Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – "The Best Of Covino & Rich" (Released December 11, 2024)

The Herd with Colin Cowherd presents its episode titled "The Best Of Covino & Rich," hosted by Steve Covino and Rich Davis under the umbrella of iHeartPodcasts and The Volume. This episode delves deep into current sports narratives, offering insightful discussions, spirited debates, and candid opinions on some of the most talked-about topics in the sports world.

1. Juan Soto’s Move to the New York Mets

The episode kicks off with an intense discussion about Juan Soto's surprising decision to join the New York Mets over the Yankees. Covino and Davis dissect the multifaceted reasons behind Soto's choice, emphasizing financial motivations and team dynamics.

• Financial Considerations and Suite Negotiations

  Covino highlights the financial negotiations that may have influenced Soto’s decision:
  “He said, I want a suite for my family... based on my research, Rich, suites could be about $25,000 a game, totaling $20 million in perks over the 16-year offer they gave him.” ([06:38])

• Critique of Soto’s Character and Team Chemistry

  The hosts express skepticism about Soto’s character, suggesting that his high demands could disrupt team chemistry:
  “He's a diva with crazy demands. When you're paying someone this much and rolling out the red carpet, you expect him to produce when he doesn't.” ([07:55])

• Comparisons with Other Yankees Players

  Comparing Soto to established Yankees stars like Aaron Judge, Covino argues that Soto's expectations are excessive:
  “You can tell me this guy's above them.” ([07:55])

2. Mark Gastineau and the New “30 for 30” Documentary

A significant portion of the episode centers on Mark Gastineau, the former New York Jets defensive legend, and his portrayal in the upcoming ESPN “30 for 30” documentary titled "The New York Sack Exchange."

• Gastineau’s Sack Record Controversy

  Covino and Davis debate the legitimacy of Gastineau's sack record and the infamous play involving Brett Favre and Michael Strahan:
  “Gastineau has sour grapes about the whole situation. Baseball is a team sport... How much he brings to the team when he gets all this specialty treatment.” ([13:17])

• Emotional and Psychological Impact

  The discussion delves into Gastineau’s prolonged resentment over losing his sack record and its impact on his legacy:
  “He wants the sack back. All these guys are excited about playing with him, but he seems like a very selfish player.” ([15:00])

• Fan and Media Reactions

  The hosts reflect on how Gastineau's actions have been received by fans and the media, questioning his motivations and character flaws:
  “He's above the Mets. That's what made the team magical last year.” ([18:28])

3. Major League Baseball Updates

The hosts provide a roundup of the latest MLB news, including significant player movements and contracts.

• Max Freed’s Historic Contract with the Yankees

  Dan Beyer announces Max Freed’s unprecedented eight-year, $218 million deal with the New York Yankees, marking the largest guarantee ever for a left-handed pitcher:
  “Max Freed, eight years, $218 million deal.” ([34:07])

• Trades and Draft Lottery

  Updates include the Toronto Blue Jays acquiring second baseman Andres Jimenez from the Cleveland Guardians and the Nationals winning the draft lottery to secure the first overall pick in the 2025 MLB draft.

4. NBA Insights and Player Motivations

The episode transitions to NBA discussions, focusing on Nikola Jokić’s comments post a series-defining game.

• Jokić’s Performance and Motivation

  Jokić’s frustration after a high-scoring but ultimately losing effort is analyzed, with Covino and Davis debating the implications of his statements on player motivation:
  “Jokic scored career high 56 and finished the game with just two assists... It’s how you motivate people in sports.” ([68:26])

• Incentive-Based Contracts Debate

  The hosts advocate for performance-based contracts, arguing that they could enhance player effort and accountability:
  “If you had incentive-based contracts, you’d see people really trying to push to get ahead because they're in control of their destiny and their money.” ([72:25])

5. Interactive Segments and Games

Throughout the episode, Covino and Davis engage listeners with interactive segments, including sports trivia games like "Last One Standing." These segments not only entertain but also reinforce listener engagement by involving them in live discussions and competitions.

• “Last One Standing” Trivia Game

  The hosts facilitate a fast-paced trivia game, challenging each other's sports knowledge and keeping the energy high:
  “Each contestant is going to get five seconds to stay alive in the round. If you run out of time or you answer incorrectly, Iowa Sam will escort you out.” ([61:07])

Conclusion

"The Best Of Covino & Rich" delivers a robust exploration of contemporary sports issues, blending analytical discourse with lively banter. From Juan Soto’s high-stakes team decision and Mark Gastineau’s legacy struggles to the intricacies of MLB contracts and NBA player motivations, Covino and Davis provide listeners with a comprehensive and engaging commentary on the sports landscape. Interactive segments like trivia games further enhance the episode’s appeal, making it both informative and entertaining for sports enthusiasts.

Notable Quotes:

• “He said, I want a suite for my family...” – Steve Covino ([06:38])
• “He's a diva with crazy demands.” – Steve Covino ([07:55])
• “He wants the sack back.” – Dan Beyer ([15:00])
• “If you had incentive-based contracts, you’d see people really trying to push to get ahead...” – Dan Beyer ([72:25])

This summary encapsulates the core discussions and highlights from the episode, providing a clear and comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened to the full podcast.