WGBB Sports Talk New York

Join host Bill Donohue as he welcomes former MLB pitcher George Culver, who shares insights from his career in baseball and discusses his new book, The Earl of Oildale: "Why Me?". Culver reflects on his journey through the major leagues, highlighting his experiences with teams like the Cleveland Indians and Cincinnati Reds, and the thrill of pitching a no-hitter. Later in the show, Bill is joined by Joe Unitas, son of legendary quarterback Johnny Unitas, who offers a glimpse into his father's life lessons and their lasting impact. Joe discusses the importance of discipline and perseverance, values instilled in him by his father. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of sports history, personal triumphs, and the legacies that shape our lives. Show Details: The latest installment of Sports Talk New York presents a compelling conversation with former MLB pitcher George Culver and Joe Unitas, son of football great Johnny Unitas. Host Bill Donohue engages Culver in a discussion that spans his career highlights, the challenges faced during his time in the majors, and his newly released book, "The Earl of Oildale: Why Me?" Culver reflects on his career journey, detailing memorable moments such as his no-hitter and the camaraderie he experienced with fellow players. He candidly discusses the highs and lows of being an athlete, including the pressures of performing in front of thousands and the impact of mentorship in shaping his career. Transitioning to Joe Unitas, the conversation shifts to the personal legacy left by Johnny Unitas. Joe discusses the life lessons his father imparted, emphasizing the importance of discipline and resilience. He shares anecdotes that highlight how Johnny's upbringing shaped his character, which in turn influenced Joe's own upbringing and values. The foreword of Joe's book, which features contributions from football legends Joe Namath and Dan Fouts, solidifies the respect that Johnny earned throughout his career. The discussion brings to light the parallels between baseball and football, showcasing the shared experiences of athletes in both sports. This episode encapsulates not only the essence of sports but also the enduring values of determination, humility, and the significance of mentorship. Through rich storytelling and personal insights, both guests offer listeners a glimpse into the world of professional sports while reinforcing the idea that the lessons learned on the field are just as valuable off the field. Donohue expertly navigates the narratives, ensuring each guest's journey is celebrated and appreciated, leaving the audience inspired by the power of resilience and the importance of legacy in sports. Takeaways:

Join host Bill Donohue for an engaging conversation on Sports Talk New York as he welcomes a lineup of remarkable guests, including actor and author Mark Metcalf, who discusses his poignant new book, Tim, Tim, Timmy, an exploration of his late brother's life and struggles with mental health. Metcalf reflects on his diverse career, from iconic roles in films like "Animal House" to his work with Twisted Sister and his role as "The Maestro" on Seinfeld, revealing the personal stories behind his creative journey. Bill also welcomes John Hollinger, who co-authored The Basketball 100, a comprehensive guide to the greatest players in NBA history, where he delves into the criteria used for ranking players and the complexities of comparing athletes across different eras. The episode takes a deeper look at the impact of mental health awareness, both in sports and personal lives, highlighting the importance of understanding and supporting those who struggle. As the holiday season approaches, listeners are encouraged to consider meaningful gifts for their loved ones, including the inspiring works of our guests. Show Details: In a thought-provoking episode of Sports Talk New York, host Bill Donohue engages with a trio of distinguished guests who share their insights into the worlds of sports, literature, and personal reflection. The show opens with Donohue's signature warmth, inviting listeners into an exploration of themes ranging from mental health awareness to the complexities of sports analytics. The first guest, Mark Metcalf, renowned for his acting career, discusses his new book, a moving tribute to his brother Tim, who battled depression and dyslexia. Metcalf's candid recounting of his brother's struggles serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding mental health, particularly in sports where pressures often go unspoken. His narrative intertwines personal anecdotes with broader societal issues, encouraging listeners to foster empathy and awareness for those in similar situations. Transitioning seamlessly, the conversation shifts to the realm of basketball as author John Hollinger joins the discussion to delve into his latest work, The Basketball 100. Hollinger presents a fresh perspective on the age-old debate of ranking basketball's greatest players, emphasizing the need to balance statistical analysis with historical context. He introduces his innovative GOAT Points system, which assigns values based on player accomplishments, sparking a lively discussion about the merits of championships versus individual performance. Through Hollinger's lens, listeners gain insight into how the game has evolved and the challenges of assessing players across different eras, from legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to modern-day stars such as Nikola Jokic. As the episode progresses, the blend of personal storytelling and analytical discourse creates a rich tapestry that resonates with a wide audience. Metcalf's heartfelt reflections on family and loss complement Hollinger's data-driven insights, fostering a dialogue that transcends traditional sports talk. The episode concludes with a teaser for the upcoming segment featuring former major league pitcher George Culver, maintaining the audience's engagement and anticipation. This installment of Sports Talk New York encapsulates the essence of sports as not just a game, but a narrative filled with emotion, struggle, and triumph, inviting listeners to reflect on their connections to the athletes and stories that shape the sporting world. Takeaways:

Host Chris Caputo welcomed Justin Jonas from Nassau County Section 8 Athletics to discuss the pressing issues surrounding high school sports, including the importance of sportsmanship and the challenges faced by referees. The conversation highlighted how the organization is taking steps to ensure a positive experience for student-athletes while addressing incidents of poor behavior at games. Later, Mets podcaster James Ciano joined the show to delve into the latest Juan Soto trade rumors, analyzing the implications for both the New York Mets and Yankees in what has become a heated bidding war. The episode wrapped up with AJ Rovner sharing insights on Penn State football and the newly introduced College Football Tournament, emphasizing the team's potential path to success in the playoffs. Tune in for an engaging discussion that covers everything from local athletics to major league trade dynamics. Show Notes: Chris Caputo led a dynamic conversation on the latest episode of Sports Talk New York, featuring a trio of insightful guests. The show opened with Justin Jonas, the Assistant Executive Director of Nassau County Section 8 Athletics. Jonas provided a detailed look into the world of high school sports, highlighting the importance of sportsmanship and the ongoing challenges faced by referees. He shared personal anecdotes from his time overseeing athletic programs, emphasizing the need for better support for officials amid rising tensions in youth sports. The discussion delved into the legislative aspects of maintaining eligibility for high school athletes in the wake of the changing landscape of college athletics, particularly with the emergence of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities. Jonas's passion for fostering a positive environment for young athletes resonated throughout the conversation, as he explained how Section 8 is taking proactive measures to enhance the experience for student-athletes and their families. As the episode progressed, the focus shifted to Major League Baseball with guest James Ciano, a prominent Mets podcaster. Ciano provided an update on the ongoing Juan Soto saga, dissecting the implications of his free agency and the potential bidding war between the New York Yankees and the Mets. With Soto's rumored contract exceeding $700 million, Ciano analyzed the financial strategies of both teams and the broader impact on the MLB landscape. The conversation also touched on the Mets' offseason strategy, with fans eager to see how the organization navigates the competitive free agency market. Ciano's insights into the dynamics of player negotiations and the role of agents like Scott Boras added depth to the discussion, making it clear that strategic maneuvering will be key as teams prepare for the upcoming season. The episode concluded with A.J. Rovner sharing his thoughts on Penn State football and the newly introduced 12-team college football playoff system. Rovner expressed optimism about Penn State's chances after a strong season, despite some lingering doubts about head coach James Franklin's ability to secure wins against top-tier opponents. The conversation highlighted the excitement surrounding the upcoming playoff match against SMU and the potential for Penn State to make a deep run in the tournament. Rovner’s perspective on the atmosphere at Beaver Stadium and the passionate fan base underscored the significance of home-field advantage in college football. This episode of Sports Talk New York not only covered a broad spectrum of sports topics but also engaged listeners with passionate discussions about the future of athletics at all levels, underscoring the deep connections fans have with their teams and the ongoing evolution of sports in the modern era. Takeaways:

The latest episode of Sports Talk New York dives deep into the struggles of the New York Giants, highlighting the team's disappointing performance and the growing frustrations among players and fans alike. Host Mike Guidone, along with co-host Chris Caputo and special guest Connor Clark, engage in a candid discussion about the Giants' lack of effort and direction, with insider A.J. Rovner providing valuable insights from his experiences at MetLife Stadium. The conversation touches on the impact of coaching changes, the need for a new quarterback, and the uncertain future of Daniel Jones as he faces potential release. Additionally, the episode explores the broader landscape of college football, featuring insights on top teams and players as the season heats up. As the hosts reflect on the upcoming Thanksgiving games, they express hope for improvement and the possibility of better days ahead for both the Giants and the Mets. Takeaways:

Host Bill Donohue welcomes former New York Rangers Stanley Cup champ Stephane Matteau, followed by the star of the movie Animal House, Tim Matheson, who talked about his 7 decades in Hollywood. Stephane Matteau, the former New York Rangers player known for his iconic overtime goal in the 1994 Eastern Conference Finals, shares his memorable experiences and reflections on his career in hockey. He discusses his early influences in sports, including his favorite players and teams growing up in Canada, and even touches on his participation in the Little League World Series. Matteau also recounts the significant moments of his career, including his time playing under Coach Mike Keenan and the emotional impact of his famous goal. Joining Bill later in the episode is Tim Matheson, the acclaimed actor and director, who discusses his extensive career in Hollywood, including notable roles in classics like "Animal House" and "The West Wing." The conversation delves into Matheson's experiences working with legendary figures, his insights on acting and directing, and his new book, "Damn Glad to Meet You," where he reflects on his seven decades in the entertainment industry. Show Takeaways:

Host Chris Caputo opens the show talking about how the Giants year-long woes continued in Germany with insights from AJ Rovner. Then Chris invited John Hanson to wrap up the Mets season and discuss off-season free agency ideas. Chris then spoke at length with Joe Jones, a Long Island native and the head coach of the men's basketball team at Boston University, discussing his 14-year tenure and the team's outlook for the upcoming year.

Host Bill Donohue talks with NYS Baseball Hall-of-Fame Director Rene LeRoux, 2024 inductee Ted Green, and Martha Jo Black, daughter of Brooklyn Dodgers’ pitcher Joe Black, being inducted at the 2024 ceremony on November 120th in Troy, NY.

The latest episode of Sports Talk New York dives deep into the ongoing World Series, focusing on the New York Yankees' challenging start against the Los Angeles Dodgers. The hosts, Mike Guidone and Chris Caputo, discuss pivotal moments from the first two games, including the controversial decision to pull ace Garrett Cole after just 88 pitches and the strategic choice to walk Mookie Betts, which ultimately backfired. They reflect on the performance of key players such as Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, emphasizing the need for adjustments in the lineup to spark offensive production. Additionally, the conversation shifts to the struggles of the New York Jets, with sentiments of disappointment surrounding their current season. Throughout the episode, listeners are treated to insights on the dynamics of the Yankees' pitching staff and the challenges they face as they return home for critical games in the series. Takeaways: Chapters:

Host Bill Donohue welcomes actor Mark Metcalf, aka “Doug Nedermeyer” and “The Maestro,” who has written a book, and we’ll discuss that along with all his significant roles. Later, author Jeff Rodimer joins the show to discuss his book, Shadows of Glory.

A whirlwind of New York sports excitement unfolds as host Chris Caputo navigates through the intricate landscape of playoff baseball, focusing on the Yankees and Mets' journeys in their respective series. The show opens with a thorough recap of the Yankees’ conquest over the Royals, featuring insights from Brian Palermo. Listeners are treated to an analysis of key players, particularly Giancarlo Stanton's critical contributions, while the duo also engages in a thoughtful exploration of the Yankees' offensive struggles and how they can overcome them against the Guardians. Caputo emphasizes the importance of timely hitting and the tactical decisions required in the postseason. The discussion seamlessly transitions to the Mets, who have captured the hearts of fans with their underdog journey in the playoffs. Guest John Hanson joins to dissect the Mets' strategies against the Phillies and their upcoming challenges against the formidable Dodgers. Key moments from the games, including Lindor's game-changing performances and the resilience shown by the team, are highlighted, painting a picture of a squad that refuses to back down. This episode not only covers the current state of New York baseball but also encapsulates the passion and fervor of the city’s sports culture, making it a compelling listen for fans everywhere. Takeaways: Companies mentioned in this episode:

Host Bill Donohue dives deep into the intriguing world of sports with two exceptional guests: author Ian O'Connor and former Vikings RB Chuck Foreman. O'Connor discusses his latest book, Out of the Darkness: The Mystery of Aaron Rodgers, shedding light on the complexities of the NFL star's life and career, including his struggles with public perception and personal challenges. O'Connor elaborates on the multifaceted life of Rodgers, highlighting the quarterback's impressive accomplishments alongside the pressures and controversies that have marked his career. The discussion unveils the personal struggles Rodgers faces, particularly his estrangement from his family and the public backlash following his vaccination comments during the pandemic. O'Connor's research, which involved speaking to hundreds of people connected to Rodgers, reveals a portrait of an athlete who is both celebrated and scrutinized, prompting listeners to reflect on the broader implications of fame in the modern age. Foreman, a former running back for the Minnesota Vikings and a future Pro Football Hall-of-Famer, shares his insights on the evolution of the game and reflects on his impactful career. Together, they explore the significance of the human experience behind the sports headlines, touching on themes of resilience and legacy. His reflections provide a rich historical context for understanding the evolution of the game, especially regarding the running back's role, which has transformed dramatically over the years. Foreman’s insights into his playing style, characterized by his famous spin move, illustrate the creativity and skill that defined his career. The conversation also highlights the importance of mental health within the veteran community, emphasizing the role of service dogs through programs like Pups Repatriates. The episode also grapples with significant themes such as mental health, the healing power of the human-animal bond, and the social responsibilities of athletes. O'Connor and Foreman candidly discuss their experiences with mental health issues and the importance of support systems, both for veterans and athletes alike. The dialogue fosters a greater understanding of the societal pressures faced by public figures and emphasizes the need for compassion and empathy. Through a blend of humor, poignant stories, and critical analysis, Donohue crafts an engaging narrative that resonates well beyond the sports realm, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the personal narratives that shape our public figures. Takeaways:

Hosts Mike Guidone and Chris Caputo analyze the high-stakes scenarios unfolding in the National League, particularly focusing on the New York Mets' upcoming doubleheader against the Atlanta Braves. The show captures the tension and anticipation surrounding the playoff race, with the Mets seeking to clinch a postseason spot. As the hosts and special guest Brian Palermo discuss the implications of the recent games, they highlight the Mets' struggles against the Braves, the impact of Hurricane Helene on scheduling, and the strategic decisions facing the team's management. The conversation also touches on key player performances, with particular attention given to Francisco Lindor's pivotal role in revitalizing the team's morale. The show encapsulates the emotional rollercoaster of being a Mets fan, blending insights about player dynamics with the psychological aspects of fanhood, making it a must-listen for baseball enthusiasts navigating the final days of the regular season. Show Takeaways: Teams mentioned in this episode:

Host Bill Donohue welcomes former New York Yankees slugger, Steve “Bye Bye” Balboni, and later talks with author Steve Wiegand about his book The Uncommon Life of Danny O’Connell: A Tale of Baseball Cards, Average Players, and the True Value of America’s Game.

Hosts Mike Guidone and Chris Caputo welcomed professional tennis player and New York native Jamie Loeb to discuss her career on the tour and her insights on the US Open. Later, Brian Palermo also called in to discuss the Yankees run for the division title.

Host Bill Donohue welcomes the great shortstop Omar Vizquel, who speaks candidly about his career and off the field challenges. Later, Bill reminisced with 1986 Mets world champion, Wally Backman.

Host Bill Donohue talks with author Joe Badowski about his new book, 406, and later welcomes Buck Dharma, guitarist from Blue Oyster Cult.

Hosts Mike Guidone and Chris Caputo welcomed professional tennis player and New York native Jamie Loeb to discuss her career on the tour and her insights on the US Open. Later, Brian Palermo called into the show to discuss the Yankees run for the division title.

Host Bill Donohue talks with Hall of Fame outfielder Fred Lynn, followed by a very candid conversation with former Mets manager Mickey Callaway.

Host Andy Suekoff opens the show by talking Jets with "NYJ Mike" of Broadway Jets, discussing early returns from training camp and expectations for the 2024 season. Later, he recalls the US’ showing at the Olympics and how his demeanor changes live on air as the Yankees bullpen blows another game.

Hosts Mike Guidone and Chris Caputo welcomed John Santamaria to discuss all things Jets, and later talked about the Mets current status, and wrapped things up by discussing the Olympic basketball competition.