We Love Our Team

Randy Freking and Jack Greiner

Join Jack Greiner and Randy Freking and their guests for a podcast devoted to the Cincinnati Reds. They will answer the existential question of why so many people love the Reds or as the song goes, why are so many people batty about Cincinnati? Our podcast will feature Reds fans from far and wide. Our guests will include well known people who are Reds fans, including authors who have written books about the Reds, celebrities who are long time Reds fans, social media Influencers, and other other personalities. GO REDS! 

  1. 5d ago

    Season 5, Episode 14: Tom Keefe, Inside Baseball Scouting and Secrets from MLB Scout Tom Keefe

    Send us Fan Mail In this engaging interview, Major League Baseball scout Tom Keefe shares his extensive experience in baseball scouting, his early memories as a fan, and insights into the scouting process, player evaluation, and memorable moments in baseball history. Key Topics Baseball scouting process and evaluationMemorable moments and early memories as a fanInfluence of baseball legends and memorabiliaPlayer personality and mental makeup assessmentMemorable baseball games and experiencesSound Bites "Sitting next to Carol Rose at Crosley Field""Sparky Anderson autographed baseball""Joe Morgan's impact on the game"Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tom Keefe 03:59 Early Memories of Baseball Fandom 11:05 Favorite Players and Managers 17:49 Transition from Swimming to Baseball Scouting 20:26 Scouting Responsibilities and Evaluation Process 36:47 The Scouting Fraternity and Information Sharing 42:13 Categories and Major League Decisions 43:19 Respecting Rivals in Baseball 47:07 Baseball Legends: Mount Rushmore of Players 50:20 Dinner Party with Baseball Icons 54:20 Memorable Baseball Moments 57:19 Favorite Baseball Movies and Walk-Up Songs 01:01:11 Favorite Ballpark Experiences 01:04:08 The Nicest Players in Baseball 01:07:13 Advice for Young Baseball Players 01:10:49 The Whole Town's batty.mp4 Resources Major League BaseballFlorida MarlinsLos Angeles DodgersProphet of the Sandlots (Book)Prasco ParkXavier University BaseballUniversity of Cincinnati BaseballGreat Lakes Summer Collegiate LeagueBill Maseroski's Home Run (Video) Jack thanks the listeners

    59 min
  2. May 26

    Season 5, Episode 13: Dick Williams Unveils Reds' Hidden Stories

    Send us Fan Mail Join us as we delve into the rich history of the Cincinnati Reds with former GM Dick Williams. Discover behind-the-scenes stories, legendary players, and insights into baseball management and fandom. Could the Reds have gotten Shohei? Mr. Williams certainly tried. Would 2012 season have turned out differently if the pitchers were not taking BATTING practice before Game 1 in SF? Dick explains that maybe that answer is yes! Was Marge Schott the expected buyer of the Reds in 1984? Hmmm. Dick tells the story. Did Amir Garrett almost cause the Yasiel Puig not to happen? Listen and enjoy? So much more.... Key Topics Reds history and legacyManagement and decision-making in MLBMemorable games and momentsPlayer and team developmentSound Bites "2019 Pirates almost cost us big time""Bronson Arroyo's cornrows were brutal""Bronson's blonde flow was amazing"Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dick Williams 01:26 Early Memories of Baseball and the Reds 04:09 Reflections on Favorite Players and Managers 10:18 Growing Up in the Reds Family 14:57 Challenges as GM and President of the Reds 16:57 Pride in Leadership and Team Success 20:28 Transitioning to Skyline Chili 27:25 Time Machine Decisions and Rivalries 35:04 Pirates and Umpires: The Game Dynamics 35:59 Mount Rushmore of Reds: Legends and Icons 37:30 Dinner Party with Baseball Legends 38:25 Dream Players: Who Should Be in a Reds Uniform? 41:01 Ballpark Food: The Ultimate Game Snack 42:27 Memorable Moments: Reds History Outside the Ballpark 43:39 Clutch Moments: Who Would You Trust? 44:21 Best Pitch: Who Would You Call? 45:51 Baseball Movies: The Ones That Resonate 46:37 Walk-Up Songs: Setting the Mood 46:52 Favorite Reds Uniforms: Aesthetic Choices 48:00 Utility Players: The Unsung Heroes 48:23 Most Memorable Nights: Highs and Lows 50:02 Amazing Moments: Unforgettable Plays 51:54 Brawl Ready: Who's on Your Team? 53:03 Best and Worst Hair: A Fun Debate 54:14 Speed Demons: Who Wins the Race Jack thanks the listeners

    57 min
  3. May 19

    Season 5, Episode 12: Jim Moehring's Quest for the Holy Grail: Baseball Memories, Cincinnati Development & Reds Favorites

    Send us Fan Mail In this lively episode, Jim Moehring shares stories about his deep-rooted Cincinnati baseball fandom, his journey in establishing Holy Grail, and his affectionate ties to Reds legends and memories. Whether you're a Reds enthusiast or a local history buff, Jim's insights bring the Cincinnati baseball scene to life. Jim's insights reflect a true Cincinnati sports icon's perspective—passionate, humorous, and dedicated to community. His stories of legendary moments and local development showcase the vibrant spirit of Cincinnati baseball and downtown life. Key Topics Covered:  Jim’s earliest memories of Cincinnati Reds and fan experiences as a kid gazing at dry cleaner windows displaying jerseys; His childhood baseball teams, favorite players like Johnny Bench, and the significance of memorabilia; Behind-the-scenes stories of how Johnny Bench personally signed a plaque at Holy Grail; The origins of Holy Grail, how Jim seized the name and built a local sports bar brand; Playing a role in the development of Downtown Cincinnati, including insights on the banks area and its evolution Memorable moments, including the 2015 All-Star Game and legendary Reds games like Billy Bates’ game-winning hit Insights on Reds management decisions, rivals like the Cubs and Cardinals, and players he admires His ideal Reds roster, including players he'd love to see in a Reds uniform today The importance of supporting local independent businesses in Cincinnati; Jim’s legendary restaurant stories, including rushes on opening days and the crazy pace of starting Holy Grail during the Reds' Opening Day; Favorite baseball movies, such as Sandlot, and top moments like the 1990 World Series; The most amazing game moments Jim has witnessed firsthand, including Hernandez’s walk-off homer; His pick for the clutch player to bat in the bottom of the ninth and his chosen Reds pitcher for high-stakes situations; Nostalgic favorites, including Reds from the '90s and legendary figures like Pete Rose and Johnny Bench; Jim’s dream dinner guests, including Reds legends and team staff; and Fun anecdotes involving Reds personalities and local Cincinnati hotspots.  Timestamps:  00:00 - Introduction to Jim Moehring and his Cincinnati baseball roots  02:30 - Jim’s childhood teams and favorite players  04:36 - Johnny Bench tales and memorabilia behind Holy Grail  08:05 - How Holy Grail was established and Cincinnati restaurant scene  09:39 - Holy Grail's early days and downtown development insights  13:21 - Opening Holy Grail during Reds home opener rushes  15:46 - Local support and the importance of independent businesses  19:55 - Ideas for downtown Cincinnati enhancements and arena prospects  23:16 - Stories of Reds' management decisions and rivalries  27:26 - Reds players who made the Mount Rushmore in Jim’s eyes  28:12 - Dream Reds lineup for a dinner party  32:45 - Clutch moments and legendary game highlights  36:06 - Reds players and legends Jim admires most  40:12 - Most memorable Reds game moments witnessed  42:07 - Closing remarks and future hopes for Reds and Cincinnati Connect with Jim Moehring:  Holy Grail Cincinnati Facebook Holy Grail Instagram    Jack thanks the listeners

    44 min
  4. May 12

    Season 5, Episode 11: Justin McGuire and "Baseball By The Book"

    Send us Fan Mail In this engaging episode of "We Love Our Team," hosts Jack Greiner and Randy Freking welcome Justin McGuire, a seasoned journalist and host of the podcast "Baseball by the Book." The conversation delves into Justin's early baseball fandom, his favorite players, and his career journey, including his time as a baseball editor for the Sporting News. Justin shares insights into his podcast, which focuses on baseball literature, and discusses memorable baseball moments and figures. The episode is filled with nostalgic reflections on baseball history, personal anecdotes, and lively discussions about the sport's cultural impact. This summary captures the essence of the episode by highlighting the personal stories and historical insights shared, appealing to both baseball enthusiasts and those interested in storytelling. Top Insights The evolution of baseball leadership reflects broader cultural shifts.Baseball history demonstrates the importance of social context over time.The changing face of baseball strategies reflects a broader realignment of mental models.The craft of sports storytelling preserves cultural memory and shapes values.Emotional connections to iconic moments reveal the power of personal memory in shaping perception.The enduring relevance of classical aesthetics speaks to the principle of design simplicity.Diving into systemic issues through storytelling reveals how narratives shape societal change. Chapters Introduction and Justin’s baseball fandom originsEarly Orioles memories and favorite playersPlaying Little League and managing skillsLegendary managers like Earl Weaver and baseball personality changesJustin’s career in baseball journalism and podcast journeyThe enduring appeal of baseball literature and notable booksHistory of black players before Jackie RobinsonA compelling story from the 1955 Charleston Little League teamThe Yankees late 70s dominance and disliked playersBaseball Mount Rushmore: Ruth, Robinson, Rickey, and MaysThe significance of Marvin Miller in baseball historyFun topics: favorite uniforms, ballpark foods, and memorable momentsFavorite baseball movies like The Bad News Bears and Bull DurhamJustin’s ideal walk-up song and baseball traditionsClassic uniforms and personal favoritesMost memorable visits to the ballpark and game momentsNicest player met in person: Rod CarewJustin’s thoughts on Pete Rose and gambling in baseballFuture baseball stadium visits and closing remarks Jack thanks the listeners

    46 min
  5. May 5

    Season 5, Episode 10: Brendon Cull, President and CEO of Cincinnati Regional Chamber

    Send us Fan Mail Join us as we explore Brendon Cull's journey from baseball fandom to leading the Cincinnati Regional Chamber. Discover insights on Cincinnati's community, sports culture, and economic development, all through Brendan’s engaging stories and expertise. Key Topics Brendon Cull's baseball memories and fandom Impact of professional sports on Cincinnati's economyCincinnati's community development and growthHistorical insights into Cincinnati's sports venues and teamsLeadership and initiatives of the Cincinnati ChamberSound Bites "I came to Cincinnati for Xavier University.""I despise the St. Louis Cardinals.""Johnny Gomes for a bench clearing brawl."Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Brendon Cull and His Baseball Journey 02:50 Transitioning from Dodgers to Reds Fandom 05:30 Brendan's Connection to Cincinnati and Xavier University 10:56 The Role of the Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce 16:01 The Economic Impact of the Reds on Cincinnati 21:23 Cincinnati's Renaissance and Community Growth 23:37 Fan Perspectives and Rivalries in Baseball 27:14 Dinner Party with Reds Greats 30:06 Memorable Reds Moments 33:34 Must-Read Baseball Books 36:02 Best Reds Pitchers for Clutch Situations 36:40 Favorite Baseball Movies 38:06 Walk-Up Songs and Music Influence 39:04 Favorite Reds Uniforms 39:43 Unforgettable Game Experiences 40:26 Meeting Reds Legends 41:44 Choosing a Fighter for a Brawl 42:40 Speed Demons on the Basepaths 43:19 Best Hair in Reds History 44:11 Cincinnati's Rich History and Future Jack thanks the listeners

    46 min
  6. Apr 28

    Season 5, Episode 9: David Pepper, Mr. Cincinnati

    Send us Fan Mail Jack Greiner and Randy Freking welcome David Pepper, a lifelong Cincinnatian and former chairman of the Ohio Democratic Party. The conversation covers David's deep-rooted passion for the Cincinnati Reds, sharing nostalgic memories and discussing favorite players like Eric Davis and Ken Griffey Jr. David also talks about his political journey, his books on gerrymandering, and his candidacy for lieutenant governor alongside Amy Acton. The episode is filled with engaging anecdotes, baseball trivia, and a shared love for Cincinnati sports. Keywords: Cincinnati RedsDavid PepperEric DavisKen Griffey Jr.Ohio Democratic PartyGerrymanderingAmy ActonBaseball nostalgiaCincinnati sportsPolitical journeyChapters: Introduction and Guest Welcome (0:00 - 0:42) Hosts introduce David Pepper and his background.Reds Fandom and Early Memories (0:42 - 2:39) David shares his early experiences as a Reds fan.Favorite Players and Baseball Stories (2:39 - 5:40) Discussion about favorite players like Eric Davis and Ken Griffey Jr.Political Career and Writing (5:40 - 14:18) David talks about his political journey and his books.Running for Lieutenant Governor (14:18 - 17:09) Insights into David's candidacy with Amy Acton.Baseball and Politics (17:09 - 22:32) The intersection of sports fandom and political life.Fun Categories and Personal Stories (22:32 - 42:54) Engaging segments like "Marty McFly" and "Mount Rushmore" of Reds players.Conclusion and Optimism for the Season (42:54 - End) Closing thoughts and excitement for the upcoming baseball season. Jack thanks the listeners

    44 min
5
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

Join Jack Greiner and Randy Freking and their guests for a podcast devoted to the Cincinnati Reds. They will answer the existential question of why so many people love the Reds or as the song goes, why are so many people batty about Cincinnati? Our podcast will feature Reds fans from far and wide. Our guests will include well known people who are Reds fans, including authors who have written books about the Reds, celebrities who are long time Reds fans, social media Influencers, and other other personalities. GO REDS! 

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