In this episode, I chat with 13-year Major League catcher Butch Wynegar about a wide range of baseball topics, including his early days as a pro player, the development of his coaching philosophies, and his interactions with baseball legends.

Part I:

In the first part of this episode, Butch and I talk about:

Working together in the Yankees’ minor league system

His initial development into a ballplayer and early pro career

An introduction to his coaching philosophy, and his expectations of players.

How he became a switch hitter, what he wishes he had known at the beginning of his big league career, and making adjustments as an MLB hitter.

For Seinfeld fans, Butch talks about how channeling his inner George Costanza helped him with adjustments at the plate (26:50).

Finally, Butch recalls the day he was drafted by the Minnesota Twins.

Part II:

0:00-8:30 How Butch became a catcher

8:35-     Orioles teams from the 60s and 70s, Watching Baseball in York (hometown)

11:00-when he realized he might play in the big leagues

11:15 knocking down his mom

11:30—Coming to Baltimore as a visiting player

12:45 when he felt he had “arrived”…big league routine

14:00 The importance of great teammates

17:00 having his parents in the stands and his 2 all star games

25:00 first spring training

28:30 winning a batting title as a first year player and a discussion about minor league life

32:15 Minor League Home Run Contest and Josh’s Bob Feller run-in

34:15 Butch’s Joe Dimaggio story