Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: Hour 2 - Bradley Beal to Clippers, A.J. Pierzynski
Release Date: July 16, 2025
Host: Colin Cowherd
Platform: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

Introduction

In this engaging episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, host Colin Cowherd delves into a variety of sports topics, ranging from NBA player transactions to in-depth discussions on baseball catchers and recent changes in MLB's All-Star Game. Featuring insights from guest A.J. Pierzynski, a seasoned baseball analyst, the hour-long segment offers listeners a rich tapestry of current sports narratives and expert opinions.

NBA News: Bradley Beal Joins the Clippers

The episode kicks off with breaking news about Bradley Beal transitioning from the Phoenix Suns to the Los Angeles Clippers. Colin and his co-host debate the impact of this move on both teams.

• Co-host: "Bradley Beal at $5 million a year for the Clippers might be one of the best deals in the league." (36:56)
• Colin Cowherd: "They're a good bench, and with James Harden and Kawhi Leonard, they have a strong postseason presence." (36:53)

The discussion highlights Beal's performance issues in Phoenix, including health concerns and team dynamics, contrasting it with the Clippers' potential to maximize his skills in a more supportive environment.

MLB Insights: The Evolution of the Catcher Role

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around the role of the catcher in modern baseball, featuring expert analysis from A.J. Pierzynski.

• A.J. Pierzynski: "The idea of being a catcher today is not as daunting as it was in the '70s and '80s with AstroTurf." (03:08)
• Colin Cowherd: "Cal Raleigh is one of the best, leading the league in home runs despite the physical demands of catching." (12:59)

They explore how advancements in equipment and playing conditions have transformed the catcher role, allowing players like Cal Raleigh to excel offensively while managing the grueling defensive responsibilities.

MLB All-Star Game: ABS System and Pitch Clock Implementation

The hosts discuss recent changes to the MLB All-Star Game, focusing on the introduction of the ABS (Automated Ball-Strike) system and the pitch clock.

• A.J. Pierzynski: "The ABS system was a success last night. It's awesome and feels interactive, much like engaging with technology in a museum." (25:02)
• Colin Cowherd: "The pitch clock has sped up the game without taking away from the traditional elements that make baseball charming." (10:06)

They commend the quick decision-making enabled by the ABS system and the positive reception of the pitch clock among players and fans, noting improvements in game pace and viewer engagement.

NFL Analysis: Top 10 Wide Receivers and Team Dynamics

Shifting focus to football, Colin and his co-host evaluate the newly released list of the top 10 NFL wide receivers, scrutinizing the rankings based on executive, coach, and scout opinions.

• Co-host: "I take A.J. Brown over Tyreek Hill because of the latter's off-field distractions." (28:18)
• Colin Cowherd: "Puka Nuku should be in there, but the list favors Garrett Wilson due to team dynamics and quarterback performance." (29:27)

The analysis covers the merits and shortcomings of players like A.J. Brown, Tyreek Hill, and Garrett Wilson, emphasizing the importance of team fit and consistent performance in evaluating top-tier wide receivers.

College Football: NIL Deals and the Transfer Portal

A heated discussion unfolds around the impact of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals and the transfer portal on college football, featuring strategic insights from both hosts.

• Co-host: "Players getting comfortable with $200k a year in college is smart business, considering the short shelf life of an NFL career." (32:14)
• Colin Cowherd: "LSU and USC jumping into the transfer portal headfirst have led to underperformance despite initial hype." (34:00)

They debate the sustainability of relying heavily on transfer players versus developing homegrown talent, highlighting potential pitfalls for programs like Clemson and the strategic advantages for others like Penn State and Texas.

Yankees' Trade Deadline Moves

The hosts speculate on potential moves by the New York Yankees as the trade deadline approaches, analyzing the team's needs and possible acquisitions.

• Co-host: "The Yankees need to change some things, especially in their bullpen, to compete more effectively." (13:55)
• Colin Cowherd: "Adding Devin Williams with more speed could help them move away from a home-run-heavy strategy." (14:40)

They discuss the Yankees' current pitching strengths and weaknesses, proposing that strategic trades could bolster their postseason prospects.

MLB Home Run Derby and Player Performance

Reflecting on the recent Home Run Derby, Colin and A.J. Pierzynski express their opinions on player performances and potential changes to the format.

• A.J. Pierzynski: "It would have been awesome to see matchups like Shohei Ohtani vs. Aaron Judge for better fan engagement." (10:48)
• Colin Cowherd: "Schwarber hitting three homers shows his consistency, but integrating top hitters could elevate the event." (17:00)

They advocate for more exciting head-to-head competitions to maintain viewer interest and enhance the spectacle of the Derby.

Conclusion

Wrapping up the episode, Colin and his co-host reiterate key insights from their discussions, emphasizing the evolving dynamics in both baseball and football. They encourage listeners to stay tuned for more in-depth analysis and upcoming sports news in future episodes.

Notable Quotes

• A.J. Pierzynski on Modern Catchers:
  "The idea of being a catcher today is not as daunting as it was in the '70s and '80s with AstroTurf." (03:08)

• Colin Cowherd on the Pitch Clock:
  "The pitch clock has sped up the game without taking away from the traditional elements that make baseball charming." (10:06)

• Co-host on Bradley Beal's Move:
  "Bradley Beal at $5 million a year for the Clippers might be one of the best deals in the league." (36:56)

• A.J. Pierzynski on ABS System:
  "The ABS system was a success last night. It's awesome and feels interactive, much like engaging with technology in a museum." (25:02)

Timestamps Reference

• 03:08 – Discussion on modern catcher roles.
• 10:06 – Introduction and benefits of the pitch clock.
• 12:59 – Cal Raleigh's performance and potential.
• 13:55 – Yankees' pitching needs.
• 14:40 – Analysis of Yankees' strategy.
• 17:00 – Home Run Derby feedback.
• 25:02 – ABS system evaluation.
• 28:18 – Top 10 NFL wide receivers debate.
• 29:27 – Further discussion on wide receivers.
• 32:14 – College football NIL deals.
• 34:00 – Transfer portal impact on teams.
• 36:56 – Bradley Beal's move to Clippers.

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the episode, providing listeners who missed the podcast with a detailed overview of the discussions, insights, and expert opinions shared by Colin Cowherd and his guest A.J. Pierzynski.