you have to acknowledge that this whole thing and Anything you see when it comes to criticism and debate and discourse about Soto all has to do with only one thing. The money. That's it. People see the money, they'll never let it go. It is something that everybody gets fixated on.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But how does it affect you? That's what I would ask people. Okay, because I understood it's relative to regular life. But I understand in cap sports because that money does matter because now you're locked in like you say, you bring in Giannis and that contract, there's not going to be a lot of other things you're going to be able to do football too. If I pay all that money to my quarterback, I'm going to have to let some guys on the defense go to be able to pay that deal. Same in hockey. Right. But in baseball, that's small market problem. That was a willpond problem when they were. But this shouldn't be a problem with.

[Alan]

With Cohen unless there's a cap that's coming in that the, the, that's always been in the conversation.

[Peter Rosenberg]

You think the fans are complaining because there might be a cap until.

[Alan]

No, I'm just trying to find other reasons why anybody would have that, that frustration about it. I just think it's just the immediacy.

[Peter Rosenberg]

The other reason is, well, Don, look how much I'm paying for tickets. I think the Met charging the same amount even if Soto didn't sign him.

[Alan]

Did tickets go up exponentially after contracting?

[Peter Rosenberg]

I don't know that. I'm sure they did, but it's not.

[Alan]

Like didn't they go on sale before they even signed him though they had.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Known they had to have gone. His contract's not coming season which almost went to the World Series. So I'm sure they're going to get jacked up anyway. But the fact is is that the ship sailed on expensive tickets and $13 beers and $12 hot dogs. Right? So the fact that Soto signed here probably didn't affect the bot that kind of bottom line. So what exactly are you complaining about other than the fact that you just enjoy complaining?

[Alan]

Well, let's hear, let's, let's find out from of course, the voice of the fans.

[Peter Rosenberg]

1-800-919-3776 number to call the list was also something that was a, a conversation starter as well. Sam in Brooklyn. You're on ESPN New York.

[Don Hahn]

Hey, Sam.

[Sam]

What's up, boys? Big day today. By the way, it's my son's 21st birthday. Don, you did a cameo for him when he was 17. So yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That was fast.

[Alan]

So you're gonna have your first. His first drink with you, right?

[Sam]

I. Yeah, right. He's in school, buddy.

[Alan]

Air quotes around that one, Sam, you know.

[Sam]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. One more thing before I go on the list. Tomorrow. I'm actually going to the Met game with my father, who turns 88.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Wow.

[Alan]

Cool.

[Sam]

Three brothers, and it's the first time all five of us will be at a game together. So I'm pretty. Pretty psyched about that. So I was. I was thinking of the list, right? So that catch that VAR show made yesterday was. Was, like, ridiculous. And so I was thinking, like, what would be crazy catches. Five crazy catches in our lifetime. I don't want to go back to, like, Willie Mays, so.

[Don Hahn]

Although.

[Sam]

You know what I mean? But, like. Like to, you know. You know, 70 ever.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah.

[Alan]

The Jeter one.

[Peter Rosenberg]

The Jeter play, I thought comes out bloody. I thought it was a little overrated.

[Don Hahn]

Oh, just because of where it was, like, the. The kind of play it was.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Well, again, it was in 04. Every Yankee fan should flush anything that happened at 04.

[Don Hahn]

Right.

[Alan]

But it's still great.

[Don Hahn]

That doesn't change the.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I mean, I wouldn't put it up there. I mean, obviously, even though I completely urinate on it. The Andy Chavez catch, Another one of.

[Alan]

Those that you want to forget what happened at the end. But that was an unbelievable catch catch.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That was. Yeah. Really crazy.

[Alan]

Boy, his agent leading into that catch, too, didn't he? Or that one cat. Boy, they leaned into that.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Rich in Rockwell center comes up with a good one for the list. You're on ESPN New York. What's up, Rich? Hi, Rich.

[Alan]

What's up?

[Sam]

Sorry, M. I think you missed the greatest brawl of all time in New York history. It's the Islanders Rangers Santa Bowl. I understand it didn't make it your top five, but at least an honorable mention.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah, probably.

[Alan]

It was fan related.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It was fan related. I was right in with the Millbury because that was more of the fan thing. But the one that Rich is talking about is the fans all came out to the Nassau Coliseum wearing Santa outfits, and then a couple of guys pulled off their jerseys and their Santa.

[Alan]

As the story goes, it was Rangers. It was Right. And it wasn't even Island Ranger game. I'm not. If I'm not mistaken. And it was. The whole idea was to have fans come out and we'll. We'll do a big Santa march on the ice in between periods.

[Peter Rosenberg]

What a great idea.

[Sam]

Everyone who wore a Santa outfit to the game.

[Alan]

You got to go march on the ice. It was just a promotion. And in the middle of it, three guys decided they were going to pull off this, this, this prank. And they all of a sudden turn around, they open their Santa robes to show Ranger jerseys, and they thought all everybody would do is just boo them. But instead all the Islander fans on the ice started beating the crap out of them and it was hysterical.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And then they never did that again. Yeah, it's amazing.

[Alan]

They would, they wouldn't go back to that promotion.

[Peter Rosenberg]

For some reason, it just, it didn't work out.

[Don Hahn]

Race the rudders.

[Alan]

Race the sails.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Race the sails.

[Don Hahn]

Captain, an unidentified ship is approaching.

[Alan]

Over. Roger, wait. Is that an enterprise sales solution?

[Don Hahn]

Reach sales professionals, not professional sailors.

[Alan]

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[Peter Rosenberg]

Right people by industry, job title, and more. We'll even give you a $100 credit on your next campaign.

[Don Hahn]

Get started today at LinkedIn.com results. Terms and conditions apply.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That's your money, Finn. It's time for a McDonald's run. Cause with new McValue at McDonald's, you get more than you expect. Like buy a six piece McNuggets and add a McChicken for just a dollar.

[Alan]

You.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Your money says let's go get more than you expect. With new MC value, prices and participation may vary. Valid for item of equal or lesser value.

[Don Hahn]

There are people out there all across the country pushing boundaries to grow the game of golf. Like champion speed golfer Lauren Kupp, who plays faster than anyone else. And Will Lowry, whose work in the golf community inspires more kids to get into the game. As a champion partner of the Masters, bank of America supports everyone determined to find out what's possible in golf and in life. What would you like the power to do? Bank of America bank of America. NA member FDIC. Copyright 2025 bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

[Alan]

Thanks for listening to the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast.

[Don Hahn]

I didn't listen to anything you just said.

[Alan]

Catch the show on demand whenever you want. Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts.

[Don Hahn]

Also better.

[Peter Rosenberg]

This is not better than superstitions.

[Don Hahn]

Oh, yeah, it is.

[Peter Rosenberg]

No, it's not.

[Don Hahn]

Living for the city is better than super.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It's a good song. I enjoy it. I think superstition is a better.

[Alan]

I might lean. I might lean with Peter here.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That's fine.

[Don Hahn]

It's all like. Once you hear it, it's.

[Alan]

But can we.

[Peter Rosenberg]

My issue with Peter was just how.

[Alan]

That's it. Just one. What is it?

[Peter Rosenberg]

My issue with that conversation.

[Alan]

Not plural.

[Peter Rosenberg]

You know, because he jumped me for saying I think superstition.

[Don Hahn]

It wasn't. It wasn't initially a jump. No, it was like I just said, no. I don't think it's the best.

[Peter Rosenberg]

No. Well, that's it.

[Don Hahn]

I got more jumped for my response than I jumped for my.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Because I was defensive. Because I think that people would have that in the top five.

[Don Hahn]

They would.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It sound like I was.

[Don Hahn]

They would.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I just called to say I love you was number one.

[Alan]

No.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And then I deserve to be jumped.

[Don Hahn]

No, that's not. That's not.

[Peter Rosenberg]

City is a very good song. They're all very good. He's outstanding.

[Alan]

Ribbon in the sky, number one.

[Peter Rosenberg]

What's the last time he did anything?

[Don Hahn]

What do you mean? New? Well, just to perform all the time.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah, I just, I don't.

[Don Hahn]

He's just on tour. Well, he just got off tour.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I saw. You should know about that more.

[Don Hahn]

He's. I saw him a few years ago, but he did MSG this year.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I think I get. That's somebody I got to see live.

[Don Hahn]

You've never seen him?

[Peter Rosenberg]

No.

[Don Hahn]

Well, it's a bad job by you.

[Peter Rosenberg]

You know What? You're not wrong. 1-800-919-3776 we're talking about, you know, the, the Met. Some of the Met. I think for the most part he's been received well at Citi Field. I don't think he's been booed. Maybe it's a social media thing. Maybe it's that. That very vocal minority that are complaining about Juan Soto, despite the fact the Mets are off to historically good start. Let's go to Corinne and Manasquan. You're on espn, New York. Hi, Corrine.

[Corinne]

Hey, guys. So let me just ask, the three of you are in studio right now, right?

[Peter Rosenberg]

Oh, sure.

[Corinne]

All right. So can you guys, like check Alan's pulse checks, check his oxygen? Because the take that he had to end the 4 o'clock hour is just crazy. I mean, first of all, coming from a Yankee fan who the regular season doesn't matter. Like, you know, amongst what all the Yankee fans say. Do you really think that the Met fans are upset that Soto's not doing anything right now? He could have only one hit throughout this whole year and we're 21 9. I wouldn't care. With 15 years of him, he's going to heat up at some point. It's just crazy to think that the Mets. That the large majority of Met fans are upset at him. All the Met fans I know. No one's upset. Everyone knows he's going to start getting.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I agree with you. There are. There are people. Because I started it, Corinne, that there are people that seem to be upset about Juan Soto. I don't even give it a thought. I'm 21 and 9, you know, so I know this guy is going to hit and then he's going to carry this team. So right now, I think it's a. It's a good thing. I'm not worried. I wanted to bring him here because I wanted to help him win. If they can find a way to win without him, then what does it bother me?

[Alan]

Yeah. By the way. Hi, Corinne.

[Corinne]

And imagine when he does start hurting.

[Sam]

Yeah.

[Alan]

I. What I'm doing there in that conversation is pushing back on Don about what he's saying. Right. And I'm trying to get. I'm trying to give him. This is what some. What did you call them? The. You. You always have your funny ways of describing people that aren't very smart.

[Peter Rosenberg]

A virgin virgin. And the fact that you're miserable makes a perfect storm of a yo, yo.

[Alan]

Yeah, yo, yo. And all that stuff. Right. So all I was trying to do is probably is try to be one of those people and push back with this is probably what they're thinking, is that it's always about the money. The money does upset people. And in the minute you don't see numbers, there are people that just. It's like, there's the scoffers in the world. They scoff at everything, no matter what's happening. I feel like it's a little more.

[Corinne]

Of like a Yankee fan take to, like, be like, oh, look, so does not produce and everything. Like, I think the Met fans.

[Alan]

I wasn't trying to. I honestly wasn't trying to. No, I wasn't trying.

[Corinne]

You know what?

[Alan]

I honestly wasn't trying to do that. I was honestly trying to engage Don, who seemed really frustrated with his fellow Met fan and trying to say to.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Him, this is what they're thinking. Certain segment of the Met population, I do believe that the majority, just like the majority of Yankee fans, you know, appreciate judge. But there's that vocal minority of people that call, they tweet, complain about things that necessarily represent.

[Alan]

Yeah, wait till October when he disappears.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Even if it's one guy. But Corinne brought. Hit on something that I do think does exist is that sometimes I just wonder, are these Yankee fans disguised as Met fans trying to create trouble? Honestly? Because I will say one thing definitively. So go ahead. I still think there are a lot of Yankee fans that are still in a way about Soto signing with the Mets.

[Alan]

I think you're right.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And I think they love to create a narrative of boy, this guy's not hitting, like we care.

[Alan]

So these are burner accounts of actual Yankee fans who are just trying to create like negativity that never happens on social media.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That's not even a listen.

[Alan]

We never see stuff like that.

[Peter Rosenberg]

There's no question about it.

[Alan]

It is true.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Mohammed on Long island, you're on ESPN New York. What's up, buddy?

[Sam]

How you doing, man? Thanks for taking my call, guys. I just wanted to tell the Mets fans, relax some. You know, they treated. I don't know if I missed this point or not because I was at, I was working and the big boss was here. He don't like AirPods. But anyway, they treated Lyndor the same way in his beginning of his tenure here in New York, so. And he came around and now like you just, guys just said he's one of the most beloved Mets on the team. So just, just give Soto some time. He's one of the best hitters in the game. He'll be fine. But I just wanted to point out the fact that Mets fans treated Lynn Door the same exact way. I think it's just a New York thing. Thanks for taking my call.

[Alan]

Yeah, I think he's right.

[Peter Rosenberg]

You're right. But you know, the Mets weren't winning when Lindor was struggling and they gave him a 10 year contract and so people were upset about that.

[Alan]

But he was part of the thumbs down with that didn't help what's his face, right? Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And Soto's been very good. I mean, I know those comments about not getting the, the judge protection with the Mets that he got with the Yankees and all that, but for the most part he hasn't had that thumbs down, give a finger to the crowd moment. He's been good. He'll be fine.

[Alan]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Tim, Staten island, you're on ESPN New York. What's up, Tim? How are you guys doing?

[Sam]

Listen, I want to say I went to the game last night and I.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Had a great time.

[Sam]

Obviously. I wish I had a better, we.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Had a better outcome.

[Sam]

But I just wanted to ask you guys, you know, with all these guys that kind of come into the Garden, you know, this year it's Cunningham, which, you know, he's a great player obviously, but you know, in the past, Trey Young and guys like Tyrese Halliburton, guys just kind of come in. They're all good players, but it seems like The Garden is sort of a detriment to the Knicks because they all sort of, like, raise their game and, you know, just sort of, like, come out and, you know, raise their game.

[Peter Rosenberg]

A lot higher than, like, what.

[Sam]

What the Knicks would do.

[Peter Rosenberg]

You know what I mean?

[Sam]

Like.

[Alan]

Like anywhere else at home. If you mean, if the game is played somewhere else, they wouldn't have the same added incentive. Right. Because of the stage. That's. That's.

[Sam]

They come out and they, like, they have. They have nothing to lose.

[Peter Rosenberg]

They're like, oh, we're playing in New York. Everybody's booing us.

[Alan]

Well, it's not that I'm going to.

[Sam]

Do my thing, you know.

[Alan]

Yeah, no, it's. It's. It's something, Tim, that is not new. That has been going on for years. It is something that every generation of Nick player has always talked about and then players.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Larry Johnson brought it up.

[Alan]

Absolutely right. That just was something different. When you, like Larry said. Larry, LJ Said when he was with the Hornets, he would come to the Garden and show out. Because it was the Garden.

[Don Hahn]

Yep, every time.

[Alan]

And all the stars say that. All of them. That's why you see them. That's why a lot of times you'll see on west coast teams, they come out for an east coast road trip and they'll sit out the game before playing at the Garden. They'll have an injury, but for some, somehow, miraculously, they're healthy enough to play in the game at the Garden because they're one chance to play here and they want to show out and they all get up to play on that stage. You know what happens, guys? We get this outside of New York, we get this thing from a lot of people, and especially in the media about how you guys in this mecca of basketball or the cathedral of baseball, Yankee Stadium, like, you guys make so much of of those places. Like there's history there or whatever. Like it matters more. Like it's a better stadium or a better arena than this place or that place. And that's not true. You just blow it up. And I say that it is true. Just ask the players. Ask them the extra juice they get when they go play at the Garden. It's a real thing. And when you play for the Knicks, it's a real thing that you always have to deal with. You can't have an off night because those players come in and they are not going to have an offense.

[Don Hahn]

I think it's almost like, as much as we say it is an underrated idea, there's really no comp for it. Where the building you play in, you naturally get used to.

[Alan]

It feels like a neutral site.

[Don Hahn]

And for that not even. It's like worse. Yes, you have the home court advantage, but from an energy standpoint, you get used to the feeling of the building. It's where you play every night. Meanwhile, every team that comes in is sitting there like, you know, unable to sleep the night before because they're so ready to get there and show New.

[Peter Rosenberg]

York how they do it.

[Don Hahn]

That's a, that's a tough spot.

[Alan]

No, there's why you got to find the best player you can. The best players you can so you can match whatever's coming your way.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Let's go to Ruben in New Haven. You're on espn New York.

[Sam]

Don, real quick, buddy. Good afternoon, gentlemen. First, I'm going to push back a little bit on the, on the Yankees and that's thing I hate to change the subject on you. Yankee fans are a little upset with Mets fans, but it's not custodo signed there. I mean it's not the first time the Mets got a big free agent. Carlos Beltran went there after going crazy in the playoffs. So it's not the first time. It's all the talk of it's our town now. Yankees are old news. Are the tides changing? No, no, they're not. That's, that's, that's where the nerve was struck, the gloating. Like all of a sudden little brother scored one basket and now he wants to talk like he's. You haven't beaten up. If it's, that's kind of where the issue, that's where the rubbing the wrong way. Now I want to talk.

[Peter Rosenberg]

If it's so far fetched, then why does it bother you?

[Sam]

No, I didn't bother me at all. But I will take every chance I can to laugh at them. Every chance. Now it's hard to laugh at them right now.

[Don Hahn]

Right?

[Sam]

You are what your record says you are the best team in baseball.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But, but, but if Derek, I'm like, I'm like, I'm not gonna shout over you. If, when Derek Jeter said, I don't.

[Alan]

Even think about the Mets, they're just like, yeah, yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Well, it sounds like Ruben's thinking about the Mets. Because if, because if you're bothered so much by it, like if they're, if they're really nothing.

[Alan]

He's more annoyed by Mets fans. Not the Mets themselves, not the team. It's the fans and the way they're talking.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But he's saying that it's a joke, their little brother. I don't pay them no mind. Then them chirping shouldn't bother you because it doesn't. Are you bothered by it? Because the chirping is becoming somewhat real in the fact that they're good.

[Alan]

It's like the chirping bothers me. The topic doesn't.

[Peter Rosenberg]

They're not, believe me, one season, one moment. The Mets aren't going to own the town. But even. Well, who cares? I think it's about winning a championship.

[Alan]

I don't know.

[Peter Rosenberg]

The championship this year they don't own the town, they'll own the league because they won the championship. But the Yankees are still more popular.

[Don Hahn]

But so, but it will mean something.

[Alan]

I mean, you don't want this even.

[Don Hahn]

Without a championship, even if they don't win a championship. If we get to like August and September and let, let's just pretend the Yankees cool off, right? They're, they're fighting to make the playoffs and the Mets are the best team in baseball. Everyone is mashing like. I understand what you're saying, Don. No, it doesn't matter and no, they won't, you know, surpass the Yankees. But Yankees fans will be annoyed day in, day out if the Mets are the talk like they're the back paper every day. It's just looking at what they're doing. Look at that.

[Alan]

I agree.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It'll mean something's chirping about it. Like if some fans chirping like hey, we got Soto, we own the town. Like if it, if, if they don't matter. Why are you letting that pay attention?

[Don Hahn]

Anyone who says they don't matter either direction is lying. They both matter. I'm sorry. Even though they haven't won in forever, they still matter. It's, it's, it's the shared space, it's, there's no way around it. And now that they're good, it matters even more. And I'm telling you, the, the, I've said this a few times. The Subway series, the first two game set they play. It's going to feel unlike anyone we've had in a very May ever since they started doing it.

[Alan]

This will be the first in a couple of weeks.

[Don Hahn]

Real one and coming up couple of.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Weeks at Yankee City 17th I think is the first game.

[Alan]

Can we get to it? Can we get in the building?

[Peter Rosenberg]

Well, that's gonna be weekends, right? Oh, that's right.

[Don Hahn]

We'll be fun. But let's see one step.

[Alan]

We know some people, don't we?

[Peter Rosenberg]

I know a Lot of people. Eddie in Brooklyn, you're on ESPN New York. What's up, Eddie?

[Sam]

Hey, how you doing, guys? I actually have a positive take on this already. I apologize that I didn't hear it, but we spend all of our time talking about the protection for Juan Soto. The protection for Juan Soto. But if we considered the way that Lindor and Alonso have started in the past, that Soto is providing protection for them. So he's. He is providing plenty right now because we don't know if Alonso and Lindor be hitting the way they're hitting without Soto sitting in between them.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Oh, yeah, yeah. There's no question. He certainly adds to that. That's a very good point, Eddie. And he is getting on base. Not as much as we'd like, but no, there, there's still a contribution there. There's no question. Lorenzo, in the car. You're on ESPN New York. What's up, Lorenzo?

[Alan]

Hey, what's up, guys?

[Sam]

So the reason it's not. When I watch the Mets and a long time Mets fan, what I see is Juan Soto's body language. Now, I get that he's upset that he's not doing well, so maybe he's visually showing it, but it doesn't look like he's buying into the happiness and everything that's going around the Mets. I mean, we've been the best record in baseball since last June. You know, bro, All Star break it can. It just doesn't look like he's buying into all that's going on around him. Like he could be, I don't know, I think a little bit more supportive. I wasn't a fan that we had gotten him, but I am a fan that we do have him.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And I think he's gonna beat up.

[Don Hahn]

Can I defend him though? This, this, this narrative has been building for a while and I feel like everyone's over analyzing everything Soto does in every single moment. Oh, there's a walk off home run. He was in the pile, but he was on the outside.

[Alan]

He wasn't the first one out.

[Don Hahn]

I saw that. Listen, I think he's very supportive. I think he's very in. It's early in the year. They're not winning the World Series. This is a guy, this is a World Series champion who's done nothing but played on teams that play well. Being good in April and May is not worth huge celebration for Juan Soto. He's not where the Mets fan is. He's a guy who won in Washington. He was great in San Diego, went to the World Series in New York and now is on the Mets. So he's probably, yeah, a little frustrated and down. That doesn't mean he's not supporting his teammates like Don. Don't you think they're like overanalyzing it a bit?

[Peter Rosenberg]

I do think sometimes just feeds into that narrative like he doesn't want to be here Now. Lorenzo said he was a Met fan, so he's analyzing it that way.

[Don Hahn]

But he said he was. He said he didn't want him in the first place.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Right? Exactly.

[Don Hahn]

It started with I didn't want him and now I don't think he's celebrating enough.

[Alan]

Imagine you did. You don't want.

[Don Hahn]

So I don't.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I don't.

[Don Hahn]

This is why we can't have anything.

[Alan]

That's why we have fraudulent Friday. Can't wait Friday. He's like built for this.

[Don Hahn]

Ryan Reynolds here from Mint Mobile.

[Alan]

I don't know if you knew this, but anyone can get the same premium.

[Don Hahn]

Wireless for 15amonth plan that I've been enjoying. It's not just for celebrities.

[Alan]

So do like I did and have.

[Peter Rosenberg]

One of your assistant's assistants switch you to Mint Mobile today.

[Don Hahn]

I'm told it's super easy to [e-mail].

[Peter Rosenberg]

Switch upfront payment of $45 for three month plan equivalent to $15 per month.

[Alan]

Required intro rate first three months only.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Then full price plan options available, taxes and fees extra. See full [e-mail] Add New Balance we believe if you run, you're a runner, however you choose to do it. Because when you're not worried about doing things the right way, you're free to discover your way. And that's what running is all about. Run your [e-mail] running click fast and save big shop blinds.com's spring cyber Monday sale and elevate your space with new custom window treatments today. DIY or let our pros handle everything from Measure to install. Blinds.com makes upgrading your home easy with free virtual consultations, honest pricing and free samples delivered to your door. Shop confidently with our 100% satisfaction guarantee. Hurry to Blinds.com's Spring Cyber Monday sale now. Save up to 45% with minimum purchase plus a free measure. Blinds.com rules and restrictions may apply.

[Alan]

Thanks for listening to the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast.

[Don Hahn]

I didn't listen to anything you just said.

[Alan]

Catch the show on demand whenever you want. Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Stevie Wonder's currently in the uk. He'll be at Madison Square Garden in October.

[Alan]

Oh, you're going, by the way.

[Don Hahn]

Let's. Let's ask for the suite right now.

[Alan]

You want to. All right. Family. We go out as a family.

[Don Hahn]

I'm in. I missed the last one. I went to the one, like, before that.

[Alan]

I just. I can't have him playing, like, the new stuff. Only, like. I mean, he does. He does give you, like, the planning, but.

[Don Hahn]

New stuff?

[Peter Rosenberg]

What new stuff?

[Alan]

You know, like stuff from the 90s.

[Don Hahn]

No, he. No, he plays.

[Alan]

He gives you.

[Don Hahn]

It is not.

[Alan]

Gives you what you came for.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Billy Joel.

[Alan]

The best thing about Billy Joel's show at the Garden, when he was always doing it night in, night out, he always played what you came to hear.

[Don Hahn]

That's all I know. Every night, Billy Joel would hit maybe two to three songs that would be considered a somewhat deep cut and only somewhat. A deep cut.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Well, the only problem that you have is when there's a band that's been around for a long time and they've got a new album and they feel like, I gotta play every song on the new album.

[Alan]

Pearl Jam did that to us.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It just.

[Alan]

Yeah, that's. Pearl Jam did that to us a bunch of years ago. And we were like, come on, come on. Where's Jeremy? Let's go.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I. I remember. I remember. I'm an Iron Maiden fan, and Bruce Dickinson, who's the lead singer of Iron Maiden, was serious. My. And my brother loved Iron Maiden, too. And he went to go see him, and they played, like, 30 songs, and 20 of them were, like, new. So there's a bunch of classics they didn't play. And my brother asked him, why do you do this? Like, we're on tour for the album. We've got to be able to perform the new stuff. That's why we go on tour to sell more albums. Billy Joel didn't have to worry about that. He had one new song in the last 20 years.

[Alan]

Right.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I mean, Stevie Wonder, the same thing.

[Don Hahn]

I'm looking. I'm looking at his last show at Crypto.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Okay.

[Don Hahn]

He did a show at crypto in December 2024.

[Alan]

Okay.

[Don Hahn]

Just happened.

[Alan]

2024.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah.

[Don Hahn]

This just happened at the.

[Alan]

Last year.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah.

[Don Hahn]

Like six months ago.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah.

[Alan]

This.

[Don Hahn]

But right before it turned to 2025.

[Alan]

Okay.

[Don Hahn]

He. He started out doing a tribute to Barry Gordy. He did Can We Fix Our Nation's Broken Heart and Ave Maria. So not like his records.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Right.

[Alan]

Just Ave Maria to start off, though.

[Don Hahn]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Wow.

[Don Hahn]

Then he goes into Master Blaster. Higher Ground.

[Alan]

Yes.

[Don Hahn]

Medley of Motown stuff. Tell me something good. Covering the Rufus record.

[Alan]

Nice.

[Don Hahn]

You are my sunshine into sunshine of my life.

[Alan]

Perfect.

[Don Hahn]

For once in my life Sign seal delivered. I'm yours, my sherry and more.

[Alan]

Now we're cooking this.

[Don Hahn]

He hits everything. I mean there are a couple that I'm like that are covers.

[Peter Rosenberg]

All right, so when did he play?

[Don Hahn]

Super Second to last.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah. So that tells you. Right. That tells you right there.

[Alan]

That's first encore.

[Don Hahn]

It tells you that it's arguably his biggest hit.

[Alan]

Yeah.

[Don Hahn]

And which. Which I wouldn't argue.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Right.

[Don Hahn]

He closes with do I do.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I would not doubt if that alternates now.

[Don Hahn]

He does a little bit before that. He does Knocks me off my feet at 33. But listen, he does. I just called to say I love you. Four songs from the end and then nobody likes I just called to say I love you.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But you got to do it for the people that were in a coma.

[Alan]

Yeah, the old people like it.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I'm sorry, is she in a coma? What movie?

[Don Hahn]

High Fidelity.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Right.

[Don Hahn]

One of the great. One of the great moments.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Game time is brought to you by Telehardou Irish Whiskey. Because when it's game time, it's. That's a good one. Matt's continue their series with the Diamondbacks with coverage immediately following this extravaganza on 880 at 6:30. And the Yankees close out their series with the Orioles at 635. Tullamore due. The original triple distilled, triple blended and triple cast matured Irish whiskey. Be sure to grab a Telemore due or try the new Tullamore Dew. Honey, during today's action, glasses up to enjoying Tullamore Dew responsibly. All right, let's get back to the phones. Robert is in Manhattan. You're on ESPN New York. What's up, Robert? Hi, Robert. Is he really out?

[Alan]

He's tired.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Robert. Oh no.

[Alan]

You go.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Wow.

[Alan]

Show's so good.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It puts you by the way, should.

[Don Hahn]

We feel away about that?

[Alan]

I do.

[Peter Rosenberg]

He was hold for 70 minutes.

[Don Hahn]

So yeah, an hour over an hour.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Can do it because again, because most of our callers are high, he probably binged like had a bunch of food after and he's. He's in a Dorito coma.

[Alan]

Let's talk.

[Sam]

You guys know.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Let's go to Jimmy among.

[Alan]

Let's talk.

[Peter Rosenberg]

You're on ESPN New York. What's up, Jimmy?

[Sam]

That is going to be a tough call to follow.

[Alan]

At least you're awake.

[Don Hahn]

By the way. If you don't follow it.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Bad.

[Don Hahn]

It's bad.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah.

[Sam]

Oh yeah. No pressure.

[Peter Rosenberg]

What's up?

[Sam]

Hey, I just. I Just wanted events. I mean, I knew we were gonna get crushed.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I had it.

[Sam]

Hurricanes in five. I'm a huge Devil's fan to your.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Ticket holder that the Rock was out of this world on Friday.

[Sam]

But Jesus Christ, man, after that performance.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yesterday, you deserve to lose that.

[Sam]

Like that was disgusting.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Three.

[Alan]

Oh, I'm speechless.

[Peter Rosenberg]

If you're facing limitation of three zero and you lose the game. You had a four three lead after that. Blew that Markstrom was great in the third period, great in overtime. Outside of that first period, their problem is they just can't score. And they didn't. They did nothing on the power play the entire series. Gave up a shorthanded goal in game two.

[Alan]

Who are you missing?

[Peter Rosenberg]

You're missing Jack Hughes. Yes, but you know, that's not a big deal. No, it is a big deal and I.

[Alan]

The fact that they got this far is pretty. The fact that they had them almost pushing a game six.

[Peter Rosenberg]

You got Mercer, you got Brat. You know, listen, their biggest problem, their. Their blue line was really banged up.

[Alan]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Dublin was a game time decision. Pesci was a game time decision. And they Both almost played 40 minutes last night. You're not, you know, no Luke Hughes, no Kovacevic. But you know what, everybody's going through injuries. It's a bad matchup for them. Carolina's just a better team grind too, so. But I understand the frustration. If you could have found a way to get an overtime goal there, get home for Friday, you could have made it more of a series instead of the first team eliminated from the postseason. So that kind of stinks. But that's the way it goes. They'll be back next year. They'll be fine.

[Alan]

They get healthy there. That's a very good team.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And I think, and I think the.

[Alan]

Hughes injury, the Jack Jackie, that changed everything.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Of course it did. And if they can get Quinn Hughes, which sounds like it's a possibility, it could be pretty interesting to have three brothers on the same team. Well, Peter's been preparing for it all day. Week, actually. Weeks hard.

[Alan]

He's been working.

[Peter Rosenberg]

He is really looking forward to it. It's E N N coming up next. Then it's Mets baseball right here on 880 esp in new on the ESPN New York app. Hey everybody.

[Alan]

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