Show notes

0:18 — Chris Horwedel and Greg Crone open with Wrexham’s preseason draw against Wisła Kraków, early Champions League qualifying, the approaching NFL season, soccer’s nearly nonexistent offseason and the growth of Underdog Podcasts’ newer shows. 5:31 — The 2026 Home Run Derby in Philadelphia is reviewed through its new swing-based format, Jordan Walker’s dramatic final against Kyle Schwarber, the hometown crowd, Netflix’s broadcast problems, the bracket setup and the magenta-ball controversy. 9:35 — A live MLB All-Star Game check-in covers Cristopher Sánchez’s opening inning, the Philadelphia atmosphere and the changing appeal of sports’ All-Star events. 10:18 — Chris quizzes Greg on forgotten NBA Slam Dunk Contest winners, including Mac McClung, Anfernee Simons and Glenn Robinson III. The discussion expands to Andre Iguodala’s controversial loss, weak recent fields, the NBA bubble and why that period deserved a major documentary. 19:21 — Spain’s World Cup semifinal win over France takes center stage. The hosts discuss Spain’s defense, France’s limited chances, tournament futures from oddsmakers and the Golden Ball and Golden Boot races involving Messi, Mbappé, Bellingham, Kane and Rodri. 27:19 — England-Argentina receives a full semifinal preview, including the tight odds from oddsmakers, Jordan Pickford’s form, Argentina’s experience, England’s attacking depth, Messi’s pursuit of another title and the possibility of extra time or penalties. 30:49 — The viral photo of Lionel Messi bathing infant Lamine Yamal sparks a lighter discussion about soccer destiny, unusual sports stories and the strange possibility of the two meeting in a World Cup final. 32:01 — Chris and Greg discuss Ancestry and 23andMe-style genetic testing, family histories, immigration stories and curiosity about their own heritage. 35:04 — World Cup kickoff times lead into the difficulty of watching afternoon matches in the United States, overnight games in Europe and how global scheduling affects fans. 36:35 — The conversation moves to UK and Ireland travel, fish and chips, Indian food, limited delivery options outside major cities and businesses closing earlier than Americans expect. 38:39 — The Phillies’ trade-deadline needs are examined, with bullpen help and another right-handed bat identified as priorities. Byron Buxton, Jung Hoo Lee, Trea Turner, Justin Crawford, Brandon Marsh and J.T. Realmuto are discussed as part of Philadelphia’s second-half outlook. 44:02 — Chris and Greg debate a possible MLB work stoppage, whether baseball needs a salary cap, owner spending, deferred contracts and how labor conflict could damage the league. 47:17 — The episode closes with Portland’s ownership problems, Mike Nori’s unusual coaching contract, concerns about low guarantees and team options, and the Trail Blazers’ organizational direction.