Hit Bull Win Podcast: Recent Episodes
Capitol Broadcasting Company
Join hosts Patrick Norwood and Scott Strickland for the official podcast of the Durham Bulls, the Triple-A affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays.
This week, New York Yankees' Triple-A manager Shelley Duncan joins Patrick Kinas on THE Durham Bulls Podcast to talk about his professional baseball career, his major league baseball family, his relationship with Bulls Hall of Fame manager Charlie Montoyo and his 2013 Governors Cup title season with Durham.
Duncan also discusses at length the impact of his mom and brother, who both lost battles to glioblastoma brain cancer, treated at nearby Duke Medical and his profound relationships with both of them, along with the memories he carries forward to this day.
In Duncan's return to Durham this week with the RailRiders playing at the DBAP, Duncan organized a staff participation fundraiser on Duke Medica's Angel Walk 5K, which was organized to help raise funds to research and treat the very cancer that took Duncan's brother and mother.
This is a "Don't Miss" episode.
This week, Durham Bulls outfielder Jake Mangum joins the show alongside his dad John, who played nine seasons as a defensive back for the Chicago Bears. Hear the journey of Jake on his way to Durham, from his record-setting time at Mississippi State to his treks to the College World Series. The Mangums talk about the parallels in their sport, stories from Jake's childhood and memories of their special bond.
Author and professor emeritus at Duke University Harris Cooper joins THE Durham Bulls Podcast to talk about his book "Finding America In A Minor League Ballpark" depicting his season as a seating bowl host at Durham Bulls Athletic Park.
Cooper talks about his psychology career, his love of baseball, the personal stories he uncovered during his season with the Durham Bulls. Cooper recounts stories of his youth, his love of baseball and the briging his experiences together for the book.
Seven-year MLB outfielder Brandon Guyer joins Bullls broadcaster Patrick Kinas this week on THE Durham Bulls Podcast.
Guyer talks about his company Major League Mindset befoe delving into his four seasons (2011-14) with the Bulls. Guyer also breaks down what it's like to prepare for a Game 7 of the World Series, something he has first-hand knowledge of from 2016 in playing for the Cleveland Indians against the Chicago Cubs in one of the most memorable Fall Classics in a generation.
Guyer also talks about the originiation of his nickname "La Pinata", the "Bet" that led to him going out on his first date with his wife, and his first major league call-up.
This week's episode of THE Durham Bulls Podcast features former Durham Bulls infielder Tristan Gray, who spent portions of three seasons with the Bulls, leading Durham to a pair of International League and Triple-A National Championships in 2021 and 2022.
Gray, now playing in the Miami Marlins organization, compares emotions between his wedding last November and his MLB debut two months prior. He also shares a wild story about how he heard about his first major league call-up.
Tristan also gives the definitive, first-hand story of how his UPS vest became integral to the Durham Bulls home run celebrations and the run to the Triple-A Championship in 2022.
Gray also chats about the "Basabe Game" from July 4th, 2023, growing up the son of a minor league player, following in his father's footsteps in college and pro ball, and opens the curtain about championship clubhouse celebrations.
Durham Bulls' fan favorite Miles Mastrobuoni joins THE Durham Bulls Podcast to talk about his journey to Wrigley Field as a super-utility player for the Chicago Cubs.
Miles takes us through his San Francisco Bay upbringing, where he developed his blue-collar style of play, his special relationship with his brother, his memories of playing for the Durham Bulls, the story of his first major-league call-up and his bond how his bond with Ripken The Bat Dog developed.
This week's podcast introduces the new Durham Bulls manager for the 2024 season, former National League All-Star Morgan Ensberg.
This episode covers a ton of ground from his time delivering produce as a teenage in southern California, his love of skiing, walking on to his college team at USC, his first major league call-up, playing in the 2005 World Series, his relationship with teammates who were baseball's biggest stars from Roger Clemens to Greg Maddux, Derek Jeter, Jeff Bagwell and many others.
The theme of the podcast always returns to Morgan's love of the game of baseball and teaching.
Enjoy this conversation with the next leader of the Durham Bulls.
If you were ever curious how "The Greatest Mascot In The World" Wool E. Bull got his name? Do we have the podcast for you.
In the spring of 1992, the Durham Bulls held a contest of name their mascot. Durham native Jim Vickery won that contest with his submission of Wool E. Bull.
In this week's podcast, Jim recounts the story of the contest, his submission, the prizes and even how he stumbled upon an authentic script to the movie Bull Durham.
Jim also describes what a game at Durham Athletic Park was like during his summers three decades ago.
This week's episode of THE Durham Bulls Podcast features General Manager Tyler Parsons. Tyler discusses his life and career journey from the tiny Village of Dansville, Michigan to his first job in sports working for his alma mater Central Michigan University, to his time as the GM of his hometown team - the Lansing Lugnuts - to ultimately getting the call to lead the Durham Bulls.
Tyler also talks about meeting his wife, his favorite part about being a father of two young children, the pressures to succeed in Durham and what he envisions as the future for the Bulls franchise.
Tyler also takes a few questions from his colleagues in the front office!
Former Durham Bulls flame-throwing RH reliever Ryne Stanek joins THE Durham Bulls Podcast to talk about his three seasons in Durham.
Stanek shares stories about his first major league call-up, his unique pizza gender reveal of his second child, the business of baseball, embracing his girl-dad status, the story of meeting his reality-star wife and who HE wants to book on a future episode of the podcast.
In Episode 2 of THE Durham Bulls Podcast, Patrick Kinas visits with Bill Evers, who was the first Triple-A manager of the Durham Bulls. Evers, an original Tampa Bay Devil Rays hire at the inception of the franchise, managed the Bulls from 1998 through 2005, claiming back-to-back Governors Cup championships (2002-03) and his #20 was later inducted into the Internaional League Hall of Fame.
Evers became bench coach for the Tampa Bay Rays, then later joined one of his former players, Rocco Baldelli, on Baldelli's major league coaching staff with the Minnestoa Twins.
Evers retired after the 2021 season and in this episode reflects on his time with the Bulls, the Rays, managing Derek Jeter throughout his brief minor league journey toward superstardom, shares the story about "The Rookie" Jim Morris and more.
In this episode, Hall of Fame Durham Bulls manager Charlie Montoyo joins THE Durham Bulls Podcast to discuss his career as Bulls manager from 2007-2014, which included a franchise-record 633 wins. Montoyo then was elevated to the Tampa Bay Rays, where he served as third base coach, then promoted to bench coach. In 2019, Montoyo was hired as the manager for the Toronto Blue Jays, where he served for 3 1/2 seasons. Currently, Montoyo is the bench coach under manager Pedro Grifol and the Chicago White Sox.
Montoyo relives memories of his time in Durham, his favorite memories of his two Governors Cup championships, special and amusing anecdotes about former players and his love of salsa music.
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...and sometimes it rains. Listen in to a very important Hit Bull Win Podcast as Scott and Patrick discuss the end of the season, Wool E.'s Winter Wonderland, and the future of the podcast.
Thank you to all who have listened and made this podcast so special through the years. It has always been such a huge source of joy to share stories of minor league baseball front office life with you. The podcast will always be around in some form or fashion, and we look forward to bringing you more stories and interviews. You are the best fans in the world. Thank you again!
-PN
There are only six games left in the season, and the mailbag had been piling up. Scott and Patrick decided to fix that.
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Scott and Patrick sit down with Bulls manager Michael Johns for the second time this year to discuss long homestands, trades, golf, The Hunger Games, and much more. Don't miss out, and enjoy!
A new department at the Durham Bulls front office graces the pod with its presence, as Patrick and Scott sit down with Senior & Special Projects Accountant Nick Bornhoft! Accounting is a huge back bone for the Bulls, and Nick explains why it might be a good bit more fun than you think. Thanks for listening, and enjoy!
Patrick and Scott were challenged by General Manager Tyler Parsons to discuss the 1991 classic action film Point Break. Listen here to relive a great popcorn flick with special guest and Social Media Manager Andrew Green. Enjoy!
Howdy! Scott and Patrick go over a wild Independence Day at the ballpark, discuss your voicemails, and wedding invitations. Enjoy!
The podcast is evolving and we're going to try something new! Listen to the pod to hear about that update, how the ABS system was installed, and a milestone achieved for the first time in 20 years for the Durham Bulls. Enjoy!
Unfortunately, Scott Strickland is absent. Fortunately, Patrick is surrounded by interesting people, like Director of Promotions Leslie Martin and Head Groundskeeper Cameron Brendle, who hop on to chat their work, fishing, Taylor Swift, and more. Enjoy!
Scott and Patrick sit down with new Bulls Manager Michael Johns to discuss Durham, golf, and spring training cooking. Enjoy!
It's a 50th episode celebration! Scott and Patrick discuss a successful Opening Weekend, and chat with Director of Merchandise and Bulls front office legend Bryan Wilson.
It's another mailbag episode! Scott and Patrick answer all your questions from Wool E. Bull's taco/burrito preference to their stress level headed into the season. Enjoy!
Assistant Director of Food and Beverage Todd Feneley joins Scott and Patrick to discuss Yoda Soda, golf carts, and everything in between. Plus, listen to hear how the new offices are working for the front office staff, and Scott's restaurant review kerfuffle.
Happy New(ish) Year! Hit Bull Win Podcast is back with another great episode as they interview new General Manager of the Durham Bulls, Tyler Parsons. Plus, an update on the renovation project, a holiday recap, and much more!
After three extraordinary years as Bulls manager, Brady Williams got the call up to the big leagues, as he will be departing Durham for his new gig, 3rd Base Coach for the Tampa Bay Rays!
Howdy! The Bulls are triumphant again and sit atop the mountain on the throne as the kings of Triple-A baseball. Listen here to hear a recap of Scott and Patrick's trip to Vegas, as well as a look ahead to the off-season.
Legendary Bull Durham Director Ron Shelton comes on the podcast to discuss his new book The Church of Baseball: The Making of Bull Durham: Home Runs, Bad Calls, Crazy Fights, Big Swings, and a Hit with Scott and Patrick! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The summer is halfway over and it is time for the All-Star break! Scott and Patrick discuss their favorite All-Star memories and stories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Patrick and Scott step away from the diamond for a few minutes to break down some film. No, not highlights, but Top Gun: Maverick. Enjoy this brief reprieve from baseball! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Guest co-host Paxton Rembis helps Patrick interrupt a coworker's vacation after a long 12-game homestand. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Director of Food and Beverage Dave Levey chats with Patrick and Scott to discuss hot dogs, concession stand evolutions, and running! Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Rays Senior Analyst and Hit Bull Win Podcast legend Mitch Lukevics rejoins the podcast to catch up with Scott and Patrick! Hear an insight on the evolution of Durham, why you want a big leaguer buying post-game dinners, and ballpark shenanigans. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
You asked and they answered! Scott and Patrick sit down to answer questions about our championship rings, the tarp, and Ji-Man Choi's deadly accuracy with a sucker!
Tickets: https://www.milb.com/durham/tickets/single-game-tickets
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Durham Bulls Manager Brady Williams sits down to discuss the season, his championship in 2021, cooking, reggae, shoes, and much more!
Get your tickets now: https://www.milb.com/durham/tickets/single-game-tickets
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Duke softball pitcher and Bulls Brand Ambassador Peyton St. George sits down with Patrick and Scott to discuss her journey to Durham, shoe painting, and the importance of mental health among student athletes. This is not one you're going to want to miss.
Follow the Bulls and Peyton St. George on social: @DurhamBulls @PeytonStGeorge (IG) @peytonst.george (TT)
Learn more about Morgan's Message: https://morgansmessage.org/
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Hosts Scott Strickland and Patrick Norwood sit down with Paxton Rembis to discuss the creative process, fishing, and more!
See us at a game! - https://www.milb.com/durham/tickets/single-game-tickets
Grab some gear! - https://durhambulls.milbstore.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Patrick is joined by Peter Wallace to discuss their top 5 baseball movies of all time. Scott tells a tale of his interactions with Kevin Costner and Ron Shelton. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Joe Stumpo has been an integral part of the Bulls organization for years. As the groundskeeper at the DAP, he has seen and heard a lot. Check this episode out to his stories, whether or he believes in ghosts at the ballpark, and why Scott doesn't make his bed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A time honored offseason event for the Durham Bulls, Wool E. Grams have stood as an institution in the community for over a decade. Get a behind the scenes look in this episode, as Scott and Patrick sit down with former Mascot and Community Relations Manager Nicholas Tennant to discuss the inner-workings of this tradition.
Get your loved one a Wool E. Gram today --> https://www.milb.com/durham/fans/wool-e-grams
Come work with us! --> https://www.milb.com/durham/ballpark/employment-opportunities
Get yourself some Bulls shirts! --> https://durhambulls.milbstore.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sorry for the delay folks, but your favorite minor league baseball podcast is back! Listen up for news on the lockout, the Durham Bulls Job fair, and updates on future podcasts!
Want to be a part of the team? Come by the Durham Bulls job fair January 29th, from 9am-1pm.
RSVP: http://jobs.headwayhospitality.com/bulls-job-fair-2022/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We're sharing a preview of a new podcast from WRAL Studios, hosted by Amanda Lamb. Follow the Truth tells the real story of the James Jordan murder and the man who says he didn't do it. Daniel Green has served nearly three decades in a North Carolina prison maintaining his innocence in the murder of Michael Jordan's father, James. This case is full of mystery, contradiction, and dogged by conspiracy theories. The ten-part series from WRAL Studios questions the evidence, scrutinizes the circumstances around the conviction and explores the possibilities of who else may have been responsible for James Jordan’s tragic death. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Durham Bulls Catcher Brett Sullivan joins the podcast to discuss promo night jerseys, bat flips, and the Mediterranean. It's a packed episode, so make sure you don't miss this one! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The time has come. Long time fans of Hit Bull Win Podcast have awaited this interview eagerly, and it is finally here. Brent Honeywell Jr. joins to discuss his journey, the city of Durham, and the day his truck was struck by lightning. If you'd like to watch this podcast, head on over to YouTube and search "Durham Bulls." Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome back Bulls fans! Scott is currently in the bubble, but nothing could keep him away from Hit Bull Win Podcast! Thank you for your patience. This episode is jam packed with topics like the MLB bubble, clubhouse personalities, and how Tim Duncan helped Scott Strickland meet his favorite professional wrestler. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Durham Bulls have released their schedule for the 2021 season! Now your hosts are answering your questions. Don't forget to also look on the Durham Bulls website for more details. Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Happy New Year! Hit Bull Win Podcast is excited to leave 2020 in the rearview. In this episode, Scott and Patrick interview Vice President of baseball operations Mike Birling, and he provides an update on the upcoming season. Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ever wondered how a special event is put on at the DBAP? Well now is your chance to find out. In this episode, Director of Special Events LaTosha Smith joins to discuss her path, her role, and so much more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ever wondered what goes on in the Ballpark Corner Store? Ever had an online order and wonder how it was processed and completed? Well this is the episode for you, as Scott and Patrick discuss merchandise, the creative process, and longboarding with Ashley Larson, Assistant Director of Merchandise. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Howdy folks! In this episode, your co-hosts interview Tampa Bay Rays Pitching Coach Kyle Snyder, and discuss the great events hosted at the DBAP. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Tampa Bay Rays have made it to baseball's biggest stage. Hear a preview from your favorite co-hosts and stay tuned for an event announcement at the end of the episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Podcast hosts Patrick Norwood and Scott Strickland sit down with Neil Solondz to discuss the Rays and Yankees American League Divisional Series playoff matchup. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
ESPN Play by play announcer Tom Hart joins host Scott Strickland to exchange stories from their Minor League Baseball experience, discuss Hart’s start in broadcasting and the impacts of remote broadcasts during the 2020 Major League Baseball season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Former Bulls radio play-by-play announcer Neil Solondz fills us in on how Spring Training 2.0 went. He talks with Durham Bulls Assistant GM Scott Strickland about the first weekend of Rays Baseball vs. the Toronto Blue Jays and what baseball fans can expect the rest of the season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A chat with the Bulls’ all-time hits and runs scored leader, Justin Ruggiano. Ruggiano discusses his accomplishments in Durham, his time with the Tampa Bay Rays, and what challenges current MLB players and teams will experience with the return of baseball. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Coach Pollard joins host Scott Strickland for a conversation about the day college baseball shut down, the current state of college baseball, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Former Durham Bull, and Durham resident, Elliot Johnson joins Scott Strickland for a conversation about his baseball playing career. From his high school days, 5 seasons in Durham, and 5 seasons in MLB, Johnson discusses stories from his playing career while highlighting the special 2008 Tampa Bay Rays World Series season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
ESPN major league baseball columnist, analyst, and Baseball Tonight daily podcast host Buster Olney joins Scott Strickland for a conversation about his storied career covering professional baseball. From growing up on a dairy farm in Vermont to covering the New York Yankees, Olney discusses stories from his career, the current plans for MLB to return to play, and the ongoing negotiations between MiLB and MLB. This conversation was recorded on May 22, 2020. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Well we asked, and boy did you respond! This is our first mailbag episode. Hear your hosts answer some great questions from you, the fans. Plus, hear about how you can watch Bulls games with some of your closest friends during quarantine! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
While the offseason took an unexpected turn, the Bulls family swiftly sprung into action and are still hard at work preparing for the upcoming season. Hear how the Bulls are handling the current situation, and find out how the Tampa Bay Rays are responding as well, with a special interview with Rays pre and post game host Neil Solondz! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Hit Bull Win Podcast is back with a new sound and a new look! Hear from a new host, catch up with Scott Strickland, and hear about the future of the podcast! Plus, special guest and VP of Baseball Operations Mike Birling stops by to chat about his favorite season, the new netting, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
One of the DBAP's best promotions? The Dancing Grounds Crew. Scott and Matt chat about why there's more to the Diamond Cutters than meets the eye, and look towards the team's playoff push as the season winds down. Plus they interview the team's Director of Retail/Team Travel Bryan Wilson, and Matt's modeling career also comes up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Matt and Scott discuss all things rain - how and why games don't get postponed, who makes the call and tarp team discrepancies. Plus, they sit down with the Bulls' Executive Chef Curtis Wong to find out what his job actually entails. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Scott and Matt talk about Stranger Things Night, and some of the difficulties that come with working on a project owned by a large corporation. They also have an extended interview with Bulls radio broadcaster Patrick Kinas, who chats about his different relationships with different managers, and how he got selected to broadcast two different Olympic games. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Matt and Scott try to find out what happened to the missing Blue Monster, and some of the suspects who could've taken it. They also interview the person behind Wool E. Bull, and find out what it's like to be one of the most well-known personalities in the Triangle. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In a shortened episode and with Scott on vacation, Matt brings in two other colleagues to recap an historic weekend at the DBAP, highlighted by rehab appearances from Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton. Note: interview requests with Judge and Stanton were - for some reason - not granted. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Matt and Scott talk about the movie Bull Durham, and how important the movie was in turning Durham into the hip city it is now, plus they discuss turkey burgers, no-hitter etiquette and Yankees All-Stars. They also interview Pat Phelan, the Bulls clubhouse manager, and chat about how he got his job and what keeps him going. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Scott and Matt discuss how and why they love what they do, including the perks of getting special ballpark food. Plus they debate whether or not they'd rather have free tickets or free concessions for life, and interview Bulls coach Quinton McCracken, who talks all things Duke, including playing football for Steve Spurrier. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Matt and Scott discuss the frustration and awkwardness of interacting with people who have no clue what lifestyle a member of a Minor League front office lives. Plus they debate whether or not Pittsburgh is an East Coast city, introduce a new "Would Your Rather" segment, and interview DBAP head groundskeeper Cameron Brendle and discuss what it's like to live at the stadium for a week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Matt and Scott chat about the ACC Baseball Championship now Scott has woken up from his nap. They also chat with Tampa Bay Rays 2018 Minor League Player of the Year Nate Lowe, debate whether or not Durham Bulls Athletic Park is in Downtown Durham, and talk about how good the Bulls are. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Matt and Scott recap the Bulls' chaotic eight-game homestand, including Education Day parking challenges and kids who eat too much cotton candy. Plus they chat with Rays Director of Minor League Operations Mitch Lukevics who gives an overview on his job, tells some George Steinbrenner stories and talks about how he's seen Durham change in the last 25 years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Matt and Scott talk about what it's like when the entire Bulls office shuts down to stuff 4,000 plastic Easter Eggs, and then distribute 4,000 plastic Easter Eggs throughout the DBAP outfield. Plus they're joined by Joey Mellows (@BaseballBrit), an Englishman who quit his job to attend 162 baseball games this season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Hosts Matt Sutor and Scott Strickland are joined by new Durham Bulls manager Brady Williams, and the pair talks about how pulling tarp sometimes earns you free biscuits. Follow the Bulls on Twitter Like the Bulls on Facebook Follow the Bulls on Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices