Hour 2: Draft Day Bidding Wars and New York’s Missing Pitching
Hour 2: Draft Day Bidding Wars and New York’s Missing Pitching  
Podcast: The Carton Show with Craig Carton & Chris McMonigle
Published On: Tue Dec 23 2025
Description: In this high-energy holiday edition, Marc "Moose" Malusis dives deep into the state of New York sports as 2025 comes to a close. The conversation kicks off with the New York Jets’ draft strategy, specifically whether the team should trade a haul of picks to move up for Indiana quarterback Francisco Mendoza. Malusis weighs the massive capital required against the desperate need for a long-term solution under center, referencing the cautionary tale of Sam Darnold’s development. The focus then shifts to the New York Mets, where Moose handles a flurry of calls from frustrated fans. The debate centers on David Stearns’ analytical approach to player valuation, the departure of homegrown stars like Pete Alonso, and the glaring absence of a starting pitching rotation as Christmas approaches. Malusis also addresses rumors of a toxic clubhouse culture and the pressure on manager Carlos Mendoza to reign in a team of high-priced egos. Finally, the show touches on the Giants' coaching future and the nuances of raising "good human beings" in a fast-paced world.