The Dan Patrick Show – Hour 3: Tom Verducci and Joe Thomas Release Date: January 22, 2025

In this engaging episode of The Dan Patrick Show, hosts Dan Patrick, Tom Verducci, and NFL Hall of Famer Joe Thomas delve into a variety of topics spanning Major League Baseball (MLB) Hall of Fame voting controversies, the financial dynamics of MLB teams, the evolution of offensive linemen techniques in the NFL, and potential rule changes concerning quarterback plays. The conversation is punctuated with humor, insightful analysis, and interactive segments with callers, making it a comprehensive discussion for sports enthusiasts.

1. MLB Hall of Fame Voting Controversies

Timestamp: 06:02 – 12:50

Key Points:

• Ichiro Suzuki's Hall of Fame Candidacy: The discussion kicks off with the unexpected omission of Ichiro Suzuki from the Hall of Fame ballot. Dan Patrick expresses his support for Ichiro, highlighting his impressive career statistics, including 3,000 hits, a .300 batting average, and 500 stolen bases. He remarks, “Ichiro hit .323 against him with eight home runs. [...] One of only five guys that do that.”

• CC Sabathia's Comments: The conversation shifts to CC Sabathia’s remarks about Ichiro and Evan Longoria, where Sabathia admits difficulty in getting Ichiro out due to his exceptional performance. Patrick emphasizes that while Sabathia praised their skills, it shouldn’t influence voting decisions based on personal feelings.

• Transparency in Ballot Voting: The trio debates whether Hall of Fame ballots should be made public. Tom Verducci suggests, “I would prefer that it all be public,” advocating for greater transparency. However, Dan Patrick cautions against pre-vote disclosures, comparing it to potential manipulation similar to award show leaks.

• Impact of Non-Performance Factors: The discussion touches on whether personal opinions about players outside of their on-field performance should affect Hall of Fame voting. Patrick asserts, “I vote on someone's playing. [...] Doesn't mean you have to say, oh, therefore I'm not voting through the hall of Fame.”

Notable Quote:

Dan Patrick [06:56]: "Ichiro, to me, is a no-brainer... I like you, I would like to know what it was."

2. MLB Team Payroll Dynamics

Timestamp: 12:50 – 20:37

Key Points:

• Dodgers’ Payroll Strategy: The panel analyzes the Los Angeles Dodgers' significant payroll, discussing its impact on competitive balance within MLB. Tom Verducci notes the Dodgers' ability to circumvent traditional salary cap constraints through deferred contracts, stating, “They have a billion dollars in deferred money... It is pocket change for what they do and how they operate.”

• Competitive Implications: There's a debate on whether high payrolls create an uneven playing field. Dan Patrick argues that while wealthy teams like the Dodgers ensure a competitive atmosphere, it may stifle parity across the league.

• Future of Salary Caps: The conversation touches on the potential future of salary caps in MLB, with Tom Verducci suggesting that attempts to implement caps could lead to lockouts, drawing parallels to historical labor negotiations.

Notable Quotes:

Tom Verducci [12:50]: “They're playing by the rules, as you said... I think it's good for the game.”

Dan Patrick [14:36]: “There's no way that they should just be able to circumvent the salary cap by deferring all that money.”

3. Evolution of Offensive Linemen Techniques in the NFL

Timestamp: 27:54 – 29:09

Key Points:

• Decline in Technical Training: Joe Thomas discusses the decline in comprehensive technical training for offensive linemen at the high school and college levels. He observes, “They just don't have to feel sorry for those guys... They’re just fine guys,” highlighting a shift towards more athleticism but less technical proficiency.

• Impact on NFL Performance: The panel debates how this change affects NFL performance, noting that while players are stronger and faster, the lack of diverse blocking techniques may hinder their adaptability in complex offensive schemes.

Notable Quote:

Joe Thomas [27:54]: “It's a much more wide-open game in college and in high school especially. [...] They don't have those pro-style catalog of techniques that they used to.”

4. Quarterback Slide Rules and Potential NFL Rule Changes

Timestamp: 35:22 – 38:48

Key Points:

• Current Slide Mechanics: The discussion centers on the mechanics of quarterback slides and the ambiguities in officiating that could lead to exploits. Joe Thomas explains the challenges defensive players face due to unclear slide intentions: “They want change. What will change look like for energy? Drill baby.”

• Proposed Rule Adjustments: Thomas advocates for clear penalties for quarterbacks who perform "fake slides" or deceive defenders, suggesting a model similar to the NBA’s flopping rules. He emphasizes the need for the NFL to refine how slides are officiated to protect quarterbacks effectively.

• Safety Concerns: The conversation underscores the importance of quarterback safety and the role of official rule changes in mitigating injuries from deceptive plays.

Notable Quotes:

Joe Thomas [35:22]: "The NFL absolutely has to make a change with how they officiate the roughing the passer... to protect the quarterback.”

Tom Verducci [38:02]: “Is that legal? Is that legal?”

5. Interactive Segments and Fun Sports Trivia

Timestamp: 40:07 – End

Key Points:

• Sports History Trivia: The hosts share memorable sports moments, including Kobe Bryant scoring 81 points and Fidel Castro’s ejection from a baseball game, adding a nostalgic and entertaining element to the show.

• Audience Interaction: Callers contribute to the discussion, sharing their thoughts on Hall of Fame candidates and other sports-related queries. This interactive segment enhances listener engagement and provides diverse perspectives.

• Poll Results: The hosts reveal poll outcomes, such as 92% of listeners favoring public Hall of Fame ballots and a tied vote (50-50) on which coach needs a Super Bowl ring more between Nick Sirianni and Jalen Hurts.

Notable Quote:

Joe Thomas [26:14]: “I'll allow you to call me the Cal Ripken of all of the NFL if that's what you want to do.”

Conclusion

This episode of The Dan Patrick Show offers a rich blend of in-depth analysis, expert opinions, and interactive fun. The discussions on Hall of Fame voting transparency, the financial strategies of MLB teams, the evolution of offensive linemen techniques, and the intricacies of quarterback slide rules provide listeners with valuable insights into the complexities of professional sports. Additionally, the engaging trivia and interaction with callers add a relatable and entertaining layer to the show, making it a must-listen for sports aficionados.

Notable Quotes Repository:

• Dan Patrick [06:56]: "Ichiro, to me, is a no-brainer... I like you, I would like to know what it was."
• Tom Verducci [12:50]: “They're playing by the rules, as you said... I think it's good for the game.”
• Dan Patrick [14:36]: “There's no way that they should just be able to circumvent the salary cap by deferring all that money.”
• Joe Thomas [27:54]: “It's a much more wide-open game in college and in high school especially. [...] They don't have those pro-style catalog of techniques that they used to.”
• Joe Thomas [35:22]: "The NFL absolutely has to make a change with how they officiate the roughing the passer... to protect the quarterback.”
• Joe Thomas [26:14]: “I'll allow you to call me the Cal Ripken of all of the NFL if that's what you want to do.”

For listeners who missed this episode, The Dan Patrick Show is available on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.