Profiles in Sports: Recent Episodes
Brian Wright
Great sporting memories are recalled here - featuring in-depth interviews with notable players, writers, broadcasters and personalities.The 'Profiles in Sports' podcast reflects on the games and events of years past and the individuals that helped create them.
For all the personalities that come and go at ESPN, Linda Cohn has been a trusted, well-respected presence for nearly 25 years. Nobody has anchored more SportsCenter shows than her.
Her 5,000th time hosting the network’s premiere program came on Feb. 21, 2016 – marking a significant accomplishment for a pioneer in this industry. Her love of sports can’t go unnoticed, especially her devotion to the New York Rangers.
Photo courtesy of lindacohn.net
For the Cleveland Cavaliers, their Game 7 win in last year’s NBA Finals over the Golden State Warriors not only capped a tremendous comeback from being down three-games-to-one, it also culminated a personal triumph for LeBron James –- bringing the city of Cleveland a long-awaited championship after leaving them in heartbreaking fashion just six years prior.
NBA writers Brian Windhorst and Dave McMenamin chronicled this incredible journey back to local hero status in a new book called Return of the King.
Photo courtesy of Grand Central Publishing Audio courtesy of ABC Sports
From California to Philadelphia to St. Louis to Kansas City, Dick Vermeil ran the football marathon and came out a winner – most especially so in the form of two Super Bowl appearances and a victory in Super Bowl XXXIV.
After three decades in coaching – to go along with 14 years in the broadcast booth – Vermeil’s post-retirement life has resulted in a shift in priorities. For so long, his passions were blocking and tackling. Now, they center on cabernet and chardonnay.
Photo courtesy of Yardbarker Audio courtesy of CBS Sports and ABC Sports
What makes the NCAA Basketball Tournament so compelling each year are the buzzer beaters and the Cinderellas.
Thirty years ago, the 1987 championship game concluded with a late basket from a player who enjoyed his own Cinderella story. Keith Smart scored 17 second-half points against Syracuse – the last two giving the Indiana Hoosiers a 74-73 victory and a fourth national title.
Less than two years before his shining moment, the Baton Rouge, LA native was playing for Garden City Community College in Kansas having very little high school basketball experience.
Photo courtesy of Bill Haber/AP Audio courtesy of CBS Sports
During the first half of the 1970s, the Oakland A’s were the most colorful team in baseball – with bright double-knit uniforms, long hair and outlandish personalities. They were also the best team – winning five consecutive division titles and three straight World Series from 1972-74.
Author Jason Turbow gives us some great background on a forgotten dynasty with his new book: “Dynasitc, Bombastic, Fantastic: Reggie, Rollie, Catfish, and Charlie Finley’s Swinging A’s”.
Photo courtesy of SI.com Audio courtesy of NBC Sports
Fearless on the field and feared by his opponents, Easley sported a hard-hitting style en route to claiming five trips to the Pro Bowl, four first-team All-Pro selections, the 1981 Defensive Rookie of the Year and the 1984 Defensive Player of the Year.
Yet one of the best safeties of the 1980s had gotten little recognition in regards to the Hall of Fame.
That changed on February 4. Nearly three decades after his career was curtailed by illness and a mere six months following a triple bypass, Easley got the notice that few football players are privileged to receive.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
It took ten years and plenty of voters to be convinced otherwise, but Tim Raines made it to the Hall of Fame on his last try on the writer’s ballot. The premiere National League lead-off hitter of the 1980s was a seven-time All-Star with the Montreal Expos, a batting champion in 1986, and credited with 808 stolen bases – the fourth-most in major league history.
Many factors were responsible for the delayed induction. Ford C. Frick winner Dave Van Horne, who was behind the mic for Raines' entire tenure in Montreal, lends his perspective on the "Rock" had on the Expos franchise.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images Audio courtesy of MLB.com
Going from unknown Red Sox prospect to a well-known face of the Houston Astros franchise, Jeff Bagwell belted 449 home runs over 15 big league seasons and was the unanimous choice for the 1994 National League Most Valuable Player.
His selection as a Hall of Famer, however, was not as resounding. In fact, it took seven tries on the writer’s ballot before the first baseman was Cooperstown-bound.
Like Ivan Rodriguez, Bagwell’s candidacy was met with whispers of steroids – albeit no concrete evidence. But his inclusion in the Hall, according to former Astros play-by-play announcer Bill Brown, was a long time coming.
Photo courtesy of Baseball Hot Corner Audio courtesy of MLB.com
On January 18, the Baseball Hall of Fame announced the election of three players to the National Pastime’s most exclusive and prestigious club.
With that, we’ve entrusted the help of longtime broadcasters – each of whom got to respectively witness the primes of these inductees.
Leading off is our discussion is with Texas Rangers voice Eric Nadel and his fond memories of Ivan Rodriguez – who posted more than 2,800 hits and a lifetime batting average of .296 over 21 seasons, but is most remembered as being one of the greatest defensive catchers ever.
Photo courtesy of The Sporting News Audio courtesy of MLB.com
The longest and most extensive NFL family tree belongs to Matthews clan – which dates back nearly 70 years.
Prominent in this lineage is Bruce Matthews, the versatile and durable Hall of Fame offensive lineman who played 19 seasons with the Tennessee Titans franchise and is the author of a new book, "Inside the NFL’s First Family: My Life of Football, Faith and Fatherhood."
A perfect addendum to the story came with this most recent NFC Championship, where son Jake – a left tackle for the Atlanta Falcons – advanced to the super bowl as his team defeated the Green Bay Packers, starring nephew Clay – the six-time Pro-Bowl linebacker.
Photo and audio courtesy of NFL.com
Since 1977, the unmistakable baritone voice of Merrill Reese has been on the call for the memorable moments of the Philadelphia Eagles – from the original 'Miracle at the Meadowlands', to the 2010 version featuring DeSean Jackson, as well as the two NFC Championships in between.
The NFL’s longest-tenured play-by-play man celebrated his 40th season behind the mic in 2016. And to add to that celebration, he was inducted into the franchise’s Hall of Fame last November.
Photo and audio courtesy of Sportsradio 94WIP
By the time Lenny Moore entered the NFL in 1956, pass-catching running backs were few and far between. But by the time he finished his 12-year career, he had broken the mold.
Lenny totaled more than 12,000 all-purpose yards for the Baltimore Colts and remains the only player in the history of the game with at least 40 rushing touchdowns and 40 receiving touchdowns while enduring the racial tensions of that era.
Photo courtesy of Maryland State Athletic Hall of Fame Audio courtesy of YouTube
The top shutdown cornerbacks in recent NFL history include Richard Sherman, Josh Norman, Derrelle Revis and, going further back, Rod Woodson and Deion Sanders. But during the late 1970s and 1980s, that distinction was bestowed upon Mike Haynes, who earned nine trips to the Pro Bowl, would be named to the NFL’s 75th anniversary all-time team and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1997.
Since his 14-year playing career ended, Mike has been a strong advocate of prostate cancer awareness – having been diagnosed and surviving the disease himself.
Photo courtesy of NFL.com Audio courtesy of CBS Sports
There were plenty of highs and lows in the life of Ken Stabler, and Bleacher Report's Mike Freeman has chronicled it all in his new book entitled "Snake." Stabler spent most of his NFL career quarterbacking the Oakland Raiders and was posthumously inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2016, just over a year after succumbing to cancer at age 69.
Noted more for his moments than his statistics, he was one of the NFL’s greatest pressure performers in addition to being one of its most colorful characters.
Photo courtesy of HarperCollins Audio courtesy of NFL Films
The accomplished author of many acclaimed basketball books has delved into the story of Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant with his new book "Showboat."
Our discussion ranges from Kobe’s youth in Italy following his father’s professional basketball career, how he evolved during his NBA playing days, the relationships with Phil Jackson and Tex Winter, as well as the spectacular 60-point finale this past April.
Photo courtesy of Little, Brown and Company Audio courtesy of NBA.com
New York Times best-selling author Jeff Pearlman has written about such superstars as Walter Payton, Barry Bonds, and Roger Clemens. Now, he’s tackled another great sports figure with his book on a Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback – entitled "Gunslinger: The Remarkable, Improbable, Iconic Life of Brett Favre."
Pearlman discusses – among other topics – Favre’s close connection with his father, his tumultuous rookie season in Atlanta, and the strained relationship with Aaron Rodgers.
Be sure to follow Jeff on Twitter (@jeffpearlman) and at his website (jeffpearlman.com).
Photo courtesy of Triumph Books Audio courtesy of Fox Sports
A key member of the Boston Celtics dynasty during the 1950s and 60s, Heinsohn would win the 1957 Rookie of the year, become a six time All-Star, and was a part of eight championship teams.
He’d win two more titles as head coach, and is one of a select few to be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as both a player and coach.
Now, for more than 30 years, he’s been one of the team’s television broadcasters. Tommy Heinsohn is a true Celtic-for-life.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
As a Rules Analyst on Fox Sports’ football broadcasts, Mike Pereira makes sense out of the confusing.
The former Vice President of Officiating for the National Football League is marking his seventh season in this role that has transformed sports television. Now, he’s an author of “After Further Review: My Life including the Infamous, Controversial, and Unforgettable Calls that Changed the NFL,” in which he outlines his opinions on the way the game is regulated, gives some insight into the life of an official, as well as providing some background on his own life.
Photo courtesy of Triumph Books
His famous “fall back baby” jumper was instrumental in Dick Barnett becoming a three-time All-American, helping lead Tennessee State to three consecutive NAIA championships, and averaging nearly 16 points per game over 14 NBA seasons.
He was a part of five NBA Finals – including both championships for the New York Knicks. After basketball, Barnett obtained a Phd in Education from Fordham, has written several books, went on to become a professor of Sports Management at St. John’s, and is the CEO and founder of SportScope.
Photo courtesy of complex.com Audio clips courtesy of NBA Entertainment
In basketball history, it's still regarded as "The Greatest Game Ever Played." On June 4, 1976, the fifth game of that year's NBA Finals had it all…and then some.
This triple-overtime epic featured countless heroic plays, brilliant execution, controversy, a premature court-storming, as well as a fan-referee fight.
Recounting that classic night at Boston Garden, along with the events that led up to it, are two important figures from the valiant -- but defeated -- Suns: longtime broadcaster Al McCoy and 1975-76 NBA Rookie of the Year Alvan Adams.
Photo courtesy of Sports Illustrated Audio courtesy of “Sunderella Suns” by Fleetwood Sounds and CBS Sports
The name ‘Andretti’ is forever synonymous with racing excellence.
Mario forged an unmatched legacy that continues to this day. Having won – among countless other accomplishments – the Indianapolis 500, the Daytona 500 and the Formula One World Championship, he’s the only man to achieve this remarkable feat.
As we reach the 100th edition of the Indy 500, the legendary driver talks about his 1969 victory, as well as the many near misses by him and his family.
Photo courtesy of Formula1.com Audio clips courtesy of ABC Sports and YouTube
By 1975, Muhammad Ali had ascended to world icon status and, arguably, the most recognizable figure of that day.
Ali’s magnetism drew the attention of many, including Tim Shanahan. Soon after they first met, this relationship evolved into morning runs together, which then developed into a close friendship that has now spanned more than 40 years and is detailed in his newly-released book, appropriately titled “Running with the Champ.”
Photo courtesy of Simon & Schuster Audio clips courtesy of HBO Sports and ABC Sports
The Indianapolis 500 can produce spectacular highs and devastating lows – a gamut of emotions that make it one of the best one-day sporting events.
For Bobby Rahal, the 1986 edition proved to be his greatest moment in a successful career. With a dramatic pass in the final laps, he earned an emotional victory for his ailing car owner.
Rahal would go on to win three CART season championships (1986, ’87, ’92), and would later enjoy Indy glory as an owner in 2004.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images Audio clips courtesy of ABC Sports
No gymnast in U.S. history has had a more decorated career. Shannon Miller came onto the world stage at the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona, where she earned three bronze medals and two silvers.
Gold would come four years later in Atlanta, in the form of an individual honor on the balance beam and also as part of an unforgettable group that captured the all-around team competition -- while capturing the hearts of the country in the process.
By battling and beating cancer in 2011, she became a further inspiration to the many others battling this disease.
Photo courtesy of archive.feedblitz.com Audio clips courtesy of NBC Sports
Jackie Robinson’s legacy as a Hall of Fame player and a civil rights pioneer is one that will endure forever. His breaking of the color barrier with the Brooklyn Dodgers in April 1947 makes him the most significant figure in the history of our national pastime.
But there’s much more to the story, as Ken Burns depicts in his latest work, “Jackie Robinson”, a two-part, four-hour documentary which premiers April 11 and 12 on PBS.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images Audio credit: “Did You See Jackie Robinson Hit That Ball?” by Buddy Johnson and Count Basie
Golf’s greatest player on golf’s grandest stage is sure to create a memorable occasion.
But the final round of the 1986 Masters took it a step further. That’s because Jack Nicklaus, at age 46 and thought to be finished as a serious contender, once more reached back and displayed the talents that made him a legend – winning a sixth green jacket and 18th major thanks to a back nine performance never to be forgotten.
Making it all the more special was that “The Golden Bear” got to share this magical moment with 24-year-son Jackie, who was there as his caddy.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images Audio clips courtesy of CBS Sports
In the 1985 NCAA Championship, David prevailed over Goliath.
Georgetown appeared invincible – seemingly on its way to a second straight national title. But that didn’t faze the underdogs from Villanova, a Big East rival who had endured two close losses to the Hoyas during the regular season.
Using familiarity, and by connecting on an amazing 79 percent of their field goal attempts, the eighth-seeded Wildcats – led by Ed Pinckney – stunned the basketball world with a 66-64 win and the school’s first NCAA crown. The victory would be extra special for the senior forward from The Bronx, who was named the tourney’s Most Outstanding Player.
Photo courtesy of BET.com Audio clips courtesy of CBS Sports
Through their supremacy on the field and their escapades off of it, the 1986 New York Mets remain one of the Big Apple’s most memorable teams – not to mention one of the best.
With an entertainment value worthy of the Broadway stage, much has been written about that season itself – as well the aftermath – in the three decades since the dramatic seven-game World Series triumph over the Boston Red Sox.
But thanks to author Erik Sherman’s latest work, "Kings of Queens: Life Beyond Baseball with the ’86 Mets", many relatively unknown and captivating stories of are unearthed.
Photo courtesy of Penguin Books Audio Courtesy of “Mets 1986: A Year to Remember”, ABC Sports, NBC Sports, and “Great Sports Moments of the ‘80s”
It’s one of the true rarities in team sports: perfection. For men’s college basketball, the last group to achieve this feat was Indiana University – 40 years ago.
The starting guard and co-captain of that revered 1976 squad recalls the close calls encountered on the road to 32-0, how the team of the previous season was equally – if not more – capable of also going unbeaten, as well as the Hoosiers’ accomplished and intense head coach, Bob Knight.
Photo courtesy of Malcolm Emmons/USA Today Sports Audio clips courtesy of NBC Sports and CBS Sports
When the final buzzer sounded on the 1966 NCAA Championship between Texas Western and Kentucky little did anyone in attendance at Cole Field House in College Park, Md know the impact of the Miners’ 72-65 victory.
Don Haskins’ team – and its five African-American starters – beat Adolph Rupp’s top-ranked Wildcats – and their five white starters – in a game that did more than simply alter the course of college athletics.
Three members of that Texas Western starting lineup helped commemorate the 50th anniversary of this historic event: guard Willie Worsley, center David Lattin, and forward Willie Cager.
Photo courtesy of The El Paso Times Audio courtesy of YouTube and UTEP Athletics
No defense in NFL history ever enjoyed more sustained greatness than Pittsburgh’s famed “Steel Curtain.” This group played a major role in the Steelers winning four Super Bowls over a six-year span and featured four eventual Hall of Famers.
Among this collection of stars was Ham, the premiere outside linebacker of the 1970s. His quickness and intelligence would help him reach eight Pro Bowls, be named a First-team All-Pro on six occasions, and earn No. 59 a spot in Canton in 1988.
Photo courtesy of Manny Rubio/NFL Photos Audio clips courtesy of NBC Sports
The St. Louis Cardinals have set the standard that all other MLB clubs aspire to match. Over the past 16 seasons, they have reached the postseason 12 times, won four NL pennants and two World Series.
And thanks to a farm system that is as deep as any other, they don’t seem to be letting up any time soon.
Megdal discusses his newest book, “The Cardinals Way”, and how a franchise has managed to blend new wave ideals while maintaining an old school approach.
Photo courtesy of St. Martin’s Press Audio courtesy of FOX Sports
His is a football life that has taken him to some of the sport's premier locations – from Green Bay to Baltimore to Tuscaloosa. He’s played for a trio of Hall of Fame coaches and was a starter in three of the first five Super Bowls – including the two that were most responsible for laying the groundwork of what we now know as America’s biggest sporting event.
Photo courtesy of billcurry.net Audio clips courtesy of NBC Sports and CBS Sports
The former Dodgers general manager talks about how his background in journalism led to him starting out as a public relations executive, the critical moves that helped win the 1988 World Series, a trade he still regrets, and how the blockbuster deal that moved Mike Piazza out of Los Angeles in 1998 – a move made behind his back – led to dismissal after 30 years with the organization.
Photo courtesy of yahoo.com Audio clips courtesy of “1988 World Series Film” by MLB Productions, NBC Sports, and MLB.com
The nationally-recognized writer is back for a second straight year on the show to discuss all things Hall of Fame – including the recent voting results, the legacies of Ken Griffey Jr. and Mike Piazza, as well as a preview of what’s to come for 2017.
Audio courtesy of MLB Network, “The Dan Patrick Show”/Premiere Radio Networks, ABC Sports, MLB.com, and NBC Sports
Photo courtesy of The Associated Press
Joe Jackson, Lefty Williams, Happy Felsch, Buck Weaver, Swede Risberg, Chick Gandil, Eddie Cicotte, Fred McMullin.
Eight names forever linked in baseball infamy. They, of course, are the members of the Chicago White Sox who received lifetime banishment from baseball for conspiring to throw the 1919 World Series against Cincinnati.
While the dark cloud that hovered over the sport would eventually fade away, the discussion hasn’t. Charles Fountain examines the myriad details in his new book, “The Betrayal,” released on October 15.
Photo courtesy of Oxford University Press Audio clips courtesy of “Baseball: Inning 3” by Ken Burns
The excitement of the first five games of the 1975 World Series was nothing compared to what took place over the final two.
On October 21, Fenway Park played host to arguably the greatest game in World Series history – a four hour, 12-inning classic that ended with Carlton Fisk’s unforgettable home run to keep the Red Sox alive.
Game 6 is forever an all-timer, but the deciding Game 7 was also tremendous theatre – ultimately decided in the ninth. Cincinnati came out a winner, and so did baseball.
Once again, taking us through the dramatic conclusion are four key figures from the series:
-Fred Lynn, Red Sox center fielder as well as the ’75 AL Rookie of the Year and MVP
-Tony Perez, Reds Hall of Fame first baseman who drove in 109 runs that season
-Bernie Carbo, Boston outfielder and a former member of Cincinnati
-Bill Lee, Red Sox left-handed starting pitcher and winner of 17 games
Photo courtesy of AP Images
Audio clips courtesy of NBC Sports, “Baseball: Inning 8” by Ken Burns, and “1975 World Series Film” by MLB Productions
It wasn’t just one of the best-played World Series of all-time; it probably was the most impactful.
Millions around the country were witness to a true Fall classic 40 years ago – a showdown between two talent-laden clubs that was taken to its limit.
Providing first-hand accounts from this series are:
-Fred Lynn, Red Sox center fielder as well as the ’75 AL Rookie of the Year and MVP
-Tony Perez, Reds Hall of Fame first baseman who drove in 109 runs that season
-Bernie Carbo, Boston outfielder and a former member of Cincinnati
-Bill Lee, Red Sox left-handed starting pitcher and winner of 17 games
In Part 1 of a two-part retrospective, we look back at the build-up to this match-up, the pitching prowess of Luis Tiant in Games 1 and 4, and the controversy that ensued in Game 3.
Photo courtesy of sikids.com Audio clips courtesy of NBC Sports and “1975 World Series Film” by MLB Productions
The story of Frank Tanana's major league career can be divided into two acts.
He quickly rose to stardom with the California Angels as a strikeout pitcher – fanning as many as 269 in 1975. But a shoulder injury in 1979 necessitated a wholesale alteration to his throwing style.
Tanana eventually regained a winning form, compiling 240 victories – the most notable of which occurred on the final day of the 1987 season, in which he shut out the Toronto Blue Jays to propel his hometown Detroit Tigers to the American League East title.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images Audio clips courtesy of MLB.com and ABC Sports
The 56-game hitting streak for Joe DiMaggio. Cal Ripken’s 2,632 consecutive games played. Cy Young’s 511 victories. All are baseball records which will never be surpassed.
Bob Wolff also holds an unbreakable record. Covering everything from the National Football League to the Westminster Dog Show, Wolff has been on the air since 1939.
The baseball-related feats of this 1995 Hall of Fame inductee include countless interviews, being the play-by-play voice of the Washington Senators, and calling several World Series games – including the finest pitching performance in postseason history.
Photo courtesy of The New York Times Audio clips courtesy of MLB.com and the National Baseball Hall of Fame
In a career that covered 24 seasons and four decades, Rick Dempsey possessed endearing qualities as both a durable catcher and a unique personality. Our lineup of topics discussed with Rick includes:
-His relationship with his Orioles Hall of Fame manager Earl Weaver
-How the World Series loss in 1979 to the Pittsburgh Pirates was motivation to winning it all in 1983 against the Philadelphia Phillies, a series in which he was named the Most Valuable Player
-His heavyweight home plate collision with Bo Jackson
-The inspiration behind his comic “rain delay theater”
Photo courtesy of The Baltimore Sun
Audio clips courtesy of ABC Sports and This Week in Baseball’s Greatest Plays by Major League Baseball Productions
The 1960 Pittsburgh Pirates, as he put it, were a team of destiny. Dick Groat, the National League’s Most Valuable Player that season, was one of many key contributors who led the Bucs to their first title in 35 years – culminating in the unforgettable Game 7 bottom-of-the-ninth home run off the bat of Bill Mazeroski.
An MVP and two World Series rings are feats not many major leaguers get to experience. But Groat has an additional accomplishment on his athletic resume – a two-time All-American basketball player at Duke University and a short stint in the NBA before choosing to stick with baseball.
That knowledge and love of basketball hasn’t left him, and is currently used in his long-standing position as radio analyst for the Pittsburgh Panthers.
Photo courtesy of SI.com
Audio clips courtesy of “1960 World Series Film” by Major League Baseball Productions, “Baseball: Inning 8 by Ken Burns, and IMG College Audio Network
The 1986 Mets didn’t just dominate the major league competition. They ruled New York City in a way that hasn’t been matched since.
Filmmaker Heather Quinlan is in the late stages of developing a documentary on this team that won 108 games with brash and bravado and would go on to capture the World Series over the Boston Red Sox with a remarkable comeback spirit.
For more on the project, including interview clips with Dwight Gooden, Mookie Wilson, Bill Buckner, Lenny Dykstra, and Kevin Mitchell, go to http://86metsmovie.com.
Part of this episode also features sound from the music video “Let’s Go Mets,” created in 1986 by Shelly Palmer and available on iTunes.
Photo courtesy of metshotcorner.com
Audio clips courtesy of NBC Sports, “Let’s Go Mets” by Shelly Palmer, and “1986 Mets: A Year to Remember” by Major League Baseball Productions
The list of accomplishments in the storied life of Lawrence Peter Berra is just about as long as the many endearing and humorous quotes that will forever make him the indelible Yogi.
But there could very well be one more honor headed his way in the near future. Thanks to a petition initiated by the board members of his learning museum in New Jersey and signed by thousands of admiring fans, this all-time great is under consideration from the White House to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Lindsay Berra speaks on her grandfather’s legacy as a Hall of Fame catcher and citizen.
Photo courtesy of Lindsay Berra Audio clips courtesy of Baseball: Inning 7 by Ken Burns, NBC Sports, and WCBS-TV New York
There was plenty to talk about with the veteran of 15 big league seasons and 176 wins – from his college days at St. John’s to the grand stage of the World Series to coaching some of the top young arms of the New York Mets’ minor league system – and “Sweet Music” was happy to oblige. Among the topics discussed with Frank Viola:
-His role in what many consider to be the greatest game in college baseball history, when he and Ron Darling dueled into extra innings during the 1981 NCAA Northeast Regional
-The Minnesota Twins’ run through the 1987 postseason, ultimately leading to the franchise’s first title and the World Series MVP
-How the assignment of pitching Game 1 of that ’87 World Series conflicted with another major responsibility
-The Cy Young Award-winning season of 1988, in which he tallied 24 victories
-Why attaining his 20th victory of the 1990 season for New York wasn’t without a moment of public embarrassment
-His thoughts on the potential of the current crop of talented Mets pitchers that he helped mold in the minors
Photo courtesy of Getty Images Audio courtesy of ABC Sports and SportsNet New York
The Hall of Fame Induction ceremony isn’t just a special time for those honored. It’s a focal point of the baseball calendar – when the sport has its eyes on Cooperstown and when many fans of the game make the trek to the tiny village in upstate New York.
But, in fact, the National Baseball Hall of Fame Museum is a year-long attraction for the history buffs of our national pastime.
President Jeff Idelson plays a key role in helping preserve that history. In addition to discussing this year’s Hall of Fame class, Jeff talked about his background in baseball, how the museum obtains the materials for some of its exhibits, and how it will deal the dilemmas surrounding performance enhancing drug users.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images Audio clips courtesy of Fox Sports Houston, WNYW (New York), CBS Sports, and Turner Sports
Having earned plaudits as one of baseball's best and most respected journalists, Tom Verducci embarks on his second turn as an All-Star Game color analyst for FOX. Here's a lineup of some of the topics discussed:
-The 1970 All-Star Game, which also took place in Cincinnati, and showcased the competitiveness of Pete Rose
-Memories of watching the Midsummer Classic as a youngster, covering it as a reporter, and broadcasting it from the TV booth last year
-His thoughts on the Franchise Four voting, which is set to be revealed at Great American Ballpark in a pregame ceremony
Photo courtesy of onwardstate.com Audio clips courtesy of WLW-AM and NBC Sports
One of the stars who powered the Big Red Machine, Tony Perez' standout years in Cincinnati earned him a ticket to the Hall of Fame. In total, he played 23 seasons with the Reds, Red Sox, Expos and Phillies. Among the topics discussed:
-How those who have recently made the daunting journey from Cuba to the United States relate to his transition in 1960 at age 17.
-His critical home run in the sixth inning of Game 7 of the 1975 World Series, which got the Reds on track toward the victory over Boston.
-Election into the Hall in 2000 after nine turns on the ballot, becoming the first Cuban-born player to receive that honor
-Historical comparisons to Marlins slugger Giancarlo Stanton
Photo courtesy of Getty Images Audio clips courtesy of NBC Sports and the National Baseball Hall of Fame
From the high of being an All-Star starting pitcher to the low of homelessness, J.R. Richard has experienced both extremes.
By 1980, he had established himself as the most intimidating pitcher in the game – coming off of two consecutive 300-plus strikeout seasons and helping lead the Houston Astros into pennant contention.
But in late July, the 30-year-old suffered a major stroke, and would never pitch in the majors again.
Within 15 years, he would hit rock bottom. Financial issues led to him living under a bridge in Houston – a mere eight miles from the Astrodome.
It’s been only positive since then, as he now serves his community and has penned a new book, “Still Throwing Heat.”
Photo courtesy of Bill Ames/Triumph Books Audio clips courtesy of ABC Sports
In a straight-laced sport such as baseball, Bill Lee – better known as “Spaceman” – was a distinctive personality.
Through 14 big league seasons and 119 victories, he was as crafty on the mound as he was opinionated off of it.
But Lee has defied age by pitching competitively into his late 60s. So, even though he may have left the majors in 1982, Bill Lee has really never left baseball.
It only makes sense that this outrageous character will be the subject of a biographical film based on one of Lee's books, with Josh Duhamel in the lead role.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
Audio clips courtesy of NBC Sports and “Spaceman: A Baseball Odyssey” by Mangito Enterprises
Jackie, Pee Wee, Duke, Campanella, and Hodges – names that still resonate strongly in the borough of Brooklyn and make up one of the most indelible teams in baseball history.
Another name that will long be remembered is Carl Erskine, a right-hander who threw two no-hitters, won 20 games in 1953, and set a then-World Series single game record that same year with 14 strikeouts.
But the greatest memory of his career, along with the careers of those other great players, has to be the 1955 World Series – as the Dodgers broke through to finally win a long-awaited championship over the crosstown rival New York Yankees.
Photo courtesy of Dodger Insider
Audio clips courtesy of “Baseball: Inning 6” by Ken Burns, “1955 World Series Film” by MLB Productions, and “Baseball: Inning 7” by Ken Burns
From the Dave Winfield sweepstakes to Fernandomania, Pete Rose’s National League hit record to the comeback Dodgers ultimately capturing the World Series, the 1981 season -- and the winter that preceded it -- wasn’t lacking for storylines.
But the biggest news was about the games that weren’t played.
A players strike in June caused a rupture in the schedule, in addition to the obvious division between the owners and their high-priced employees.
Jeff Katz, author of “Split Season” (not to mention the mayor of Cooperstown, NY), details this historic year in baseball – both on the field and in the boardroom.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
Audio clips courtesy of KABC, NBC Sports, and ABC Sports
He was not your prototypical power hitter. Yet Jimmy Wynn slugged 20 or more home runs eight times during his 15-year career.
Seven of those seasons were while wearing the colors of the Houston Astros – and dealing with the pitcher-friendly dimensions of the Astrodome.
But the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” which opened 50 years ago, was much more than just a spacious ballpark. It was the first fully air-conditioned multipurpose domed stadium, and brought about many revolutionary and radical innovations.
Among other topics, “The Toy Cannon” recalls his memories of playing in the Astrodome during its early days, his resurgence with the pennant-winning Los Angeles Dodgers in 1974, and speaks on his most towering homer.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
Audio clips courtesy of Universal Newsreel, MLB Productions, and NBC Sports
Once an established pitcher and now a respected broadcaster, Jim Kaat has been one of baseball's finest representatives.
Soon after his 25-year playing career ended, Kaat seamlessly transitioned from sporting a glove to using a microphone. He's been a lead color analyst on MLB Network since 2009. But from 1995-2006, he did local broadcasts for the New York Yankees.
Those years, plus his stint in pinstripes as a player, make up most of the stories found in his new book, "If These Walls Could Talk: New York Yankees."
Photo courtesy of Getty Images Audio clips courtesy of "1965 World Series Film" by MLB Home Video, NBC Sports, MSG Network, and MLB Network
Trying to describe Billy Martin in one word is no easy task. Belligerent, mercurial, intelligent, aggressive, confusing, and insightful would all qualify. Because of that, he can best be remembered as a complex character.
Bill Pennington’s new book, "Billy Martin: Baseball’s Flawed Genius", describes the former Yankee player and manager’s life in great detail – from his upbringing in Berkley, CA to his untimely death in a car accident in upstate New York, as well as every significant moment in-between.
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Some players deal with obstacles on their road to achieving Major League status. But Jim Abbott is in a class all his own.
As has been well documented over the years, Abbott was born without a right hand. Nonetheless, he pursued baseball – despite a steepened learning curve.
He would be more than up to that challenge. Not only did he succeed immensely as a pitcher in high school and college, Abbott earned a complete game victory in the gold medal game of the 1988 Summer Olympics.
Those accomplishments, though, paled in comparison to his no-hitter in 1993 against the Cleveland Indians – as this unlikely story added one more incredible chapter.
Today, Abbott is a motivational speaker – giving further inspiration to those with similar adversities.
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Audio clips courtesy of NBC Sports and MSG Network
Babe Ruth’s legacy is eternal.
That statement holds true some 80 years after he played his final big league game.
From a stellar pitching record with the Boston Red Sox to an unbelievable home run-hitting ability that had been unseen before, Ruth’s career leaves little doubt as to who is baseball’s all-time greatest player.
The Babe’s only living daughter, 98-year-old Julia Ruth Stevens, was more than happy to share some fond memories of her famous father.
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Audio clips courtesy of “Just Pals”, “Baseball: Inning 4” by Ken Burns, MLB Productions and “Baseball: Inning 6” by Ken Burns
The average Major League Baseball career today lasts 5.6 years. Jerry Reuss had nearly four times that length.
During his 22 seasons, this left-handed starting pitcher won 220 games, played on seven different teams and earned a World Series ring as a member of the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1981 – with the help of his Game 5 victory.
Tales of more than two decades at the game’s highest level is described in his 2014 book, "Bring in the Right-Hander!", and is also shared in our discussion.
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There’s no denying Pete Rose’s place among the greatest and most passionate players the game has ever seen. However, the man with the most hits in baseball history is still without a Hall of Fame plaque.
That doesn’t do much to suppress the outpouring of support from his legions of fans – including Terry Lukemire, who grew up following the Reds in the heyday of “The Big Red Machine.”
His 2010 documentary is just a small example of how Rose continues to be revered in Cincinnati even though he may not yet be recognized in Cooperstown.
For more on Lukemire’s film, go to www.4192movie.com
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Audio clips courtesy of “4192: The Crowning of the Hit King”, MLB Productions and WLWT-TV
The national pastime in our nation’s capital is a perfect match. But it wasn’t too long ago that baseball was absent from Washington D.C. – a 33-year break, to be specific. Then came the Washington Nationals nearly ten years ago.
It was a much-anticipated moment for the city – especially for long-standing residents who went as much as three decades without a ballclub.
Among them was Phil Wood, whose childhood includes following both versions of the Senators.
The longtime Washington baseball historian reflects on the evolution of Nationals franchise since 2005 and the events that preceded its arrival.
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Audio clips courtesy of WWDC-FM and WJFK-FM
As the first player in MLB history to win Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player in the same season, Lynn helped lead the Boston Red Sox to the 1975 American League pennant and into a classic World Series against the Cincinnati Reds.
He made the All-Star Game nine times and had a penchant for daring outfield play over the course of his 16 big league seasons. In our interview, Lynn discusses his most memorable All-Star outing as well as his noted fielding style – along with his memories of the seven-game Fall Classic that took place nearly 40 years ago.
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Audio clips courtesy of NBC Sports and MLB Productions
It’s only appropriate that we talk baseball movies with the Academy Awards upcoming. The Washington Post movie critic provides her take on some of the noteworthy films – such as Field of Dreams, Pride of the Yankees, Moneyball and Eight Men Out.
Photo from Orion Pictures/Bull Durham
Audio clips from Orion Pictures/Bull Durham, Columbia Pictures/Moneyball, Warner Bros. Pictures/42, and MGM/Eight Men Out
The former Kansas City Royals slugger discusses his historic performance in the 1980 World Series, his severe involvement with cocaine and subsequent prison sentences, as well as his road to redemption.
Aikens' biography, "Safe at Home" by Gregory Jordan, can be purchased at Amazon and other places books are sold.
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Audio clips courtesy of NBC Sports and HBO/"Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel"
The author of the newly-released book, "Marvin Miller, Baseball Revolutionary" discusses the moments that made him one of the sport's most important figures -- including the death of the long-standing reserve clause in 1975.
Photo courtesy of USATSI
Audio clip courtesy of "Baseball: Inning 9" by Ken Burns
During Marvin Miller’s tenure as the head of the Major League Baseball Players Association, average player salary increased from $19,000 to over $240,000. Today, this union is acknowledged as one of the strongest labor organizations in the United States.
Simply put, Miller changed baseball and the business of sports. That point is emphasized further by author Robert F. Burk in his new book, "Marvin Miller, Baseball Revolutionary."
In Part 1 of our two-part interview, Burke discusses Miller’s life in the labor movement prior to involvement in baseball, his early years as the head of MLB’s players union, and the relationship he had with long-time commissioner Bowie Kuhn.
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Audio clips courtesy of ‘Baseball: Inning 8’ by Ken Burns
Reaching a goal he had set out since youth, Brian Jordan distinguished himself with a feat rarely achieved in the world of athletics.
Jordan’s professional career began as a safety with the Atlanta Falcons, where he played three seasons and became a Pro Bowl alternate in 1991.
Then, it was on to the diamond – beginning with the St. Louis Cardinals. His stay in the major leagues lasted much longer – a 15-year career that was highlighted by four seasons of 20 or more home runs, a lifetime batting average of .282 as well as an All-Star selection and a World Series appearance in 1999.
Brian Jordan dreamed big. Now, he encourages today’s youngsters to do the same through his charitable organization. For more on the Brian Jordan Foundation, visit brianjordanfoundation.com.
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Audio clips courtesy of NFL Films and NBC Sports/Major League Baseball
In basic medical terms, it’s an ulner collateral ligament replacement procedure. In more understandable baseball terms, it’s Tommy John Surgery.
A medical operation that is certainly one of the hot-button issues in the game today has its origins back to 1974, when Los Angeles Dodgers team physician Dr. Frank Jobe and left-hander Tommy John collaborated on a revolutionary treatment with the hopes of saving John’s pitching elbow as well as his Major League career.
It became a wondrous success – and baseball has never been the same since.
For more on Tommy John’s career and his “Let’s Do It” Foundation, visit tommyjohn25.com.
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Audio clips courtesy of NBC Sports, MLB Productions, WAVY-TV Hampton Roads, and Fox Sports 1
For "postgame" analysis on last week's Hall of Fame vote, we had the pleasure of talking with two BBWAA members to discuss their own ballots, the voting results, and preview the 2016 candidates.
Barry Bloom is an MLB.com national reporter who has more than 35 years of sports journalism experience – including a lengthy stint with the San Diego Union-Tribune, where he regularly covered the brilliant career of Tony Gwynn. He has his own blog, Boomskie on Baseball, and can be followed on Twitter (@boomskie).
An author of four books, Joe Posnanski has been an NBC Sports national columnist since February 2013. Prior, he wrote for Sports Illustrated, Sports on Earth as well as The Kansas City Star (among other ventures) and has been the recipient of many awards for his work. He, too, has his own blog (Joe Blogs) and is @JPosnanski on Twitter.
Photo courtesy of USA Today
Audio clips courtesy of Associated Press and MLB Network
No other professional sports franchise has altered the course of human evolution like the Chicago Cubs. That is proven in great detail by author Scott Rowan in his recently-released book, "The Cubs Quotient: How the Chicago Cubs Changed the World."
Nearly 200 stories, spread over 77 chapters, cover this team’s influence on various aspects of our society: from White House scandals to secret societies; firsts in medicine, psychology, architecture, music and race relations; covert relationships with underworld figures and unknown connections to some of the most notorious figures in American history.
For more on "The Cubs Quotient," visit sherpamultimedia.com. Rowan’s book can purchased on Amazon.com as well as other retailers.
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Determined, passionate, proud, talented -- all apt descriptions for Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente.
He was intent on not just earning respect for his play on the field, but to provide a charitable impact on communities less fortunate -- especially those in his native Puerto Rico.
With 3,000 hits, four batting titles, two World Series rings, 12 consecutive gold gloves, many posthumous dedications as well as a litany of fans and players that revere him still, there's no doubt he accomplished those goals.
It was a life well-lived, but a life that came to an untimely and tragic end on Dec. 31, 1972, when he was killed in a plane crash en route to aid earthquake victims in Nicaragua.
Many thanks to Roberto Clemente Jr. for joining us as we honor the memory of his father on the anniversary of that fateful day.
Photo courtesy of ct.gov
Audio clips courtesy of MLB.com
'Baseball', a nine-part documentary by Ken Burns that premiered in September 1994, chronologically follows the history of the sport — profiling the key personalities and events in great detail over an unprecedented 18.5 hours.
The initial broadcast was watched by 45 million viewers and the film won a 1995 Emmy Award for Outstanding Informational Series.
In our discussion, done around the program's 20th anniversary, Burns talks about the film’s production, some of its notable interview subjects, and its legacy.
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Craig Biggio and Jeff Bagwell were among the best at their respective positions in the 1990s and were the faces of the Houston Astros franchise during that era.
However, neither has received the call for Cooperstown.
Biggio, a member of the 3,000-hit club, has come closest – falling just two votes short of election in January 2014. Bagwell received 54.3 percent of the vote in the most recent writer’s ballot.
Larry Dierker got to know these two quite well – first as an Astros broadcaster and then as their manager from 1997-2001. As an advocate for both to enter the Hall of Fame, Dierker spoke about their outstanding baseball careers.
Photo courtesy of blog.chron.com
Audio clips courtesy of MLB.com
The fight between San Francisco Giants Hall of Fame pitcher Juan Marichal and Los Angeles Dodgers catcher John Roseboro was baseball at its worst. What happened in the coming years would be forgiveness at its best.
John Rosengren, author of "The Fight of their Lives", discusses a story that goes well beyond what took place on August 22, 1965 at Candlestick Park.
For more on John Rosengren and this highly-acclaimed book, go to fightoftheirlives.net and johnrosengren.net.
Photo courtesy of Deadspin
Audio courtesy of MLB Network
There are some stories that are so unbelievable that they have to be true. The tall tale perpetuated by Dock Ellis regarding June 12, 1970 in San Diego most definitely qualifies as such.
On that date, the late Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander pitched a no-hitter against the Padres. And for years, he claimed to have completed this feat while under the influence of LSD.
But Ellis’ career and personal life isn’t singularly defined by that experience, which was brought to light in "No No: A Dockumentary." He was an outspoken advocate for civil rights and one-of-a-kind personality on a Pirates team that was ahead of the curve as far as social standards were concerned.
All of those facets of Dock Ellis were discussed with director and producer Jeffrey Radice.
Photo courtesy of Rolling Stone
Many speak very highly of their time playing with and for Gil Hodges. Under Hodges’ guidance as manager of the New York Mets, Jerry Koosman thrived instantly with an outstanding rookie season in 1968.
Becoming the top left-handed starting pitcher on a dominant staff, Koosman helped forge the New York Mets run to an unlikely World Series title one year later. Koosman speaks to the impact Hodges had on the Miracle Mets and the impact he has on him still to this day.
Audio courtesy of MLB Productions and the New York Mets
Come Dec. 8, there will be ten baseball men who have another chance of being elected to Cooperstown and the Hall of Fame. Among them are Tony Oliva and Gil Hodges. Mike Murphy, co-founder of VoteTonyO.com, speaks on behalf of Oliva's candidacy, while Gil Hodges, Jr. discusses his late father's legacy.
Photos courtesy of notinhalloffame.com and lewpaper.com
Audio clips courtesy of the Minnesota Twins, MLB Productions and NBC Sports