Joe Benigno and Evan Roberts

From 'Rico Brogna' (subscribe here): Nolan McLean gets the start for Sunday and unfortunately doesn't get a decision. Sean Manaea gets the call out of the pen and the result is met with mixed opinions. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What is the best overreaction to the Yankee and Met weekends? UCONN prevails this weekend while the johnnies' season ends.

The 4th and final hour of Evan & Tiki brings the heat! “Red Sox Suck” Controversy, Ghost Runner WAR, & Knicks Reality Check

Baseball is back and with just one weekend in the books, the overreactions are already flying. The Yankees look unstoppable after a dominant opening series, sparking big questions about whether their rotation and bullpen could be the best in baseball. At the same time, Mets fans are already feeling the tension as early struggles and high expectations collide in a cold and emotional start to the season. Evan Roberts and Tiki Barber break down the biggest takeaways from Opening Weekend, including standout performances, surprising concerns, and the reality behind the hot takes. They dive into early Yankees dominance, Mets frustrations, Bo Bichette's honesty about pressing under pressure, and the fine line between fan passion and impatience in New York.

A loaded hour of New York sports starts with a deep dive into St. John's heartbreaking loss to Duke and the coaching decision that still doesn't sit right. The focus turns to Rick Pitino's choice to bench a red hot player at a crucial moment, sparking a bigger conversation about trusting rotations versus riding the hot hand when everything is on the line. From there, the discussion shifts to the Knicks and whether their recent play signals a lack of urgency heading toward the postseason, along with what their ideal playoff path should be. The hour also touches on early season Mets storylines, including lineup questions, player usage, and the overreactions that always come with the first few games of the year.

NFL storylines take center stage as questions swirl around a potential Odell Beckham Jr. reunion and what it would actually mean for the Giants. The conversation digs into coach speak versus real intent, whether bringing Odell back makes sense at this stage, and how much teams should rely on veteran upside versus proving it on the field. The discussion then shifts to the Jets and the decision to publicly lock in Geno Smith as the starting quarterback, sparking debate over strategy, transparency, and draft implications. Plus, the guys mix in baseball innovations, commissioner rankings, and a surprising historical nugget that sends the conversation in a completely unexpected direction.

A harmless joke turns into a full-blown debate when Shaun's “Red Sox suck” shout at a local fundraiser lands with a thud instead of laughs. The crew breaks down the awkward moment, questioning whether it was bad timing, the wrong crowd, or an overreaction from the room. It sparks a bigger conversation about sports culture, local pride, and where the line actually is when it comes to fandom. Plus, Evan and Tiki dive into baseball's most polarizing rule changes, including the ghost runner in extra innings, and whether convenience is ruining the integrity of the game. Add in a viral ballpark photo, some classic fan hypocrisy arguments, and a heated back-and-forth on staying until the final out, and you've got a mix of humor, frustration, and classic sports talk energy throughout.

A bold claim kicks off the final stretch as the conversation turns to whether Rob Manfred has quietly become the best commissioner in sports. It sparks a lively debate about what actually matters most to fans, from rule changes to overall enjoyment, and whether recent tweaks have truly improved the game. Evan Roberts and Tiki Barber break down the biggest changes in baseball, including the pitch clock, ghost runner, and the ABS challenge system, debating what works and what still feels off. They also dive into early reactions from players and fans, strategy implications, and how these innovations are already shaping games in real time.

The Jets make an early declaration at quarterback, but is it the right move? After publicly naming Geno Smith as the starter, the discussion turns to whether showing that kind of confidence helps establish leadership or creates unnecessary risk before the draft even unfolds. Evan Roberts and Tiki Barber debate the strategy behind revealing too much too soon, including how it impacts draft positioning, competition, and locker room dynamics. They also explore whether this signals a bigger organizational shift or simply reflects a coach trying to assert control, and what it could mean for the Jets moving forward.

The early buzz out of the NFL owners meetings sparks a big question for Giants fans: could Odell Beckham Jr. really return? After John Harbaugh leaves the door open and offers glowing praise, the conversation dives into what's real versus coach speak and whether a reunion would actually help the team. Evan Roberts and Tiki Barber break down the risk versus reward of bringing back a veteran like Odell, debating timing, roster impact, and whether he still has enough left to contribute. They also explore how teams evaluate players in situations like this and what it would take for a move like this to make sense.

The focus shifts to the Knicks and a heated debate over what actually matters most heading into the playoffs. Is it about seeding, matchups, or simply playing better basketball right now? After another frustrating loss, questions arise about effort, consistency, and whether this team can just flip a switch when the postseason begins. Evan and Tiki break down the numbers behind the loss, including a massive free throw disparity, while also debating whether dropping in the standings could actually benefit the Knicks' playoff path. The hour wraps with fan calls and a look at the latest buzz surrounding a potential Odell Beckham Jr. return, adding another layer to an already packed New York sports conversation.

St. John's comes up short against Duke, but the conversation quickly turns to the decision everyone is questioning: why take out a player who was clearly having the game of his life? The focus is on Rick Pitino's rotation choice and whether sticking to a preset plan instead of riding the hot hand ultimately changed the outcome. Evan and Tiki debate coaching philosophy in high pressure moments, explore whether this was a simple oversight or a calculated risk, and dig into the emotional aftermath for fans. They also zoom out to what this loss means for the program, including how to define success and the reality that opportunities in March do not always come around again.

A wild sports weekend wraps with chaos on multiple fronts, from a stunning buzzer beater in the NCAA Tournament to continued early season tension around the Mets. As emotions run high, questions emerge about decision making, execution, and how much any of it should really matter this early in the year. Evan Roberts and Tiki Barber react to UConn's dramatic win over Duke and what makes a moment truly iconic, while also digging into Mets frustrations including questionable coaching decisions, bullpen usage, and the risks of early panic. They balance big picture perspective with passionate fan reactions as the season and storylines begin to take shape.

Opening Weekend is in the books, and the reactions are already getting loud. After just three games, the Yankees are being talked about like a dominant force with elite pitching and a lineup firing early, while the Mets are already facing questions despite a winning series. It is the perfect mix of excitement and overreaction that only baseball's return can bring. Evan Roberts and Tiki Barber lean into the early storylines, breaking down why the Yankees' hot start feels both real and exaggerated, and why Mets fans are already uneasy about certain performances. They explore standout pitching, early offensive trends, and the natural urge to draw big conclusions from a tiny sample size as the season gets underway.

Hear from the best guests of the week on WFAN, including Keith Hernandez, Steve Schirripa (14:54), Ron Darling (47:21), Nick Swisher (1:01:17), and Ian Eagle (1:11:02).

The Mets started off the season with a bang, and our hosts have all the instant reaction to a memorable Opening Day, from Carson Benge's MLB intro to the new-look lineup rallying against Paul Skenes. Plus, Evan's journey to finding his wallet that he lost en route to the game!

From 'Rico Brogna' (subscribe here): Opening day never gets old, especially when you can almost guarantee a Mets win. In a day where the Mets knocked out Paul Skenes in the first, the biggest excitement may have come off of Carson Benge's first hit of his career. What a start! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Mets had a succesful Opening Day, Ian Eagle joins us ahead of St.Johns-Duke, and much more

Opening Day delivers everything optimism, overreactions, and just enough weirdness to remind you baseball is truly back. The Mets kick off their season with a win that highlights a new identity at the plate, sparking excitement about what this team could become. From patient at-bats to manufacturing runs in multiple ways, there's plenty to feel good about even if it's only one game. The conversation dives into standout performances, early impressions of the revamped roster, and why this version of the Mets feels different from years past. Along the way, things take a turn into the bizarre with a dead bird incident in the outfield, a breakdown of the infamous 9-9-9 challenge, and a wild lost-and-found story that perfectly captures the unpredictability of Opening Day.

Opening Day gave Mets fans more than just baseball—it offered a glimpse into a possible power shift inside the clubhouse. Observations from the pregame introductions spark a bigger conversation: has Juan Soto already become the face and leader of the team, and what does that mean for Francisco Lindor and the Mets moving forward? Evan and Tiki break down the subtle but telling dynamics between Soto and Lindor, the reaction of younger players, and how roster changes may have paved the way for Soto to take control. They also touch on whether chemistry really matters, reflect on past clubhouse tensions across baseball, and react to Opening Day moments—from anthem controversy to fan overreactions—while weighing what actually matters as the season begins.

The Yankees may have struck out at the trade deadline, but a bigger story could be brewing. Evan and Tiki break down reports that New York already has its eyes on Paul Skenes as a future must-get star, debating whether the Yankees are quietly planning their next massive pitching investment and how it fits into their long-term financial outlook. Plus, the show takes a chaotic turn with the return of Bad Tiki, bringing wild accusations, over-the-top antics, and a completely unhinged segment that spirals into parody and absurdity. Along the way, the guys touch on early season baseball storylines, fan reactions, and the quirks that make Opening Day and the start of the season so entertaining.

The 4th and final hour of WFAN's Evan & Tiki is absolute Opening Day chaos!

Baseball takes center stage as the guys dream up the ultimate New York doubleheader and react to early season Yankees lineup decisions that already have fans questioning strategy. The energy builds around what these choices mean long term and how quickly opinions can shift once the season gets underway. They also break down the buzz around Tom Hanks starring in a new baseball movie and whether it can revive a genre that has been quiet for years, while debating what truly makes a great sports film. The show wraps with a hilarious round of Idiots with Idioms, highlighting the week's most ridiculous on air slip ups and keeping things light with plenty of laughs.

A debate over Francisco Lindor's first home run of the season sets the tone as the crew dives into predictions, second guesses, and the art of the long term sports bet. What starts as a simple baseball question quickly expands into a mix of Mets talk, fan expectations, and the unpredictable nature of early season storylines. The conversation takes a hilarious turn when ballpark traditions come under scrutiny, leading to a surprisingly heated discussion about peanut shells, stadium etiquette, and whether fans are justified in leaving a mess behind. Along the way, there are personal confessions, awkward realizations, and plenty of laughs as everyday habits get called out in a way only this show can deliver.

Shaun Morash takes over with a fan favorite segment, Cinco de Luncho, diving into the ultimate debate: which foods actually taste better at a baseball game. From classic staples to newer ballpark trends, the crew breaks down what makes certain foods hit different when paired with nine innings and a cold drink. The conversation turns into a lively back and forth as Evan and Tiki challenge the rankings, defend traditional picks, and argue over whether staples like hot dogs still deserve the crown. With strong opinions, plenty of laughs, and some unexpected takes, the segment captures the fun and nostalgia that make ballpark food such a huge part of the baseball experience.

Things go completely off the rails as Bad Tiki takes over, hijacking the show with wild insults, bizarre logic, and a segment that spirals into pure chaos. Evan and Tiki try to keep things grounded, but the madness only escalates as Bad Tiki introduces over-the-top characters, stirs up drama, and pushes the limits of what can happen on live radio. Amid the insanity, the crew reacts in real time to the absurdity, blending humor with disbelief as the segment builds into one of the most unpredictable moments of the show. Once the dust settles, the conversation shifts back toward baseball, including the Yankees' long-term thinking and their apparent interest in landing a future ace.

After a Mets Opening Day win, the conversation shifts into full fan mode with calls, stories, and unexpected tangents that capture the energy of baseball being back. From historical Mets memories to quirky in game moments, the vibe turns loose, funny, and unmistakably New York. The guys react to everything from a debated national anthem mishap to a bizarre dead bird story from Mets history, while also breaking down fan perspectives on scoring plays, ballpark experiences, and expectations for the season. Plus, a hilarious detour into a Jerry Seinfeld interview sparks a debate about comedy, relatability, and what makes iconic moments stick.

Opening Day gave more than just baseball, it gave a glimpse into the Mets' evolving identity. From subtle interactions during player introductions to the energy surrounding the team's biggest star, questions are already forming about leadership, chemistry, and what this version of the Mets will look like moving forward. The conversation dives into the noticeable dynamic between Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor, what it signals about the clubhouse hierarchy, and why Soto appears to have quickly become the focal point of the team. Plus, the guys react to Opening Day moments, debate whether these observations actually matter, and explore how quickly narratives can shift when a new superstar takes center stage.

The NCAA Tournament intensity is reaching another level as St. John's resurgence collides with Duke's high expectations. With a Final Four feel in the air, the conversation dives into whether this red-hot St. John's team is truly destined for a breakthrough or if Duke will reassert its dominance when it matters most. From Rick Pitino's remarkable redemption arc to questions about Duke's vulnerability, the discussion explores key matchups, coaching contrasts, and the rise of standout talent like Cameron Boozer. The episode also zooms out to examine a stacked region featuring powerhouse programs, breaking down why this stretch of March Madness feels as wide open—and as compelling—as ever.

The Mets start the season with a win, but it wouldn't be Mets baseball without a little weirdness mixed in. Evan and Tiki break down an Opening Day that had everything encouraging signs on the field, strange moments in the stands, and even a bizarre dead bird incident that somehow turns into a debate about omens and rally symbols. Beyond the chaos, the guys dig into what actually matters: a lineup focused on contact, forcing mistakes, and creating runs in ways that could make this team dangerous. They also react to standout performances, surprising early stats, and what this first game may or may not tell us about the Mets' season ahead.

Opening Day delivered exactly what Mets fans were craving a win, a fresh identity, and plenty of reasons for optimism. The guys break down how the Mets manufactured runs, battled through tough at-bats, and showed off a new offensive approach that could define their season. They also dive into the full ballpark experience, from traffic headaches and quirky fan challenges to a bizarre on-field moment involving a dead bird. Plus, Evan shares a wild personal story involving a lost wallet that somehow finds its way back, adding another unforgettable layer to an already eventful day at the ballpark.

The Yankees rolled to victory in their season opener, and our hosts have all the instant reactions, ranging from the game itself to the broadcast on Netflix and what to make of Aaron Judge's rough night.

Opening Day should be all about baseball, but this Yankees win came with a major distraction. Evan and Tiki dive into the reaction from fans after a dominant performance on the field was overshadowed by a chaotic and overproduced Netflix broadcast. From missed pitches to unnecessary cutaways, the conversation centers on how the viewing experience impacted what should've been a clean, exciting start to the season. They break down Max Fried's strong outing, the Yankees' aggressive approach at the plate, and why a stress-free win still left fans frustrated. The discussion expands into the balance between entertainment and sport, including missed moments like the hyped first pitch and awkward in-game segments. Plus, Mets Opening Day energy builds, with fan excitement, travel headaches, and expectations for a completely revamped roster all adding to the buzz.

Opening Day delivers plenty to unpack as baseball debuts its long-awaited ABS challenge system—and the first real test leaves more confusion than excitement. The guys react to the surprisingly anticlimactic moment, debate how players will actually use challenges moving forward, and question whether strategy or emotion will ultimately drive decisions in big spots. Beyond the new tech, the conversation shifts to a full slate of Opening Day storylines—from bold home run predictions and Mets expectations to Francisco Lindor's return and lingering questions about roster decisions. Add in streaming frustrations, broadcast quirks, and the usual mix of humor and fan perspective, and it's a lively breakdown of everything that made Day 1 of the season memorable.

Opening Day brings optimism—and uncertainty—for a dramatically reshaped Mets roster. With big offseason moves and a wave of new faces debuting together, the conversation centers on whether this team is built to contend or destined to disappoint. The stakes feel high, and the margin for error may be razor thin in a crowded National League race. The discussion dives into projected win totals, playoff expectations, and just how far strong pitching can carry this group. There's also a deeper look at how small moments—like tiebreakers and early-season games—can define a season, along with bold predictions on how it all could end. Add in Opening Day energy, fan expectations, and a few unexpected tangents, and it's a full snapshot of where the Mets stand right now.

The 4th hour of the Evan & Tiki Show delivers absolute Opening Day madness.

Yankees win but the Netflix broadcast left a lot to be desired. The Mets get set to open the season.

Evan's race to Citi Field hits its final stretch as he arrives mid-game, catching the chaos of Opening Day already in full swing. Between navigating the train, waking up a sleeping kid, and reacting live to what's happening on the field, his journey becomes part of the show as the Mets waste no time delivering early drama. The conversation tracks the game as it unfolds, from a shaky start on the mound to a sudden offensive explosion that flips the mood instantly. Alongside the live reactions, there's continued debate over what early moments mean for the bigger picture, plus fan calls ranging from optimism to long-term league concerns. It all blends into a fast-moving snapshot of Opening Day energy, where unpredictability is the only constant.

As first pitch approaches, the focus shifts to the Opening Day broadcast experience, with frustrations over national coverage missing key moments like player introductions. At the same time, Evan's real-time journey to Citi Field continues, adding urgency and humor as he navigates trains, timing, and the challenge of making it before the game truly gets underway. The conversation also dives into a “Cinco” breakdown of Mets players who need to step up this season, highlighting expectations around key contributors and how small margins could define their success. It all builds to a chaotic but memorable pregame moment, as a national anthem mishap sparks debate, reactions, and even optimism about what it could symbolize for the team's resilience.

As Opening Day unfolds, the focus shifts from on-field expectations to the real-life chaos of getting to the ballpark—highlighted by Evan's unpredictable journey to Citi Field. Battling traffic, transit issues, and timing decisions on the fly, his attempt to make first pitch becomes a story of its own, capturing the stress and excitement fans know all too well. The conversation leans into the lighter side of the day, from ballpark food debates to hilarious subway encounters and fan traditions. Between travel mishaps, concession quirks, and the shared grind of Opening Day logistics, it's a snapshot of everything that makes the experience memorable—before you even see a pitch thrown.

The Mets kick off their season with a completely retooled roster, bringing both excitement and uncertainty to Opening Day. With major additions and a fresh identity taking the field, the big question is simple: is this team built to contend, or could it fall flat despite all the spending? The conversation sets the stage for a season that feels unpredictable from the very start. The first stretch focuses on the team's wide range of outcomes, from strong pitching potential to concerns about whether big-name moves will actually translate into wins. Win projections vary, playoff expectations are debated, and comparisons to past high-spending teams add another layer of intrigue. It's a deep dive into why this Mets season could go in almost any direction—and why that makes it so compelling.

Opening Day had everything—except smooth execution. From confusing start times and streaming issues to unexpected in-game distractions, the experience left plenty to unpack beyond just the action on the field. The guys dive into how the viewing experience is changing, what worked, what didn't, and why something as simple as watching a game at a bar suddenly isn't so simple anymore. On the field, the conversation turns to early reactions, bold predictions, and some classic New York tension. There's debate over breakout performances, emotional fan responses, and whether it's too soon for strong takes. Add in some sharp back-and-forth and personality-driven moments, and it's a lively close to an Opening Day show that captures both the excitement and the chaos of baseball's return.