Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Hour 2: Shohei Ohtani and the Dodgers
Release Date: March 19, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
1. Introduction to Hour Two
Colin Cowherd kicks off the second hour by setting the stage for discussions on the ongoing sports seasons, with a particular focus on Major League Baseball’s Dodgers and the phenomenal Shohei Ohtani. He briefly touches on upcoming NCAA tournament excitement, hinting at extensive bracket analysis and insights into March Madness.
2. NCAA Tournament and March Madness Preview
Timestamp: 02:23 – 03:05
Colin and his co-host AJ Pierzynski discuss the NCAA tournament's potential outcomes. Colin expresses skepticism about traditional powerhouses like Duke winning, suggesting that more experienced teams, particularly from the SEC, might outperform expectations.
Notable Quote:
Colin Cowherd: "Not that anybody cares. You're going with traditional Duke, which very young. Remember we've seen these great young Duke teams with young star players and they don't win the tournament." [03:03]
3. Major League Baseball Focus: Dodgers and Shohei Ohtani
a. Dodgers' Season Start and Roster Depth
Timestamp: 03:07 – 06:54
Colin highlights the Dodgers' impressive start to the baseball season, emphasizing their depth and the integration of Shohei Ohtani into the lineup. AJ Pierzynski elaborates on the Dodgers' pitching strength, noting key additions like Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates, which bolster their bullpen and overall performance.
Notable Quotes:
AJ Pierzynski: "This team is ridiculously loaded. They have the deepest team in baseball." [06:02]
Colin Cowherd: "They're just watching an all-time great Dodger lineup." [05:15]
b. Shohei Ohtani’s Impact and Skillset
Timestamp: 06:57 – 08:23
The conversation shifts to Shohei Ohtani, with AJ praising his unparalleled athleticism and versatility. They discuss Ohtani’s speed, pitching prowess, and ability to influence the game both on the mound and at the plate.
Notable Quotes:
Colin Cowherd: "I think an underrated part of him is his speed... he's a grinder, he's watching film." [07:38]
AJ Pierzynski: "He is an unbelievable talent, something that we'll probably...never see what he can do again." [07:38]
c. Team Chemistry and Player Mindset
Timestamp: 08:23 – 09:58
AJ emphasizes the Dodgers' selfless team culture, highlighting players like Freddie Freeman, Mookie Betts, and Will Smith, who prioritize team success over individual accolades. Colin raises concerns about potential ego issues due to the high salaries but is reassured by AJ’s insights into the players' dedication to winning.
Notable Quotes:
AJ Pierzynski: "They are the most selfless team I've ever been around. All they want to do is win." [09:15]
Colin Cowherd: "Another team can win it?" [09:58]
4. National Basketball Association (NBA) Discussions: Lakers vs. Warriors
Timestamp: 09:58 – 15:39
Colin and AJ pivot to the NBA, discussing the Lakers’ prospects in the upcoming Finals compared to the Warriors. They analyze player performances, including LeBron James’ longevity and Luka Dončić’s contributions. The conversation touches on the importance of supporting players like Austin Reeves, who provide crucial offense initiation alongside star players.
Notable Quotes:
Colin Cowherd: "I feel more confident about the Dodgers in the World Series." [13:51]
AJ Pierzynski: "It's tough. Like, he's six, seven, great handle, gets to the line." [15:53]
5. National Football League (NFL) Quarterback Analysis: Jalen Milroe
a. Evaluating Jalen Milroe’s Potential
Timestamp: 20:14 – 27:28
The discussion delves deep into NFL quarterback prospects, focusing on Jalen Milroe. Colin critiques Milroe’s physical attributes, particularly his lack of fluidity and mechanical issues, while AJ remains hopeful about his athleticism and potential under the right coaching.
Notable Quotes:
Colin Cowherd: "He's not a natural. He's a great athlete and a great kid." [24:30]
AJ Pierzynski: "I'll never forget, he was in the NCAA tournament in Oklahoma." [16:41]
b. Mock Draft Insights
Timestamp: 27:02 – 34:39
AJ shares insights from Joel Klatt’s mock draft, highlighting picks like Cam Ward, Travis Hunter, and Jalen Milroe. Colin provides counterpoints, suggesting alternative team fits and emphasizing the importance of selecting the best available player.
Notable Quotes:
Colin Cowherd: "Steve Keim likes Milroe a lot... he's going to develop into a great pro." [25:13]
AJ Pierzynski: "It's like going... trying to get out of the SEC compared to the Big 12." [10:45]
6. NFL Rule Changes and Team Strategies
Timestamp: 42:12 – 47:45
Colin addresses potential NFL rule changes, such as the Packers’ proposal to prohibit pushing a quarterback from behind. He supports this change, citing safety and game aesthetics. Additionally, discussions touch on team strategies regarding quarterback usage and the implications of high-profile player decisions, like Aaron Rodgers’ potential moves.
Notable Quotes:
Colin Cowherd: "Win your division. This idea when people get upset... life's not fair." [10:20]
AJ Pierzynski: "Do you really want the Raiders and the Browns trying to draw Atlanta?" [47:28]
7. Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up
Timestamp: 47:45 – 52:06
As the episode nears its end, Colin and AJ reflect on the dynamic nature of sports, comparing historical players to current stars and discussing the evolution of gameplay strategies. They also touch on the importance of team culture and player-coach relationships in achieving success.
Notable Quotes:
Colin Cowherd: "It's unlike the Cowboy because I've said the Lakers and the Cowboys can be a bit insular." [30:10]
AJ Pierzynski: "What you're seeing now is... Jimmy Butler, so valuable, is getting to the free throw line." [15:39]
8. Conclusion
Colin Cowherd and AJ Pierzynski conclude the episode by reiterating their enthusiasm for the upcoming sports events. They emphasize the Dodgers' promising season, the Lakers' NBA Finals prospects, and the intriguing developments in the NFL quarterback landscape. Their insights provide listeners with a comprehensive overview of current sports dynamics, enriched by expert analysis and engaging dialogue.
Key Takeaways:
- Dodgers’ Dominance: The Dodgers, bolstered by Shohei Ohtani’s exceptional talents and a deep roster, are positioned as strong contenders for the World Series.
- Shohei Ohtani: Ohtani’s dual-role performance and unique athleticism make him a standout player in MLB history.
- NBA Finals Outlook: The Lakers and Warriors remain top contenders, with strategic player contributions crucial for their success.
- NFL Quarterback Prospects: Jalen Milroe emerges as a promising yet mechanically challenged quarterback, with his future heavily dependent on team fit and coaching.
- Rule Changes: Proposed NFL rule changes aim to enhance game safety and aesthetics, reflecting evolving priorities in the league.
This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd offers a detailed exploration of current sports narratives, providing valuable perspectives for fans eager to stay informed and engaged.