Hot Stove Baseball Podcast (Audio) 2nd Inning

Smokies broadcaster Mick Gillispie and veteran Major League Baseball Scout Gary Hughes discuss an array of topics. This show starts with a breakdown of the latest developments concerning Japanese pitcher Masahiro Tanaka. Gary explains the changes in MLB/Japan posting rules. Then sites his experience scouting players in Japan and how they transitioned to Major League Baseball. The two speculate on who might sign Tanaka and what he would add to a pitching staff.

Rakuten Eagles pitcher Masahiro Tanaka celebrates after defeating the Seibu Lions to clinch. Photo Courtesy of (AP Photo/Kyodo News)

The guys move the conversation towards Major League Baseballs rules committee vote to eliminate home-plate collisions. Plays at the plate have long been a dramatic and sometimes dangerous reality of baseball. Injuries to star players like Buster Posey have brought the issue to light. However, some of the greatest moments in the sports history surround home plate dust-ups.

Buster Posey injured on collision at plate. Photo Courtesy of Hoffingtonpost.com

On Wednesday long time Cleveland Indians Broadcast Analyst Mike Hegan passed away. Hegan played 12 seasons for the Yankees, A’s, Brewers and Pilots. Mick reflects on meeting Mike and their conversation about the book “Ball Four” by Jim Bouton. The book was written about the 1969 Seattle Pilots that Mike played on. Gary reflects on his days working with Jim Hegan in the Yankees organization. Jim was also a Major League player who helped Cleveland win a World Series and was Mike’s father.

Mike Hegan before an Indians broadcast. Photo Courtesy of the Sportingnews.com

Mick mentions that he has watched hours of Ken Burns documentary ‘Baseball’ on the MLB Network during the Holidays. He then admits having a fascination of the Negro League’s and wonders how MLB Baseball could have colluded to prevent Black players from the game. He calls Satchel Paige one of the greatest players of all time and says Major Leagues baseball hurt the games history with segregation. Gary agrees, then talks about meeting the late Paige in person. They concluded the segment talking about Buck O’Neil and his contribution to baseball.

Satchel Paige is one of the greatest players in baseball history.

The Rangers signed Shin-Soo Choo to a seven-year $130 million contract this off season. The outfielder receives the third-richest deal this hot stove. Mick was surprised the speedy leadoff hitter would get that kind of a money. Gary however, is quick to disagree and educates how a contact like is market value.