Podcast Summary: Covino & Rich - Mic This! Better MLB Content Needed?
The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Release Date: June 11, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, hosts Covino and Rich delve into the controversial topic of Major League Baseball (MLB) players being mic'd up during games. The discussion centers around whether this practice enhances the viewing experience or unduly distracts players from their performance on the field.

The Controversy of Mic'd Up Players

Covino opens the discussion by expressing his frustration with players being interviewed mid-game. He states,

“I hate when they interview these players. [12:15] It's a lot of pressure.”

Covino argues that MLB players are already under immense pressure to perform, and adding the burden of answering broadcaster questions on live television can detract from their focus and performance.

Rich concurs, adding his perspective:

“You think these professional baseball players who have contracts on the line and games to play for want to be interviewed in that moment? [13:05] No, absolutely not.”

Case Study: Jazz Chisholm’s Mic'd Up Moment

The hosts reference a specific incident involving Jazz Chisholm, a player who was mic'd up during a pivotal game. Chisholm was asked about comments from Hunter Dobbins, leading to a moment of distraction that resulted in an error on the field.

Covino remarks,

“They asked him about Hunter Dobbins mid-play, and he made an error during the interview. [25:40] I knew it was bound to happen one day.”

Rich echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the potential negative impacts:

“If you're really rooting for the guy, you don't want to distract him while he's playing a professional game. [26:10] It’s just unnecessary pressure.”

The Pressure and Performance Debate

The conversation shifts to the broader implications of mic'd up interviews on player performance. Covino points out,

“Players are trying to play a game, and you’re giving them extra pressure by making them answer personal questions. [28:30] It’s intrusive.”

Rich adds,

“Imagine if they asked a quarterback about his favorite breakfast in the middle of a tight game. [29:00] That’s just distracting.”

The hosts compare MLB's approach to other sports, noting that while NASCAR and the NFL occasionally mic up players, it's often during less critical moments or for specific segments, not during high-stakes gameplay.

Listener and Caller Perspectives

Throughout the episode, Covino and Rich engage with live callers who largely support their stance against mic'd up interviews during games. One caller mentions,

“I hate when my barber is interrupted by someone selling a phone plan. [31:45] It should be the same with players.”

Another adds,

“You don’t want to hear Aaron Judge talking in the middle of the inning. [32:20] Just let him concentrate on the game.”

These listener insights reinforce the hosts' arguments that mic'd up interviews can be detrimental to both player performance and the overall quality of the game.

Comparisons to Other Sports

Covino draws parallels with other sports to highlight the inconsistency in mic'ing up players:

“NASCAR drivers do interviews during caution periods, not while they're actively racing. [34:00] Why can’t MLB do the same?”

Rich agrees, noting that when mic'd up interactions are controlled and timely, they can add value without impacting the game:

“It’s about timing. Post-game or halftime interviews are one thing, but in-game interviews are another. [34:45] They disrupt the flow.”

Potential Risks and Future Implications

The hosts discuss the potential risks associated with in-game interviews. Covino warns,

“What if a mic'd up player gets into an argument on air? [36:10] That could escalate and lead to bigger issues.”

Rich adds,

“Or worse, a distracted player makes a game-changing error. [36:40] That’s a risk we shouldn’t take.”

They ponder the future of MLB content, advocating for content that enhances rather than hinders the game experience.

“We need better MLB content that respects the players and the integrity of the game. [38:00] Mic'ing up players mid-game is a step backward.”

Conclusion

Covino and Rich conclude the episode by reiterating their stance against mic'd up interviews during live MLB games. They advocate for alternative content strategies that engage fans without compromising player focus and game quality.

Rich sums it up with a final thought,

“Let the players do what they do best without unnecessary distractions. [40:15] That’s what the fans want and deserve.”

Covino agrees,

“Better content means better games and happier fans. [40:30] Let’s prioritize what truly matters.”

Notable Quotes

• Covino: “I hate when they interview these players. [12:15] It's a lot of pressure.”
• Rich: “You think these professional baseball players who have contracts on the line and games to play for want to be interviewed in that moment? [13:05] No, absolutely not.”
• Covino: “They asked him about Hunter Dobbins mid-play, and he made an error during the interview. [25:40] I knew it was bound to happen one day.”
• Rich: “If you're really rooting for the guy, you don't want to distract him while he's playing a professional game. [26:10] It’s just unnecessary pressure.”
• Listener Caller: “I hate when my barber is interrupted by someone selling a phone plan. [31:45] It should be the same with players.”
• Rich: “You don’t want to hear Aaron Judge talking in the middle of the inning. [32:20] Just let him concentrate on the game.”
• Covino: “NASCAR drivers do interviews during caution periods, not while they're actively racing. [34:00] Why can’t MLB do the same?”
• Covino: “What if a mic'd up player gets into an argument on air? [36:10] That could escalate and lead to bigger issues.”
• Rich: “Or worse, a distracted player makes a game-changing error. [36:40] That’s a risk we shouldn’t take.”
• Rich: “Let the players do what they do best without unnecessary distractions. [40:15] That’s what the fans want and deserve.”
• Covino: “Better content means better games and happier fans. [40:30] Let’s prioritize what truly matters.”

Final Thoughts

Covino and Rich make a compelling case against the current trend of mic'ing up MLB players during games. Their arguments emphasize the importance of maintaining player focus and preserving the integrity of the game. By sharing personal insights, listener feedback, and real-world examples, they advocate for a more thoughtful approach to enhancing sports content that benefits both players and fans alike.

For those interested in the full discussion, tune into The Herd with Colin Cowherd on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or your preferred podcast platform.