Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 3: Yankees & Knicks

Release Date: June 4, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast, hosts Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve deep into the current state of New York's beloved sports teams—the Yankees and the Knicks. Skipping over the initial advertisements, the trio jumps straight into vibrant discussions, providing listeners with expert analysis, spirited debates, and noteworthy insights.

1. Knicks’ Head Coaching Situation

Timestamp: [00:39] – [02:30]

The episode kicks off with an intense conversation about the New York Knicks' search for their next head coach. Alan Hahn speculates on the potential timeline for the announcement, suggesting that it might not coincide with the NBA Finals to avoid overshadowing the event.

Notable Quote:

Don Hahn: "We got the Knicks and who the next head coach is going to be. You have any idea of a timetable at all?"
[00:39]

Key Points:

• The possibility of a swift coaching announcement if the NBA Finals conclude quickly.
• Discussion on the optics of announcing a new coach during or immediately after the Finals.
• Consideration of the Knicks’ draft position and lack of immediate draft picks reducing the urgency.

2. Mets vs. Dodgers Game Recap

Timestamp: [02:30] – [03:57]

Transitioning seamlessly, the trio analyzes the recent Mets game against the Dodgers, highlighting the Mets' competitive spirit despite losing a substantial lead.

Key Points:

• Mets surrendering a 5-4 lead but showcasing resilience.
• Mike Soto’s impressive performance with five consecutive extra-base hits.
• The competitive nature of the Mets against a formidable Dodgers team at Chavez Ravine.

Notable Quote:

Don Hahn: "Soto's got a big three-run home run. He's got an extra base hit now in five consecutive games. So it looks like it's starting to warm up."
[02:58]

3. Yankees’ Closer Conundrum: Devin Williams vs. Luke Weaver

Timestamp: [03:57] – [12:02]

A significant portion of the episode centers on the Yankees' pitching staff, specifically debating whether Devin Williams or Luke Weaver should serve as the primary closer. The hosts critique Williams' performance under pressure and discuss Weaver’s potential as a more fitting closer.

Key Points:

• Devin Williams’ struggles when thrust into the closer role, including blowing a save and pitching numerous pitches in high-stress situations.
• Luke Weaver’s suitability for the closer position, emphasizing his composure and consistent performance.
• Brian Cashman’s handling of the situation, with Hahn and Don expressing skepticism about relying on Williams.
• The impact of New York’s high-pressure environment on pitchers' performances.

Notable Quotes:

Alan Hahn: "I think Williams is not the right fit for the closing role in New York."
[07:22]

Don Hahn: "Are you ready for New York? ... You're going to be compared to the greatest closer in the history of the sport."
[08:12]

4. MLB’s Star Players: Aaron Judge vs. Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout

Timestamp: [16:43] – [24:16]

The discussion shifts to Major League Baseball’s marquee players, particularly Aaron Judge of the Yankees, and how his visibility compares to stars in other leagues like Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout.

Key Points:

• Aaron Judge’s prominence due to playing for the Yankees, a team with massive media coverage.
• Shohei Ohtani’s dual-threat capability as both a pitcher and hitter, yet limited exposure outside championship series.
• Mike Trout’s exceptional performance overshadowed by playing for the Angels, a team with less national attention.
• The importance of market and team success in elevating a player’s profile.

Notable Quotes:

Don Hahn: "Baseball's got to realize what they have right now. They've got two of the best players in the sport... One's in New York and one's in Los Angeles."
[23:59]

Alan Hahn: "If you are a Yankee fan, you probably saw Ohtani during a World Series and... you've seen so much of Aaron Judge."
[23:48]

5. Listener Interactions and MVP Debate

Timestamp: [27:30] – [32:37]

Listeners join the conversation with questions and comments, including a debate comparing Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge for the MVP award under identical performance conditions.

Key Points:

• Discussion on whether a historic performance like a 50-50 season (50 home runs and 50 stolen bases) would sway MVP voters.
• Debate on the subjective nature of awards and the potential impact of extraordinary statistics on voting outcomes.

Notable Quotes:

Alan Hahn: "Nobody's ever done 50, 50."
[30:05]

Don Hahn: "I feel that would sway some voters."
[30:09]

6. Knicks Player Exit Interviews and Team Dynamics

Timestamp: [33:13] – [39:29]

The hosts examine exit interviews of Knicks players, particularly focusing on internal team dynamics and communications with head coach Tom Thibodeau.

Key Points:

• Josh Hart’s public comments about pushing for lineup changes and increased bench involvement.
• The collective sentiment among players about the coach’s methods and team strategies.
• The potential brewing discontent leading to coaching changes, amplified by recent playoff outcomes.

Notable Quotes:

Alan Hahn: "Josh Hart was public in saying that he went to Tom Thibodeau to push twice to push him to make the lineup change."
[34:06]

Don Hahn: "This was a result of a season where the FR reached a boiling point and the loss just magnified it."
[39:29]

7. Brief Advertising Breaks

Throughout the episode, listeners are briefly interrupted by advertisements for brands like BetterHelp, Shopify, LinkedIn, Tullamore Dew Whiskey, Mint Mobile, and Uncrustables. These segments are seamlessly integrated but do not detract from the main content.

8. Light-Hearted Banter and Book Discussions

Timestamp: [41:03] – [49:02]

As the episode progresses, the hosts engage in humorous exchanges about reading habits and discuss the book Raekwon Criminology, showcasing their camaraderie and lighter side.

Key Points:

• Personal anecdotes about reading routines and preferences.
• Playful debates about the merits of specific books and humorous critiques of each other's reading habits.

Notable Quotes:

Peter Rosenberg: "I ran out. I have the Angels Ohtani jersey in the closet. He is a jump off the page the second you see him play."
[22:22]

Don Hahn: "I have to read it on my back."
[32:44]

9. Conclusion and Final Remarks

Timestamp: [50:32] – End

Wrapping up, the hosts encourage listeners to subscribe and tune in through various platforms, ensuring that fans stay connected and informed about upcoming episodes and sports events.

Notable Quote:

Alan Hahn: "Catch the show on demand whenever you want. Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts."
[27:06]

Key Takeaways

• Knicks’ Coaching Search: Potential timelines and strategic announcements to avoid overshadowing NBA Finals.

• Mets vs. Dodgers Analysis: Mets showing grit despite losing leads, with Mike Soto’s standout performance.

• Yankees’ Closer Debate: Ongoing discussion about Devin Williams’ suitability versus Luke Weaver’s steadiness in high-pressure roles.

• MLB Star Visibility: Aaron Judge’s elevated profile due to the Yankees’ media presence compared to other elite players like Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout.

• Team Dynamics: Insights into internal team communications and potential coaching changes within the Knicks.

• Listener Engagement: Active participation through listener calls and debates, enriching the discussion with diverse perspectives.

Final Thoughts

This episode of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg masterfully balances in-depth sports analysis with entertaining banter, offering listeners both substance and enjoyment. Whether you're a die-hard Yankees fan, a Knicks enthusiast, or someone who appreciates insightful sports commentary, this episode provides a comprehensive look into the current landscape of New York sports.

For more episodes and to stay updated with the latest in New York sports, be sure to subscribe to the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast on 880 ESPN, the ESPN New York app, or your preferred podcast platform.