Knuckleballs, Time Travel, and Banana Ball w/ Ole Knuckles
Rediscovering the Game with Knuckleballs, Time Travel, and Banana Ball
Knuckleballs, Time Travel, and Banana Ball w/ Ole Knuckles takes listeners on a trip through baseball’s past, present, and future. Fisher Polydoroff, better known as Old Knuckles, joins Coach Aaron and co-host Dylan “Hollywood” Boyle to share how he blends history, entertainment, and passion for the game. From gripping the knuckleball to entertaining fans in Banana Land, Fisher reveals what makes him unique as both a player and performer.
“I don’t think there’s anybody on earth that is better fit for the role that I play in Bananaland,” Fisher shares, highlighting how his character connects baseball history with modern fan engagement.
From Youth Baseball to Banana Land Adventures
Fisher opens up about his early years in sports, moving from soccer to baseball, and how his curiosity for the game’s history shaped his path. Growing up in Texas, he became known as a power hitter and utility player, but his creativity set him apart. His time with the Visitors, the Savannah Bananas’ developmental team, showed him that baseball could be more than stats—it could be entertainment. Fans embraced Old Knuckles, a character who blends vintage baseball style with showmanship, bringing something fresh to Banana Ball.
For those who want to dive deeper into Banana Ball’s evolution, check out the Savannah Bananas’ official site to see how this phenomenon continues to grow.
The Knuckleball Legacy and Baseball History
Knuckleballs, Time Travel, and Banana Ball is about more than a quirky pitch—it’s about keeping baseball’s traditions alive. Fisher explains how he learned the knuckleball from R.A. Dickey and perfected it into a signature skill. He also dives into baseball history, sharing stories of legends like Honus Wagner, Hoyt Wilhelm, and Phil Niekro. His passion for nostalgia shines through when he talks about vintage bats, old-school uniforms, and recreating classic styles of play.
To explore another perspective on baseball’s evolution, check out our episode Sandlot Swag with Big Stadium Dreams: Twinstripe Reporters on Deck, where young players share their love for the game’s roots.
Entertaining Fans, Inspiring Kids
Fisher emphasizes how Banana Ball allows players to connect directly with fans. Instead of focusing solely on performance, he celebrates the joy of interaction—signing autographs, playing music, and even performing magic. By doing so, he not only entertains crowds but also reminds kids why they fell in love with baseball in the first place. His advice to young athletes is simple: stay dedicated, enjoy the game, and separate yourself from outcomes.
This episode captures how Old Knuckles brings timeless baseball values into today’s world, creating a one-of-a-kind experience for fans and players alike.
“In the Mood” by Glenn Miller
Be sure to follow Fisher on social media at @FisherPolydoroff and @OldiesFish to see his music, baseball, and Banana Ball journey.
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