Fans First, host Jim Powell and Tyler Flowers sits down with baseball legend Billy Badass Wagner, one of the greatest left-handed pitchers in MLB history. Billy talks about his emotional Hall of Fame election, the journey of becoming a Hall of Famer, and what it meant to him to be recognized for his incredible 400-save career. He shares stories about his family, including his son’s MLB career, his old-school approach to baseball, and his thoughts on the future of the game, including the impact of technology like robot umpires. Billy also dives into the lighter side of his career, from unforgettable pranks with teammates to his favorite catchers and the challenges of being a parent in the world of professional sports.

Timestamps:

• (01:00) Introduction to Billy Wagner
• (01:39) Billy's Emotional Hall of Fame Announcement
• (04:01) A Close Look at Billy Wagner’s Legacy
• (07:47) The Story Behind Billy’s Unlikely Career
• (11:09) Reflections on Hall of Fame Induction and Family Pride
• (14:15) Billy Talks About the Hard Work of Being in the Hall of Fame
• (18:10) Billy’s Early Career and His Change to Left-Handed Pitching
• (19:11) Billy's Take on the Evolution of Baseball and Technology
• (23:05) Thoughts on MLB's Future: Robot Umpires & Pitching Revolution
• (27:18) Behind the Scenes: Baseball Pranks and Team Dynamics
• (31:22) Billy Discusses His Favorite Catchers
• (33:50) Billy’s Perspective on Old-School Baseball vs. New Trends
• (36:15) The Most Unforgettable Moments of Billy’s Career
• (39:48) Billy’s Regret About Missing a Championship
• (42:03) Wrap-Up: Reflections on Billy’s Legacy and Family

Key Takeaways:

• Billy Wagner’s Legacy: A true powerhouse on the mound, Billy Wagner’s career is highlighted by his 400 saves and his reputation as the toughest pitcher to hit in MLB history.
• Family and Baseball: Billy’s family has played a huge role in his career, from his emotional Hall of Fame election to his son’s current MLB journey.
• Old-School Baseball Values: Billy shares his perspective on the game’s evolution, including his old-school approach and thoughts on the new era of baseball with the introduction of technology and robot umpires.
• Hall of Fame Induction and Recognition: For Billy, being inducted into the Hall of Fame represents not just personal success, but a tribute to his small-town roots and the journey that led him to be a baseball legend.

Resource Links:

Fans First Podcast Website http://www.fansfirstpodcast.com

About the Guest:

Billy BadAss Wagner is a former MLB pitcher known for his powerful left arm and incredible fastball. With a career spanning over 16 years, Billy made a significant impact on the game, finishing with 400 saves, one of the highest marks for a relief pitcher. His achievements earned him a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2025. Billy is also known for his humble beginnings in Southwest Virginia and his deep love for the game, which he continues to share with his family, especially his son, who is now playing in the major leagues.

Billy Wagner, Baseball Hall of Fame, MLB, Jim Powell, Tyler Flowers, Sports Podcast, Baseball Stories, 400 Saves, Baseball Career, Baseball Legends, MLB Hall of Fame, Fan Stories, Baseball Pranks, Pitching Careers, Fans First, Billy the Kid