Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Summary

Episode: Hour 4: Last Call Crew
Release Date: February 21, 2025
Hosts: Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg
Description: The trio delves into New York sports and beyond, engaging with callers to discuss recent games, team dynamics, and notable sports events.

Introduction and Caller Engagement

Opening Remarks and Caller Richard's Insights [00:30 - 05:44]

The episode kicks off with Don Hahn promoting a humorous Uber Eats delivery ad, setting a lighthearted tone. Shortly after, the hosts engage with Richard from Manhattan, who lauds Don George's achievements, particularly his acquisition and renovation of the Yankees in 1973. Richard reminisces about his introduction to hockey through Marv Albert in 1964 and expresses appreciation for the current coverage of New York hockey on the radio.

Notable Quote:

Richard [01:16]: "Don George's greatest accomplishment, he bought the Yankees in January. In '73, 10 months later, November, he was knocking down the old Yankee Stadium and renovating it. That's unbelievable."

The conversation shifts to Richard's experience with hockey, referencing past playoff fervor and the legendary 1974 Flyers. He highlights the unexpected success and hype surrounding the recent Four Nations hockey tournament, comparing its impact to the iconic Billie Jean King vs. Bobby Riggs tennis match.

Notable Quote:

Richard [04:00]: "The greatest hyped exhibition ever hype was definitely the Billie Jean King Bobby Riggs tennis match. That was the biggest hype because they were talking about that for weeks and weeks."

Discussion on the Four Nations Tournament [05:44 - 07:41]

Don Hahn praises the Four Nations hockey tournament, describing it as a "perfect storm" of political tension, intense competition, and fan anticipation that culminated in an exhilarating overtime game. He draws parallels between the tournament's unexpected success and unpredictable hits in music and film industries, questioning the NHL's initial expectations.

Notable Quote:

Don Hahn [05:44]: "It was a perfect storm, all the political stuff that went on, the booing, the fights, it just really amped up everyone's anticipation for what happened last night."

Peter Rosenberg expands on the tournament's impact, emphasizing the NHL's surprise at the event's traction and speculating on future iterations if different nations were involved. He contemplates whether the Four Nations could replicate its success without the specific dynamics present in the current lineup.

Notable Quote:

Peter Rosenberg [06:30]: "There is no way anybody in a boardroom of the NHL thought that we're going to get a four nations championship game between the United States and Canada that will generate close to 10 million people watching."

Caller Howie's Perspective on Athlete Security [10:16 - 11:56]

Howie, a retired Supreme Court officer, shares his observations on athletes' reluctance to hire professional security despite their wealth. He criticizes the tendency of athletes and celebrities to carry weapons themselves rather than employing retired law enforcement professionals, citing safety and practicality concerns.

Notable Quote:

Howie [10:26]: "They'd always tell me how these guys are cheap and they're dumb and dirt. I said, what do you mean?"

Peter Rosenberg responds by discussing the cultural aspects of displaying wealth through jewelry and the paradox of athletes increasing their need for security by flaunting their riches.

Notable Quote:

Peter Rosenberg [11:00]: "They want to show off their wealth, they want to show off their money. I guess they're entitled to do that. But coming with that is going to be the possibility of getting robbed or calling attention to yourself or putting yourself in harm's way."

Insights on NHL and MLS Developments [13:08 - 20:14]

Douglas from Peekskill commends Don Hahn's hockey coverage and inquires about the NHL's future plans post-Four Nations tournament. The hosts discuss the NHL's strategies, including the continuation of the All-Star Game and its integration with the Olympics and World Cup, highlighting the evolving landscape of professional hockey.

Notable Quote:

Douglas [13:08]: "It was a fun, phenomenal tournament. Unfortunately, it just didn't end the way we wanted it."

Peter Rosenberg outlines the NHL's approach to maintaining international interest, referencing Gary Bettman's description of the Four Nations as an "appetizer" for larger global events. He speculates on potential changes in participating nations and the impact of geopolitical factors on future tournaments.

Notable Quote:

Peter Rosenberg [14:43]: "The All Star Game is still going to exist, but it's not going to be the go-to every single year that it's been."

The conversation transitions to Major League Soccer (MLS) as Douglas shifts focus to soccer. Don Hahn promotes the upcoming MLS season and highlights the New York Red Bulls' consistent playoff appearances, mentioning Lionel Messi's participation as a significant draw.

Notable Quote:

Don Hahn [16:31]: "MLS is kicking off tomorrow and you've got New York Red Bulls in Cincinnati. They're the only professional team in the area to make the playoffs every year since 2010."

Yankees' Beard Policy and Organizational Changes [20:14 - 22:40]

The discussion veers towards the New York Yankees' recent policy change regarding player facial hair. Don Hahn and Peter Rosenberg discuss the implications of this shift, applauding the organization's willingness to adapt and modernize its image, which historically emphasized a clean-cut look.

Notable Quote:

Peter Rosenberg [22:40]: "Good for them. Yeah, I mean, it goes to show you that they're willing to make adjustments."

They compare the Yankees' evolving policies to the longstanding influence of Don George, suggesting that while the organization's culture is entrenched, modernization efforts signal a forward-thinking approach.

Final Thoughts and Upcoming Topics [22:40 - End]

As the episode winds down, the hosts touch on recent performances by the St. John's basketball team and speculate on their potential seeding in upcoming tournaments. They wrap up by emphasizing the show's commitment to covering a wide range of sports topics, encouraging listeners to engage and call in with their interests.

Notable Quote:

Peter Rosenberg [19:36]: "Well, if they end up being ranked in the top nine, then wouldn't the math then tell you?"

Don Hahn previews upcoming segments, including coverage of the Knicks, Cavs, and Rangers pregame, ensuring listeners remain informed about future episodes.

Conclusion

This episode of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg offers a dynamic exploration of New York sports, blending host insights with engaging caller interactions. From the unexpected success of the Four Nations hockey tournament to the Yankees' evolving image, the trio provides comprehensive coverage and thoughtful analysis, appealing to a diverse sports fanbase.

For More Information:
Listen to the full episode on 880 ESPN, the ESPN New York app, or your smart speaker.