Nothing Personal with David Samson

An update on Wednesday’s show. We are still looking to hire a researcher for a part-time/one-off project we are working on. Please send your resume to nothingpersonalds@gmail.com if you are interested. 

Today’s word of the day is ‘void’ as in the Angels Stadium land deal has been voided because of the owning FBI investigation into corruption of the Anaheim city council. It is a major story involving the Mayor, the Angels, and now Disney. (18:25) So what’s happening in Washington D.C. ? It looks like the Commanders may have met a big snag in their hunt for a new stadium. The Virginia State Senate is now saying they do not support Daniel Snyder at all. (28:45) Review: Survivor Season 42. (34:00) What is going on with the NFL Pro Bowl? Is it still a thing? Will it still be a thing? Why is it a thing?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are not just a sports show. We hope you can listen to us when it matters. This is not a political show. This is not a sermon. This is an open and honest conversation about what happened in this country yesterday. What happened 8 days ago. What happened at Sandy Hook and Columbine and Majory Stoneman Douglas and Virginia Tech and every other mass shooting that we may have forgotten. Yesterday 19 children and 2 teachers were murdered by an 18 year old in Uvalde, Texas. This was preventable. This never should have happened. We need to be better. We need to do more. We need our politicians to do more. We are going to do more.

Nothing Personal will be offering up a position to work on a project for us. Please send your resume to nothingpersonalds@gmail.com if you are interested. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘Danny Boy’ as in dan Snyder is back. He never left. But he’s back. What are the Washington Commanders up to now? Well, the NFL reportedly wants him out. Huh? What else could possibly be happening? Now they bought some land outside of D.C. in Virginia. Fans are furious. They want a new stadium, but not there! (13:30) Josh Donaldson has been suspended for one game for calling Tim Anderson ‘Jackie’. He has appealed. Let’s discuss the statement that MLB released. (23:55) Review: On the Count of Three. (26:45) So You Wanna Talk To Samson!? Someone asked me about Mike Clevinger and if the Padres regret trading with Cleveland. (32:55) What happened with the Florida Panthers? Swept by the Tampa Bay Lightning. Woof. A report came out that the Florida Panthers went to a strip club between Games 3 and 4. Hello! (40:40) NPPOD. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘stranded’ as in stuck as in left as in a snow storm hit Colorado this weekend and I was trapped . Maybe you’ll find this story enjoyable. Maybe you’ll hit the skip button. Who knows!? (27:35) Review: Taking Chance. (30:35) So You Wanna Talk To Samson!? Someone asked me about the comment that Josh Donaldson made to Tim Anderson over the weekend. Yasmani Grandal confronted Donaldson and a tussle ensued. The question asked of me was whether or not I believe that MLB will now suspend Donaldson. (46:55) NPPOD

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s a mailbag! You asked questions and now you’re getting the answers! Go to Apple Podcasts and let a 5-star review with your question! First up, someone asked me about Dee Gordon hit a home run in the first at-bat after Jose Fernandez’s death. This is an emotional one. (18:00) Someone asked me about building Marlins Park. They wanted to know about how the dimensions were chosen. Aaron Judge should like this. (34:20) Someone asked me what the 2nd smartest trait of GM is. You should all know the first trait by now. (39:35) Someone asked me about what my life after MLB is like. They wanted to know what I think the perception of me from people still in baseball is. Interesting. (46:00) Someone asked me who the top 5 funniest people I’ve met in real life are.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘600’ as in episode 600 as in there are now 600 numbered episodes of Nothing Personal. Who would have thought that? Thank you all for listening, watching, telling your friends, rating and reviewing. We’re just getting started! (2:20) Nick Saban is not happy with how other programs are addressing NIL. Nick Saban said Alabama players got $3M the right way! Nick Saban said Jimbo Fisher and Texas A&M bought his players the wrong way! I mean… cmon Nick Saban. Be better. (12:30) So You Wanna Talk To Samson!? Someone asked me about Max Scherzer’s injury. He left the game with a side injury. He doesn’t think it’s major. This person wanted to know about MRI machines and if every stadium had one. (23:00) Review: Infinite Storm/Vertical Limit. (28:00) Messi is coming to America! A report came out that Messi will buy 35% of Inter Miami and be a player too. What?! (32:35) Yesterday there was a major announcement in US Soccer. The Men’s and Women’s teams will now receive equal pay. Let’s discuss this historic announcement. (40:00) NPPOD. (42:30) Chris Padddack is out for the year again. He’ll have to undergo Tommy John surgery for the 2nd time. He was traded a month ago from the San Diego Padres to the Minnesota Twins. Another Preller trade.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘wiretap’ as in Watergate as in the FBI as in Anaheim mayor Harry Sidhu was caught on a call allegedly trying to get millions from the Los Angels Angels for its stadium land sale. Uh oh! The sale would be for $320M and Sidhu wanted a piece of this pie. What does this all mean!? (14:11) And just north in Oakland we have the Athletics president talking about the team and relating it to Major League the movie. No fans are going to games. The team wants a new ballpark. Just another Tuesday in MLB. (20:35) What is going on with the Red Sox still? Still losing. Still struggling. Coming off of one of the worst Nathan Eovaldi starts of all time. Allowed 5 home runs in one inning! Can Alex Cora turn this thing around? (30:30) Review: Summer Days, Summer Nights. (34:00) So You Wanna Talk To Samson!? Someone asked me about Matt Harvey’s 60-game suspension for violation the MLB Drug Policy. He was involved in the drug distribution with Tyler Skaggs. Was this enough of a suspension? (43:30) Mets announced an update on Jacob deGrom — and it meant nothing. (46:00) NPPOD

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘conclusion’ as in the end result as in finished as in Deshaun Watson’s investigation by the NFL is almost done. Watson is meeting with the NFL this week and then Roger Goodell and his expert team will either bring down the hammer or… not. Will this case end like Trevor Bauer’s did? Is the NFL using MLB’s ruling as a case study in what to do here? Will Watson play at all this year? (22:40) So You Wanna Talk To Samson!? Someone asked me about Nestor Cortes and his latest struggles with social media. Some Twitter people went through his old tweets and brought them to light from 10 years ago. Cortes says he’s getting off social media ‘for a few days’. Interesting. (32:40) Review: The Lost City. (36:20) The NBA Conference Finals are here. Miami vs Boston. Golden State vs Dallas. Some superstars, some good role players, some good coaching. Luka. Steph Curry. Jayson Tatum. Jimmy Butler. And an NBA Draft Lottery to boot. (43:40) The Kansas City Royals want a new stadium. The Kansas City Royals want a new hitting coach. The Royal have fired the hitting coach in May. Why?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today is a deep episode. It’s not right to start about sports when so much happens outside the sports world that we cannot ignore.

Today’s word of the day is ‘moment of silence’ as in this weekend showcased exactly where we are as a nation. Six mass shootings over the weekend. Buffalo. Milwaukee. Orange County. Houston. Thoughts and prayers. That’s what all these government officials rush to Twitter to say. We hold a moment of silence before sporting events. But, where is the real action? (19:40) Supreme Court justice Clarence Thomas had some comments on the “leak” from the Supreme Court. Let’s discuss this. (29:35) Review: Take Me Out (37:00) Game 7 madness took place this weekend. Bucks got dismantled by the Celtics. Luka Doncic sent the Phoenix Suns to another universe. Hockey delivered though. Overtime thrillers! (41:45) NPPOD - Let’s talk about Albert Pujols. He made his pitching debut! 2nd oldest player to make their pitching debut in MLB. What about the Reds game?! They threw a no-hitter and LOST to the Pirates. What?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s another Samson Sit-Down. This time Drew Robinson joins the show. Drew is a former Major League and Minor League baseball player. In April of 2020 he attempted suicide. Today we’ll go through mental health, baseball, strength, courage, and who Drew Robinson is and what he wants from his new life. 

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

800-273-8255

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘tossed’ as in thrown out as in the Ump Show is here as in Kevin Plawecki and Alex Cora were thrown of last night’s Red Sox game for arguing a bad called strike three. It was a bad pitch. A bad call. And boom! Ump show. This cannot be. (14:00) Jim Crane has fired back at Brian Cashman and the Yankees. Cashman talked about the Astros sign-stealing and Jim Crane wasn’t pleased with the rock throwing. The Yankees cheated, too. (24:50) Review: Minx. (29:30) Let’s talk about Kyrie Irving. Nets GM Sean Marks had his end of season press conference and talked about Kyrie and his deal. Kyrie has a player option for next year and then nothing. Will the Nets offer him long term? (38:00) NPPOD - Giannis’ Greatness. (41:10) Today is the day! NFL schedule release day! Are you throwing a party? Are you ready for some football!?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘no no’ as in no hits allowed as in the Los Angeles Angels have thrown a no hitter. Reid Detmers threw it. A rookie. He’s the youngest to do so since 2006. Mike Trout is hitting bombs. Shohei Ohtani is finding his groove. The Angels might be good! But is this more about baseball hitters not being good at making contact? (10:45) Tom Brady is headed to Fox Sports after his playing career as the lead analyst. That’s a huge get for Fox. The bigger story is the reported salary. 10 years for $375M! What!? (25:55) Review: The Mystery of Marilyn Monroe. (30:15) NPPOD - The Sixers stink. They do. What a terrible game against Miami. Embiid was bad. Doc Rivers has lost it. (37:55) Senne v. MLB has settled. This is major news. Let me explain what this lawsuit by minor leaguers against MLB is all about. (43:35) The Saudi Golf Tour brought to you by Greg Norman is putting serious money into the tour. Yesterday it was announced $2B in funding. $25M pools for the tournaments. PGA said if you join you are done with us. Will players still go?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘expansion’ as in international as in trying to grow as in more and more and more and more! That’s what sports leagues are doing now. The NFL is playing games in London AND Germany this year. MLB may play a series in Paris and the have games for London. The WNBA wants two more teams. The NBA wants more teams! The NBA even announced preseason games in Abu Dhabi! F1 is expanded to the US. The sports takeover continues! (19:15) It’s already May 10th. 40 games in. 25% of the season done. Is it time to hit the panic button for some teams yet? The Tigers? The Red Sox? The Rangers? The Phillies? What about the teams off to great starts like the Dodgers, Angels, Yankees, and Mets? (34:30) Review: Bad Vegan. (41:55) NPPOD. (44:00) Let’s talk about parenting really quick. A story came out about parents making their children run marathons. No. Absolutely not.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘harassed’ as in harassment as in taking heckling too far as in Chris Paul cam out with a tweet after the Suns loss to the Mavericks and said some things. People responded saying ‘no way is it true! I need video to believe it!’ But then the Mavericks came out with a statement saying a fan was indeed removed for harassing Chris Paul’s mother and wife! It was a younger fan, but he should have known better. (10:10) Ja Morant is doubtful to play tonight. He had his knee pulled in the Warriors game and had to be helped off the court. Was it dirty? Does the NBA have a problem? There is an issue in these NBA playoffs. Whether it’s fouls or officiating or fans or tough play… (18:50) F1 Miami happened. The Miami Grand Prix. We are a formula 1 podcast now. Was it a big success? Is an American takeover happening? (26:30) Review: Winning Time. (30:00) The Kentucky Derby happened. Did you watch? One of the biggest upsets ever happened. At 80-1 Rich Strike stormed from the pack and won it all. (32:50) NPPOD. (38:35) You remember the umpire who pulled the ump show on Madison Bumgarner? He said sorry. Big whoop! (42:00) Let’s talk about the balls again. MLB balls are back. Are the balls juiced? Are the balls dead? What’s with the balls?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘abandoned’ as in abandoned our commitment to winning as in remember when Phil Castellini told Cincinnati fans he was going to move the team and the fans need to be better and all that nonsense. The Reds are 3-22 through 25 games. Just bad. As bad as you can get. Is it tanking? Is it payroll manipulation? How did we get here? (14:20) The New York Mets came back from 6 runs down in the top of the 9th inning to beat the Philadelphia Phillies. The Mets scored 7 runs! It was hit after hit after hit after hit! How is a collapse like this handled after the game? How warm is Girardi’s hot seat? (25:15) Review: Ambulance. (28:30) So You Wanna Talk To Samson!? Someone asked me about Formula 1 in Miami this weekend. It’s here. The craze has taken South Beach. (39:45) NPPOD. (43:30) Sergio Garcia was on a hot mic and was furious with a PGA official. He said he was done with the Tour. He’s had enough. But not enough money because the Saudi-backed tour is in his sights. Ha.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘manicure’ as in getting your nails did as in Would You Like French Tips as in did MLB umpire Ryan Wills check Madison Bumgarner’s finger to see where he got his nails done? Nope. Wills was checking Bumgarner for foreign substances. But, the problem was he was staring directly at Bumgarner’s face. It was a complete ump show. A joke. And the umpire tossed Bumgarner for getting mad. What? (10:25) Ben Simmons is going to have surgery on his back. He didn’t play a game all season. He was rumored to play in Game 4 of the Nets getting swept by the Celtics. What went into all this? Why wait this long? (16:50) Review: Hand of God. Diego Maradona’s jersey from that game was sold as the most expensive jersey ever sold. Now the controversy starts as Maradona’s daughter says it’s the wrong one! The auction house says it’s the right one! (26:15) What is happening with the sale of Chelsea? Roman Abramovich is trying to sell the team. He’s had all his assets frozen. Now he’s changed his mind about that details of the sale. Dodgers owner Todd Boehly wants the team. Let’s dissect. (33:00) NPPOD. (38:45) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Let’s talk quickly about Dave Chappelle and the incident at the Hollywood Bowl. Now let’s talk about travel. The NFL is heading overseas. Someone asked me about how travel for these is schedule and set up.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘deep scar’ as in Ryan Tannehill opened up to the media yesterday about losing. We never really care about the losers, do we? But, Tannehill spoke about needing therapy after the Titans playoff loss to the Bengals. He was having nightmares. Spoke about the deep scars. What about being a mentor to Malik Willis? Tannehill said it wasn’t his job. Interesting. (15:55) Jaguars owner Shad Khan sounded off on Urban Meyer. He was fired in his first season by Khan. Absolute dumpster fire. So what did Khan have to say? (23:50) The NCAA is becoming a full blown public pay for play scheme. Players making millions. Players leaving schools for more money. Transfers. Tampering. No guidelines. No rules. Is this right? (37:25) Review: The Outfit. (41:35) NPPOD. Let’s talk about the NBA playoff. They have been PHYSICAL. Two games of Warriors-Grizzlies and two ejections already. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘overruled’ as in a leak came from the Supreme Court last night of a 98-page opinion was leaked to Politico. This concerns Roe v. Wade from in 1973 that protects a pregnant woman's liberty to choose to have an abortion without excessive government restriction. Let’s break this down. From the news to the leak to what happens next. It’s going to be another left vs right political battle — and one inside the Supreme Court itself. (27:20) Review: 7 Days. (30:00) The NFL said it could not find anything into the investigation of the Cleveland Browns from Hue Jackson’s allegations. (36:55) NPPOD. (38:30) Let’s talk about steroids. Robinson Cano got DFA’d by the Mets. The team will eat close to $40M because of this decision. Deandre Hopkins of the Arizona Cardinals is suspended 6 games this year for a failed drug test. Hopkins won’t own up to it. Why are we still doing this?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘judgment day’ as in Trevor Bauer has been suspended for two years by Major League Baseball. 234 games. He’s been on Administrative Leave since July 2, 2021. This is the longest ever suspension under MLB’s joint domestic violence policy. How did Rob Manfred get here? What does this mean for Trevor Bauer’s future in MLB. (29:00) Review: Ozark. (35:35) Joel Embiid broke his orbital bone and was concussed in the Sixers close out game against the Raptors. He will not play in Game 1 or 2 against the Miami Heat. Doc Rivers excuse for keeping Embiid in the game… cmon, man! (44:40) NPPOD. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘handshake’ as in Roger Goodell calls your name and you come up to the stage and you shake Roger’s hand or you do a little dance or you hug him - very odd. What did we see in the draft? Everyone loves the Giants and Jets draft! I’ve seen them get an A! Wow! Daniel Jones is not getting his option picked up. Sorry. The New York Giants are drafting well. They have a new front office. Making new decisions. Wide Receiver market has been crazy! What is happening? AJ Brown traded to the Eagles. Six wide receivers drafted in the first round. Hollywood Brown being traded to the Cardinals. Copycat league! But Aaron Rodgers says, hey, don’t worry - we’ll be fine! (15:50) Ronald Acuna is back for the Atlanta Braves. He tore his ACL in July 2021. He was supposed to come back in May, but he’s back a week early. Let’s talk about rehab and the decisions to bring him up. (25:15) Review: White Hot - The Rise and Fall of Abercrombie & Fitch. (30:00) NIL money is out of control. Not that we have ANYTHING against players getting paid. Get your money! But this feels different. A Miami Hurricanes basketball player said if he doesn’t get more NIL money, he’s leaving Miami. The face of NIL funding for Miami is a South Beach billionaire and he is not happy. (35:20) NPPOD. (40:55) Inter Miami has a new stadium deal. People wanted to know my thoughts on it because of the Billy Corben mini-doc. Let me explain where I stand.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘Draft Day’ as in the NFL Draft is here as in the greatest day in sports (or so we’ve heard). Did you do your mock draft? Does your team make all the right picks and your rival make all the wrong ones? Are you already mad at your team for passing on your preferred pick? Let’s talk about what happens today. The rumors and whispers, the slipping down the board, the trades, and all! Carolina Panthers GM spoke about talk to Sam Darnold about potentially taking a QB. Panthers owner David Tepper says he can see the vision! Winning is on the horizon! It’s a five year plan! (13:50) So You Wanna Talk To Samson!? Someone asked me how I would feel if I was Daryl Morey and Doc Rivers said what he said during an interview at practice. Doc was not happy with people saying his teams collapse in the playoffs. (24:30) Review: Nitram. (31:40) The Oakland Athletics team president has lost his mind. What is going on with this team? Let me explain what happened on Twitter. (40:25) NPPOD. (41:35) Olivia Wilde had a wild day. She was reportedly served custody papers on stage at an event. Okay.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘grip’ as in get a grip as in I can’t grip the ball as in Spider Tack as in pitchers are pissed about the new ball. Hitters are frustrated about the new ball. The Mets lead the leagues in HBP with 18 and Pete Alonso has been hit in the head twice. Mets pitcher Chris Bassitt went off last night after the Mets win talking about how bad the ball is and why MLB won’t do anything about it. (11:00) The Yankees Letter was released and it was a whole lot of nothing. Everything we already knew was in there. Nothing new. Every. Team. Cheats! That’s baseball! (21:30) Review: Metal Lords. (26:50) Someone asked me about the Supreme Court case involving a football coach who got in trouble for praying after every game. Why did this go all the way to the Supreme Court? Let me explain! (38:35) NPPOD. (40:55) Jerry West v. HBO is the biggest battle in Hollywood right now. Jerry West is furious about his portrayal in Winning Time. He’s so mad he wants the case to go all the way to the Supreme Court. Hello!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘sweep’ as in get the brooms as in 0 wins as in 4 losses as in the Brooklyn Nets have gotten swept by the Boston Celtics. Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, Steve Nash, no Ben Simmons… see ya! Half season Kyrie Irving. Bad back Ben Simmons. Steve Nash sleep walking on the sidelines. The Boston Celtics were the better TEAM. Complete team. Jayson Tatum was the best player on the floor each night. Ime Udoka coached circles around Steve Nash. Just, wow! (16:10) Elon Musk is buying Twitter for $44B. Forty-four billion dollars. What does the future of Twitter look like? Why would he do this? Why overpay for this? (31:30) Review: Friday. (35:30) Angel Hernandez is bad at his job. He is the worst of the worst of umpires in MLB. Why can’t the league fire him? Every player of past and present would probably want it done. (45:55) Michael Conforto signed on with Scott Boras this offseason. Michael Conforto turned down a qualifying offer from the Mets. No one signed him. Now he’s getting surgery and will miss the season. Horrible. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘10%’ as in a tenth as in 16.2 as in the MLB season is already ten percent through. Remember when everyone though there wouldn’t be baseball this year and here we go. Let’s talk about what we’ve been seeing so far. Injuries. Less runs. Surprises. Disappointments. Poor attendance. Streaming wars. (18:00) Miguel Cabrera is now Mr. 3000. It finally happened on Saturday. Will anyone else join Cabrera soon? Maybe in 10 year? 15 years? Who has the best chance? Machado? Soto? Trout? (28:00) Review: The Batman (31:40) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about the craziness of fans lately. The Timberwolves have now had 3 different people try and protest during a game. The latest one was tackled by security on the court. The Reds made fans take paper bags off their heads. The Yankees fans threw bottles and debris at the Guardians players. What is going on?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘intentional walk’ as in you go to first base as in no chance toilet pants for you to get a hit as in Yankees manager Aaron Boone intentionally walked Miguel Cabrera in the 8th inning with a chance to get 3,000 hits. Was it the right decision or was it a cheap move? (14:15) Charlie Blackmon becomes the first active MLB player to get a sponsorship deal from a gambling company. Uh oh. How does Pete Rose feel about this? Well, Pete obviously said something. (25:30) Review: As They Made Us. (30:35) What’s going on with Disney and Florida? There is a battle between Mickey Mouse and Ron DeSantis. (41:00) NPPOD - The Golden State Warriors are GOOD. (45:10) What is the Yankees Letter? Are we going to finally get the smoking gun against the Yankees? OoOooO! 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘2703’ as in not the amount of cookies I ate yesterday or the percentage of me being baked but as in the announced attendance at the Oakland Athletics home game yesterday. The team lost 1-0 to the Baltimore Orioles. What is going on? 8% capacity in the stadium. A team trying to build a new stadium. A team that’s threatening to move to Las Vegas. Uh oh. (24:20) The US Capitol was evacuated yesterday because of a pregame ceremony at Nationals Park. What happened? Miscommunication between a plane holding US Army Golden Knight paratroopers was flying over Washington DC and the government took it as a probable threat. Oh boy. (37:20) Review: All the Old Knives. (38:40) NPPOD. (42:30) Is a pitch clock coming to MLB? Is this how MLB is going to speed up the game? Is the speed of the game a major issue?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘4/20’ as in Woody Harrelson’s favorite day as in the stoner day as in let’s get lit day as in don’t ya wanna marijuana. Let’s talk about the origin of this day and the future. Could we see marijuana advertisements come to the sports world like we have seen with gambling lately? Is that what the future holds or will teams be scared off forever? (10:00) So You Wanna Talk To Samson!? Someone asked me about payrolls and jersey sponsors. They wanted to know if small market teams could ever become big market teams. The explosion of the jersey sponsors is coming. You just #waittosee. (24:15) Review: Top 5 Weed Movies. (30:00) Let’s talk about public financing. There’s been LOTS of talk about it. Miami, Inter Miami, Buffalo, Baltimore, South Carolina… just to name a few! (45:20) NPPOD.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘Boston marathon’ as in the 126th Boston Marathon took place on Monday and I was there. Let’s talk about my journey. Let’s talk about the run. Let’s talk about everything that I saw in Boston. (26:20) Review: Jimmy Savile. (31:30) An update on Trevor Bauer. Is he going to play baseball again this year? Is he going to be suspended? What is happening? (39:10) NPPOD. (44:30) Let’s talk about the Miami Heat! 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s another Samson Sit-Down. This time legendary broadcaster Bob Costas! He joins David Samson to speak about his career in broadcasting, his most famous calls (Game 6 of Jordan’s shot for the Bulls!), the Olympics, and where his career is today!

We are very sorry about the audio quality on this one! PLEASE don't hold that against us!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘75 years’ as in Good Friday as in Happy Passover as in it’s the 75th anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier in MLB. Let’s talk some about the life of Jackie Robinson, both on and off the field. Today is also the 9th anniversary of the Boston Marathon Bombing. We’re headed to the race on Monday. Let’s discuss that day and every race after. (14:20) What’s the update on Chelsea Football Club’s sale? The Ricketts family has decided to pull its bid. The supporters of Chelsea turned on the Ricketts family quickly. Now three other American consortium’s are left. (18:45) Did you see the person who bought Tom Brady’s “final TD pass” for $518K got his money back? HORSE HOCKEY! Let me explain why. (25:30) Review: Harry Chapin. (31:00) Kyler Murray didn’t get an extension but his coach did. He and Kliff Kingsbury have the same agent. Murray is only entering his 4th year with the team so he still has two years left on his Rookie deal. Why is this situation even happening? It’s ridiculous. (34:35) NPPOD: Shohei Ohtani is in trouble. Can he possibly stay great as a pitcher and hitter? Doesn’t look like it. (43:00) So You Wanna Talk To Samson!? Someone asked me about Marlins Park opening 10 years alter and what I would have done differently on that day. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘perfect’ as in allowing no hits or walks or players on base as in Clayton Kershaw was so close to throwing a perfect game for Los Angeles Dodgers and then POOF! He was yanked from the game after 7 innings and we all want to know why. Dave Roberts said health. People cried about health. HORSE HOCKEY! Kershaw was 80 pitches into this. He wasn’t throwing his arm out. (19:35) So You Wanna Talk To Samson!? Someone asked me about the incident in the Padres vs Giants game. There was a bunt down big that set people off. There was an incident between two coaches about a bad word. The first woman in history coached on the field. A lot went down. (36:45) Review: Billions Season 6. (39:55) NPPOD - What is going on with Shohei Ohtani’s bat? (42:35) What is happening with Tom Brady? A report came out that Tom Brady was going to leave Tampa to be a player/owner for the Miami Dolphins. This whole plan fell apart after the Brian Flores lawsuit was filed. Whoa. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘Tuesday’ as in it’s Wednesday as in just another Tuesday as in Dan Snyder and the Washington Commanders have fallen deeper and deeper in the bad place. What happened now? More misogyny? More workplace harassment? More racist logos? Nope, it’s more financial issues. The US government is now trying to make an example of the Commanders after uncovering what looks like a scheme to hide millions from other teams and the NFL. Woof. (13:45) So You Wanna Talk To Samson!? Someone asked me a question about Phil Castellini and the comments the Reds president made about the fans on a radio show. Not only did Castellini say the fans can kick rocks, he also said if the fans don’t like it the team will leave. Then he doubled down. Then he apologized. Whoops. (30:10) Review: Marry Me. (33:00) Some corrections from past episodes. (36:15) NPPOD. (40:35) A young player for the Philadelphia Phillies said that he effing hated Philly. Alex Bohm got caught on the hot mic. Alec Bohm got booed. Players really need to watch what they say in this hot mic world. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘exploring’ as in Dora the Explorer as in trying to find the lost city of Atlantis as in the Washington Nationals could be for sale. The Lerner family is exploring potential sale of over $2B. Why would this be happening now? Why not say the team is just for sale? And what’s going on with the Denver Broncos? Are the Broncos about to be a Walmart brand? (21:30) LeBron James opened up about the end of the season. The Lakers missed the playoffs and fired its coach. LeBron said it was all good. Sure! (28:10) Review: Severance. (38:30) So You Wanna Talk To Samson!? Someone asked me what I would do if a player took to social media before a game to show displeasure of not being in the starting lineup. (45:30) NPPOD. (48:00) Aaron Judge will not be traded. Stop.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘all rise’ as in stand up as in get on your feet as in the judge has entered the courtroom as in Aaron Judge turned down a massive extension from the New York Yankees. It was about $30M a year. Making Judge one of the highest paid players in the league and would take him through his age 38 season. Seems reasonable. Judge said no. The extension would put him into the Top 15 in terms of contract money/length. Will Judge leave the Yankees for more money? (14:40) Tiger Woods returned to golf at the Masters. He played okay. He made the cut which was the most important thing. Good to see him back. (16:40) Dwayne Haskins was tragically killed this past weekend. It’s a horrible story with a horrible end. NFL Insider Adam Schefter broke the story and his choice of words got him in deep trouble with Twitter. What was Schefter’s plan? Why did he say what he said? Was this just another transaction on the wire for him? And don’t get me started with Gil Brandt. (31:30) I have a story to tell about my weekend. Wear sunscreen. (34:50) Review: Euphoria. (39:35) What’s going on with the Boston Marathon? Why are Russian runners banned from running? What exactly is the point? It’s not like Putin is running. Where do you draw the line? (46:10) NPPOD

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘clash’ as in an argument as in teammates fighting as in Ronald Acuña gave an interview where he said he wouldn’t miss anything about Freddie Freeman being off the Atlanta Braves. It was a little odd to see how this played out. Acuña didn’t like the way Freeman had handled things his rookie year in Atlanta. Freeman didn’t really understand where this was coming from — but we get it. (15:20) We have an update on the Brian Flores lawsuit. Two more African American coaches have joined the suit. Steve Wilks and Ray Horton both spoke openly about the way their interviews and coaching years were handled. Mike Mularkey came out to Horton’s defense and said the Titans told Mike he had the job before anyone else was even interviewed. (30:15) Review: Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Season 4. (32:00) Tiger Woods is back! His first tournament in over a year. He looked hurt when walking the course, but when he stepped up to the tee he was back. The old Tiger. The winner. The competitor. He moves the needle like no one else in sports can. (42:30) NPPOD. (45:45) Ke’Bryan Hayes got the largest contract in Pittsburgh Pirates history. $70M extension. For what? I mean, get paid… but why is he the player that Pirates made history with? Of all the other players in the clubs history. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘Opening Day’ as in it’s finally here as in baseball is back as in the lockout is over as every team is currently tied for first! Let’s break down everything you need to know about what happens today. What are teams doing to get ready? Do you still believe in your team? Do you NOT believe in your team? (12:30) Here’s my top 5 ballpark snacks! Not hot dogs or gourmet meals or monstrosity burgers. SNACKS! (15:20) Is the AL East the most interesting division in MLB history? The Blue Jays are good. The Yankees are good. The Rays are good. The Red Sox are good. The Orioles are… in the division, for sure. (21:20) What’s going on in the NL East? Are the Braves set to repeat? Can Scherzer and deGrom be historic for the Mets? Do the Phillies bat come together? What about the Marlins and Nationals? (28:45) Review: Boiling Point. (30:55) It’s time for awards! We’ll walk through MVP and Cy Young winners! (34:55) Who wins the Wild Card? Any teams you didn’t think I’d like? Who wins the World Series? Repeat Braves? New-look Blue Jays? Big bat Yankees? Big arm Mets? (38:30) My top 5 surprises for MLB this season.

I love you all. Have a great season! - Coca

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘Winning Time’ no, not the series on HBO, no not some champion contender, we mean the 2021-22 Los Angeles Lakers. Why are we talking about them? The Lakers were eliminated from the a spot in the playoffs. They couldn’t even finish in the 10th spot for a chance at the play-in tournament. A LeBron James led team was an absolute disaster. The Russell Westbrook experience was a failure. Anthony Davis missed a majority of the season (again) with injury. What happens now? Will Frank Vogel get another year? (13:10) What’s going on in this division? Is it any good? The Pirates stink, the Reds stink, the Cubs… stink! Will it be a Brewers and Cardinals race alone? (21:40) AL Central time! The Cleveland Guardians are debuting a new name and the stink! The Tigers will overachieve. The White Sox are real contenders. (27:00) SO You Wanna Talk To Samson!? Someone asked me about the new sign-stealing device that will be used in MLB. Interesting. (39:00) Review: The Rental. (44:55) It’s happening! Tiger Woods is back! The Masters is here and Tiger has returned to save golf ratings! (46:40) NPPOD.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘service time’ as in Opening Day is about to be here as in has service time manipulation been deaded by the new CBA? Have you seen some of these new fresh names that have made MLB opening rosters? Let’s talk about some of these young players and why the fantasy is. sometimes better than the reality. (16:20) Let’s start our MLB previews with the NL West. A breakdown of the NL West and how we think this division will finish. It’s going to be the Dodgers vs Padres race! (25:35) What’s the AL West going to look like? Athletics are a disaster. Rangers tried. Angels are the Angels. Is this still the Astros division? Are the Mariners going to get hot? (33:55) Review: The Bubble. (36:35) Dan Snyder is back again. We promise it won’t be an everyday thing. It’s just… he can’t help himself. The owner of the Washington Commanders released a statement about his alleged behavior. (43:10) NPPOD (44:00) Bracket winners announced!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘stolen’ as in Dan Snyder just can’t help himself as in the Washington Commanders reportedly withheld ticket revenue from opponents. How can this possibly be? What happens if this is true? (12:50) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about Carlos Beltran’s comments on YES Network. Beltran spoke about cheating with the Houston Astros and how the team did it because no one asked them to stop. Why is he bringing this up now? (30:00) Review: Red Rocket. (32:30) Jacob deGrom has a stress fracture in his scapula. Jacob deGrom has said he will still opt out. Max Scherzer has a hamstring injury. The Mets paid the price, but will they get a return on the investment? How do teams have deals that fall apart? (40:15) The Oakland Athletics have tore it all down. Traded player after player after player. Why are so many people up in arms again? They weren’t going to win anything this year or next year or the year after. (45:40) NPPOD. Do we ride with UNC or take Kansas?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘drought’ but first let’s start with April Fool’s Day as in the day of pranks as in the day of jokes as in the new world order of disinformation but every day is filled with that so let’s make today Don’t Be A Fools Day! Now back to drought! Yankees face Brian Cashman is mad, angry, upset, yada yada yada! He says “hey, Yankees fans can’t be upset because we should have won the 2017 World Series!”. That was the year of the Houston Astros cheating scandal. Interesting comments coming from a team that themselves got in trouble! (12:00) Dan Snyder is back in hot water again… not surprising. Bad team, bad front office, bad workplace culture, bad ownership group, and now, bad financials! A report came out that during this investigation by Congress it was revealed that Dan Snyder kept TWO DIFFERENT BOOKS on Washington’s financials. Oh boy. (32:30) Review: Casual. (35:30) So You Wanna Talk To Samson!? Someone asked me about the New York Mets and Jacob deGrom. Historic start to 2021, and he got hurt. Mets sign Max Scherzer for a big 1,2 punch - and now deGrom has another shoulder issue before Opening Day. Is the juice worth the squeeze? (44:35) NPPOD. It’s the Final Four! Duke vs North Carolina! Villanova vs Kansas!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘consultant’ as in assistance as in Assistant to the Regional Manager as in Bruce Arians announced last night he would be stepping down as head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to join the front office. Sure. Gotcha. So you’re saying Tom Brady returned to the Buccaneers and was okay with his coach stepping down this late? Or was this planned the whole time? Hmm… (12:25) Today was supposed to be MLB’s Opening Day, until it wasn’t. Why didn’t MLB plan anything big for today to make up for the fact that it’s been delayed a full week? Are we just supposed to pretend it never happened? Or is Home Run Derby X the new big thing? HA. Cmon, man! What is Rob Manfred up to? He needs to rehab his relationship with the players and he’s trying to do that. (23:50) Quick story on the Nationals spring training games. They were shelled by the Cardinals. But this part is important. (28:50) Review: Windfall. (33:55) So You Wanna Talk To Samson!? So Meta (formerly Facebook) is coming after TikTok, hard. They spent BIG money on a conservative lobbying firm to try and hurt TikTok in Washington D.C. (42:10) NPPOD. (44:55) Wait to see: Is Tiger Woods returning to the Masters?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘defamation’ as in Trevor Bauer is back! No, not back pitching, but back in the news. Last night Bauer took to Twitter and said he is suing The Athletic and former employee Molly Knight. Let’s explain what’s going on here. (13:20) Roger Goodell answered some media questions yesterday at the NFL owners meetings. He spoke about a few different topics, but let’s read what he said about Deshaun Watson. (20:20) Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti was at the NFL Owner’s Meetings and spoke about Deshaun Watson and Lamar Jackson. Watson got a fully guaranteed deal from the Cleveland Browns. Now what happens with the Ravens and Lamar Jackson who needs a new deal after this season? Bisciotti is not happy! (28:50) Review: Against The Ice. (33:20) Everyone was mad about the overtime rules in the NFL. Bills vs Chiefs, anyone? So they changed the rules for the postseason. Easy fix. (38:30) Are the Kansas City Chiefs moving to Kansas? Is that possible? What about the Washington Commanders? Are they moving too? Is everyone moving!? (42:30) NPPOD. (44:30) Jim Irsay is the owner of the Indianapolis Colts. He had some things to say about Carson Wentz yesterday that was not good. The Colts traded Wentz away so why did Irsay need to say anything?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘1.4 Billion’ as in $1.4B as in one point four billion dollars as in that’s the cost of the new Buffalo Bills stadium. How does this get done? Are the Bills paying for the whole stadium? Ha. $850M will be coming from tax payers. The Bills will only pay $350M and the NFL will fund $200M. Why is it done like this? Let’s talk about Marlins Park. (21:10) What’s going on with NFL diversity programs in coaching hiring? The NFL is launching a new program where teams are required to hire a minority or a woman for an offensive coaching role. The payments are not from the team, but from an NFL fund. What? (31:35) Review: Pam & Tommy. (37:30) Will Smith apologized for the incident at the Oscars. (40:25) NPPOD. (42:40) So You Wanna Talk To Samson!? Dave Roberts said the Dodgers are going to win the World Series. He said to write it down in Sharpie now. Someone asked me if I like when my manager says this. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘smack’ as in the 2022 Oscars will be remembered for the slap heard round the world. Chris Rock was presenting and made a joke about Jada Pinkett-Smith. Will Smith got up, walked across the stage, and smacked Chris Rock across the face. What a moment. Let’s fire off some takes! What happened during the Oscars? Winners and losers. Jokes and not jokes. Presenters. Hosts. What a night. (31:50) Deshaun Watson and the Cleveland Browns held a press conference on Friday. It was a train wreck. Jimmy and Dee Haslam held their own press conference. Another disaster. (45:40) NPPOD

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Now you can get the #1 show in late night, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, delivered straight to your ears. Keep up with all the whip-smart writing, hilarious monologues, and revealing conversations with celebrity guests, only on The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert. New episodes every weekday wherever you get your podcasts.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘second’ as in not first as in another one as in grand jury number two convened in Texas to decide whether to indict Deshaun Watson. The public did not see this coming, but Watson and the Cleveland Browns knew about this. What did they decide? Not to indict Watson. So what happens now? Watson, head coach Kevin Stefanski, and GM Andrew Berry will speak at 1pm. After that, owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam will hold their own presser. What is going to be said? Is Watson going to answer questions from the media? (9:20) A press conference was held at Citi Field yesterday with Mayor Eric Adams, Randy Levine of the Yankees, and Sandy Alderson of the Mets. Did you hear what he said? Was it the truth? (18:35) Review: Spider-Man: No Way Home. (20:55) It’s time for some Oscar predictions! The Academy Award goes to… (31:35) So You Wanna Talk To Samson!? Someone asked me how sports radio deals work for teams. Why would they ask this? Because the Washington Commanders just dropped a local radio station as it’s official gameday broadcasters. (40:40) It’s time to update some Wait To See topics: Nike has renewed its deal with Kobe Bryant’s estate to continue the production of Kobe sneakers and a new line dedicated to Gigi.; Now lets’s talk about payroll in MLB. Cheap teams. Poor teams. Rich teams. Wealthy teams. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘because Miami’ as in why did that happen? BECAUSE MIAMI! No, not the Miami Heat kerfuffle. No, not Jorge Masvidal getting arrested. We’re walking about the Miami Dolphins trading for Tyreek Hill. So You Wanna Talk To Samson!? Someone asked me if the Dolphins are spending like crazy as a way to distract us from the allegations of tanking against Stephen Ross by Brian Flores. Did they do enough to help Tua or is Tua the problem? (14:55) The Atlanta Falcons traded longtime QB Matt Ryan to the Indianapolis Colts. Falcons GM Terry Fontenot said they did this trade for Matt, not to maximize compensation. WHAT? (24:55) Review: Jackass Forever. (29:35) New York City Mayor Eric Adams is set to announce an update on the vaccine mandate that will allow athletes to play at home unvaccinated. Why now? Does it have anything to do with Steve Cohen? Is Kyrie Irving back? Why is it taking place at Citi Field? (34:30) NPPOD. (35:50) The owners of the Chicago Cubs have their eyes set on Chelsea FC. The going rate looks close to over $4B, which would be the most expensive franchise ever. The campaign against the Ricketts Family by Chelsea fans is big time. Let’s talk about this family.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘ghost runner’ not ghost rider but ghost runner as in MLB’s rule of having a runner on 2nd base to start extra innings. We need a better name for this. NEED IT! Let’s talk about some rule changes between the players and owners. We now have a Shohei Ohtani rule! (13:50) What is arbitration? Which players are getting paid? Who is avoiding hearings? Why do you want to avoid hearings? (30:55) Review: Deep Water. (34:30) So You Wanna Talk To Samson!? Someone asked me about Bernie Sanders campaign against Major League Baseball’s Anti-trust Exemption. (44:20) NPPOD. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘Dear Brian’ as in Dear, Brian Cashman as in Rob Manfred sent the Yankees a letter in 2017 about sign-stealing. What could be in this letter? How much could it hurt the Yankees, MLB, Rob Manfred? Well, we might find out after a court said it will be unsealed. (21:30) The Los Angeles Dodgers could ova been close to breaking the new Steve Cohen Tax line, but they allowed free agent Kenley Jansen to go to Atlanta. Is this what MLBPA was afraid of? That big spenders wouldn’t sign their own if they were close to this threshold? (36:40) Review: Phoenix Rising. (43:20) NPPOD. (44:55) Zion Williamson might not play this season. He’s dealing with injuries, he was out of shape, he was away from the team. What is happening here? He’s played 85 games in 3 years. Not great!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘empathetic’ as in showing an ability to understand and share the feelings of another as in the Cleveland Browns have traded for Deshaun Watson and released a statement that is so ridiculous, we have to talk about it. The Cleveland Browns are giving Watson $230M GUARANTEED! The Cleveland Browns made Watson’s base salary $1M so if he’s suspended he doesn’t lose a big chunk of money. But the Jimmy Haslam and the Cleveland Browns are empathetic towards the TWENTY-TWO women accusing Watson of sexual assault… which was not in their statement. (14:55) So You Wanna Talk To Samson!? Someone asked me about the New York Yankees and what’s going on with Brian Cashman. They asked if the Yankees can win the World Series. The Yankees did not sign Carlos Correa or Trevor Story. So let’s walk through these new contracts that players are signing, and eventually get back to the Yankees. (33:45) Review: F1 Drive to Survive Season 4. We watched the Bahrain Grand Prix live for the first time and it was exciting! (38:10) NPPOD. (41:20) The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are doing something not nice to fans. They are forcing season ticket holders to buy tickets for not just this season, but next season as well. Why? Because this could be Tom Brady’s last season. Wow.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices