Rangers Reality Check, Rush Redemption & Madonna Confessions | Mac Engel | Ep 252

Fort Worth Star-Telegram columnist Mac Engel joins Mike Rhyner for a wide-ranging conversation covering concert memories (Madonna, Rush, Lady Gaga, Dua Lipa), sports memorabilia, and a deep dive into what’s ailing the Texas Rangers this season, including the futures of Corey Seager and Jacob deGrom amid looming MLB lockout concerns. The episode wraps with a fun round of Proust Questionnaire-style personal questions, revealing Mike’s take on happiness, regret, and his all-time favorite interviews. A candid, funny mix of sports talk, music nostalgia, and personal reflection from two veteran Texas sports media voices.
00:00:00 – Cold open and lightning strike banter
Mike Rhyner jokes around with the crew before officially starting the show.
00:01:22 – Introducing guest Mac Engel
Mike Rhyner welcomes Fort Worth Star-Telegram columnist and podcaster Mac Engel to episode 252.
00:02:16 – The “Shoopy” nickname origin story
Mac Engel asks about Mike Rhyner’s nickname and they trade stories about odd nicknames.
00:04:52 – Ribbing on scheduling and appearances
Playful jabs about the awkward taping time and Mike Rhyner’s enviable hair.
00:07:52 – Touring Mike’s sports memorabilia collection
Mac Engel admires Mike Rhyner’s office collectibles, including a rare Beatles press conference photo from Dallas.
00:12:53 – Legendary concerts and music memories
Stories about seeing Elvis, missing Johnny Cash, and reminiscing about classic concert history.
00:14:10 – The Rush reunion show and Geddy Lee
Discussion of a recent Rush concert, new drummer Anika Nilles, and Mike Rhyner’s changing opinion on the band over the years.
00:19:53 – Lady Gaga, Dua Lipa, and pop concert culture
Mac Engel shares concert experiences with his daughter and they debate iconic pop performers like Madonna and Dua Lipa.
00:26:56 – State of the Texas Rangers
The conversation shifts to the Rangers’ disappointing season and who’s to blame between ownership and management.
00:31:18 – MLB labor issues and looming lockout fears
Deep dive into baseball’s economics, salary caps, and predictions for a potential 2026 lockout.
00:39:38 – Player development failures and Corey Seager’s future
Analysis of the Rangers’ inability to develop prospects and speculation about trading Corey Seager.
00:46:36 – Dominant teams and competitive balance in baseball
Debate over whether super-teams like the Dodgers are good or bad for the sport.
00:51:22 – The Proust Questionnaire with Mike Rhyner
Mac Engel runs Mike Rhyner through a lighthearted personality quiz covering happiness, regrets, and favorite things.
00:59:50 – Favorite and least favorite interviews
Both hosts share memorable interview experiences, including Johnny Unitas and Stuart Copeland.
01:08:41 – Sign-off and sponsor reads
Mike Rhyner wraps up the episode with thanks to Mac Engel and promotional reads for Dudley’s Sports Grill.