E25: From Lovable Losers to Champions: Cleon Jones' Mets Journey

09/03/24 • 12 min

This episode was recorded live at the East Coast National Card Show and features a conversation with New York Mets Hall of Famer Cleon Jones. Cleon shares candid insights from his remarkable career, from the Mets' early struggles to their miraculous 1969 World Series victory. Tune in to hear fascinating stories about legendary figures like Casey Stengel and Gil Hodges, and gain a player's perspective on the transformation of the Mets from "lovable losers" to world champions.

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E24: Diamond Evolution: Denny McLain Charts Baseball's Shifting Landscape

In this episode of the Erik Sherman Show, recorded remotely from Cooperstown, New York, Erik sits down with baseball legend Denny McLain. McLain, the last pitcher to win 30 games in a season, reflects on his incredible 1968 season where he won both the Cy Young Award and MVP. He also discusses the challenges of achieving such a feat in today's game, shares his thoughts on recent rule changes in baseball, and recounts how the 1968 Detroit Tigers helped unite a city torn by riots. The conversation offers fascinating insights into baseball history and the perspective of one of the game's great pitchers.

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E26: The Blind Broadcaster: Don Wardlow's Baseball Story

In this episode, Erik Sherman interviews Don Wardlow, the first blind professional baseball broadcaster. Don shares his inspiring journey from a baseball-loving child to a pioneering minor league color commentator. He discusses his innovative techniques for game preparation, his partnership with play-by-play announcer Jim Lucas, and his popular seventh-inning stretch performances. This conversation highlights Don's passion for baseball and his remarkable ability to excel in broadcasting despite being born without sight.