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At the 2011 Motor City Comic Con, I had the pleasure of talking to Wolfman Mac, host of Wolfman Mac's Chiller Drive-In (formerly known as Nightmare SINema). You can catch Chiller Drive-in every Saturday night at 10 pm on RTV-The Retro Television Network.
According to legend, Wolfman Mac has been around since the 1930's. He searched for years for "an outlet for his love of B movies and hackneyed acting". Then one day, he found an abandoned drive-in and met Boney Bob. To read the rest of the story (and for a ton of more stuff), check out Wolfman Mac's Chiller Drive-In site.
Wolfman Mac has a huge following in the Detroit area, but his fandom stretches across the country, too. The Chiller Drive-In booth was one of the most popular attractions at the MCCC. Fans couldn't get enough of Wolfman and his show mates like Torg, Morbid Melvin, Son of Froggy and the rest.
Like last year when I met the Ghoul, I was excited about meeting Wolfman Mac. He is a throwback to great tv I watched growing up, but he is connected to today's audience. I could watch shows like this all day long (sometimes I actually do).
Wolfman Mac was kind enough to give me a few minutes of his time for a quick interview. I really appreciate his time and consideration. I hope to see him and his crew next year. Until then, I will continue to enjoy his work online and on tv.
Showing posts with label Interviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Interviews. Show all posts
On the Beat with Catherine Johns-Part 1
Last week, I had the pleasure of sitting and chatting with Chicago radio legend Catherine Johns. Usually I would have written "interviewed", but Johns was so gracious and made me feel so at ease that it really was more of a conversation.
During my teens, my sisters and I spent a lot of time simply sitting on the front porch listening to WLS radio. There weren't nearly as many listening options back then, but even if there were more, I'm pretty sure we would have listened to WLS anyway. It was that good.
Johns was a news reporter, anchor, sidekick, host and more during her 18 years at WLS. She worked with legends like Larry Lujack, Fred Winston and John Landecker. I believe Johns was instrumental in WLS having one of the earliest forms of the morning zoo (and certainly one of the best).
After WLS, Johns had stints at WJMK and in the business world. Since 2005, Johns and partner Karen Hand (another Chicago radio veteran) have owned Chicago Hypnosis Center, where "the emphasis is on you at Chicago Hypnosis Center. Your goals, your progress, your results".
In my research on Johns, I read a quote from another interview, where she said, "We'll talk to any old blogger that walks in the door." With a quote like that, I figured I might have a chance.
What I got was a lot more than I anticipated. Johns talked with me for about an hour at the local Starbuck's. I will be discussing various parts of the interview here in the future.
For now, I'd like to end with two things. First, Karen Hand is hosting a workshop on March 10 called Change-It's easy when you put your mind to it. The workshop will be at the Chicago Hypnosis Center at 4801 West Peterson, Suite 601 in Chicago and will run from 6:30-8:30 pm. It's only $20 and you can register by calling 773-725-3200. If it is anywhere near as fascinating as Johns was, it will be a great experience.
Finally, I'll leave you with a very short video of Catherine discussing the Chicago Hypnosis Center and how they would approach the fear of flying. This is just one example, but it might be especially interesting to readers of Global Traveler magazine.
I really appreciate Catherine giving me her time and energy. I look forward to future conversations and to presenting more info from our conversations.
During my teens, my sisters and I spent a lot of time simply sitting on the front porch listening to WLS radio. There weren't nearly as many listening options back then, but even if there were more, I'm pretty sure we would have listened to WLS anyway. It was that good.
Johns was a news reporter, anchor, sidekick, host and more during her 18 years at WLS. She worked with legends like Larry Lujack, Fred Winston and John Landecker. I believe Johns was instrumental in WLS having one of the earliest forms of the morning zoo (and certainly one of the best).
After WLS, Johns had stints at WJMK and in the business world. Since 2005, Johns and partner Karen Hand (another Chicago radio veteran) have owned Chicago Hypnosis Center, where "the emphasis is on you at Chicago Hypnosis Center. Your goals, your progress, your results".
In my research on Johns, I read a quote from another interview, where she said, "We'll talk to any old blogger that walks in the door." With a quote like that, I figured I might have a chance.
What I got was a lot more than I anticipated. Johns talked with me for about an hour at the local Starbuck's. I will be discussing various parts of the interview here in the future.
For now, I'd like to end with two things. First, Karen Hand is hosting a workshop on March 10 called Change-It's easy when you put your mind to it. The workshop will be at the Chicago Hypnosis Center at 4801 West Peterson, Suite 601 in Chicago and will run from 6:30-8:30 pm. It's only $20 and you can register by calling 773-725-3200. If it is anywhere near as fascinating as Johns was, it will be a great experience.
Finally, I'll leave you with a very short video of Catherine discussing the Chicago Hypnosis Center and how they would approach the fear of flying. This is just one example, but it might be especially interesting to readers of Global Traveler magazine.
I really appreciate Catherine giving me her time and energy. I look forward to future conversations and to presenting more info from our conversations.
Interviews 2010
We had a very productive year in 2010. We were able to get a bunch of great interviews. Below is the complete listing for all posted video interviews.
We met Mick Kelleher, one of my childhood favorites, at CitiField. Kelleher was very generous with his time and shared the story of his battle with Dave Kingman, among other topics. To watch the Kelleher interview, click here.
We talked to Yankees coach Tony Pena about travel and George Kontos (a local player in the Yankees system). Like Kelleher, Pena also played in Chicago, but much later, briefer and on the south side. To watch the Tony Pena video, click here.
We interviewed The Ghoul at the Motor City Comic Con in Novi (MI). The Ghoul spoke about his favorite movies and how he still has fun and still is popular after so long in the business. To watch the Ghoul interview, click here.
I had a lengthy conversation with former NHL goalie Dave Dryden. Dryden discussed his career and SCAW (Sleeping Children Around the World), a foundation founded by his parents. To watch the Dryden video, click here.
I chatted briefly with pitcher Andrew Cashner as he headed into the dugout before a game at Wrigley Field. Cashner talked about his favorite city. To watch the Cashner video, click here.
I talked to Cubs coach Matt Sinatro during warmups before a game at Wrigley Field. Aside from joking that I didn't even know him (although I totally did), Sinatro talked about his favorite cities. To watch the Sinatro video, click here.
After waiting for local reporter Paula Faris interview Tyler Colvin, I turned the tables on her, by interviewing her. To watch the Faris video, click here.
Good timing allowed me to be at the park the day after Piniella announced he would not return in 2011. I was part of a gaggle of reporters who got to interview Cubs coach and possible successor Alan Trammell. To see part of that experience, click here.
We lucked out by almost accidentally interviewing pitching legend and Twins broadcaster Jack Morris in the press box at Target Field. Morris talked about his favorite cities. To watch the Morris interview, click here.
We talked to Twins manager Ron Gardenhire in the dugout while rain washed out batting practice. Gardenhire talked about his favorite cities and hotels, including one with a pool table in his room. To watch the Gardenhire video, click here.
After our dugout interview, we were invited into Gardenhire's office for the usual pre-game press session. Gardenhire talked about the weather and a couple of injured Twins. To watch the Gardenhire office video, click here.
It's always extra special to interview a player like Jim Thome. The former White Sox slugger talked to us in the Twins dugout. To watch the Thome video, click here.
Chuck landed an interview with White Sox pitcher Sergio Santos. They talked about some great travel destinations. To watch the Santos interview, click here.
We had a great interview with Tony Oliva, but unfortunately camera problems eliminated the actual interview. Oliva talked fondly of old ballparks and old times, but also spoke highly of Target Field. The interview was great and the man was truly special. To read more about the Oliva interview, click here.
I caught Twins pitcher Matt Guerrier as he headed into the dugout. Guerrier talked about travel and the Twins. To watch the Guerrier interview, click here.
We might have infringed a bit on a segment for an official mlb production, but we did manage to get a quick few thoughts from Twins slugger Michael Cuddyer. To watch the Cuddyer video, click here.
Before a game at Minute Maid Park, I caught Jeff Bagwell as he waited for his Astros to get in the batting area. Bagwell talked about being back and about travel. To watch the Bagwell video, click here.
My nephew Matt got in the act by getting his first interview with Michael Bourn. Bourn initially said he needed to take batting practice, but he did come back to Matt and talked about travel. To watch the Bourn video, click here.
I managed to get Mets manager Jerry Manuel as he headed to the batting area. Manuel talked about his favorite city. To watch the Manuel video, click here.
I talked to Astros manager Brad Mills as he headed back into the dugout. Mills talked about his favorite city. To watch the Mills video, click here.
Matt crossed the field to get Mets outfielder Jeff Francouer. Francouer talked about his favorite city. To watch the Francouer video, click here.
I talked to Mets coach Razor Shines after he had met a bunch of fans. Shines talked fondly of his time playing in Montreal and his time coaching for the White Sox. To watch the Shines interview, click here.
Matt finished his interview trifecta with Mets infielder Michael Hessman. Hessman talked about travel. To watch the Hessman video, click here.
After an earlier camera botch ruined an interview with Jamie Quirk at Wrigley Field, I got him in Minute Maid Park. We talked about travel. To watch the Quirk video, click here.
For the third straight year, we talked to wrestling personality Christy Hemme. Hemme updated us on her new marriage, her band (Hemme) and her favorite travel spots. To watch the Hemme interview, click here.
After missing her in 2009, we once again interviewed Beth Horn. Horn talked to us about her acting career, American Gladiators and her favorite travel locations. To watch the Horn interview, click here.
Diamond Dallas Page briefly talked to us to promote Johngy's Beat and his own site. DDP gave a summary of his site and his workout program. To watch the DDP video, click here.
We met Mick Kelleher, one of my childhood favorites, at CitiField. Kelleher was very generous with his time and shared the story of his battle with Dave Kingman, among other topics. To watch the Kelleher interview, click here.
We talked to Yankees coach Tony Pena about travel and George Kontos (a local player in the Yankees system). Like Kelleher, Pena also played in Chicago, but much later, briefer and on the south side. To watch the Tony Pena video, click here.
We interviewed The Ghoul at the Motor City Comic Con in Novi (MI). The Ghoul spoke about his favorite movies and how he still has fun and still is popular after so long in the business. To watch the Ghoul interview, click here.
I had a lengthy conversation with former NHL goalie Dave Dryden. Dryden discussed his career and SCAW (Sleeping Children Around the World), a foundation founded by his parents. To watch the Dryden video, click here.
I chatted briefly with pitcher Andrew Cashner as he headed into the dugout before a game at Wrigley Field. Cashner talked about his favorite city. To watch the Cashner video, click here.
I talked to Cubs coach Matt Sinatro during warmups before a game at Wrigley Field. Aside from joking that I didn't even know him (although I totally did), Sinatro talked about his favorite cities. To watch the Sinatro video, click here.
After waiting for local reporter Paula Faris interview Tyler Colvin, I turned the tables on her, by interviewing her. To watch the Faris video, click here.
Good timing allowed me to be at the park the day after Piniella announced he would not return in 2011. I was part of a gaggle of reporters who got to interview Cubs coach and possible successor Alan Trammell. To see part of that experience, click here.
We lucked out by almost accidentally interviewing pitching legend and Twins broadcaster Jack Morris in the press box at Target Field. Morris talked about his favorite cities. To watch the Morris interview, click here.
We talked to Twins manager Ron Gardenhire in the dugout while rain washed out batting practice. Gardenhire talked about his favorite cities and hotels, including one with a pool table in his room. To watch the Gardenhire video, click here.
After our dugout interview, we were invited into Gardenhire's office for the usual pre-game press session. Gardenhire talked about the weather and a couple of injured Twins. To watch the Gardenhire office video, click here.
After years of talking to longtime friend and Twins coach Rick Stelmaszek, I officially talked to him in the Twins dugout. Stelmaszek discussed his favorite cities, his longevity and the playoff hopes of the Twins. To watch the Stelmaszek video, click here.
It's always extra special to interview a player like Jim Thome. The former White Sox slugger talked to us in the Twins dugout. To watch the Thome video, click here.
Chuck landed an interview with White Sox pitcher Sergio Santos. They talked about some great travel destinations. To watch the Santos interview, click here.
We had a great interview with Tony Oliva, but unfortunately camera problems eliminated the actual interview. Oliva talked fondly of old ballparks and old times, but also spoke highly of Target Field. The interview was great and the man was truly special. To read more about the Oliva interview, click here.
I caught Twins pitcher Matt Guerrier as he headed into the dugout. Guerrier talked about travel and the Twins. To watch the Guerrier interview, click here.
We might have infringed a bit on a segment for an official mlb production, but we did manage to get a quick few thoughts from Twins slugger Michael Cuddyer. To watch the Cuddyer video, click here.
Before a game at Minute Maid Park, I caught Jeff Bagwell as he waited for his Astros to get in the batting area. Bagwell talked about being back and about travel. To watch the Bagwell video, click here.
My nephew Matt got in the act by getting his first interview with Michael Bourn. Bourn initially said he needed to take batting practice, but he did come back to Matt and talked about travel. To watch the Bourn video, click here.
I managed to get Mets manager Jerry Manuel as he headed to the batting area. Manuel talked about his favorite city. To watch the Manuel video, click here.
I talked to Astros manager Brad Mills as he headed back into the dugout. Mills talked about his favorite city. To watch the Mills video, click here.
Matt crossed the field to get Mets outfielder Jeff Francouer. Francouer talked about his favorite city. To watch the Francouer video, click here.
After Matt spotted him, I interview former Astros pitcher Jim Deshaies. We talked about his favorite cities and his Hall of Fame vote. To watch the Deshaies video, click here.
I talked to Mets coach Razor Shines after he had met a bunch of fans. Shines talked fondly of his time playing in Montreal and his time coaching for the White Sox. To watch the Shines interview, click here.
Matt finished his interview trifecta with Mets infielder Michael Hessman. Hessman talked about travel. To watch the Hessman video, click here.
After an earlier camera botch ruined an interview with Jamie Quirk at Wrigley Field, I got him in Minute Maid Park. We talked about travel. To watch the Quirk video, click here.
For the third straight year, we talked to wrestling personality Christy Hemme. Hemme updated us on her new marriage, her band (Hemme) and her favorite travel spots. To watch the Hemme interview, click here.
After missing her in 2009, we once again interviewed Beth Horn. Horn talked to us about her acting career, American Gladiators and her favorite travel locations. To watch the Horn interview, click here.
Diamond Dallas Page briefly talked to us to promote Johngy's Beat and his own site. DDP gave a summary of his site and his workout program. To watch the DDP video, click here.
We talked to wrestling legend and author Mick Foley at Wizard World in Chicago. Foley raved about Johngy's Beat and promoted his book Countdown to Lockdown. To watch the Foley video, click here.
On the Beat with Beth Horn (A Lost Interview)
While scrounging through some disks, I came across an interview I did with actress Beth Horn in 2008 at Wizard World. It was an impromptu interview that I ultimately used for Global Traveler, although it was originally intended for a different magazine.
I had my recorder with me and I saw Horn. I thought she would be a great fit for a specific local women's magazine in Chicago. I approached her and she gladly gave me several minutes of her time.
We talked about her time on tv's American Gladiators, as well as her developing movie career. She had recently just finished filming scenes for Fancy Pants, a movie which was scheduled for release, but has yet to be. It also starred my old friends, Roddy Piper and Terry Funk.
I also discovered that Beth went to Resurrection high school on the northwest side f Chicago. During my time at Lerner Newspapers, I am sure I saw Beth's name and picture many times in our high school sports section.
I caught up with Beth this past summer and posted the video here. Now, if we can turn back the clock, here is my found 2008 interview with Beth Horn.
I had my recorder with me and I saw Horn. I thought she would be a great fit for a specific local women's magazine in Chicago. I approached her and she gladly gave me several minutes of her time.
We talked about her time on tv's American Gladiators, as well as her developing movie career. She had recently just finished filming scenes for Fancy Pants, a movie which was scheduled for release, but has yet to be. It also starred my old friends, Roddy Piper and Terry Funk.
I also discovered that Beth went to Resurrection high school on the northwest side f Chicago. During my time at Lerner Newspapers, I am sure I saw Beth's name and picture many times in our high school sports section.
I caught up with Beth this past summer and posted the video here. Now, if we can turn back the clock, here is my found 2008 interview with Beth Horn.
On the Beat with Pete Flynn (A Lost Interview)
I have written about Pete Flynn a couple times. We never planned on interviewing Flynn. Honestly, we never had even heard of Flynn until after we talked to him. Looking back over all of the interviews we have done, Flynn could possibly have seen and done the most interesting things of all.
Flynn has been a groundskeeper for the New York Mets for over 40 years. For a long stretch, he was Head Groundskeeper, but since "retiring" he rejoined the crew.
Flynn has seen all of the great players over the years. He saw the awful Mets of the early 60's, the Amazin' Mets of 1969 and the World Series champs of 1986. He has seen the Polo Grounds, Shea and the new Citi Field.
His adventures aren't limited to baseball though. He drove the Beatles from the stage to their lino for their Shea concert. Years later, he drove Paul McCartney to the stage to surprise Billy Joel at the last concert at Shea (as seen on "The Last Play at Shea").
Flynn is soft-spoken and modest. He's a fascinating guy, but getting him to talk was a bit tough. If it hadn't been for a rain delay, we wouldn't have been in the dugout and we wouldn't have smooth-talked the security guard and he wouldn't have called over Flynn to talk to us.
Sometimes you just never know what you will find. In Flynn, we found a gem!
The Lost Tony Oliva Interview
While at Target Field earlier this year, we got a bunch of interviews for my online pieces at Global Traveler magazine. One of our successes was Twins legend Tony Oliva. Unfortunately, the video of that interview was lost. That happens sometimes. My videographer (who shall remain nameless) is usually top-notch. One little slip doesn't change that. The important thing is that I remember several of the big points.
Oliva was quite lively. His eyes had a sparkle as he talked to us. The man is 72, but as he spoke, I could envision the much younger version of him playing with the Twins. Oliva talked about the Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee. Supposedly it was haunted. Despite the rumored paranormal activity, Oliva still liked staying there, much better than the newer hotels. The Pfister, and hotels like it, have character and personality.
Oliva moved on to discuss Target Field. For a man like Oliva, Target Field is like a dream. It is worlds away from other baseball fields Oliva has encountered in his lifetime.
I love talking to men like Oliva. He clearly loves baseball. He isn't bitter about changes, but he respects the past, while embracing modern luxuries. I think Oliva would be just as happy with a simple field, but he knows things change. He just seems to be enjoying himself.
Oliva reminisced about playing in cities like Milwaukee and Seattle. He loved going to eat in Chicago and New York. He also liked finding Cuban restaurants in various cities.
The interview was fairly long (especially for us). To be honest, the details pale in comparison to the general feeling. I walked away from Oliva simply feeling good about things. I couldn't ask for anything more from a day at the ballpark.
Tony Oliva in the Twins dugout in Minneapolis, MN-August 2010.
Oliva was quite lively. His eyes had a sparkle as he talked to us. The man is 72, but as he spoke, I could envision the much younger version of him playing with the Twins. Oliva talked about the Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee. Supposedly it was haunted. Despite the rumored paranormal activity, Oliva still liked staying there, much better than the newer hotels. The Pfister, and hotels like it, have character and personality.
Oliva moved on to discuss Target Field. For a man like Oliva, Target Field is like a dream. It is worlds away from other baseball fields Oliva has encountered in his lifetime.
I love talking to men like Oliva. He clearly loves baseball. He isn't bitter about changes, but he respects the past, while embracing modern luxuries. I think Oliva would be just as happy with a simple field, but he knows things change. He just seems to be enjoying himself.
Oliva reminisced about playing in cities like Milwaukee and Seattle. He loved going to eat in Chicago and New York. He also liked finding Cuban restaurants in various cities.
The interview was fairly long (especially for us). To be honest, the details pale in comparison to the general feeling. I walked away from Oliva simply feeling good about things. I couldn't ask for anything more from a day at the ballpark.
Tony Oliva in the Twins dugout in Minneapolis, MN-August 2010.On the Beat with Chrissy Colligan (A Lost Interview Almost with Emmanuelle Chriqui)
A while ago, I wrote about getting a super quick interview with MLB.com's Chrissy Colligan at Dodger Stadium. I thought I lost the snippet, but I recently found the cd with a ton of stuff, including my interaction with Chrissy.
As I wrote before, in 2008, we were at Dodger Stadium to interview Rick Monday for Global Traveler. We got a few other interviews while we waited for Monday. As we were leaving the field, we saw Chrissy waiting to interview actress Emmanuelle Chriqui for MLB.com. I jumped in an got a quick sound byte from Chrissy.
Aside from her work on MLB.com, Chrissy is a personal trainer in the Los Angeles area. She can also be heard reading some pulp stories on the Well Told Tales website.
I think my intrusion really unnerved her producer guy (coordinator?). I think I threw off his timing. As Chuck says though, "Hey, we're all professionals here."
Below is the audio from my bit with Chrissy. Below that is the piece she did for MLB.com. At about the 40 second mark, you can see my arm on the left side of the screen (Yes, I am that petty).
Chrissy Colligan interviews Emmanuelle Chriqui in Los Angeles, CA-June 2008
(Video courtesy of mlb.com)
On the Beat with Brad Mills
Last year, we landed then Astros Manager Cecil Cooper for a quick interview for my online blog for Global Traveler. This year we continued the Manager trend, but with current Manager Brad Mills.
Mills played four seasons with the Montreal Expos. He was a teammate of recently featured Mets coach Razor Shines. Mills was traded in 1984 to the Astros, but never played for the major league club.
The Astros are going through a rough time and Mills has them playing about as well as could be expected (maybe even better). Hopefully, the Astros young talent will develop and will be aided by some acquisitions to solidify the team in 2011. Otherwise, it might be a long season next year for Mills.
Mills played four seasons with the Montreal Expos. He was a teammate of recently featured Mets coach Razor Shines. Mills was traded in 1984 to the Astros, but never played for the major league club.
The Astros are going through a rough time and Mills has them playing about as well as could be expected (maybe even better). Hopefully, the Astros young talent will develop and will be aided by some acquisitions to solidify the team in 2011. Otherwise, it might be a long season next year for Mills.
On the Beat with Jim Thome
The Minnesota Twins were the unlikely first team to clinch a playoff spot this season. Unfortunately, they were also the first team ousted. One of the big reasons for their success has been ex-White Sox slugger Jim Thome.
The Chicago White Sox received Jim Thome in the trade for Aaron Rowand. Thome was loved on the south side, but fans still lament the loss of Rowand. Sox fans now lament the loss of Thome, too.
Thome is nearing 600 homers and is only 39. He will certainly be back next season and maybe even a more.
My nephew Matt and I ran into Thome last season in the underbelly of the MetroDome. We saw him tossing the medicine ball against a wall and catching it while twisting. This was about 4 hours before the game. We didn't go for an official interview, because we saw how hard he was working out. He did greet us and we shared a quick greeting.
This season, my friend Chuck approached Thome in the dugout at Target Field. Chuck landed a quick interview with Thome and ended by thanking him for his time in Chicago.
Matt, Chuck and I all walked away from Thome feeling that we just talked to a genuinely great guy. One day he will be in the Hall of Fame and that will be a great moment. In a world of egos and self-importance, Thome is everything you'd want in a ballplayer (and a person).
On the Beat with Razor Shines
Isn't Razor Shines one of the greatest names ever? Of course Razor isn't his real first name. That would be Anthony. Razor is actually his middle name. Really. How cool is that?
We had the chance to interview Shines in Houston. Shines brought up Montreal as one of his favorite cities. Even though he played his entire four year major league career there, it was still cool to hear someone name Montreal. It made me nostalgic for those old Expos hats with the odd red, while and blue logo.
Then we asked Shines about his time as a coach in Chicago. Shines lit up and said great things about Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf.
By all accounts, Shines is said to be a pretty fun and happy guy. By my short interview with him, I cannot disagree. However, tomorrow's video is a better example of his fun-loving nature.
We had the chance to interview Shines in Houston. Shines brought up Montreal as one of his favorite cities. Even though he played his entire four year major league career there, it was still cool to hear someone name Montreal. It made me nostalgic for those old Expos hats with the odd red, while and blue logo.
Then we asked Shines about his time as a coach in Chicago. Shines lit up and said great things about Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf.
By all accounts, Shines is said to be a pretty fun and happy guy. By my short interview with him, I cannot disagree. However, tomorrow's video is a better example of his fun-loving nature.
On the Beat with Jeff Bagwell
Jeff Bagwell and his 449 HR's should make it to the Hall of Fame in a few years. I had the pleasure of watching him up close several times a year as I visited my sister in Houston. Recently, I had the pleasure of interviewing him in Minute Maid Park.
Bagwell was standing by the batting cage before batting practice. The Astros really hadn't started bp yet, therefore I took my shot and approached him.
My normally reliable video guy (my nephew Matt) missed the very beginning of my question, which was "how do you like being back in baseball?". Bags stated that he was really enjoying it.
Recently, I heard that he probably will not return as a coach because he wants to spend time with his family. While I am glad that I got to interview Bags (especially if he doesn't return), I can't help but think how cool it would have been if he gave us the possible scoop.
I know, I have to be dreaming to think Bags would give us the scoop. I'm just saying...wow that would have been cool. Oh well, at least I logged in another (probable) Hall of Famer.
Bagwell was standing by the batting cage before batting practice. The Astros really hadn't started bp yet, therefore I took my shot and approached him.
My normally reliable video guy (my nephew Matt) missed the very beginning of my question, which was "how do you like being back in baseball?". Bags stated that he was really enjoying it.
Recently, I heard that he probably will not return as a coach because he wants to spend time with his family. While I am glad that I got to interview Bags (especially if he doesn't return), I can't help but think how cool it would have been if he gave us the possible scoop.
I know, I have to be dreaming to think Bags would give us the scoop. I'm just saying...wow that would have been cool. Oh well, at least I logged in another (probable) Hall of Famer.
On the Beat with Sergio Santos
This time, my friend Chuck Gekas got into the interview act. While on the field, Chachi donned the Global Traveler reporter's cap and talked to White Sox pitcher Sergio Santos.
Chachi has been a great friend for a long time. He has assisted me several times in interviews. That's one reason why it was especially cool to see him in front of the camera for this session with Santos.
Chachi handled it smoothly. I am sure he would say, "What's the big deal? We're all professionals." More importantly, I think he had a fun time doing it. With Chuck and my nephew now doing interviews, I am claiming Amway points. All are done under the GT/Johngy's Beat banner. Therefore all are mine.
Chachi handled it smoothly. I am sure he would say, "What's the big deal? We're all professionals." More importantly, I think he had a fun time doing it. With Chuck and my nephew now doing interviews, I am claiming Amway points. All are done under the GT/Johngy's Beat banner. Therefore all are mine.
On the Beat with Jerry Manuel
Jerry Manuel played brief parts of 5 seasons in the major leagues. He hit .150 in 127 career at bats. If he had been a catcher, I probably would have really liked him.
Manuel has received a lot of criticism during his 9 years of managing (6 with the White Sox and 3 with the New York Mets). Even as I write this, it is uncertain if he will return as manager for the Mets. Chalk up this interview as another timely one. I might not have had another chance to speak with Manuel.
Unfortunately, Manuel gave us the easy answer when asked about his favorite city for travel. He named his hometown, Atlanta. Next season, I hope to avoid that answer by refining my questions a bit. With 4 years under my belt, I should be progressing enough to get better answers from my subjects.
Manuel has received a lot of criticism during his 9 years of managing (6 with the White Sox and 3 with the New York Mets). Even as I write this, it is uncertain if he will return as manager for the Mets. Chalk up this interview as another timely one. I might not have had another chance to speak with Manuel.
Unfortunately, Manuel gave us the easy answer when asked about his favorite city for travel. He named his hometown, Atlanta. Next season, I hope to avoid that answer by refining my questions a bit. With 4 years under my belt, I should be progressing enough to get better answers from my subjects.
On the Beat with Rick Stelmaszek
As discussed many times before, I have known Minnesota Twins coach Rick Stelmaszek since his wife was my 3rd grade teacher. I have talked to him on many occasions, but earlier this summer, we officially interviewed him for the first time.
We asked Rick about the new stadium. Rick has praise for the new stadium. Of course, he liked it much better than the old Dome.
Then we asked him about being third on the all-time list of tenured coaches with one team. I thought he was behind Nick Altrock and Manny Mota. Rick's answer is pretty funny. I think it's cool that he knows where he ranks and talks about it a bit. He isn't bragging, just stating facts.
It was a bit surreal interviewing Rick in the Twins dugout, considering our history. Thirty some years ago, I was just hoping to get his card in the pack I bought at the corner store.
Then we asked him about being third on the all-time list of tenured coaches with one team. I thought he was behind Nick Altrock and Manny Mota. Rick's answer is pretty funny. I think it's cool that he knows where he ranks and talks about it a bit. He isn't bragging, just stating facts.
It was a bit surreal interviewing Rick in the Twins dugout, considering our history. Thirty some years ago, I was just hoping to get his card in the pack I bought at the corner store.
On the Beat with Jim Deshaies
In the "leaderboards" Section on the Baseball-Reference page for Jim Deshaies, you will see he got a Hall of Fame vote in 2001. That's a bit unusual for a pitcher with a career record of 84-95 over 12 seasons.
I am sure some reporter probably voted for Deshaies because he liked him and figured it would be cool for Deshaies to get a vote. No matter the reason, Deshaies logged in a vote to the HOF. (I would probably incorporate that onto my business card if I was Deshaies.)
He chuckled a bit when I asked him about it. I wasn't being sarcastic. I told him I thought it was pretty cool.
A special tip of my reporter's cap goes to my nephew Matt, who spotted and recognized Deshaies on the field. Once Matt pointed out the former pitcher, I wasn't going to let him escape without trying.
I am sure some reporter probably voted for Deshaies because he liked him and figured it would be cool for Deshaies to get a vote. No matter the reason, Deshaies logged in a vote to the HOF. (I would probably incorporate that onto my business card if I was Deshaies.)
He chuckled a bit when I asked him about it. I wasn't being sarcastic. I told him I thought it was pretty cool.
A special tip of my reporter's cap goes to my nephew Matt, who spotted and recognized Deshaies on the field. Once Matt pointed out the former pitcher, I wasn't going to let him escape without trying.
On the Beat with Jamie Quirk
While on the field conducting interviews for my weekly online Global Traveler piece, I occasionally get to talk to my favorite players from my youth. Such was the case last year with Jose Cruz.
This time at Minute Maid Park, I really targeted Astros Coach Jamie Quirk. Quirk had an interesting 18 year major league career. Originally, he was an outfielder, but he started catching a bit several years into his career. At this point, he was converting into a solid utility player.
In 1984, Quirk joined the coaching staff of the St. Louis Cardinals, apparently ending his playing career. By the end of the season, he joined the White Sox as a player and then finished the season with the Cleveland Indians. He went on to play 8 more seasons, mostly as a backup catcher (and you all know how I love backup catchers).
Another bit of Quirky trivia (sorry) is that he is #2 on the all-time list of HR's by a player with a last name starting with 'Q' (having recently been passed by Mark Quinn). How odd is that, he isn't even the #1 Q in Royals history?
If all of that wasn't enough, I had to recoup my lost interview with Quirk in Wrigley Field earlier this year. Among the other problems that day, my videocam died right as I got Quirk. I told him I'd see him in Houston later and he became one of our main targets.
As always, it really is cool to talk to these men, whose images appeared on the baseball cards of my youth. I never would have imagined this.
This time at Minute Maid Park, I really targeted Astros Coach Jamie Quirk. Quirk had an interesting 18 year major league career. Originally, he was an outfielder, but he started catching a bit several years into his career. At this point, he was converting into a solid utility player.
In 1984, Quirk joined the coaching staff of the St. Louis Cardinals, apparently ending his playing career. By the end of the season, he joined the White Sox as a player and then finished the season with the Cleveland Indians. He went on to play 8 more seasons, mostly as a backup catcher (and you all know how I love backup catchers).
Another bit of Quirky trivia (sorry) is that he is #2 on the all-time list of HR's by a player with a last name starting with 'Q' (having recently been passed by Mark Quinn). How odd is that, he isn't even the #1 Q in Royals history?
If all of that wasn't enough, I had to recoup my lost interview with Quirk in Wrigley Field earlier this year. Among the other problems that day, my videocam died right as I got Quirk. I told him I'd see him in Houston later and he became one of our main targets.
As always, it really is cool to talk to these men, whose images appeared on the baseball cards of my youth. I never would have imagined this.
On the Beat with Michael Cuddyer
Michael Cuddyer of the Minnesota Twins is one of those players I really like. Cuddyer will never be a Hall of Famer, but he is nearing 1,000 hits for his 10 year career, all spent with the Twins.
When we saw Cuddyer, he was signing a few autographs before heading into the dugout to get ready for the game. Chuck managed to get his attention and squeeze in one question.
When we saw Cuddyer, he was signing a few autographs before heading into the dugout to get ready for the game. Chuck managed to get his attention and squeeze in one question.
Cuddyer definitively named Chicago as his favorite city. I don't think he said it just because the Twins were playing the Sox. He had no way of knowing we were Chicago guys (nor would that matter in the least). Cuddyer was simply another player among the many who put Chicago at the top of their favorite cities to visit.
On the Beat with Matt Guerrier
On a recent trip to Target Field, we were able to get a few interviews for my online feature for Global Traveler magazine. We were just about to leave the field, when relief pitcher Matt Guerrier walked right up to us.
Guerrier was originally drafted by the Chicago White Sox in 1999, but has only pitched for the Minnesota Twins during his seven seasons in the majors. He has a 16-25 career record with 5 saves. He lead the AL in games in 2008 and 2009 and is among the leaders this season.
Guerrier mentioned Boston as his favorite city to visit and Gibson's in Chicago as one of his favorite restaurants. It's hard to argue with either of those choices.
I had to split the video for it to be uploaded here. I also wish the music at Target Field wasn't quite as loud. Once again though, I was on a major league field, interviewing a player and I really can't complain about anything!
Guerrier was originally drafted by the Chicago White Sox in 1999, but has only pitched for the Minnesota Twins during his seven seasons in the majors. He has a 16-25 career record with 5 saves. He lead the AL in games in 2008 and 2009 and is among the leaders this season.
Guerrier mentioned Boston as his favorite city to visit and Gibson's in Chicago as one of his favorite restaurants. It's hard to argue with either of those choices.
I had to split the video for it to be uploaded here. I also wish the music at Target Field wasn't quite as loud. Once again though, I was on a major league field, interviewing a player and I really can't complain about anything!
On the Beat with Mike Hessman
Last week, I proudly featured my nephew Matt Parker's first celebrity interview. Once Matt got the first one out of the way, he wanted to grab a couple more to add to his resume. We crossed over to the Mets side of the field, where Matt encountered Mike Hessman, a corner infielder.
Hessman was the International League MVP in 2007 and was on the 2008 Olympic baseball team which won a bronze medal. This success hasn't yet translated to major league success, primarily due to his high strike out rate.
As usual for Global Traveler magazine, Matt asked Hessman about travel. Hessman's answer was a bit different than the usual cities mentioned.
Hessman was the International League MVP in 2007 and was on the 2008 Olympic baseball team which won a bronze medal. This success hasn't yet translated to major league success, primarily due to his high strike out rate.
As usual for Global Traveler magazine, Matt asked Hessman about travel. Hessman's answer was a bit different than the usual cities mentioned.
On the Beat with Ron Gardenhire
Sometimes the rain works against us. Sometimes the rain works for us. At Target Field in Minneapolis a few weeks ago, it poured before the game, which caused batting practice to be canceled.
Ordinarily, this would put a major crimp into our interviews. However, this time, it presented an opportunity to talk to Manager Ron Gardenhire in the dugout before his pre-game press conference.
I have always liked Gardy. Even White Sox fans would have to admit that Gardenhire is an excellent manager. He's also a funny guy. As usual, in our interviews for Global Traveler magazine, we talked to Gardenhire about travel. His answers were interesting and amusing.
Ordinarily, this would put a major crimp into our interviews. However, this time, it presented an opportunity to talk to Manager Ron Gardenhire in the dugout before his pre-game press conference.
I have always liked Gardy. Even White Sox fans would have to admit that Gardenhire is an excellent manager. He's also a funny guy. As usual, in our interviews for Global Traveler magazine, we talked to Gardenhire about travel. His answers were interesting and amusing.