“Chessie’s New Toy”

Summary

The Tony Kornheiser Show: “Chessie’s New Toy” – Detailed Summary

Release Date: March 12, 2025
Host: Tony Kornheiser
Guests: Tim Kirchen, Jason Lockanfora, Chris Cilizza, Nigel, Garrett Cole

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1. Yankees’ Turmoil: Garrett Cole’s Injury and Team Implications

The episode opens with Tony Kornheiser delving into the recent challenging news for the New York Yankees—specifically focusing on Garrett Cole's injury. Tim Kirchen provides context about the Yankees' loss to Albany, emphasizing their underdog position and the potential implications for the team's future bids in the America East conference.

Tony Kornheiser (03:27): “We lost to Albany. Not by a. No. 3 3.”

Jason Lockanfora adds to the discussion by highlighting the Yankees' reliance on Garrett Cole, noting the team's struggles in valuing starting pitchers amidst injuries.

Jason Lockanfora (24:07): “He's critical now. They did sign Max Freed as a free agent... But the Yankees have lost two critical starting pieces.”

The conversation underscores the Yankees' vulnerability due to Cole's absence and questions the effectiveness of their acquisitions in filling the gap left by key pitchers.

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2. NFL Free Agency Insights

Transitioning to the realm of football, the show features an in-depth discussion on the ongoing NFL free agency. Guest Jason Lockanfora shares perspectives on potential moves, including speculation around Aaron Rodgers' future.

Snoop Dogg (39:05): “Are you really excited about what's left of this Aaron Rodgers?”

Snoop Dogg offers his take on Rodgers' prospects, debating the feasibility of his acquisition by teams like the Giants or the Steelers.

Snoop Dogg (40:58): “I think it's a fair amount of draft capital... Chances are, he has suitors, but not many that fit what he's looking for.”

The panel also touches upon other quarterbacks in the market, analyzing their performances and the strategic moves teams might consider to bolster their rosters.

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3. “Chessie’s New Toy”: Dog’s Indestructible Ball Anecdote

In a lighter segment, Nigel shares a humorous and relatable story about replacing his dog Chessie's constantly ruined toy with a new indestructible squeaky ball. The anecdote serves as a segue into a broader conversation about pet ownership and the endless cycle of replacing chewed-up toys.

Nigel (02:13): “Indestructible, Right?”

Tony Kornheiser (02:50): “She’s gonna make noise.”

The discussion highlights the universal challenges pet owners face, adding a personal touch to the show's dynamic.

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4. Tiger Woods' Injury Update and Future Prospects

Tony brings attention to the latest news regarding golf legend Tiger Woods, who has reportedly torn his Achilles and undergone surgery. The conversation explores the potential impact on Woods' career and his future in professional golf.

Tony Kornheiser (14:20): “Tiger Woods has torn his ACL and already had the surgery.”

Garrett Cole (15:02): “He’s a star-crossed figure. But I think we'll see him again because... he's digging in the dirt like he did when he played golf.”

Guests discuss whether Woods can make a comeback, referencing his legacy and the possibility of him participating in senior events or taking on an ambassadorial role within the sport.

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5. The “Seinfeld Curse” Debate

A spirited debate ensues around the notion of the "Seinfeld curse," where Tony challenges the idea that the acclaimed sitcom negatively impacted the careers of its cast members. The panelists dissect the various trajectories of actors like Jason Alexander, Michael Richards, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus post-Seinfeld.

Tony Kornheiser (09:24): “Seinfeld wasn't cursed at all. He was a comedian. He was not an actor.”

Tony Kornheiser (09:35): “All right, so now let's go through the actors... Julia Louis-Dreyfus was on Veep. Veep's hysterically funny.”

The discussion dismantles the myth, highlighting successful career paths of the cast members, particularly Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and clarifies misunderstandings about their professional choices post-show.

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6. Baseball’s Pitcher Plague: Injuries and Industry Changes

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to analyzing the growing issues with pitcher injuries in baseball. Garrett Cole and the panel discuss how the industry's evolving strategies have devalued starting pitchers, leading to increased injuries and a reliance on relievers.

Garrett Cole (27:31): “We need to return the value of the starting pitcher. If the DH is involved in this... I'm all in favor of trying it.”

Tony Kornheiser (28:32): “Can you limit roster spots? Instead of 12 and 13 pitchers on the roster, can you go to eight or nine?”

The conversation touches on potential solutions, such as reducing the number of pitchers on rosters to prevent overuse, and critiques the current management strategies that prioritize relief pitchers over starters, ultimately leading to a decline in pitcher health and performance.

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7. Listener Interactions and Emails

Throughout the episode, Tony engages with listener emails, sharing personal stories and humorous exchanges. Notably, listener Tim Kirchhen contributes a comedic piece titled "Potato Chips and Wine," blending humor with relatable content.

Tim Kirchhen (63:54): “My baby took all I had, Every penny, every dime, Left me with nothing but potato chips and wine...”

These interactions add a community feel to the show, showcasing the diverse range of topics and humor that resonate with the audience.

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8. Botanical Musings: Daffodils and Crocuses

In a reflective moment, Tony muses about the appearance of daffodils and crocuses, drawing parallels between their resilience and broader life themes.

Tony Kornheiser (13:42): “Daffodils and crocuses or is it croci or crocuses? They are incredibly hardy...”

This segment offers a brief respite from the intense sports discussions, providing listeners with a thoughtful and picturesque commentary on springtime flora.

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9. Musical Interlude: “Potato Chips and Wine”

Tim Kirchhen presents an original piece titled "Potato Chips and Wine," blending whimsical lyrics with a catchy melody. The segment is met with praise from both guests and listeners.

Tony Kornheiser (38:06): “Genius.”

The musical interlude serves as an entertaining break, showcasing the creative talents within the show's community.

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10. Closing Remarks and Upcoming Highlights

As the episode draws to a close, Tony reflects on the day's discussions, reiterates key points, and previews upcoming topics. He encourages listeners to engage with the show’s content across various platforms and acknowledges contributions from the audience.

Tony Kornheiser (50:43): “Is everybody wet? Just you're submerged. Jeremy Vince so great.”

Tony Kornheiser (57:19): “You ought to get more money.”

The episode concludes with humorous exchanges and heartfelt thank-yous, reinforcing the show's engaging and personable atmosphere.

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Conclusion

“Chessie’s New Toy” offers a comprehensive blend of sports analysis, personal anecdotes, humor, and community engagement. Tony Kornheiser and his guests provide insightful commentary on current sports issues, particularly highlighting challenges within the Yankees and the broader landscape of baseball pitching. The episode balances intense discussions with lighter, relatable segments, ensuring a rich and entertaining experience for listeners.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Tony Kornheiser (03:27): “We lost to Albany. Not by a. No. 3 3.”
• Tony Kornheiser (09:24): “Seinfeld wasn't cursed at all. He was a comedian. He was not an actor.”
• Garrett Cole (27:31): “We need to return the value of the starting pitcher. If the DH is involved in this... I'm all in favor of trying it.”
• Tony Kornheiser (13:42): “Daffodils and crocuses or is it croci or crocuses? They are incredibly hardy...”
• Tim Kirchhen (63:54): “My baby took all I had, Every penny, every dime, Left me with nothing but potato chips and wine...”

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This summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and lighter moments from "The Tony Kornheiser Show" episode titled “Chessie’s New Toy.” It provides a comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened, highlighting the show's unique blend of sports commentary and personal storytelling.

Transcript

[Tony Kornheiser]

Hey, it's Tony. On today's show, we'll talk with Tim Kirchen about some tough news for Garrett Cole and the Yankees. We'll also talk with Jason Locanfora about the big moves in NFL free agency so far. Jessie will also pound this particular new ball that she's got and you'll hear the squeaking. And Chris Ciliza is here. But first, let's keep the sales weasels happy.

[Snoop Dogg]

Today at T Mobile, I'm joined by.

[Chris Cilizza]

A special co anchor.

[Tony Kornheiser]

What up everybody? It's your boy. Big Snoop deal. Double G Snoop. Where can people go to find great deals? Head to T mobile.com and get four.

[Snoop Dogg]

Iphone 16s with Apple Apple Intelligence on.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Us plus four lines for 25 bucks.

[Snoop Dogg]

That's quite a deal, Snoop.

[Chris Cilizza]

And when you switch to T Mobile.

[Tony Kornheiser]

You can save versus the other big guys.

[Chris Cilizza]

Comparable plans plus streaming.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Respect when we up out of here.

[Chris Cilizza]

See how you can save on wireless and streaming versus the other big guys. @t mobile.com/apple intelligence requires iOS 18.1 or later. I was never really a runner. The way I see running is a gift. Especially when you have stage four cancer. I'm Ann. I'm running the Boston Marathon presented by bank of America. I run for Dana Farber Cancer Institute to give people like me a chance to thrive in life even with cancer.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Join bank of America in helping Anne's cause. Give if you can@b of a.comSupportAnn what would you like the power to do? References to charitable organizations is not endorsement by bank of America Corporation. Copyright 2025.

[Tim Kirchhen]

Previously on the Tony Kornhauser Show.

[Tony Kornheiser]

We lost to Albany. Not by a. No. 3 3.

[Jason Lockenfora]

And there was a three point shot at the end of the game to tie. To tie. That didn't go in there. You have covered the six and a half point underdogs.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah, that's fine. Yeah. I think they're getting a lot of action betting on Binghamton. Alright.

[Jason Lockenfora]

There should be some people looking into it now. Probably going to get at large bid because the America east will get probably about five or six teams.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah, yeah. At least one. This is General George Washington and you're listening to the Tony Kornheiser show. So Nigel in goodness orders these multicolored soft large balls for the dog to play with on cue.

[Nigel]

Indestructible, Right?

[Tony Kornheiser]

Indestructible. And orders them. They come to the house. We pick up the old ones that she has eaten through and eaten all the fuzz on the inside making her sick and we give her the New ones and she's squeaking with them. And she will. It's 8:15 in the morning now. By 11:00 she will have broken through the ball and she will be eating all the fuzz inside. But it makes. It makes her happy to have the big soft ball.

[Chris Cilizza]

It's one of the great themes of literature. Man versus man, man versus nature, dog versus ball. Everyone knows that Nietzsche wrote about that.

[Tony Kornheiser]

And so she's gonna make noise.

[Jason Lockenfora]

It just feels like we have Harpo Mox in studio.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah, she's gonna make some.

[Chris Cilizza]

It reminds me of when you have a little kid. Michael. Will they have that popper thing. It like walks and makes pop, pop, pop. It's like a little thing they hold. It is the worst toy ever.

[Nigel]

No one ever buys it new.

[Tony Kornheiser]

I don't know it. I don't know that.

[Jason Lockenfora]

And as relates to the. The show open there. Can I give you an update? UVM out.

[Tony Kornheiser]

They lost to Brian.

[Jason Lockenfora]

Yes.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Brian was the number one or Maine.

[Jason Lockenfora]

I can't remember.

[Tony Kornheiser]

They lost a. Maine was not the number one seed.

[Nigel]

No.

[Chris Cilizza]

Main and Cooper Flag.

[Jason Lockenfora]

Yeah, Maine.

[Tony Kornheiser]

The brother.

[Garrett Cole]

What?

[Chris Cilizza]

Oh yeah. Ace Flag is going to Maine.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yes. His twin brother. Yeah.

[Jason Lockenfora]

So Maine and Bryant advanced to the championship round.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Okay, good for Maine. Maine's been in there since the beginning. They probably never been in the finals before. The Black Bears.

[Jason Lockenfora]

Is that what they are?

[Tony Kornheiser]

The Black Bears? They have a. You know what? This is the oddest thing about the University of Maine. They have had for. If they still have it, I don't know, certainly into the 90s they had this. They have a really, really top flight baseball program. Really. And you say to yourself it's impossible because you can't play outdoors in Maine in April, May and June. You can't. It's free. So they used to go to Florida for 40 or 50 games and they were really good. Interesting. They did really good study abroad program. Sort of.

[Chris Cilizza]

Sort of currently 4 and 9. But they do play in March. But they really do play good team. I mean they're in Louisiana right now.

[Tony Kornheiser]

That's.

[Garrett Cole]

Yeah.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Okay. So Maine, the University of Maine had a very good baseball.

[Nigel]

What I love about college baseball, they play double header triple headers every single.

[Chris Cilizza]

They play 70 games a year. By the way, tough loss over the weekend. Oh, it was two weekends ago at GW. So here got nipped 26 to 7. The main black Bears.

[Tony Kornheiser]

It happens. But you know they have. Maybe I shouldn't say they have a good program and just say they have an ambitious program. Oh, and they recruit well, yeah, and then they, they tell they go on the road.

[Nigel]

What's the word?

[Chris Cilizza]

We got a big three game series coming up in a little place I like to call Vestal, New York.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Oh, they play Binghamton three games.

[Chris Cilizza]

Yep. Binghamton's March 21st, 22nd, 23rd.

[Tony Kornheiser]

We've had.

[Chris Cilizza]

I will see you there.

[Tony Kornheiser]

We've had major league baseball players in. Yeah, we've had a couple of major league players. So I had a couple of things to get to. First, first of all, let me thank Will Fleming. Will and Dave Fleming are wonderful play by play people. And Will sent me a lovely remembrance of his dad Mike. And, and I appreciate that. It's long. I, it's personal. I'm not going to read it out loud, but thank you for that. Jim Walsh writes I've been a loyal fan of PTI on your podcast, but just recently looked up bios for you and Wilbon. You both overlap with my brother at the Washington Post. Ed Walsh was a political reporter at the Post who covered the Carter presidency, many presidential campaigns, was on the fringes of many Watergate related stories. Later served as a bureau chief in Jerusalem and then Chicago, which is our hometown. Did you know him? And why is Wilbaugh not a White Sox fan? I don't know which side of town he grew up on, but if he's a South Sider, it's inexcusable to be a Cubs fan. I think he is a Southsider and he is a Cubs fan as well. But if the White Sox are doing well, he'll say they're doing well. And I knew of Ed Walsh. Chris, you knew Ed Walsh.

[Chris Cilizza]

He was in the political kind of reporter world. We did not like directly overlap, but he was in when I was at the Post, he was still kind of in that world cause he had covered a bunch of campaigns.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yes. And from Mo Werner of the two in Washington, Dear Tony, thank you for the shout out and credit for helping with your daylight savings time issue with your BMW. Well, I'm delighted you were able to follow the instructions. I'm dismayed that they did not work correctly for you. I feel your pain know how frustrating technology is when it doesn't work. The issue could be several possibilities, but I suppose the most likely one is a bad temporary connection. Whether you're aware of it or not, your car, as do many others, has a cellular connection which allows it to communicate with a central network for updates, emergency calls, etc. Thus, when you were updating your time settings, the cell connection may have been spotty so it wouldn't process the time setting change in that moment. The solution for this is to go through the steps again, ideally in a different location that is more likely to have a better cell connection, such as the parking lots for the Refugee, Safeway Truist or even Columbia. That's interesting. Hopefully, as I did it outside my house, hopefully that solves your DST problem Daylight Savings Time once and for all. If that doesn't work, the other possibilities are more challenging to troubleshoot. So just have the shop do it for you when you take it in for regular service. P.S. inspired by your efforts to connect with the actress who played Elizabeth on Listen Up, Chuck and Roxy are planning on doing podcast reviews of the series. I just watched episode one for the first time in years and look forward to revisiting the rest of the series along with them. Jason Alexander and Malcolm Jamal Warner was great power pairing for you and Wilbond. With PTI closing in on 25 years, that pairing has been hard to duplicate. Which leads me to something I want to talk about. I found out yesterday from the woman to whom I'm related by marriage that Chuck and Roxy have started on this series of podcasts about Listen Up. Apparently they did not know about Listen Up. Not everybody knows what's enough. It only lasted one season, full season.

[Chris Cilizza]

I mean, back when network TV 37 episodes.

[Tony Kornheiser]

And now they're devoting some time to this and I believe Carol listened to it. I will talk in the most broadly general terms. I am flattered, still enormously flattered, that my work became the spine for a television show, that the television show didn't work. That's the way it goes. I mean, would I have been really rich if it was on for 10 years? Yeah, I would have been. But I'm okay. I'm doing fine. So you don't have to worry about me. And again, it was mostly flattering. Have some pictures around the house of the cast with, you know, Carol and Elizabeth and no pictures with me or no pictures with Michael.

[Nigel]

I wasn't invited on that trip.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah, but I wasn't. Nor was I. Nor was I. But so the thing is, so Jason Alexander played me. The name was Tony Kleinman, not Tony Kornheiser, and played me. And apparently part of the discussion was, you know, the Seinfeld curse. Now when I heard Seinfeld curse in my head in the car yesterday, I wanted to take a flamethrower to the notion of Seinfeld curse. All right, let's. Let's try and understand something. First of All Jerry Seinfeld. Seinfeld wasn't cursed at all. He was a comedian. He was not an actor. He doesn't act. Have you seen him in anything?

[Chris Cilizza]

He barely acts in the show.

[Tony Kornheiser]

He's a comedian. How's his career? Better than yours would be the correct answer. Right.

[Chris Cilizza]

Let's do a quick Seinfeld network, because I have a feeling it's going to.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Be with a B.

[Chris Cilizza]

How does billion taste?

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah. Larry David, who helped create the show with Jerry Seinfeld, would you say that he was part of the Seinfeld curse? How much money has Larry David made? Larry David is an iconic figure in comedy. Am I right about that?

[Jason Lockenfora]

Curve was what, 15 years?

[Chris Cilizza]

Something that is 900 million feel. Is that good? Is that a lot?

[Tony Kornheiser]

All right, so now let's go through the actors. Michael Richards tubed his career. Yep. Had a terrible performance in a standup. Got canceled. Tubed his career. Yeah. Had nothing to do with the Seinfeld show. Julia Louis Dreyfus was on Veep. Veep's hysterically funny. Julia Louis Dreyfuss career, I think it is fair to say, is every bit as good now as it was on Seinfeld.

[Chris Cilizza]

She's huge.

[Jason Lockenfora]

Yeah. And she's doing movies. She's doing whatever she wants now.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah.

[Snoop Dogg]

Okay.

[Tony Kornheiser]

So, yeah.

[Nigel]

The only issue is, I think you're not accounting for a decade between the end of Seinfeld and then what? You're looking at the story with Veep and even early 2000s.

[Tony Kornheiser]

How's she doing now? She's doing great. Yo. Yeah.

[Snoop Dogg]

Okay.

[Chris Cilizza]

Now she's the one whose father, by the way, is like a zillionaire.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yes.

[Chris Cilizza]

Julia Louis Drev. She sounds like a French zillionaire. Comes from huge money.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Okay.

[Chris Cilizza]

Yeah.

[Nigel]

Is that how her kid got into basketball?

[Tony Kornheiser]

Okay.

[Chris Cilizza]

Exactly. So, no, he's just really good.

[Tony Kornheiser]

So then you get to Jason Alexander. And Jason Alexander, who was brilliant as George. Brilliant, you know, got this. Got this. Got this chance to be on Listen Up. Didn't work. It didn't work. He still does commercials. He probably still acts. I mean, I don't know, but I don't think it's fair to say curse. But the other thing that bothered me when I heard it was that someone went on the show and said, well, you know, Jason Alexander, who has a credit as a producer on the show. Jason Alexander. Well, of course he put himself. He shouldn't have been the lead. And he put himself in the show because he was a producer. Can I just please explain how television works in order to give Jason Alexander more money to be on the show. They gave him a producer credit. He wasn't the producer. He didn't go out and hire the people. He didn't bankroll. He didn't do any of that. The things that producers actually do. He didn't do that. He just got a credit.

[Chris Cilizza]

It's like giving someone equity in a company.

[Tony Kornheiser]

He didn't put himself in the show. They wanted him from moment one. So did I. So did I. And again, enormously flattered by this whole thing. I am very flattered by it.

[Nigel]

I also put this in the category of restaurants, where when that show launched, it was easier to promote a new show than rather give a show two to three seasons to find its sea legs and get an audience.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Fine. It happened. It's fine. Everybody liked you, though.

[Nigel]

Yeah, I had a great line. Come on. Zip codes.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah.

[Chris Cilizza]

Storm's coming, Malcolm. Jamal Warner was in this.

[Nigel]

Yes. Do you remember?

[Chris Cilizza]

It was Wilbon. Okay.

[Nigel]

Do you remember when one of the writers came and visited PTI for the day?

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah. So, no, I don't remember that, but I'm sure it happened.

[Nigel]

Oh, this is where I was just working on my swing positions in the mirror.

[Tony Kornheiser]

We want to congratulate our pal Chuck Culpepper. Could you tell people what happened with Chuck?

[Jason Lockenfora]

Oh, Chuck is one of the inductees of the Class of 2025 for the U.S. basketball Writers Association.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Isn't that nice? Good for him. Yeah, that's amazing. He's being inducted with other people who I don't know, but I know Chuck, and good for Chuck.

[Jason Lockenfora]

Yeah. Very happy for that.

[Tony Kornheiser]

I have a sad and lonely daffodil in my yard. I have one, and it's out there now because it was so hot yesterday. And daffodils are one of the sure signs of spring. Daffodils and crocuses or is it croci or crocuses?

[Chris Cilizza]

I'm gonna go with crocuses, which means it's croci, but yes.

[Tony Kornheiser]

So the thing about them. And then lily of the valley is another one that's out.

[Nigel]

All that's a little bit later.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah. You have to understand this, you know, you think, oh, they're fragile, and if it gets cold and if it snows again, which it, of course, it could in March, they'll go down the drain. No, they are incredibly hardy. They are there, like, within two feet of snow when it finally begins to melt. They pop out first and they're yellow, and you see them. So I saw some on the walk.

[Chris Cilizza]

We Went on a walk last night.

[Tony Kornheiser]

So people have daffodils.

[Nigel]

No real snow drops in your backyard either.

[Tony Kornheiser]

No, no.

[Jason Lockenfora]

What's the snowdrop?

[Nigel]

It's a little white one.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Little white one. Okay, so I think of those as lily of the valley.

[Nigel]

Yeah, lily of valley, I think. Comes out in May.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Okay, so that is what I'm talking about. No, I don't have any of those. They're not in the yard, by the way.

[Jason Lockenfora]

Crocuses or croak eye? Both are correct.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Okay, good. Oh, yes, good.

[Chris Cilizza]

Tomato, tomato.

[Tony Kornheiser]

So let me get to Tiger Woods. So we get this news yesterday. We're at pti, and the news comes over that Tiger woods has torn his ACL and already had the surgery.

[Jason Lockenfora]

Achilles.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Oh, his Achilles. Achilles.

[Jason Lockenfora]

Achilles.

[Tony Kornheiser]

And already had the surgery. Which means he's got a surgeon on speed call.

[Nigel]

I mean, at this point, wouldn't you.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Jimmy, what are you doing?

[Chris Cilizza]

He hurt it. Gearing up to, like, swing.

[Tony Kornheiser]

It wasn't in tgl.

[Nigel]

No, it was not in tgl.

[Tony Kornheiser]

It was practice.

[Nigel]

Yeah. This would be likely a quick freak accident.

[Chris Cilizza]

Playing paddle ball.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Maybe he's just falling apart. Pickleball. Pickleball, Rather. Yeah.

[Chris Cilizza]

He is almost exactly my age, so I think he's 49.

[Tony Kornheiser]

So.

[Garrett Cole]

Right.

[Chris Cilizza]

So he's my exact. I mean, yeah, I'm obviously an Adonis, so you don't want to compare him to me. But, like, it's just incredible. I mean, he has had so many things go wrong.

[Tony Kornheiser]

The next time we will see him, I believe is in something that everyone says he won't do. The Senior Open. I think he's going to want to do it. I think if he can play. He's played golf his whole life. He's one of the greatest two golfers of all time. He's either one or two. I say he's two because of Nicklaus's records, but it's. There's. There's nobody above him.

[Jason Lockenfora]

Yeah.

[Tony Kornheiser]

You know, other than Nicklaus. And I think he's going to want to play. And I think his son is going to say to him, hey, dad, come on, why don't you. I'll caddy for you. Why don't you play in the senior role? Why don't you give it a shot? What do you think?

[Nigel]

Years ago, when some of these stories about Tiger surgeries first dropped, I would quote to you Tennyson's Ulysses, and I come back to the sign that. Which we are. We are. And you think about what is the aura of Tiger and what is he doing by trying to play or trying to come back that might affect that legacy. And sort of his willingness to play silly events like TGL and, and sort of be the host, it sort of changed that. So now I actually do see he'd be willing to go out there and be more of a ceremonial part of the golf landscape. He's played that will roll well as he's tried to be the ambassador of men's professional golf when we've had this split for the last couple years. And I think back to those lines where he says, I just want to be able to spe time with my family healthy. You look at what happened the last month. He was able to celebrate his daughter playing in the high school championship soccer game states.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah.

[Nigel]

And he seems to have this incredible bond with his son. Maybe this is just the fact that I have three boys and we're beginning to do golf together. I get to see them playing basketball. But I honestly, I'm with you now. I see him wanting to play and.

[Tony Kornheiser]

I would, I don't care if that he's in.

[Nigel]

He's brought his son in as a swing coach so that he gets to walk inside the ropes at every major. I, in some ways I'm happy that he's not forced to try and tee it up. I mean, we'd love to see him at the Masters and it's not that far removed from 2019. And then you even think about Phil winning a master or a major post 50.

[Chris Cilizza]

I just, I just looked this up and ESPN has this, his injury timeline. I mean, my only question is will his body. It's not like you get healthier and let break down less as you age. Achilles tendon injury. March, September 2024 Back surgery. April 2023 Ankle surgery. February 2021 Car crash injuries. December 21 Back procedure. August 19 Left knee surgery. April 2017 Back surgery. I mean, unbelievable.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yes.

[Chris Cilizza]

I mean that is an incredible for someone who's clearly like an elite athlete.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Obviously he has been denied the chance to fully realize all that he could have done in this sport. He is a star crossed figure. But I think we'll see him again because I, and I agree Michael completely. He has taken on a role that nobody ever thought he would take on, which is ambassador of golf. Everybody said no, he'd leave that to someone else. He's not going to do that. He's not going to get his hands dirty. He's getting his hands dirty. He's digging in the dirt like he did when he played golf. And I honestly think that we will see him again playing. Yeah.

[Nigel]

Now, one of the sad truths is you look at someone like Freddie Couples, for all the issues with his back, he still has been healthy enough where he makes the cut at the Masters or has a run at the weekend, or at least as someone who's playing every practice round is sort of that figurehead who's out there on the course. And I'm not sure Tiger can get back to that.

[Tony Kornheiser]

No, I agree. I agree with that.

[Chris Cilizza]

And is he.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Maybe they'll make a rule that he could play in a cart. Can the seniors play in a cartoon?

[Nigel]

I'm not sure for the majors, but they can play in carts in certain events.

[Chris Cilizza]

I just wonder, maybe he'll go to.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Dick's Sporting Goods and Binghamton.

[Chris Cilizza]

Does he have pride that if he can't reach a certain level, he wouldn't play?

[Tony Kornheiser]

Don't know.

[Jason Lockenfora]

I think.

[Chris Cilizza]

Or would he just kind of be there and hanging out and not play? You know, like a real ambassador. Like, hey, thanks for coming. Swing off the first key and that's it.

[Tony Kornheiser]

I know the power of this. I think when his son says to him, come on, dad, let's take a shot. Come on, I'll be with you. Let's go.

[Nigel]

42.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah. You know, so I think that might happen. I wrote Michael a very sad. My goodness message last night. I'm not going to discuss it now because we've gone a little bit longer tomorrow.

[Nigel]

I mean, I'll pull up quotes if you want.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah, just. It's just so sad.

[Chris Cilizza]

Is it long?

[Tony Kornheiser]

Is it a missive? No, show.

[Nigel]

I'm letting Chris read it.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Show it to Chris and we'll get out of here now. Tim Kirkjin when we return, I'm Tony Kornheiser. You're listening to the Tony Kornheiser show. This is the stamps.com read. Flexibility in your workday means you can decide when and where to invest your time. Like focusing on the important parts of the business that only you can do. With stamps.com, tedious tasks like sending certified mail, invoices, checks, documents, or packages can all be done on your time, not someone else's. Stamps.com simplifies your postage needs and adds valuable flexibility back into your workday. Stamps.com handles all your mailing and shipping needs wherever, whenever. Lets you seamlessly connect with every major marketplace and shopping cart. If you sell products online, that's probably really good. If you have to do this all the time, send stuff out. You can also access all the USPS and UPS services you need to run Your business right from your computer or phone, anytime, day or night, day or night. No lines, no traffic, no waiting. Have more flexibility in your life with stamps.com. sign [e-mail] and use the code Tony for a special offer that includes a four week trial plus free postage and a free digital scale. No long term commitments or contracts, just go to stamps.com, code Tony. Use the code. People. You're listening to the Tony Kornheiser show. You've heard me talk about collars and company makers of the amazing dress collar polo. Well, now they've taken things to the next level with their brand new maverick performance blazer. And you have to check this out. These blazers are sharp, perfect for travel. Why? Because they're wrinkle resistant. Just throw it in your bag. When you get to your destination, slip it back on. No wrinkles, no stress. Finally, no more figuring out how to travel with a blazer. And it's not just about convenience. The Mavic performance blazer is made with stretch fabric so you can move comfortably all day long. Plus it's packed with smart features, inside security zip pockets, a built in optional pocket square, and even a sunglasses loop. While you're at it, pair the blazer with The Collars & Co. Famous Dress Collar polos. They've already sold over a million of these comfortable polos with the signature dress collar on top. So Visit Collars and co.com use the promo code Tony for 20% off today. Use the code people. That should send me one of these. Yeah, I'd like to see this. A non wrinkle blazer. Yeah, because then I don't have to carry a steamer around with me all the time. Hmm.

[Chris Cilizza]

You're listening.

[Snoop Dogg]

You're listening to the Tony Kornheiser show.

[Tim Kirchhen]

If Babe Ruth had been unshaven, New Yorkers would have jeered. It's not the thing for which the fans of Garrig would have cheered. I don't know what to tell you. I know it's kind of weird, but the Yankees have beards. Before you start to faint and think the future's all grim, there is a stipulation. They must be well trimmed. They can't show up like Brandon Marsh the way it might have feared. But still, beards. Reggie Jackson must be thinking, this isn't fair to me. Does DiMaggio get a goatee retroactively? Don't be shocked on opening day when in the Bronx they appear. The Yankees with beards.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Fantastic. Dan Byrne. It's fantastic. It plays in Tim Kircheon. That's fantastic, isn't it?

[Garrett Cole]

That guy's a genius. Tony. Not only see the music sound good, he's got all the facts right too. And it's hilarious.

[Tony Kornheiser]

He just, he went deep into the weeds. He pulled out Brandon Marsh, the guy from the Phillies who looks like, you know, totally homeless, who walks in and he pulled out Brandon Marsh.

[Garrett Cole]

Wow. That was really. That guy. He is really impressive.

[Tony Kornheiser]

I assume that the Yankees did that. I was going to say for free agency, but if you give a guy enough money, what does he care if he has a beard or not? Why do you think they did it?

[Garrett Cole]

Well, Devin Williams is their new closer. He has a great change up. He's new to the team and they just looked around and said basically it's time. And it is time. Tony, in this day and age, it's absolutely ridiculous with what our players do as far as, you know, celebrations, running around the bases, the way they wear their uniforms. I don't think facial hair is that big of a deal, at least not to me anymore. And I'm as old school as it gets, so I think that was part of it. We got some new guys. They'd like to wear beards. Let's go ahead and get into 2025 here.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Let's go to the Yankees for 600. Garrett Cole, Tommy John, surgery, out all this year. Probably out some of next year as well. Workhorse and a real stud pitcher. What do we think of this?

[Garrett Cole]

Well, it's a devastating loss, Tony. You know, we don't value our starting pitchers much these days, but when you have one as good as Garrett Cole and then suddenly you lose him, it changes the entire look of the rotation. I mean, he's won the Cy Young two years. He was the best pitcher in baseball who had never won a Cy Young until two years ago.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Right.

[Garrett Cole]

He. And he's critical now. They did sign Max Freed as a free agent in the off season. He has been an ace, a number one starter in the big leagues at times with the Braves. And by the way, the anagram for Max Freed is dream fix.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Wow.

[Garrett Cole]

He's not the dream fix for Garrett Cole because nobody is. That's how good Garrett Cole is. And this is on top of Luis Heel, who was the rookie of the year last year. Who has the best stuff on on the team, even better than Garrett Cole's stuff. He's out for a while also. So the Yankees have lost two critical starting pieces, one for the entire season.

[Tony Kornheiser]

I would, I would just caution in this one. Regardless. Last year no team was hit Harder with starting pitcher maladies than the Los Angeles Dodgers. And they write him and they went on to win the World Series. So you can overcome it. You can overcome it.

[Garrett Cole]

So, Tony, it's unbelievable how well teams have overcome all this. But the bottom line is there are three leagues now. There's the nl, there's the al, and there's the il, and it's not changing. And it. And teams somehow, Tony, every team has an army of arms in the minor leagues somewhere throwing 98 miles an hour with vicious secondary stuff. They just have to teach them how to pitch. Then they come up and they can be effective. Remember when Cole went down at the beginning of last year? Luis Heal, who wasn't even supposed to make the team, was the pitcher of the month in the American League in May. And that's what teams do. They have these guys in the minor leagues, they're just teaching how to pitch, but their stuff is spectacular.

[Tony Kornheiser]

So let's get to the broader question here. And the broader question is that there is a plague happening with pitchers in baseball. There's nothing less than a plague. And they are not pitchers. They are throwers, as Tim is alluding to. They have to be taught how to pitch because they are throwers. Max Scherzer, the other day, the warrior God who I love, came out with essentially a blueprint for how to do this, how to keep starting pitchers in for longer periods of time. Because he says if they don't go, at least if they've given up four runs, you can yank them. But if they don't go at least six without giving up four runs and it don't throw at least 100 pitches, then you have to keep. Then you. If you yank them, you have to lose your dh. It's a convoluted sort of thing that the Dodgers would go crazy about because their DH is the best player in the world. But what are your thoughts about Scherzer? And I'm sure that Verlander agrees with him, you know, every step of the way.

[Garrett Cole]

Yeah. And so do all the veterans, starting pitchers, Tony, who have been changed by the industry because the industry no longer values the starting pitcher.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Right.

[Garrett Cole]

Max Scherzer got me in a headlock a year and a half ago during the playoffs about this exact subject. Difficult to argue with him because he makes so much sense and he is a starting pitcher. My concern is the managers got their hands tied anyway. The front office is making a lot of their decisions before the game even starts. Now you can only use relievers a certain way. Now you can't throw over to first base like we used to. Now, if you put. If you tie a manager's hands, that you have to keep this guy in the game unless he gets hurt. I'm not sure that's the right thing to do, but I'm with Max. We need to return the value of the starting pitcher. And if the DH is involved in this, and I've seen that written and done many times, then I'm all in favor of trying it, looking at it. But it's also possible if we leave those guys in too long, they're going to get hurt even more. And that's what we're trying to avoid.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Can you limit roster spots? Instead of 12 and 13 pitchers on the roster, can you go to eight or nine, which would eliminate bullpen games and eliminate indiscriminate use of relievers?

[Garrett Cole]

No, that's inconceivable, Tony. Even though Earl Weaver told me once that he wanted to break this in the 70s, he wanted to break camp with seven pitchers. Seven. And his general manager said no. So they broke camp with eight. Now we break camp with 13, maybe even more, because we don't want those guys to get hurt. But, Tony, it's a paradox. The more we protect them, the more they get hurt. Earl, of course, had four 20 game winners on his staff. And his five starters, well, you only needed four. But his four guys were ready to pitch nine innings right out of spring training. That never happens anymore. Never. No one's ready to go nine innings right out of spring training. So again, this has been building from the industry for years and years and years. It's not going to be just corrected with one move or one situation.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Tell me if I have this right. Palmer, Cuellar, McNally and Dobson, each one 20.

[Garrett Cole]

Yes. Yes, Tony. We won't have four 20 game winners over the next five years come four in one season. That's how different the game is today.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Okay, we'll move off this to something that is not talked about a whole lot, but has to be, in my mind, tremendously embarrassing to baseball. And I know and baseball, certainly with the new rules last year, baseball got a real shot in the arm and nothing was embarrassing. And people were crediting baseball, shortening the games more fun, blah, blah, blah. They have two major league teams playing in minor league parks. How does that work out? How does Rob Manfred feel about that? Is that an embarrassment?

[Garrett Cole]

Well, yes. I'm not sure there's a way around that. I told you, Tony, that Bud selig told me 20 years ago. @ least when he was the commissioner. We need to do something about Tampa and Oakland, and 20 years later, they're playing in minor league ballparks and it's, it's just not right how this is going to work. And people can say, oh, they'll fill Steinbrenner Field in Tampa. It'll have more of a major league feel. I'm sorry, it's not. It's still a minor league ballpark and a beautiful one, but at the same time. And Oakland, by the way, is getting better. They're a pretty good team now, and they're going to Sacramento with some hopes moving forward. And the raised pitching is reduced. Ridiculously good. Brandon Hyde, Orioles manager, looked at me the other day when we're doing Orioles game, and he said, I can't believe everyone in the in the race rotation throws 98 miles an hour, every one of them, meaning they're pretty good and they have to play in a minor league stadium. It's just a confluence of things that have led to this, and there's in no way in the world can this be good for baseball.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Is there truth to. We didn't deal with this yesterday really on the show because we don't really understand it. Maybe you do. Is Rob Manfred, is he trying to change the ownership, the Tampa Bay ownership?

[Garrett Cole]

Well, he's not allowed to do that. He can make suggestions and make recommendations. I'm not sure There was significant pressure for Stu Sternberg to sell the team, and he's a very patient man because we've heard about the raise issues for years and years and years. I talked to someone who would know something about this, and he told me the raise owner is going to slow play this. He doesn't know how long this is going to take, how long this is going to get drawn out. I just don't see this being a quick fix that all of a sudden, yes, the Rays are for sale, and they're being sold to a couple local guys who are going to keep them in Tampa Bay, St. Pete and keep everything right and get them a new ballpark. I just, I don't think anything is easy when it comes to the Rays situation, especially now that they don't have a new ballpark.

[Tony Kornheiser]

So my immediate reaction to this was, okay, you want to change ownership because you think the ownership isn't spending enough money and they're not competitive. But They've been in two World Series in the past 10 years. They've been for the, for a cheap team. They've done very well. Right. They know what they're doing, it seemed to me. Or am I wrong on this?

[Garrett Cole]

No, Tony, you are right. They draft and develop better than almost any team out there. And I repeat, just when I thought this spring, I'm going to have to say, all right, the Rays, they can't make the playoffs. They can't make the playoffs with that offense. Brandon, I just says you can't believe how hard their starting pitchers are throwing this spring. So you can't count the Rays out even in this bizarre season where they're going to play in a minor league stadium. Their manager is great at this. Kevin Cash, Eric Neander, their GM is really good at this. So they're a very competitive team and so are the A's now in the AL West. So that's kind of the fun part about this is instead of saying, oh, this is going to be the worst thing ever, these teams might actually win some games this year.

[Tony Kornheiser]

If they win, they should stay in minor league ballparks because you should give them credit for that. Thank you, Tim, as always. Thank you.

[Garrett Cole]

Okay, Tony, see ya.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Tim Kirkjin, boys and girls, just a great joy. He's always happy to talk.

[Chris Cilizza]

Love his optimism and passion. I was thinking that while you were talking to him, passion for what you do comes through and is infectious.

[Tony Kornheiser]

In any conversation you have with Tim, at some point he will use this phrase and that's what makes baseball so great, because he loves baseball. We'll take a break. Jason Lock and Fora will join us and we'll try and wrap up what we know about free agency in the NFL. I'm Tony Kornheiser. This is the Tony Kornheiser Show. This is a Simplisafe read. We all have routines that bring us calm in a chaotic, often scary world. For people like Nigel, it's arming his Simplisafe home security system. Whether he's headed out for the day or locking up at night. That simple step does more than just protect his home. It gives him peace of mind. Yes, it's amazing how one small push of a button can have a big impact. Maybe the best thing about Simplisafe is knowing that your home is protected even before a threat becomes a problem. It's not just about responding to break ins, it's about preventing them in the first place. Feel good about it, right?

[Jason Lockenfora]

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[Snoop Dogg]

This is the Tony Kornheiser Show.

[Tony Kornheiser]

This is the Cars for Kids read. Now let's talk about that car you own but don't use. The one you're paying to keep registered and insured. That's taking up space out front and just sitting there doing no one any good. Let me tell you what you should do about that car. You should give Cars for Kids a call and have them take care of it for you. That's right. Just give them the info. They'll come to you as soon as the next day. They'll take that car off your hands at no cost to you. Even better, they will turn that car into funds to help kids. So visit cars4kids.org Tony that's cars with a K and then the number four to donate or call cars for kids directly at 1-877-cars4kids and they will get that car picked up in a jiffy. Plus you can get a tax deduction and vacation voucher and life will be just great. They've been around for 30 years. They've done this over a million times. Call now or head over to carsforkids.org Tony right now and get this done. That's carsforkids.org Tony remember, that's cars with.

[Jason Lockenfora]

A K. They should really put that to a jingle. Don't you think that would make it nice?

[Tony Kornheiser]

The phone number with actual kids playing and singing. Yeah, that would be great. Not like it would get in your head, would it?

[Snoop Dogg]

This is the Tony Kornheiser Show.

[Garrett Cole]

Tony Kornheiser Show.

[Tim Kirchhen]

My baby took all I had Every penny, every dime Left me with nothing but potato chips and wine My baby took off with everything I got Just this one guitar I'm left with Frito Lait and Bourgeois Sriracha and Pinot Noir, a ruffle with chenin blanc, sour cream and onion and Cape Cod kettle cooked with Sauvignon Funyuns with Chardonnay.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Genius.

[Chris Cilizza]

I mean, how.

[Nigel]

Try some of his pairings.

[Tim Kirchhen]

Potato chips and wine.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Dan Byrne is a genius.

[Garrett Cole]

How?

[Tony Kornheiser]

He's a genius. And he Did Yankees have beards. Yep. And he does potato chips and wine. And he writes. Thanks to Patrick Sitter in Sioux Falls, South Dakota for getting this one going. Potato chips and Wine is sure to be a country classic from now on. He's brilliant, Totally brilliant. He plays in Jason Lockenfor and we are joined by Odyssey NFL Insider, Jason Lock, and for a host of the podcast in the Huddle covering the entire NFL, it is full disclosure, 9:04 in the morning on Wednesday. What is the latest free agent thing that you've got?

[Snoop Dogg]

I mean, are you really excited about what's left of this Aaron Rodgers?

[Tony Kornheiser]

I'm excited. I always think of you when I think of Aaron Rodgers, and I think it's fitting that he's like the last guy to go and I wondered where he was going.

[Snoop Dogg]

Yeah, I don't know that he knows just yet. I mean, the Giants and the Steelers have at least entertained this notion and engaged with his representatives.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Right.

[Snoop Dogg]

I think it is quite a fool's prospect to actually consummate a deal that would give this person entrance to unfettered, basically entrance to your football building coming up here in a matter of weeks for the next, you know, nine to 11 months or more. Sounds like just a dire prospect to me. But it is being discussed. I, you know, I don't know what to say. That juice, I guess, could be worth the squeeze to somebody at the right price point, which, again, is going to be nowhere near what he's accustomed to making. But we'll still be pretty good money. I don't, I never saw a lot of options for him. We've talked about him, written about him. People asked me about him. I had to be one of the last guys to get in a seat at the table. And, you know, will a scenario emerge where somebody's desperate enough to give him, I don't know. I don't know. 17, 20, 25 million. I don't know what the number is. He wants to keep playing. He's. He, he wants to keep being the center of attention and he's gonna, he's gonna in all likelihood get that opportunity. I don't know.

[Tony Kornheiser]

He could go to the usfl.

[Snoop Dogg]

I don't know.

[Tony Kornheiser]

He could do that.

[Snoop Dogg]

I mean he could wait and cousins gets traded and they like I, I don't know how crazy people are, you know, like do they feel like they need, will they need some sort of insurance if TEDx were to get hurt or whatever? Like I don't. It'd be a non starter for me. That, that's what I know it wouldn't be under consideration. I would go get Flacco for 5 million or whatever and call it a day. Probably more than 5 million. But yeah, Tony, as we speak that is still a. That market is still in flux.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah.

[Snoop Dogg]

And yeah, he has suitors. He doesn't have any suitors that are anywhere close to, you know what he would love otherwise it would be done. And these teams all have, even the ones engaged with him have some degree of trepidation about what actually is going to Happen. But it's Econ101 supply and demand and there are still teams that need quarterbacks and there are not many start and I don't think like for me he's not a starting quarterback but like somebody he could be and there are not a lot of starting quarterback options out there.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Sam Darnold was one of them. He went to Seattle. That's fine except Seattle got rid of its two good receivers. I can you explain that to me? What are they going to do?

[Snoop Dogg]

I think if I'm Seattle and I'm explaining it to my owner and I think it's actually a fairly Trojan argument. Like look, we had seen Gino. I think we had plateaued with Gino.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah.

[Snoop Dogg]

Gino doesn't have the upside of Sam Darnold. Gino's not as ascending as Sam Darnold and we're going to move Geno who was a great find for us. We're going to get back third round pick where I think I can find us a 10 year starter. We're going to get Sam Darnold younger and cheaper and we're going to get call certainty with him at a rate that we like more. And then that third round pick we could use on a receiver or whatever. You know I would say it's like trading, like trading Gino and his salary for the rights to Darnold who I think they signed at a reasonable number for. For what's going on in the quarterback market and the pit, Jackson Smith and Jig was a hell of a receiver and there's no doubt in my mind he's going to get paid. I don't think Tyler Lockett was much of a receiver anymore and I think the market is responding as such. So they traded a receiver who was kind of, I don't want to say perpetually disgruntled, but there's been a lot of ish with him for a while, and he's been rumored in trade. I've heard his name mentioned in trade conversations going back two trade deadlines ago. So at a certain point, it might make sense to move on. And, you know, I still think they've got a viable path in that division. You know, I think the Rams are sitting okay. Everybody else in that division, I think, has a lot of work to do, and Seattle's got probably less work to do than the others. The most important thing is, can they. Can they keep Sam Darnold at anything close to the level he played at last year? Can they maintain that from a coaching standpoint and from a, you know, a practice and a preparation and a meeting room standpoint? Because if they do, he certainly played better than a $30 million quarterback last year. And if they do that, they're going to the playoffs. I mean, the cast. Irano won't be what it was in Minnesota, but I still think they've got a very real shot to go to the playoffs. Mike McDonald's got to make strides with that defense. That's what they hired that coach to do, and I believe he will. So I get it. Like, I don't think they were going to go anywhere you could make a case that they were going to be anything other than what they were with Gino.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Oh, I totally agree with that. I mean, I'm not sure I understand the fascination the Raiders have with him, but he. He was better than people thought. He wasn't great, but he was better than people thought. I was curious about Fields going to the Jets. I mean, I think I like Justin Fields more than others like Justin Fields and I. But he's on now on his third team in three years, and he washed out twice. What do you think of him?

[Snoop Dogg]

Well, I would have. I would go that route a million times before I do anything with Aaron Rodgers. I would. I. For that money and that structure and for where the jets are. I mean, I get it. Like, you might find lightning in the bottle. It's the third team. But, I mean, he definitely got a raw deal in Chicago.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah.

[Snoop Dogg]

Last year he was 4 and 2. 4 and 2. Ascending. And then they bench him. And it made sense for a while. And then unfortunately, he was hurt because I do believe he would have played more down the stretch. He would have played more situational. And if that went well. Situationally, with as much as Russ was running on his team, I think he would have taken over that team. Now, injuries prevented that from happening and you could make the argument about whether they moved off him too soon anyway, because Russ was good for about six.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Weeks, five or six weeks, he was great. And then he couldn't produce any points.

[Snoop Dogg]

They're not a marathoner anymore, so. So, you know, I put that on the organization. So. No, look, I think their run game will get going again next year and they've got to win with defense and they've got to get the defense back to being more consistent. And I think if you can just hold the ball on offense, that helps. And again, with the modicum of coaching.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Well, they got a new coach. They got new coaches, so we'll see. I'm curious about this. Everybody in Washington is excited that Laramie Tunsil has decided to don the gas mask here with Washington for a while. Houston obliterated its offensive line. They got rid of three guys on their offensive line. Doesn't that suggest that maybe they. They're no good, these players?

[Snoop Dogg]

Well, I think he's definitely still a good football player. I think that the question of whether his best days are behind him and if, if the fact that he was so handsy last year and the holding penalty is in it let the league, if that's a sign of deteriorating physical play and sort of, you know, a data point towards further other metrics that will show up more in the rate at which he's beat. And you know, is he as good laterally? What is the first step like? And you know, all the things that sort of go into the athleticism that's necessary to play that position. Anything close to the level that he's played at most of his career, which is, I mean, I want to slight this player at all. He's been a tremendous football player.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yes.

[Snoop Dogg]

You know, they also blew out their offensive coordinator. Like they, they did not know how to protect the quarterback last year and they obviously were willing to take great strides to try to reboot. We'll see whether they get it right. Like, it to me is a fair amount of draft capital. Like, there's a part of me that just wonders if Washington didn't want to run it back with every 35 year old on their roster and they didn't want to trade these picks for, you know, a left tackle who, you know, the arrow may be starting to turn down. And if they just kind of continued to build with me, they had a generational draft Last year, like, if they continued on that trend and added some younger free agents, I just wonder if that makes more sense than running it back. Because the league is looking at them differently now. The level at which people are going to be aware of them and prepared for them. The schedule is going to be tougher. I found it odd that they were kind of prioritizing all the old guys first. Like, a lot of times the market.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Will say, those guys, you know, like Wagner and Ertz. Right.

[Snoop Dogg]

Yeah. They mean more to you than anybody else. And they're gonna find out quickly it's not out there for them. Like, it might be somewhere else, and you might be able to get them down the road at a different price. But I just don't know that I would have felt that impetus to keep them off the market. I get the. The intangibles and leadership. Like, I understand that has a value, but just look at the Texans last year. Everybody thought the Texans won the off season last year. I mean, that's all I heard. I mean, it's like, wow, well, look what they did year one. And now, you know, Diggs and this, that and the other. And how did that work out for him? They just traded Laramie Tonsil. They gutted their offensive line. They fired their board, genius offensive coordinator. So life comes at you fast in this league. And I. I'm going to be really interested to see how the commanders handle this second time around, because I think you've always got to be changing and evolving in this league, and I think thinking you can sustain what you had last year with a lot of those same players who definitely are on the decline. I don't know.

[Tony Kornheiser]

That's really interesting. I hadn't thought of any of that. Thank you for that plug. I won't even get into Miles Garrett, who I loathe at the moment. I'm just. Just can't stand it.

[Chris Cilizza]

Show me the money.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Play your radio. Plug your radio show for us, Jason.

[Snoop Dogg]

Money talks to him.

[Tony Kornheiser]

I know, but then don't. Don't talk about principle. Don't talk about principle.

[Snoop Dogg]

It's about principle. Right up until it's enough money to make those principles.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Come on.

[Snoop Dogg]

Okay, you can listen to me. Hopefully with a less raspy voice. Although today it might be bad. From 2 to 6 on 1057 the fan in Baltimore or anywhere on the Odyssey app. And I just found out we're on, like, Spotify and all those other places you listen to your podcast. You could just search 1057 the FAN and listen to us. There Whole shows, episodic, chapter by chapter. Whatever you prefer. Terps, O's, Ravens. A lot of national stuff too.

[Tony Kornheiser]

You ought to get more money.

[Snoop Dogg]

Some esoteric college. Betty. I really like the Rutgers over today. Tom.

[Tony Kornheiser]

No. Okay.

[Snoop Dogg]

Just saying.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Thank you Jason.

[Snoop Dogg]

You got it. Thanks guys.

[Tony Kornheiser]

That's Odyssey, NFL Insider, Jason Lock and Fora. Make sure to follow in the huddle on the Odyssey app or subscribe wherever you get podcasts. It's time for email and jingle. I'm Tony Kornheiser.

[Snoop Dogg]

You're listening to the Tony Kornheiser Show.

[Tony Kornheiser]

This is a trade coffee read. Morning coffee is fabulous, but let's be honest, it can get repetitive. Especially if you just grab the same old grocery store beans or try and treat yourself to a pricey coffee shop latte. Trade is what you should be looking for and once you switch over, it will completely upgrade your coffee routine. Trade is a coffee subscription service that connects you with 50 over 50 of the best roasters in the country. They've got over 450 incredible roasts. So whether you're new to coffee or very particular, they'll match you with something amazing. You just take their quick quiz and trade does the rest. They even guarantee you'll love your first bag or they'll replace it for free until they get it right. And because every bag is roasted to order, the freshness is unreal. Coffee smells so good it'll feel like your kitchen is actually the coffee shop. Plus Trade's prices are right in line with what you'd pay at the grocery store. But the quality's on another level right now. Trade is exclusively offering listeners to this high quality podcast. 40% off your first [e-mail] Tony that's DrinkTrade. T R A D E.com Tony 40% off your first order. Drinktrade.com Tony use the code people.

[Snoop Dogg]

You're listening to the Tony Kornheiser Show. The Tony Kornheiser Show. SA.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Is everybody wet? Just you're submerged. Jeremy Vince so great.

[Nigel]

Shark tank. Baltimore Aquarium.

[Jason Lockenfora]

Yes.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Do you want to do the Bethesda bagel ad?

[Jason Lockenfora]

Bethesda bagels. We love them. You would as well just go to bethesdabaggles.com for the location in the DC area nearest you. Then pop one in my friend, and you'll be thrilled.

[Chris Cilizza]

Can't wait for that bagel sandwich today, right?

[Tony Kornheiser]

No.

[Chris Cilizza]

Right guys?

[Tony Kornheiser]

No guys. No. No.

[Chris Cilizza]

Something else for that.

[Tony Kornheiser]

That's going to do it for us today. Before we get to the Mac, let me just say. God said to Abraham, kill me. His son Abe said, man, you must be putting me on. God said, no. Abe said, what? God said, you can do what you want, Abe, but the next time you see me coming, you better run. And Abe said, where do you want this killing done? God said, on that Highway 61. It's the greatest lyrics of all time. Thanks to our guests today, Tim Kirch and Jason Lock, and fora thanks as well to today's sponsors. Remember, you can listen to us on Apple podcasts, Spotify and Odyssey. If you get the show through Apple, please leave us a review so Sam angel writes to us Sam, now living in Silver Spring, no longer in Philadelphia. You may recall that for many years I was a sports information director at Drexel University, where we shared Market street and all the nearby food trucks. Shout out to Frida with Michael's Penn Quakers. I'm no longer an Sid, but the woman to whom I'm related by marriage is, and that's what prompted me to email her American University Eagles insert David Aldridge yeah, here will be playing for a championship on Wednesday night. That's tonight when they host Navy for the Patriot league championship game 7:00 at Bender arena on campus, Washington, D.C. the Eagles shared the regular season title with Bucknell, which lost to Navy In a 4 over 1 upset, if you can call that an upset in the semifinals. Meanwhile, we poured one out for Howard Feynman when American ended Colgate's run of four consecutive Patriot League titles by beating the Raiders 7262 in the semis on Sunday in front of a raucous, crowded Bender. The Eagles are coached by former Turp and DeMatha star Duane Simpkins, who has them rolling his second year at the helm in the age of the transfer portal. They are led by three 50 year seniors Matt Rodgers, Colin Smalls and Lincoln Ball, all of whom elected to stay at AU and finish their careers by going for a championship. Lincoln's dad Bill listens to the podcast, so I look forward to receiving a TK salute from him and DA at the arena tonight. Tickets are limited and they're expecting a sellout, but any Littles looking to see a ticket to the Big Dance punched in person can head to Bender tonight to get their own David Aldrich moment. Go Eagle. Something I don't think I ever said in a decade living in Philadelphia. Sam angel so that's something to do tonight?

[Jason Lockenfora]

Yeah, absolutely something to do.

[Chris Cilizza]

Can I ask a practical question here?

[Tony Kornheiser]

Are we going to do Stonehenge is.

[Chris Cilizza]

A nine over an eight, an upset.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Not according to Bob Ryan. According to.

[Chris Cilizza]

I just want to get that clear.

[Nigel]

You just wait till next week. We'll find out.

[Tony Kornheiser]

From Bill Matfeld's, Fort Mills, S.C. brett Hobbs from Southern Indiana brought me back to my college days in the Gooch Dillard dorm at the University of Virginia. Whenever there was snow in the forecast, we would go to our local Super Fresh or Kroger to see everybody freaking out and stocking up on bread and milk. What did we fill our shopping cart with? Boone's Farm Wine. Oh, the college students dream. When our mood went to the hard stuff, we would go and buy Bowman's Tequila from the equipment gave capital in the United States. Spotsylvania County, Virginia. Sometimes we would mix the Boone's Farm wine with Bowman's Vodka. Boy, if you can drink Bowman's, you can drink anything. Ah, the memories. Or lack thereof. From Scott Moffett, Richmond, Virginia. As long as there are broke college students, they will continue to make Boone's Farm. Yes, Boone's Farm was around when I was in college, as it was for you. Oh, very much so, Michael.

[Nigel]

I don't remember.

[Chris Cilizza]

This brings up bad memories.

[Jason Lockenfora]

Yeah, very much part of my collegiate experience.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Chuck Shields, Bentonville, Arkansas thank you so much for reading my son's Grayson Shields email a few months back in which he offered being one of the few human beings in his age bracket who are in fact able to make change when presented cash and elicited questions from you as to why people his age listen to the show, as well as evoking discussions on places in your area which serve frozen custard, which is up to snuff. He was thrilled to know his email made the cut, whereas I, a father in law little, could not have been prouder. Well, on March 12th he'll be turning 18, 22 years before he becomes a man. He's a bright kid who demonstrates leadership, character and sense of humor in various platforms. I could ask you as a fellow father to wish him happy birthday, but would simply rather you tell him to eat it, pound sand or both, as I trust your judgment in these matters.

[Chris Cilizza]

Eat it, Grayson.

[Tony Kornheiser]

From Kyle in London, England. Did you know that daylight savings time over here in London isn't for another three weeks? March 30th to be exact. Because you get it right and you don't even have baseball.

[Jason Lockenfora]

That's the one thing you do get right.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah, it's always a week or so apart, but this year seems extraordinarily early over there. It's helpful for me, an expat from Baltimore when we are only four hours apart during the week rather than the standard five because I can get the call with my mom out of the way earlier in the day and not take up valuable Sunday evening pub time. Our local thanks you, thanks you. Also, please shout out to Nate, the Nigella guy from Monday and tell him congratulations on the wedding in April. I don't know him, we've never met, but as expats need to stick together, tell him to give me a call if he ever needs to talk about what it's like being married to a woman from another country. My wife is from New Jersey. Good luck in the darkness. Good luck in the darkness. Luke in Chicago just saw the latest episode title which is I like Luke. Yes, you know, haven't listened to it yet but wanted to say thanks. You aren't so bad yourself. That's funny. Marianne Flat Montclair, New Jersey Chips and Vino Absolutely. Years ago, my husband and I visited a small California winery and discovered how great a potato chip topped with creme fraiche and a bit smoked salmon paired with sparkling wine could be. We often greet our guests with bubbles on this tasty chip, amazing them at how an ordinary chip is elegantly elevated. We recently discovered a line of potato chips geared to go with a wide variety of wines. We'd love to send you some if Nigel will give us the address. It's moved over to Nitro.

[Garrett Cole]

Wow.

[Tony Kornheiser]

It's on the conveyor phone. It's on the conveyor belt right now.

[Jason Lockenfora]

There we go.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Ryan in Auckland in New Zealand pin him Kia ora Tony, hearing your power struggles, you should move to New Zealand. There are several positives. 1. Your December power bill when converted to the New Zealand dollar dollar is almost eight months of power. 2. US sports coverage starts at 6am for PGA and is done by 7pm West coast basketball and football. Perfect. Catch everything. Have a nice sleep. There is a con of one of the longest plane trips in the world. But hey, I'm sure there are nice boats. Thanks so much. And P.S. always have a subject line. Yes, great advice from Doug in coastal North Carolina, formerly of the 20009 and 22314. As a 45 year old father of three, I'm familiar with Gummy Bears. Growing up, I recall the neighborhood pool concession stand having Black Forest brand Gummy bears. Those and the Laffy Taffy were my go to treats. Somewhere about life's long and winding road. I gravitated toward Haribou. I never felt the need to explore the world of Gummy Bears beyond this, that is, until you made mention of Albany's Gummy Bears. I don't know, a couple of years ago. Anyway, when I first heard mention of this new to me gummy Bear brand, I interpreted as Albany's Gummy Bears. I thought, okay, no big deal. Dr. Grandpa is just going on another tangent about upstate New York and all of its glory. I must have missed it in school when learning about the state's capital that Albany was also the state gummy bear capital. Fantastic. Fast forward a few months and I'm perusing the candy aisle at my local Food lion looking for Andes mints. I see Albany's Gummy Bears.

[Snoop Dogg]

What?

[Tony Kornheiser]

I think to myself in my best orange bald man exclamation. That's how it's spelled. My gummy bear world was turned upside down. Fast forward many months and today was the day. I'm not sure why, but it was. I finally bought a bag of Albany's Gummy Bears and I'm going to see what my kids think. And I think and I'll report back.

[Chris Cilizza]

You'll be welcome to the party, pal.

[Tony Kornheiser]

From John Craig, Speaking of Albany. From John Craig in Albany, New York. Chuck and Roxy211 I met Springsteen superfan Hank Azaria here in Albany last year for Bruce's rescheduled concert from 2023. I was walking on the concourse and said hello. He was so nice and asked how many Bruce shows I'd seen. I said it was my third. He said it was his 23rd. I later saw him in the pit rocking out and I asked him about at the. I asked him at the end, at the end about the show. He was a Bruce encyclopedia. He took pictures with everyone and afterwards outside, some guys bought him a slice of pizza and he posed for more photos. Super guy. On a side note, walking out of my daughter's middle school musical Saturday, a guy walking next to me said lecheserie. That made me laugh and he said, I know. I asked who he was. Joe Bianchino. Oh yeah. Frequent email. Yes, another celebrity encounter. But he doesn't have a Chuck and Roxy number yet. Thanks for being there. From Carl in Oswego, New York, Upstate. Don't forget that there is a total eclipse of the moon coming on Friday morning. We have a full moon now on Wednesday. On Wednesday we have a full moon. So totality will last from about 2:30 to 3:30am what does that, what does that mean?

[Chris Cilizza]

I mean, obviously I know that an eclipse of the sun does, I'm sure, because it gets dark. But what is an eclipse.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Well, the moon is very bright, especially.

[Chris Cilizza]

So it just gets darker.

[Tony Kornheiser]

It goes away. A total eclipse, it goes away. Where?

[Snoop Dogg]

Wow.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Maybe you see just the periphery corona.

[Chris Cilizza]

You can have these corona glasses, but.

[Tony Kornheiser]

You can still see a partial eclipse for more than an hour after that. And you can see some interesting coloring because of the Earth's shadow for another hour after that. This is also your semiannual reminder that eclipses always come in pairs. Two weeks after that, on March 29, there'll be a partial eclipse of the sun around 7:00am, but you and I will barely get to see it. It is mostly for people in northeastern Canada and Greenland, which we are about to take over Canada.

[Chris Cilizza]

And that's called the 51st and 52nd.

[Nigel]

The moon is going to last 66 minutes.

[Tony Kornheiser]

It says that slide. That's great. Yeah. So you should get up and see it.

[Chris Cilizza]

230 to 330.

[Tony Kornheiser]

You should see it.

[Chris Cilizza]

Get the kids.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Is that Friday morning?

[Jason Lockenfora]

It's. I think he said Friday. And then again a couple weeks after that.

[Tony Kornheiser]

Yeah. All right. From Ara Coliance. Dear Mr. Tony, the next time you need a guest for your podcast, please do not reach out to me. I don't do podcasts. You and Corey Alexander, if you're out on your bike time, everyone, as always, do wear away.

[Snoop Dogg]

Yo, Chris, what's going on, man? I'm gonna show you nothing but love your guy. Eric Dievendorf.

[Tim Kirchhen]

If Babe Ruth had been unshaven, New Yorkers would have jeered. It's not the thing for which the fans of Garrig would have cheered. I don't know what to tell you. I know it's kinda weird, but the Yankees have beards. Before you start to faint and think the future's all grim there is a stipulation. They must be well trimmed they can't show up like Brandon Marsh the way you might have feared but still Beers. Reggie Jackson must be thinking this isn't fair to me. Does DiMaggio get a goatee retroactively? Don't be shocked on opening day when in the Bronx they appear the Yankees win.

[Chris Cilizza]

Beers.

[Tim Kirchhen]

My baby took all I had Every penny, every dime Left me with nothing but potato chips and wine My baby took off with everything I got Just this one guitar I'm left with Frito Lay and Boojo Lake A Sriracha and Pinot Noir A ruffle with chenine blanc Sour cream and onion and rose Cape Cod Kettle cooked with Sauvignon Funyuns with Chardonnay My baby, she done me wrong Left me all alone and crying Abandon me with nothing but potato chips and wine Potato chips and wine.