Podcast Summary: The Dan Patrick Show – Episode with Dan Beyer & Aaron Torres on the MLB All-Star Game, Caitlin Clark & Wyndham Clark
Release Date: July 17, 2025
Host/Authors: iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network

Introduction

In this episode of The Dan Patrick Show, hosted by Dan Beyer and Aaron Torres from the iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network, the hosts delve into the recent MLB All-Star Game held in Atlanta. They are joined by insightful contributors including Monty Belanos, Jason Stewart, and Ryan Smith. The discussion centers around the game's unique conclusion, the implementation of the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) system, player performances, and related sports news, including updates from the WNBA and recent incidents in golf.

MLB All-Star Game Highlights

The heart of the discussion revolves around the exhilarating ending of the MLB All-Star Game, which concluded in a tie of six-all after nine innings and was decided by a Home Run Derby. Rich, one of the co-hosts, expresses his enthusiasm:

“Ah, what an All-Star game it was... I loved every second of it last night.” (03:11)

Covino adds to the excitement, highlighting the game's celebratory nature:

“I thought it was just a very well done night and celebration of baseball overall.” (04:14)

Monty Belanos emphasizes the historical tributes made during the game, particularly honoring Hank Aaron:

“Seeing that last night and being like, well, this isn't the park, but they're still highlighting the place...” (07:38)

Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) System Implementation

A significant portion of the conversation is dedicated to the introduction of the ABS system in the All-Star Game. Rich shares his mixed feelings about the system:

“I don't like the middleman of it. I feel you go all in or you don't exactly on it... I thought that portion of it worked really well.” (10:21)

Covino remains cautiously optimistic but expresses skepticism about the system's long-term effectiveness:

“Maybe it'll just take a little getting used to.” (09:38)

Jason Stewart offers a critical perspective, suggesting that the ABS system may embarrass umpires and questioning its rollout during an exhibition game:

“MLB was doing the umpires a disservice by having ABS... why roll it out for an exhibition game when you could actually just have it in place for games that matter in the postseason?” (12:20)

Player Performances and Highlights

The hosts commend Kyle Schwarber’s outstanding performance, particularly his pivotal home runs that shifted the game's momentum in the National League's favor:

“That's MVP material if he gets the 30 right here... ultimately, what we're gonna remember is what Kyle Schwarber did last night.” (42:08)

Covino echoes this sentiment, acknowledging Schwarber's impact:

“So there you go.” (42:08)

Monty Belanos adds that Schwarber's performance was a defining moment:

“That was a huge win Major League Baseball could have.” (07:38)

Player Interviews and Mic'd Up Experiences

The discussion touches on the trend of mic'd up players during games, likening it to the Manning Cast in the NFL. Rich critiques the overuse of in-game interviews, especially when they detract from the game's flow:

“There were a lot of interviews, like when they got to Matt Olson... All you're saying is, like, what do you think of Misarowski... Like, you know, and that's in the eighth inning.” (16:21)

Jason Stewart supports this view, advocating for more selective interviewing:

“We could get into the pluses and... but ultimately that's the biggest win Major League Baseball could have.” (19:47)

Social Media Reactions and Audience Engagement

The hosts discuss social media reactions to the ABS system and the All-Star Game's conclusion. Covino shares an interaction where he was advised to relax about the system’s reception:

“As long as you accept everything is a circus, then why be offended by anything that happened last night?” (22:23)

Jason Stewart reflects on public criticism:

“He basically said, relax. And I'm like, you're right.” (22:39)

Windham Clark Incident at the U.S. Open

Transitioning to golf, the hosts address the recent controversy involving Wyndham Clark at the U.S. Open. Clark’s aggressive behavior led to significant consequences:

“Windham Clark's damaged locker... the club has decided to fight back.” (25:19)

Rich praises the club's decision to hold Clark accountable:

“I love it because it shows that nobody is bigger than... the course.” (45:05)

Covino compares this to other sports' handling of athlete behavior, emphasizing the importance of institutional integrity:

“We don't want to say the sport, right? But what are our constant complaints about athletes demanding trades...” (45:51)

WNBA and Caitlin Clark Update

The conversation briefly shifts to the WNBA, focusing on Caitlin Clark’s injury and upcoming events. Clark, a prominent figure, was ruled out for a game due to a right groin injury:

“She was listed as questionable... officially been ruled out for tonight's game against the Liberty.” (40:36)

The hosts discuss the potential impact of Clark's absence and the future of WNBA events:

“Caitlin Clark in a chair for the three-point contest versus everybody else.” (41:07)

Conclusion

Covino and Rich wrap up the episode by reflecting on the All-Star Game's success and the potential future of MLB with the ABS system. They emphasize the importance of maintaining the game's celebratory spirit while adapting to new technologies. The episode provides a comprehensive analysis of recent sports events, player performances, and the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Rich: “Ah, what an All-Star game it was... I loved every second of it last night.” (03:11)
• Covino: “Maybe it'll just take a little getting used to.” (09:38)
• Jason Stewart: “MLB was doing the umpires a disservice by having ABS... why roll it out for an exhibition game when you could actually just have it in place for games that matter in the postseason?” (12:20)
• Rich: “I don't like the middleman of it. I feel you go all in or you don't exactly on it... I thought that portion of it worked really well.” (10:21)
• Jason Stewart: “He basically said, relax. And I'm like, you're right.” (22:39)
• Rich: “I love it because it shows that nobody is bigger than... the course.” (45:05)

This episode offers insightful commentary on the intersection of technology and traditional sports, the significance of player conduct, and the dynamics of fan engagement in modern sports broadcasting. Whether you're a seasoned sports enthusiast or new to the scene, Dan Beyer and Aaron Torres provide a comprehensive and engaging analysis of the latest happenings in the sports world.