Hour 4: Rangers are off to a hot start to the season and are replacement refs coming back to the NFL
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In this episode of Shan and RJ, the hosts dive into the Rangers' strong 3-1 start to the 2026 MLB season, praising their offense and the new ABS (Automated Ball-Strike) challenge system, which has dramatically increased in-game drama and accuracy. They express enthusiasm for the lasso celebration and the high overturn rate of calls—especially by catchers—while questioning the psychological impact on umpires after being proven wrong. The conversation shifts to NFL concerns, with growing evidence that replacement referees may return due to unresolved labor disputes, sparking alarm over potential officiating chaos. The hosts critique the NFL's handling of the situation, noting the high salaries of officials and the unfairness of replacing them, while also discussing recent NFL offseason drama involving the Ravens' reversal of a major trade and the Eagles' noncommittal stance on A.J. Brown. They also touch on Tiger Woods' reckless driving incident, condemning his behavior and the absurdity of his excuse for not having a personal driver. The episode closes with a playful segment on 'Nepo babies' and a betting challenge on strikeouts in the upcoming game.
The Rangers' 3-1 start is impressive, especially without DeGrom, and their offense is averaging 5-6 runs per game.
The ABS challenge system is a game-changer, with catchers overturning calls at a 64% rate and hitters winning 42% of challenges.
Umpires, particularly older ones, are being overturned at double the rate of younger officials, raising concerns about consistency.
The NFL may be forced to use replacement referees due to unresolved labor talks, which could severely impact game integrity.
Tiger Woods' driving incident—where he was looking at his phone and changed the radio station—shows reckless behavior and poor judgment.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Rangers' Hot Start and ABS Challenge System
“The ABS challenge system, in my opinion, has been awesome. I love it.”
Umpire Psychology and ABS Data
“I wonder psychologically what that does for the rest of the at-bat when that hitter wins the call against you.”
NFL Replacement Refs and Labor Dispute
“This replacement ref error was so bad. Is the NFL that arrogant that they think they can still get by with this?”
Tiger Woods' Driving Incident and PR Fiasco
The hosts condemn Tiger Woods' reckless driving, including changing the radio station while looking at his phone, and mock his excuse for not having a personal driver.
Ravens' Trade Reversal and NFL PR Failures
The hosts criticize the Baltimore Ravens for their poor handling of the Max Crosby trade reversal, calling it one of the dumbest PR moves in NFL history.
“I don't feel 1% sorry for this moron. What an idiot.”
“This replacement ref error was so bad. Is the NFL that arrogant that they think they can still get by with this?”
“The ABS challenge system, in my opinion, has been awesome. I love it.”
Hosts
NFL
other
Rangers
other
ABS
other
Tiger Woods
person
Baltimore Ravens
other
A.J. Brown
person
Zach Eflin
person
Gunnar Henderson
person
Max Crosby
person
Joe Buck
person
The Cowboys sign DL Jonathan Bullard and Brian Schottenheimer spoke at the owner's meeting
Shan and RJ • 13m • 3/31/2026
Hour 1: NFL Owner's meeting recap and more Pro Days today
Shan and RJ • 40m • 3/31/2026
The Rangers' offense continues to roll except for Josh Jung
Shan and RJ • 14m • 3/31/2026
Hour 2: Dan Hurley got too close to the ref and Josh Jung has been BAD to start the season
Shan and RJ • 47m • 3/31/2026
Below the Belt: What is the most Cowboys thing they've ever done?
Shan and RJ • 11m • 3/31/2026
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