Holmberg's Morning Sickness - Arizona Episode Summary: July 15, 2025

Holmberg's Morning Sickness on 98 KUPD delivers another engaging episode, hosted by John Holmberg alongside Brady Bogen, Bret Vesely, and Dick Toledo. This episode delves into the sensational performances at the Home Run Derby, the controversy surrounding Jay Cutler's hunting exploits, and the peculiar case of a man sporting an "Addicted to Ink" tank top without any tattoos. Below is a detailed summary capturing the key discussions, insights, and humorous exchanges from the show.

1. Home Run Derby Sensations and Steroid Speculations

The episode kicks off with a spirited discussion about Cal Raleigh's impressive performance in the Home Run Derby. John Holmberg draws parallels between Raleigh's current form and the steroid-fueled golden era of the early to mid-1990s, questioning the resurgence of performance-enhancing substances in baseball.

• John Holmberg [02:15]: "Watched some of that Home Run Derby last night. I've got questions. Man, this is eerily reminiscent of the early '90s, mid-'90s of baseball. Where the juice is back."

Brett Vesely concurs, noting the altered conditions that might contribute to such performances, while Dick Toledo adds his skepticism about the consistency of steroid use among players.

• Brett Vesely [02:15]: "Hey man, 20."

• Dick Toledo [04:26]: "Remember we used to go catch him after his workouts? Who?"

The hosts debate whether Cal Raleigh's achievements are a result of enhanced training or illicit substance use, reflecting on past scandals like Sammy Sosa's corked bat and steroid admissions.

• John Holmberg [05:08]: "It's the killer fat. It's the stuff that stops you in your sleep."

The conversation evolves into a broader critique of baseball's ongoing struggle with corruption, highlighting the cyclical nature of gambling and drug-related issues within the sport.

• John Holmberg [07:09]: "This is baseball again. They found something. And while we get all excited, don't, don't, Mariner fan."

2. Jay Cutler's Sable Antelope Hunt Sparks Backlash

Transitioning from baseball, the hosts address Jay Cutler's recent social media post featuring his hunt of a sable antelope. The discussion revolves around the ethical implications of hunting rare animals and the ensuing online backlash.

• John Holmberg [14:00]: "Holmberg's morning sickness. I wish they'd do that with women's sports. Be honest about it. Like one of those giant broads in the WNBA and her nickname's the Big Dumper because her ass is huge."

• Brett Vesely [15:16]: "On a hunt that I supposed."

John critiques Jay Cutler's intent behind the post, suggesting it serves more as a trolling act rather than a genuine hunting accomplishment. The hosts explore the cultural sensitivity surrounding hunting trophies and the perception of such acts on social media platforms.

• John Holmberg [18:50]: "You put them up on Instagram or Facebook, that all changed everything. I just find it strange."

The segment highlights the disconnect between hunters' intentions and public perception, questioning whether the act of posing with a rare kill is inherently disrespectful or simply a matter of presentation.

3. The Curious Case of the "Addicted to Ink" Tank Top

In the final segment, the show delves into an amusing anecdote about a man wearing an "Addicted to Ink" tank top despite having no tattoos. The hosts dissect the irony and the social messages conveyed through such apparel.

• John Holmberg [34:09]: "The Big Dumper in Denver. 900 home runs this year. And I guess what I'm saying is if they can make it so the steroids make you faster and stronger, but you are also a fat tub of crap. No one's gonna look into it."

• Brett Vesely [35:22]: "Yeah. Would you. Are you black and you tattooed yourself white?"

John expresses bewilderment over the contradiction, pondering whether it's a marketing ploy or a statement against body art. Brady Bogen adds humor by comparing it to a mislabeling mishap akin to kindergarten wardrobe malfunctions.

• Brady Bogen [35:39]: "Great ink work."

The discussion evolves into a broader commentary on the authenticity of personal branding on social media, emphasizing the importance of congruence between one's appearance and their portrayed image.

4. Final Thoughts and Community Reflections

Towards the end of the episode, the hosts reflect on societal norms and the evolution of personal expression in the digital age. John Holmberg emphasizes the challenges of navigating public perception while maintaining individual authenticity.

• John Holmberg [28:08]: "But is it worth the hassle? Especially if you're some. It is now again. But then why have it?"

Brett Vesely and Dick Toledo contribute by sharing personal anecdotes and reinforcing the notion that social media often amplifies minor peculiarities into significant controversies.

Conclusion

This episode of Holmberg's Morning Sickness masterfully intertwines sports commentary with social observations, delivering both critical insights and lighthearted banter. From scrutinizing potential steroid use in baseball to dissecting the complexities of hunting ethics and the nuances of personal branding, the hosts provide a comprehensive and entertaining overview that resonates with a wide audience.

Notable Quotes:

• John Holmberg [02:15]: "This is eerily reminiscent of the early '90s, mid-'90s of baseball. Where the juice is back."

• John Holmberg [07:09]: "This is baseball again. They found something. And while we get all excited, don't, don't, Mariner fan."

• John Holmberg [34:09]: "If they can make it so the steroids make you faster and stronger, but you are also a fat tub of crap. No one's gonna look into it."

• John Holmberg [28:08]: "But is it worth the hassle? Especially if you're some. It is now again. But then why have it?"