Shows
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Bob DernierWe look back to the 1980s this week with our guest Bob Dernier. Bob started in the Phillies organization (1980-1983), then finished his career in Philadelphia (1988-1989). His career took off when he was dealt to the Chicago Cubs (1984-1987) where he was their leadoff man/center fielder. He led off the bottom of the 1st inning of Game 1 in the NL Playoffs (1984) with a home run against the San Diego Padres, to propel the Cubs to victory. As a Phillies fan, Bob was one of my favorite players. I loved his speed, hustle and defensive ability in center fi...
2024-09-261h 08
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Barry FooteWe have Barry Foote as our guest on the podcast this week. Barry was signed out of high school in North Carolina by the Montreal Expos. He had the privilege of playing for Gene Mauch while being the Expos starting catcher from 1974-1976. Barry was traded to the Phillies and was part of their NLCS run in 1977-1978. He then became a starter with the Cubs and later played with the Yankees during their post-season run in 1981. Barry discusses his trade to Philadelphia which took him from a starter in Montreal to a back-up-catcher who didn't play much. His ca...
2024-09-1951 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: George CulverWe look back to the late 1960s to the early 1970s this week with former MLB pitcher George Culver. George pitched in the Big Leagues from 1966-1974 with many teams and some great pitching staffs. He was part of the great staff in Cleveland in 1967, Cincinnati in 1968/1969 and the Astros in the early 1970s. George had a no-hitter in 1968 against the Phillies when he was with Cincinnati. Take a look Back When There Was Baseball this week with George Culver.
2024-09-1249 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Dickie ThonOur guest this week was headed for the MLB Hall of Fame before a tragic injury curtailed his career. Listen as Dickie Thon talks about coming into the Majors with the California Angels before being traded to the Houston Astros. He thrived in Houston before he was hit in the head with a pitch by Mike Torrez on April 8, 1984. Dickie played the rest of his career with impaired vision, which is unreal seeing that he was still very competitive for many years after the injury. Dickie was one of Rex's favorite players to watch and he did not disappoint i...
2024-09-0543 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Steve FoucaultOur guest this week is former MLB relief pitcher Steve Foucault. Steve is a very interesting subject in the fact that he became a relief pitcher in the Major Leagues but hadn't pitched since his Little League days. Steve also never started a game in his minor or major league career. He played in the Big Leagues from 1973-1978 with the Texas Rangers, Detroit Tigers and Kansas City Royals. Steve has a solid 35-36 career record with a very good 3.21 ERA. We go Back When There Was Baseball this week into the 1970s to review the career of Steve Foucault
2024-08-2953 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Bill KruegerFormer MLB pitcher Bill Krueger joins us this week on the podcast. Bill pitched from 1983-1995 with various ball clubs. This tall left-hander has a nice career record of 68-66 with a 4.35 ERA. Bill has a unique story as to how he started his MLB career after playing both basketball and baseball for the University of Portland. Bill went into broadcasting after his MLB career and covers the Seattle Mariners in the studio. Enjoy this look Back When There Was Baseball at the career of Bill Krueger.
2024-08-2259 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Randy LerchWe are pleased to have Randy Lerch as our guest this week on the podcast. It is an honor for Rex as he was in the stands on September 30, 1978, when Randy started against the Pittsburgh Pirates in Three Rivers Stadium. Randy not only picked up the win on the mound, but he hit two home runs to lead the Phillies to clinching the N.L. East. He talks about that game along with his trials and tribulations in a career which spanned from 1975-1986. Randy also wrote a book entitled God in the Bullpen which not only reviews his MLB...
2024-08-1553 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Leon RobertsFormer MLB outfielder Leon Roberts joins us this week. Leon played in the Big Leagues from 1974-1984. He played in two domed stadiums as his home field during his career (The Astrodome in Houston and The Kingdome in Seattle). Leon talks about hitting in those stadiums and how he overcame an eye injury to have a career batting average of .267. He finished 6th in batting in 1978 with the Mariners, hitting .301 with 22 Home Runs and 92 RBIs. Join us Back When There Was Baseball and enjoy Leon Roberts talk about his career.
2024-08-0856 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: May 17, 1979: Philles 23, Cubs 221979 marks the 45th anniversary of the great game between the Cubs and Phillies. The date was May 17, 1979, the location was Wrigley Field in Chicago, and the wind was blowing out at 17-18 miles/hour. Both starting pitchers (Phillies - Randy Lerch, Cubs - Dennis Lamp) only last 1/3 of an inning and the score was 7-6 after the 1st inning was completed. The teams combined for 50 hits of which 11 were home runs. Our guests are Rawly Eastwick (the game's winning pitcher) and Chris Wheeler (broadcast team) to represent the Phillies, along with Barry Foote (catcher) and Mike Vail (RF) to...
2024-08-0151 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Rick Wise No-Hitter (June 23, 1971)June 23, 2021 marked the 50th anniversary of one of the greatest achievements in not only Philadelphia Phillies, but also MLB history. Rick Wise pitched a no-hitter on that Wednesday evening in Cincinnati while also hitting 2 home runs. Later in that same season, he recorded 32 consecutive outs in a game vs. the Chicago Cubs (September 18, 1971). We were fortunate to have Rick talk about that no-hitter along with his career, which spanned 18 years in the Big Leagues.
2024-07-2557 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Ken BerryKen Berry joins us on the podcast this week. Ken played in the Majors from 1962-1975 and was considered one of the best defensive center fielders of that era. He won two Gold Glove Awards (1970 and 1972) and was an All-Star in 1967. You have to wonder why he wasn't awarded more Gold Gloves when you look at his statistics. Ken played his entire career in the American League with the Chicago White Sox, California Angels, Milwaukee Brewers and Cleveland Indians. Enjoy this trip Back When There Was Baseball and listen to Ken Berry share stories about his career and baseball in...
2024-07-181h 05
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Lou KlimchockLou Klimchock is our guest on the podcast this week. Lou played in the Majors from 1958-1970 with the Kansas City A's, Milwaukee Braves, Washington Senators, New York Mets and Cleveland Indians. He was a good utility infielder during most of his career and finally got a chance to play regularly with Cleveland in 1969. Lou talks about getting labeled back in the day and how it affected his career. He played with some of the greats of the game, especially during his stint with Milwaukee (Warren Spahn, Henry Aaron and Eddie Matthews to name a few). Enjoy this trip Ba...
2024-07-1151 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Jim RookerWe are going back into the mid-1960s through the 1970s this week with our guest. You should remember Jim Rooker as a Pittsburgh Pirate, but he actually started in the Detroit Tigers organization as an outfielder, then converted to a pitcher. Jim shares some great stories during his career with the Tigers, Kansas City Royals and Pittsburgh Pirates. He was pivotal in the 1979 World Series by pitching five crucial innings in his only start in Game 5. With the Pirates down 3 games to 1, Jim stepped up and sparked the Pirates who would go on to win game 5 by a score...
2024-07-041h 07
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Ken SingletonOur guest this week is one of the best switch-hitting power hitters of his time period. Ken Singleton joins us this week to talk about his illustrious career. Ken's MLB career spans from 1967-1984 with 3 teams: New York Mets, Montreal Expos and Baltimore Orioles. Ken hit 246 HRs and had over 1,000 RBIs (1,065). He also hit .282 during his career with 4 seasons over the .300 mark. Ken Singleton is one of those players that impacted the time period he played in and is mentioned among the best players of his era. We go Back When There Was Baseball this week with Ken Singleton.
2024-06-271h 06
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Glenn AbbottWe are joined this week by former Major League right-handed pitcher Glenn Abbott. Glenn pitched in the Big Leagues from 1973-1984. He came up in the Oakland A's organization when they won 5 straight AL West titles (1971-1975) and 3 World Series (1972-1974). He was selected by the Seattle Mariners in the 1976 expansion draft and played with Seattle from 1977-1983, where he played for the Mariners longer than any other player from their original 1977 opening day roster. We hope you enjoy this look Back When There Was Baseball with the "Swingin' A's" and the Seattle Mariners playing in the Kingdome.
2024-06-201h 02
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Mark WileyOur guest this week was in the game of baseball for five decades. Mark Wiley talks with us, not only about his playing career, but also his coaching and administrative career. Mark was not highly touted out of high school but had a great college career at Cal Poly Pomona and was drafted in 1970. He threw a ton of innings as a young minor leaguer and developed some arm problems, which hindered his career. When Mark retired as a player in 1980, he went right into coaching and did a great job building the Cleveland Indians staff that was very succ...
2024-06-1351 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Rich NyeRich Nye joins us this week on the podcast. Rich was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the 14th round of the 1966 draft out of Cal-Berkeley and it didn't take him long to make it up to the parent club. He talks about his time with the Cubs and manager Leo Durocher. The Cubs were contenders when he pitched for them in the late 1960s. Rich left baseball and became a veterinarian specializing in exotic and avian medicine. Join us this week as we go Back When There Was Baseball with our guest Rich Nye.
2024-06-0648 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Tom SatrianoTom Satriano joins us this week on the podcast. Tom was an original Los Angeles Angel in 1961, signed out of USC's baseball program. He played in the infield as well as catcher throughout his MLB career (1961-1970). The Angels were an expansion team, but quickly played .500 or better baseball and were competitive throughout the 1960s. Tom talks about his career, along with some of his teammates and coaches when we go Back When There Was Baseball.
2024-05-3039 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Dick StigmanFormer MLB pitcher Dick Stigman joins us this week. Dick was a left-handed pitcher from 1954-1967. He is most remembered for his stint with the Cleveland Indians and Minnesota Twins. Dick had a career record of 46-54 with a 4.03 ERA. But the stat that jumps out is that he started 119 games in his career and completed 30 of those games. Dick also was part of the Minnesota Twins 1965 World Series team. It is with pleasure that we provide Dick Stigman Back When There Was Baseball.
2024-05-2343 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Clay DalrympleClay Dalrymple joins us this week. Clay played in the Majors from 1960-1971 with the Philadelphia Phillies and Baltimore Orioles. Clay was part of the Phillies collapse in 1964 and also part of 3 World Series teams with the Orioles from 1969-1971. He reflects on these years and also playing for managers Gene Mauch and Earl Weaver. Clay threw out almost 50% of the base runners that attempted to steal against him and was an outstanding defensive catcher in his days. Enjoy this trip Back When There Was Baseball with Clay Dalrymple.
2024-05-1532 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Dave PaganDave Pagan joins us this week on the show and he is our first player who grew up in Canada. Dave grew up in the middle part of Saskatchewan and shares his story of how he overcame the weather and lack of baseball equipment. He played in the Majors from 1973-1977 with the New York Yankees, Baltimore Orioles, Seattle Mariners and Pittsburgh Pirates before arm trouble ended his career. Join us as we travel Back When There Was Baseball with our first Canadian player.
2024-05-0933 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Tommy John Surgery & the Evolution of PitchingWe have a special podcast this week to discuss Tommy John surgery and how pitching has evolved from our time period Back When There Was Baseball (mid-1960s through the mid-1980s) to today. We are joined by Rich Hand, former MLB pitcher from the 1970s, and one of the best, if not the best, pitching coaches in MLB history, Leo Mazzone. Rich and Leo provide their perspective on these topics. This is a fascinating podcast and should provide you some insight into the current state of pitching compared to the years we cover Back When There Was Baseball.
2024-05-021h 17
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Bill NorthWe revisit the success of the "Swingin' A's" this week. Our guest is Bill North who arrived in Oakland in 1973 and played there through the 1978 season. Bill was part of two World Series championships (1973-1974) and appeared in the 1975 ALCS along with the 1978 NLCS and World Series with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He led the league in stolen bases twice (1974 and 1976) while playing a stellar center field. Bill was successful in both leagues and can be summed up as a WINNER. Join us Back When There Was Baseball with a look back into the 1970s with one of the best...
2024-04-2549 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Earl StephensonEarl Stephenson joins us on the podcast this week. Earl pitched in the Majors/Minors from 1967-1979. He had to endure military service which disrupted his progress early on. Earl was a left-handed pitcher that, whatever the reason, never seemed to get a chance. He had a really good season with the Milwaukee Brewers in 1972 but was abruptly traded to Philadelphia after the season. He had some really good years at AAA after that but was never called up. Earl recalls his career in baseball and provides some insight which answers some of the questions about his career. Enjoy this tri...
2024-04-1839 min
The Optimal Alpha Podcast: Fitness, Fat Loss and MENtorship for the Modern ManPast Client Interview: Rex Hudson Reveals His NBD JourneyNeed help crafting your fitness plan? Click the link below to see exactly how we can guide you:https://andynayloronlinecoaching.com/…………………When embarking on a journey towards physical transformation, the choice of a fitness coach or program is pivotal. Are you aiming for a fleeting change or a profound, long-lasting impact on your lifestyle?Depending on your goal, you will naturally gravitate towards a fitness program that offers you what you think you need. However, it's crucial to recognize that not all fitness progra...
2024-04-1725 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Brant AlyeaWe are airing this podcast this week in honor of Brant Alyea, who passed away on February 4, 2024. Brant Alyea joins us this week on the podcast. He had an illustrious career at Hofstra University on the hardwood playing for Butch van Breda Kolff and also on the baseball diamond. Brant signed a free agent contract with the Cincinnati Reds in 1962, then the Washington Senators chose him in the first-year minor league draft in November of the same year. Brant talks about the influence Coach Ted Williams had on him as well as his two years in Minnesota be...
2024-04-1143 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Bob GalassoBob Galasso joins us on the podcast this week. Bob had a short, but very interesting career in the Majors. He came out of Connellsville High School (PA) and his high school did not have a baseball team. After being founded in American Legion ball, he ended up converting to a pitcher shortly after joining the Orioles organization in the Minors. Bob had to work his way up through the Orioles organization with their great staff at the Major League level (Jim Palmer, Mike Cuellar, Dave McNally, Pat Dobson, Ross Grimsley) and also in the Minors (Mike Flanagan, Scott M...
2024-04-041h 12
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Bob BeallBob Beall is our guest this week. Bob played in the Phillies, Braves and Pirates organizations during his career which lasted from 1970-1981. Bob was drafted in the 28th round of the 1970 June Draft by the Philadelphia Philles out of Oregon State University. Bob actually played some 3rd base as a left-handed fielder at Oregon State, which was very unusual. He worked his way to the Major Leagues and had some significant playing time during the 1978 season with Atlanta. Bob was a switch-hitting line drive hitter during his career and played mostly at 1st base. We hope you enjoy this tr...
2024-03-2847 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Bob RandallBob Randall is our guest this week. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers out of Kansas State University in 1969. Bob ended up stuck behind those great Dodger infielders in his stint with L.A. (1969-1975) and could not break into the Big Leagues. He got his break when he was traded to the Minnesota Twins in December of 1975. Bob started at 2nd Base with the Twins in 1976 and had a nice year appearing in 153 games. He then platooned with Rob Wilfong for the next few years, before retiring from the game. Bob then got into collegiate coaching heading...
2024-03-2149 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Tom GrieveTom Grieve joins us this week. Tom was a 1st round draft pick in the 1966 MLB draft by the Washington Senators. In fact, Tom and his son Ben were the 1st father-son team to both be drafted in the 1st round. He made it up to the Big Leagues in 1970, then in 1972 to stay. Tom was a streaky hitter and finally got a chance to play regularly when Frank Lucchesi became the Texas Rangers manager in 1975-1976. Tom talks about his career as a player, then after baseball, he discusses his career as the Rangers' GM, then their color analys...
2024-03-141h 10
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Tom BurgmeierOur guest this week is Tom Burgmeier. You should remember Tom as a left-handed relief pitcher mainly in the 1970s, but do you really know how good he was? Tom pitched in the Majors from 1968-1984, had a record of 79-55 with an ERA of 3.23. The last six years of his career his ERA was under 3.00. That is incredible considering he was over 35 each of those years. The 1978 one-game playoff between the Red Sox and Yankees was the only postseason game his teams played in. To accomplish all he did, on mostly sub-par teams, is astounding. We hope you en...
2024-03-071h 04
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Dave DraveckyOur guest this week is remembered for his great comeback from cancer, then the ending of his career in Montreal. But did you remember how effective he was as a left-handed pitcher in the 1980s? Dave Dravecky joins us this week to talk about his playing days at Youngstown State University through his last MLB game with the San Francisco Giants. He broke into the Majors with the San Diego Padres in 1982 and his career ended in 1989 with the Giants. Dave had an ERA of 3.13 with a career record of 64-57. These are outstanding stats and may have led him to...
2024-02-2957 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Fred HoldsworthOur guest this week is Fred Holdsworth. Fred pitched in the Major Leagues from 1972-1980. He was drafted by the Detroit Tigers in the 1970 MLB Draft and was looked upon to add to the Tiger pitching staff. He got called up to the Majors rather quickly and couldn't break into the Tigers rotation. He then gets traded to the Baltimore Orioles, who had a better pitching staff. Fred talks about his career, being called up and down from the Minors to the Majors and playing for managers Billy Martin, Ralph Houk, Earl Weaver and Dick Williams. Take a trip wi...
2024-02-2256 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Steve GrilliSteve Grilli joins us this week. Steve came out of Gannon University and was signed as a free agent by the Detroit Tigers in 1970. He worked his way through the Minors and made his Major League debut in 1975. Steve stayed up with the Tigers through the 1977 season and was part of that magical season of 1976 where he was part of the pitching staff that included Mark "The Bird" Fidrych. He is the father of Jason Grilli who also pitched in the Majors for 18 seasons. We hope you enjoy this trip into the mid-1970s Back When There Was Baseball.
2024-02-151h 01
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Gary LucasOur guest this week is left-handed pitcher Gary Lucas. Don't be fooled by Gary's record of 29-44, as Gary had a career ERA of 3.01 which was phenomenal considering he not only started, but also relieved during his career. He played in the Majors from 1980-1987 for the San Diego Padres, Montreal Expos and California Angels. Gary talks about his career and how tough the National League East was when he was with Montreal. He also discusses that infamous Game 5 of the AL Championship Series in 1986 between the California Angels and Boston Red Sox. Sit back and enjoy a look Back W...
2024-02-081h 00
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Glen RosenbaumOur guest this week was considered by many who played for the Chicago White Sox as the best batting practice pitcher of all time. Glen Rosenbaum signed with the White Sox in 1955, but never made it to the Big Leagues despite a career record of 95-45. Listen to Glen, or "Rosie" as his teammates referred to him, talk about the reason Manager Al Lopez never brought him up to the Majors. Rosie also shares many stories of his days in baseball, which lasted from 1955-1965 as a player, then until 1998 as a coach/traveling secretary. Enjoy this look Back When T...
2024-02-0145 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Tom BrunoTom Bruno joins us this week. Tom was a pitcher from 1972-1979. He was childhood friends with Randy Poffo (the infamous Macho Man Randy Savage) and they played a lot of baseball together. Tom was in the Kansas City Royals organization and was selected in the expansion draft in November 1976 by the Toronto Blue Jays. After a disappointing season in Toronto in 1977, Claude Osteen helped resurrect his career in St. Louis in 1978, which was his best year in the Majors. Enjoy this trip Back When There Was Baseball with our guest Tom Bruno.
2024-01-2533 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Bob ColuccioBob Coluccio is our guest this week. Bob played in the Majors from 1973-1978 with the Milwaukee Brewers, Chicago White Sox and St. Louis Cardinals. He is an interesting subject as he fell 35 games short of an MLB pension according to the pre-1980 rules. You will enjoy the stories Bob shares and we review the fact that he is another player that fell through the cracks. Take a trip Back When There Was Baseball and listen to Bob share his story and career through MLB.
2024-01-1847 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Chris SpeierOur guest this week holds a special place in host Rex Naylor's heart. Rex was presented a Wilson A2150 baseball glove at 10 years of age by his stepfather, with Chris Speier's autograph on the glove. This inspired Rex to follow our guest this week, Chris Speier's career, and a fabulous career it was. Chris got to the Majors in a hurry with the San Francisco Giants and played in the 1971 NLCS against the Pittsburgh Pirates. He was traded in April of 1977 to the Montreal Expos and was a member of the growth of the Expos during the late-1970s throu...
2024-01-1154 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Billy SampleOur guest this week is Billy Sample. Billy came out of James Madison University and was drafted in the 10th round of the free agent draft in 1976 by the Texas Rangers. He was a career .270 hitter for the Texas Rangers, New York Yankees and Atlanta Braves. Billy is a mystery, since he was a very productive hitter and left the game in his early 30s which was rather young. He hit in the .280s his last two years. Billy was an outstanding line-drive hitter, who could run the bases well. Listen in as Billy discusses his career and talks ab...
2024-01-0453 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Jack DiLauroWho has the New York Mets' 3rd best ERA with over 50 innings pitched with the club? His name is Jack DiLauro and he joins us this week. Jack was a part of the 1969 "Miracle Mets" pitching staff. He did not pitch in the postseason that year, however his 2.40 ERA helped the Mets get there. Jack only played 2 years in the Majors and was part of an unfortunate situation of being in the Detroit Tiger organization behind their great pitching staff even though he had a great record in their farm system. He was never invited to spring training with the Tig...
2023-12-2849 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Frank CarpinFrank Carpin joins us this week. Frank played baseball at Notre Dame and was signed into the New York Yankees organization in 1959. The Yankees were known for their great farm system, but at this time (early 1960s) they stripped their coaches out and moved them up to the Big Leagues. This story is how bad the Yankees farm system became which led to their mediocre performance during the CBS years (1965-1972). Frank was part of that minor league system but overcame it with a solid year with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1965. Frank talks about working through the Yankees system and f...
2023-12-2851 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Bobby BonnerThis is one of the most inspirational stories you will ever hear. The subject of our podcast today is Bobby Bonner. He was a great prospect for the Orioles, drafted in the 3rd round of the 1976 MLB draft behind Cal Ripken, to replace Mark Belanger at shortstop. Unfortunately, due to an unbelievable set of circumstances and setbacks, Bobby never truly received an opportunity in the Big Leagues. However, God had other plans for Bobby's life, and he followed the Lord's calling. This is a fitting story for the Christmas season, and we hope these words inspire you as much a...
2023-12-2157 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Bump WillsBump Wills joins us on the podcast this week. Bump is the son of Maury Wills and had a successful career along with his father. Bump signed his MLB contract with the Texas Rangers after playing for Bobby Winkles at Arizona State. After only 2 years in the Minor Leagues, Bump made his MLB debut in 1977 and finished 3rd in the running for Rookie of the Year. He played with the Rangers from 1977-1981, then moved over to the National League for a year with the Chicago Cubs. Bump has some great stories to share about his time in the Majors...
2023-12-1453 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Gary RyersonThere are two MLB pitchers that were inflicted with polio that we know of. We had Rich Hand on this podcast a few weeks ago and now we have the second, Gary Ryerson. Gary talks about pitching with polio and doing so effectively. He was very close to enrolling at Arizona State, but accepted an offer from the San Francisco Giants. Gary pitched in the Majors and Minors from 1966 through 1976. Listen in as he recounts his career and some very interesting stories Back When There Was Baseball.
2023-12-0743 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: 1975 World Series with Pat DarcyWhat a better way to celebrate baseball than to revisit the 1975 World Series between the Boston Red Sox and the Cincinnati Reds. With us is Pat Darcy. Pat was on the mound when Carlton Fisk hit his infamous home run in Game 6 of this series. Pat shares his memories not only of that game, but of the culmination of the Reds first World Series victory under manager Sparky Anderson. He also discusses what changed the course of direction for the Reds in the regular season that allowed them to win 108 games and finally win it all. This is a g...
2023-11-3052 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Jake O'DonnellWho is the only person to officiate All-Star games in both MLB and the NBA? We have him as our guest this week and his name is Jake O'Donnell. Jake is more noted for his outstanding NBA officiating career (1967-1995), but we are talking with Jake about his MLB umpiring career which spanned from 1967-1971. Jake was the second-base umpire in that momentous 1971 All-Star game held at Tiger Stadium in Detroit. He discusses Reggie Jackson's monstrous home run along with being on the field with so many future Hall-of-Famers. Jake also was elected to umpire the 1971 ALCS between the B...
2023-11-2354 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Hector CruzHector Cruz joins us this week. Hector signed his MLB contract at age 17 in 1970. He came from Arroyo, Puerto Rico along with brothers Jose and Tommy. His career spanned from 1970-1982 along with playing in Japan in 1983. Hector talks about his journey to the U.S. with very little understanding of English. He worked his way to the Big Leagues first appearing in 1973 with the St. Louis Cardinals. Join us Back When There Was Baseball with Hector Cruz as he discusses his career.
2023-11-1645 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Rich Hand Pitcher Rich Hand is our guest this week. Rich is one of only two pitchers in MLB history that played with polio (Gary Ryerson being the other). You will enjoy Rich's stories about playing for the Alaska Goldpanners with Bob Boone, Dave Kingman, Dan Pastorini (yes, the Houston Oilers quarterback) among many others. Rich had some solid seasons with Cleveland and Texas in the early 1970s. He was one of the few pitchers that seemed to get along with Ted Williams. You will enjoy these stories and many others when we take a look Back When There Was Baseball with...
2023-11-0952 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Ted PowerThe time machine travels back to the 1980s to take a look at our guest this week, Ted Power. Ted had an interesting path to the Major Leagues, through amateur baseball and Kansas State University. Ted ended up stuck in the mix with a lot of great young pitchers in the Los Angeles Dodgers organization, but on October 15, 1982 he got his break, being traded to the Cincinnati Reds. His best years were with Cincinnati in 1984 (11 saves) and 1985 (27 saves). He is one of the few pitchers who was able to start out his career as a relief pitcher, then convert to a...
2023-11-0246 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Ken RudolphThis week we take a look at another catcher from the late 1960s to the late 1970s. Ken Rudolph is our guest. Ken played in the Majors from 1969-1977 with the Cubs, Giants, Cardinals and Orioles. In this era of baseball, the backup catcher was vitally important. Ken talks about what it was like to play sparingly, keep in shape not only defensively, but also at the plate with the bat. He also talks about some of the managers he played for Back When There Was Baseball, which includes Leo Durocher.
2023-10-3149 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Paul HartzellWe have a Pennsylvania player today, but not one who played for the Philadelphia Phillies or Pittsburgh Pirates. Paul Hartzell played high school baseball for Central Columbia High School near Bloomsburg, PA, then went on to Lehigh University. Paul made it to the Big Leagues for the 1976 season with the California Angels. He was part of that pitching staff which included Nolan Ryan and Frank Tanana. Paul was a starter and reliever with the Angels from 1976-1978. He then went to the Minnesota Twins for the 1979 season. Paul developed arm problems, so his career was short, but the stories are f...
2023-10-261h 03
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Balor MooreBalor Moore is our guest this week. Balor started his career on fire with an ERA under 1.00 in his first season in A ball in 1969. He got his first opportunity in the Big Leagues with the Montreal Expos in 1970 and had a really good season in 1972. Unfortunately, Balor gave up Mike Schmidt's (1972) and Mike Tyson's (1973) first home runs. Balor had a thrill of a lifetime when he threw a perfect game in November of 1973 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Balor is a fascinating story and he is fantastic at recalling his career. We take a step Back When There Was...
2023-10-1857 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Buzz CapraBuzz Capra joins us this week on the podcast. Buzz was drafted by the New York Mets in 1969 while leading Illinois State to a Division II National Championship. His career lasted from 1969-1977 and he had a part in some great seasons. Buzz was a member of the New York Mets roster that made it to the 1973 World Series, losing to the Oakland A's in 7 games. He was sold to the Atlanta Braves in March of 1974 and the Braves cashed in as Buzz led MLB with a 2.28 ERA. He started 27 games, finishing 11 of them while compiling a 16-8 record. Arm pro...
2023-10-1241 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Len MatuszekIf you are a long-time Phillies fan, you will remember our guest this week. Len Matuszek joins us to discuss his career. Rex remembered Len's contributions in the last month of the 1983 season which culminated in a World Series appearance for the Phils. Len also had a solid 1984 season before being shipped to Toronto. He was a rare 2-sport athlete in college (Toledo) and came to the Phillies with high promise, but never was given much of an opportunity. Len discusses his career and how he ended up with the Dodger organization involved in the 1985 NLCS against the St. Lou...
2023-10-0456 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Steve BusbyOur guest this week was headed for a stellar career as a pitcher until a torn rotator cuff cost him his career. Do you remember Steve Busby, Kansas City Royals pitcher 1972-1980? Steve talks about his career from high school into his stint at USC during their great days in the late 1960s/early 1970s. He had three very good years in the Majors from 1973-1975, which included two no-hitters. Let's go Back When There Was Baseball this week and let Steve Busby talk about his MLB career and how those Kansas City Royals teams became A.L. West perenni...
2023-09-2850 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Tom GriffinIt is rare that a player who played in every year during the decade of the 1970s is not recognized by either Rex or Steve, but our guest this week fits into that category. Tom Griffin joins us this week as we delve into his "mysterious" career. When we looked at Tom's stats, we were left scratching our heads as to how a player with this much impact on the game went unrecognized by us. Tom had a career record of 77-94 with an ERA of 4.07. He played for the Houston Astros, San Diego Padres, California Angels, San Francisco Giants...
2023-09-2849 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Andy McGaffiganOur guest this week is pitcher Andy McGaffigan. Andy played in the Majors from 1981 through 1991. He has a career record of 38-33 with a respectable ERA of 3.38. Listen in as Andy discusses playing in the Division II World Series, how tough it was to play baseball in Montreal, along with what it was like being a relief pitcher and spot-starter Back When There Was Baseball.
2023-09-2149 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Ken TatumToday's guest is Ken Tatum, relief pitcher 1969-1974. Ken played college baseball at Mississippi State and signed with the California Angels after college. The Angels brought him up to the big leagues in 1969 and he responded with a great season. He appeared in 45 games, saving 22 of them with an ERA of 1.36. Ken also finished 4th in the 1969 AL Rookie of the Year balloting. He was having another good season in 1970, when he hit Paul Blair with a pitch that broke Blair's nose and sidelined him for several games. Listen to Ken discuss this incident along with the rest of h...
2023-09-1445 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Phil RoofPhil Roof joins us on the podcast this week. Phil started his baseball career in 1959 signed by the Milwaukee Braves and lasted through the 1977 season. He played for the Milwaukee Braves, Los Angeles and California Angels, Cleveland Indians, Kansas City and Oakland A's, Milwaukee Brewers, Minnesota Twins, Chicago White Sox and Toronto Blue Jays. Phil caught one of the best pitching staffs in the game's history with Cleveland (Sam McDowell, Luis Tiant and Sonny Siebert to name a few). He also caught Warren Spahn in spring training, along with Catfish Hunter, Bert Blyleven, Jim Kaat and Jim Perry. Phil is ful...
2023-09-0755 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Gary NeibauerThis week's guest is Gary Neibauer. Gary pitched in the Majors from 1969-1973 for both the Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies. Listen in as Gary discusses his career and playing with greats such as Hank Aaron, Orlando Cepeda, Phil Niekro and Steve Carlton. Gary also discusses that he was touted to be the Phillies second starter in 1972 before he suffered an injury that essentially ended his career. Neibauer is also one of the group of pre-1980 players who had less than four years of credited service and therefore not eligible for a pension.
2023-08-3151 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Fred BeeneOur guest this week is Fred Beene. Fred was in the Baltimore Oriole organization during their great years in the 1960s to early 1970s. He had trouble breaking into the Big Leagues until he was traded to the NY Yankees. He had two great years with the Yankees in 1972 and 1973, during the CBS years. If you don't remember Fred, you should, especially if you are a Yankee fan. This man was a very good relief pitcher when given the chance. Listen as Fred talks about baseball in the 1960s-1970s, Back When There Was Baseball.
2023-08-2549 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Jim PriceJim Price passed away on August 7, 2023. I conducted this interview with Jim in April of 2021. We are re-airing this as a tribute to his life and career. Jim Price is our guest this week. He is currently the color analyst for Detroit Tigers radio broadcasts and has been announcing for almost 30 years. Jim was a member of the 1968 World Series Champion Detroit Tigers. He came out of Hershey (PA) High School to play in the Pittsburgh Pirates minor league system. Jim was acquired by the Tigers in April of 1967 and made his MLB debut that year...
2023-08-1743 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Bob LaceyBob Lacey joins me on the podcast this week. Bob was drafted by the Oakland A's in 1972 at the start of the A's dynasty. Bob made it up to the parent club roster in 1977 after the team was dismantled. Bob had some really good years on the mound for the A's from 1977-1980 when they were rebuilding. You have to look at not only a player/pitcher's statistics, but on what type team they played on. When you look at Bob Lacey, he had some productive seasons with a below-par ball club. We go Back When There Was Baseball this week...
2023-08-1049 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Dick Bosman Pitcher Dick Bosman is our guest this week on the podcast. Dick had a very good MLB career on mostly poor teams. Dick was the Washington Senators opening day pitcher for four consecutive seasons and that says something! He threw a no-hitter for the Cleveland Indians on July 19, 1974 against the powerful Oakland A's. He then finished his career with the three-time World Champion A's. Listen as Dick recalls some great stories Back When There Was Baseball.
2023-08-0147 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Bruce Kimm This week, we are going back to the 45th anniversary of "Birdmania". For those who don't remember, this was in 1976 with Mark "The Bird" Fidrych setting Tiger Stadium in a frenzy with his pitching performance and antics on the mound. Fidrych passed away in 2009, but we have his personal catcher, Bruce Kimm, to talk about that magical season of 1976 for the Detroit Tigers and "The Bird". Kimm caught Fidrych at Evansville (AAA) in 1975 and followed that up in 1976 as his personal catcher on his starts for the Detroit Tigers. Bruce Kimm has gone unnoticed in years past, but we...
2023-07-2744 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Danny BoonePitcher Danny Boone was the lightest pitcher to pitch in MLB history. He is listed in the stats at 5'8" tall and 150 lbs. Dan will relate that he was closer to 130 lbs. Dan is a descendant of THE Daniel Boone. His first name is Danny, even though MLB, along with other statistical websites, list it as Daniel. Danny started out in the California Angels farm system in 1977. He got his chance in 1981 after he was released by the Angels and signed by the San Diego Padres. Dan had a good season in 1981, but he was always told he was too small...
2023-07-2049 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Frank DiPinoOur guest this week is Frank DiPino. Frank pitched with several teams and was very effective, mostly through the 1980s. He started out with Milwaukee and unfortunately was traded before appearing in the 1982 World Series. He then played with Houston and was traded in the middle of the 1986 season before he was able to appear in the NLCS against the N.Y. Mets. Frank played effectively in the league from 1981-1993 with an ERA under 4.00 and a record close to .500. Frank has some great stories, so sit back and listen Back When There Was Baseball.
2023-07-1154 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Ron StoneOur guest this week is Ron Stone, former Philadelphia Phillies outfielder from 1969-1972. Ron started his career in the Baltimore Orioles organization, then was chosen by the Kansas City A's in the Rule 5 MLB draft in 1966. He played 26 games for the A's and had good numbers, but the A's sent him back to the Orioles in July of that same year. He was blessed to be traded to the Phillies in 1969 where he would get a chance to play. Ron played in the last Phillies game at Connie Mack Stadium (1970), then opened up Veterans Stadium the next year on the n...
2023-07-1143 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Bobby ValentineWe go back in the time machine this week to the late-1960s through the mid-1970s with our guest Bobby Valentine. You should recognize that name, but maybe as an MLB manager. We focus on his playing career this week. Bobby was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1968 as the 5th overall pick. He was sent to rookie ball in Ogden, Utah, along with teammates Bill Buckner, Tom Paciorek, and Steve Garvey, to name a few, and Tommy Lasorda managed that team. Bobby got to the Big Leagues quickly, but his career was marred by injuries. He could p...
2023-06-2939 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Al Clark We are privileged to have long-time American League umpire Al Clark as our guest this week. Al umpired from 1976-2001 and was a member of the umpiring crew in the 1978 AL East one-game playoff in Fenway Park between the Red Sox and Yankees (the famous Bucky Dent HR game). Al also umpired in the 1983 and 1989 World Series. You will not want to miss his discussion of that 1978 playoff game and the "Earthquake" World Series. Al Clark is the only umpire in MLB history of Jewish descent and was the only umpire to wear his name on his cap from 1976...
2023-06-1951 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Bill DawleyThere were only three players in MLB history that started the year in the Minor Leagues and made the MLB All-Star game. Our guest his week, Bill Dawley, was one of them. Bill started in the Cincinnati Reds farm system in 1976 and finally got his shot in the Big Leagues when traded to the Houston Astros. He had a good 3-year stint with Houston from 1983-1985 compiling a 22-13 record with 21 saves all out of the bullpen. Bill shares some great stories when we travel back to the 1980s on Back When There Was Baseball.
2023-06-1651 min
Back When There Was BaseballBACK WHEN THERE WAS BASEBALL: ZACK MINASIANZack Minasian joins us this week to talk about his book Lasorda University: A Recollection of My Summer of '68 with Tommy Lasorda and the Ogden Dodgers in our combined Sports Authors Showcase and Back When There Was Baseball podcasts. Zack shares some great stories about that 1968 Ogden Dodgers team (Pioneer League), which had some great players: Bill Buckner, Bobby Valentine, Steve Garvey, Tom Paciorek, and Sandy Vance, to name a few. Tommy Lasorda was the manager and led this group of young ball players to a championship which was a prequel for things to come for both the pla...
2023-06-1345 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Tom CarrollOur guest this week is Tom Carroll, who played most of his career in the Cincinnati Reds system. Tom was a 6th-round draft choice in 1970 out of North Allegheny High School in Wexford, PA. He worked his way up the ladder as a pitcher and finally got his call up to the majors in 1974 at the age of 21. When Don Gullett fractured his thumb in 1975, Tom was called up and was a major part of the Reds' 1975 World Series-winning team. Unfortunately for Tom, injuries curtailed his career. Join us Back When There Was Baseball as Tom talks about those great y...
2023-06-1347 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Jack BrohamerWe are discussing utility infielders on today's podcast. When you think of utility infielders in the 1970s era, Jack Brohamer comes to mind. Utility infielders are a special breed. They do not play every day. They are asked to pinch hit, pinch run and also enter a game in the latter innings for defensive purposes. These players come into a game cold and are asked to perform at the highest of levels. Jack played in the Majors from 1972-1980 with the Cleveland Indians, Chicago White Sox, and Boston Red Sox. He factored into the Red Sox 1978 season, where they ti...
2023-06-1352 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Juan BerenguerOur guest this week is Juan Berenguer, better known as Senor Smoke, El Gasolino, the Panama Express, or Pancho Villa. Juan was the first Panamanian baseball player to win a World Series, and he won two (Detroit 1984 and Minnesota 1987). He started with the New York Mets in the late 1970s but became an outstanding relief pitcher for the Twins and Braves toward the latter part of his career. We hope you enjoy this talk with Juan as he relives that 1984 Detroit Tigers championship, along with the 1987 Twins championship and the Atlanta Braves run in the early 1990s.
2023-06-131h 00
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Pat ZachryOur guest this week in one of the 1976 National League Rookie of the Year winners. That is correct, there were two that year and Pat Zachry was one of them. Pat pitched for the Cincinnati Reds when they won the 1976 World Series. He pitched in the Majors for 10 years, with a long stint in the New York Mets organization and ended up his career with the L.A. Dodgers and Philadelphia Phillies. Pat also pitched in the Senior League (Florida) and threw a game or two with a broken leg. Listen in as Pat recalls his career and the ga...
2023-05-2551 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Nancy FinleyWe are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the 1973 Oakland A's ball club this week with our guest Nancy Finley. The A's won the World Series 3 consecutive years (1972-1974), and Nancy was a part of these seasons. Nancy is the daughter of GM Carl Finley and the niece of owner Charlie Finley. She shares stories about those years, along with the rebuilding of the A's in the early 1980s. Nancy also wrote a book entitled Finley Ball, which focuses on the years starting with Kansas City, the move to Oakland, and culminating with the three world championships.
2023-05-2543 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Mike StenhouseWe travel Back When There Was Baseball this week to the early to mid-1980s with our guest Mike Stenhouse. Mike was one of the best hitters in Ivy League history coming out of Harvard before signing with the Montreal Expos in 1980. Mike was able to hit everywhere he played, but he struggled when he got to the Majors. We speak with Mike about having to break into the lineup playing behind Andre Dawson, Warren Cromartie, Tim Raines, Terry Francona, and Al Oliver, to name a few. He talks about not getting a chance to play on a regular basis, w...
2023-05-2555 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Mike EpsteinOur guest this week is Mike Epstein. Mike played in the Majors from 1966-1974 with various clubs and was part of the 1972 Oakland A’s world championship team. Believe it or not, this is the 50th anniversary of that team. He went to Cal-Berkeley on a football scholarship but ended up switching to baseball. Mike was nicknamed Superjew and played for quite a host of managers, which include Hank Bauer, Gil Hodges, Ted Williams, and Dick Williams. Mike has some great stories, so enjoy this trip Back When There Was Baseball.
2023-05-251h 00
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Leron LeeLeron Lee joins us this week as we take a look Back When There Was Baseball. Leron played in the Majors from 1969-1976 with the Cardinals, Padres, Indians, and Dodgers. He then traveled to Japan and had a stellar career from 1977-1987. Leron was the leading hitter in Japanese history until it was broken in early 2018 (he held that record for 31 years with a .320 batting average). His best year in the Majors was in 1972 when he hit .300 with the San Diego Padres (a team that lost 95 games). Leron takes us Back When There Was Baseball and talks about his MLB car...
2023-05-251h 17
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Leo MazzoneWe are blessed to have one of the greatest pitching coaches of all time with us this week. Leo Mazzone joins us to talk about his career as a pitching coach and how he was able to keep the Atlanta Braves in contention each year with his stable pitchers. In the 1990s, it was Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, and John Smoltz, along with a 4th pitcher throughout the decade. He talks about not only the top three but also how he was able to consistently have a 4th starter. Leo also talks about what he learned from Johnny Sain Back...
2023-05-2544 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Ken FrailingKen Frailing is our guest this week. Ken pitched from 1966-1978 in the Minor Leagues and the Majors. Ken was very promising out of high school as he had a 13-0 record his senior season with an unbelievable 0.17 ERA. He played for the White Sox and Cubs organizations in his tenure and shares some fascinating stories about his career in Chi-Town. Ken was also a very good hitting pitcher, and unfortunately, an injury curtailed his career. We hope you enjoy this interview with Ken Frailing, Back When There Was Baseball.
2023-05-2553 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: John MorlanJohn Morlan is our guest this week. He played in the Pittsburgh Pirate organization from 1971-1977, with stints in the Major Leagues in 1973 and 1974. John is our first guest that was drafted 4 times before signing with the Pirates out of Ohio University. John participated in the 1974 season, which included the Dock Ellis incident, where Dock attempted to hit every Cincinnati batter on May 1. The Pirates also won the National League East but lost to the L.A. Dodgers in the NL Championship Series. Enjoy this trip Back When There Was Baseball with John Morlan.
2023-05-2541 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Joe SambitoWe are privileged to speak with pitcher Joe Sambito this week. Joe took part in two of the best League Championship series in history (1980 NLCS Phillies/Astros and 1986 ALCS Angels/Red Sox). He became a left-handed short relief specialist for the Astros and overcame arm trouble to work his way back and help the Boston Red Sox get to the World Series in 1986. Sit back and listen to Joe talk about working his way to the big leagues and how he adapted into the short relief specialist role he succeeded in during the late 1970s through the early 1980s.
2023-05-2556 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Jim LyttleJim Lyttle joins us on the podcast this week. Jim played in the Majors from 1969-1976. He then had a successful career in Japan from 1977-1983. Jim played with the Yankees during the CBS years (1969-1971), White Sox (1972), Expos (1973-1976), and Dodgers (1976). Jim discusses his career, what it was like fighting for playing time, and also playing for four teams, then playing in Japan. He was a solid outfielder during his career and played with many great players. Join us as we journey Back to When There Was Baseball with Jim Lyttle.
2023-05-2553 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Jim LefebvreOur guest this week is the 1965 National League Rookie of the Year. His name is Jim Lefebvre, and he played with the Los Angeles Dodgers from 1965-1972, then continued his career in Japan for four more years. Jim also managed the Mariners, Cubs, and Brewers, as well as the Chinese National Team. He has some great insight into his playing and managing days both in the States and the Far East and the comparisons between the game when he played it compared with today.
2023-05-251h 03
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Jerry CrawfordBack When There Was Baseball: Jerry Crawford Our guest this week is former National League umpire Jerry Crawford. Jerry comes from a family of officials. We hope you enjoy Jerry Crawford's Perspective Back When There Was Baseball.
2023-05-2555 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Don MoneyDon Money joins us on the podcast this week. Don played in the Majors from 1968-1983. He started out in the Pittsburgh Pirate organization but got his break when he was traded to the Phillies. He was a shortstop in the organization but later moved to 3rd Base to make room for Larry Bowa. Don was traded at the end of the 1972 season to the Milwaukee Brewers, where he finished his career. Don was able to play all of the infield positions along with DH. He was part of that great Brewers team in 1982 that lost to the Cardinals in the...
2023-05-2556 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Dave PhillipsDo you remember the Disco Demolition Night in 1979? If so, the crew chief of that event is our guest this week. His name is Dave Phillips, and he was an umpire in the American League from 1971-2002. Dave recalls that event in Comiskey Park, along with his ejection of Gaylord Perry for throwing an illegal pitch and other events in a long umpiring career. Sit back and enjoy Dave talk about the stories from Back When There Was Baseball.
2023-05-251h 01
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Charlie LeibrandtThis week on Back When There Was Baseball, Rex and Steve take a look back at a "control/finesse" pitcher, which you don't see very often in today's game. His name is Charlie Leibrandt and he pitched in the majors from 1979 through 1993 with the Cincinnati Reds, Kansas City Royals, Atlanta Braves and Texas Rangers. He appeared in 5 games (starting 4) of the 1985 ALCS and World Series, throwing 31 2/3 innings. He also pitched in the 1991 and 1992 postseason. Listen and relive those great baseball years from the late 1970s through the early 1990s.
2023-05-2547 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Eddie LeonEddie Leon is our guest this week. He played in the Major Leagues from 1968-1975 with the Cleveland Indians, Chicago White Sox, and New York Yankees. His longest stint was in Cleveland, where he teamed up with Jack Heidemann as one of the best double-play combinations that few people knew about, as there were very few fans in attendance in Cleveland Municipal Stadium in those days. Eddie played his college ball at the University of Arizona before the Indians drafted him. He shared time at 2nd base and shortstop during his career and learned to turn the double play well...
2023-04-0646 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Duke SimsWho was the last player to hit a home run in the original Yankee Stadium (1973) before the massive remodel? His name is Duke Sims, and he is our guest this week. Duke also had the privilege of catching one of the greatest pitching staffs in the history of the game, the 1968 Cleveland Indian staff, which included "Sudden" Sam McDowell, Luis Tiant, Sonny Siebert, Stan Williams, and Steve Hargan. Duke was also the catcher in Game 2 of the 1972 ALCS when Bert Campaneris threw his bat at Detroit Tiger pitcher Larrin LaGrow after being hit by a pitch. Duke shares some gr...
2023-04-0647 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Dave Ford Dave Ford joins us this week. Dave was a 1st round draft pick in 1975 by the Baltimore Orioles. He was one of the many hot prospects and also dominant pitchers that were a part of the Oriole organization at that time. Listen as Dave talks about the amazing pitching staff of the Orioles during the years he was in their organization (1975-1983) and what it was like to play for Earl Weaver.
2023-04-0648 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Darrel ChaneyWe travel back into the 1970s with our guest this week. Darrel Chaney played in the Majors from 1969-1979. He started out his athletic career as a Parade All-American quarterback in 1965. Darrel turned down scholarship offers to Notre Dame and Michigan State to pursue his baseball career. He made his name as a utility infielder, but as all utility players will tell you, they intended to be starters, and Darrel was no exception. But when you look at the Cincinnati Reds lineup during the years he was with the club (1969-1975), you must have been an outstanding player even to make...
2023-04-061h 00
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Bill MeltonWho was the American League home run leader in 1971? If you do not know the answer, maybe "It is soo hot in Chicago that the third baseman is Melton" will jog your memory. Bill Melton is our guest this week. Bill talks about his career and his many teammates, including the late Dick Allen. He also shares his feelings toward Harry Caray, who turned the fans against him. Bill Melton was a very good third baseman, mostly with the White Sox, and we are fortunate to have him share his story. Sit back and enjoy this interview, Back When Th...
2023-04-061h 00
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Bill HallerAmerican League Umpire, Bill Haller, passed away on August 20, 2022. We are re-airing this podcast conducted in 2020 as a tribute to Bill. Bill umpired in the American League for 21 years (1961, 1963-1982) and is considered one of the best umpires in MLB history. You can still see the iconic Earl Weaver "incident" on YouTube where Bill was mic'd for an upcoming documentary. We were very blessed to share an interview with Bill as he discussed the game of baseball as it was when he umpired, compared to the game today. He shared many stories during his career that are priceless. Bill was a...
2023-04-0659 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Bart Zeller Bart Zeller joins us this week. He was with the St. Louis Cardinals organization his entire career. Bart was a catcher and only appeared in one game with the parent club. So you ask, why would you interview Bart Zeller? It's simple, Bart was the Cardinals' insurance policy and worked with their great young staff, the likes of Steve Carlton, Mike Torrez, Wayne Granger, and Reggie Cleveland to name a few. He played behind great Cardinal catchers Tim McCarver and Ted Simmons. Bart shares some great stories Back When There Was Baseball.
2023-04-0650 min
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Art HoweThere were a few players in the 1970s whom Rex was told to emulate if he wanted to play Big League Baseball. Art Howe was one of them and he is our guest this week. Art started his athletic career as a football player at the University of Wyoming. After an injury, he concentrated on baseball and it paid dividends. Art started out in the Pirate organization but was traded to the Houston Astros and finally made it to the Majors permanently at the age of 30 in 1977. He was able to play all of the infield positions and was part of...
2023-04-061h 02
Back When There Was BaseballBack When There Was Baseball: Al WorthingtonWe have a rare treat for you this week. Our guest played with Willie Mays, Orlando Cepeda, Ted Williams, Pete Rose, Frank Robinson, Tony Oliva, Harmon Killebrew, and Rod Carew, to name a few. His name is Al Worthington, and he pitched in the Majors from 1953-1969. He was in the dugout when Willie Mays made that great catch in the 1954 World Series and with the Giants when they moved from New York to San Francisco. Al also played in another World Series with the Minnesota Twins in 1965. When his career ended, he got into coaching and guided Liberty...
2023-03-1629 min