Nothing Personal with David Samson

Today’s word of the day is ‘dropped out’ as in Joe Biden as in Kamala Harris as in Donald Trump as in 2024 elections. Joe Biden officially dropped out of the race. Pressure had been mounting for weeks. The Democratic Party has been pushing for this. Now what? Now where are we? (13:55) Sorry, St. Louis. 2nd time my show was canceled. This one definitely wasn’t my fault. Outages worldwide. Flights canceled. Hospitals down. Banks down. Over a simple software update? (23:00) NPPOD. (35:09) Review: Bonnie & Clyde. (38:30) It’s time to talk 2025 Baseball Hall of Fame ballot. All eyes on Ichiro. (43:30) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about the Oakland Athletics firing 50% its non-baseball staff. (49:30) We have the start to the Copa America lawsuits. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘PAB’ as in Post All-Star Break as in 2nd part of MLB season as in playoff race as in trade deadline as World Series. Let’s take a look at what interests me. The AL East, the AL West, NL Wild Card, Paul Skenes! TRADE DEADLINE! (15:08) NPPOD. (17:15) Let’s break down everything that happened during the Las Vegas Stadium Authority got the Athletics plans. The development plans were made public so here we are. (36:55) Review: Faye. (38:45) Let’s discuss the Rays new ballpark. It’s not in Nashville. It’s not in Montreal. They are staying in St. Pete. Congrats to the Rays! (45:02) Last night was the RNC. Reports are out that Biden could drop out before the DNC. What is happening with the political climate in this country? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘value’ as in what is the value as in WNBA as in media right as in $2.2 billion as in NBA value. Let’s discuss what the WNBA is getting from the NBA and beyond. What are the players going to do? What are the networks going to do? What are the leagues going to do? (15:50) Angel City FC is now under new management. Willow Bay and Bob Iger takeover. What does the valuation mean for the league? (23:50) The MLB All-Star Game was a ratings success again. Rob Manfred had more to say from the ASG. What did he have to say? Olympics and gambling. (36:08) Review: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. (39:30) Let’s get to some MLB trade talk. Deadline is 2 weeks away and we have some candidates. What should these teams do? (48:07) Caleb Williams was trying to do something the NFL had never seen with his rookie deal. He wanted clauses in his contract that were hilarious, and immediately turned down. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘hey now’ as in hey now you’re an All-Star as in the MLB All-Star Game as in American League as in Ohtani as in throwing gas. (18:10) Rob Manfred spoke at All-Star weekend. What did he have to say? The future of baseball - robot umps, jerseys, streaming. (35:28) Review: Dancer in the Dark. (40:03) We have an update on the Athletics. John Fisher has spoken. And he made me LAUGH! (46:08) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Looks like James Dolan is back to fighting with the NBA again. This time it’s over the new NBA TV deal. Why is he so mad? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘dinger’ as in home run derby as in Teoscar Hernandez as in long ball as in dong shot as in Bobby Witt Jr. How did you feel about it? Did you like the new rules? (13:30) Are you ready for the All-Star Game? It’s time! Paul Skenes. 105 MPH! I’m ready! (27:00) Let’s talk about the pre-all-star-break baseball. Payroll Payroll Payroll! (33:01) Review: Cyndi Lauper. (35:00) Donald Trump has picked his VP. The Republican’s are going with J.D. Vance. Who is he? What does this selection mean? (44:01) More and more Copa America madness. The president of the Colombian Soccer Federation was arrested! What!? How did that happen? This story is becoming more and more and more embarrassing! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘scenario’ as in what a weekend as in Trump shot as in CONMEBOL madness as in Wimbledon as in MLB Draft as in so much crazy took place. Some way more disgraceful than others. Former President Donal Trump was on the campaign trail and was shot at. One spectator was killed. The lone gunman was killed. What a disgraceful time we are in. (17:25) What happened in Miami for the Argentina v. Colombia game should never have happened. People storming the gates. Fans fighting. People crawling through air ducts! People without tickets forcing themselves in. Sad. (34:25) Review: Me. (36:25) NPPOD. (37:01) Home Run Derby is tonight! Who ya got!? (43:00) Jalen Brunson signed his new deal with the Knicks. Took a major, major discount for “roster flexibility” wow…. (49:33) Let’s wrap up the show with some things we couldn’t get to. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Charity Lunch Link: https://www.charitybuzz.com/catalog_items/auction-pitch-lunch-with-david-samson-host-of-nothing-2990401 Today’s word of the day is ‘no-no’ as in no hitter as in Paul Skenes as in Pirates as in Brewers as in ace. Paul Skenes was pulled from a no-hitter through 7 innings yesterday. Pirates manager Derek Shelton had quite the BS to tell us about why he was pulled. (11:05) We are 2 days away from the MLB draft. Trade talks are heating up. The Astros want to make a trade badly it looks like. Now they’re in striking distance from the Mariners and the Wild Card. (25:16) NPPOD. (32:23) Review: The Bikeriders. (36:20) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about TNT trying to match an Amazon package to keep NBA rights. Hmmm. (47:15) What is the latest with the Athletics? Have you seen the weather in Las Vegas and Sacramento? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘malice’ as in Malice at Tepper’s Palace as in Copa America as in Uruguay as in Colombia. Colombia wins the semifinals match and then a HUGE brawl takes place. How does this happen? Why did this happen? (11:00) Kawhi Leonard has dropped out of Team USA. Why? Injury. Just 3 days ago he said he was healthy. He was replace by Derrick White, and Jaylen Brown is not happy! (20:15) The NBA is finalizing a $76 billion media rights deal. Oh my lanta. NBC. ESPN. Amazon. Games everyday. Streaming. TV. Everywhere. (33:48) Review: Captain Fantastic. (37:20) Jontay Porter is going to go to jail. Banned from the NBA for gambling scandal. Now jail. (44:25) Wander Franco has been moved to the restricted list. No more pay for him. (47:40) Bobby Miller was optioned to AAA. The Dodgers have no pitching and that wasn’t even enough to keep Miller up. (49:15) NPPOD. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘charged’ as in Wander Franco as in the Tampa Bay Rays. Franco’s career is over. Charged I the Dominican Republic with crimes against a minor. Horrible. Disgusting. See ya. (6:40) The Yankees just keep losing. Worst team in MLB right now. How did they fall so far? (11:33) The Dodgers injured list is All-Star caliber. It’s unreal. Almost the entire rotation is on it. (15:20) Oklahoma State head coach Mike Gundy cannot be serious. I mean… what in the world was that. (30:20) Review: I Am Celine Dion. (33:31) NPPOD. (36:12) What are the Pittsburgh Pirates going to do? Publicly the owner says he’ll spend. Privately he told staff he won’t spend. Hmm. (46:31) A 16-year old star. Lamine Yamal. What a story for Spain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘disrespected’ as in Paul George as in Clippers as in 76ers as in NBA. Was Paul George right to feel that way? The NBA contracts are out of control because of the TV money. George was offered $30 million a year! That’s disrespect? (7:00) Jalen Brunson has a huge decision to make Friday. Will he sign an extension or wait? If he signs Friday it’s one number. If he waits till Summer 2025 it’s a way bigger number! (16:00) Are dynasties done in the NBA? Steph Curry seems to think so. (23:00) Will Joel Embiid win a ring? Can his new Big 3 do it? (25:45) NPPOD. (32:45) Review: Top 5 Musicals. (37:33) The Dallas Stars have a new streaming plan. No more Ballys. Now a free service? (44:15) What is happening with Paramount and Skydance? What does the merger mean? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘19 yutes’ as in MLB as in All-Star Game as in young players as in Elly as in Skenes as in Witt. Youth takeover has come for the All-Star Game. Is this good for baseball? What about snubs? What about hosting the game but not having a bunch of players? (9:50) The Yankees are bad. Very very bad. What is happening with them? Is Aaron Boone safe? Is Brian Cashman going to make moves? Are they going to win a series again? (18:20) Cubs RP Colton Brewer is now on the 60-day IL. Not bad. Injuries happen. But breaking your hand punching a dugout wall? VERY bad! (24:00) Mike Trout is still hurt. Mike Trout hasn’t played on the Fourth of July since 2019. Mike Trout is always hurt. (27:50) Jose Miranda set a record for batting. It’s so impressive we have to mention it. (34:25) Review: Beverly Hills Cop: AxelF. (37:35) Lakers, Lakers, Lakers! LeBron, LeBron, LeBron! Bronny, Bronny, Bronny! (45:00) NPPOD. (47:10) Let’s discuss what’s going on with the NWSL. Angel City FC for sale? A new Disney movie? What about what’s happening in San Diego? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the Nothing Personal Tour! Let's talk Chicago sports! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘family matters’ as in family as in the Winslow family as in the Lakers family as in the James family. The Lakers introduced Bronny James with JJ Redick and Rob Plink. Just some unreal quotes. (11:20) The James family isn’t the only Laker family in the news. Klay Thompson’s dad was not happy with him. Mychal Thompson wanted his son to be a Laker. (17:10) Tim Anderson was DFA’d by the Marlins. The Marlins continue to pay players to not be there. (30:15) NPPOD. (34:30) Review: Furiousa. (38:00) Let me explain what’s happening with the Detroit Tigers broadcaster Craig Monroe. It’s not good. (46:00) The Florida Panthers have a new TV deal. Goodbye, Bally. Hello, Scripps. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘another step’ as in step transaction as in sale as in the Boston Celtics are for sale. Another team. Another couple billion. Why are the Celtics owners selling now? On the same day that Jayson Tatum signs a historic deal? (12:35) Klay Thompson is no longer on the Warriors. It’s over. Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green. 4 rings. 6 Finals. Countless 3-pointers. What else is happening in free agency? Are the Thunder that good now? What is the Lakers plan? (28:01) Review: The Bear Season 3. (32:35) NPPOD. (35:00) Let’s talk about All Star voting and the Boston Red Sox. (42:35) We have an update to everything that went down with the Blackhawks and Kyle Beach from a few years ago. The NHL announced 3 execs are allowed back in the league. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘mayhem’ as in Monday Mayhem as in NBA Free Agency as in Paul George is now a 76er! The Clippers went for it and failed. 5 years. 0 rings. 0 Finals appearances. The PG and Kawhi Leonard partnership was for naught. (9:52) LeBron James opts out of his deal with the Lakers. Why? What else happened? Chris Paul is out of Golden State. (16:30) It’s time for the MLB June recap! What did I get right? What did I get wrong? (20:20) What will I predict in July? (26:20) Let’s talk top storylines from June. It’s Paul Skenes world. (36:20) Review: Ezra. (39:20) There was a big problem in Milwaukee this past weekend. An escalator malfunction at American Family Field led to 11 people getting injured. (45:50) NPPOD. (46:50) We have new rules for the Home Run Derby. Another change — will it work? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘king’s court’ as in LeBron James as in King James as in Prince James as in Bronny James. The Lakers did it. The Lakers drafted Bronny James with the 55th pick of the NBA Draft. Historic moment. (11:30) A jury has ruled against the NFL in its antitrust Sunday Ticket case. This could cost the NFL $14 billion. This could have a major impact on fans, on the league, on players. Let’s discuss what this all means. (24:25) Did you watch the presidential debate last night? The horror show that was Biden and Trump. (39:16) NPPOD. (42:10) Bryce Harper might be in some injury trouble. Hamstrings are bad. (45:20) Will Shohei Ohtani be in the home run derby? Are the Dodgers going to protect him? Does he need the protection? (50:10) How much is Stephen A. Smith worth? He wants big money. He wants to be everywhere. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘drafty’ as in the NBA Draft as in France as in the takeover as in first round. Wemby took over the draft and the league last year from France. Now this year, we have 3 top 6 picks that are all Frenchmen. We also had some big announcements about the Heat and the Suns. The Heat signed Bam to a big deal, but reportedly Jimmy Butler won’t sign. Suns owner Mat Ishbia said Kevin Durant is a Sun and will be a Sun. (14:50) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about the Texas Rangers and why it’s so hard for teams to repeat as champions. (23:35) NPPOD. (33:10) Review: Singles. (36:41) Alex Morgan was left off the Women’s National soccer team. Why? Is this a Caitlin Clark situation? (42:20) What is going on in Arizona? We have the Diamondbacks trying to get stadium funding. Get ready! (47:20) Let’s talk about ticket brokers and why this is so important. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘Junior Circuit’ as in the American League as in baseball as in trades as in contenders as in the Yankees as in the Orioles as in the Mariners. What’s going on in the American League and what will contenders do? Is Vladdy Jr going to be traded? (17:30) NPPOD. (21:20) The Nets traded Mikal Bridges to the Knicks! The Nova Knicks are complete! What a wild night in NBA trades! (28:30) Is Klay Thompson going to stay with Golden State? (36:10) Review: Disciple. (39:25) We have a candidate for ASS of the year. (46:45) The Jaguars have a new stadium deal. More and more public money. Fans said it would never happen again. And it continues to happen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘champions’ as in Stanley Cup as in Florida Panthers as in South Florida. They got it done. Greg Cote is vindicated. Connor McDavid still won the Conn Smythe Trophy. But the Florida Panthers are the champions! (15:05) JJ Redick has been introduced about as Lakers head coach. He said he didn’t talk to LeBron about the job beforehand… hmmmmm. (27:30) Review:The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare. (30:10) NPPOD. (31:00) The Cleveland Guardians are the best team in baseball. Yes, that team. Ramirez, and Naylor, and Kwan. How about Stephen Vogt in his debut? (39:30) The Arizona Coyotes are no more. We already knew part of that, but now we know all of it. (47:50) Charlotte is giving money to David Tepper. Sorry, everyone. Public-financing is never going away! (51:00) The Marlins are giving away team streaming. 2 months for fans. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘historic’ as in history in the making as in Stanley Cup Game 7 as in Panthers as in Oilers. Are the Panthers going to win its first Cup? Are the Oilers going to overcome a 0-3 deficit? Is Connor McDavid still overrated? Did the LeBatard Show curse their own team? (11:00) JJ Redick will be the new head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. (18:25) Have you ever seen an injured pitching staff like the Marlins? 6 starters on the IL. Ranging from TJ to back injuries. How does something like this happen? Bad luck? (25:50) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about Trevor Bauer tweeting about suing MLB if he remains unsigned. Okay. (34:30) Review: Tell Them You Love Me (37:25) Let’s get to some Monday Morning Major League quick hitters: game ending on a pitch clock violation; Diaz suspended for sticky stuff; rookie suspended for PED use 2 days after debut. (47:00) NPPOD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Let’s welcome in Mike Ryan Ruiz! He’s finally joining us on NPDS! We start things off with how he’s doing at Meadowlark Media and what his life is like as an EP. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘bean’ as in hit by pitch as in MLB as in control as in velocity. What is happening in baseball? Why are so many batters getting hit? These past 4 seasons have been record-setting. Mookie Betts is out. Aaron Judge got hit. Nolan Arenado got hit. (10:52) Rest in peace to the great Willie Mays. Tonight MLB plays at Rickwood and it was meant to honor Mays who sadly died a few days ago. (19:30) Monty Williams got fired by the Detroit Pistons after one season. The Pistons now owe Monty $65 million. I cannot believe it. (27:30) The Boston Celtics won the title. Did you watch? Did you care? (35:30) Review: Goodfellas. (42:40) Are the Panthers going to blow a 3-0 lead? Is this really about to happen? (48:00) What is happening with the Chiefs and Royals with Kansas? Is Missouri going to lose both teams? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’ve got Ariel Helwani on the show. Yes, that one. Let’s talk some Montreal. Let’s talk some MMA. Let’s see where this goes! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome in Bob Costas! Broadcasting legend is back on Nothing Personal for the first time in 2022. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘Alberta’ as in Edmonton as in Canada as in the NHL Stanley Cup Final. The Florida Panthers now lead 3-0. Hockey in South Florida… huh! It seems improbable that this is the case. (7:10) Trevor Lawrence just got a monster deal from the Jaguars. What is Jacksonville doing? Lawrence still had 2 years left on his deal. Now, by total guarantee, he’s the 4th highest paid QB in the NFL. (18:55) The Big 12 is for sale. The name of the conference. The schools in the conference. The athletic departments in the conference. Everything is for sale now. (34:30) Review: Brats. (38:40) NPPOD. (39:50) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about Dan Hurley and what he said on the Le Batard Show yesterday. Is this guy serious? (48:20) Let’s talk some baseball. Pitching and defense wins rings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘the logo’ as in Jerry West as in the Lakers as in the Grizzlies as in the Warriors as in the Clippers. All star. Champion. Executive. What a legacy Jerry West leaves behind. (11:00) Are the Celtics going to sweep the Mavericks? The Celtics just look like a complete team. The Mavericks look like Luka and Kyrie. That’s it. That’s the series. (19:40) Dodgers made a trade for Cavan Biggio. Is this the Dodgers being the Dodgers or a nothing burger? (30:00) Review: Jurassic Park. (35:45) NPPOD. (37:40) Let’s update a bunch of wait to see predictions I’ve made. (45:20) The hot dog wars are back on. Netflix announced an eat off between Chestnut and Kobayashi! WHOA! (51:00) STAY OFF THE FIELD! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘retinaculum’ as in an injury as in the ankle as in tendons as in Kristaps Porzingis as in the NBA Finals. Oh boy. What are the Celtics going to do? The team said whether he plays or not is up to the team doctors. Is this how the Mavericks get back into the series? (9:45) NPPOD. (11:45) NHL is not going to discipline players after the Stanley Cup game. Dirty hits. Players thrown out. Penalties. Everything. (17:05) Where is Aaron Rodgers? (29:01) Review: Rumble - The Indians who Rocked the World. (33:20) Mike Tomlin got an extension with the Steelers. Russell Wilson finally spoke. (39:50) We have a hot dog beef. Nathan’s hot dog eating contest. Joey Chestnut banned. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘unrequited’ as in Dan Hurley as in the Lakers as in UConn as in left at the altar. That’s right, Dan Hurley turned down a massive offer the Lakers. The Connecticut governor got involved. His wife possibly was involved. Everyone was involved. But UConn is home and now the Lakers must scramble. (12:00) The Florida Panthers have taken a 2-0 lead in the Stanley Cup Final. A chippy game. Players thrown out. Let’s talk about taxes though. People want different salary caps based off income taxes. HUH. (23:12) NPPOD. (32:27) Review: How to Rob a Bank. (38:40) The Yankees captain Aaron Judge called out fans for their treatment of Trent Grisham. This is important, because only someone like Judge could do this. (44:08) Buster Onley had his account hacked and panic broke out. (48:40) Luis Robert was not traded to the Phillies. Didn’t happen. But he is on the trade block. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘31-5’ as in the NBA Finals as in the Boston Celtics as in the Dallas Mavericks. The Celtics took Game 2. It’s been ugly, but Tatum and Brown and Holiday are getting it done. Luka has been a turnover machine. The rest of the Mavs can’t shoot. (8:40) The Stanley Cup Final is happening. Did you watch Game 1? The Florida Panthers look like the worse team and still beat the Oilers 3-0. (16:00) Mets owner Steve Cohen met the media and talked about the Mets this year. He mentioned trades. He mentioned fans. He mentioned his new president. (24:17)The MLB London series took place and let’s discuss some things that were said. Bryce Harper wants an in-season tournament in London. Some Mets players joined in and said they agree going to London for two games is a bit much. (33:15) Review: Hit Man. (38:00) Caitlin Clark was left of Team USA. She’s not going to Paris for the Olympics. Why? (48:10) NPPOD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘Game 1’ as in NBA Finals as in the Boston Celtics as in the Dallas Mavericks as in blowout city. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown and Kristaps Porzingis were just too much for Luka and company. (7:10) Adam Silver met with the media yesterday for the first time before the NBA Finals to be questioned on myriad of topics: Caitlin Clark, NBA TV rights, TNT, and more! Here’s what he said. (17:20) Let’s talk about the MLB London Series. Mets vs Phillies. Everyone wants to play overseas. Why? (25:30) What’s wrong with Juan Soto’s forearm? How bad is it? Is this the end for the Yankees? (34:02) Review: American Nightmare. (37:10) We are at a scary place with social media. Fake news. Misinformation. A.I. posts. How do we know what’s real or not? (43:00) NPPOD. (47:00) The Timberwovles sale is still happening. Or is it still happening? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘finally’ as in the Finals as in the NBA Finals as in The Boston Celtics as in the Dallas Mavericks. Who do you have? Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown or Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving? Jason Kidd could be joining an exclusive group with a win. Joe Mazzulla would be in a league of his own with a win. (9:20) NPPOD. (19:00) Jordan Montgomery was booed off the field by Diamondbacks fans. He’s been bad. Boras Four. STINK! (30:06) Review: A League of Their Own. (34:20) There’s been quite the update on Jontay Porter. Remember he was ban for life from the NBA for gambling on basketball. This update is wild. (41:10) Kansas wants the Kansas City Chiefs. The Kansas City Chiefs are in Kansas City, Missouri… not Kansas City, Kansas. (49:00) Dan Hurley is now the favorite for the Lakers head coach? What? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘lifetime’ as in lifetime ban as in Marcano as in Padres as in Pirates as in MLB as in MiLB as in gambling. It’s the first lifetime ban in a century for an MLB player. MLB came out and dropped the hammer. (11:00) Ippei Mizuhara pleaded guilty yesterday and Shohei Ohtani has been cleared by baseball. Ohtani is good to go. (17:08) JJ Redick is the favorite for the Lakers head coach. Rich Paul said LeBron has nothing to do with the search. LeBron James has a podcast with JJ Redick. No dots to connect there! (29:00) Review: Review: The Anti-Social Network. (32:50) The Marlins had to DFA Avisail Garcia. And they owe him a big chunk of change. Congrats, Jeter! (40:15) NPPOD. (41:40) It’s time to talk about catchers. The positioning they have near the batter’s box is not right. MLB is going to fix it. (47:40) The Mavericks gave a contract extension to the GM the eve of the NBA Finals. Why? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘existential crisis’ as in baseball as in MLB as gambling as in injuries as in Tommy John as in problems. We have a player facing a lifetime ban for the first time since gambling has become what it has. Tucupita Marcano of the Padres reportedly bet on baseball last year as a member of the Pirates. Woof. (12:34) More and more and more injuries happening to starting pitching. Elbow and elbows and elbows. (19:00) The Carolina Panthers want public money for stadium upgrades. It never ends. You might think it will, but it doesn’t. (25:00) Justin Jefferson is getting big money. WR are now the offensive money makers. Sorry RB, you aint coming back. (33:22) Review: Spacey Unmasked. (37:25) Sports media and hot take culture is at a boiling point. Where is the line? Where is the integrity? This Caitlin Clark conversation has become everything it shouldn’t. (46:00) NPPOD. (48:20) I made a mistake about Top 100 players. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘35.1 or 37.6’ as in how much of the MLB season is already over. Can you believe it? Let’s recap the biggest storylines from May. I’ll review my May predictions. And then we’ll look ahead to June. It all starts with the Yankees. (9:13) What were some of the biggest surprises in May? (14:34) Let’s review my May predictions. (16:19) Here are my predictions for June! (20:50) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about the WNBA and Caitlin Clark. Hard fouls. Dirty fouls. Social media comments. Why do players dislike Clark so much? (36:30) Review: The Fall Guy. (39:00) Stanley Cup Final is here! Panthers vs Oilers! (42:09) Tommy Pham may not be in baseball much longer. (48:00) NPPOD. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘road wins’ as in the Florida Panthers as in the Dallas Mavericks as in playoffs! Let’s start with the Panthers taking a series lead against the Rangers. I was at the game. How are road teams so successful now? (8:00) Donald Trump was found guilty on all 34 felony charges against him. First president ever convicted of a crime. Wow. (21:10) The Dallas Mavericks are headed to the NBA Finals! Luka and Kyrie! Did you see Mark Cuban wasn’t the one who got the trophy? (29:50) NPPOD. (33:55) Review: A Man in Full. (36:50) The Tampa Bay Rays released new renderings for its new stadium in St. Pete. There’s still no deal. The project is massive. Will it get done? (46:30) The NBA media rights deals are not done yet. Is Warner Bros. Discovery out? Is TNT really going to lose the NBA? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘dumpster fire’ as in the Mets as in Steve Cohen as in Edwin Diaz as in Pete Alonso as in Jorge Lopez. What a day for the Mets yesterday. I cannot remember a day like this for a team. IL trips. Injuries. A player ejected, making a scene, then getting DFA’d. (13:30) Well things actually are worse for the Mets. Steve Cohen has hit a real roadblock when it comes to his casino of dreams. A NY senator does not want what Cohen wants. (25:50) White Sox manager Pedro Grifol came out in defense of owner Jerry Reinsdorf. This is why. (37:30) Review: In the Name of the Father. (40:30) NPPOD. (43:20) Scottie Scheffler had all charges dropped against him. (50:30) Breaking news: a new women’s basketball league is coming. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘13/39’ as in Luka Doncic as in Kyrie Irving as in Mavericks as in Timberwolves as in NBA playoffs. The Mavericks shot terribly. The Timberwolves found late life. (9:13) The Panthers tied things up with an OT winner vs the Rangers. The 3rd straight overtime game! How can you not love playoff hockey!? (12:56) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about the Toronto Blue Jays and what’s gone wrong there. Did the Jays miss their window? (25:06) MLB announced that the Negro League stats will now be in the MLB history books. That means that all MLB stats have changed. Should they have? (38:00) Review: Atlas. (40:17) What’s the latest on the Athletics and Las Vegas? (46:20) Blake Snell said something that needs to be discussed. Is MLB finally done with Scott Boras? (51:02) Charter flight talk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘touched by an angel’ as in Angel Hernandez as in umpire as in see ya! The worst umpire in baseball, the worst umpire in my career is finally gone. Retired. (12:10) Ronald Acuña tore his ACL. Sad for him. Sad for the Braves. It’s his 2nd one in 3 seasons. (20:35) The Dodgers and Mets start a 3-game series today. Let’s take a look at both of these teams, expectations, moves, who needs this series more. (36:16) Review: Challengers. (39:30) We need to talk about the life of Bill Walton. (42:50) The Boston Celtics are headed to the NBA Finals. 2nd time in 3 years. The Pacers had chances and blew it. (47:44) NPPOD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ’owners meetings’ as in Rob Manfred as in MLB as in umpires as in jerseys as in Athletics as in Nike as in Sacramento as in robots as in Ballys. These latest owners meetings were packed with great quotes from the commissioner. (17:20) Let’s talk about Ticketmaster. The Department of Justice has sued Live Nation Entertainment. What happens now? No more crazy fees? (29:05) Review: Survivor 46. (33:10) The Boston Celtics are running away with the Eastern Conference. Big win on Thursday. Pacers are hurt. (38:46) NPPOD. (42:40) The NCAA has agreed to let schools pay players. Welcome to the new world of college athletics. What is going to be the end of this? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ’7 billion’ as in NBA as in ESPN as in Amazon as in NBC as TNT. Is TNT left out of the NBA game because it got a little too cocky? What does this mean for the players? What does this mean for the WNBA? (15:36) The NHL and NBA playoffs are going on right now. The Panthers took down the Rangers at MSG. Luka Doncic and the Mavericks held off the Timberwolves in the NBA. (29:45) Review: Parenthood. (33:45) Why is Hal Steinbrenner still talking!? The Yankees are winning! You don’t have to say the quiet part out loud! (42:18) NPPOD. (47:45) Private equity has come for college sports. College football is an expensive game. Lawsuits are an expensive game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ’Hader Rules’ as in Josh Hader as in rules to pitching as in the Brewers as in the Padres as in the Astros as in arbitration. What were the Hader Rules and could any other MLB player use them? (17:05) The Boston Celtics stole Game 1 vs the Pacers in OT. A thriller! (27:01) NPPOD. (31:28) Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire. (35:31) Is the NFL finally entering the modern world? Is it time we finally retire the chain gang? Is it happening!? (43:45) Aaron Rodgers is back. So his quotes are back. (46:20) It’s NIL talk again. We have our first giant lawsuit. Yay! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ’aces wild’ as starting pitchers as in aces as in top of rotation guys as in Chris Sale as in Gerrit Cole as in Kodai Senga. Let’s give some health updates! We’ll start with Chris Sale. He has been lights out these past few weeks. Hasn’t given up a run in 20 straight innings. Past 5 starts have been close to perfect. (14:45) Gerrit Cole is still on the IL. He’s trying to find his way back from an elbow issue. (17:46) Kodai Senga had a setback. Last week it was mechanics. This week it’s a setback. (21:30) David Fletcher, welcome to the Mizuhara club. The former Angels 2B was caught up in the same illegal gambling ring that Ippei Mizuhara was. (32:30) Review: Arthur The King. (36:14) NPPOD. (41:36) Fanatics is suing Marvin Harrison Jr. Why? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ’home court disadvantage’ as in Game 7 as in NBA Playoffs as in Pacers as in Knicks as in Timberwolves as in Nuggets. The Pacers crushed the Knicks to advance. Shooting a record percentage from the field. Knicks had no response. And I was there to witness it. (7:11) The Denver Nuggets blew it. 20 point lead at home in a Game 7 and they lost to the Timberwolves. Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert did it. Nikola Jokic and the reigning champs went home. (14:35) The Dallas Mavericks advanced on free throws! What a wild ending vs the Thunder. (19:45) NPDS MLB weekend in review! Let’s start with Shota Imanga and what he’s been able to do for the Cubs this year. What about Edwin Diaz and his bad bad bad pitching form? Paul Skenes crushed it on Friday for the Pirates. (33:30) Review: Bronx Zoo ’90. (37:20) What is going on with the Las Vegas Aces? Another investigation into the Aces because of benefits. (46:08) NPPOD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ’exceptional circumstances’ as in Scottie Scheffler as in arrested as in PGA Championship. What!? (9:10) Is Juan Soto going to be a Yankee for life? That’s what Hal Steinbrenner said. Why would he say that!? Never say that! (21:00) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? What is going on with Steve Cohen and the Mets? Sellers? (32:45) Review: One Life. (37:20) It’s time to talk some hockey! Go Rangers Go! Brad Marchand for the Bruins said something that he definitely should not have! (44:00) Basketball talk! Were the Nuggets asleep for Game 6? (46:20) NPPOD. (51:00) We need to talk about MLS and Messi. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ’addicted’ as in my phone as in as in 3am chat room conversations with Apple. (4:50) Alright, time to get to the NFL. We had schedule releases, but first let’s chat about Harrison Butker again. The NFL commented on his thoughts. What was interesting about the schedule? Who runs primetime? Who isn’t part of these games? (14:30) NFL on Netflix on Christmas. Football all the time. Football! Football! Football! (18:50) NBA Playoff update! The Celtics are moving on! The Luka’s have taken a series lead over the Thunder! The Cavaliers season ended and 2 seconds later we had to hear about Mitchell and Bickerstaff’s futures… why!? (26:10) NPPOD. (32:40) Review: The Truman Show. (37:10) The Astros find themselves in poor light again. Ronel Blanco has been suspended for 10 games for sticky stuff. Here we go again! (44:20) The Caitlin Clark Effect is real. Record-setting debut. But will it impact the rest of the league? (50:30) Let’s talk about the Atlanta Braves. Do you like that they’re owned by a public company and not by a single person? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ’prowl’ as in on the prowl as in Nuggets as in the Knicks as in playoff basketball. Nikola Jokic is incredible. He dominated the DPOY in Rudy Gobert. Rudy Gobert also had to pay a big fine for doing the money gesture at the refs! (12:00) Knicks fever! Get excited! One win away from a conference finals! (16:13) Caitlin Clark debuted in the WNBA. It was a shaky start for sure. 10 turnovers. Fever lost by 21 points. (21:00) NPPOD. (22:45) Are the Jaguars moving to London? Nope! Another new stadium deal! (34:00) Review: Last Stop in Yuma County. (36:33) Harrison Butker gave a commencement speech and boy was it a doozy. He said some things that could find himself in hot water with the Chiefs. (45:00) We have another Bally’s, Diamond Sports, RSN, and MLB update. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ’greedy’ as in the NFL as in schedule release as in kickoff games as in networks as in Tom Brady as in Patrick Mahomes. The NFL continues to just win every offseason. It’s ridiculous! (11:05) LeBron James was wining it up at the Cavaliers playoff game last night. But it’s time to talk about Bronny James. Is he worth a draft pick? He was cleared medically by the NBA. (18:35) The Boston Celtics took a 3-1 series lead over the Cavaliers. No Donovan Mitchell, no matter. What about the Mavericks blowing a late home lead against the Thunder? Hit your free throws! (26:22) WNBA season is here. The Caitlin Clark era is here! (31:45) Review: Rather. (37:10) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about which teams will be buyers and who will be sellers. This early!? (45:00) MLB is on Roku. What does this say about the health of MLB broadcast rights? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ’debut’ as in first career start as in Paul Skenes as in the Pittsburgh Pirates as in top prospects. Skenes made his first start against the Cubs and it was insane. One of the worst pitching innings in baseball happened after Skenes was removed. (8:11) Kodai Senga injury update! (14:30) The Yankees are heating up. Aaron Judge is heating up. Panic down. (17:00) Seth Lugo is performing at an elite level for the Royals. Who saw that coming? (21:50) The Knicks lost both road games to the Pacers. The Pacers blew them out the water in Game 4. Woof! (28:20) The Denver Nuggets have tied up the series vs the Minnesota Timberwolves. Can not count them out! (36:13) Review: Love Lies Bleeding. (39:50) The Suns have hired Mike Budenholzer to a huge contract. Another giant contract given away by Mat Ishbia. Why is he doing this? (44:20) Did anyone know the NBA draft lottery was yesterday? Atlanta Hawks are the draft lottery winners! A 3% chance and they did it! Sorry Pistons fans… another year another stinker and another loss in the lottery! (50:30) NPPOD. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ’full support’ as in Frank Vogel as in Mat Ishbia as in the Phoenix Suns as in Kevin Durant as in Devin Booker. Vogel gets fired after one season. Signed a monster contract and that’s that. Booker and Durant keep cycling through coaches. What is happening? (12:30) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about the Hornets hiring an ast. coach from the Celtics who are in the playoffs. (18:23) We have a Patrick Beverley update. (20:00) Netflix in on Christmas? Netflix in on the NFL? Oh boy… remember when they didn’t want live sports? (29:21) Review: Monkey Man (35:40) NPPOD. (38:50) The St. Louis Cardinals have lost their way. (46:40) Is it time to trade Mason Miller? Will the Athletics get the best deal now? What is the trade value of a closer? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ’anticipation’ as in the Pittsburgh Pirates as in Paul Skenes. His time has come. He throws gas. He could be the next great. Why are the Pirates calling him up now? Why not wait? (11:20) Ippei Mizuhara will plead guilty to federal crimes. He used $17 million of Shohei Ohtani’s money to pay off gambling debts. What a wild case this has been. (19:30) The New York Knicks have done it again! 2-0 series lead. Playoff basketball. Jalen Brunson is a bad man! And Nikola Jokic has won his 3rd MVP. Wasn’t even close. (24:11) NPPOD. (31:46) Review: Inglorious Basterds. (36:00) It’s time to talk streaming bundles. Another day, another bundle. When will it end? (45:20) The WNBA is going to have chartered flights for players. It’s a new thing for them. Good for them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices