For Love of the Game

In this episode we are joined by Grayson Knight, the energetic host of the Baseball Podcasts Are Fun podcast. Grayson talks about his summer trip to Cooperstown Dreamspark and the Baseball Hall of Fame, along with some of his favorite baseball moments of all time. We also dive into his show, some of his favorite guests (including interviewing his favorite player Brett Phillips!) and things he's learned along the way. After listening to this one, I'm sure you'll walk away thinking the same thing - BASEBALL IS FUN! You can follow along with Grayson baseball adventures on Instagram: @Baseball Podcasts Are Fun and watch his full interviews on YouTube.

In this episode we are joined by Luke Epplin, author of “Our Team: The Epic Story of Four Men and the World Series That Changed Baseball”. We discuss Luke's early days of fandom, growing up in rural Illinois, listening to Cardinals games on his dad's portable radio, being called by the voices of legends Jack Buck and Mike Shannon. He also discuss some of his favorite ballpark moments, including being witness to Mark McGuire's 61st home run in 1998. We then take a deep dive into his book, “Our Team”. Listeners will learn about Luke's research process, some of the fun conversations he had while writing, and get an in depth look at the lives of Larry Doby, Bill Veeck, Satchel Paige and Bob Feller. I'm certain you will enjoy Luke's storytelling in this episode just as much as his fantastic writing style!

In this episode we are joined by Dylan Drummey; creator and author for The Drummey Angle, a site where the conventional baseball fan can expand their understanding of the game, along with the new statistics teams are using to shape this new era of baseball. Dylan discusses why he started the Drummey Angle and how he values players with newer statistics. We take a look at some of the highest paid players in today's game and see if they're truly living up to their mega contracts. You can find Dylan and his team on Instagram @TheDrummeyAngle and at their website: https://www.thedrummeyangle.com

In this episode we are joined by my dad's former battery mate, Mr. Craig Stapleton. Craig discusses the origins of his love affair with the Dodgers and relives some of his favorite moments behind the dish. We also talk about his catching mentor's playing career, which just so happens to be his mom, Mickey Watts, who will be the first female athlete inducted into the New York State Baseball Hall of Fame in August.

Since it is Tuesday of Masters Week, Dan and I found it fitting to talk about the Masters Champions Dinner. We dive into DJ's menu and past menus served up by previous champions. We make our own dinner selections and also take a deeper look into some of the more intriguing story lines of the week ahead.... We'll be back with a recap after Sunday's round to see whose predictions hold up and see who will be crowned, the next Masters Champion... So until then, enjoy The Masters!

In this episode we are joined by guest host Dan Tunison for a Springtime at The Masters podcast special. We’ll talk about all the feels that Masters week brings, along with some of our favorite memories from attending Saturday’s round in 2019. We place our Masters Fantasy picks and give some great advice for first time attendees. Tune in the next few days as we prepare for one of the greatest sporting traditions of all time.

In this episode we learn how today’s guest, Andy Strasberg, became known as Roger Maris’s most faithful and loyal fan. A fanhood filled with incredible moments that seem to be scripted right out of a Hollywood movie. We also discuss Andy’s 22 year career with the San Diego Padres, where he hatched creative ideas like the infamous San Diego Chicken. We finish it off by learning about his experience as a Technical Consultant for the movie 61* (which depicts the epic 1961 home run chase involving Mickey Mantle & Roger Maris) and what it was like working with film director, and avid Yankee fan, Billy Crystal.

On this episode we are joined by former big league shortstop and two-time World Series Champion, Greg Gagne. Greg reminisces about playing wiffle ball in the backyard and collecting baseball cards as a kid. He also talks about what it was like to be drafted by the Yankees his senior year, and being sent to Paintsville, KY just two days after winning a state championship. We discuss the minor league grind, being introduced to Christ and how that impacted his life. We then get into some of his favorite MLB memories, including getting the go-ahead hit in Game 7 of the 1987 Fall Classic (a championship run which Bert Blyleven predicted the year prior) and a few highlights from the Minnesota Twins second championship in 1991. After listening to this conversation, you’ll understand why Greg remains a fan favorite to this day.

In this episode we are joined by Rene LeRoux, Executive Director of the New York State Baseball Hall of Fame. We get a behind the scenes look at everything that goes into an Induction Night and learn about some of his favorite induction speeches of all time - From side splitting remarks by Howie Rose to a tear jerking tribute by Andy Van Slyke - Rene also tells us about his extensive collection of baseball movies and unloads some great New York State baseball history, a few stories I’m sure you’ve never heard before. If you’d like to listen to any past NYSBHOF inductee speech, just go to www.nysbhof.com

In this episode we are joined by 96 year old, World War II veteran, retired Petty Officer Second Class, U.S. Navy, Mr. Burke Waldron. Burke takes us back to his childhood in Utah, where he reminisces about playing in the sandlots with a stitched up ball of yarn and gathering with his friends at his dad’s barbershop to listen to Yankees games. Burke also talks about his 3 year deployment in the U.S. Navy and describes what it was like to take part in the invasion of Saipan, which would turn out to be a life changing moment for him. We then flash forward a few years and learn about his world famous first pitch at a Seattle Mariners game that would eventually earn him his own Topps Baseball Card. And make sure you stick around until the end so you don’t miss out on Burke’s parting words of wisdom ...A one of a kind interview with one extraordinary individual. This interview was made possible by the folks at the Puget Sound Honor Flight Network. The Honor Flight Network is a non-profit organization created solely to honor America’s veterans for all their sacrifices. They transport our heroes to Washington, D.C. to visit and reflect at their memorials built in their honor. Burke details his trip he took back in 2014 and what that meant to him. I would highly recommend checking out their website: http://pugetsoundhonorflight.org/ to see how you can support their mission or get involved.

On this episode we are joined by lifelong baseball enthusiast, former VP of Marketing and Sales for the Seattle Mariners, Mr. Bill Knudsen. Bill takes us on a baseball journey, starting with his childhood where he watched the Seattle Rainers play and followed the great Ted Williams. We then find out how he found his way to the Mariners front office and unpacks a treasure trove of great stories from his 7+ years with the team. You’ll hear about everything from impactful community projects, landing six-figure sponsorship deals, a seat cushion promo night gone horribly wrong, an impromptu visit from former Vice President Bush and a sensational story involving George Brett and the infamous Morgana the Kissing Bandit. If you’re a true baseball fan, you’ll really enjoy this episode.

On this episode we are joined by Ethan Bryan, author of the new book, “A Year of Playing Catch: What a Simple Daily Experiment Taught Me about Life”. We start it all off in the spring of 1979, reminiscing about Ethan’s baseball roots and his first game, which happened to be a 16 inning contest where Royals great George Brett hit for the cycle. He also relives a once in a lifetime experience getting to celebrate the Royals 2015 World Series championship at the White House. We discover how a chance encounter at a coffee shop led to his writing career and how he hasn’t looked back since. We then dive into his year long journey of playing catch. We learn what the driving force behind his mission was, how he stayed motivated to see it through, and he shares some of his favorite experiences and friends made along the way. A fantastic conversation about baseball as much as it is about life.

On this episode we are joined by the inventor of Big League Chew Bubble Gum, Mr. Rob Nelson. Rob takes us on a trip down memory lane, starting with his “Norman Rockwell-esque” childhood growing up on Long Island. We learn about some of his favorite players, like Whitey Ford and Bob Gibson and how he got to compete for the 1964 Senior Little League World Series in front of 12,000 fans. We also get an inside look at his playing days with the Portland Mavericks and learn how the concept for Big League Chew all started. It’s an amazing story with humbled beginnings. And if you stick around until the end, you’ll find out the secret to winning every future bubble gum blowing competition you’ll ever have.

Bringing all of her energy to this episode is my former coworker and good friend Kat Sokirka. Kat talks about growing up learning the game from her dad and taking road trips to watch her older brother play ball at Bucknell. We chat about our favorite concession stand snacks, all-time great baseball movies and we get into some really fun stories from our time together at the Scranton Wilkes-Barre RailRiders... including a funny encounter with Brian Cashman. She also drops some Christy Mathewson knowledge, so make sure you stick around until the end.

On this episode we are joined by one of my former teammates Mr. Brian Eshleman. We talk about some of Brian’s favorite memories growing up as a Pirates fan. From getting Trevor Hoffman’s autograph to meeting Pittsburgh Pirates great Many Sanguillen. We also reminisce about our college days and the time when Esh’s worst nightmare came true (not just once, but twice).

In this episode we are joined by one of my longtime friends and battery mate, Mr. Pete McDonnell. Pete and I go way back, reminiscing about those summer days playing wiffle ball in the side yard, living the dream in Cooperstown and winning 5 Championships together. Pete also shares some of his favorite ballpark moments, including meeting his childhood idol, Derek Jeter. We also draft the ultimate dynasty roster for MVP Baseball 2005 (one of the greatest baseball games ever made).

This episode features filmmaker, writer, entrepreneur and founder of the Play Catch Movement, Rhett Grametbauer. Rhett relives the glory days of Texas Longhorns baseball in the 80s and talks about family vacations to the iconic Astrodome. We also discuss his 4-month long football journey (where he saw all 32 teams and every NFL stadium), which spurred him to create the Play Catch Movement. You’ll learn about some of the interesting and positive benefits of playing catch, for people of all ages. Enjoy the episode and then get out there and play catch! Also, make sure to follow the Play Catch Movement campaign on Instagram and Twitter @playcatch2 and if you have an interesting catch story of your own, or want to get involved, visit: https://www.playcatchmovement.org

On this episode we are joined by one of the elite pitchers in Misercordia Baseball history, Mr. Matthew Karabin. We talk about some of his favorite college ball moments, and what it was like to excel as both a starter and reliever. We also learn why Misercordia no longer has dog piles after championships and I also throw in a “would you rather” segment. Matt also constructs the perfect pitcher and puts together his personal, top 5 starting pitching rotation.

In this episode we are joined by sportswriter, author and baseball enthusiast, Mr. Gary Kaschak. We discuss some of his favorite memories growing up on the sandlots of Binghamton, NY and learn why he wrote the book, “My Name Was Mickey Mantle”. Gary also shares his Field of Dreams like moment he had at Doubleday Field in Cooperstown, and even drops some baseball knowledge about the 1899 Louisville Colonels. If you love the history of the game, you will love this episode.

In this episode we are joined by my big brother, Dan Tunison. We reminisce about some of our favorite baseball memories, from Yankee games to championship teams in Little League, all the way to college ball. Dan also shares what it was like competing at the D1 level and what it’s now like for him to share his love of the game with his two sons. We also unveil a new segment, “Like it, Love it, or Shove it”, which is sure to be a fan favorite.

In this episode we are joined by former big leaguer and current Special Assistant to the GM for the Cincinnati Reds, Mr. John Morris. We’ll talk about what it was like growing up on Long Island and watching the Miracle Mets play, and discuss a few special moments from his 12 seasons playing professional baseball. We cover everything from playing in the Cape Cod League, being drafted, facing Nolan Ryan, playing in the World Series and everything in between.

In this episode we are joined by baseball enthusiast Ross Baver. A lifelong Phillies fan, Ross has been witness to some pretty wild moments, from Game 2 of the NLCS in 2008 to a 6 hour, 16 inning walk-off thriller against the Dodgers. He also shares his unique experience of growing up listening to all of the games on his transistor radio (which turned out to be one of the best Christmas gifts ever). We’ll also pick our top 3 MLB Wiffle Ball teammates and discuss the greatest fictional baseball characters of all time.

In this episode we are joined by Nokona Ballgloves Executive Vice President, Mr. Rob Storey. We discuss everything from the origins of the company to the manufacturing methods that they use today. We also talk about some of his favorite baseball memories, including meeting Nolan Ryan and even a trip to the White House. ******************************************** Company History (taken from the company website www.nokona.com) Since 1934, in Nocona, Texas, premium ball gloves have been handcrafted by skilled American workers, using the world’s highest quality leathers. Many of these people have dedicated their lives to producing the finest baseball and softball gloves, so that each glove can be used with confidence and pride. Nokona gloves are individually cut, stamped, stitched, laced, and embroidered, which gives each one its own unique identity and feel. Today, Nokona is focused on the future, applying many of the same principles that have guided our past - quality, craftsmanship, innovation, integrity, and a commitment to our employees, suppliers, customers and our country. We continue to put classic American workmanship into every glove, using techniques developed over the past 85+ years.

On this episode we are joined by one of my former teammates, coaches and current defensive coach in the Los Angeles Angels system, Dylan Mazzo. We’ll discuss some of our favorite college moments, dig into the grind of coaching and also get into some “hot” takes that I’m sure will be debated for years to come.

On this episode we are joined by the President of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, Mr. Bob Kendrick. Bob discusses the origins of his relationship with baseball and how his knowledge and appreciation of the game has grown since becoming one of its biggest ambassadors. You’ll learn about some of the greatest athletes the baseball diamond has ever seen, along with the many hardships these ball players faced, and how they overcame obstacles simply by their love of the game. So many amazing stories about perseverance and triumph. A great example of true American Spirit.

In this episode we are joined by one of my former teammates and college mentors Max Weintraub. We’ll talk about how the baseball program at Misericordia went from good to great, how Max overcame injuries to play an integral role in the 2013 Championship run, and we also unveil a brand new segment: Question of the Day.

In this episode we’re joined by my former coworker and good friend Kerry Meyers. We’ll talk about some of Kerry’s favorite college ball moments and throw it back to the Pittsburgh Pirates greats. You’ll also get a glimpse into some of the fun anddd not so fun moments of working a Minor League Baseball season.

On this episode we are joined by Angelo Kelly, creator of the Better than Yesterday podcast. Angelo and I discuss his rollercoaster of a baseball journey. We’ll talk about how he became the batboy for the Phillies, his interactions with a few famous big league sluggers, and what it was like to compete against one another in college... and one not so fond memory from Indy Ball.

If you’ve been to PNC Field in Scranton, PA over the last 13 seasons, you’ve definitely seen today’s guest running around the ballpark, providing you with the best on-field entertainment in Minor League Baseball. Some of you might know him as Barry, but most of you probably recognize him as B-Ray. We’ll talk about Barry’s introduction to the game and how he became a Braves fan during the height of their run in the 90s. We’ll also discuss some crazy promotions and fun memories over his 13 seasons working for the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre franchise.

In this episode we’re joined by my former battery mate, Mr. Alfonso Reda. Al spent 4 seasons at Misercordia University and continues pursuing his dream, playing professionally in the Atlantic League. He shares some fun experiences from Indy Ball and some interesting insights from his time in the Italian Baseball League.

On this episode we are joined by one of my former colleagues, Victor Sweet. Vic and I spent 4 seasons in Minor League Baseball, working together for the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. We discuss some of our favorite playoff games in the Bronx, to never ending homestands in Scranton, PA.

On this episode we are joined by the biggest Mets fan I know, Mr. Anthony LoBello. We’ll dive into some of our favorite moments at Shea Stadium, Little League dreams and college ball - rain delay shenanigans. And we’ll even throw some Mets trivia as well.

In this episode we are joined by Kyle Lindsay, the current all-time hits leader in Misericordia Baseball history. We talk about what it was like growing up as a Phillies fan watching Chase Utley and how that affected his approach to the game. We reminisce about our playing days and what it was like to make the transition from college player to full time coach.

Lefty specialist and all around good guy, Dillon Del Rosso joins the show. We discuss some epic moments in Derek Jeter’s career, along with a few from our own playing days. From grueling workouts, to favorite college eats, it can all be heard here.

If you can bear with us through the laughter, there actually is some great baseball conversation taking place: from some controversial statements, to legendary greats and current favorites.

Today we’ll learn about Ronald Reagan’s radio career and how he became the voice of Chicago Cubs baseball throughout the American midwest back in the 30’s. We’ll hear a few wonderfully written excerpts from Bob Spitz’s newest biography, “Reagan - An American Journey”,

In this episode we’ll hear from my good friend Garrett Pelko. We talk about why he will be forever known as “Recruit” and discuss some of his favorite memories, including meeting Pedro Martinez to his all time favorite Backyard Baseball Roster. A trip down memory lane you won’t want to miss.

On this episode we’ll hear from the future Mrs. Tunison; my greatest catch of all time. We’ll talk about how baseball ultimately brought us together, some of Kelly’s biggest hits, and a few of our favorite baseball memories from over the past 7 years.

Miles grew up in the heart of Twin Country, just a short bike ride from the Metrodome. Listen in as we discuss some of his favorite baseball memories, including how he got his favorite players autograph, to watching playoff baseball in the Bronx, and everything in between.

Joining us on this episode, is Coach T. Otherwise known as Tom Tunison, or to me, Dad. We discuss our shared love of the game, along with a few of his favorite memories, from his first time at Yankee Stadium, to watching his three sons play ball.

Episode 1 features my former teammate, roommate and good friend, Chris Boroch. We talk about how he became a lifelong Philadelphia Phillies fan and how he used to emulate Jimmy Rollins in his backyard. We’ll also hear a few of Chris’s favorite moments from his time playing in high school and in college.