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In this episode of 'We Love Our Team', host Jack and Randy Freaking welcome Courtis Fuller, a veteran broadcaster, who shares his journey from battling cancer to becoming a beloved figure in Cincinnati. Courtis reflects on his early days as a Pirates fan, his admiration for Roberto Clemente, and his transition to supporting the Reds. The conversation highlights the importance of community, personal struggles, and the rich history of baseball in Pittsburgh and Cincinnati.

Takeaways

• Courtis Fuller has a 44-year career in broadcasting.
• He openly discussed his rare cancer diagnosis to raise awareness.
• Courtis underwent extensive treatment but is now cancer-free.
• He moved to Cincinnati and fell in love with the city.
• Courtis's grandfather was a Reds fan, influencing his journey.
• The rivalry between the Reds and Pirates shaped his childhood.
• Roberto Clemente is Curtis's all-time idol and inspiration.
• Courtis has memorabilia of Clemente throughout his home.
• He recently joined the board of directors for the Reds Hall of Fame.
• The Hall of Fame in Cincinnati is highly regarded.

Sound Bites

• "I wish I had lottery luck like that."
• "Life is good, life is good."
• "I fell in love with this town."

Jack thanks the listeners

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In this heartfelt episode, Randy and Jack reminisce about the life and legacy of Pete Rose, the all-time hit king of Major League Baseball, who passed away on Monday, September 30, 2024, at the age of 83. Jack and Randy discuss his iconic moments on the field, his records, and the impact he had on the Cincinnati Reds and baseball as a whole. The conversation also touches on the 1975 World Series, his return to Cincinnati, and the ongoing debate about his eligibility for the Hall of Fame. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, the hosts celebrate the hustle and passion that defined Pete Rose's career.

takeaways

• Pete Rose is remembered as a Cincinnati legend.
• His hustle on the field was unmatched.
• The 1975 World Series was a defining moment for Pete.
• Pete's records may never be broken.
• His return to Cincinnati was a monumental event.
• Pete's legacy is intertwined with the Big Red Machine.
• The debate over his Hall of Fame eligibility continues.
• He played in more winning games than anyone else.
• Pete's impact on baseball is still felt today.
• His persona and performance made him an icon.

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In this engaging conversation, Scott Sweeney shares his unique journey from military service to becoming a passionate baseball YouTuber. He discusses his lifelong fandom for the Milwaukee Brewers, the impact of analytics on modern baseball, and the challenges faced by small market teams. Scott also delves into the world of baseball movies, the evolution of contracts and labor relations in the sport, and his thoughts on notable figures like Kurt Flood. The discussion highlights the intricacies of baseball fandom and the dedication required to succeed in the industry.

Takeaways

• Scott Sweeney transitioned from military service to a YouTube career focused on baseball.
• He has been a lifelong fan of the Milwaukee Brewers despite their losing seasons.
• Scott's military experience shaped his perspective on sports and fandom.
• The algorithm plays a crucial role in the success of YouTube channels.
• Small market teams can compete by finding unique advantages in player acquisition.
• Scott emphasizes the importance of analytics in modern baseball strategy.
• He believes Kurt Flood deserves a place in the Hall of Fame for his impact on the sport.
• Scott's YouTube channel, Baseball's Not Dead, covers a variety of baseball topics.
• The conversation touches on the significance of baseball movies and their cultural impact.
• Scott's insights into labor relations in baseball highlight the ongoing struggles of players.

Sound Bites

• "Thank you for your service."
• "I've always found baseball fascinating."
• "The algorithm is king."

Jack thanks the listeners

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In this engaging conversation, Richard Fitch, a long-time Shakespeare influenced author for Redleg Nation, shares his journey from Iowa to Northern Ky to New York and back, his deep-rooted fandom for the Cincinnati Reds, and his experiences writing about baseball. The discussion touches on memorable games, the impact of analytics in modern baseball, and insights into team ownership and management. Richard reflects on the 2012 playoffs, key trades, and the significance of the 1990 Reds, all while sharing personal anecdotes that highlight his passion for the game.

Takeaways

• Richard Fitch has been a dedicated Reds fan since childhood.
• He has a unique background - a love for Shakespeare - that influences his writing style.
• The importance of analytics in evaluating player performance is emphasized.
• Ownership decisions significantly impact team performance and direction.
• Richard's writing for Redleg Nation allows him to express his love for baseball.
• Memorable games from his youth shaped his lifelong fandom.
• The 2012 playoffs were a heartbreaking moment for Reds fans.
• Key trades can change the trajectory of a franchise.
• Richard believes in the need for a balanced approach to team building.
• Skyline Chili and Gold Star represent a cultural divide among Cincinnatians, but Richard prefers N. Ky's Dixie Chili.

Sound Bites

• "I wish William Shakespeare could have written about baseball."
• "I was a dead body" in Law and Order
• Vada Pinson: "I consider him kind of the forgotten Red."

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In this episode, Dr. Lakshmi Sammarco, the Hamilton County Coroner, shares her inspiring journey from India to the United States, her experiences growing up in Cincinnati, and her love for the Cincinnati Reds. She discusses her early memories of baseball, the cultural differences between cricket and baseball, and her favorite moments in Reds history, including her attendance at Pete Rose's record-breaking game. 

Dr. Sammarco also highlights the importance of community and family support in her life and career, and her involvement with the Wright Society, which connects fans with baseball legends. The conversation concludes with a light-hearted word association game featuring Reds legends and a discussion on maintaining enthusiasm for the team despite challenging seasons.

Takeaways

• Dr. Samarko is the first female coroner in Hamilton County.
• She has a deep connection to her Indian roots and family traditions.
• Her first experience with baseball was at a Reds game with her father.
• Cricket and baseball share some similarities but are fundamentally different sports.
• Attending Pete Rose's record-breaking game was a memorable experience for her.
• The Wright Society offers intimate experiences with baseball legends.
• Women in sports have made significant strides over the years.
• Dr. Samarko's children are also passionate Reds fans.
• Maintaining enthusiasm for the Reds is about celebrating the team's history and talent.
• Community support is vital for both personal and professional success.

Sound Bites

• "I was the youngest student in my class."
• "I wanted my children to have my parents nearby."
• "I remember going to the game and sitting in the nosebleed section." 

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Rich Maile, father of Cincinnati Reds catcher Luke Maile, joins Jack and Randy and shares his lifelong love for the Reds, as well as his experiences as a sports star in high school and college. 

(Sorry about the background noise of a fan - not sure why that happened on the app.)

Rich talks about his memories of watching Reds legends like Johnny Bench and Tony Perez, and his pride in seeing his son play in the major leagues. He also discusses the draft process, the challenges of being a backup catcher, and emphasizes Luke's leadership qualities and maturity on and off the field. 

Rich also mentions his other children and his father, highlighting their accomplishments in various fields.

Takeaways

• Rich Maile grew up as a lifelong Cincinnati Reds fan and has fond memories of watching Reds legends like Johnny Bench and Tony Perez.
• Luke, Rich's son, is a catcher for the Reds and has shown leadership qualities and maturity on and off the field.
• The draft process for Luke was a mix of excitement and uncertainty, but he ultimately signed with the the Tampa Bay Rays.
• Rich's other children have also excelled in various fields, including music, architecture, and civil engineering.

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In this episode, Jack and Randy welcome their sons -Bob Freking and Joe and Ben Greiner. The boys discuss their experiences as Cincinnati Reds fans. They talk about their early memories of being Reds fans, their favorite players, and their most disappointing moments. They also share their least favorite Reds, including David Bell and Jim Edmonds. 

The conversation touches on the 2012 playoff series against the Giants and the no-hitter by Roy Halladay. Overall, the participants express their love for the Reds and their frustration with some of the team's performances. 

The episode covers various topics related to the Cincinnati Reds, including favorite players, road trips, trades, announcers, mascots, and baseball movies. The participants share their thoughts and memories, highlighting their favorite moments and experiences. They also expressed optimism about the Reds' future and the possibility of winning a World Series championship in their lifetimes.

Takeaways

• The boys share their early memories of being Reds fans and how their fathers influenced their love for the team.
• They discuss their favorite players, including Barry Larkin, Joey Votto, and Johnny Cueto.
• The 2012 playoff series against the Giants and the no-hitter by Roy Halladay are mentioned as some of the most disappointing moments for Reds fans.
• David Bell and Jim Edmonds are mentioned as least favorite Reds.
• The boys express their love for the Reds and their frustration with some of the team's performances. The Cincinnati Reds have had some memorable trades, with notable steals like Wily Mo Pena for Bronson Arroyo.
• The participants enjoyed road trips to various ballparks, including Milwaukee, Pittsburgh, and Cleveland.
• Favorite radio and TV announcers for the Reds include the Cowboy, Welsh, and Marty Brennaman.
• Mr. Red and Mr. Redlegs are popular mascots among the participants.
• The Sandlot, Major League, and A League of Their Own are favorite baseball movies.
• There is optimism about the Reds' future and the possibility of winning a World Series championship in the next few years.

Sound Bites

• "David Bell is probably the top of my list" as a least favorite Red.
• "My worst memories, I would say the no-hitter against the Phillies in the playoffs"
• "I am a very well-documented Tyler Stephenson hater"
• "Willy Mo Pena for Bronson Arroyo. It was an absolute steal for the Reds."
• "Mr. Red is my favorite. I'm always rooting for him in the mascot race."
• "Hunter Greene: Future Cy Young."

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Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame veteran Dee Taylor, and HOF volunteer Pam Popp, join Jack and Randy to start Season 2. Dee and Pam share their memories of the Reds, and describe for our listeners a little known outreach program of the Reds HOF for senior citizens in memory care homes, nursing homes, and other senior living communities. The program is unique to the Reds and could serve as a model for other professional sports teams.

Dee and Pam, lifelong Reds fans, discuss their love for the team and their involvement in the Legends Remembered program at the Reds Hall of Fame. The program focuses on engaging seniors in the community through various activities and events. They share their favorite Reds players from the past and present, including Pete Rose and Jonathan India. 

Dee and Pam also touch on the importance of mental health and the personal challenges that players face. Overall, their passion for the Reds and their dedication to preserving the team's legacy shines through. The conversation revolves around the Reds Legends and Memories program and the Rosie Reds organization. The hosts discuss the team, favorite players, and volunteering roles. They also talk about other teams with similar programs and the experiences of Reds fans at away games. The conversation ends with some trivia questions about the Reds.

Takeaways

The Legends Remembered program at the Reds Hall of Fame engages seniors in the community through various activities and events.
Dee and Pam share their favorite Reds players from the past and present, including Pete Rose and Jonathan India.
They discuss the importance of mental health and the personal challenges that players face.
Their passion for the Reds and their dedication to preserving the team's legacy shines through. The Reds Legends and Memories program and the Rosie Reds organization provide opportunities for fans to engage with the team and share their love for the Reds.
Volunteering for programs like Reds Legends and Memories can be a fulfilling way to connect with older adults and create meaningful experiences.
The Reds have a rich history and dedicated fan base, and other teams should consider implementing similar programs to engage their fans.
Fans of the Reds enjoy reminiscing about past players and games, and attending away games can be a fun and memorable experience.
Trivia questions and games related to the team's history can be a great way to engage fans and test their knowledge.

Sound Bites

"We do a traveling show and a mascot. That's where we take artifacts in."
"I've been amazed at how the long ago and far away memories get triggered."
"When I was growing up, it was Mickey Mantle."
"I think I feel like I found, um, the perfect way to love my reds and share my love of the reds with individuals who need, um, reinforcement, who need activities and who need to, uh, be a part of today as well as remembering yesterday."
"So for some of our listeners who might not be familiar with, tell us a little bit about the Rosie Reds and what that's all about."
"There are other groups that do stimulating things for memory care, okay? But to my knowledge, no, there's not another group. And it's a shame because they should be doing it." 

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Mike Cameron, the retired varsity baseball coach at Moeller High School in Cincinnati, joins the podcast. Mike had a successful coaching career, with 767 wins and 4 state championships. Many of his players went on to play college baseball and 13 made it to the major leagues, including Hall of Famers Barry Larkin and Ken Griffey Jr. 

Mike shares his experiences playing at Purcell HS and working at Crosley Field, as well as his coaching journey at Moeller. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and the development of talent in building a successful program. 

In this episode, Mike discusses his experiences coaching high school baseball and working as an official scorer for the Cincinnati Reds. He shares stories about coaching talented players like Ken Griffey, Jr., Barry Larkin, Buddy Bell, and David Bell, as well as his interactions with other coaches and players. Mike also explains the role of an official scorer and how scoring decisions are made. He reflects on his coaching philosophy and the impact of legendary Reds manager Sparky Anderson. 

Overall, the conversation highlights Mike's passion for baseball and his dedication to the sport.

Takeaways

• Mike Cameron had a successful coaching career at Moeller High School, with 767 wins and 4 state championships.
• Several of Mike's players went on to play college baseball and 13 made it to the major leagues, including Hall of Famers Barry Larkin and Ken Griffey Jr.
• Mike emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and the development of talent in building a successful baseball program.
• He shares his experiences playing at Purcell HS and working at Crosley Field, including interactions with visiting players like Stan Musial.
• Mike's coaching journey started as a JV coach and he learned from every coach he came across, constantly improving his skills. Coaching high school baseball requires a strong relationship with players and a focus on their development.
• The role of an official scorer is to observe and record the official record of the game, including scoring decisions and game details.
• Sparky Anderson was a highly respected manager who was able to get the best out of his players.
• Mike's experiences in coaching and scoring for the Reds have given him a deep appreciation for the game of baseball.

Sound Bites

• "Smooth, most natural ballplayer I've ever coached." (Griffey, Jr.)
• "He hit a ball over the fence, over the trees, and it landed down on Sherman Avenue. That thing was majestic." (Ditto)
• "The longest home run that I saw him hit, well actually the umpire called it foul, was up at Lakota High School." (Ditto)
• "Who's your favorite red player of all time if you have"
• "I tried to learn from every coach, whether it was a football coach, a basketball coach. It didn't make any difference. I tried to learn from everybody."
• "Go Crusaders, what's that all about? Everybody loves the Crusaders, the Panthers, the Bombers, and the Lancers, right?"

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Hal McCoy, a legendary journalist who has covered the Cincinnati Reds, joins the podcast. He shares stories from his career, including breaking news to a manager that he had been fired and his complicated relationships with Joe Morgan, Eric Davis, Pete Rose. McCoy also discusses his love for the game of baseball and his intro to writing by a high school typing teacher.

Hal shares his insights on the Cincinnati Reds and his experiences covering the team. He discusses the rise of the Big Red Machine in the late 1960s and early 1970s, the impact of free agency on team dynasties, and the role of analytics in baseball. McCoy also talks about his favorite managers, memorable moments in Reds history, and his personal life.

Overall, he provides a unique perspective on the team and the sport.

Takeaways

• Hal McCoy covered the Cincinnati Reds for 50 plus years and has won numerous awards for his writing.
• He became a Reds fan in the late 1960s and has remained a fan throughout his career.
• He believes that Pete Rose should be in the Hall of Fame based on his on-field accomplishments.
• McCoy's favorite memory as a Reds fan is difficult to choose, but he recalls a moment when he asked a manager about a player's performance and was scolded for not focusing on the team's win. The Big Red Machine was a talented team that was built around young players like Pete Rose, Johnny Bench, and Tony Perez.
• Free agency has made it difficult for teams to build dynasties, as players often move from team to team.
• Analytics can be useful in baseball, but the best managers still rely on their instincts and the eye test.
• Leadership and veteran presence are important factors in a team's success.
• Hal McCoy's favorite managers are Lou Piniella and Jack McKeon.
• Hal McCoy has fond memories of covering the Reds and has regrets about missing his sons' athletic events.
• Hal McCoy prefers LaRosa's over Cassano's, Skyline over Gold Star, and United Dairy Farmers over Graeter's.

Sound Bites

• "I may have been the only sportswriter ever to tell a manager he was fired."
• "I wrote a column saying, you know, it was good that Joe was leaving. They were breaking up the big red machine and it was good for him to move on because he wasn't going to be part of the future."
• "For what he did on the field, I mean, think about it, 4,200 and some hits. Anybody to match that would have to have 200 hits for 20 straight years."
• "One team can't really build a dynasty."
• "I am old school. I am so old school."

Jack thanks the listeners