Hold My Cutter

Game Designs
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Former Big League Catcher, Michael Mckenry & long-time broadcaster, Greg Brown team up for a one-of-a-kind podcast centered around baseball & stogies. Fascinating in-person guests include present & former players, managers, broadcasters, writers & other personalities, from politics to pop culture. Laugh, learn & live a little! with "Hold My Cutter" Reviews '"'Hold My Cutter' is an absolute Smoke Show"…...Sports Podcast News. 'Hold My Cutter' CUTS to the chase & gets listeners engaged RIGHT OFF THE BAT" Podcaster National. "If there is a better Podcast out there, we haven't seen or heard it. Hands down, Brown & Mckenry are blazing new trails for the entire industry. I can't recommend, 'Hold My Cutter' enough!" Podcast Entertainment Weekly Magazine.Email: Holdmycutter@gmail.com

  1. Brian O'Neill's Remarkable Life Story

    25 JUILL.

    Brian O'Neill's Remarkable Life Story

    Send us a text Brian O'Neill's journey from surviving a near-death experience to becoming one of Pittsburgh's most beloved columnists reads like a chapter from a novel – except every word is true.  At 23, O'Neill was sucked through a storm drain pipe during a flash flood in Danville, Virginia, an experience he recounts with both terror and humor. "I honestly thought God was going to kill me in a sewer in Danville, Virginia," he shares. This brush with death unexpectedly launched his journalism career when his published account caught the attention of editors at larger papers, eventually leading him to the Pittsburgh Press in 1988. For 32 years, O'Neill chronicled Pittsburgh through his distinctive columns, developing a deep appreciation for what he calls "The Paris of Appalachia." His perspective on the city's unique position – straddling the Northeast, Midwest, and South – offers profound insight into Pittsburghers' character: "They have the work ethic of Midwesterners, can get in your face like Northeasterners, but they're also friendly like Southerners." Baseball emerges as O'Neill's lifelong passion throughout the conversation. From witnessing Willie Mays' first home run as a Met to analyzing the Pirates through his "Stats Geek" column, O'Neill represents the quintessential thoughtful fan. His memories of the electric 2013 Wild Card game and appreciation for underrated Pirates like Brian Giles and Jack Wilson speak to someone who understands baseball's soul – its unpredictability and personal stories beneath the statistics. What truly shines through is O'Neill's storytelling gift and authentic love for Pittsburgh. Whether recounting his humorous feud with former County Coroner Cyril Wecht or explaining how he fulfilled his childhood dream of living close enough to walk to baseball games, O'Neill demonstrates why his perspective resonated with readers for over three decades. Join us for this remarkable conversation with a true Pittsburgh treasure. What strange twists of fate have shaped your life? We'd love to hear your story in the comments. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!!!! www.holdmycutter.com

    1 h 7 min
  2. Mayo From Minor League to Major Impact

    6 MAI

    Mayo From Minor League to Major Impact

    Send us a text Jonathan Mayo didn't set out to become baseball's prospect guru, but after more than two decades covering future stars before anyone knows their names, he's become the voice baseball fans trust to identify tomorrow's talent. In this revealing conversation, Mayo takes us behind the curtain of baseball talent evaluation, sharing how his journey from newspaper journalism to MLB.com transformed into a specialized career tracking the game's brightest young prospects. From his early days walking past Frank Robinson's office where future Padres GM AJ Preller worked as an assistant, Mayo's career has given him unique access to stars before they were stars. What truly sets Mayo apart is his approach to prospect evaluation—balancing old-school scouting with modern analytics. "I'm a reporter," Mayo explains, describing how he collects insights from scouts and executives rather than relying solely on his own observations. This methodology has allowed him to build relationships with players from high school through the major leagues, with many stars appreciating that he was "the first one who ever wrote about me." The conversation delves into fascinating territory around player development philosophy, highlighting the dangers of organizations leaning too heavily on either analytics or traditional scouting. Mayo advocates for multi-sport athletes and appreciates teams willing to bet on raw athleticism rather than just refined skills. He shares stories of under-the-radar prospects who surprised everyone and the human element that statistics can't capture—how players handle adversity, their feel for the game, and what makes them tick. Whether you're a die-hard baseball fan wanting to understand how future stars are identified or simply curious about the human stories behind prospect evaluation, Mayo's insights reveal why baseball development remains as much art as science—and why that's what makes the game so special. Have you ever wondered how baseball's next superstars are discovered? Listen now to hear from the man who's made a career finding tomorrow's talent before anyone else knows their names. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!!!! www.holdmycutter.com

    50 min
  3. The 84 Days That Changed Everything

    29 AVR.

    The 84 Days That Changed Everything

    Send us a text What drives someone to walk away from a stable career to chase their dream? Joanne Harrop did exactly that, leaving behind a decade in office equipment sales to pursue her passion for sports writing. With remarkable determination, she offered to write for free for local publications until finally breaking through as the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review's first full-time female sports reporter in 1997. Sitting at Burned by Rocky Patel (which she was the first to feature when it opened), Harrop captivates us with stories from her 28-year journalism career. Instantly recognizable by the stylish hats she wears daily—a tradition started 15 years ago while covering fashion—she's evolved from sports reporting to becoming a celebrated features writer covering everything from food to real estate. Along the way, she's interviewed legends like Michael Jordan and Billie Jean King, while never forgetting Jim Leyland's advice to "act like you've been there before." The conversation takes a profound turn when Harrop shares the experience that led to her book, "A Daughter's Promise." When COVID-19 forced nursing homes to lock down in March 2020, Harrop faced an impossible choice regarding her 93-year-old mother: leave or stay indefinitely. Without hesitation, she moved in, honoring a promise made to her father years earlier. What began as a supposed two-week closure stretched into 84 days, during which her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and eventually passed away. Her journal entries from this period became a National Edward R. Murrow Award-winning article and ultimately her book. Through laughter, tears, and Pittsburgh sports memories, Harrop reminds us of journalism's evolving nature and the profound connection between mother and daughter. Her simple explanation for staying when others couldn't—"She would have done the same for me"—encapsulates a love story that transcends circumstances. Pick up "A Daughter's Promise" to experience the full journey of a woman who found her voice by following her heart. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!!!! www.holdmycutter.com

    53 min
  4. What Happens When the Mask Comes Off?

    14 AVR.

    What Happens When the Mask Comes Off?

    Send us a text Mike "Spanky" LaValliere pulls no punches as he takes us behind home plate for a candid look at baseball through a catcher's eyes. From his days with the Cardinals to becoming a Gold Glove winner and fan favorite with the Pittsburgh Pirates, LaValliere's journey reveals the hidden complexities of one of baseball's most demanding positions. With refreshing honesty, Spanky tackles the evolution of catching techniques, expressing serious concerns about today's one-knee approach: "I don't understand the catching that's going on right now... at the lower levels, if you're on a knee, you're not doing any service." His breakdown of what made him successful defensively offers invaluable insights for players and coaches alike. The conversation turns particularly fascinating when LaValliere pulls back the curtain on catcher-umpire relationships in the pre-analytics era. His stories of umpires expanding the strike zone for mouthy batters and the importance of game management over rigid strike zones highlight just how dramatically baseball has changed. When asked about his relationship with umpires, LaValliere's insider perspective is priceless: "If one of the hitters was a little mouthy, you get a little tap... move a little further outside." Perhaps most compelling are LaValliere's raw, emotional reflections on the Pirates' magical 1990-92 division title runs, culminating in the heartbreaking 1992 NLCS loss featuring Sid Bream's infamous slide. Even decades later, Spanky maintains: "I still believe that I got that back leg before," and reveals he couldn't watch the replay for fifteen years afterward. His stories about teammates like Barry Bonds ("the best player I ever saw, bar none") and Bob Walk offer delightful glimpses into clubhouse dynamics from a golden era of Pirates baseball. Whether you're a catching enthusiast, Pirates fan, or simply love authentic baseball stories from someone who lived them, LaValliere's blend of technical knowledge, humor, and heartfelt reflection makes this episode essential listening. Subscribe now for more conversations with the game's most insightful personalities! THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!!!! www.holdmycutter.com

    1 h 20 min
  5. The Medical Side of Major League Baseball: Dr. Pat DeMeo's Journey

    7 AVR.

    The Medical Side of Major League Baseball: Dr. Pat DeMeo's Journey

    Send us a text What happens when the players break? Dr. Pat DeMeo takes us into the sacred space of the Pittsburgh Pirates' trainer's room at LECOM Park to reveal the hidden world of Major League Baseball medicine. Growing up as a Yankees fan in 1960s New York, DeMeo never imagined he'd one day become the Pirates' medical director and head of orthopedic surgery at Allegheny Health Network. With remarkable candor, he shares the unexpected path that led him to this rare position – one of only 30 MLB medical directors in the world – and the steep learning curve he faced during his first years with the organization. Behind every pitcher's devastating injury or miraculous comeback lies an intricate dance between medical science and the business of baseball. Dr. DeMeo pulls back the curtain on how these decisions unfold, revealing the seasonal rhythm that dictates his work from spring training physicals to draft preparations and trade deadline medical evaluations. His philosophy remains steadfast through it all: "I don't represent management. I represent the player." The conversation takes a dramatic turn when DeMeo recounts saving a man's life on the field during spring training, performing CPR and using a defibrillator while players watched on bended knee. He describes Jung Ho Kang's catastrophic 2015 knee injury as "the worst baseball injury I've ever seen – worse than anything in football" and details the innovative surgical approach that allowed Kang to return to play when the odds seemed impossible. From AJ Burnett's transformative impact on team chemistry to the emotional challenges of forming bonds with players who might be "here today, gone tomorrow," Dr. DeMeo provides a deeply human perspective on medicine at the highest level of sports. His stories reveal not just the physical demands of baseball, but the mental fortitude required from both players and the medical professionals who care for them. Want more insider baseball stories? Subscribe to Hold My Cutter for conversations with the personalities who make baseball America's most storied game. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!!!! www.holdmycutter.com

    56 min
  6. The Last Letter That Changed Everything

    31 MARS

    The Last Letter That Changed Everything

    Send us a text Baseball journeys rarely follow a straight path, and Sean Casey's story proves just how winding and meaningful that road can be. The man known as "The Mayor" opens up about the Pittsburgh mentors who shaped his career long before he reached the majors, revealing the profound impact of figures like Joe Ringel and Frank Porco who believed in him when college scouts weren't calling. In this emotionally charged conversation, Casey takes us back to his teenage years when his father delivered the tough message that would change his life: "Nobody's coming for you." That lesson sparked a determination that led him to write 31 college recruitment letters—the final one opening the door that would eventually lead to a stellar MLB career. The podcast captures several tearful moments, including a surprise live call to Joe Ringel, the man who took teenage Casey to Three Rivers Stadium for batting practice sessions that helped him develop into a .296 hitter against lefties. When discussing his trade to his hometown Pirates, Casey's voice breaks as he describes the pride of representing Pittsburgh and seeing his family in the stands. Casey also shares fascinating insights from his recent stint as Yankees hitting coach, discussing the delicate balance between analytics and simplicity in modern baseball. His perspective on transitioning from player to coach to broadcaster offers valuable wisdom about life after playing days end. Whether recounting borrowing Manny Ramirez's bat for his first MLB hit or describing the Pittsburgh dedication to community that shaped his character, Casey's stories illuminate why baseball connections run so deep. For anyone who understands that sports careers are built on the shoulders of unsung heroes, this conversation will remind you why we fall in love with the game in the first place. Check out Hold My Cutter podcast for more conversations with baseball's most insightful personalities. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!!!! www.holdmycutter.com

    58 min
  7. The Mayor Speaks: Sean Casey on Baseball, Life, and Finding Joy in the Game

    24 MARS

    The Mayor Speaks: Sean Casey on Baseball, Life, and Finding Joy in the Game

    Send us a text "Is there any chance you might have polio?" That unforgettable question from Terry Francona to Sean Casey after getting thrown out twice in two days perfectly captures the essence of baseball culture—where humor transforms frustration and builds lasting relationships. Sean "The Mayor" Casey joins us for a captivating conversation that feels like sitting in the dugout with one of baseball's most beloved personalities. With infectious enthusiasm and storytelling prowess, Casey shares remarkable moments from his 12-year MLB career and his successful transition to broadcasting.  From growing up a Pirates fan to hitting the first home run at PNC Park (ironically as a Cincinnati Red), Casey's baseball journey has poetry written all over it. He remains the only player in MLB history to record the first hit in two different ballparks—Milwaukee's Miller Park and Pittsburgh's PNC Park—earning his bat a place in Cooperstown. Casey offers fascinating insights into his brief but impactful experience as Yankees hitting coach in 2023, revealing why it might be "the hardest job in sports." His observations about the relationships between players, coaches, and managers illuminate how trust can transform careers. The way Jack McKeon's simple vote of confidence turned his rookie season around proves that sometimes leadership isn't about mechanical tweaks—it's about human connection. What makes this conversation truly special is Casey's perspective on failure. "Failure is information," he says, "not an indication of worth." After 17 years at MLB Network—longer than his playing career—Casey's passion for baseball remains undimmed, reminding us why they call him "The Mayor" of the game. Have you ever had a coach who transformed your confidence with just a few words? Share your story in the comments! SERVANT LEADER (CASEY’S CLUBHOUSE) Casey’s Clubhouse of the South Hills is rooted in baseball but offers much more, creating a welcoming space where individuals with disabilities can connect and grow. Through our programs, we provide inclusive opportunities that extend beyond the field, fostering relationships and building a stronger, more supportive community. Serving over 60 zip codes in Western PA, Casey’s Clubhouse strengthens connections between families, volunteers, and local organizations, offering a range of activities that encourage belonging and participation in the broader hometown environment. https://www.caseysclubhouse.org/ MENTAL PERFORMANCE COACH (Break Through Pro) Sean has been a long time mental and physical performance coach to coaches,  athletes, entertainers, and high achievers, using the tools he employed during his highly successful baseball career, giving them access to their superpowers within. https://www.seancaseylive.com/breakthroughpro PODCASTER https://youtube.com/@themayorsofficewithseancasey?si=0FtiYtTk5R0KbaGU THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!!!! www.holdmycutter.com

    1 h
  8. Unearthed: Forgotten Baseball Heroes and Their Unmarked Graves

    18 MARS

    Unearthed: Forgotten Baseball Heroes and Their Unmarked Graves

    Send us a text Unearthed: Forgotten Baseball Heroes and Their Unmarked Graves When Brendan Schuster discovered that Honus Wagner was buried just 15 minutes from his home, he never imagined this curiosity would evolve into a profound mission to honor forgotten baseball heroes. In this deeply moving episode, we journey with Brendan through Pittsburgh's cemeteries as he uncovers the unmarked graves of Negro League players who shaped America's pastime yet were denied proper recognition even in death. Brendan takes us back to 2006 when a chance encounter with Buck O'Neil—the charismatic Negro League legend—transformed his understanding of baseball history. After meeting Vince Chiarmella during the pandemic and discovering their shared passion for baseball burial sites, the two launched the Josh Gibson Unmarked Grave Project, dedicated to identifying and properly marking the final resting places of Negro League players. The stories Brendan shares are equal parts detective work and historical preservation. From finding Ernest "Pud" Gooden's burial site to connecting with the descendants of Willis Moody, each marker placed represents not just a name etched in stone but a legacy restored. Most touching is how this project has inspired the next generation—seventh-graders at Seneca Valley raised money selling lollipops to fund a grave marker, creating a connection to history they'll carry throughout their lives. While the project has successfully marked 11 players' graves in Allegheny County, with 10 more identified, Brendan reveals the staggering truth that an estimated 3,000 Negro League players lie in unmarked graves across the country. His mission continues to grow, connecting communities to their forgotten heroes one headstone at a time. Discover how you can support this remarkable initiative by visiting jgfmemorialmarkers.org and help ensure that these extraordinary athletes—who played three games a day with subpar equipment while sleeping on suitcases—finally receive the recognition they deserve. Josh Gibson Foundations (Unmarked Grave) http://www.jgfmemorialmarkers.org THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!!!! www.holdmycutter.com

    1 h 7 min
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À propos

Former Big League Catcher, Michael Mckenry & long-time broadcaster, Greg Brown team up for a one-of-a-kind podcast centered around baseball & stogies. Fascinating in-person guests include present & former players, managers, broadcasters, writers & other personalities, from politics to pop culture. Laugh, learn & live a little! with "Hold My Cutter" Reviews '"'Hold My Cutter' is an absolute Smoke Show"…...Sports Podcast News. 'Hold My Cutter' CUTS to the chase & gets listeners engaged RIGHT OFF THE BAT" Podcaster National. "If there is a better Podcast out there, we haven't seen or heard it. Hands down, Brown & Mckenry are blazing new trails for the entire industry. I can't recommend, 'Hold My Cutter' enough!" Podcast Entertainment Weekly Magazine.Email: Holdmycutter@gmail.com

Informations

  • Créateur
    Game Designs
  • Années d’activité
    2024 - 2025
  • Épisodes
    61
  • Classement
    Tout public
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Hold My Cutter
  • Site Web de l’émission
    Hold My Cutter