I am not a regular TechCrunch reader, but I find it difficult imagine that they would pass on writing about a hot new startup, just because some other site already wrote about it.
I stopped reading TC a while ago because the signal to noise ratio started diving, but I wouldn't read it now even if it had great content. I don't care who has what first, I'll read who's comprehensive and honest.
Mike wants to be the new CNET and that's not going to happen by being a bitch about being first.