The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: Hour 1 - Almost a Baseball Opener Release Date: March 18, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, the focus centers on the intricacies and peculiarities surrounding the opening day of Major League Baseball (MLB). The hosts delve into the implications of scheduling a high-stakes game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs in Tokyo at an unconventional time, exploring fan reactions, team strategies, and broader impacts on the sport.

Opening Day in Tokyo: A Bold Move

The episode kicks off with a discussion about MLB's decision to host an opening day game in Tokyo, a move that has sparked mixed reactions among fans and analysts alike.

• Mark Seal [03:05]: "When you put the Dodgers and Cubs on the same field in Tokyo, you're not just playing baseball; you're making a statement about the global reach of the sport."

The scheduling of the game at 3:00 AM Eastern Time has raised questions about its accessibility for American fans and the logistical challenges it presents.

• Covino [04:06]: "Nobody here in the States watched it really. But hey, it was a nice win to start off the season. A wasted opener in my opinion."

Dodgers vs. Cubs: Game Insights and Analysis

The hosts provide a detailed analysis of the Dodgers' performance against the Cubs, highlighting key moments that defined the game.

• Mark Seal [05:04]: "You know, 4 to 1 win over the Cubs. Congrats to the Dodgers. World champs again."

They discuss the strategic decisions made by both teams and the standout performances that influenced the outcome.

• Covino [09:03]: "Nobody knows how to stop a Steph Curry just from lighting it up. The Dodgers really showed their prowess tonight."

Fan Commitment and Team Support

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around fan dedication, especially in the face of unusual circumstances like game timing.

• Mark Seal [50:21]: "I ask you this. Since the game was on at 3 am had the Dodgers lost, would you have wore your Dodgers gear?"

• Iowa Sam [50:44]: "100%. It's still opening day. Who cares if you lose the first game?"

The hosts emphasize the importance of unwavering support, regardless of game outcomes or external factors.

• Covino [51:01]: "I think as a fan, you have to rock your gear on opening day."

Yankees' Struggles and Injuries

Switching focus, the discussion shifts to the New York Yankees, highlighting their injury woes and the impact on their season prospects.

• Covino [35:27]: "You got Clark Schmidt, who's saying he can't be ready because he's claw injured. You got Giancarlo Stanton with bad elbows. How much tennis was this guy playing in the off-season?"

• Mark Seal [35:35]: "It's not looking good for the Yankees."

The hosts debate whether the Yankees can recover from their setbacks and what it means for the competitive landscape of the American League East.

• Covino [35:52]: "The Mets really have a golden opportunity to seize this moment, not only because you have Juan Soto, but because all of these stars on the Yankees don't look like they're going to be able to step up."

Dodgers Fans and Social Media Dynamics

Exploring the social aspect, the hosts comment on Dodgers fans' behavior, especially in digital spaces.

• Mark Seal [50:30]: "Anyone could be like, yeah, I'll give you a bazillion dollars if you get the bracket."

• Covino [50:32]: "We just got the best team and proud to be part of the premier sports lineup in the nation."

They touch upon the fervor and sometimes contentious interactions that occur among fan bases online.

Tracy Morgan Incident: A Sidebar

Although tangential, the hosts briefly recount the infamous incident involving Tracy Morgan vomiting courtside, using it to highlight the unpredictable nature of live sports events.

• Covino [18:26]: "I don't think enough people appreciate Astronaut Jones, one of the greatest SNL characters, in my opinion."

• Mark Seal [19:04]: "You know, it could have been worse. Imagine Tracy Morgan getting sick at the Garden, maybe I'm pregnant, created a ripple effect à la Goonies."

This segment serves as a light-hearted interlude amidst the more serious discussions about baseball.

Closing Thoughts: The Future of Opening Day

Wrapping up, the hosts ponder the future of opening day traditions and what the Tokyo game signifies for MLB's global strategy.

• Mark Seal [32:32]: "I mean, I get it. You're trying to expand the game. I don't hate it."

• Covino [35:00]: "So, as a fan, for the first time, where I'm usually really anticipating the star, I'm like, man, they're doomed."

They conclude with reflections on how these changes might shape fan experiences and the overall direction of the sport.

Notable Quotes

• Mark Seal [03:05]: "When you put the Dodgers and Cubs on the same field in Tokyo, you're not just playing baseball; you're making a statement about the global reach of the sport."

• Covino [04:06]: "Nobody here in the States watched it really. But hey, it was a nice win to start off the season. A wasted opener in my opinion."

• Mark Seal [05:04]: "You know, 4 to 1 win over the Cubs. Congrats to the Dodgers. World champs again."

• Covino [51:01]: "I think as a fan, you have to rock your gear on opening day."

• Covino [35:52]: "The Mets really have a golden opportunity to seize this moment, not only because you have Juan Soto, but because all of these stars on the Yankees don't look like they're going to be able to step up."

• Mark Seal [32:32]: "I mean, I get it. You're trying to expand the game. I don't hate it."

Conclusion

Hour 1 - Almost a Baseball Opener offers an in-depth exploration of MLB's evolving traditions, fan dynamics, and the challenges teams face at the season's outset. Through engaging discussions and insightful analysis, the hosts provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of what this opening day means for the future of baseball.

Additional Segments

While the primary focus remains on baseball, the episode features brief interludes discussing cultural moments, such as the Tracy Morgan incident and space-themed musings, adding a layer of variety and entertainment to the broadcast.

Listen Now

For those interested in a detailed and spirited examination of baseball's opening day, The Herd with Colin Cowherd offers a compelling listen. Subscribe on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or your preferred podcast platform to stay updated with all the latest sports discussions.