Shows
Fall Classic RewindA Comedy of Errors on Buehler's Day Off - 2024 World Series Game Five - Dodgers @ Yankees2024 World Series Game Five - Los Angeles Dodgers @ New York Yankees
We head into game five with the Dodgers just one win away from their eight World Series title, and what a ride it has been. Freddie Freeman has been the catalyst for the offense, homering in each game so far (and a record six straight World Series dating back to ’21) and driving in 10 runs, just two away from tying the record set by NYY 2B Bobby Richardson in 1960. Shohei Ohtani appears to be significantly hampered by his shoulder injury, but the offense keeps ro...
2024-11-011h 17Fall Classic RewindFreeman's Fantasy - 2024 World Series - Dodgers @ Yankees2024 World Series - Los Angeles Dodgers @ New York Yankees
Games Three and Four @ Yankee Stadium
The Dodgers head into the Bronx leading the series two games to none, taking care of business in their home ballpark against the Yankees. It took an incredible walk-off grand slam, courtesy of Freddie Freeman, and then a dominant performance from Yoshinobu Yamamoto to get Los Angeles in to this position, but they’ll certainly take it. Freeman has been the star so far, with another homer in game two. Tommy Edman and Teóscar...
2024-10-301h 03Fall Classic RewindFreddie Freeman Pulls a Kirk Gibson - 2024 World Series - Yankees @ Dodgers2024 World Series - New York Yankees @ Los Angeles Dodgers
Games One and Two @ Dodger Stadium
Here we go. For the first time since 1981, the Yankees and Dodgers will face off in the Fall Classic. It will be the twelfth matchup between these storied franchises, and the Yankees have certainly had the advantage in the past. The Bronx Bombers have taken eight of the previous eleven series, though the Dodgers have split the last six. On baseball’s biggest stage, we have the game’s biggest stars ready to shine.
2024-10-281h 06Fall Classic RewindTommy Boy - 2024 NLCS - Dodgers vs. Mets2024 National League Championship Series
Games Three, Four, and Five @ Citi Field - Queens, New York, NY
Game Six @ Dodger Stadium - Los Angeles, CA
Heading to New York, the series is tied at a game apiece. The Dodgers pummeled the Met in game one, but the Mets responded with a 7-3 win behind a leadoff Francisco Lindor homer and a Mark Vientos grand slam. The fans at Citi Field is raring to cheer on their beloved Mets, but the Dodgers big bats will look to silence the r...
2024-10-241h 00Fall Classic RewindA Soto Photo Finish - 2024 ALCS - Yankees @ Guardians2024 American League Championship Series
Games Four and Five @ Progressive Field - Cleveland, OH
The Guardians avoided going down three games to none thanks to the heroics of Jhonkensy Noel and David Fry, who respectively hit game-tying and walk-off home runs off of the Yankees relief aces. There’s a ton of excitement in the Land, but there are some ominous signs for Steven Vogt’s ball club. The starting pitching has not given length nor has it been very effective so far, and Cleveland will call upon the unproven Gavi...
2024-10-221h 04Fall Classic RewindBig Christmas on an October Fryday - 2024 ALCS Game Three - Yankees @ Guardians2024 American League Championship Series
Game Three - New York Yankees @ Cleveland Guardians
The Guardians return to Cleveland with their backs against the wall, having lost the first two game of the ALCS to the Yankees in the Bronx. Steven Vogt’s team finds themselves in a 2-0 series hole due to a mix of sloppy defense, shaky pitching, and shoddy hitting. There’s a lot that this club will have to shape up in short order if they want to avoid being down three games to none. These guys were...
2024-10-1847 minFall Classic RewindAgainst the Wind - 2024 ALCS - CLE @ NYY2024 American League Championship Series
Cleveland Guardians @ New York Yankees - Games One and Two @ Yankee Stadium
Could this finally be the year that the World Series returns to the Bronx? By nearly every measure, the last fifteen years of Yankee baseball has been a success. A winning record every year, multiple deep playoff runs, an MVP, a Cy Young, a Rookie of the Year, the list could go on. But they are missing the only accolade that matters to those who don the pinstripes, a World Series title. Never...
2024-10-1646 minFall Classic RewindLA Takedown - 2024 NLCS - Mets @ Dodgers2024 National League Championship Series
New York Mets @ Los Angeles Dodgers - Games One and Two
Once again we have a battle between Los Angeles and New York in the playoffs, but instead of Dodgers and Yankees (which we may yet see in the World Series) it will be the Dodgers taking on the Mets. Carlos Mendoza’s squad took down their division rival Phillies in just four games, behind strong starting pitching from Severino, Manaea, and Quintana, as well as clutch hitting from Mark Vientos, Pete Alonso, and superstar Fr...
2024-10-1546 minFall Classic RewindHernández y Hernández and Lane Train Leaves the Station - 2024 Division Series Game Five - SDP @ LAD & DET @ CLE2024 Divisional Round - Game Five
NLDS - Padres @ Dodgers
The Dodgers staved off elimination and embarrassment at the hand of their Southern California rivals in game four. It took standout performances from nearly the whole roster. Eight Dodger bullpen arms combined for the shutout, Mookie Betts and Will Smith homered, and now we have a winner-take-all game five on a Friday night in Chavez Ravine. It will be a duel between countrymen; Yoshinobu Yamamoto vs. Yu Darvish with a trip to the NLCS on the line. Yamamoto was lit...
2024-10-1454 minFall Classic RewindPitching Chaos and a Stantonian Resurgence - 2024 ALDS - CLE @ DET & NYY @ KCR2024 ALDS - Games Three and Four
Each series is tied heading into game three, and all four teams will want to conclude these series as quickly as possible. For Cleveland, they do not want to face Tigers ace Tarik Skubal in a game five, so they will go all out to try and win this series on the road. Detroit will embrace their pitching chaos, but that will be quite a lot of pressure on the young arms in the bullpen, all of whom are experiencing the postseason for the first time. Expect both...
2024-10-121h 03Fall Classic RewindLinsanity Returns to New York; Star Wars in California - 2024 NLDS - PHI @ NYM & LAD @ SDP2024 Divisional Round - Games Three and Four
Game three in a divisional round is always a pivotal matchup in a series, especially when the series is tied at a game apiece. If the higher seed can take the game, they will regain home field advantage, but if they fail, then they face elimination on the road. The Mets blew an opportunity to be up two games to none against the Phillies after a wild game two. They will have Sean Manaea, the unlikely ace for New York, on the mound for them against Aaron...
2024-10-111h 06Fall Classic RewindKerry Bonds and Captain Salvy - 2024 ALDS - DET @ CLE & KCR @ NYYWho would have guessed that three of the four remaining teams in the AL would be from the Central division? It maybe shouldn’t be so surprising, given how well these teams have played down the stretch. In a matchup of teams very few prognosticators and talking heads expected to be here, the Guardians and Tigers are two young teams that are acting as if they’ve been here before. Under the leadership of first year manager Steven Vogt, the AL Central champion Guardians are looking to advance for the first time since 2016, the year they lost the World Seri...
2024-10-0951 minFall Classic RewindWho Writes This Stuff? - 2024 NLDS - NYM @ PHI & SDP @ LAD2024 Postseason - National League Divisional Round
For the first time in playoff baseball history, all four divisional series are tied at one game apiece. At no point in the nearly 30 years of divisional round play have we been guaranteed a game four in every series before we have even played a single game three. Incredible! Moreover, these games have absolutely delivered on excitement and drama. Before we watch these series conclude, let’s recap the best moments so far.
Over on the NL side, we have two pairs of di...
2024-10-081h 03Fall Classic RewindO.M.G. - 2024 NL Wild Card - Mets @ Brewers2024 Postseason - Wild Card Round
New York Mets (89 - 73) @ Milwaukee Brewers (93 - 69)
The Mets were not supposed to be here. They sold at the deadline last year, even telling Max Scherzer that 2024 was going to be ‘retooling’ season, that ’25 and ’26 were when they would be competitive again. They started this season 0 - 5, and they were 11 games below .500 in late May. But then they called up an emerging pop-star (who moonlighted as a journeyman infielder), Grimace threw out a first pitch, and within a month, the Mets were back, baby! Bolstered by a veteran...
2024-10-0456 minFall Classic RewindDoyle, Dent, and Dartmouth - 1978 World Series - Dodgers vs. Yankees1978 World Series Game 5 and 6
Sunday October 15th @ Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York, New York
Tuesday October 17th @ Dodger Stadium in Chavez Ravine, Los Angeles, California
After being down two games to none to start this series, the Yankees have evened things up in the Fall Classic, and they look to keep things rolling here in game five. No team has yet to overcome a 2 - 0 deficit by winning four straight, but if any team could be the first, it would be Bob Lemon’s Yankees. They’ve certainly had...
2024-04-191h 12Fall Classic RewindSweet Lou - 1978 World Series Game Four - Dodgers @ YankeesSaturday October 14th, 1978 @ Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York, New York
The sun is out on a Saturday afternoon in the Bronx, but rain clouds are looming in the distance. Thanks to an outstanding defensive game from third baseman Graig Nettles, the Yankees took game three in convincing fashion to avoid going down three games to none in this series against the Dodgers. If they hope to even things at two games apiece, the Yanks will need a much better effort from their starting pitcher, Ed Figueroa (20 - 9 2.99 ERA 253 IP). The Puerto Rican...
2024-04-131h 04Fall Classic RewindOn Pinstripes and Nettles- 1978 World Series Game Three - Dodgers @ Yankees1978 World Series Game 3
Friday October 13th, 1978 @ Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York, New York
As the series heads east, the Dodgers are in strong position, up two games to none. Game one was a blowout, thanks to a power outburst from LAD 2B Davey Lopes, but game two was nail biter. Ron Cey drove in all four runs, including a go-ahead three run homer off of Catfish Hunter in the 6th inning. The Yankees had the tying and go-ahead runners on base in the ninth for Thurman Munson...
2024-04-051h 08Fall Classic RewindThe Captain and the Penguin - 1978 World Series Games One and Two - Yankees @ Dodgers1978 World Series Games 1 and 2
Tuesday October 10th and Wednesday October 11th @ Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, CA
The Los Angeles Dodgers (95 - 67) and the New York Yankees (100 - 63) meet yet again in the World Series. Behind the heroics of Mr. October, Reggie Jackson, the Yankees took last year’s Fall Classic in six games, securing the 21st championship in their franchise’s dominant history. If they’re going to repeat as champions, it will be with a new manager, as Bob Lemon replaced Billy Martin in July. The Yanks turned their season around under...
2024-03-291h 10Fall Classic RewindGet a Hit for Gilliam - 1978 NLCS - Phillies vs. Dodgers1978 NLCS
We have another repeat matchup on the National League side of the playoffs, with the Los Angeles Dodgers (95 - 67) and the Philadelphia Phillies (90 - 72) squaring off once again. This is the third straight NLCS appearance for the Phils, but they’ve yet to win a playoff game at Veterans Stadium, much to the disappointment of their energized fans. Although the Phillies lead the NL East for most of the season, there was fear of a 1964-esque collapse in September. The Pirates and Cubs were chasing them down, but Danny Ozark’s squad rallied for a strong finish to stave off...
2024-03-221h 07Fall Classic RewindThose Damn Yankees - 1978 ALCS - Royals vs. Yankees1978 ALCS - October 3rd - 7th, 1978
For the third straight season, the Kansas City Royals (92 - 70) and the New York Yankees (100 - 63) will battle for the American League pennant. The previous two series were classics, with the Yanks pulling through in the ninth inning of winner-take-all game fives. For the Royals, they are hoping that the third time will be the charm. Their offensive machine kept rolling, with strong performances by stalwart George Brett, reliable Darrell Porter, and a return to form from Amos Otis. The starting pitching continued to be solid, led by L...
2024-03-151h 17Fall Classic RewindBucky *Bleeping* Dent - 1978 AL East Playoff - Yankees @ Red Sox1978 Game AL East Playoff
Monday October 2nd, 1978 @ Fenway Park Boston, MA
After 162 games played, the bitter rivals of the northeast find themselves deadlocked for the division crown, each sporting identical 99-63 records. The entire season comes down to just one game at Fenway Park, and it’s gonna be a great one. It looked like it was going to be a banner year for the Red Sox, with Jim Rice playing like an MVP, Dennis Eckersley winning 20 games, and a whole host of spectacular performances. But like the previous se...
2024-03-081h 09Fall Classic RewindMr. October - 1977 World Series Game Six - Dodgers @ Yankees1977 World Series Game 6
Tuesday October 18th, 1977 @ Yankee Stadium in New York, New York
The Dodgers avoided elimination behind an explosive rout in game five, but now they’re going to have to do it on the road. Burt Hooton (12 - 7 2.62 ERA 223 IP) will get the ball with the season on the line, and the veteran righty was absolutely brilliant in game two. To stay alive in this series, LA manager Tommy Lasorda will need the man he jocularly called “Happy” to deliver once again.
The Ya...
2024-02-261h 22Fall Classic RewindFacing Elimination - 1977 World Series Game Five - Yankees @ Dodgers1977 World Series Game 5
Sunday October 16th, 1977 @ Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, CA
The Dodgers are on the verge of elimination in this World Series, and they are in serious danger of being swept in their own ballpark if they don’t win today. The usually potent offense for LA has been quieted by the New York rotation, with Mike Torrez and Ron Guidry spinning consecutive gems in games three and four, respectively. The good news for the Dodgers, they will have their future Hall-of-Famer, Don Sutton (14 - 8 3.18 ERA 240 IP), on...
2024-02-1957 minFall Classic RewindLouisiana Lightning - 1977 World Series Game Four - Yankees @ Dodgers1977 World Series Game 4
Saturday October 15th, 1977 @ Dodger Stadium Los Angeles, CA
The Yankees took game three in convincing fashion to regain home field advantage in this best of seven series. Looking to press their advantage, they will turn to an emerging star, Ron Guidry (16 - 7 2.82 ERA 210 IP). The Louisiana-born lefty broke out in a big way during his first full major league season, helping to solidify the rotation along with right-hander Mike Torrez. The 26 year old was fantastic down the stretch, going 11 - 3 over his final 16 starts with a 2.47...
2024-02-1259 minFall Classic RewindBig Mike - 1977 World Series Game Three - Yankees @ Dodgers1977 World Series Game 3
Friday October 13th, 1977 @ Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California
The series is tied at a game apiece as we head out to the West Coast for the first of three games in Los Angeles. The Dodgers are in good spirits, coming off of an absolute drubbing in game two behind a Burt Hooton masterpiece and four long home runs from Cey, Smith, Garvey, and Yeager. They turn to veteran lefty Tommy John (20 - 7 2.78 ERA 220 IP), who finished runner-up in Cy Young voting in ’77. The workhorse has be...
2024-02-0554 minFall Classic RewindHappy Hooton - 1977 World Series Game Two - Dodgers @ Yankees1977 World Series Game 2
Wednesday October 12th, 1977 @ Yankee Stadium New York, New York
After a thrilling extra-inning walk-off victory, courtesy of reserve outfielder Paul Blair, the Yankees look to press the advantage in this best of seven World Series. To the surprise of many, it will be Jim ‘Catfish’ Hunter (9 - 9 4.71 ERA 143 IP) getting the ball for Billy Martin’s Yankees, who has not pitched in over a month. It has certainly been a year to forget for the 8x All-Star, 5x 20 game winner, 3x World Series champion, former Cy Young...
2024-01-2957 minFall Classic RewindLate Inning Magic - 1977 World Series Game One - Dodgers @ Yankees1977 World Series
Game One - Tuesday October 11th, 1977 @ Yankee Stadium, New York, NY
The Big Apple versus Hollywood. The City that Never Sleeps against the City of Angels. What used to be coined the ’Subway Series’ in the 40’s and 50’s is now a battle of the coasts. The New York Yankees (100 - 62) take on the Los Angeles Dodgers (98 - 64), formerly of Brooklyn, in their ninth World Series against one another. The Bronx Bombers have had the Dodgers number, winning six of the previous eight matchups. But that is old histo...
2024-01-2200 minFall Classic RewindYou Can Count on Sparky - 1977 ALCS - Yankees vs. RoyalsALCS - Royals vs. Yankees
For the second consecutive year, the Kansas City Royals (102 - 60) and the New York Yankees (100 - 62) will face off with the AL pennant on the line. Last year, the series went the distance, with one of the most iconic endings in playoff history, a Chris Chambliss walk off home run to send the Yanks to the World Series. This year, the series will once again go five games, with a dramatic finish in the final inning.
Since he was hired as full time manager after an interim stint in 1975, all...
2024-01-161h 31Fall Classic RewindThe Baker Did It - 1977 NLCS - Dodgers vs. Phillies1977 NLCS
Meeting up for the first of two consecutive NLCS battles in 1977 and 1978, the Philadelphia Phillies (101-61) and the Los Angeles Dodgers (98-64) face off with games one and two at Dodger Stadium, and the final three (if necessary) at Veterans Stadium in Philly.
The Phillies captured their second of three consecutive NL East titles behind the stewardship of Danny Ozark. The Fightin’s had the best lineup in the NL, and they were stacked at nearly every position. Michael Jack Schmidt was his typical outstanding self (38 HR 101 RBI .274/.393/.574 151 OPS+), but it wa...
2024-01-091h 14Fall Classic RewindKojak, the Minnesota Kid, and the Man - 2024 BBWAA HOF Ballot2024 BBWAA HOF Ballot
With the new year nearly upon us, it’s time to once again talk about the Hall of Fame, focusing on the candidates on the BBWAA ballot. There are many strong holdovers who either have a shot at election this year, like Todd Helton and Billy Wagner, or will make strides towards future enshrinement, like Andruw Jones and Carlos Beltrán. There are the suspected or confirmed PED users, like AROD, Manny Ramirez, Andy Pettite, and Gary Sheffield, who will all likely fall short of the 75% threshold. And then there’s the n...
2023-12-2959 minFall Classic RewindWalk-offs to the Hall of Fame2023 Hall of Fame: Contemporary Era Managers, Executives, and Umpires
As Baseball Winter Meetings get underway, the Contemporary Era committee for the Baseball Hall of Fame will have eight candidates to consider. On this year’s ballot are a selection of managers, umpires, and executives, who are listed below. On today’s episode, we discuss the candidates, their cases, and some of top moments from their careers.
Jim Leyland - Manager of Pirates, Marlins, Rockies, and Tigers. 1997 World Series, 2x AL pennant (’06, ’12) 3x Manager of the Year. 8x playoffs
Marlin...
2023-11-301h 09Fall Classic RewindThat One is History - 2023 World Series Rangers @ Diamondbacks2023 World Series Game 5
Rangers (90-72) @ Diamondbacks (84-78) TEX leads 3-1
The Texas Rangers stand just one win away from their first ever World Series Championship after taking games three and four in convincing fashion. To seal the deal, they turn to one of the best postseason pitchers of this era, Nathan Eovaldi. The Texas-born righty has been electric this postseason and looks to become the first pitcher to ever win 5 starts* in a single postseason, and to have his team go 6-0 in those starts. Corey Seager continues to...
2023-11-031h 10Fall Classic RewindTwo Out Magic - 2023 World Series - Rangers @ Diamondbacks2023 World Series Game 3 and 4 @ Chase Field
Rangers (90-72) @ Diamondbacks (84-78) Series Tied 1-1
We head to Phoenix with the series tied at a game apiece. The Texas Rangers have yet to drop a game on the road this postseason, and they will be sending Max Scherzer to the hill to start game 3. Mad Max has not been his dominant self due to a late season injury, but manager Bruce Bochy will likely only need a few innings from the righty with his top relievers rested and raring to go...
2023-11-0159 minFall Classic RewindAn Instant Classic - 2023 World Series Diamondbacks @ Rangers2023 World Series Games 1 and 2 @ Globe Life Field
Diamondbacks (84-78) @ Rangers (90-72)
A dozen teams entered the postseason, and now only two remain. The Fall Classic gets underway down in Arlington, Texas, with the Rangers back in the series for the first time since 2011 and the Diamondbacks returning for their second ever appearance. Just two years ago, both of these teams lost over 100 games, and just last year, Texas lost 94 and Arizona lost 88. These teams have taken different pathways to return to relevancy. the Rangers invested heavily...
2023-10-301h 12Fall Classic RewindSnakes Survive and Advance - 2023 NLCS Diamondbacks @ Phillies2023 NLCS - Games 6 and 7 @ Citizens Bank Park
Diamondbacks (84-78) @ Phillies (90-72) - PHI leads 3-2
The Snakes stayed alive by winning two out of three in Phoenix, but they will face an uphill battle heading back to Philadelphia. Rob Thomson’s Phillies are just a win away from a return to the World Series, and they have been absolutely dominant at home. Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper continue to mash in this championship series, but Trea Turner and Nick Castellanos have been quieted after electric performances against Atlanta. The bu...
2023-10-2759 minFall Classic RewindHome Field Disadvantage - 2023 ALCS Rangers @ Astros2023 ALCS - Games 6 and 7 @ Minute Maid Park
Rangers (90-72) @ Astros (90-72) - Houston leads 3-2
With a dramatic comeback victory in game five, the Houston Astros are just a win away from heading back to the World Series for the fifth time in the last seven years. With a game to give and home field advantage, surely Dusty Baker’s squad is ready to seal the deal? The problem: the ‘Stros are much better on the road than at home, and Rangers manager Bruce Bochy is no stranger to elim...
2023-10-261h 13Fall Classic RewindSnakes Alive - 2023 NLCS Phillies @ Diamondbacks2023 NLCS - Game 3 - 5 @ Chase Field
Phillies (90-72) @ Diamondbacks (84-78)
The battle for the NL Pennant heads out to the desert, with the Phillies ahead in the series two games to none after convincing victories in Philadelphia. Everything worked just as Rob Thomson planned: the big bats provided power, the defense was flawless, the aces dominated, and the bullpen was solid. But can they bring that show on the road? For Arizona manager Torey Lovullo, there was little to take solace in after the first two games of this...
2023-10-231h 05Fall Classic RewindRoad Warriors - 2023 ALCS Astros @ Rangers2023 ALCS - Games 3, 4, and 5 @ Globe Life Field
Astros (90-72) @ Rangers (90-72) - TEX leads 2-0
The Rangers went into Houston, dominated, and now they head back to Arlington up two games to none in this series. Montgomery and Eovaldi were outstanding, the bats came through in big moments, and the bullpen held on to shut the door. In all facets of the game they have outplayed their rival Astros, but don’t assume that will continue with the change in venue. Heading into this series, the Astros were 6-1 th...
2023-10-221h 30Fall Classic RewindCity of Brotherly Slug - 2023 NLCS Diamondbacks @ Phillies2023 NLDS - Games 1 and 2 @ Citizens Bank Park
Phillies (90-72) vs. Diamondbacks (84-78)
For the second straight year, the NLCS will contain two Wild Card teams, with the Phillies and DBacks taking each other on. Arizona has yet to drop a game heading into this series, having easily dispatched two division champions already. They’ll have their pitching lined up with Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly for the first two games, but they’ll have to contend with the raucous crowd at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, an unwelcome environment for any opposing player, not to mention a potent offense. The Phil...
2023-10-2253 minFall Classic RewindThe Battle for Texas - 2023 ALCS Rangers @ Astros2023 ALCS - Games 1 and 2
Astros (90-72) vs. Rangers(90-72)
Minute Maid Park - Houston, TX
Deep in the heart of Texas, in-state rivals will face off with a trip to the World Series on the line. This should be a legendary matchup, with future Hall-of-Fame managers Bruce Bochy and Dusty Baker taking each other on once again. These teams finished with identical records in the regular season, but the Astros maintain home field advantage since they took the season series 9 games to 4 (including 6 of 7 at Globe Life Field in Arlington.) The Rangers have yet to drop a game in these...
2023-10-181h 04Fall Classic RewindAtta Boy Harper - 2023 NLDS Phillies vs. Braves2023 NLDS
Phillies (90-72) vs. Braves (104-58)
Game 1 - ATL RHP Strider vs. PHI LHP Suárez @ Truist Park
Game 2 - ATL LHP Fried vs. PHI RHP Wheeler @ Truist Park
Game 3 - PHI RHP Nola vs. ATL RHP Elder @ Citizens Bank Park
Game 4 - PHI LHP Suárez vs. ATL RHP Strider @ Citizens Bank Park
In a rematch of last year’s NLDS, the Braves and Phillies square off once again with a trip to the NLCS on the line. Led by Brian Snitker, Atlanta captured its 6th straight NL East crown, running roughshod through the entire league. This Braves team is a...
2023-10-171h 26Fall Classic RewindDomination in the Desert - 2023 NLDS Diamondbacks vs. Dodgers2023 Division Series
NLDS Diamondbacks (84-78) vs. Dodgers (100-62)
Game 1 - ARI RHP Kelly vs. LAD LHP Kershaw @ Dodger Stadium
Game 2 - ARI RHP Gallen vs. LAD RHP Miller @ Dodger Stadium
Game 3 - LAD RHP Lynn vs. ARI RHP Pfaadt @ Chase Field
The Dodgers are back in the postseason for the 11th straight season, winning the NL West for the 10th time in that span. They’ve put together yet another 100+ win campaign for the 4th consecutive full season(they were on...
2023-10-161h 15Fall Classic RewindHouston’s Gonna be a Problem- 2023 ALDS Twins vs. AstrosALDS Twins (87-75) vs. Astros (90-72)
Game 1 - HOU RHP Verlander vs. MIN RHP Ober @ Minute Maid Park
Game 2 - HOU LHP Valdez vs. MIN RHP López @ Minute Maid Park
Game 3 - MIN RHP Gray vs. HOU RHP Javier @ Target Field
Game 4 - MIN RHP Ryan vs. HOU RHP Urquidy @ Target Field
The Twins finally advanced in a playoff series for the first time since 2002, breaking an 18 game losing streak in the playoffs. Their reward… a date with the defending World Series Champions, the Astros. Rocco Baldelli’s pitching staff was excellent against the Blue Jays, but it will be a t...
2023-10-141h 23Fall Classic RewindEpisode 57 - Ranger Danger - 2023 ALDS Rangers vs. OriolesALDS Rangers (90-72) vs. Orioles (101-61)
Game 1 - BAL RHP Bradish vs. TEX LHP Heaney @ OPACY
Game 2 - BAL RHP Rodriguez vs. TEX LHP Montgomery @ OPACY
Game 3 - TEX RHP Eovaldi vs. BAL RHP Kremer @ Globe Life Field
After quickly dispatching the 99 win Tampa Bay Rays in the Wild Card round, the Rangers head to Baltimore to face the upstart, 101 win Orioles. Just two years ago, both of these team lost over 100 games, and now they meet in the playoffs. The Birds are led by a dynamic duo of young stars, second-year catcher Adley Rutschman and presumptive AL ROY Gunnar He...
2023-10-131h 05Fall Classic RewindEpisode 56 - Snakes that Rake and Brothers in Arms - 2023 NL Wild Card Round2023 NL Wild Card Round
Diamondbacks (84 - 78) @ Brewers (92 - 70) - American Family Field Milwaukee, WI
The Brew Crew are back in the postseason for the fifth time in the last six years, capturing their third NL Central crown in that timespan. Under manager Craig Counsell’s stewardship, this Milwaukee ball club excels at preventing runs. With a three-headed monster at the top of their rotation, the Brewers can shut down even the most potent of lineups, not to mention the lights-out bullpen that lies in wait. Scoring has been an issue for this club, despite stellar campaigns from former MVP Christian Ye...
2023-10-091h 19Fall Classic RewindEpisode 55 - Ending a History of Heartbreak - 2023 AL Wild Card RoundOctober 2023 -
Blue Jays @ Twins - Target Field
The 2023 Postseason is underway, with the Wild Card series concluding earlier this week. Before the Division Series start, let's quickly recap the first round of the playoffs. The Blue Jays head to Minneapolis to take on the AL Central Champion Twins, who are looking to end an 18 game losing streak in the postseason dating back to 2004 (mostly at the hand of the Yankees.) Both teams boast solid starting pitching (Gausman, Berríos, Bassitt for Toronto and Lopéz, Gray, Ryan for Minnesota), lights out closers (Romano and Duran), and deep offensive lineups. If...
2023-10-061h 03Fall Classic RewindEpisode 53 - An Ode to Mr. Oriole - Remembering the Career of Brooks RobinsonBaltimore’s Hoover. Mr. Oriole. The Human Vacuum Cleaner. The greatest defensive third baseman to ever grace the diamond. Baseball lost a legend this week. Brooks Robinson was not only a Hall of Fame baseball player, he was a Hall of Fame human being. From Little Rock, Arkansas, Brooks Robinson exemplified the Oriole Way for 23 seasons as a ballplayer, and many more as a broadcaster and as a member of the Baltimore community. He amassed 2,848 hits, 268 HR, 1357 RBI, 18 All-Star appearances, the 1964 MVP, the 1970 WS MVP, and perhaps most impressively 16 consecutive Gold Gloves at third base (a record for position pl...
2023-09-2859 minFall Classic RewindEpisode 52 - Pops - 1979 World Series Game Seven - Pirates @ OriolesWednesday October 17th, 1979 @ Memorial Stadium in Baltimore, MD
It all comes down to this. Game Seven. Chuck Tanner’s Terrors have forced a winner-take-all battle against the Earl of Baltimore and his Birds. These Pirates, who call themselves the ‘Family’, have rallied from a 3-1 deficit, besting two of the Orioles’ aces, Mike Flanagan and Jim Palmer. Can they make it three in a row? Standing in their way will be one of the breakout stars of this postseason for Baltimore, 25 year old Scott McGregor (13 - 6 3.35 ERA 174 IP). The crafty lefty has been sensational in these...
2023-09-011h 59Fall Classic RewindEpisode 51 - The Candyman and Teke - 1979 World Series Game Six - Pirates @ OriolesTuesday October 16th, 1979 @ Memorial Stadium in Baltimore, MD
The Pirates were able to rally around their heartbroken manager and stave off elimination in game five behind huge performances from Tim Foli, Bill Madlock, Bert Blyleven, and unexpectedly Jim Rooker. The series now heads back to Baltimore, with the odds still against Chuck Tanner’s Terrors. To try and close out this series for the Orioles, manager Earl Weaver turns to one of his most dependable starters, Jim Palmer (10 - 6 3.30 ERA 155 IP). The tall, handsome right-hander, whom many would argue is one of, if not th...
2023-08-251h 07Fall Classic RewindEpisode 50 - We Are Family - 1979 World Series Game Five - Orioles @ PiratesSunday October 14th, 1979 @ Three Rivers Stadium Pittsburgh, PA
On the verge of elimination, the Pittsburgh Pirates have just received heartbreaking news; manager Chuck Tanner’s mother passed away. It is undoubtedly a blow to 'the Family’, but perhaps the grief may serve as a rallying cry. The Buccos will need to stay together if they want to do what just three teams have done in World Series history (as of 1979); come back from a 3 - 1 deficit. And do they have a tall task ahead of them.
Taking the mound for Earl Weaver’s Orio...
2023-08-181h 15Fall Classic RewindEpisode 49 - In a Pinch - 1979 World Series Game Four - Orioles @ PiratesSaturday October 13th, 1979 @ Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA
Not even twelve hours after Scott McGregor finished off a complete game victory following a rain delay, the Orioles and Pirates are back at it in a pivotal game four. Earl Weaver's squad has the advantage, and their bats came alive in game three. Big Jim Bibby (12 - 4 2.81 ERA 137 IP) takes the hill for Chuck Tanner’s Pirates, looking to replicate his strong postseason debut. For Baltimore, it will be young righty Dennis Martinez (15 - 16 3.66 ERA 292 IP), who led the AL in innings pitched this season. This game will come down to...
2023-08-111h 15Fall Classic RewindEpisode 48 - Platoon Advantage - 1979 World Series Game Three - Orioles @ PiratesFriday October 12th, 1979 @ Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA
The series is tied at one game apiece as we head to Pittsburgh for games three through five. Rain is in the forecast for tonight's game, but with the turf only a downpour will cause a delay (spoiler alert, there will be a downpour). Tonight's pitching matchup will consist of two lefties. Young hurler Scott McGregor (13 - 6 3.35 ERA 174 IP) takes the hill coming off one of the best performances of his career against the Angels in the ALCS. Former All-Star John Candelaria (14 - 9 3.22 ERA 207 IP...
2023-08-031h 10Fall Classic RewindEpisode 47 - Fighting the Elements - 1979 World Series Game 2 - Pirates @ OriolesThursday October 11th, 1979 @ Memorial Stadium in Baltimore, MD
The outfield is torn up, the warning track riddled with puddles, the infield is choppy, and the grass is wet. Suffice it to say, Memorial Stadium is a mess. But that won't stop the World Series. The Baltimore Orioles jumped out to an early lead in game one, but they just barely held off the Pirates late rally to secure a 5-4 victory. The Pittsburgh bullpen kept the O's bats quiet, while the offense chipped away at the lefty Flanagan. The 1979 AL Cy Young displayed impressive resolve, inducing a...
2023-07-291h 19Fall Classic RewindEpisode 46 - A Cold and Damp Night in Baltimore - 1979 World Series Game One - Pirates @ OriolesWednesday October 10th, 1979 @ Memorial Stadium in Baltimore, MD
After a rainout the previous night, the 1979 World Series is set to begin at Memorial Stadium in weather fit for football (40 degrees and wet). A rematch of the 1971 Fall Classic, Earl Weaver's Baltimore Orioles look to get the edge on Chuck Tanner's Pittsburgh Pirates. These are two evenly matched ballclubs, the champions of their respective leagues. They share a lot of similarities in roster construction, boasting star power at right field and first base (Murray and Singleton for BAL: Stargell and Parker for PIT), productive platoon...
2023-07-211h 13Fall Classic RewindEpisode 45 - The Dutchman - 1979 NLCS Game Three - Reds @ PiratesFriday Afternoon, October 5th, 1979 @ Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA
After two thrilling extra-inning victories in Cincinnati, the Pirates are headed home on the precipice of another World Series berth. The 'Family', as they are referred to by their loyal fans, have excelled in all facets of the game: great starting pitching (Candelaria and Bibby), tremendous defense (Foli, Madlock, and Ott), timely hitting (Stargell and Parker), and clutch bullpen heroics (Tekulve, Jackson, and unexpectedly Don Robinson!). Pittsburgh manager Chuck Tanner is confident those trends will continue, sending a veteran righty to the mound, Bert...
2023-07-141h 13Fall Classic RewindEpisode 44 - Big Jim Bibby - 1979 NLCS Game Two - Pirates @ RedsOctober 3, 1979 @ Riverfront Stadium in Cincinnati Ohio
The National League rivals are back at it again after the Pirates won in dramatic fashion in game one, thanks in large part to MVP Willie Stargell's 3-run homer in extra innings. This will be another game that will come down to the wire, and like game one, it will be a pitchers' duel. But unlike game one, this is a bit of an unexpected matchup, with neither starter being in their teams rotation for the majority of the season. For John McNamara's Reds, it will be 22 year old rookie righty Frank Pastore (6 - 7 4.25...
2023-07-081h 23Fall Classic RewindEpisode 43 - Scrap Iron - 1979 NLCS Game One - Pirates @ RedsOctober 2, 1979 @ Riverfront Stadium
For the fourth time this decade, the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Cincinnati Reds will face off for the National League Pennant. The Reds have had the advantage so far this decade, defeating the Buccos in the previous three series with a combined 9-2 record. Both of these teams have dominated their respective divisions throughout this decade (6th NL east crown for PIT, 5th NL West crown for CIN), but the teams look a bit different from their previous matchups. Yes, Willie Stargell and Dave Parker are still threats in the middle of the lineup...
2023-06-301h 22Fall Classic RewindEpisode 42 - Great Scott - 1979 ALCS Game Four - Orioles @ AngelsThe Angels staved off elimination in walk off fashion in game three, but they have their work cut out for them if they want to force a game five. The Orioles send their number four starter to the hill, but lefty Scott McGregor (13 - 6 3.35 ERA 174 IP) would be a number two on most staffs. The LA born workhorse doesn't have a reputation as a big-game pitcher, but this start would begin a string of postseason excellence. Opposing him for the Angels is righty Chris Knapp (5 - 5 5.51 ERA 98 IP), who struggled with injuries this season, but was 10 - 1 at Anaheim...
2023-06-241h 32Fall Classic RewindEpisode 41 - Tanana Daiquiri vs. El Presidente - 1979 ALCS Game Three - Orioles @ AngelsFor the first time in their relatively short history, the Angels are hosting a playoff game in Anaheim. The bad news, they are down 2 - 0 int he series against the juggernaut Baltimore Orioles. Facing elimination, they send workhorse lefty Frank Tanana (7 - 5 3.89 ERA 90 IP) to the mound, hoping he will recapture some of his pre-injury glory (averaged 16 - 12 2.86 ERA 259 IP per season over the previous 5 seasons). Opposing him for Earl Weaver's Orioles is workhorse righty Dennis Martinez (15 - 16 3.66 ERA 292 IP), who led the league in innings and complete games (like Tanana had a couple of years prior). The previous...
2023-06-171h 15Fall Classic RewindEpisode 40 - Steady Eddie - 1979 ALCS Game Two - Angels @ Orioles1979 ALCS Game Two
After a thrilling walk-off win in game one, the Orioles look to take a commanding 2-0 series lead against the Angels. Baltimore sends their Cy Young winner, lefty Mike Flanagan (23 - 9 3.08 ERA 265 IP), to the mound. He has been a workhorse all season, but has been known to lose it quickly if he really gets in trouble. Opposing him is California righty Dave Frost (16 - 10 3.57 ERA 239 IP), who is having a career year, unfortunately the only one of his relatively short career. This game will once again be close at the...
2023-06-021h 16Fall Classic RewindEpisode 39 - The Lowenstein Apathy Club - 1979 ALCS Game One - Angels @ Orioles1979 ALCS Game One - 10/3/79 - Memorial Stadium - Baltimore, Maryland
California Angels
For the first time in their 19 year history, the California Angels (88 - 74) are in the playoffs! The trade for former MVP and seven time batting champ Rod Carew has paid off immediately. The Angels have the league's top offense, lead by an MVP performance by Don Baylor (.296/.371/.530 36 HR 139 RBI 145 OPS+) and bolstered by bounce back All-Star seasons from 2B Bobby Grich (.294/.365/.537 30 HR 101 RBI 145 OPS+) and C Brian Downing (.326/.418/.482 12 HR 75 RBI 142 OPS+). Nolan Ryan, Dave Frost, and Frank Tanana hold down...
2023-05-271h 13Fall Classic RewindEpisode 38 - Campy - 1973 World Series Game Seven - Mets @ AthleticsThe two best words in baseball: Game Seven. The A's avoided elimination behind outstanding performances of stars Reggie Jackson and Catfish Hunter, besting fellow future Hall-of-Famer Tom Seaver in game six. For the third time in this series, we will see the matchup between lefties Ken Holtzman (21 - 13 2.97 297 IP) and Jon Matlack (14 - 16 3.20 242 IP). Matlack has been brilliant in the postseason so far, allowing zero earned runs in 23 innings pitched across three starts. Can he keep up his dominance, or will the A's bats have an answer for the budding star? Holtzman has been a workhorse all season for...
2023-04-061h 16Fall Classic RewindEpisode 37 - The Dawn of Mr. October - 1973 World Series Game Six - Mets @ AthleticsThe series returns to the Oakland Coliseum with the Mets just one win away from their second World Series in franchise history. With their backs against the wall, the A's turn to Jim 'Catfish' Hunter (21 - 4, 3.34 ERA, 256 IP) to stave off elimination. The Mets will look to the Franchise, Tom Seaver (19 - 10, 2.08 ERA, 290 IP), to cap off another terrific season. Unanimous 1973 MVP Reggie Jackson has struggled mightily in the playoffs so far (8 for 42, 2 RBI, 12 Ks in 10 games), and if Oakland wants a chance at a game seven, he will need to turn his series around. The middle of the...
2023-03-241h 07Fall Classic RewindEpisode 36 - Ya Gotta Believe! - 1973 World Series Game Five - Athletics @ MetsThe Mets and A's are all tied up at two games apiece, with one final game at Shea Stadium before the series heads back to Oakland. New York sends veteran lefty Jerry Koosman (14 - 15, 2.84 ERA 263 IP) to the mound, having yet to lose a postseason game in his career (5 GS, 3 - 0, 4.09 ERA 32.2 IP). Oakland manager Dick Williams counters with former Cy Young and MVP Vida Blue (20 - 9, 3.28 263 IP), who has yet to win a playoff game in his career (12 G, 5 GS, 0 - 3 5.73 33 IP). Neither manager had to turn to their respective relief aces, Tug McGraw and Rollie Fingers, in...
2023-03-171h 02Fall Classic RewindEpisode 35 - Jon Matlack's Gem - 1973 World Series Game Four - Athletics @ MetsWith Oakland leading New York in this series two games to one, both teams turn to their game one starters. Rising star Jon Matlack (14 - 16 3.20 242 IP) takes the hill for the Mets, having allowed just one earned run in his last four starts, though only sporting a 2-2 record across those games. For the A's it will be veteran workhorse Ken Holtzman (21 - 13 2.97 297 IP), who won game one of the series but has had an extraordinary workload placed upon him this season. If the series is not resolved by then, expect both of these pitchers to be available for...
2023-03-101h 04Fall Classic RewindEpisode 34 - The Franchise and the Catfish - 1973 World Series Game Three - Athletics @ MetsThe series moves to Shea Stadium for a marquee matchup between two future Hall-of-Famers. Tom 'Terrific' Seaver (19 - 10 2.08 290 IP) gets the ball for the Mets, looking to continue his excellent career to this point. Opposing him will be Jim 'Catfish' Hunter (21 - 5 3.34 256 IP), the country boy turned perennial 20 game winner, who is coming off of a series clinching shutout against Baltimore. Bert Campaneris and Joe Rudi, the top of Oakland's order, will attempt to spark the A's offense against a tough righty, while Wayne Garrett and Rusty Staub aim to provide some thump for New York. This series has...
2023-03-031h 20Fall Classic RewindEpisode 33 - Farewell to the "Say Hey" Kid - 1973 World Series - Mets @ AthleticsThe Oakland A's were able to hold on in game one, thanks in large part to a tremendous relief performance from Rollie Fingers. Offense was held to a minimum in that game, but that won't be the case here in game two, despite the matchup between two great lefties. 1971 Cy Young and MVP Vida Blue (20 - 9 3.28 263 IP) gets the ball for the A's. For the Mets it will be reliable lefty Jerry Koosman (14 - 15 2.84 263 IP), who has been excellent thus far in his postseason career. Although he is not in the starting lineup, Willie Mays will play a significant...
2023-02-241h 23Fall Classic RewindEpisode 32 - Roland Glen Fingers - 1973 World Series Game One - Mets @ AthleticsAfter two exciting, 5-game championship series, we are on to the 1973 World Series between the A's and the Mets. These teams took much different paths to get here, but both are on fire heading into the Fall Classic. The Mets won 20 of their final 28 games to end the season, and they upset the highly favored Big Red Machine in the NLCS. The A's cruised to the AL West title, but they had a tough matchup against the Baltimore Orioles, requiring a shutout from Catfish Hunter in the final game to advance. These playoffs have been a thrill so far...
2023-02-151h 21Fall Classic RewindEpisode 31 - The Catfish - 1973 ALCS - Orioles @ AthleticsAfter splitting the first two games of the series, the A's and O's fly west to Oakland to determine who will represent the American League in the 1973 World Series. In game three, workhorse lefties Mike Cuellar (18 - 13 3.27 267 IP) and Ken Holtzman (21 - 13 2.97 297 IP) face off in an epic pitchers' duel that goes into extra innings. In game four, Jim Palmer (22 - 9 2.40 296 IP) and Vida Blue (20 - 9 3.28 263 IP) have a rematch, but neither will factor in the decision. A tremendous late-inning comeback staves off elimination in this tightly contested ballgame. With the season on the line in a decisive game...
2023-02-081h 08Fall Classic RewindEpisode 30 - Captain Sal - 1973 ALCS - Athletics @ OriolesWe are on to the American League Championship Series between the defending champion Oakland A's (94 - 68) versus Earl Weaver's O's (97 - 65). These teams have been the juggernauts of their respective divisions, each boasting outstanding pitching staffs and strong offenses. Reggie Jackson of Oakland is playing at an MVP level, and he is supported by stars Sal Bando, Joe Rudi, and Bert Campaneris (don't sleep on Gene Tenace either.) Baltimore looks a bit different than their World Series teams, with Frank Robinson and Davey Johnson out the door in trades. Youngsters Bobby Grich and Al Bumbry have stepped up in...
2023-02-011h 15Fall Classic RewindEpisode 29 - HOF Voting Predictions - 2023 BBWAA BallotMy dad returns as cohost to discuss the 2023 HOF ballot. We go into our thoughts on the players up for election, who we'd vote for, and what we think will happen tomorrow. Will we nail our prediction like we did for Fred McGriff? Well, we'll have to wait until tomorrow to find. For now, tune in to hear the case for the likes of Scott Rolen, Todd Helton, Bill Wagner, and others.
Catch you next time,
P.C.O.
2023-01-231h 01Fall Classic RewindEpisode 28 - Le Grande Orange - 1973 NLCS - Reds @ Mets Games 3 - 5With the series tied at a game apiece, we now move to Shea Stadium in Queens for the rest of the NLCS. Despite winning only 82 games to the Reds' 99, the Mets will have a chance to host three games in this short series. And with the series even, that could turn out to be a huge advantage for this scrappy team. Pete Rose has been the spark so far for the Cincinnati, homering off of Tom Seaver late in Game 1. Future Hall of Fame catcher Johnny Bench won that game with a walk-off homer. Rusty Staub and Cleon Jones...
2023-01-211h 15Fall Classic RewindEpisode 27 - Getting Hot at the Right Time - 1973 NLCS - Mets @ RedsWe are back after a bit of a hiatus, covering the exciting 1973 postseason. First up is a National League matchup between the Cincinnati Reds (99 - 63) and the New York Mets (82 - 79). Although their respective records might not indicate it, both of these teams had to overcome 10+ game deficits to take their divisions, and neither of them had led their divisions heading into September. Talk about catching fire to end the season. The Big Red Machine captured its fourth consecutive NL West crown behind an MVP season from Pete Rose (.338/.401/.437 5 HR 64 RBI), as well as outstanding performances from Hall-of-Famers Joe...
2023-01-1454 minFall Classic RewindEpisode 26 - Barry, Rocket, and Crime Dog - Baseball Hall of Fame SpecialWith the Winter Meetings starting up this weekend, we will soon find out the fates of the Contemporary Era Committee ballot. I am joined by a special guest (my dad) to discuss the players on the ballot, who we would vote for, and what we expect to happen. All eight of these players have a case for the Hall of Fame, but the voters can choose up to only three. Will anyone make it, or will the committee throw a shutout?
Audio Clips from MLB Vault
As always, shout out to Baseball...
2022-12-031h 13Fall Classic RewindEpisode 25 - Bedlam at the Bank - 2022 Phillies Postseason - NLWC, NLDS, and NLCS2022 was an up and down season for the Philadelphia Phillies. They got off to a rough start, fired their manager, and then reigning MVP Bryce Harper went out with an injury. They could have wilted, but instead they rose up under new manager Rob Thomson, going 65 - 46 after taking over for Joe Girardi (22 - 29). Still, their improvement only guarantied them a Wild Card showdown with the NL Central Champion St. Louis Cardinals (93 - 69). The Phillies might not have met their regular season expectations, and they were certainly not without their flaws. They boasted a powerful lineup, with sluggers Kyle...
2022-11-071h 33Fall Classic RewindEpisode 24 - Slaying the Dragon - 2022 Postseason - NL Wild Card and Division Series (SD Padres)While the American League playoffs mostly played out as expected, nothing could be further from the truth on the National League side. Three teams won at least 100 games - the Dodgers, Braves, and Mets. None of them reached the NLCS. We'll get to the sixth-seeded Phillies magical run in the next episode, but tune in to today's to revisit the impressive run of the San Diego Padres, who took down two heavily favored opponents in the Mets and their in-state rival Dodgers. San Diego has been a team yet to meet the lofty expectations of their star power, with perennial...
2022-11-021h 04Fall Classic RewindEpisode 23 - Let's Get Wild - 2022 Postseason - AL Wild Card and Divisional RoundsIt's been quite a thrilling postseason so far, hasn't it? Over the next few episodes we'll be reacting to this wild and entertaining postseason, which has been filled with incredible game. Take a listen and relive these awesome moments from this year's playoffs, starting with the American League Wild Card and Divisional Series. Central Division Champions the Cleveland Guardians (92 - 70) take on the Tampa Bay Rays (86 - 76), with a chance to face the Yankees (99 - 63). The Seattle Mariners (90 - 72) have broken a 21-year playoff drought, and they match up with the Toronto Blue Jays (92 - 70). The winner of the...
2022-10-271h 16Fall Classic RewindEpisode 22 - Tug, Bowa, and Boone - 1980 World Series Game 6 - Royals @ PhilliesWith yet another late-inning, comeback win in Game 5, the Phillies return home to Veterans Stadium just one win away from their first ever World Series. Embattled manager Dallas Green couldn't ask for a better pitcher in Game 6: the best lefty to ever throw a baseball, Steve Carlton (24 - 9 2.34 ERA 304 IP). Slugger Mike Schmidt (game tying run) and ace reliever Tug McGraw (win and 3 scoreless innings of relief) played hero in the ninth inning, and the bottom of the order has consistently provided a spark with defensives whizzes SS Larry Bowa and C Bob Boone hitting like All-Stars.
...
2022-10-161h 26Fall Classic RewindEpisode 21 - The Cardiac Kids - 1980 World Series Game 5 - Phillies @ RoyalsWith the series all knotted up at two games apiece, a pivotal Game 5 matchup will likely determine who wins the 1980 World Series. Both the Phillies and the Royals have held serve at home to this point in the series, and neither wants to be on the brink of elimination when we head back to Philadelphia for Game 6. The starting pitching matchup: KC lefty ace Larry Gura (18 - 10 2.59 ERA 283 IP) versus Philly rookie righty Marty Bystrom (5 - 0 1.50 ERA 36 IP). Perhaps more pertinent to each manager are the statuses of their respective bullpen aces. Royals sidewinder Dan Quisenberry has pitched in...
2022-10-051h 25Fall Classic RewindEpisode 20 - Willie Mays Aikens - 1980 World Series Game Four - Phillies @ RoyalsThe Royals were able to prevail in extra innings against the Phillies in a back and forth game three, but now they have to try and do it again just about 12 hours later. This Saturday matinee matchup will be crucial in deciding who will control the series. Kansas City, with a chance to even the series at two games apiece, turn to their workhorse, righty Dennis Leonard (20 - 11 3.79 ERA 280 IP), who is looking to bounce back after a disappointing game one loss. Young Royals slugger Willie Aikens played hero in last night's walk-off victory, and he already has a...
2022-09-301h 18Fall Classic RewindEpisode 19 - Brett Puts His Problems Behind Him - 1980 World Series Game Three - Phillies @ RoyalsAfter two thrilling comebacks in games one and two, the 1980 series moves on to Kansas City with the Phillies maintaining home-field advantage. This is the first ever World Series game to be played in Kansas City, and thankfully the Royals will have superstar third baseman George Brett back in the lineup after he departed game two early with a hemorrhoid issue. Manager Jim Frey sends big righty Rich Gale (13 - 9 3.92 ERA 190 IP) to the hill, looking to avoid a dreaded 0 - 3 series deficit. The Phillies counter with veteran righty Dick Ruthven (17 - 10 3.55 ERA 223 IP), who has been excellent in this...
2022-09-271h 15Fall Classic RewindEpisode 18 - Lefty Lefty - 1980 World Series Game Two - Royals @ PhilliesAfter yet another comeback win in game one, the Phillies turn to their ace, Steve 'Lefty' Carlton (24 - 9 2.34 ERA in 304 IP), to maintain home-field advantage in this series. Carlton was in the midst of yet another outstanding, Cy Young winning season (his third so far of his illustrious career); however, his two previous postseason starts against the Astros were no cakewalk. He had to work hard and without his best stuff. The Royals would send a lefty ace of their own to the mound, Larry Gura (18 - 10 2.95 ERA in 283 IP). Gura was excellent in his start against the Yankees...
2022-09-161h 10Fall Classic RewindEpisode 17 - Shake and Bake - 1980 World Series Game 1 - Royals @ PhilliesThe battle for the 1980 World Series Championship is set to go with game one at Veterans Stadium. Two evenly matched teams have finally won their respective pennants (fourth time's the charm!). Both teams are led by superstar third-basemen, George Brett for KC and Mike Schmidt for PHI (players who were taken back to back in the 1971 draft!). The Phillies rotation and bullpen were nearly spent in their dog-fight against Houston in the NLCS, so they send unproven rookie Bob Walk (11 - 7 4.57 ERA in 151 IP) to the mound. The Royals swept the Yankees in three games and have their horses...
2022-09-081h 03Fall Classic RewindEpisode 16 - Smooth - 1980 American League Championship Series - Royals vs. YankeesBefore we get to the 1980 World Series, let's check in on the American League. For the fourth time in five seasons, the AL West Champion Kansas City Royals (97 - 65) face off against the AL East Champion New York Yankees (103 - 59) for the AL pennant. The Bronx Bombers came away victorious in the three previous matchups, but this year KC was looking to change the narrative. These teams come from cities that couldn't be more different, but a closer look at the make-up of their respective rosters shows similarities. Led by MVP-caliber stars: Reggie "Mr. October" Jackson and George Brett...
2022-08-311h 22Fall Classic RewindEpisode 15 - Trillo - 1980 NLCS Game 5 - Phillies @ AstrosThe thrilling NLCS between the Astros and Phillies concludes with yet another wild one. A fourth straight extra-inning game?! Sounds preposterous, but only fitting for this dogfight of a series. Houston sends their horse, Nolan Ryan (11 - 10 3.35 ERA in 233 IP), to the mound with a trip to the World Series on the line. Philadelphia curiously counters with 22 year old rookie Marty Bystrom (5 - 0 1.50 ERA in 36 IP), who has yet to take a loss this year but is making just his sixth career start in the Majors. Will this choice pay off for manager Dallas Green? Can Houston rebound after...
2022-08-221h 11Fall Classic RewindEpisode 14 - Charlie Hustle - 1980 NLCS Game 4 - Phillies @ AstrosAfter three thrilling games to start this series, including two extra-inning wins for the Astros, Houston is just one win away from their first World Series appearance. Despite the lead in the series, the Astros lost their star center fielder Cesar Cedeno to a broken ankle in game 3. They will once again be facing ace lefty Steve Carlton for Philly. Houston counters with Vern Ruhle (12 - 4 2.37 ERA in 159 IP). Phillies manager Dallas Green also shakes things up, starting Lonnie Smith over Greg Luzinski in left. It's do or die for the Phillies. Can they force a winner-take-all game 5, or...
2022-08-1658 minFall Classic RewindEpisode 13 - The Bull - 1980 NLCS Part One - Phillies vs. AstrosAfter an incredible regular season finish that saw each division come down to the wire(including a Game 163 tiebreak between the Astros and Dodgers), we start the battle for the National League Pennant at Veteran's Stadium in Philadelphia. Each game boasts a strong pitching matchup, with multi-time Cy Young Award winner Steve Carlton (24 - 9 2.34 ERA in 304 IP!!!) facing veteran righty Ken Forsch (12 - 13 3.20 ERA in 222 IP) going in Game 1, Dick Ruthven (17 - 10 3.55 ERA in 223 IP) up against living legend Nolan Ryan (11 - 10 3.35 ERA in 233 IP) in Game 2, and Larry Christenson (5 - 1 4.03 ERA in 73 IP) battling knuckleballer Joe Niekro (20 - 12 3.55...
2022-08-1555 minFall Classic RewindEpisode 12 - The Big Red Machine - 1975 World Series Game 7 - Reds @ Red SoxThe two best words in baseball - GAME SEVEN! It all comes down to this, win-or-go-home. After a dramatic, walk-off victoryto stave off elimination, the Red Sox look to finish the season on a high note behind lefty Bill Lee. The Reds, whose bullpen is quite depleted, turn to their ace, lefty Don Gullett. All bets are off for a this one. Listen in for the thrilling finish of this incredible series.
Audio clips from Youtube.
As always, shout out to baseball reference and SABR for statistics, box scores, background information, and much, much more.
2022-07-191h 31Fall Classic RewindEpisode 11 - The Greatest Game Ever Played - 1975 World Series Game 6 - Reds @ Red SoxWe return to Fenway Park with the Red Sox facing elimination in this Game 6 matchup. Luis Tiant (18-14 4.02 ERA in 260 IP; 3-0 with 3 CG in the playoffs) gets the nod once again for Boston, thanks to three consecutive days of rain. Gary Nolan starts for the Reds (15-9 3.16 ERA in 210 IP; ND in Game 3 start), though Cincinnati manager Sparky Anderson will have the entire bullpen at his disposal as they seek to end the season tonight. It's been a hard-fought series up until this point, and both teams were looking to continue that trend. This game has an iconic...
2022-07-111h 36
Fall Classic RewindEpisode 10 - The Mayor of Riverfront Stadium - 1975 World Series Game 5 - Red Sox @ RedsAfter an exhilarating and tense game 4, the 1975 series is all tied up at two games a piece as we head into the final game at Riverfront Stadium. The Reds turn to their ace, lefty Don Gullett (15-4 2.42 ERA in 159 IP), as they seek to take the advantage in the series. The Red Sox counter somewhat surprisingly with righty Reggie Cleveland (13-9 4.43 ERA in 170 IP) over crafty lefty Bill Lee, who pitched brilliantly in their Game 2 loss. Offense has picked up for both teams on the artificial turf, though the Red's Cuban slugger Tony Perez has struggled so far, going...
2022-07-041h 10Fall Classic RewindEpisode 9 - Luis Luis - 1975 World Series Game 4 - Red Sox @ RedsAfter a thrilling walk-off win in Game 3, the Reds are looking to take a commanding 3-1 series lead and continue their home dominance at Riverfront Stadium. They will start Fred Norman (12-4 3.73 ERA in 188 IP), journeyman lefty reliever turned reliable starter. The Red Sox turn to the big man, Luis Tiant (18-14 4.02 ERA in 260 IP), with their season on the line. Will Tiant dominate like in Game 1, or will a second shot at the Cuban righty prove fortuitous for the Big Red Machine?
Audio Clips from Youtube (apologies for the occasional 'popping' sound. It's from the source...
2022-06-271h 08Fall Classic RewindEpisode 8 - Welcome to Cincy - 1975 World Series Game 3 - Red Sox @ RedsAfter a ninth inning comeback win at Fenway for the Reds, we move on to Riverfront Stadium in Cincinnati with series all tied up. Each team starts a righty coming off a bounce-back year, Gary Nolan for the Reds and Rick Wise for the Red Sox. Apart from a late 7th inning outburst for the Red Sox in Game 1, the bats have been relatively quiet for both teams. Would that continue, or would the two top offenses in baseball come alive in Game 3?
Audio clips from Youtube
As always, shout out to Baseball Reference and...
2022-06-201h 10Fall Classic RewindEpisode 7 - Spaceman - 1975 World Series Game 2 - Reds @ Red SoxAnother cold and damp day at Fenway Park. After a dominating game one win, the Sox turn to another legendary character to try and befuddle the Big Red Machine - Bill 'Spaceman' Lee. A crafty lefty with three straight 17 game win seasons, Lee looks to keep the bats of Rose, Morgan, Bench, and Perez at bay with grit and deception. Cincinnati counters with Jack Billingham, the older, innings-eating workhorse who had averaged 18 wins the past three seasons. Can the Reds even up the series, or will the Red Sox head to Riverfront Stadium with a 2-0 lead?
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2022-06-151h 07Fall Classic RewindEpisode 6 - El Tiante - 1975 World Series Game 1 - Reds @ Red SoxOn to the next World Series matchup, we cover the 1975 series between the Cincinnati Reds and Boston Red Sox. Two elite offenses filled with MVPs and future Hall-of-Famers. Tasked with slowing down the Big Red Machine, can the Cuban legend, Luis Tiant, come up with a gem? Will the Reds' pitching staff be able to handle the raucous crowd at Fenway Park? Tune in for game one of this incredible series.
Audio clips from Youtube
As always, shout out to Baseball Reference and SABR for statistics, box scores, background information, and much, much more.
2022-06-071h 10Fall Classic RewindEpisode 5 - The Miracle Mets - 1969 World Series Game 5 Orioles @ MetsThe energy at Shea Stadium is palpable. After taking a commanding 3-1 series lead behind outstanding pitching and defense, the Mets are looking to clinch the series and avoid going back to Baltimore for a potential game 6. Standing in their way are Dave McNally and Frank Robinson of the Orioles. Can the postseason ace keep his team's season alive? Will the Mets continue to contain the firepower of the American League juggernaut? Listen in to this exciting and decisive game 5.
Audio Clips from MLB Vault - 1969 World Series, Game 5: Orioles @ Mets
As always, shout out...
2022-05-301h 14Fall Classic RewindEpisode 4 - Tom Terrific - 1969 World Series Game 4 Orioles @ MetsAfter a subpar performance in game one, 1969 NL Cy Young Award winner Tom Seaver redeems himself with an absolute gem of a start. This tight game ends up going to extra innings, thanks in part to an iconic, game-saving grab by Ron Swoboda in the ninth. Listen in for a wild finish to this classic pitchers' duel.
Audio Clips from John Quinn - 1969 World Series Game 4 Orioles at Mets https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b6WsUXf0TRM
As always, shout out to Baseball Reference and SABR for statistics, background information, and...
2022-05-231h 11Fall Classic RewindEpisode 3 - The Tommie Agee Game - 1969 World Series Game 3 - Orioles @ MetsThe series moves to New York, and the raucous crowd at Shea Stadium is ready for the first ever World Series game in Flushing Meadows. Tommie Agee puts together one of the best two-way World Series performances you will see, with a leadoff home run and two incredible, run-saving catches in the outfield. Along with pitching heroics from a rookie and from a future baseball legend (who would make the only World Series appearance of his illustrious Hall-of-Fame career today), Agee leads the Mets to a surprising series lead over the heavily favored Baltimore Orioles, who had a legend...
2022-05-161h 01Fall Classic RewindEpisode 2 - A Classic Pitchers' Duel - 1969 World Series Game 2 - Mets @ OriolesWhat a gem of a game we have here! Dave McNally vs. Jerry Koosman. Two young southpaws at their pitching peak. This game is a defensive clinic as well, with highlight play after highlight play. Who will take control of the series before we head to Queens for three games at Shea Stadium? Tune in to find out.
Audio Clips from Sports Revisited - 1969 World Series Game 2 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kkrgeRIHHB0
As always, shout out to Baseball Reference and SABR for the wealth of statistics, stories, and other...
2022-05-091h 04Fall Classic RewindEpisode 1 - 1969 World Series Game 1 - Mets @ OriolesIn today's episode we briefly recap the 1969 season and cover the matchup between two Cy Young award winners. We also dive into the background of a couple of Orioles' players, whose heroics are highlighted in this game. Tune in to find out which team takes advantage of the series in game one: the upstart Mets or the dominant Orioles.
Game audio clips from Sports Revisited - 1969 World Series Game 1 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=elbNfb4JU6g
Catch you next time,
P.C.O
2022-05-031h 11Fall Classic RewindFall Classic Rewind - Welcome to the Show - TrailerHello and welcome to Fall Classic Rewind, a new show covering classic World Series matchups. Leading off will be the 1969 World Series between the Mets and Orioles. This teaser does not get into the games just yet, but stay tuned for the stories and highlights from this memorable series - momentum changing plays, future Hall-of-Famers, unsung heroes, and much more.
Catch you next time,
P.C.O
Audio clip from Sports Revisited - 1969 World Series Game 1 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=elbNfb4JU6g
2022-04-2316 min