The Dan Patrick Show Episode: HOUR 2 - Bob Costas, Pablo Torre
Release Date: May 9, 2025
Host: Dan Patrick
Guests: Bob Costas, Pablo Torre

1. Introduction

In Hour 2 of The Dan Patrick Show, host Dan Patrick engages in an in-depth conversation with legendary sportscaster Bob Costas and sports journalist Pablo Torre. The episode delves into a range of topics from Major League Baseball dynamics to personal insights into Bill Belichick's off-field affairs.

2. Pittsburgh Pirates' Manager Dismissal and Team Performance

Dan Patrick opens the discussion with Bob Costas about the recent firing of the Pittsburgh Pirates' manager, Derek Shelton.

Bob Costas:
"The Pirates have fired their manager after a prolonged period of underperformance. They've consistently fallen short, struggling to maintain a winning record despite having a rich baseball history and a passionate fan base." ([03:12])

The conversation highlights the Pirates' historical success contrasted with their current struggles, emphasizing the challenges faced by smaller market teams in competing with higher payroll franchises.

Key Points:

• The Pirates have not finished over .500 lately, with only four seasons of 80+ wins since 1992.
• Ownership's reluctance to invest in multi-year contracts has hindered team development.
• Consideration of trading key players like Paul Scheems for long-term benefits.

Dan Patrick:
"What's the Pirates' excuse for their consistent underperformance when competing in a division with teams that aren't significantly outspending them?" ([05:05])

Costas responds by dissecting the organizational shortcomings and the lack of strategic investment, questioning the future direction of the franchise.

3. Audience Poll: Career Choices and Bob Costas Insights

The show features an interactive segment where listeners vote on whose career they admire the most among Spike Lee, Bob Costas, and Mark Messier.

Bob Costas:
"I'm going to say Bob Costas. People see my career as stable, covering a wide range of events, and maintaining longevity in the industry." ([08:15])

Costas expresses surprise at receiving 47% of the votes, followed closely by Mark Messier and Spike Lee. He reflects on the perception of his career's stability and versatility.

Notable Quote:
"They have to cover all these events. You get to wear a suit and tie. Seems easy." ([08:56])

4. Discussion on Hollywood Sequels and Film Industry

The conversation transitions to the topic of film sequels, with Bob Costas sharing his views on their quality and impact.

Bob Costas:
"Sequels often lack creativity. While some, like Terminator 2 and the Bourne series, stand out, most don't live up to the originals." ([10:34])

The dialogue covers the success of high-quality sequels versus the general trend of studios favoring profitable but uninspired follow-ups.

Dan Patrick:
"Bourne movies have maintained consistency, unlike many other sequels that falter." ([12:00])

5. MLB's Pete Rose and Hall of Fame Discussions

A significant portion of the episode addresses the ongoing debate surrounding Pete Rose's potential induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame and its political implications.

Bob Costas:
"With President Trump collaborating with MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, there's a possibility Pete Rose might be reinstated onto the Hall of Fame ballot." ([35:24])

Dan Patrick:
"If Pete Rose is taken off the restricted list, it could set a precedent for other contentious figures like Shoeless Joe Jackson." ([36:08])

The discussion delves into the intricacies of MLB's Hall of Fame voting process, the impact of political influence, and the historical context of Pete Rose's candidacy.

Notable Quote:
"Baseball has an antitrust exemption that protects them, but political maneuvers could influence decisions like Pete Rose's eligibility." ([37:46])

6. Interview with Pablo Torre: Bill Belichick's Media Empire and Personal Life

In a candid segment, Pablo Torre shares revelations about Bill Belichick's personal life, specifically focusing on his relationship with Jordan Hudson and the ensuing media complications.

Pablo Torre:
"Jordan Hudson has been taking unprecedented control over Belichick's media presence, undermining his long-established reputation for leadership and discretion." ([47:26])

He discusses an incident where Hudson disrupted a commercial shoot with controversial behavior, raising questions about Belichick's autonomy and decision-making.

Bob Costas:
"Bill Belichick's relationship with Hudson is damaging his image and could jeopardize his standing within the NFL." ([48:26])

Torre elaborates on the internal struggles within the University of North Carolina's athletics department regarding Hudson's influence and the broader implications for Belichick's career.

Notable Quote:
"Belichick is insulated by his inner circle, but Hudson's overreach is creating a rift that's hard to mend." ([51:44])

Pablo Torre:
"The CBS interview fiasco was a turning point. Hudson's attempts to control the narrative exposed vulnerabilities in Belichick's management of his public persona." ([51:44])

7. Conclusion

The episode wraps up with reflections on the discussed topics, emphasizing the complexities of managing sports franchises, the impact of personal relationships on professional careers, and the evolving landscape of sports media.

Dan Patrick:
"Understanding these dynamics is crucial for fans and stakeholders alike as we navigate the future of sports leadership." ([53:03])

Notable Quotes Summary

• Bob Costas:
  "The Pirates have fired their manager after a prolonged period of underperformance." ([03:12])
  "Sequels often lack creativity. While some stand out, most don't live up to the originals." ([10:34])
  "Baseball has an antitrust exemption that protects them, but political maneuvers could influence decisions like Pete Rose's eligibility." ([37:46])

• Dan Patrick:
  "What's the Pirates' excuse for their consistent underperformance?" ([05:05])
  "Bourne movies have maintained consistency, unlike many other sequels that falter." ([12:00])
  "If Pete Rose is taken off the restricted list, it could set a precedent for other contentious figures." ([36:08])

• Pablo Torre:
  "Jordan Hudson has been taking unprecedented control over Belichick's media presence." ([47:26])
  "Belichick is insulated by his inner circle, but Hudson's overreach is creating a rift that's hard to mend." ([51:44])

Conclusion

Hour 2 of The Dan Patrick Show offers listeners a comprehensive look into the challenges faced by sports franchises, the intersection of politics and sports governance, and the personal dynamics that influence public figures in the sports world. Through insightful discussions with Bob Costas and Pablo Torre, the episode provides valuable perspectives on current events shaping the landscape of American sports.