Winter Baseball Stories: Jon Matlack and Bob Apodaca Share Their Memor...

Winter Baseball Stories: Jon Matlack and Bob Apodaca Share Their Memor...

WGBB Sports Talk New York

4 days ago·WGBB Radio

55 min

Episode Description

Join us for an engaging discussion on Sports Talk New York as we dive into the careers of two former Mets pitchers, Jon Matlack and Bob Apodaca. Matlak, a left-hander who made his mark in the early 1970s, shares insights about his journey from a promising rookie to a respected pitching coach, highlighting his unique experiences, including facing the legendary Roberto Clemente. Apodaca, who transitioned from player to pitching coach, reflects on his time with the Mets and the challenges of coaching in a high-pressure environment, particularly in Colorado. The conversation touches on the evolution of pitching, the impact of injuries in baseball, and the ongoing discussion about the prevalence of Tommy John surgeries among young players. With anecdotes and personal stories, this episode offers a nostalgic look at baseball's past while addressing current trends in the sport.

Show Details:

Bill Donohue hosts an engaging episode of Sports Talk New York that features in-depth conversations with former New York Mets pitchers John Matlack and Bob Apodaca. The episode opens with Bill's warm welcome and an overview of the current sports landscape, including an update on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. As the conversation unfolds, listeners are transported back to the early 1970s, a transformative period for the Mets, with Matlak sharing anecdotes from his rookie season in 1972. Matlack reflects on his meteoric rise, including winning the National League Rookie of the Year and his unique experiences facing legends like Roberto Clemente. The discussion touches upon the pressures of being a young athlete in the spotlight, the evolution of pitching strategies, and the camaraderie among teammates that shaped their careers.

The episode takes a poignant turn as Matlack reflects on the emotional and physical challenges of professional baseball, including the infamous game where he faced Clemente. His recollections highlight the unpredictability of the sport and the fine line between success and failure. Apodaca joins the conversation later, sharing his own journey from a promising prospect in the Mets' farm system to a successful pitching coach. His insights into the nuances of mentoring young pitchers in today’s game offer a fascinating perspective on how the sport has evolved. The duo's chemistry and shared experiences create a rich tapestry of baseball history, making it clear that while the game may change, the core values of hard work and dedication remain steadfast.

Listeners will appreciate the nostalgic storytelling, the lessons learned on and off the field, and the camaraderie that resonates throughout the discussion. The episode encapsulates the spirit of baseball, blending personal narratives with broader themes of perseverance, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence in sports. As the episode wraps up, Bill encourages his audience to stay engaged with the upcoming baseball season, teasing future guests and more insightful discussions to come. This episode is not just about baseball; it’s a reflection on life, growth, and the bonds formed through the love of the game.

Takeaways:

  • The podcast featured a discussion with former Mets pitchers John Matlack and Bob Apodaca, emphasizing their careers and experiences.
  • John Matlack recalled his debut game where he faced the legendary Tony Perez, who hit a crucial home run against him.
  • Bob Apodaca shared insights on the challenges of pitching in high altitude, specifically in Colorado with the Rockies.
  • The conversation touched on the evolution of pitching injuries, particularly the increase in Tommy John surgeries among young players.
  • Both guests reflected on the impact of coaching styles and how they influenced their approach to mentoring young pitchers.
  • The episode concluded with discussions about the upcoming Baseball Hall of Fame announcements and its significance for baseball fans.

Chapters:

  • 00:27 - Introduction to Sports Talk New York
  • 08:31 - The Transition from Player to Coach
  • 17:25 - The Business of Baseball
  • 19:34 - Transitioning to Coaching and Family History
  • 36:19 - Reflecting on the Mets' Past
  • 44:15 - The Evolution of Pitching Techniques
  • 53:03 - The Transition to Coaching

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