Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – "Best of The Herd"

Release Date: August 1, 2025
Host: Colin Cowherd (iHeartPodcasts and The Volume)

Introduction

In the "Best of The Herd" episode, Colin Cowherd and his co-hosts, Covino and Rich Davis, delve into a dynamic discussion centered primarily around the resurgence of baseball's popularity amidst the ongoing NFL season. The episode is punctuated with engaging listener interactions, sports analysis, and light-hearted segments that showcase the hosts' chemistry and deep knowledge of the sports landscape.

Baseball’s Resurgence: Everything is Back and Better

Kavino: "Baseball is doing everything it should be doing." [07:14]

Colin Cowherd: "Baseball's doing, to quote Charlie Sheen in the 2000s, winning." [07:29]

The hosts kick off the episode with an enthusiastic discussion on how baseball has regained its footing and captivated audiences once again. They attribute this resurgence to several strategic changes and cultural shifts within the sport:

1. Rule Adjustments and Pace of Play:

   • Implementation of the pitch clock and other measures to expedite the game.
   • Colin Cowherd notes, "They made the game quicker. That really did help." [08:01]

2. Star Power and Market Appeal:

   • Emergence of young superstars like Shohei Ohtani, Aaron Judge, Fernando Tatis Jr., and Bryce Harper.
   • The presence of major market teams such as the Mets, Yankees, and Dodgers in playoff races adds excitement.
   • Kavino states, "Baseball's doing, to quote Charlie Sheen in the 2000s, winning." [07:27]

3. Engaging Playoffs and Trade Deadlines:

   • Last year's exciting playoff series set the stage for heightened interest.
   • The recent trade deadline is highlighted as one of the most thrilling in history.
   • Colin Cowherd shares, "Tim Chian said yesterday's trade deadline may have been the craziest, most exciting he's ever been a part of in his career." [09:30]

4. Enhanced Fan Experience:

   • Introduction of City Connect jerseys and personalized stadium experiences.
   • Innovative in-stadium entertainment, including light shows and themed events.
   • Kavino remarks, "When the Dodgers get a double and they do their silly little dance on second base... that type of celebration stands out." [13:13]

5. Baseball Cards and Merchandising:

   • The revival of baseball card collecting among younger fans.
   • Special edition cards and unboxing trends on social media contribute to the sport's appeal.
   • Colin Cowherd credits, "Baseball cards have something to do with it, believe it or not, because these kids are going wild about it." [11:56]

Listener Interaction: Chipotle Worker or WNBA Player

Kavino: "Do you know your WNBA players?" [55:50]

In an interactive segment, Colin, Covino, and Rich engage listeners with a game titled "Chipotle Worker or WNBA Player." The hosts present names of individuals, and they must guess whether the person is a WNBA athlete or a Chipotle employee. This segment not only entertains but also highlights the hosts' familiarity with both the WNBA and everyday workers, fostering a connection with a diverse audience.

• Example Interaction:
  • Covino: "Chipotle worker or WNBA player? Emma Cannon."
  • Rich Davis: "Emma Cannon is a 6'2" forward for the LA Sparks." [57:57]
  • Colin Cowherd: "Got you, Daniel. Yes, she is." [58:21]

Listeners have the chance to win prizes by correctly identifying the individuals, adding an element of excitement and engagement to the show.

NFL Discussions: Balancing Baseball and Football

Colin Cowherd: "If you're not a fan of our show Monday through Friday, what's wrong with you?" [24:06]

While baseball takes center stage, the hosts also address NFL-related topics, comparing the two sports' current popularity. They discuss quarterback performances, team strategies, and forecast potential outcomes for the NFL season.

1. Quarterback Spotlight:

   • Discussion on emerging QBs like Trey Lance and Dylan Gabriel.
   • Colin Cowherd expresses hope for Trey Lance's improvement, "Hope you had a Trey Lance sort of night." [06:32]

2. Team Performance and Expectations:

   • Analysis of teams like the Cleveland Browns, Tennessee Titans, and Houston Texans.
   • Covino underscores the importance of low expectations for rookie QBs like Cam Ward, "The fact that Cam Ward is not being talked about. There's no hype train." [39:21]

3. Comparative Popularity:

   • Rich Davis points out, "Our afternoon drive show is 80% NFL." [24:58]
   • However, the resurgence of baseball is highlighted as overshadowing typical NFL discussions.

Enhanced Fan Engagement and Stadium Experience

Kavino: "Every stadium now has some type of race. It's no longer just the fifth inning." [16:39]

The hosts emphasize the transformation of the fan experience at baseball games:

• Interactive Games and Entertainment:

  • Sausage races, light shows, and fan participation events.
  • Collaborations with entertainment groups like the Savannah Bananas to elevate in-stadium festivities.

• Culinary Innovations:

  • Personalized food options reflecting local tastes, such as barbecue stations and Chick-fil-A offerings.
  • Colin Cowherd notes, "Baseball parks have stepped up the food to the next level." [18:26]

These enhancements contribute to making baseball games more family-friendly and entertaining, attracting a broader audience.

Cultural and Social Commentary

Angela Rye: "Rest is certainly a form of self-care, but if you are watching your neighbors starve, not be able to pay bills, your rest is selfish." [31:12]

In addition to sports, the episode features brief interludes with guest co-host Angela Rye from "Native Land Pod," discussing societal issues and encouraging listeners to stay informed and take action. These moments provide a balanced perspective, addressing the intersection of sports with broader cultural and political conversations.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Colin Cowherd: "Baseball's back in a big way... The next 50 games, it's going to be electric." [24:35]

Wrapping up the episode, Colin, Covino, and Rich reiterate their excitement for the ongoing baseball season, emphasizing that the sport's revitalization is evident and enduring. They encourage listeners to stay engaged, participate in upcoming shows, and continue supporting their favorite teams.

• Upcoming Segments:
  • Weekend Hobnobbin: Recommendations on what to watch over the weekend in sports and entertainment.
  • Prize Giveaways: Opportunities for listeners to win prizes through interactive games.

Notable Quotes

• Colin Cowherd [08:01]: "They made the game quicker. That really did help."
• Kavino [07:29]: "Baseball should be winning on August 1st."
• Rich Davis [09:30]: "Yesterday's trade deadline may have been the craziest, most exciting he's ever been a part of in his career."
• Kavino [13:13]: "When the Dodgers get a double and they do their silly little dance on second base... that type of celebration stands out."

Final Remarks

The "Best of The Herd" episode effectively captures the hosts' enthusiasm for baseball's comeback, providing insightful analysis and engaging content that appeals to both die-hard fans and casual listeners. Through a blend of sports commentary, interactive segments, and cultural discussions, Colin Cowherd and his team deliver a comprehensive and entertaining podcast experience.

For more insights and live discussions, tune into "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" every weekday on Fox Sports Radio and the iHeartRadio app.