Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Summary

Title: Hour 3: Tipping & HR Derby
Hosts: Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg
Release Date: July 11, 2025

1. Introduction to Episode Topics

In this engaging third hour of the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast, hosts Don Hahn, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve into a mix of current sports events, analytical debates, and lively interactions with listeners. The primary topics of discussion include recent performances by Major League Baseball teams, allegations of pitching strategies in baseball, and the implications of the Home Run Derby on player performance.

2. Baseball Breakdown: Mets vs. Yankees Performance

Timestamp: [02:42] – [06:50]

The hosts begin by analyzing recent performances in Major League Baseball, particularly focusing on the New York Mets' performance against the Baltimore Orioles and the New York Yankees' remarkable comeback against the Seattle Mariners.

Don Hahn highlights the Mets' struggles:
"We opened the show with the Mets losing two out of three to the Orioles. A wasted day yesterday, getting swept in a doubleheader." ([02:42])

In contrast, Alan Rosenberg praises the Yankees' resilience:
"The Yankees had an amazing comeback. Only the second time since 1961 that a team was getting no hit into the eighth inning, down by five runs and come back and win the game." ([03:03])

3. Allegations of Pitch Tipping and Strategic Analysis

Timestamp: [03:31] – [07:24]

The conversation shifts to allegations that Yankees' closer, Munoz, may have been tipping his pitches, potentially giving away his use of sliders to opposing hitters.

Anthony raises the concern:
"Many people, especially on social media, were saying that Munoz was tipping his pitches." ([03:31])

Alan discusses Munoz's demeanor and skepticism about the allegations:
"You can't hear in his voice that he's just playing dumb... you could tell by his tone he's not giving that up." ([04:06])

Further analysis by Anthony points out observable patterns during the game, such as Munoz throwing an excessive number of sliders with increasing off-target pitches, suggesting mental frustration:
"You could see his frustration on a lot of the pitches, but he almost went exclusively with the slider." ([05:13])

Don Hahn adds context by comparing to historical instances:
"Andy Pettit in the 2001 World Series... some difference between stealing signs and situational tells." ([06:07])

4. Implications of the Home Run Derby on Player Performance

Timestamp: [13:34] – [35:00]

A significant portion of the discussion centers around Jazz Chisholm, a Yankees player selected for the Home Run Derby, and the potential impact of participating in the event on his performance and health.

Anthony expresses concern:
"Anthony, you and I were texting about that too... I'm going to be a little selfish here. I want Jazz Chisholm to be healthy for the second half of the season because I want him to help us possibly get back to the World Series." ([16:23])

Conversely, Alan Rosenberg defends Chisholm's participation:
"He seems like the perfect guy to do it. He wants to do it... he's such a fun guy, but I think he's refreshing, and I think he's the perfect addition to the Home Run Derby." ([14:32])

Listeners contribute their opinions through calls, debating whether the Home Run Derby enhances or detracts from player performance. A caller underscores the physical toll:
"His shoulder... the thing that concerns me the most is the shoulder he loves to do. He wants to do it." ([15:50])

Alan acknowledges both perspectives:
"I see both. I think both of you were right." ([17:02])

The debate extends to comparisons with past participants and their subsequent performance, referencing players like Josh Hamilton and highlighting the balance between personal ambition and team success.

5. Listener Engagement: Fraudulent Behavior in Fandom

Timestamp: [27:25] – [46:34]

The podcast features dynamic interactions with listeners who express strong opinions about team loyalty and professional broadcasting ethics.

Howard, a lifelong Rangers fan, challenges Don Hahn's integrity: "I'm one of those maniacs who will watch the game on TV but listen on the radio because you are so amazing at what you do." ([27:30])

Alan Rosenberg responds by emphasizing professionalism over personal fandom:
"I'm calling Ranger games. So, no, I'm no longer a [Devil] fan. I am a professional doing my job." ([41:10])

Anthony reinforces the importance of unbiased analysis:
"I'm supposed to analyze things and discuss them and explain them, and that's my job." ([44:17])

This segment underscores the hosts' commitment to objective sports commentary, regardless of personal allegiances, fostering a conversation about the balance between fan passion and professional integrity.

6. Debate on the Home Run Derby vs. Dunk Contest

Timestamp: [30:04] – [36:05]

The hosts engage in a spirited debate comparing the allure of the MLB Home Run Derby to the NBA's Dunk Contest, evaluating their entertainment value and impact on their respective sports.

Anthony advocates for the Home Run Derby:
"The Home Run Derby has far surpassed the slam dunk contest as the best of any of the major sports All Star Weekend extravaganzas." ([33:19])

Alan counters by questioning its uniqueness:
"I find it kind of boring... it's the same thing over and over again, but it's majestic." ([33:55])

The discussion touches on the creativity, repetition, and viewer engagement of both events, highlighting differing opinions on what makes a sports showcase compelling.

7. Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

Timestamp: [46:38] – [47:52]

As the episode approaches its end, the hosts wrap up their discussions with light-hearted banter and tease upcoming content:

Alan concludes with a teaser for a new "30 for 30" series:
"30 for 30 podcast presents a brand new original series, Chasing Basketball Heaven, available July 22." ([47:34])

The episode underscores the podcast's blend of in-depth sports analysis, host chemistry, and interactive listener segments, providing a comprehensive and entertaining listening experience for sports enthusiasts.

Notable Quotes:

• Alan Rosenberg: "The Yankees had an amazing comeback. Only the second time since 1961 that a team was getting no hit into the eighth inning, down by five runs and come back and win the game." ([03:03])

• Alan Rosenberg: "I'm calling Ranger games. So, no, I'm no longer a [Devil] fan. I am a professional doing my job." ([41:10])

• Anthony: "The Home Run Derby has far surpassed the slam dunk contest as the best of any of the major sports All Star Weekend extravaganzas." ([33:19])

• Alan Rosenberg: "He seems like the perfect guy to do it. He wants to do it... he's such a fun guy, but I think he's refreshing, and I think he's the perfect addition to the Home Run Derby." ([14:32])

This episode of "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" effectively balances analytical discussions, listener interactions, and spirited debates, providing listeners with a multifaceted perspective on contemporary sports issues.