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Back When There Was Baseball

Back When There Was Baseball

By: Rex Naylor
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 Step into the golden era of America's Pastime with "Back When There Was Baseball." Uncover the untold stories, thrilling triumphs, and heart-wrenching trials of the sport's most iconic figures, spanning from the mid-1960s to the mid-1980s - a transformative era when the baton was gracefully handed from titans like Hank Aaron, Orlando Cepeda, Mickey Mantle, and Willie Mays to the new generation of legends like Johnny Bench, George Brett, Mike Schmidt, and Nolan Ryan. Each episode of "Back When There Was Baseball" is more than a mere retrospective; it's a journey through time. We weave together the intricate narratives of these athletes' careers, personal lives, and the broader socio-political context of their times. This is where you'll find the real drama, the human stories behind the home runs and record-breaking performances. But our journey won't stop there. We'll occasionally veer off the beaten path, reaching back into the 1950s - a time many argue was the apex of Major League Baseball. Expect special episodes dedicated to this remarkable decade, spotlighting its most distinguished players and most memorable games. "Back When There Was Baseball" is more than a podcast; it's your ticket to the front row of history. Whether you're a baseball enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who loves a good story, this podcast is your gateway to an era of baseball that shaped the game we know and love today. So, grab your cap, dust off your mitt, and join us for a fascinating journey into the heart of baseball's most legendary moments.2023 Baseball & Softball World
Episodes
  • Back When There Was Baseball: Kevin Kobel

    Back When There Was Baseball: Kevin Kobel
    Oct 23 2025

    Kevin Kobel joins us this week. Kevin came out of Athol Springs, NY which is south of Buffalo on Lake Erie. This is obviously not a good weather area for baseball, but Kevin earned his way to an 11th round draft pick by the Milwaukee Brewers in 1971. He had a fast track to the Majors and appeared in his first game in 1973. Kevin pitched in 1973-1974 and part of 1976 with Milwaukee. He ended up being traded to the Kansas City Royals but was subsequently traded to the New York Mets before appearing in any games. He pitched for the Mets from 1978-1980 until arm problems ended his career. Join us as we take a trip Back When There Was Baseball with our guest Kevin Kobel.
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    40 mins
  • Back When There Was Baseball: Tommy McCraw

    Back When There Was Baseball: Tommy McCraw
    Oct 16 2025

    Tommy McCraw is our guest this week. Tommy, or Mac as he likes to be called, played in the Majors from 1963-1975 with the Chicago White Sox, Washington Senators, Cleveland Indians, California Angels and back with the Indians to finish out his career. Mac played for Ted Williams in 1971 and credits Ted for helping him become a better hitter. He also coached 24 years in the Majors as a hitting coach. Enjoy this trip Back When There Was Baseball as Mac shares some great stories about his baseball career.
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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • Back When There Was Baseball: Rance Mulliniks

    Back When There Was Baseball: Rance Mulliniks
    Oct 9 2025

    Our guest this week is Rance Mulliniks. Rance played from 1977-1992 for the California Angels, Kansas City Royals and the Toronto Blue Jays. He was traded to the Blue Jays in 1982, where he finally got a chance to play every day. He credits Cito Gaston for elevating his hitting. Rance was also an outstanding glove and for several years in the mid-1980s, was one of the top 3rd basemen in the American League. He became a designated hitter later in his career while he helped Kelly Gruber transition to the starting 3rd baseman. Rance won a World Series in his last season, 1992. Due to a back injury that hampered him early in his career, he was forced to retire after the 1992 season. Enjoy this trip Back When There Was Baseball with our guest Rance Mulliniks.
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    1 hr and 1 min
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