Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd

Episode: Hour 2 - Would Pete Rose Want This?
Release Date: May 14, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

Introduction

The episode kicks off with the hosts, Steve Covino, Rich Davis, Dan Byer, and Jason Stewart, briefly promoting their show and encouraging listeners to tune in live or stream through the iHeartRadio app. The initial moments are filled with light banter and promotional content, which the summary will omit to focus on the core discussions.

Major Topic: Reinstatement of Pete Rose and Shoeless Joe Jackson

Breaking News Announcement

At [02:18], Rich Davis shares breaking news that MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has removed Pete Rose and Shoeless Joe Jackson from the league's permanently ineligible list, effectively reinstating them. Rich reflects on the historical significance, especially regarding Shoeless Joe Jackson's legacy:

“Shoeless Joe Jackson, legend. We know the story. We've seen. Feel the dreams.” — Rich Davis [02:48]

Historical Context and Reactions

The discussion delves into the implications of this decision, comparing it to the infamous Black Sox scandal depicted in the movie Eight Men Out. Dan Byer references the historical context:

“Most of them are Black Sox that played with Shoeless Joe Jackson. The guys with the shoes.” — Dan Byer [04:25]

Rich questions the timing and rationale behind the reinstatement, given that Shoeless Joe Jackson has been deceased for over 70 years:

“He was no threat 71 years ago, but now we announce it. I guess better late than never.” — Rich Davis [14:36]

Policy and Hall of Fame Implications

Spot (Jason Stewart) explains that the reinstatement policy moves these players into the Baseball Hall of Fame’s consideration:

“The Historical Overview Committee will develop a ballot of eight names for the Classic Baseball Era Committee to vote on when it next meets in December of 2027.” — Spot [06:13]

Rich expresses skepticism about the decision, comparing it to posthumous exonerations that hold no real impact:

“They still spent their life in prison. What difference does it make after they're dead? None.” — Rich Davis [28:00]

Public Sentiment and Listener Reactions

Phone Call Segment

Several callers express their opinions on the reinstatement. Bruno voices strong opposition, emphasizing the perceived hypocrisy in MLB’s stance on gambling:

“They shouldn't put him in posthumously. It really isn't right.” — Caller Bruno [18:41]

Another caller, Corbin, supports the reinstatement and praises Pete Rose’s legacy:

“I was so happy when I heard the news today about all this... I think he should be in.” — Caller Corbin [21:14]

The hosts collectively agree that the decision feels disingenuous and question the timing, especially since Pete Rose has long been deceased.

Host Reflections

Rich Davis highlights the irony of MLB’s move given the current landscape of legalized sports gambling, which he’s personally engaged in:

“Look how Rich just started off this segment. How much fun he's having gambling on baseball.” — Rich Davis [06:42]

Dan Byer adds to the conversation by comparing the MLB’s decision to outdated punitive measures:

“It's a weird announcement. It just does nothing for Pete Rose or the other guys.” — Dan Byer [28:05]

Nicknaming Fun and Light-hearted Banter

Amidst the heavy discussion, the hosts engage in a playful segment where they attempt to create old-school baseball nicknames for each other. This lightens the mood and showcases their camaraderie:

“Chatterbox Davis. It’s almost a nostalgia thing.” — Rich Davis [08:18]

Trivia Segment: Shaq Diesel Trivia

The episode transitions into an entertaining trivia segment featuring Shaquille O'Neal as a special guest. Contestants Corbin and others participate, answering questions related to basketball and sports trivia. Highlights include:

• Question Example:

  “In the Knicks Celtics series, how many of their first 103 point attempts did the Celtics miss? A82, B75 or C67?”
  Corbin answers B75 correctly at [35:30].

• Shaq’s Remarks:

  “I've been ready, but you had me sitting around waiting.” — Shaquille O'Neal [34:57]

The segment concludes with Corbin winning the trivia round, earning a prize:

“Great job, Corbin. Two in a row for the W.” — Steve Covino [37:33]

Additional Sports Updates and Discussions

The hosts provide updates on various sports events, including:

• NBA: Jason Tatum’s Achilles surgery and the implications for the Celtics’ playoff run.
• MLB: Schedule changes with postponed games and updates on player statuses.
• NFL: Upcoming international games featuring the Vikings and Steelers.

Dan Byer humorously laments the lack of attention to his favored team, the 49ers:

“I feel insulted. Not from you. I'm saying in general, is the sentiment that they're, they've fallen off.” — Dan Byer [29:00]

Closing Remarks and Promotions

As the episode winds down, the hosts briefly mention upcoming events, including a party in Las Vegas from June 20th to 22nd, and tease future shows and segments. They also perform brief promotional reads for Express Employment Professionals and Travis Matthew Apparel, which are part of their regular sponsorship segments.

Conclusion

The episode primarily revolves around the controversial reinstatement of Pete Rose and Shoeless Joe Jackson to MLB’s eligible list, sparking intense discussion among the hosts and their listeners. Balancing this heavy topic, the podcast incorporates light-hearted segments like trivia and nickname creation, providing a well-rounded and engaging listening experience for both regular fans and new listeners.

Notable Quotes:

• Rich Davis [02:48]: “Shoeless Joe Jackson, legend. We know the story. We've seen. Feel the dreams.”
• Dan Byer [04:25]: “Most of them are Black Sox that played with Shoeless Joe Jackson. The guys with the shoes.”
• Rich Davis [14:36]: “He was no threat 71 years ago, but now we announce it. I guess better late than never.”
• Caller Bruno [18:41]: “They shouldn't put him in posthumously. It really isn't right.”
• Caller Corbin [21:14]: “I was so happy when I heard the news today about all this... I think he should be in.”
• Rich Davis [28:00]: “They still spent their life in prison. What difference does it make after they're dead? None.”

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and interactions from the episode, providing a clear and engaging overview for those who haven't listened to the podcast.