Hold My Cutter

Send us a text

What happens when you combine cigars, sports broadcasting, and one of the freshest faces in the industry? In this episode, we have the pleasure of welcoming Hannah Mears, the National League's Rookie of the Year in sports reporting, who shares her whirlwind journey into the world of hockey coverage with the Pittsburgh Penguins. With our producer away, we navigate the hilarities of taking over recording duties and Hannah's surprising expertise with the Latrobe Bazooka cigar. Hannah opens up about the supportive community within sports broadcasting, highlighting the importance of preparation and staying authentic amidst the spontaneity and chaos of live reporting.
We dive into the artistry behind broadcasting perfection and the delicate balance of embracing mistakes to connect genuinely with audiences. From meticulously planned opens to spontaneous, human moments, our conversation uncovers the varied styles of broadcasters and the role past experiences play in shaping dynamic storytelling. Hannah candidly discusses how social media impacts personal branding, offering insights into creating a professional identity while staying true to oneself, even when facing criticism in the digital age. With humor and personal anecdotes, we reveal the resilience needed to thrive in the fast-paced world of sports broadcasting.
Our exploration doesn't stop there; we celebrate the camaraderie and trust essential between on-air talent and producers. Hannah shares her experiences of building respect and relationships within a traditionally male-dominated space, emphasizing patience and persistence. We touch on the nuances of communicating with athletes and the importance of empathy, understanding, and authenticity in sports journalism. Closing on a lighter note, we honor Hannah's vibrant legacy with her podcast "Beers with Mirrors," and indulge in visions of pirate-themed antics on the field. Join us for an episode filled with laughter, gratitude, and a celebratory "Go Bucs!" as we toast to sports broadcasting and the inspiring journey of Hannah Mears.

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!!!!
www.holdmycutter.com

Send us a text

What if the pursuit of more powerful pitches is actually harming pitchers' careers? Join us as we tackle the ongoing dilemma of rising pitcher injuries in Major League Baseball. We'll guide you through the latest MLB report that highlights the role of increased velocity and the relentless quest for strikeouts as culprits behind the surge in injuries. Despite advancements in technology and health practices, the inability to curb this trend calls for a deeper analysis of player development. We reflect on how the focus has shifted, raising critical questions about the future of the game.
Listen in as we weigh in on the age-old debate between traditional wisdom and modern training techniques in arm care. Legendary pitchers like Nolan Ryan thrived without major surgeries, sparking intriguing comparisons to today's injury-laden players. By exploring how current training methods might restrict natural adaptation, we consider whether pitchers should be allowed to push their boundaries to cultivate long, healthy careers. We discuss the potential impacts of stringent inning limits and early injuries on young players, emphasizing the balance needed between technological advancements and time-honored practices.
Finally, we're diving into the world of minor league development, examining the challenges young athletes face as they transition to the majors. With insights from experts like Kyle Boddy from Driveline, we uncover the disparity between minor and major league experiences and how the trend of protecting prospects might affect their readiness. Reflecting on personal experiences, we highlight the importance of resilience and practical experience in overcoming physical thresholds. Along the way, expect some light-hearted moments as we engage with these complex dynamics and share the growth journey of our podcast.
ARTICLE REFERENCE:
https://metsmerizedonline.com/arms-in-danger-finds-mlb-report/

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!!!!
www.holdmycutter.com

Send us a text

Ever wondered how the worlds of baseball and cigars blend seamlessly? Join us for a fascinating conversation with Noah Hiles, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's beat writer for the Pirates, as he recounts his colorful journey from a fervent young fan to a respected sports journalist. Nestled in the ambiance of Burn by Rocky Patel, mere steps away from PNC Park, we reflect on cherished baseball traditions and the deep bond between sports and family. Noah shares his insights on the evolution of the game, with a nod to the growing popularity of versatile players like Jerry Triolo and the honor of being part of the Gold Glove award discussion.
Our episode dives into the art of storytelling in sports journalism, emphasizing the power of human interest stories. Noah captivates us with tales of high school sports legends like Russell Schell and Maya Cochran, whose stories of personal growth and resilience transcend the field. From running alongside athletes to capture authentic narratives to reconnecting with life-changing sports heroes, Noah's experiences underscore the profound impact of thorough and empathetic journalism. These stories aren't merely about sports; they reveal the heart and grit behind the headlines.
We also tackle the evolving landscape of sports and sports reporting, from managing pitcher workloads to navigating the relationship between college and professional sports coverage. With anecdotes about memorable interactions with players and the intricacies of journalistic integrity, Noah offers valuable insights into the balance between immediate success and long-term player development. This episode promises an engaging blend of passion, storytelling, and professional wisdom, offering a unique perspective on the world of sports communication. Join us for these enlightening conversations, filled with humor and heart, that bring the world of sports journalism to life.

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!!!!
www.holdmycutter.com

Send us a text

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be the voice of a baseball stadium? Join us as we sit down with the charismatic Tim Debacco former public address announcer and master organist for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Tim takes us on a journey through his unique career, sharing how he went from a budding young musician to stepping into the shoes of the legendary Vince Lashide. Listen in as Tim recounts the amusing tales of life behind the scenes, including a particularly cheeky organ tune played during Bobby Bonilla’s return to Pittsburgh that had the whole stadium buzzing.
Take a trip down memory lane as we switch gears to the world of vinyl records and pop culture nostalgia. Growing up with a dad who was an early YouTuber in spirit, I found my passion for music in the family’s rich collection of vinyl. We savor the tactile joy of spinning records and contrast it with today’s digital streaming convenience. Plus, hear about the playful nod to pop culture with a humorous suggestion about being a "Swifty," and discover why "I Think I Love You" by the Partridge Family holds a special place in my heart.
To wrap things up, we dive into the nostalgia of collecting, from the iconic radio stories of Casey Kasem to rare Pittsburgh edition TV Guides. Celebrate the simple joys of classic TV shows, radio jingles, and vintage board games like Stratomatic Baseball. We even share a few laughs over a mishap with a Chuck Berry concert that went hilariously off-script. This episode promises a warm, entertaining tribute to the enduring charm of sports, music, and the joy of collecting cherished memories.

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!!!!
www.holdmycutter.com

Send us a text

Steve Blass, the celebrated Pirate Hall of Famer, takes us back to his unforgettable journey during the 1971 World Series in this episode. He shares the exhilarating experience of pitching two complete games, turning the series in favor of the Pirates, and overcoming the immense pressure despite earlier struggles in the National League Championship Series against the Giants. You'll hear firsthand how Steve navigated the transition from regular season to postseason play and delivered a phenomenal three-hitter game. We also explore the historic significance of the first night game in World Series history and Bruce Keeson's key contributions.
Reflecting on the pivotal moments of the NLCS, Steve speaks on the unwavering trust and belief from manager Danny Murtaugh, which played a crucial role in his improved performance during the World Series. This conversation is a powerful reminder of how managerial support and personal resilience can transform a player's game, showcasing the importance of care and trust in achieving success. Steve also recounts the memorable duels with pitchers like Gaylord Perry and the critical role played by the bullpen, especially Dave Justy's efforts.
In a heartfelt segment, Steve recounts his cherished memories with Roberto Clemente, the MVP, and the camaraderie they shared in the clubhouse. From their serendipitous friendship to the emotional moments following Clemente's tragic death, Steve's reflections offer a poignant look at the bonds formed on and off the field. This episode captures the essence of loyalty, friendship, and the incredible journey of a small-town boy from Connecticut to a baseball legend, leaving listeners with an inspiring tale of perseverance and dedication to the sport.

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!!!!
www.holdmycutter.com