Nothing Personal with David Samson

Mailbag time! I’m in London right now having just run the London Marathon. Someone asked me about getting started running a marathon. This is what you do. (12:35) NFL Draft week is here! It all happens on Thursday. What will the Bears do? What will the Commanders do? What will the Patriots do? (21:30) Let’s talk about beat reporters. Who controls them? Do teams do it? (33:45) Boras clients. Bad spring. Better fall? (41:33) Let’s talk about uniforms. It’s Fanatics now. Sweat everywhere. Now late orders to teams. Fun! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nothing Personal Tour hits Pittsburgh! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nothing Personal Tour Live from Nashville! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ’relocated’ as in relocation as in Arizona as in Utah as in Coyotes as in *blank* as in hockey! The team has been sold to Ryan Smith, the owner of the Utah Jazz. But! The Coyotes name and likeness stays in Arizona. Oh? (21:30) NPPOD. Let’s talk about NBA playoff injuries. Jimmy Butler hurt. Zion Williamson hurt. (34:10) Review: Steve Martin Documentary. (38:40) Mets are at the Dodgers tonight. Remember when the Mets were bad? Remember when the Dodgers would go 162-0? (44:20) We have another update on Larry Nassar. Disgrace. Disgusting. Pathetic. (50:50) Let’s talk about Boban and the free chicken shots. Should the NBA have an issue with this? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ’banned’ as in gambling as in NBA as in Jontay Porter as in Adam Silver as in see ya. Jontay Porter, younger brother of Michael Porter Jr, has been banned from the NBA. Betting on games… really? Giving confidential information away? Bad bad bad! (14:40) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me if Robert Kraft would really torpedo Bill Belichick’s chances at a job with the Falcons… whoa. (27:50) Review: Everything Everywhere All at Once. (30:00) What has happened to the Chicago White Sox? They are bad. They have been bad. Will it get any better? (36:45) What has happened to the Colorado Rockies? They are bad. They have been bad. Will it get any better? (40:00) What happened to the Houston Astros? Bad bullpen. Bad pitching. Big money to them. (45:00) NPPOD. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ’the end’ as in it’s the end of the dynasty as we know it as in the Golden State Warriors as in see ya. The Kings beat the Warriors by 24 in the play-in tournament. Klay Thompson missed every shot he took. Steph Curry couldn’t get hot. What happens next? (11:00) The Lakers have advanced to the playoffs. Now they play the Denver Nuggets. LeBron and Anthony Davis vs Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray… again! But a big shoutout to Zion Williamson and his performance last night. (16:30) The WNBA draft was the biggest ever. Blew MLB & NHL out of the water. Caitlin Clark’s impact is real. Can the WNBA capitalize on this? (34:50) Review: Boys State. (39:45) Did you watch the Masters? The final round was down 20%. YIKES! (45:30) NPPOD. (47:50) Jerry Reinsdorf is going to take his teams off NBC and put them on Stadium. Who owns Stadium? Reisndorf! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ’fever’ as in Indiana Fever as in Caitlin Clark as in the WNBA draft as in expansion. Caitlin Clark was the first pick in the WNBA draft. Did you watch? Did you know? What’s next for the league - expansion? growth? TV deal? (9:00) Tyler Glasnow went on a podcast and said some things that many won’t be happy to hear. He talked about throwing hard and getting hurt. The same things we say happens here! (18:25) California politicians are mad at Shohei Ohtani. Why? TAXES! (31:30) Review: Snack Shack. (35:15) The Marlins optioned its best pitcher yesterday. Max Meyer is coming back from Tommy John surgery. Why was this move made? (42:40) NPPOD. (47:10) We have an update on the Rashee Rice incident. Drag racing. Crashing. Leaving the scene. Now being sued. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ’82’ as in the NBA regular season is over, but first we have to talk Boston Marathon! It’s today! (3:13) Alright, it’s time for some NBA talk. Did you know the regular season ended? Here’s what stood out to me! (14:40) How did the weekend go for baseball? Strider Tommy John surgery. Jackson Holliday tough start. More problems with velocity. (32:27) Review: Scoop. (36:45) The Masters! Did you watch? It was all Scottie Scheffler! What about Tiger Woods? Not great! (41:30) NPPOD. (43:00) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about Bad Bunny and his MLB agency. What happened here? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nothing Personal Live Tour in Boston! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nothing Personal Tour continues on from Atlanta! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘affidavit’ as in 37 pages as in Ippei as in Shohei Ohtani as in FBI as in gambling as in $16 million. This Ohtani has exploded. His former translator is accused of stealing $16 million now. WHAT!? (20:30) O.J. Simpson died at the age of 76 from cancer. Let’s talk about his legacy. (34:20) Review: One Love. (39:20) Jordan Montgomery has fired Scott Boras. It happened. (44:10) NPPOD. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘guilty plea’ as in Ippei as in Shohei Ohtani as in theft as in fraud as in Dodgers. What happened? Did Shohei gamble on sports? Did he know anything? The feds are saying no right now. (9:44) Are the Coyotes moving from Arizona to Salt Lake City? Goodbye, Phoenix? No Tempe? No Scottsdale? How would this work? (19:32) I need to update you all on yesterday’s trademark discussion about the Las Vegas Athletics. (27:00) Review: Valley Girl. (31:15) Adam Silver has a lot going on. Playoffs starting. New TV rights deal. WNBA growth. Now he’s got betting problems. Timberwolves problems. (44:00) NPPOD. (45:40) It’s Masters week! Get excited!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘window’ as in wins as in success as in Houston Astros as in Toronto Blue Jays as in the Baltimore Orioles. The Orioles have called up its top prospect Jackson Holliday. The Orioles won 101 games last season. They have a young team filled with young prospects. But why did the Orioles make this move now? (11:20) What an emotional day for the Boston Red Sox. The team honored the 2004 champions. The team honored Tim Wakefield. The team lost to the Orioles. The team lost Trevor Story for the season. (20:32) Julio Urias is done. His career is over. The former Dodgers ace is a free agent and will stay that way. Charged with 5 misdemeanors for domestic violence incident. 2nd time he’s been involved in this in his career. (33:12) Review: Endgame. (37:01) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about John Fisher, the mess, team valuations, trademarks, and more! (47:05) NPPOD. (48:20) It’s time we update on the late spring signings. What happened to Blake Snell? J.D. Martinez? Jordan Montgomery? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘champion’ as in UConn as in back-to-back as in dynasty as in college basketball runs through Connecticut. UConn smoked Purdue in the championship game last night, 75-60. Made it look easy. (9:33) What is the WNBA going to do? Can the TV money come in? Is the Caitlin Clark impact going to reach that league? How can they capitalize right now? (21:20) More pitching problems! More elbow soreness! Framber Valdez hurt! Gerrit Cole speaks out! Justin Verlander speaks out! Shane Bieber speaks out! (37:00) Review: Origin. (44:00) The Miami Marlins quietly declined Skip Schumaker’s deal for 2025. Why? He was just manager of the year! (49:09) Arte Moreno did something hilarious over the weekend. We have to talk about it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘undefeated’ as in perfect season as in South Carolina as in Dawn Staley as in Caitlin Clark. What a tournament it was for the women’s side. Breaking records. Breaking viewership records. What happens next? (12:55) John Calipari is leaving Kentucky! For Arkansas!? (17:05) NPPOD. (20:00) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? What is happening with these pitcher injuries!? Is it the pitch clock? Is it velocity? (33:26) Review: Life & Beth S2. (36:08) Stephen Strasburg has officially retired. He hasn’t pitched since 2022. He hasn’t pitched much since 2019. (42:10) Angels broadcaster Wayne Randazzo went off on MLB during a broadcast. All the issues. All the problems. Woof. (49:20) We’ve got some Scott Boras news. Because Scott Boras needs to stay in the news. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The inaugural Nothing Personal Live Tour has kicked off! First stop was in Philadelphia! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘intimate’ as in closeness as in personal as in the Athletics are moving to Sacramento for an interim period. A 14,000 seat ballpark that hosts a Triple-A team. John Fisher spoke. Vivek Ranadivé spoke. Dave Kaval spoke. Mayors are speaking. (17:25) Let’s try and investigate what happened with Shohei Ohtani’s first home run ball. Did the Dodgers bully a fan? (36:25) Review: The Lionheart. (39:36) Marlins young ace Eury Perez is getting Tommy John. Bad news. Sad news. The Marlins cannot afford to lose anymore pitching. (46:50) NPPOD - Final Four is here! (49:45) We have a little issue in New York City. No not that issue or that issue or that issue. But the NY Marathon problem. Met Transportation Authority tried to squeeze the marathon officials for $750K! What? The Governor said absolutely not! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘super league’ as in college football as in promotion as relegation as in no more conferences. That’s what’s happening now. We have leaders of the new college world trying to do things to fundamentally change college sports. Is a super league even able to happen? Even college basketball is looking for more alternatives. Fox is launching its own NIT alternative. (12:50) Let’s talk about when to hit the panic button in baseball. Steve Cohen spoke with CNBC about the slow start, about spending money. What about the Marlins? (25:00) We still have to talk about LIV and PGA. The drama continues. The merger has yet to happen. And now the players are starting to get upset. (33:30) Review: About Time. (38:10) Let me discuss Larry Lucchino and his life, and legacy. (41:01) NPPOD. (42:40) Another update on the Oakland Athletics. The team reportedly met with Sacramento officials about playing there for the next 3 seasons. Or is Sacramento trying to leverage a moment? (50:20) Let’s end the show with some settlement talk. Pat Fitzgerald filed a huge lawsuit against Northwestern over wrongful termination. Northwestern wanted it to go away… a judge has said not so fast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘cheesesteak’ as in Philly as in live in Philadelphia as in my first live show. What a night. What an experience. (3:30) What a moment for women’s sports! Iowa-LSU shattered records in viewership. Caitlin Clark effect is real! (9:30) Kansas City said NO to the sales tax. Does this mean the Chiefs and Royals are leaving town? (21:10) Ted Leonsis is keeping his teams in D.C. after saying he was going to Virginia. Oh? Why is that? (30:10) Review: To Kill a Tiger. (35:20) Let’s talk about Oakland and the Athletics again. What happened at the BIG meeting? (48:02) NPPOD. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘palindrome’ as in same forwards as backwards as in today’s date as in what are we talking about? Let’s get to women’s college basketball. Caitlin Clark. Angel Reese. Iowa. LSU. What a moment. What a night! But something Angel Reese said postgame was really upsetting. Let’s discuss. (13:00) NPPOD. We’ve got a no-hitter! First of the season! Ronel Blanco of the Astros! (21:35) Tony Clark’s pay was released. He’s made about $4 million last year. Is this important? Should we care? (32:35) Review: Apples Never Falls. (38:00) We have a major vote in Kansas City today. Will the Royals and Chiefs receive funding for stadiums? Vote yes or Vote no! (46:00) We have a shareholder fight at Disney! Get the gloves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘early returns’ as in baseball is back as in weekend baseball is back as in Juan Soto as in Mookie Betts as in the Angels as in the Athletics. What am I even talking about? Yankees swept the Astros in Houston! Mookie Betts is unreal for the Dodgers! The Angels had a team meeting after 2 games! Is that a record? And the Oakland Athletics attendance is no good, very bad — and now Oakland has a new stadium lease offer. (24:20) March Madness! The men’s Final Four is set. NC State is on a Cinderella run! Purdue! Alabama first ever Final Four! And UCONN is looking for back-to-back! (32:10) NPPOD. (37:30) Review: One Day. (39:50) What the heck happened in the Women’s NCAA Tournament game between NC State and Texas? The 3-point line was the wrong length? What? How does this even happen? (48:08) The latest twist in the Timberwolves saga is a mean one! Glen Taylor told Alex Rodriguez and Marc Lore to kick rocks. Alex Rodriguez and Marc Lore are now on a rampage to try and get the Timberwolves from Glen Taylor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘commencer’ as in something French that David said as in Opening Day was here as in what happened in baseball. The Dodgers look great. The Orioles look great. The Diamondbacks look great! Reviews and reviews and reviews! (23:00) What happened with the Timberwolves sale!? It as supposed to be a done deal for Alex Rodriguez and Marc Lore to become majority owners and then yesterday Glen Taylor said, nope! HUH!? (34:22) Review: The Beekeeper. (37:20) NPPOD. (40:08) We finally have an update on Wander Franco. He’s on administrative leave until June 1. He will still be paid. (42:50) Draymond Green was ejected again. Draymond Green apologized again. The Warriors cannot have this happen any longer. (47:30) The crypto man is now in jail. Sam Bankman-Fried was sentenced to 25 years in prison. See ya! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘opening day’ as in baseball is back as in no more offseason as in real games as in home runs as in strikeouts as in World Series. It’s here and it’s beautiful. (9:00) Let’s do some predictions! Win total season people! Do you believe in the Yankees? Can the Diamondbacks replicate their run from last year? How about the Athletics? Another sad season coming for the A’s. (14:45) NPPOD. (17:30) David Rubenstein is now the owner of the Baltimore Orioles. No more Angelos in Baltimore. What is the future of the team? How does this vote go? (24:30) The Dodgers just keep spending! More and more and more money. More and more and more deferrals! Will Smith gets $140 million! (31:08) Review: The King’s Speech. (37:20) The Washington Wizards & Capitals are staying in D.C. Why? Because it always happens this way! (42:22) Caitlin Clark got a monster offer from Ice Cube to play in the Big 3. $5 Million! Will she accept? Probably not. (45:20) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about incentives and if teams would actual sit a player so they wouldn’t collect. Interesting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘limb’ as in out on a limb as in predictions as in 2024 MLB season is here! Let’s start things off with Jordan Montgomery and the Diamondbacks first. Day before the season starts and we have a signing. The Diamondbacks made it to the World Series last season and are all in this season. (6:10) Alright, let’s get to some predictions! What to watch for! Stories to follow! MVP! World Series! We predict it all! (25:20) ESPN is likely to opt-out of its broadcast deal with MLB. Why? Is this a sign things are bad for baseball? (32:35) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about how MLB would handle a suspension for a player with deferred money. (36:50) Review: Miller’s Girl. (39:30) Did you see this story about the Utah women’s basketball team? Subjected to racial threats in Idaho as part of the tournament. What is happening? (44:35) NPPOD. (45:50) We have more updates from the NFL owners meetings. More new rules. More games on weekdays. More kickoff changes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘dishonest’ as in where is the truth as in not a press conference as in Shohei Ohtani as in Ippei as in the Dodgers as in gambling. Why did Ohtani do that? Why would his lawyers and reps and the team have him do that? Press not allowed to ask questions? (15:20) We have another gambling issue. This time in the NBA with Jontay Porter of the Raptors. Prop bet problems. (25:00) We have new rules in the NFL. No more hip-drop tackles. Defense is NOT happy about the change. (35:30) Review: Ricky Stanicky. (38:20) What is going on with Deion Sanders? He said his son and Travis Hunter will pick their NFL teams. Interesting. (45:00) NPPOD. (48:00) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about the Buffalo Bills new stadium and the price of season tickets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘clarity’ as in crystal clear as in details as in maybe the truth as in Shohei Ohtani is expected to meet the media today. He has yet to address the media since the firing of his interpreter in South Korea over the alleged illegal gambling or theft or whatever it is has happened. (16:30) Everyone is excited for Opening Day and it’s all bad news right now. MLBPA fighting. Power struggles. Where’s the baseball? (26:45) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about Jackson Holliday and the Orioles and service time manipulation! (36:55) Review: Quiet on the Set. (42:20) What is going on LSU head coach Kim Mulkey? Going after a Washington Post writer. Let’s discuss the hit piece stopper. (46:38) The NCAA had to pull a ref from the women’s tournament over a conflict of interest! What are we doing!? (50:20) NPPOD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘translate’ as in translator as in Shohei Ohtani as in Ippei Mizuhara as in gambling. What is happening here? Did Ohtani have a gambling problem? Was his money stolen by his interpreter? Is Ohtani going to get suspended? WHAT IS GOING ON!? (20:50) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about why the MLB season started in South Korea with games being played with West Coast teams. (30:35) NPPOD. (32:45) Review: Confessions of a Dangerous Mind. (36:50) Let’s talk about employees stealing from employers. It happened in Jacksonville. It may have happened with Ohtani. And now it’s happened with the Minnesota Timberwolves. (44:00) The NFL rules are changing. Every year it’s something new. Is it for the players? Is it for the fans? (49:25) Yamamoto got shelled in his first start for the Dodgers. Bad start, that’s it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘opening day lite’ as in Dodgers as in Padres as in South Korea. Why is it happening now? Why is next week Opening Day for every other team? Something crazy has happened before the game even started… a bomb threat! (5:15) There is a Game of Thrones happening inside the MLBPA right now like we’ve never seen. Scott Boras. Bruce Meyer. Tony Clark. Howard Marino. Players. Agents. Whoa! (17:00) Jazz Chisholm spoke on The Pivot podcast and called out his former veterans. Why? What was the goal of that? (30:00) Review: Wonka. (32:50) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about Nationals owner Mark Lerner writing a letter to the fans. (41:20) What is going on in the ACC? Another lawsuit! This time it’s Clemson! They’ve joined FSU in trying to get out of the TV deal. (48:50) What is happening with the sale of the Minnesota Timberwolves? Is Alex Rodriguez in trouble? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘definitive loss’ as in Blake Snell as in Scott Boras as in the San Francisco Giants. Why is this a loss for Snell? Is this a loss for Boras? (8:50) We have fighting! The MLBPA is reportedly facing a mutiny. What is happening? Is another lockout coming? (23:15) There are so many injuries. The Houston Astros lost another pitcher. Bryce Harper has a back issue. Byron Buxton has a back injury. (36:15) Review: Ferrari. (41:20) The Bauer Hour is back! Bauer announced he’s going to pitch against the Yankees… as part of a Mexican pro team! (45:00) The Big East is mad. Every school that misses the tournament is mad. More statements. More words. (50:45) NPPOD. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘two sleeps’ as in baseball is back as in the Dodgers as in the Padres as in Seoul as in Opening Day as in the Mets as in the Marlins as in the Cardinals! Ohtani and the Dodgers kicks things off on Wednesday against the Padres. (8:35) Eury Perez is being shutdown. It is bad news for the Marlins. Why did they say it was a blister!? (12:00) What’s going on in Mets land? Steve Cohen met the media to talk Pete Alonso, to talk expectations, to talk farm system. Fun times! (16:20) Why did the Cardinals extend Oli Marmol? What was the point before this season? (25:00) Review: Madame Web. (27:23) Let’s talk football. The Steelers signed Russell Wilson, traded Kenny Pickett, and then traded for Justin Fields. Wow. Why did they trade Pickett? Why did the Bears accept so little? (35:00) March Madness is here! Go Yale! Go Wisconsin! But what about all these teams saying no to the NIT? Ridiculous! (42:30) NPPOD. What happened to scoring in NBA games? (47:40) A chocolate scheme in Maryland is crazy. The PTSA treasurer used $29,000 of chocolate sales on himself and gambling! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘breakout’ as in Spring Training and Spring Breakouts as in the inaugural MLB showcase. Did you watch the games? Did you see the top prospects? (9:10) Who is the Yankees Opening Day starter? Not Gerrit Cole. Not Carlos Rodon. Not Marcus Stroman. (13:10) What is going on with the Kansas City Chiefs? Are the moving? Are they threatening to move? (26:30) Review: Agrylle. (29:12) Penguins heist. No not stolen Penguins! Stole Jaromir Jags bobbleheads! (32:40) Aaron Rodgers was forced to release a statement. Politics! (34:40) NPPOD. (36:35) Nick Saban can’t stop talking. Retired and now he hates college football. NIL is out of control, but is he the right person to tell us? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘PSA’ as in Preller Strikes Again as in the San Diego Padres have traded for Dylan Cease from the Chicago White Sox. Grade the trade! You get an A! You get a B! Wait, but you get an A! Let’s talk about why each team made these trades. Why did the Padres make this trade? What is the White Sox plan? (13:45) Gerrit Cole really is injured. The Yankees do wha the Yankees do. Still haven’t given a definitive timeline. But he’ll be out. Bad news. (21:08) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about team doctors. Dr. Neal ElAttrache is the Dodgers team doctor, but he’s also the No. 1 doctor that other players see. (31:47) Review: Gladiator. (36:00) Aaron Rodgers. Welcome to politics. (47:10) NPPOD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘dummy call’ as in a fake audible as in a fugazi as in Aaron Rodgers as Vice President… what!? Yup, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has Rodgers as a potential candidate. Is this real life? (11:06) Another day, another Yankees injury. Aaron Judge this time with an MRI on his abs. Gerrit Cole MRI results still aren’t out. All is well with the Yankees. (24:50) Review: The ABCs of Book Banning. (30:25) The State of the State of Florida. What’s happening there? Why it’s important. (33:50) NPPOD. (38:12) Let’s talk cap space! Patrick Mahomes restructures his deal for Chiefs cap space. Fun! (45:00) We finally have the result of the Jaguars employee who stole milllllions from the team. He got 6 1/2 years! Woof. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘elbow discomfort’ as in fatigue as in MRI as in Gerrit Cole as in the Yankees. UH OH! Bad news bears once again for Boone and Cashman. Let’s talk about the MRI process. The news process. And what all this could mean. (14:50) Saquon Barkley left the Giants for rival Eagles. Big no no to some. Tiki Barber took exception to this and called out Barkley. Barkley then responded. Let’s discuss the RB market and should there be loyalty. (22:22) Kirk Cousins makes money. That’s it. Just good enough. Smart enough. Lucky enough. (30:16) Review: The Teachers’ Lounge. (33:36) What happened with J.D. Davis and the San Francisco Giants. He won his arbitration hearing, but now find himself out of a job. HUH? (45:45) NPPOD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘stained carpet’ as in the Oscars as in the Academy Awards as in watch party as in Oppenheimer as in Jimmy Kimmel as in John Cena as in Emma Stone as in Barbie as in movies! Let’s do a little recap of the night and what happened. (13:20) Did you see Trevor Bauer pitch? Did ya? He pitched for the Asian Breeze against a bunch of minor leaguers and no one watched. No scouts there. Is it over? (22:20) Mookie Betts is now the shortstop for the Dodgers. No longer 2nd baseman. What happened? What goes into a move like this and why so close to start of season? (34:25) Rudy Gobert has been fined $100K by the NBA. He did a money gesture to the refs. And then doubled down after the game. Woof. (40:00) NPPOD. (42:30) What are the Bears doing? No more Arlington Heights? Back to the city? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘jab’ as in punch as in uppercut as in hook as in Jake Paul as in Mike Tyson as in Netflix. What is happening? What is Netflix doing? (13:35) Is Ben Simmons’ career over? The millions and millions and millions of dollars he’s been paid to not play. Often hurt Simmons is out for the year again. Woof. (29:00) Review: Perfect Days. (34:55) Trevor Bauer is back in baseball. On a foreign travel team that you have to pay to play for. Huh….. (39:36) NPPOD. (41:33) Is the Wizards/Capitals move to Virginia dead? It sure looks like it despite what Ted Leonsis and the Virginia governor are saying. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘overreaction’ as in this players stinks as in he’ll never be good again as in he’s the best player we’ve ever seen! What are we talking about? MLB Spring Training! Yoshinobu Yamamoto had a bad start… STINKS! Carlos Rodon still can’t find his fastball… this actually might not be an overreaction! Juan Soto is scorching! (11:00) Nick Saban had enough. That’s why he left coaching. He sounded off to ESPN on his decision. (24:45) Review: Sound of Metal. (30:50) NPPOD. (32:50) What is happening in Chicago with stadiums? Bears want a stadium. White Sox want a stadium. (41:10) The same thing is happening in Kansas City. Stadiums! Stadiums! Stadiums! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘injuries, injuries, injuries!’ as in Lucas Giolito as in Sonny Gray as in Justin Verlander as in Kyle Bradish as in Kodai Senga. It’s all about spring training injuries and teams trying to avoid this. Giolito signs a big deal for the Red Sox and now he’s done. Sonny Gray will likely miss Opening Day with a hamstring. Justin Verlander will start on the IL. (15:45) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about the Athletics new renderings… hahahaha. (29:45) Review: All of Us Strangers. (34:00) Let’s talk about the Dartmouth basketball union vote. What happened? What happens next? (43:10) NPPOD. (44:05) Arch Manning has opted out of EA Sports 2025 college football game. Why? To focus on playing field… huh? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘dead cap’ as in ghost money as in Russell Wilson as in Denver Broncos as in $85 million. That’s it for Russ. 2 seasons and Sean Payton had enough. The fighting at the end of the season about the contract was always going to end this way. (17:45) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about the Chicago Bears and the decision to be made about Caleb Williams or Justin Fields. Who makes this decision? (30:00) Review: Zone of Interest. (34:12) We have an Acuńan update. He is expected to be ready for Opening Day. Phew. (36:20) Scott Boras is back. It’s been a spring training tour with him. Always with the quotes. Never ends. (41:40) The Zach Wheeler deal was a big one. Huge money. But another Boras guy had something to say. (43:30) NPPOD. Let’s talk about Bronny and LeBron James.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘optimistic’ as in being encouraged as in things will go right as in this is our year as in Ronald Acuna has a knee issue and the Braves are trying to remain calm. Reigning NL MVP. He was scratched from a game on Friday and received an MRI and now he’s in Los Angeles to meet with his surgeon. Uh oh. (9:30) Another short term deal for a Scott Boras client. This time it’s Matt Chapman to the San Francisco Giants. (22:02) Review: Poor Things. (28:30) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about the Big Ten and the SEC wanting to get automatic byes in the playoffs. Will it happen? (39:10) Caitlin Clark broke another record. All-time scorer in Division 1 for Men’s or Women’s basketball. (42:05) NPPOD.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘fever’ as in the Indiana Fever as in the Iowa Hawkeyes as in Caitlin Clark as in the WNBA. Clark announced she is going to the WNBA draft. She will forgo her final year of eligibility. Is this a smart business move? Could she make more in NIL and sponsor deals? (12:50) It’s time to talk Wendy’s again! Looks like the company is backtracking its dynamic pricing. Why? (19:15) F1 scandal has hit the circuit before the season starts. Principal of Red Bull Racing Christian Horner was under investigation for some nefarious activity. He was let off the hook, but a leak! (32:03) Review: The Leftovers. (37:30) NFL is not going to ban the “tush push”. Are you okay with that? What other rules or technology is the NFL working on? (44:00) NPPOD. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘leap year’ as in today as in February 29 as in every four years as in class is in session. The NFLPA released a player survey where they graded every team in the league. In all categories from training to facilities to owners to food to family care. The Chiefs win Super Bowls but it appears players do not like the team! The Commanders ranked last again… duh. (21:00) What is the latest with the Commanders outside of the survey? FedEx backed out of the stadium naming rights. A bill just passed in DC for RFK Stadium. Is the team moving? (29:20) Review: Thelma & Louise. (34:00) Scott Boras of course showed up to the Cody Bellinger press conference with the Cubs. What did he have to say? (43:45) NPPOD. (46:06) Wendy’s is going to start dynamic pricing. How does that make you feel? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘1000’ as in the 1000th episode of Nothing Personal! And it's with Coca! That's me, I'm Coca! I write these things everyday! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘debut’ as in Shohei Ohtani as in Los Angeles Dodgers as in Spring Training as in gameplays. Ohtani is set to make his debut in Spring Training today. Dave Roberts spoke about the plan to get Ohtani some at-bats. MLB Network will air the game. Biggest free agent signing of all-time! (11:35) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about Spring Training: what should fans look for? What do front offices look for? (25:20) Review: Anyone But You. (28:10) NFL Combine is here. Top prospects are starting to opt-out way more than usual. New trend? Just this year? Is the NFL happy about it? (35:30) The running back market has crashed. Players aren’t getting top dollar. Teams are passing on franchise tagging running backs. Will it ever bounce back? (41:30) NPPOD. (44:00) Pistons lost to the Knicks. Monty Williams lost it on the refs in the postgame presser. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's David's birthday! Everyone go wish him a happy birthday! And celebrate with a piece of cake for yourself! (calories don't count for birthday cake!) Today’s word of the day is ‘blinked’ as in Scott Boras as in the Chicago Cubs as in Cody Bellinger. It finally happened. Cody Bellinger has signed a deal. It’s not the longterm deal most people thought he’d get. Who won this standoff? What’s next for the Boras Boys? (11:20) Let me talk about my weekend and the Challenged Athletes Foundation. (19:05) It’s time for an A’s update! (30:30) Review: American Fiction. (34:00) We need to put an end to court-storming. Enough is enough. (40:00) NPPOD. Miami Heat and New Orleans Pelicans suspensions for a fight! The drama! (43:45) Steve Kerr got an extension. Big money. Matches up the years with Curry. End of an era? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘opportunistic’ as Spring Training as in baseball is back as in injuries as in the Mets got bad news about Kodai Senga. Wonderful. Shoulder injury and he’s shut down. This is a team’s worst nightmare. (18:30) The White Sox want a new stadium. The White Sox want public money. Owner Jerry Reinsdorf spoke with the media… why? (29:28) Review: Bitconned. (37:20) The Pittsburgh Pirates announced a deal with Mitch Keller yesterday. Wonder why they did that! (40:20) NPPOD. (42:30) The Marlins signed someone! It was Tim Anderson. Woohoo! (44:40) It’s time to talk uniforms again! See-through pants!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘Mahomes Rules’ as Antonio Pierce as in Maxx Crosby as in the Las Vegas Raiders. New head coach Antonio Pierce says he wants the Raiders to get to Patrick Mahomes like the Detroit Pistons did to Michael Jordan. Why are coaches saying these things in public!? (13:45) This new world we live in is crazy. Justin Fields unfollows the Bears and the world knows in seconds. Huge story! Why? (30:35) Review: Shawshank Redemption. (36:00) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about The Athletic’s latest piece on Bob Nutting and the Pittsburgh Pirates. (45:45) NPPOD.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘playbook’ as in the owner’s playbook as in the plan as in stadiums as in public money as in the Arizona Diamondbacks are next on the list. Owner Ken Kendrick spoke about needing money for the stadium. Will they leave Phoenix? Is this a threat? Is it not a threat? (13:02) Are the Washington Nationals no longer for sale? What the heck? Let’s explain this horse hockey! (21:10) Tony Clark met the media and spoke out about the deferred comp, the uniforms, and more! (32:12) Review: Hell Camp - Teen Nightmare. (36:40) What is going on with the Red Sox? Rafael Devers is speaking out about the roster. Does Alex Cora have a future with the team? (45:30) Let’s talk about some Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘easy way out’ as in Rocky 4 as in Mike Trout as in the Angels as in Ohtani as in Arte Moreno as in the other LA team. What did Trout say about his future? Does he want a trade? Will he finish his career in LA? (10:00) If Trout just turns to his left he’ll see Anthony Rendon talking about how much he hates baseball. Yes, that one. Said baseball is just a job. Nice! (19:00) What are the Cubs up to? Owner Tom Ricketts called out Scott Boras. Is the team signing Cody Bellinger? (32:00) Review: Flamin’ Hot. (39:05) Another Boras client speaks! It’s Juan Soto time. The new Yankee!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘168’ as in the NBA All Star Game as in 211 points as in 186 points as in the East beat the West in a game that saw 168 three-pointers attempted. Did you watch? Did you enjoy it? Is the game broken? Will players care again? It’s the whole weekend! The dunk contest is still broken too! (12:50) Let’s talk about the White Sox. Another stadium needed. Another attempt to get public financing. Chicago, baby! (27:46) Review: The Iron Claw. (32:35) Let’s talk about leadership in the clubhouse. Nolan Arenado spoke about the problems the Cardinals faced last year. (41:25) Let’s talk about Rob Manfred again.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘lifetime’ as in Rob Manfred as in MLB as in commissioner as in Rob Manfred announced he’s stepping down in 2029. He also spoke of myriad of things: retirement, free agency, jerseys, Athletics, Diamond Sports Group. Let’s go through his comments. (17:35) The Athletics met with Oakland officials yesterday. What was said? Any progress? (28:00) Review: Suncoast. (34:00) The 49ers fired DC Steve Wilks after the Super Bowl loss to the Chiefs. Was he Kyle Shanahan’s scapegoat or was there something more? (40:20) NPPOD - the Milwaukee Bucks have been so bad since Doc Rivers took over. WOOF! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘infuriating’ as in here we go again as in gun violence as in the Chiefs Super Bowl parade turned into mayhem when a shooting broke out. 1 dead. At least 21 other shot. Children shot. What the ****! (22:32) Justin Verlander had a setback. The Astros aren’t happy. The Mets kind of are. (27:40) The drama of the Nationals and Stephen Strasburg has reached a new level we may have never seen before. Nationals owe Strasburg big money, but he’ll never pitch again. The team knows it. He knows it. But they want him at Spring Training…. Why? (38:21) Review: Arthur. (41:24) Pistons’ Isaiah Stewart was arrested for punching Suns’ Drew Eubanks before the game yesterday. What? (47:50) NPPOD. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘pfp’ as in pitchers fielding practice as in spring training as in baseball is slowly coming back as in free agents. What do I mean? Why hasn’t last year’s Cy Young Award winner been signed? How about the best bat on the Cubs? How about a World Series winning pitcher? How about a Gold Glove third baseman? (15:35) The Athletics are meeting with Oakland for a lease extension. Is this step 1 of a new deal? Is this step 1 of the Athletics coming back to Oakland? (27:50) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me a question about Jen Pawol getting to umpire Spring Training games. Is the gender barrier breaking in baseball? (34:35) Review: Lost. (40:10) NPPOD. The Warriors tried to trade for LeBron James! What? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘happens to be represented by Boras’ as in you’ve watched this show long enough to know as in David Stearns as in Pete Alonso as in Scott Boras as in baseball is a day away from being all the way back! Mets new president David Stearns spoke about Pete Alonso and him unlikely to get a new deal this season. (15:05) Jorge Soler signed a new deal with the Giants. 3 years, $42 million! Sorry Marlins. (16:12) What is the latest going on with MLB TV Deals? The Twins and Rangers now have one-year deals with Ballys. Hmm. (29:00) Review: The Eternal Memory. (34:00) What’s happening with the Wizards, Capitals stadium deal in Virginia? It appears to be dead. But is it really? Ted Leonsis said it was a done deal during a presser with the governor! (40:12) NPPOD. (40:28) More and more and more and more and more stadium deals and proposals continue to pop up. Please listen to us! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘repeat’ as in back-to-back as in the Kansas City Chiefs have done it again. Patrick Mahomes is magic. Travis Kelce finished strong. Andy Reid made the right decisions. The defense stepped up. It was all inevitable. What stood out? Did you like the new overtime rules? What was Shanahan thinking taking the ball first? (31:15) What were your favorite commercials from the Super Bowl? This is why most people tune in! (35:20) NPPOD. (41:08) Former Mets GM Billy Eppler got a season-long ban! What? For allegedly fabricating injuries to mess with rosters. And he was the only one blamed! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘58.5 hours’ as in Super Bowl weekend as in Super Bowl as in Brock Purdy as in Patrick Mahomes as in the 49ers as in the Chiefs! What are my top 5 storylines for the big game? Why isn’t anyone talking about Brock Purdy? His story is amazing! (12:20) Rob Manfred has spoken. He has risen from the hotels in Orlando and what did he have to say? Did he see his shadow? Athletics! DTC! More Athletics! More Vegas! (28:00) Review: Griselda. (31:20) Adolis Garcia signed a new deal with the Texas Rangers to avoid arbitration. Let’s take a look at the details and why he did it. And let’s take a look at some Josh Hader comments. (40:10) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about the Michigan court case about guns, culpability, and the “Michigan Mom” ruling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘anti-hero’ as in Taylor Swift as in Travis Kelce as in Patrick Mahomes as in the Chiefs. When did they become the bad guys? How did this happen? Patrick Mahomes was asked about being a villain, but is he really a villain for winning? (11:30) The NFL minority hiring incentive program is causing quite a stir. Teams are getting draft picks for getting coaches and executives hired away. The 49ers are at the top of that list and owners aren’t happy. (25:40) Review: Silence of the Lambs. (30:03) Netflix announced that a new documentary series will be shot this year Hard Knocks style on the 2024 Boston Red Sox. I have some thoughts because the Marlins did this! (35:50) NPPOD. (37:00) Let’s discuss some things about the MLB owners meetings taking place. What will they talk about? The olympics? Why have the World Baseball Classic AND the Olympics for baseball? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘bundle’ as in streaming as in cable as in ESPN as in Fox as in TNT as in ABC as in FS1 as in sports. Here we go again. We’re back to the TV bundle. These companies announced yesterday that a new streaming service is coming this fall. (13:30) We have another update on yesterday’s exciting Las Vegas mayor statements. Carolyn Goodman walked back her statement on the Athletics. Wonder why! (25:04) Review: Reacher. (28:20) Jose Altuve is a Houston Astro for life. He signed a 5-year extension through his age-39 season. And Clayton Kershaw is back with the Dodgers. He won’t pitch most of the season though. (39:00) NPPOD. (43:00) Let’s talk about the circus…. I mean Super Bowl Week from Las Vegas. Gambling. Radio Row. Drinking. Partying. IT’S A LOT! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘manipulative presser’ as in Super Bowl week as in invite-only as in Roger Goodell met the media and he had some interesting things to say. Taylor Swift, check. Streaming, check. NFL Brazil, check. Grass fields, check! (17:00) Josh Harris held an introductory press conference for Dan Quinn yesterday. What an odd search it was. No Ben Johnson. No Eric Bienemy. Kliff Kingsbury snubs Raiders. (31:00) Review: Bookie. (33:40) We have another update on the A’s to Vegas! A teacher union is suing the state. And now the mayor of Las Vegas is coming out against the team moving to the city! What!? (42:33) NPPOD - Super Bowl props! (46:05) Bobby Witt signed a huge deal with the Royals. The details are something, for sure! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘29’ as in 30 MLB teams as in 29 other teams as in the Los Angels Dodgers as in Shohei Ohtani as in Mookie Betts as in Freddie Freeman as in Gavin Lux. The Dodgers are ready to be villains. They don’t care if you’re upset with them for spending a BILLION. (16:15) Theo Epstein is back in baseball on the ownership side. We told you it would happen. He’s now a minority owner of the Red Sox and part of Fenway Sports Group. (27:50) Review: Slow Horses. (32:30) The Jacksonville Jaguars are out $22 million because of a former employee. He spent about $20 million of it gambling! And now the Jaguars want that money back from Fanduel. Good luck! (43:10) The Hong Kong Messi Mess. That’s what happened with Inter Miami. Disaster! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thank you to everyone who voted! We won Best Baseball and Best Sports Business podcast! LET’S GO! Today’s word of the day is ‘fly’ as in birds as in Baltimore as in Orioles as in David Rubenstein as in Camden Yards as in Corbin Burnes. The Milwaukee Brewers traded Burnes to the Orioles yesterday. The return was interesting. The Orioles are primed for a run. The Brewers are primed for a serious rebuild. And because Burnes is a Boras guy, let’s talk about James Paxton. (19:50) Dan Quinn is headed to Washington. The Commanders brought the DC from the Cowboys. It’s Josh Harris first hire. Was it the right hire? (28:15) Review: Priscilla. (30:55) It has been a bad week for the 76ers and Joel Embiid. First the debacle in Denver. Then he missed another game. Then he played and left and played and got hurt. And now he’s hurt hurt. And the 76ers were fined. (36:30) Alabama’s former baseball coach was given a 15-year show-cause penalty for his involvement in a betting scandal. What happened? It’s a doozy! (42:52) NPPOD. (45:20) It’s the Steroid Games. Huh? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘collective goal’ as in the Baltimore Orioles as in David Rubenstein as in a new ownership group as in the World Series. Yesterday it was believed that the Angelos family would hold on to control of the team until the passing of Peter Angelos. Well, it looks like Rubenstein will takeover immediately. (13:30) The Dallas Cowboys are going all-in! Can you believe it? Does that mean Bill Belichick is coming? More players? Better players? (19:40) We have an update on the Jackie Robinson statue. Still looking for who did it. (24:35) Review: Slumdog Millionaire. (29:30) We have another update on the PGA Tour. They got their money. But not from the Saudi’s. What does it mean for the members? (37:20) NPPOD. (41:30) Lewis Hamilton is leaving Mercedes and headed to Ferrari. This is Ronaldo to Barcelona. Messi to Real Madrid! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘hunt for orange October’ as in Tom Clancy as in the Baltimore Orioles as in the Angelos family as in selling time! The Baltimore Orioles will reportedly be sold for $1.725B for David Rubenstein. What does this mean for the team? What does the transaction look like? What are the details? (13:20) Ben Johnson is choosing to stay in Detroit. He reportedly told the two remaining teams (Commanders, Seahawks) he’s out on head coaching to be the OC with the Lions. Why? (27:36) Review: Bobi Wine - The People’s President. (31:45) We have another update on the NHL players and the sexual assault in Canada. It turns out the reports of the players was true and they had to turn themselves in. The Calgary Flames released a statement about their statement on Dillon Dube and his mental health. (35:45) NPPOD. (36:20) It’s time for an update! Just yesterday we talked about Embiid and the 65-game limit. And later that day it became news! (39:40) Roger Goodell had to be deposed in court. Why? What did he say?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘tweak’ as in tweaked an ankle as in tweaked a knee as in tweaking some rules. What am I talking about? Joel Embiid is playing like an MVP. THE MVP. But he tweaked a knee and because of that he may not be eligible to win a postseason award. Why? Because of the new 65-game limit. Nikola Jokic is the favorite. Luka Doncic is having a great season too. (12:10) NPPOD. (13:33) Kadarius Toney went off on the Chiefs. Andy Reid responded. It could end in a mess. (26:00) Review: The Greatest Night of Pop. (31:15) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about Ken Rosenthal’s article on the Athletics and Las Vegas. (41:40) Jackie Robinson statue was stolen from a park in Kansas. Why?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s word of the day is ‘lake Vegas bound’ as in the Super Bowl as in Las Vegas as in the Kansas City Chiefs as in the San Francisco 49ers. Why Lake Vegas bound? Because that’s where the teams will be staying. The Detroit Lions were aggressive all season. But was Dan Campbell too aggressive when it mattered? (9:00) The Chiefs are back in the Super Bowl. The Ravens were so close but the Chiefs made winning plays. (19:13) NPPOD. (20:10) Adam Silver is being extended as commissioner of the NBA through 2030. He has some big items he needs for basketball: TV deals, CBAs, expansion! (29:15) Review: 20 Days in Mauripol. (33:35) What is happening with Vince McMahon? Is this the WWE storyline he can’t survive? This lawsuit is scary. (44:00) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about the Detroit Tigers signing Colt Keith to a longterm deal without him having played a game yet. Why? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast! Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us now: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘championship weekend’ as in NFC as in AFC as in football as in the NFL as in Patrick Mahomes as in the Chiefs as in Lamar Jackson as in the Ravens as in Jared Goff as in the Lions as in Brock Purdy as in the Niners. (17:00) NPPOD. (20:25) Raheem Morris got the Falcons job. He’s back. Was the interim in 2020. That means Bill Belichick is out. Where will Bill go? The Panthers hired Dave Canales. Not Bill Belichick. David Tepper gave another coach a 6-year deal! (31:30) Review: Self Reliance. (34:50) We have another fun Athletics update. John Fisher spoke in Vegas… and it was a disaster. (43:20) Patriots WR Kayshon Boutte has found himself in some gambling heat. He bet on himself at LSU… literally. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast! Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us now: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘football personified’ as go football as in Jim Harbaugh as in Michigan as in Los Angeles as in the NCAA as in the NFL. Jim Harbaugh is back in the NFL as the head coach of the Chargers. No more NCAA scandals. He leaves to join Justin Herbert in LA. (12:00) The Milwaukee Bucks felt they had a sickness so they hired Doc Rivers. He’s back. From ESPN to Milwaukee. Giannis and Dame did it. But will it result in a ring? (28:20) Review: Love Actually. (35:30) A scandal has rocked Hockey Canada for years now and it’s now gotten worse. The NHL is involved. Canadian government is involved. And it’s all bad. Where is the commissioner? Oh, he’s releasing statements about Utah! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast! Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us now: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘Cooperstown’ as in the Baseball Hall of Fame as in Adrian Beltre as in Joe Mauer as in Todd Helton as in not Billy Wagner or Gary Sheffield. A little surprising to see Helton and not Wagner, but there’s always next year! Except for Sheffield. (11:33) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me why the Milwaukee Bucks fired Adrian Griffin. Woof. And for Doc Rivers!? (21:33) NPPOD. (26:15) Review: Oscar Noms. (31:35) What is going on with the refs? We had the NBA come out and say there were 10 incorrect calls in the final 2 minutes of the Hornets-Timberwolves game! 10! (38:00) Todd Bowles met the media and spoke about the Buccaneers loss to the Lions. Why didn’t they call a timeout? (43:46) So the Miami Heat have finally traded Kyle Lowry for Damian Lillard! Just kidding! They got Terry Rozier from the Hornets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast! Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us now: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘announcement’ as in Baseball Hall of Fame as in Oscars as in today is a big day. Who is getting into the Hall? Adrian Beltre? Joe Mauer? Billy Wagner? Alex Rodriguez? Gary Sheffield? (20:50) Anthony Rendon hates baseball. He has to. He came out and said seasons should be shortened. Of all players to say that… him!? (30:30) Review: The Boys in the Boat (34:11) Raw is Netflix! Netflix is in the live sports world now and it’s a partnership with the WWE. Whoa! (41:40) Are you for or against court storming? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast! Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us now: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘wide right’ as in the Buffalo Bills as in history as in field goals as in losses as in the Bills did it again. Tyler Bass meet Scott Norwood. But, the Chiefs are back in the AFC Championship. 6th straight season. Patrick Mahomes is inevitable. (3:35) Deebo Samuel got hurt. Draftkings issued a refund. FanDuel did not. Hmm. (11:45) Eagles have fired the defensive coordinator Sean Desai after just one season. Matt Patricia is also on the way out. Change is coming. (16:05) Let’s talk more football. Lamar Jackson balled out. Dan Campbell and the kneecap biters did it again. (27:00) Review: Fargo. (30:48) What happened with Sports Illustrated? (38:20) NPPOD. (39:40) We have an update on the Boston Red Sox. Friday it was Craig Breslow. And now we have Sam Kennedy speaking. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast! Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us now: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘eligibility’ as in transferring as in college athletics as in football as in what is going on!? 9th year players? 7th year players? What happened to 4 years? We’ve got the DOJ involved now. We have conferences fighting with teams. And of course, NIL. (15:30) NPPOD - it’s NFL playoff football! Get excited! (27:12) Review: Boy Swallows Universe. (30:02) Red Sox fans are very mad at the team right now. What is Boston doing? (38:36) Are the White Sox staying in Chicago? Is the flirting done with Nashville? (43:35) Are the Astros going to sign Josh Hader? He wants more money than Edwin Diaz! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast! Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us now: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘layers’ as in a cake as chocolate as in vanilla as in sponge as in fondant as in sprinkles as in Jerry Jones as in Mike McCarthy. The Cowboys are bringing back McCarthy for year 5. Sorry, despondent fans. (10:30) Nick Sirianni is meeting with Jeff Lurie with a plan. What plan? The same plan Doug Pederson had when he got fired? (18:23) Is Amazon here to save Diamond? What does that even mean? Can it happen? Is this the future? (32:30) Review: Tootsie. (37:10) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about the sudden death of a Warriors assistant coach and why the team canceled the game. (44:10) NPPOD. (45:00) What are the Clippers plans for the future? New stadium. All-Star Game. Kawhi longterm. What about James Harden? Or Westbrook? Or Paul George? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast! Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us now: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘due process’ as in court as in lawsuit as in James Dolan as in the Knicks as in the Rangers as in Madison Square Garden. What happened now? A lawsuit was filed against Dolan for alleged sexual assault. Also named in the suit is disgraced Harvey Weinstein. Adam Silver said he’s only aware of the article, not the story. (14:30) What’s happening with Jim Irsay? A report has come out that he overdosed in December. Could he be forced to sell? (17:00) What is going on with the Athletics relocation? Any word? Any whispers? Any rumors? (29:00) Review: You Are What You Eat. (35:30) The St. Louis Cardinals are getting ready for the end of regional sports networks. What do they have plans for? What could the collapse mean for competition? (43:00) NPPOD. (43:50) We have another story about Saudi Arabia and sports washing. What happened now? Just your ole intimidation, harm, and corruption. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast! Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us now: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘trilogy’ as in number 3 as in the NFL playoffs as in the Buffalo Bills as in the Kansas City Chiefs as in Josh Allen as in Patrick Mahomes. We did it, folks. Chiefs at Bills. It’ll be the third time we see it in the past 4 seasons. (9:48) The Eagles collapsed. It happened. From 10-1 to 1-6 and out in the first round. Woof. Could Sirianni be out? Bill Belichick is making the rounds! (18:20) Did you see the Cowboys-Packers ratings? 40 million viewers! Every league, every show, every network wants what the NFL has. (21:45) What is happening with the NFL and ESPN? (30:48) Review: Top 5 takeaways from the Emmys. (37:30) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about MLB’s international signing period, how it works, and why teams do it. (42:55) NPPOD. (43:30) Caleb Williams has declared for the NFL draft. Who saw that coming? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast! Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us now: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘floored’ as in Jerry Jones as in the Dallas Cowboys as in the Green Bay Packers as in Mike McCarthy as in playoffs, baby! The Cowboys got smoked, bbq’d, and run out of Jerry World. Is Mike McCarthy done? How about you Packers fans? Are you in love with Love yet? (13:10) Did you watch the Browns-Texans in the Watson-less Bowl? CJ Stroud lit up the Browns. Joe Flacco threw pick sixes like they were beads at Mardi Gras. And Deshaun Watson wasn’t playing. (15:34) The Miami Dolphins still cannot win games in the cold. The Kansas City Chiefs looked like the Chiefs again. And Taylor Swift went home happy! (21:20) No knee caps are safe around Dan Campbell, but he can coach! The Lions won a playoff game! Goff wins, Stafford loses! (23:20) The Buffalo Bills game got postponed because of snow. How do these decisions get made? (32:40) Review: American Symphony. (35:35) The Chicago Bulls held a Ring of Honor ceremony during a game and the fans viciously booed the picture of Jerry Krause. Why? What were they thinking? (46:00) NPPOD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast! Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us now: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘responsibility’ as in the Patriots as in Robert Kraft as in Bill Belichick as in the Patriot Way. Yesterday was the joint press conference between Kraft and Bill and we saw the amicable split. What happens next? Why did the move happen now? (9:33) MLB Arbitration deadline happened and what stood out? Juan Soto and the Yankees set a record. Pete Alonso settled with the Mets. Vlad, Adolis, and Arraez didn’t get deals done. And the Yankees signed free agent Stroman! (27:41) Review: Immediate Family. (31:30) We are seeing more and more Succession in real life. Now we’re seeing it with the McNair Family in Houston. (39:30) NPPOD. (42:32) And the Emmy goes to… who!? What did ESPN do? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast! Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us now: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘centrifuge’ as in carousel as in spinning and spinning and spinning as in Pete Carroll then Nick Saban and then Bill Belichick! What a day. The end of multiple eras. Let’s start with Billy B and the New England Patriots. (14:00) Nick Saban has retired from Alabama. Another legendary coach. Why now? NIL? Is he tired? Too much competition? Transfer portal? (23:30) Pete Carroll is out in Seattle. We thought that’d be the biggest news of the day… and it wasn’t close! (31:55) Review: Continental Divide. (37:20) NPPOD. (39:30) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about the NFL and the retirement package deals they are giving to employees. Why is this happening? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast! Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us now: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘enough already’ as in we get it as in please stop as in Jimmy Kimmel as in Aaron Rodgers as in Pat McAfee as in it’s never ending. Why? Why so public? What is Disney doing? What is ESPN doing? (14:10) The Tennessee Titans fired Mike Vrabel. Fine, that’s their decision. But, when asked about trading him… the owner said it would take too long? Huh? (28:07) Review: Good Grief. (34:23) NPPOD - The Raptors head coach went off on the refs. My lanta! (44:00) What is going on with MLB and Amazon and Diamond Sports Group? Let’s update you on the future of streaming. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast! Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us now: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘euphoria’ as in excitement as in Michigan as in the Wolverines as in Jim Harbaugh as in college football as in the Michigan Wolverines are the champions of the college football world. What is next for Harbaugh? More suspensions? Back to Michigan? Headed to the NFL? (13:20) We have to update the Wait To See. Accountability! (15:20) We interrupt this Wait To See to talk about Josh Harris and the Commanders. (24:20) We are back to Wait To See. (35:20) Review: Anatomy of a Fall. (37:51) NPPOD. (42:00) Draymond Green says he would have retired if it weren’t fort for Adam Silver. What? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast! Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us now: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘decision pt.2’ as in choices as in business as in ESPN as in Pat McAfee as in Norby Williamson. What are we talking about? Friday was a day ESPN wished it could forget. (15:20) The NFL playoffs are set! Who made it? Who fell apart? Coaches are getting fired! GMs are getting fired! It’s all happening live! (23:50) Should Dennis Allen keep his job with the Saints? The team doesn’t think so! (34:10) Review: Golden Globes. (40:40) NPPOD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast! Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us here: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘last gasp’ as in the final stand as in the apology tour as in Trevor Bauer is back. He appeared on Fox News and apologized for being Trevor Bauer. Why now? He wants a job. (14:30) We spoke about the Chris Sale trade and then something happened. The Braves gave him a new deal. WHAT!? (26:40) Review: Apollo 13. (32:15) Darvin Ham about to be out? Is he about to get Frank Vogel’d? What is wrong with the Lakers? (39:26) NPPOD - let’s discuss the Brooklyn Nets and the NFL playoff scenarios for Week 18. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast! Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us here: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘decision’ as in a company decision as in making a choice as in ESPN as in ABC as in Disney as in Aaron Rodgers as in Pat McAfee as in Jimmy Kimmel. What happened? What happens next? (19:10) The Jets also have a decision to make. Aaron Rodgers is coming back next year. Is Zach Wilson? (31:34) Review: Four Daughters. (36:50) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about Rory McIlroy and his apology for the criticism aimed at players who left for LIV checks. (43:15) NPPOD. (44:40) What happened with Kyrie Irving, the Utah Jazz, and a couple of rabbis? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast! Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us here: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘cause’ as in termination for cause as in contract details as in Wander Franco as in the Tampa Bay Rays. We haven’t heard from Franco since last august because of an investigation into a relationship with a minor. Details are starting to trickle out of the Dominican Republic about his arrest for not appearing in court. What is baseball doing? (17:07) The Atlanta Braves have traded for Chris Sale. They also get a wheelbarrow full of cash so they’ll only pay Sale $500K. Why did the Red Sox do this? Why would the Braves do this? (27:45) Yoshinobu Yamamoto contract details have come out. Elbow clause!? (37:50) Review: Saltburn. (40:20) The NFL has fined David Tepper $300K for his drink throw. And then he released a lame statement. (45:20) NPPOD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast! Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us here: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘champagne showers’ as in the New Year is here as in let’s celebrate as in David Tepper, the owner of the Carolina Panthers, celebrated the new year by throwing a drink on a Jaguars fan. I cannot believe it. The NFL has a Tepper problem. (13:50) What in the world is happening with Russell Wilson and the Denver Broncos? Sean Payton said one thing. Russell Wilson said another thing. All bad. (28:25) Review: Maestro (33:00) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me if Florida State getting blown out by Georgia means the CFP Committee got things right. (42:30) NPPOD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast - Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us here: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is… cmon… did you guess… ‘mailbag’ as in another one as in DJ Khaled as in the end of the year is here but we are not but we kind of are! We start with my 2023 resolutions and how I did… spoiler alert! … not great! (8:45) Okay, we’re onto the 2024 New Year’s resolutions. These ones will be done! (14:20) Someone asked how some franchises are so successful and some are such failures — is there a secret sauce? — time for some self-reflection. (22:34) It’s time for some Meadowlark Media business time. Let’s answer a question. (33:40) Top Stories for 2024. These are things I want you to pay attention to. Please. (42:15) Here are my top 10 movies of 2023! (47:40) It’s time for the top 10 TV shows of 2023! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast - Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us here: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is… you guessed it… ‘mailbag’ as in we are not here but we are here for you. You have questions. We have answers. Someone asked me if I were commissioner for a day what would I change or add to make the game more attractive to a younger demographic. How perfect. (21:12) MLB is launching a top prospects showcase during Spring Training. MLB is doing what it can. (33:50) How do players get taxed? The Lakers win the in-season tournament and the players won $500,000 — they won in Nevada, they play in California, and the league office is in New York. How does this work for tax purposes? (43:33) Let’s talk about the relationship between a team’s front office and the broadcasters. Who picks them? Who hires them? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast - Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us here: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘mailbag’ as in Christmas as in Kwanza as in New Years as in it’s holiday mailbag time because NPDS is out of the country. But, the show goes on! How are giveaways done? Who makes up the schedule? Why are certain items given away on a day? Who plans it? (15:03) What is a new stadium survey? Do they even matter? Do teams just send them out for funsies? (29:40) A lifelong Clevelander asked about stadium renovations. The Guardians are removing the upper deck seats and adding partytime playhouses. Does this mean teams now are under the impression that smaller is better? (37:05) Who are the top 5 athletes I’d want to take on a weekend vacation… interesting. (44:00) Walking about the stadium and Guaranteed Rate Field doesn’t allow you to walk around the lower concourse. Why is that? They have more food options and I want to explore the stadium. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast - Best Sports Business Podcast! You can vote for us here: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘$1.16 BILLION’ as in the Dodgers and in Shohei Ohtani as in Tyler Glasnow as in Yoshinobu Yamamoto as in the Los Angeles Dodgers have taken over. How ddi this deal happen? How long is the contract? Is it a Shohei style deal? What do the Yankees and Mets do now? (17:40) MLB has new rules for 2024. Sorry players. The Competition Committee voted and it passed. Why? Because the owners hold a majority on the committee! (32:10) Review: Survivor 45. (38:10) It’s the NFL Weekend Takeover! 7 standalone games! Thursday! Saturday! Sunday! Monday! FOOTBALL! (42:00) NPPOD. (45:20) Have you seen Zion Williamson’s contract clauses? Health and conditioning is a big one! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been nominated in two categories for the Sports Podcast Awards! Best Baseball Podcast -Best Sports Business Podcast - You can vote for us here: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘serious’ as in a very serious offer not just an offer as in not just a regular offer or a bad offer. It’s a VERY SERIOUS offer that the Mets are readying for Yoshinobu Yamamoto. What does that even mean? (12:20) Are the Wizards and Capitals moving to Virginia or not? The Governor is on board. A State Senator is fully off board. Which matters? (22:54) Review: The Big Chill (28:20) The Super League is back! Who wants in!? Apparently nobody! (38:05) What’s happening with MLS? (43:00) NPPOD. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

VOTE FOR NOTHING PERSONAL IN BEST BASEBALL AND BEST SPORTS BUSINESS PODCAST: https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/shortlist-category/ Today’s word of the day is ‘nightmare’ as in bad news as in the worst possible situation as in the New York Jets are back again. Zach Wilson’s mom went public and said Zach hid his concussion symptoms during the Jets loss to the Dolphins. Oh boy. The Jets had said it was dehydration. (14:35) Aaron Rodgers was back on Pat McAfee’s show and guess what he did… said he wasn’t going to play today! Hurray! Who could have seen that one coming? (25:55) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about Tommy DeVito and what happened with his appearance at a New Jersey pizzeria. (33:16) We’ve been nominated for Sports Podcast Awards: Best Baseball Podcast and Best Sports Business Podcast! VOTE VOTE VOTE! (36:19) NPPOD. (39:21) Review: The Persian Version. (42:29) Let’s talk about ticket prices. The Detroit Lions are winning games. The Detroit Lions are now increasing ticket prices. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

HOLIDAY MERCH SALE: https://davidsamsonpodcast.com/shop/ Today’s word of the day is ‘paywall’ as in pay per view as in Netflix as in Amazon as in Max as in everything you want to see is going to be behind a paywall. Remember the cable bundle? Welcome back! Let’s talk about the RSNs and what’s happening with MLB. (16:00) What was the conclusion of the Nationals and Orioles settlement? Hundreds of millions of dollars! Now that that’s wrapped up what will happen to each club? (27:25) Review: Little Richard - I Am Everything. (30:55) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about Miles Bridges not being let into Canada for an NBA game. Will he get paid? What happens when this happens with your player? (37:40) NPPOD. (43:15) NFL Brazil! Are the Miami Dolphins heading down to South… America? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have a real businessman on the today's episode, as David Samson, host of Nothing Personal with David Samson, joins the show to teach us about sports business from the front office's perspective!  This might be the smartest Cooligans episode of all time! We're honored to be joined by former Miami Marlins team president and fellow member of the Meadowlark family, David Samson, to learn about the business of soccer. Christian and Alexis ask questions about the MLS-Apple TV deal, the Glazer family's battle with Manchester United supporters, Todd Boehly's shortcomings at Chelsea, and much more. You're guaranteed to walk away from this episode more informed than you were before. Let us know what you think in the comments! Make sure to check out David's podcast, Nothing Personal with David Samson, for more sports business coverage! Exclusive content: https://www.patreon.com/SoccerCooligans This is where we put everything we shouldn't say 😉 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

HOLIDAY MERCH SALE: https://davidsamsonpodcast.com/shop/ Today’s word of the day is ‘activate’ as in you are scrambling to get your gifts as in Christmas is approaching as in New Years is approaching as in Aaron Rodgers has been medically cleared. Are the Jets going to play Rodgers? 13th straight seasons without playoffs. 8th straight losing season. Zach Wilson hurt again. Is it worth it? (12:00) The NFL hot seat is scorching right now. It’s that time of the year. Brandon Staley and the Chargers are done. That’s what happens when you get blown out by the Raiders on primetime. What about Ron Rivera and the Commanders? Is it time? (27:50) Review: The Family Plan. (33:00) Wine and dine time. It’s the pursuit of Yoshinobu Yamamoto. We’ve now got dinner party time! This time it’s the Mets. Then the next day it was the Yankees. Who will he sign with? (40:00) NPPOD. (44:20) Max Scherzer is done until at least June/July. Back surgery. The Mets are paying big money to the Rangers for this too.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

HOLIDAY MERCH SALE: https://davidsamsonpodcast.com/shop/ Today’s word of the day is ‘presser’ as in press conference as in introduction as in Shohei Ohtani as in the Los Angeles Dodgers as in media frenzy. What a day yesterday. What did Ohtani have to say about his surgery, his contract, and his future. (17:30) Not only did the Dodgers introduce Ohtani, but they traded for Tyler Glasnow. Financial bullying! (22:40) What is going on with the Tampa Bay Rays? A city council member wants the name changed to St. Pete and the team is refusing. Could it collapse the deal? (31:40) Review: Modern Romance. (36:10) What is happening with the Washington sports teams? Are the Wizards and Capitals moving down the road to Virginia? (43:20) NPPOD. (47:00) What is happening with Inter Miami’s new stadium? Remember it was supposed to be privately funded. Well, not anymore! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

HOLIDAY MERCH SALE: https://davidsamsonpodcast.com/shop/ Today’s word of the day is ‘repeated history’ as in again and again and again as in not learning as in Draymond Green has been suspended indefinitely for what the NBA is calling repeated history. What does it all mean? Why indefinite? What are these requirements? (11:45) What happened with the Pacers and the Bucks? Arguing. Chasing down tunnel. Over a game ball? REALLY? (21:00) The Shohei Ohtani Clause. What is that? Things in his contract that most players will never get! (32:33) Review: Fletch. (37:20) NFL is going to Brazil! More international games. Less domestic games. How do you feel? (45:00) NPPOD. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

HOLIDAY MERCH SALE: https://davidsamsonpodcast.com/shop/ Today’s word of the day is ‘full court press’ as in pressure as in the clock is ticking as in defense as in aggressive as in Yoshinobu Yamamoto is the most coveted free agent on the market right now. The 25-year Japanese star has met with the Mets in Japan, and now the Yankees and Dodgers in California. (15:00) The San Francisco Giants signed Jung Hoo Lee to a 6-year, $113 million deal. They were in on Ohtani. They made an offer. Not enough. (20:00) Juan Soto met the media as a Yankee for the first time yesterday… via Zoom. What? The Yankees needed to do better. Soto kept deflecting to Scott Boras. Wonderful. (29:15) Review: The Adults. (34:20) So You Wanna Talk to Samson!? Someone asked me about international Winter Baseball. The Venezuelan League. The Dominican League. Stars are playing. MLB players are getting hurt. (41:07) NPPOD. Nikola Jokic ejected for saying something to the refs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

HOLIDAY MERCH SALE: https://davidsamsonpodcast.com/shop/ Today’s word of the day is ‘creditor’ as in credit cards as in buy now, pay later as in the Los Angeles Dodgers are getting away with paying Shohei Ohtani just $2 million for 10 years and then $68 million per year after that! WHAT! Here is a full breakdown of everything, I mean everything, you need to know about these payments. (37:20) Review: Leave the World Behind. (39:45) The Los Angeles Lakers are hanging an in-season tournament banner. Yup, champagne showers and banners. (43:02) NPPOD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

HOLIDAY MERCH SALE: https://davidsamsonpodcast.com/shop/ Today’s word of the day is ‘wonderful people’ as in you, the fan, and the people that Ohtani met along the way. That’s what his agent said. Everyone is wonderful when you’re getting $700 MILLION! Let’s talk some more about the Shohei Ohtani deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. (10:31) We have a referee problem. Trust level is just not there. Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid sounded off on refs after the Chiefs lose on Sunday night. Adam Schefter had a report about another crew blowing calls. (30:15) Review: Killers of the Flower Moon. (35:48) NPPOD. What did you think of the in-season tournament? Fan? Not a fan? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

HOLIDAY MERCH SALE: https://davidsamsonpodcast.com/shop/ Shohei Ohtani has signed a $700 MILLION deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers! Sorry, Anaheim! Sorry, Toronto! Sorry, San Francisco! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices