Sean and Eds Do Baseball

149 Don Wilson

Wed, 06 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

sean winds up and delivers a pitch with some late break to Eds with the story of Don Wilson. An elite pitcher for the early Astros teams; Wilson would etch his name into the record books - twice - and become an All-Star in Houston. Sadly, his story would end abruptly and tragically with more questions than answers.

148 Ping Bodie

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Eds gets on the bump and delivers a screwball of his own with the story of Italian baseball pioneer Ping Bodie. Born Francesco Stephano Pezzolo between the hills of San Francisco, Ping Bodie would make a name for himself in the independent and minor leagues of the west coast before rising to the big leagues. Bodie was known early on for his powerful swing but over time he became better known for his fowl play off the field.

147 Boots Poffenberger

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Sean throws a screwball with the tale of a wild, weird and wacky hurler, Cletus Poffenberger. Boots - as he wanted to be called - had a short but extremely eventful career making headlines on and off the field. He beat Hall of Famers on the bump but his undisciplined lifestyle and drunken antics cost him in the end.

146 Eddie Collins

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Eds throws a heater with the story of Hall of Fame second baseman Eddie Collins.
One of the most well educated men in baseball history Collins began his career in baseball witness protection but soon was spreading his astute knowledge on the base paths with anyone who would listen. This rubbed teammates the wrong way and made Eddie a clubhouse outcast in some cases; or maybe it was his strange superstitions. Whatever it was, Collins' habits allowed him to carve a special place for himself among the games greatest legends.

145 Sulphur Dell

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Sean spins one in with the story of a stadium and the start of organized baseball in Nashville. Sulphur Dell - first known as Athletic Park - hosted baseball games for nearly 100 years, including contested pennants, fan riots, and eventually some questionable yet interesting landscaping choices in right field. Tal's hill eat your heart out.

144 Martin Dihigo

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 00:01:00 -0500

Eds heads to the mound for his first outting of the season with the life story of Martin Dihigo. A Cuban superstar who many say was the greatest of his generation and the best player they ever saw at any position, and he played all of them. An eventual Hall of Famer, Dihigo earned his nickname El Immortal on both sides of the ball and eventually as a field general in the dugout, but unfortunately due to the circumstances of his day, his greatness for a while was lost in time.

143 Dave Brown

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 12:44:45 -0500

Sean goes to the bump for Opening Day 2026 and delivers a wild pitch with the story of Dave K. Brown. Brown was one of the best Left Handed Pitchers in the first professional Negro Leagues but after a celebration ended in a horrific crime, Dave Brown disappeared. Almost 100 years later he was found to have been hiding in plain sight.

142 Dick Higham

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 20:24:22 -0500

Sean throws a gem in our 2025 finale with the story of Dick Higham. A star player and manager in the 1870's that would graduate to be an umpire in the 1880's, but not for long. Higham would be accused of crookedness and was put on trial; facing the worst fate possible in baseball.

141 The White Brothers

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Eds toes the rubber with a doubleheader, 1870's style; with the life stories of James and Will White. Two brothers who not only bucked the trend by living clean lives in an era of debaucherous baseball stars but who also set the trend in numerous ways. Two of the earliest baseball stars on both sides of the ball the White Brothers left a lasting legacy upon the history of the game.

140 Rogelio "Roger" Moret

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Sean pitches a complete game - but then gets moved to the bullpen - with the story of Rogelio "Roger" Moret. Moret became a can't miss prospect with Boston but couldn't solidify his position in their rotation. His career would fade as fast as it rose and unfortunately he would be known more for an infamous moment in the Texas Rangers clubhouse than his pitching.

139 Hitless Wonders - The 1906 White Sox

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Eds is on the bump in the middle of the World Series and throws Sean a slider with the story of the 1906 Chicago White Sox who were the underdogs against the Cubs juggernaut in the first ever subway series Fall Classic. Player Manager Fielder Jones ran a tight ship and captained his squad to victory against the record setting North Siders despite his team having the lowest team batting average ever to make it to the big dance.

138 Willard Hershberger and the 1940 World Series

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Sean delivers a curveball as the Cincinnati Reds returned to the Fall Classic after losing in 1939 but this time they are playing for more than pride. They are playing to honour back-up catcher Willard Hershberger after tragedy struck the team mid-season.

137 Dave Dravecky

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Eds steps to the hill with a cutter; the inspiring life of Dave Dravecky. From humble beginnings in Youngstown, Ohio, Dravecky beat the odds and made it to the majors and became one of the big game pitchers of the 1980's. His inspirational career was tragically cut short at the end of the decade but that didn't stop him from continuing to serve a higher purpose beyond the diamond.

136 Pascual Perez

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Sean winds up and delivers the story of Pascual Perez, a slim, erratic pitcher who had one of the wildest careers in baseball history. Whether in the middle of brawls, pennant races or drug controversies, Pascual was a spark plug for his teams, just don’t ask him for a ride if you wanna get to the ball park on time.

135 Lou Novikoff

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 00:01:00 -0400

Eds steps to the mound to tell the life story of Lou Novikoff; one of the game's purest hitters. Born in the Arizona desert to Russian immigrants, Lou tore it up on the fast-pitch diamond and worked his way to the majors becoming one of the most feared flash in the pan hitters of his day. He wasn't a Hall of Famer in Cooperstown but all who saw him play couldn't deny that "The Mad Russian" certainly made baseball more fun.

32 One Million Little Pieces (of Candy)

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Due to some technical difficulties in the recording this week Sean and Eds are forced to revisit an episode from January of 2021.

Sean and Eds record remotely this time as the number of Covid-19 cases is on the rise. Sean listens through the power of the internet as Eds tells the tale of baseball's one millionth run scored, how 4 men had their chances to ink their name to the pages of oddball history and how the contest was decided by a foot race 2400 miles apart.

134 Howlin' Hilda

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 18:18:25 -0400

Sean tosses a curveball with the story of one of the first famous fans of the game; "Howlin'" Hilda Chester. Hilda lived a rough life but found solace in the bleachers of Ebbets Field screaming at her beloved Brooklyn Bums. Soon she was as big of a story as the Dodgers and became part of the team. That is until they broke her heart in 1957.

RE-RUN 47 Len Koenecke

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

As Sean and Eds enjoy the All Star Break we turn back the clock to July of 2021 when they welcomed friend and former high school baseball teammate Matt Marchese (host of The FAN Hockey show, former producer of Prime Time Sports at Sportsnet 590 The Fan & writer for Sportsnet) to the podcast as Eds stumbles upon another story; this time with a local twist. A tale from the nebulous depths of baseball history that tells how the meteoric rise of a man who shovelled his way to the major leagues from the train yards to the ball fields was ultimately stymied in a surprisingly spectacular fashion.

133 Silver King

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Eds steps back into the chalked box and throws a complete game with the life story of Silver King. One of the "speediest" pitchers of the late 19th century who had a chip on his shoulder and very few friends on or off the field. King had a strong start to his career but the games growth during its infancy ultimately caused Kings promising career to fizzle out quickly, not before he left his mark in baseball's record books though.

132 Dan McGann

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:01:00 -0400

Sean goes back to back with the tragic story of speedy first baseman Dennis "Dan" McGann. McGann was a star at the turn of the century who set records on the base paths, fought numerous opposing players as well as his former coach. Sadly, his family life off the field was marred by tragedy and he would be gone far too soon.

131 The '88 Hat Jays

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 00:01:00 -0400

Guest Liz McGuire does some baseball with Sean and Eds as Sean delivers a wild pitch about possibly the worst team in modern professional baseball history; the 1988 Medicine Hat Blue Jays. Their record setting losing season wasn't pretty in the box scores or the standings, it sure was a lot of fun though!

130 The Christie Pits Riot

Wed, 21 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Eds continues to deal as he finishes off the Christie Pits saga with the story of the 1933 riot that had been brewing on the streets of Toronto for years. The rise of anti-semitism in Hogtown and around the world catalyzed a six hour race riot between the Jewish youth of the city, their Italian neighbours and the Nazi punks that wished to see them banned from public spaces.

Special Thanks to Stephen Dame of SABR for anchoring most of the research for this story. Check out his article at sabr.org or the Fall 2023 editions of SABR's baseball research journal.

129 Christie Pits

Wed, 07 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Eds returns to the bump with the story of how Hog Town's famed Christie Pits came to be. A beautiful park in the heart of Toronto that hosted the city's early softball leagues soon became the site of an event that catalyzed one of the darkest moments in 20th century Canadian history.

128 The Fall of Van Lingle Mungo

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Sean keeps throwing and things get out of hand with Van Lingle Mungo.
An arm injury, boozing, trade rumours, adultery, and confrontations with his managers lead to the end of his tenure in Brooklyn; and eventually his career, but not before one of the wildest stories in baseball history.

127 The Rise of Van Lingle Mungo

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Sean pitches into extra innings starting with the origin and rise of Brooklyn Dodgers star Van Lingle Mungo. One of the best pitchers of the 1930’s, Mungo had the unfortunate luck of pitching in front of the Daffy Dodgers, never experiencing team success despite impressive underlying personal stats. A confrontational personality, drinking and finally an arm injury would seal his fate as a forgotten Dodger great.

126 Win or Else

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 00:01:00 -0400

Sean and Eds share the tools of ignorance this time and catch a story from special guest pitcher; Sports Reference Director of Design and SABR member Adam Darowski who steps to the mound with a spot start.

Adam tells the tale of a 1930's Dominican baseball league that was founded by a ruthless dictator who sought to ride the wave of baseball's popularity to both feed his obsession with power and win the hearts of his countrymen. He details the relatively unknown Latin superstars that made up the rosters and the defection of many American Negro League players brought in to play for more money, and to their surprise... their lives.

125 Alfredo Edmead

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Sean throws a change-up with some late break telling the tragic story of a much hyped Pirates prospect and the scout who promised to stay by his side. Edmead would prove to be everything the organization was hoping he'd be until a routine play in August changed baseball history.

124 Cecil Cooper

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Eds returns to the mound for another tale of Black History with the story of Cecil Cooper. A criminally underrated player who struggled to find a fit in Boston, Cooper was a humble first baseman who eventually found his niche in the small market of Milwaukee, becoming an integral part of one of the most potent line-ups of the 1980's, carving out a place in the Brewers record books and becoming one of the most respected men in baseball on and off the field.

123 Luke Easter

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Sean gets on the bump for his first start of 2025 and regales Eds with the story of Luke Easter. A hulking home run hitting, trailblazing black slugger and all around great guy. Easter had a late start to his pro baseball career but made up for it by lying about his age. He'd play until nearly the age of 50, positively impacting hundreds of fans and teammates along the way, before meeting a tragic end.

122 Jack Lohrke

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Eds comes from the windup and kicks high with the life story of the man who some consider to be the luckiest in baseball history; Jack Lohrke.
Born in the 20's, Lohrke lived into his 80's but not before becoming one of baseball's greatest cheaters, but not on the field or in his personal life. Jack Lohrke earned the nickname "Lucky" by cheating death.......seven times.

121 Billy Sunday

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Our 2024 Season Finale!
Sean's on the bump with the extra long story of William Ashley Sunday. After a rough childhood, Sunday's speed was enough to earn a spot on the Chicago White Stockings but he would leave after a short career yo serve a bigger purpose! Preaching the word of God like no one had ever seen before.

120 Phil Marchildon

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0500

The boys return to the battery after a short break with the life story of yet another fellow country man; this time it's Phil Marchildon.
In the spirit of Remembrance / Veteran's Day Eds toes the rubber and tells Sean about Phil's humble beginnings on the shores of Georgian Bay, his late start into baseball and his heroic venture to war, where he became a POW and suffered the effects that further curtailed a promising baseball career.

RE-RUN 26 Giants, Pilots, and Beers. Oh My!

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400

As the MLB season comes to a close and Sean spends time off with a growing family; the boys revisit an old episode from October of 2020 in which Eds tells Sean, and friend of the show Jean Poincelet about a wild offseason almost 50 years ago that nearly brought a struggling west coast franchise back across the continent and north of the border.

This is the story of a volatile era in baseball where expansion was quickly changing the landscape of Major League Baseball, and how one man's renegade actions started a chain of events that would ultimately bring to fruition the dream of another man north of the 49th parallel.

119 Tessie

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Sean goes from the windup to tell Eds the wild story of the first official World Series in 1903; as well as the legendary group of fans that helped turn the series in Boston's favour. 101 years later the song they sang would gain new life and Boston would once again win it all in October!

118 The 1969 Mets

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Eds throws a knuckler and continues an October tradition with a story from the MLB postseason, but he also continues a Sean and Eds Do Baseball tradition with a story of the Mets.
The Miracle Mets; the key cast members that made them and all the reasons that nickname was so apt. They weren't expected to do much of anything but a perfect chain of events helped the Mets go from mediocrity to might for one miraculous season.

117 Melissa Ludtke

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Sean throws a quality start with the story of baseball writer and journalist Melissa Ludtke. Her love of baseball lead her to write for Sports Illustrated but a confrontation with Bowie Kuhn during the 1977 World Series changed baseball for the better and set a precedent for women reporters everywhere.

https://www.melissaludtke.com/locker-room-talk

RE-RUN of 14 The CPL, Jesse Cole, and the Savannah Bananas from April 2020

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 12:00:00 -0400

In honour of Eds' vacation to Cooperstown we are re-running our early episode on The Savannah Bananas before they blew up to the point of having their own pop up display at the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

Sean digs into the relatively young story of the Coastal Plain League, a collegiate wood bat league with some colourful characters throughout its short history.

116 Arthur Lawrence "Bugs" Raymond

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Sean stands atop the hill and delivers a spitball with the short wild life and career of Arthur "Bugs" Raymond. One of the premier spitballers of his day Raymond's NY Giants Manager John McGraw would do all he could to keep his star pitcher sober but to no avail.

115 William "Bunk" Congalton

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Eds steps to the rubber with a fastball. The story of Guelph, Ontario's own William "Bunk" Congalton; who found his way into his local Sports Hall of Fame after a career gardening for a laundry list of colourfully named clubs, all before his untimely death at the Indians game, at the age of 62 or 59.

114 Moses Yellowhorse

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Sean winds up with a fastball to tell the story of hard throwing pitcher Moses Yellowhorse. From the Pawnee Nation; Yellowhorse's arm caught the attention of baseball's elite and brought him to the big leagues at a young age. Despite a strong arm and cheers from the Pittsburgh faithful dedicated specifically to young Moses, his career would be very short but very eventful.

113 The Only Nolan

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Eds heads to the mound with a short outing; telling the story of fellow countryman, The Only Nolan. Born Edward Sylvester Nolan, in Trenton, Canada, Nolan gained what turned out to be one of the most ironic nicknames in baseball history. He stumbled into the major leagues and wouldn't stay long as he could never stray far from controversy.

112 Frenchy Bordagaray

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Sean twirls a strong outing with the story of Stanley "Frenchy" Bordagaray - who was Basque! Bordagaray made headlines; mostly off the field with his goofy antics and stunts which created some major consternation for his manager Casey Stengel.

111 Richie Ashburn

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Eds hits the corner with a heater as he blazes through the life story of Hall of Fame Phillie and Broadcasting Legend Don Richie Whitey Ashburn. A story inspired by one fateful afternoon of "Putt-Putt's" career that surely beat the odds.

110 Joe Sprinz' "Catch"

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 00:01:00 -0400

Sean goes up and in with the story of Joe Sprinz and his attempted record setting catch that on his birthday no less, ended in disaster at the San Francisco World's Fair!

109 Randy Bass

Wed, 22 May 2024 00:01:00 -0400

Eds throws a curveball in a fastball count and brings an old player back onto the roster with a more in depth covering of the life of Randy Bass; the NPB's first American superstar, who due to some poor foresight by his club was railroaded out of town in the most despicable of circumstances. Listen to how those circumstances left a sour taste in the mouth of the Tigers legend and how they created an awful dilemma for the Hanshin GM.

108 Shotgun Rogers and Johnny Dodge

Wed, 08 May 2024 00:01:00 -0400

Sean winds up for back to back starts with the tale of two friends brought together by baseball and connected forever by one tragic day on the diamond.

107 James "Pud" Galvin

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 00:01:00 -0400

Sean throws a strike with the story of James "Pud" Galvin; a small but mighty pitcher and MLB's first 300 game winner. Galvin's career would be overshadowed by other stars of the 1880's but a revelation from the early 2000's would embroil him in a modern scandal.

106 Benny Meyer

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 00:01:00 -0400

Eds returns to the mound with the story of Benny Meyer, a man that Babe Ruth called “the noisiest coacher in either league," who as a young man was given an ultimatum by his father that set him on a path toward a life of baseball.

105 Wild Bill Hagy

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 00:01:00 -0400

Sean's on the bump with the story of Wild Bill Hagy. One of the original Superfans who led a section of rowdy fans in the bleachers of Baltimore in the late 1970's. Wild Bill's cheers and dancing made him famous before a falling out with the team led to his arrest. His story even inspired an early episode of the Simpsons.

104 The Cheesesteak Challenge

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 00:01:00 -0400

Eds throws a curveball on his way out of town and tells Sean the story of how a veteran ballplayer in the twilight of his career inadvertently started an underground competition by consuming an ungodly number of Philadelphia Cheesesteak sandwiches while riding the bench one weekend; and how since that day a few MLB personnel have gone to great lengths to claim the crown for themselves.

103 Oil Can Boyd

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 00:07:00 -0500

Sean brings some heat with the story of Dennis "Oil Can" Boyd and his journey through the big leagues and beyond. Known for being a polarizing figure we dig into the racism and horrific experiences that made The Can who he is!

102 Wendell Smith

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 00:07:00 -0500

Eds makes his first start of the 2024 season with a changeup as he tells the life story of Wendell Smith. Smith was integral to the breaking of baseball's colour barrier in the modern era. Inspired to a life of activism by an unfair rejection by the Tigers as a teen, Smith's actions and awareness of societal conditions paved the way for Jackie Robinson and all those who would follow.

"Puddin' Pie" credited to United Artists and Wendell Smith Jr. (1959)

101 The KBO

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 00:07:00 -0500

We begin our season just like the MLB, with a trip to Korea!
Sean goes to the hill for opening day 2024 and delivers the bloody origin story of the KBO (Korean Baseball Organization) along with the anti-democratic authoritarian leader who wanted to use baseball to placate the South Korean people.

100 Doc Powers

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 12:07:00 -0500

On the momentous occasion of 100 episodes Sean toes the rubber as Eds and returning alumni and good friends Spencer Levon (pianotuners.ca / FACEPLANT) and Jean Poincelet (Stray Rebel Bullet) strap on the tools of ignorance to hear the story of Michael "Doc" Powers; a man whose defensive prowess as a catcher and his skills as a physician allowed him to have a long career in the majors as a back up catcher. However for some reason the Doctor ignored his own health issues causing him to enter the history books incorrectly as the first man to die from injuries he sustained on a baseball field.

99 Ron LeFlore

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 12:07:00 -0500

Eds works from inside to outside on the hill as he tells Sean the life story of Ron LeFlore, who by sheer natural talent and a bit of luck managed to make it to the big leagues even though he'd never even played a game of baseball until he landed on the fields of Michigan's Jackson State Prison.

98 WE’RE OUT! - The ’99 Umpire Resignations

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 12:07:00 -0400

Sean delivers a gem as he tells Eds about the time that all the umps quit. Back in 1999 the umpires in both the National and American Leagues were frustrated enough that they dared to test the MLB brass by resigning en masse to force contract negotiations. The plan would backfire as the union crumbled; costing 22 umps their jobs.

97 Magic Mets in the 99 NLCS

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 20:21:32 -0400

Eds goes high and outside with the story of the 1999 Mets and their rollercoaster ride to the postseason. Bobby Valentine led a squad of ghosts on a magical revenge tour through October but they would run out of aces against a bitter rival in a most unfortunate fashion.

96 Go Mets: The World Series Skydive

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 12:07:00 -0400

Sean goes up in the zone and tells Eds about the 1986 World Series and the man who took it upon himself to give his team a boost when they needed it the most - even if it meant breaking a lot of laws and endangering some lives.

RE-RUN 55 Charley Pride

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 12:07:00 -0400

In honour of Eds' absence in Nashville Tennessee, it's only fitting that we present a re-run of our 55th episode on Hall of Famer and former baseball superstar Charley Pride.

Sean tells Eds the story of Black trailblazer Charley Pride. Pride grew up in the cotton fields of Mississippi and was inspired by Jackie Robinson to pursue baseball and to become a Hall of Famer. Pride succeeded and became a superstar with hits around the world; just not on the ball diamond.

95 Win Mercer and the ”Ladie’s Day Riot”

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 12:07:00 -0400

Sean spins a curveball, telling Eds about the life and tragic death of George 'Win' Mercer who was one of the best pitchers of the 1890's. On top of that he was a two-way player and a handsome one at that; becoming a fan favourite with the ladies of Washington whose admiration for the young hurler birthed a famous baseball legend.

94 Coaker Triplett

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 17:24:01 -0400

As the season winds down Eds steps to the rubber and delivers a story inspired by recent events, with the tale of Coaker Triplett, who spent a lifetime on the fringes of major league baseball. A quad-A player who tore the cover off the ball and cemented his name into the history books with one explosive week that would go unmatched for another 85 years.

93 Black Saturday in Philadelphia

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 12:07:00 -0400

On the 120th anniversary Sean throws Eds the story of baseball's deadliest day; August 8th, 1903. During a two game double header between the Boston Beaneaters and the home Phillies, an incident outside the stadium would create a chain reaction of events that ended with a dozen tragically killed and hundreds more injured.

92 Alston’s Death Row All Stars

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 12:07:00 -0400

With a very special guest in Blake Murphy; Sportsnet Personality and Host of Blue Jays Talk Plus, 10am to 12pm EST and after every Jays game on Sportsnet FAN590, Eds takes to the mound and delivers a performance that goes into extras, as he tells the story of an early 20th-century squad born within the walls of a Wyoming State Prison, and the reason that area politicians kept a very watchful eye.

91 Sam Crane (the murdering one)

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 12:07:00 -0400

Sean throws a strike with the story of Sam Crane.
A glove first shortstop who kept getting chance after chance to stick in the big leagues. Even after Crane committed a heinous crime, one of baseball's elite continued to go to bat for him.

90 Baseball’s Union Association with Justin McKinney

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 12:07:00 -0400

In celebration of 90 episodes (the toilet paper anniversary) Sean and Eds put their feet up and welcome award winning author and SABR member Justin McKinney to the show for a highly anticipated spot start. Justin takes to the mound and delivers a short summary of his book; "Baseball's Union Association: The Short, Strange Life of a 19th-Century Major League."
(winner of SABR's 2023 Baseball Research Award.)

In just one season the Union Association came and went, had some serious trials and tribulations, and a colourful cast of characters; its a wonder they made it one full season at all, and thankfully Justin is here to tell us most of the story.

89 Charlie Faust

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 12:07:00 -0400

Eds returns to the bump with a story of a man whose biographer described him as "the least athletic person apart from Eddie Gaedel to play in the major leagues." Charlie grew up seemingly destined to work the land under the watchful eyes of his younger brothers back home in Kansas, but a trip to the county fair would change not only Charlie's life, but spur the Giants to one of their greatest stretches in team history.

88 Rinku Singh

Wed, 31 May 2023 12:07:00 -0400

Sean toes the rubber and delivers a changeup with some late break, as he tells the story of Rinku Singh. A former Olympic hopeful in javelin, Singh gives up everything to enter a baseball throwing competition, even though he had never even seen a baseball game before. Singh's life would change and he would end up in the big leagues- but not for baseball.

87 Abbott and Costello

Wed, 17 May 2023 12:07:00 -0400

Eds returns to toe the rubber with the story of two great entertainers. He begins with the life of Bud Abbott who quit school and joined the family business, following in his father's footsteps through the Northeastern Burlesque wheels, where he would meet his greatest match in Lou Costello; together they would take the entertainment by storm but not without some stormy days of their own. Nonetheless the two men gifted us with one of the greatest comedic bits the world (not just the baseball world) has ever seen.

86 Gus Weyhing

Wed, 03 May 2023 12:07:00 -0400

Sean winds up and tosses a wild one with the life of Gus Weyhing. Gus was not just wild on the mound- setting the MLB record for hit batsmen- but also off the field with numerous arrests and mischieveous moments throughout the pitcher's life.

85 Brandon Martin

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 12:07:00 -0400

Returning to the bump after back to back outings by Sean, Eds tells a story that is part sports documentary part true crime with the story of Brandon Martin. The former first round pick of the Tampa Bay Rays whose inner demons, which had been brushed aside in the name of his career, quickly began to re-surface after becoming one of the organization's highly touted prospects.

Big Thanks to : This is MONSTERS - season 3 episode 4 (YouTube)
Nathan Fenno - LA Times - Nov19/2020 & April 28/2017

84 Eiji Sawamura

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 12:07:00 -0400

Inspired by the WBC; Sean takes the mound again and delivers the story of Eiji Sawamura. A teenage pitching phenom who got the opportunity to face the best of the best at the young age of 17. Sawamura's career and life would be cut short but he made such an impact that the yearly award for the best pitcher in Japan still bears his name to this day.

83 Jeffrey Loria and The Expos

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 12:07:00 -0400

Sean gives Eds a "Balle Courbe" with the story of Jeffrey Loria's early years in baseball and his tumultuous time as owner of the Montreal Expos. Loria would only own the team a few years but his time there left a deep scar in the hearts of Montreal baseball fans and ignited conspiracies about the commissioner's intentions.

82 Waconah Park and Foul Ball

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 17:08:49 -0500

Eds takes the mound once again with a story about "The Bulldog" Jim Bouton and more specifically about Waconah Park. Bouton who "never did anything half way" took it upon himself and some of his friends to fight city hall in order to save an historic landmark in his adopted hometown of Pittsfield.

81 Dobie Moore

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 12:07:00 -0500

Sean winds up and delivers a bit of a screwball detailing the extremely talented Dobie Moore. Arguably the best shortstop to ever play the game; Sean and Eds are joined by guest Andrew Stoeten to discuss Moore's meteoric rise on the field and his sudden violent descent off it.

80 Dan Bankhead

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 17:16:35 -0500

In celebration of Black History Month; Eds heads to the mound and delivers the story of Dan Bankhead, a man born into the coal country of Alabama during the Jim Crow era who despite setting an historical milestone and cementing his name into the book of legends not once but twice in the same day; is sadly often lost in the lore of baseball history.

79 Donkey Baseball

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 12:07:00 -0500

On the 2023 Premiere featuring Shawn Smith! (@junk_baller)
Sean delivers a trick pitch in his first outing of 2023 as he tells Eds and Shawn as much as he can about the incredible history of Donkey Baseball - a real thing.

RE-RUN 19 Lenny Randle

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 12:07:00 -0500

In a re-run episode from June 24th 2020; Sean brings Eds a new player profile that is sure to be as entertaining as Lenny Randle himself. Tune in for the story of a man of many hats, a jack of all trades, and an advocate for baseballs growth on the Italian west coast. Its sure to 'blow' you away.

RE-RUN 13 Jimmy Piersall

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 12:07:00 -0500

In a re-run episode from April 1st 2020; Eds pulls the sting and changes things up at the last minute with the telling of the life story of misunderstood outfielder Jimmy Piersall. One of the most talented fielders in his day, his playful demeanour caused him some trouble that ultimately kept his worst demons at bay.....for the most part.

78 John ”Bonesetter” Reese

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 12:07:00 -0500

Sean throws a fastball with the tale of John D. Reese; a pioneer in sports medicine. A man who earned the moniker of bonesetter by helping to heal and resurrect the baseball careers of dozens of players.

77 Superstitions

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 12:07:00 -0500

A tale as old as time. Since the inception of the game of baseball players have taken measures to get the upper hand on their competition both physically and mentally; but were not talking about performance enhancing drugs or meditation. Eds steps to the bump with some odd stories of baseball superstitions throughout the years and narrows things down to one particular player whose strange quirks attracted some good natured ribbing from his teammates.

76 Hank Thompson

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 20:02:14 -0500

Sean throws a great outing in the second of back to back appearances as he tells the story of Hank Thompson. A trailblazer for black baseball, a World Series hero, a war veteran and (eventually) a reformed criminal. Thompson's life was tragically cut short but full of experiences beyond many's imagination.

75 The 1925 World Series

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 12:07:00 -0400

On the cusp of the "Fall Classic", Sean winds up and delivers a gem with the story of the 1925 World Series. The weather wreaks havoc as the young upstart Pittsburgh Pirates go head to head with the reigning World Series champion Washington Senators and their veteran Ace.

74 Merkle’s Boner

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 12:07:00 -0400

Eds toes the rubber for back to back outings and starts off Postseason month with the story of 1908's controversial pennant race between the Pirates, Giants, and Cubs, and of the bonehead play that unceremoniously and undeservedly cemented poor Fred Merkle into the annals of oddball baseball history.

73 The Cobbs

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 17:57:30 -0400

A story adjacent to one of the all time greats, Eds toes the rubber and pitches Sean an often forgotten or possibly swept under the rug tale of Ty Cobb's family history, and also of a man who may have exploited the fact that after his death, the great Cobb could no longer defend himself.

72 Gabby Street’s Monumental Catch

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 17:37:54 -0400

Sean spins one down the middle with the life of Charles "Gabby" Street.
Street had a fairly underwhelming career as an understudy back-stop but one day in 1908 he made a huge catch - just not on the diamond.

71 David Clyde

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 12:07:00 -0400

Sean delivers a heater with the story of the Rangers relocation and the high school phenom who saved the franchise at the cost of his own career.

70 Mal Fichman

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 12:07:00 -0400

Eds returns from Vietnam and eases back into things with a bit of a bullpen session as he tells Sean the story of Minor League Master of disguise Mal Fichman; who rose from humble beginnings as a manager of independent clubs to oddball baseball history fame for getting tossed from a game in the 80's and the scheme he carried out in pursuit of victory.

69 Eric Show: Part Two

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 12:07:00 -0400

Sean makes a quality start and goes from the stretch with part two of the tale recounting the life Eric Show. Later in his career Show continues to shove on the mound but still struggles to deal with his past and his performance. After a terrible brawl in Chicago and a nagging back injury things quickly go awry and thusly downhill in a hurry.

68 Eric Show: Part One

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 12:07:00 -0400

In Part One of back to back outings Sean takes the mound and tells the story of Eric Show's abusive upbringing and his rise from motorcycle riding rebel to born again Christian Ace of the San Diego Padres. His actions weren't without controversy and we learn about the origins of a conspiratorial right wing group that got Eric Show into hot water.

67 John Bender

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 12:07:00 -0400

Eds toes the rubber and tells Sean the story of John Bender, a man who was much less famous but infinitely more infamous than his hall of famer brother Charles. Early on in his career John showed promise just like his brother but an altercation on a steamboat ultimately turned the tide for the troubled batsman.

66 Pearce Chiles

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 12:07:00 -0400

Pearce Chiles was not a good person! In fact he is probably a person we should have long forgotten had he not played a role in baseball's first electronic sign stealing scandal.

65 Moe Berg

Wed, 18 May 2022 17:33:27 -0400

Eds heads back out to the hill and pours one in; and for the first time it's one that Sean has heard of before but not with such insight into the life of Morris, possibly Moses Berg. A man who not only managed to hang on in the majors for an extra ten years because of one day that changed the course of his career, but also a man whose later exploits changed the course of history altogether.

64 The Chalmers Race

Wed, 04 May 2022 12:07:00 -0400

Sean holds the rosin bag in this episode and tell Eds of the 1910 season. America watched as two future Hall of Famers duked it out for the batting title and more importantly; for the keys to a brand new Chalmers Model 30 Automobile. This trailblazing idea should have been an innocent promotion but instead it turned into one of baseball's biggest scandals.

63 Rock n Roll Softball: Eagles vs Rolling Stone

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 12:07:00 -0400

This time its Levon, Sean and Eds Do Baseball as friend of the show, multi-talented musician and baseball fan Spencer Levon joins the fold to do some baseball. Eds tells the tale of the Eagles and their friendly however feisty relationship with Rolling Stone magazine that resulted in the greatest ego driven matchup Los Angeles would ever see.

Accompanying playlist for Spotify Listeners:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1xmnirSch4g6PA2uzOvgMo?si=2930c1afb9884035

62 Charlie Sweeney

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 12:07:00 -0400

It's Sean, Shawn, and Eds Do Baseball with baseball writer and history major; Shawn Smith. Sean brings the heat with the tale of the highly talented and regularly drunk Charlie Sweeney. In a short career Sweeney would set records good and bad but once his career ended, that is when things truly got out of hand.

61 Ugly Dickshot

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 12:07:00 -0400

Sean delivers a changeup with the tale of Johnny "Ugly" Dickshot who was know as the most homely man in 1930's baseball. The moniker stemmed from a horrible childhood incident that left his head disfigured. A true AAAA player of his time, Dickshot crushed minor league pitching but continuously struggled to stick in the bigs. So why do we care? His name was Ugly Dickshot!

60 Phil Niekro’s Milestone

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 12:07:00 -0500

Eds tells Sean the story of the long and legendary career of a man they called Knucksie, and the ironic circumstances he chose to compete in for the milestone that would surely secure him a place in the Hall of Fame. From the humble family beginnings in what is now Poland to the coal mines of West Virginia the Niekro brothers carried on a family tradition that would lead them both to lengthy and successful careers in the Major Leagues and one to the Halls of Cooperstown.

59 Gus Greenlee

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 12:07:00 -0500

Sean toes the rubber and delivers our longest episode yet about the life of Gus Greenlee. Greenlee was many things; a war veteran, a booze runner, a numbers man, a community banker, a businessman, a philanthropist and owner of the Pittsburgh Crawfords.

58 John Donaldson

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 17:58:47 -0500

In celebration of Black History Month, Eds toes the rubber for the first time in 2022 and pitches Sean the story of John Donaldson; a man whose humble beginnings on the banks of the Missouri River taught him the particular set of skills he would need to become arguably the best and inarguably the most influential pitcher in Negro League History.

57 Chief Noc A Homa

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 12:07:00 -0500

As the Cleveland Guardian unveil their new on field caps for next season in a move away from decades of cultural appropriation Sean goes back to back in the opening frame of 2022 and tells Eds the history behind the Braves' politically incorrect mascot; Chief Noc A Homa and the man who stepped up to give the caricature some true authenticity.

56 The Mage

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 12:07:00 -0500

Sean leads off 2022 with a round tripper through the hilariously violent career of Minor League catcher and more famously; National League umpire George Magerkurth

RE-RUN 2 Bill James and the 1914 Boston Braves

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 12:07:00 -0500

As Sean and Eds take a well deserved break until next fortnight tune in to a classic RE-RUN episode of Sean and Eds Do Baseball from JANUARY 7th 2019.

Sean tells Eds the story of Bill James, but not that Bill James and the incredible comeback of the 1914 Boston Braves who were grossly under-estimated by Cornelius McGillicuddy and the Athletics.

RE-RUN 10 Mamie ”Peanut” Johnson

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 21:35:00 -0500

As Sean and Eds take a well deserved break for the month of December, tune in to a classic RE-RUN episode of Sean and Eds Do Baseball from February 19th 2020.

Sean and Eds welcome a guest to the studio for the first time to share in the doing of baseball. listen in as Sean tells the story of Mamie Johnson, a scrappy young lady who silenced a lot of doubters on her way to the professional ranks.

Selected Reading:

A Strong Right Arm: The Story of Mamie Peanut Johnson by Michelle Y. Green

RE-RUN 5 The Harmonica Incident

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 12:07:00 -0500

As Sean and Eds take a well deserved break for the month of December, tune in to a classic RE-RUN episode of Sean and Eds Do Baseball from JANUARY 27th 2019.

Yogi Berra hung up his cleats in 1964 and took over for Ralph Houk at the helm of the New York Yankees but not without great scrutiny from the unforgiving New York media. When things looked their worst for the Bronx Bombers a strange altercation between a rookie manager and a young infielder seemed to galvanize the clubhouse. However from the outside looking in, it appeared as though Yogi had lost all control; and it may not have happened at all if not for one shit disturbing superstar.

55 Charley Pride

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 12:07:00 -0500

Sean tells Eds the story of Black trailblazer Charley Pride. Pride grew up in the cotton fields of Mississippi and was inspired by Jackie Robinson to pursue baseball and to become a Hall of Famer. Pride succeeded and became a superstar with hits around the world; just not on the ball diamond.

54 Albert G. Spalding 2: The National Myth

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 12:07:00 -0500

Eds finally tells Sean the tale of show nemesis Albert Goodwill Spalding and his retirement days outside of baseball, where he continued to use his power and influence on the game. Spalding "[forsook] baseball for mysticism" with a new old bride and joined a California cult but he just couldn't stay away from the game and Eds sends Sean into existential crisis when he begins to poke holes in baseball's origin story.

53 Charlie Leibrandt

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 17:49:15 -0400

With the World Series now upon us for 2021 Eds steps into the box with his own story from the postseason. This time he tells Sean the story of Charlie Leibrandt and his woes in the playoffs. One of the most successful pitchers to never make an All Star roster and who never was made an Opening Day starter, Charlie was continuously hung out to dry when all trust was thrust upon him.

52 The1918 World Series

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 12:07:00 -0400

The Boston Red Sox and Chicago Cubs go head to head against each other and the owners as well during the 1918 World Series. An absolutely wild and overlooked story of the Fall Classic that ended a tumultuous and shortened season for baseball as World War 1 and The Spanish Flu interrupted America's favourite pastime.

Xtra Innings 2 - Sept 29th: This Day In Baseball History

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 12:07:00 -0400

In another Xtra Innings episode Sean tries something a little different and travels forward to the past with history facts from the randomly selected years the Eds plucks from his own brain. Tune in for a short and sweet swing through the years.

51 The Curse of Colonel Sanders

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 12:07:00 -0400

Eds goes back to back but not with the story that Sean expects as they travel across the Pacific to Japan for a short but sweet episode in which we are introduced to the NPB's lovable losers the Hanshin Tigers; and the unusual curse that has plagued them for nearly 40 years.

50 Albert G. Spalding

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 12:07:00 -0400

Eds allegedly brings the heat for the 50th episode of Sean and Eds Do Baseball as he begins to tell the story of a great and enduring baseball myth. He tells Sean of the early touring days of baseball clubs in the 1860's, and recounts the career of famed pitcher and villain Albert G. Spalding whose post-career ambitions ultimately shaped the history of the game itself.

49 The Bean Brawls

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 12:07:00 -0400

Sean tells Eds the story of one particular game that eventually became known as The Bean Brawls. On August 12th 1984 the San Diego Padres played the Atlanta Braves in a game that would go down in baseball history; for all the wrong reasons.

48 Hiram Bithorn

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 16:47:10 -0400

Another episode with special guest and old friend - Producer/Host/Writer at Sportsnet 590 - Matt Marchese. This time Sean tells the tale of the first Puerto Rican to play Major League Baseball - Hiram Bithorn. A hugely important and groundbreaking story from baseball history that sadly ends in tragedy.

46 Cliff Carroll

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 12:07:00 -0400

Sean gets back in the box with a story for Eds that touches base with several previous episodes of Sean and Eds Do Baseball. Cliff Carroll, close friend and fellow saloon master to Old Hoss Radbourn was a man whose antics off the field landed him in some hot water and his play on it may or may not have been responsible for the continuous debate around small ball.

45 Climax Blethen

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 12:07:00 -0400

Eds returns to the mic to tell Sean a tale that rivals his account of Oyster Burns, but not because this man was an abrasive human being and not because he had a peculiar nickname. In a story plucked from relative obscurity, Eds recounts the rather pedestrian career of Clarence "Climax" Blethen; a pitcher who left Maine for a 20 year career in the minor leagues. He had a few cups of coffee in the big leagues that amounted to not much but he bit into history with a single play in 1933.

44 Ruth Law: Legend of the Grapefruit League

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 12:07:00 -0400

Sean goes back to back and tells Eds about one of the wildest practical jokes in the history of the game. The story revolves around Ruth Law; a trailblazing pilot who set records and risked her life advancing flying technology but most importantly - to us at least - took part in a stunt that changed baseball history.

43 Oyster Burns

Wed, 26 May 2021 12:07:00 -0400

In this episode Sean goes way back to tell Eds the story of one of the most feared power hitters of the 1890’s and by all accounts one of the biggest loudmouths to ever play the game. Tom ‘Oyster’ Burns was a pitcher, a hitter, a leader and an idiot. His reputation may have shortened his career and his actions one day in 1893 almost cost a teammate his life (or at least his leg).

42 Bill Veeck Pt2

Wed, 12 May 2021 12:07:00 -0400

Eds continues with Part 2 of his telling of the tale of a man who baseball tried but ultimately failed to ostracize, Bill Veeck. We pick up the story again as Bill realizes his defeat in St Louis and attempts to leave town with the Browns, but the baseball establishment let Veeck know their true feelings for him when they forced him to part with his team. But he knew of no other life and he would be "back beneath the arc lights" before too long in his sweet home Chicago where not even another brush with death could keep him out of the owners box.

41 Bill Veeck Pt 1

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 12:07:00 -0400

Eds tells Sean part 1 of 2 to the tale of the man who was one of the few people in the world of baseball who could hold a candle the eccentricity of Charles Finley. William Louis Veeck Jr. was destined for a life in baseball spending his early days working the concession stands of Wrigley Field, and then the next 6 decades in and out of the owners boxes of 4 different franchise at 5 separate times. In that time Veeck set attendance records across the league, changed the world of baseball promotion, and in the end was ostracized for it.

40 Ugueth Urbina

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 12:07:00 -0400

Sean tells Ed’s the story of All-Star closer Ugueth ‘Uggie’ Urbina. From his time as a rising prospect with the Expos to a World Series champion, Uggie was an elite pitcher. But after the highs came the lows. A story that goes off the track quickly and involves guns, kidnapping, torture and of course, baseball.

39 Jim Bouton

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 12:07:00 -0400

Eds turns over a new leaf with this tale and despite Sean's disbelief announces a new found soft spot for Yankee pinstripes. And it's all because of one man's courage to speak his mind and stick to his guns despite an attempted gagging by the baseball establishment. In the first of a likely series of episodes Eds tells Sean about the working class hero Jim Bouton, and the Bulldog attitude that kept him in the sports fan's psyche long after he left the mound.

38 The San Diego Chicken

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 12:07:00 -0400

In this episode Sean goes outside the foul line (or should we say fowl line) as he regales Eds with the story of Ted Giannoulas. A man who as fate would have it ended up dressed as a chicken and became the unofficial mascot of the San Diego Padres. Transforming mascots and sports entertainment as we know it.

37 Stanley Kirk Burrell

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 12:07:00 -0500

In a short but sweet episode Eds tell Sean the tale of a young man that rose through the ranks of the Oakland A's front office starting at the tender age of 9, and whose baseball connections helped him become a household name.

36 Emmet Ashford

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 12:07:00 -0500

Sean tells the tale of another trailblazing umpire, and for the first time Eds sees it coming. In an episode which came so close that it actually crossed path's with the previous story, Sean shares the life of Emmett Ashford, a tenacious man who dug in against the adversity of the day and remained true to himself despite the resistance to his energetic style to take the American League by storm.

35 Bob Motley

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 12:07:00 -0500

Eds gets back on track with a story for Sean about a man of great baseball ambitions and who wouldn't take no for an answer. Bob Motley escaped the perilous grip of discrimination in the Jim Crow South and found himself on the battlefields of Japan where a mishap took him surprisingly (or unsurprisingly) to a place behind the battery and cemented into history forever.

34 All American Girls Pt2 - The Post-War Years

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 12:07:00 -0500

Sean carries on telling Eds the exciting conclusion to the tale of the All American Girls Professional Baseball League. Listen up to hear more about the hardships faced by the brave women of the league, their booming success through the post war years, and their eventual descent into relative obscurity, but most importantly how their time together on the diamond inspired them to make better lives for themselves.

33 All American Girls - The War Years

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 12:07:00 -0500

Tune in as Sean tells the true story behind The All American Girls Professional Baseball League - most well known from the classic baseball movie "A League of Their Own.” It's the tale of an America on the brink of war. A time when women were forced to take on the task thought to be impossible at the time, replacing the men- at home, at work, and even on the ball field. Listen in to hear about the ludicrous rules imposed on these talented women, who despite some ill conceived notions of the patriarchy, rose to the occasion and entertained the masses.

31 Chick Stahl

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 12:07:00 -0500

Sean switches things up at the last minute and has to tell the story of Chick Stahl, one of baseball's forgotten greats who seemingly at the height of success suddenly fell from grace in one of the most terrible ways imaginable. What surprised many at the time, should have been seen all along.

30 Lyman Bostock

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 12:07:00 -0500

Eds goes back to back once again from the fortified fortress of the Alliston studios to tell Sean the tale of a humble man who rose up against early criticism to become one of baseball's most highly touted prospects and sought after free agents, but ultimately whose generous nature brought him to the wrong place at the wrong time.

29 World Series 1904: Johnson vs McGraw

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 12:07:00 -0500

Eds gets back in the box with the story of the World Series' early days. The Series as we know it today was agreed upon in 1903, but not by Ban Johnson and John McGraw. Two of baseball's most powerful men at the time who were stern adversaries cost the fans of the game the fall classic in 1904 because of, well, reasons I guess. Tune In

28 Apes in The Outfield

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 12:07:00 -0500

Sean and Eds record remotely from the woods in McKellar, Ontario. Sean goes back to back once again with a story from recent baseball history. A story that tells how a rag tag team came together to give a fanbase a glimpse of glory for the first time in nearly two decades. Who then regressed slightly, but then were galvanized in surprising fashion, enough to beat the Giants and an otherworldly performance by Barry Bonds, who none could argue could've still won World Series MVP in a losing effort.

27 Charles Finley

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 12:07:00 -0400

We said we'd do it and it's finally here. Listen up as Sean tells the ridiculous history that is the life of Charles Finley. A man who's renegade departure from Kansas City left a ripple effect across the major leagues, his building of a dynasty despite his hard headed ways that would derail a less lucky man. Tune In Now.

Extra Innings 1 : The Chivalry of Rube Waddell

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 12:07:00 -0400

Sean and Eds were short on studio time this week but still bring you an addendum story to illustrate the strange priorities of the famously eccentric Rube Waddell on a wild night of dancing with the famous Toronto born shortstop Arthur Irwin.

25 Hankus Pankus

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 12:07:00 -0400

Eds recounts the life and times of Hammerin Hank Greenberg, the Tigers Superstar Slugger who led Detroit to two World Series. In 1938 Greenberg chased Babe Ruth's home run record all summer long and saw a large spike in walk rate late in the season. Historic rumours allege anti-semitism and some statistical data can point to that conclusion however, some data also proves that correlation may not always equal causation.

24 Major League

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 12:07:00 -0400

Sean gets creative himself in this episode and veers off the base line, surprising Eds with some behind the scenes tales from the set of one of his favourite movies; Major League. Tune in for the stories that may have inspired the film's premise, how the actors were cast, who could actually play, and who may have crossed the foul lines.

23 Hot Dogs

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 12:07:00 -0400

Eds switches it up and surprises Sean with a story from culinary history that exists on the fringes of baseball. Listen up to hear the history of the famous ballpark tubular meat treat and where its okay to call it a frank and where to call it a wiener.

22 Arthur Irwin

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 12:07:00 -0400

Sean tells Eds the story of local Toronto shortstop Arthur Irwin and his crazy life through the game of baseball, from his days as a player to an accomplished scout. Always a controversial figure, dark secrets of Irwin's life came to light after his questionable death.

21 John Montgomery Ward and The Brotherhood War Part 2

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 12:07:00 -0400

Listen up for the conclusion of the John M. Ward and his Players League Saga. You've heard all of the drama leading up to the seasons Opening Day. Now tune in to hear Eds tell Sean how the conflicting schedules affected the competing Leagues and how a little bit of deception goes a long way.

Once again the majority of this research came from an excellent essay by Ethan Lewis entitled "A Structure To Last Forever":The Players' League And The Brotherhood War of 1890. Please check it out below.
http://www.ethanlewis.org/pl/ch1.html

20 John Montgomery Ward and The Brotherhood War

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 12:07:00 -0400

Eds answers back with the first part of his own Back 2 Back Episode Jack. Sean listens in to the story of John Montgomery Ward and his leadership through the formation of the Players League. A circuit meant to compete directly with the National League and to raise the status of players from mere employees to entrepreneurs.

The majority of this research came from an excellent essay by Ethan Lewis entitled "A Structure To Last Forever":The Players' League And The Brotherhood War of 1890. Please check it out below.
http://www.ethanlewis.org/pl/ch1.html

19 Lenny Randle

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 12:07:00 -0400

Sean goes back to back and brings Eds a new player profile that is sure to be as entertaining as Lenny Randle himself. Tune in for the story of a man of many hats, a jack of all trades, and an advocate for baseballs growth on the Italian west coast. Its sure to 'blow' you away.

18 Brien Taylor

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 12:07:00 -0400

Sean tells Eds the story of Brien Taylor. The young prospect who was quick to rise up the list of names on the clipboards of Yankee scouts in the early 90's. Taylor was drafted with much pomp and circumstance, and could be thought of as a missing cast member of the late 90's Yankee dynasty. Listen in to find why Eds, and a lot of fans outside of New York have never heard of this 1st overall pick.

17 Harvey Haddix and The Greatest Game Ever Pitched

Wed, 27 May 2020 12:07:00 -0400

Sean and Eds stay 6 feet apart and Eds tells Sean of the greatest pitching performance in the history of baseball. Unmatched to this day, and basically invisible within the MLB record books, Eds attempts to give more credit where credit is due.

16 Terrible Tim Hurst

Wed, 13 May 2020 12:07:00 -0400

Sean and Eds welcome dear friend Maxx into the studio to hear another story from the 1890's. However, in a change up from the typical player profiles they have done Sean tells the origins of umpiring in baseball, and focuses on a man who one could consider a frontiersman behind the backstops.

15 Big Ed Delahanty and The Baseball Project

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 12:07:00 -0400

Sean and Eds welcome their good friend JP to the show all the way from the West Coast on a conference call to the bullpen. Eds throws the old Uncle Charlie and tackles two subjects in one great story that not only explores the catalog of a band as skilled in storytelling as the game itself, but one that also takes an interesting look at one of baseball's sadly misremembered stars.

13 Jimmy Piersall

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 12:07:00 -0400

Eds pulls the sting and changes things up at the last minute and tells the life story of misunderstood outfielder Jimmy Piersall. One of the most talented fielders in his day, his playful demeanour caused him some trouble that ultimately kept his worst demons at bay.....for the most part.

12 The Baseball Rule: Death at The Diamond

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 12:07:00 -0400

To shine light on something taking place in the game this season (we hope) Sean tells Eds a collection of stories about some unlucky fans, lawsuits, and a century long battle over safety. TUNE IN NOW!

11 Charles Radbourn

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 12:07:00 -0500

Listen in as Eds tells Sean another story from the 19th century. One of the craftiest men to ever take the mound and surly as hell. Charles Radbourn would go on to set MLB records, impossible to match today, and be the first to be captured flipping the bird.

10 Mamie "Peanut" Johnson

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 13:07:00 -0500

Sean and Eds welcome a guest to the studio for the first time to share in the doing of baseball. listen in as Sean tells the story of Mamie Johnson, a scrappy young lady who silenced a lot of doubters on her way to the professional ranks.

Selected Reading:

A Strong Right Arm: The Story of Mamie Peanut Johnson by Michelle Y. Green

9 Marty Bergen

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 12:00:00 -0500

Eds tells the tale of Marty Bergen, a gifted catcher from the early days of Major League Baseball who may have gone down as one of the greats if he could've gotten the proper help to escape his demons.

8 Doug Ault

Wed, 29 Jan 2020 17:15:59 -0500

On #BellLetsTalk Day, tune in as Sean tells Eds the tragic tale of Blue Jays fans' first hero, Doug Ault.

7 Tom Yawkey

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 16:43:41 -0500

Tune In as Sean tells Eds the tale of Boston owner Tom Yawkey and how the Red Sox were the last MLB team to integrate.

6 Cool Papa Bell

Mon, 18 Feb 2019 19:21:20 -0500

Tune in as Eds tells Sean the story of Cool Papa Bell. The only man ever to claim superiority over the speed of light, and be right.

5 The Harmonica Incident

Sun, 27 Jan 2019 00:38:02 -0500

Listen in as Eds tells Sean the tale of a tiff between Yankee infielder Phil Linz and skipper Yogi Berra which became known as the Harmonica Incident.

1 The Billy Goat Curse

Mon, 07 Jan 2019 23:38:45 -0500

Listen in as Eds tells Sean the now famous story of the Chicago Cubs' nearly unbreakable Billy Goat Curse. The ultimate display of pettiness that broke the hearts of North Chicagoans for over half a century.

2 Bill James and the 1914 Boston Braves

Mon, 07 Jan 2019 23:32:29 -0500

Listen in as Sean tells Eds the incredible story of Bill James and the 1914 comeback of the Boston Braves.

4 The Tale of Eddie Waitkus

Mon, 07 Jan 2019 23:21:31 -0500

Listen to Sean tells Eds a familiar tale. Eddie Waitkus was a naturally skilled ballplayer who transcended the status of celebrity and paid a price for it. Tune in the hear his story right now!

Corrections: Eds incorrectly refers to the false name as Brown when it is in fact Burns

3 Ray Chapman

Sun, 23 Dec 2018 00:07:17 -0500

Eds tells Sean the tale of Ray Chapman, the beloved Cleveland shortstop whose contributions on and off the field changed the game of baseball forever.