Rounders: A History of Baseball in America
By Jeffrey A. Lambert
Rounders: A History of Baseball in AmericaAug 28, 2018
Baseball Innovations: The Batting Helmet
Learn about the evolution of baseball's batting headgear and its significant changes over the past 100+ years.
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This Week in Baseball History: May 6-12
Enjoy this free preview of our bonus show, "This Week in Baseball History." If you like what you hear, you can get future episodes for free by signing up at rounders.substack.com.
Book Spotlight - The New York Game: Baseball and the Rise of a New City
Kevin Baker joins me in our latest episode to discuss his upcoming book, 'The New York Game: Baseball in the Rise of a New City,' which explores the origins and impact of baseball in New York City over the past 200 years. The book delves into the exclusion of black players, baseball's cultural and societal influence, and the notable players who shaped the game.
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Check out the new companion show "Top of the First" for daily baseball-inspired motivational thoughts.
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Rating the 2024 Baseball Hall of Fame Inductions (w/ John Vampatella)
We’re rating the most recent inductions into the Baseball Hall of Fame. I've invited back an old friend of the show, John Vampatella.
We’ve going to cover the 2024 Baseball Hall of Fame inductees and if we agree with the selections. Then we’ll discuss who they may have missed and round out our show with the biggest snubs in HoF history and we think should be enshrined.
John is the author of The Forgotten Game, book that covers game five of the 2004 ALCS between the Yankees and the Red Sox. We him back on in October 2021 to discuss the book’s release. Check out the episode here. He also discusses his most recent release entitled the 53rd Man.
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Team Autopsies: The St. Louis Browns
The St. Louis Browns were a Major League Baseball team based in St. Louis, Missouri, from 1902 to 1953. As a member of the American League, they had their moments of prominence but never clinched a World Series title.
Discover the cross-town rival to the Cardinals and the stomping grounds of George Sisler - today on Rounders: A History of Baseball in America.
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Only this January, order your batch of Magic Mind!
Crush your 2024 new year resolutions, fully focused. You get one month for free when you subscribe for three months at:
https://www.magicmind.com/JANrounders
Use my code:ROUNDERS20
*It’s an extra 20% off, which gets you to a 75% off. This only lasts ONE MORE WEEK, so hurry up before it goes away.
How Was Baseball Invented?
Historically, the United States has called baseball “America’s Pastime.” To say the sport is a purely native invention, though, is only half the story. Baseball, like America, is the result of many cultural infusions. It’s the result of a melting pot of activities. So, let’s explore baseball’s origins together on today's episode.
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Only this January, order your batch of Magic Mind!
Crush your 2024 new year resolutions, fully focused. You get one month for free when you subscribe for three months at:
https://www.magicmind.com/JANrounders
Use my code:ROUNDERS20
*It’s an extra 20% off, which gets you to a 75% off. This only lasts until the end of January, so hurry up before it goes away.
Gone too Soon: Thurman Munson
Picture this: it’s a sunny day at Yankee Stadium in the 1970s, excitement filling the air. You take your seat, and there he is—Thurman Munson, the heartbeat of the New York Yankees.
In those moments, you witness Munson's incredible talent on the field. Little do you know, fate has a different plan for him. His career would be cut short, but Thurman Munson's legacy has endured.
Let’s re-discover his life, career, and what occurred that made him gone too soon.
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Only this January, order your batch of Magic Mind!
Crush your 2024 new year resolutions, fully focused. You get one month for free when you subscribe for three months at:
https://www.magicmind.com/JANrounders
Use my code:ROUNDERS20
*It’s an extra 20% off, which gets you to a 75% off. This only lasts until the end of January, so hurry up before it goes away.
SNEAK PEEK: A New Daily Motivational Podcast for Baseball Fans
Hi Everyone! I'm excited to announce the kick-off of the latest show in the Rounders universe. It's called "Top of the 1st."
How is it different than the main show? I'll share one short lesson (less than 5 min) each day to help you get inspired and motivated for the most important game - your life.
I create these entries based on baseball history, sharing the events, triumphs, and practical advice from athletes and fans of America’s game.
I'm putting out the first episode for you to try. If you want future daily entries, head on over to rounders.substack.com to subscribe for free.
Thanks in advance for listening - here’s your daily message.
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Music by Breakz Studios from Pixabay
History's Worst MLB Winter Meeting Trades
As a baseball fan, you've undoubtedly seen teams make season-changing deals during the MLB Winter Meetings. These high-stakes sessions have been the birthplace of some truly impressive trades in baseball history.
However, not all negotiations that have taken place during these winter meetings have proved fruitful. In fact, some have gone down in history as the worst trades ever.
Ready to delve into the world of MLB trade blunders from the Winter Meetings? Let's start!
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(Ad-Free) History's Worst MLB Winter Meeting Trades
As a baseball fan, you've undoubtedly seen teams make season-changing deals during the MLB Winter Meetings. These high-stakes sessions have been the birthplace of some truly impressive trades in baseball history.
However, not all negotiations that have taken place during these winter meetings have proved fruitful. In fact, some have gone down in history as the worst trades ever.
Ready to delve into the world of MLB trade blunders from the Winter Meetings? Let's start!
Warren Spahn: From the Battlefield to the Ballfield
Explore the remarkable journey of Warren Spahn, one of baseball's greatest left-handed pitchers, who bravely served in World War II before dominating the major leagues.
We'll uncover Spahn's early days, heroic military service, and legendary baseball career, highlighting his character, leadership, and enduring legacy - on Rounders: A History of Baseball in America.
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(Ad-Free) Warren Spahn: From the Battlefield to the Ballfield
Explore the remarkable journey of Warren Spahn, one of baseball's greatest left-handed pitchers, who bravely served in World War II before dominating the major leagues.
We'll uncover Spahn's early days, his heroic military service, and his legendary baseball career, highlighting his character, leadership, and enduring legacy.
Team Autopsies: The Washington Senators
Today, we journey back to the nation's capital to unravel the tale of a team that once graced Washington, D.C baseball fields.
A team that witnessed the highs of championship glory and the lows of relocation...twice.
Grab your mitt and join us as we dive deep into the history of...The Washington Senators.
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(Ad-Free) Team Autopsies: The Washington Senators
Today, we journey back to the nation's capital to unravel the tale of a team that once graced the diamond fields of Washington, D.C. A team that witnessed the highs of championship glory and the lows of relocation.
Grab your mitt, put on your vintage cap, and join us as we dive deep into the history of...The Washington Senators.
This Week in Baseball History: Sept 25-Oct 1
Nolan Ryan reaches 7 no-no's, Babe Ruth calls his shot, and Willie Mays makes "the catch"
Herb Washington: Professional Baserunner
Dive into the fascinating career of Herb Washington, a former world-class sprinter turned professional baserunner for the Oakland Athletics.
Today, on Rounders: A History of Baseball in America
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(Ad-Free) Herb Washington: Professional Baserunner
Dive into the fascinating career of Herb Washington, a former world-class sprinter turned professional baserunner.
This Week in Baseball History: Sept 18-24
A fan helps the Yankees win a game, Glavine wins 20 games for 6 seasons straight, a rising star is murdered, and much more!
Baseball's 8 Most Unbreakable Records
In this episode, we’re paying homage to the most unbreakable records in MLB history and the athletes who dared to chase them. We'll examine why these records remain unbroken and who’s come close without getting over the bar.
Let's witness greatness, together.
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(Ad-Free) Baseball's 8 Most Unbreakable Records
In this episode, we’re paying homage to the most unbreakable records in MLB history and the athletes who dared to chase them. We'll examine why these records remain unbroken and who’s come close without getting over the bar.
Fact vs. Fiction: Ty Cobb
In this episode, we'll delve into the captivating world of baseball folklore and explore the truth vs. legend surrounding one of the game's most iconic figures - Ty Cobb.
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This Week in Baseball History 7/24-7/30
The "Pine Tar Game" game changes baseball, Honus Wagner hits a grand slam at 41, Babe Ruth makes his last public appearance, and more!
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The Jacksonville Lunatics and Why Team Names Change (w/ Dr. Joe Squillace)
We're exploring that topic with Dr. Joe Squillace through the Lens of the Jacksonville Lunatics and mental asylums in the 19th Century.
You're not going to want to miss this interview - today on Rounders: a History of Baseball in America.
(Ad-Free) The Jacksonville Lunatics & Why Team Names Change (w/ Dr. Joe Squillace)
(this is the ad-free version for paid subscribers - released 24 hours before the main show)
What causes baseball team names to change over time? What makes a club's name acceptable during one period of history but then becomes unacceptable as time progresses?
We're exploring that topic with Dr. Joe Squillace through the Lens of the Jacksonville Lunatics and mental asylums in the 19th Century.
You're not going to want to miss this interview - today on Rounders: a History of Baseball in America.
TWIBH: July 17-26
The first unassisted triple play occurs, Joe DiMaggio's hitting streak ends, and meet baseball's first ambidextrous pitcher.
Team Autopsies: The Brooklyn Dodgers
Delve into the rich history of the Brooklyn Dodgers in this comprehensive 'Baseball Team Autopsies' series installment.
Explore the team's origins, notable players, iconic Ebbets Field, and the enduring legacy left after their move to Los Angeles.
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The Most Amazing Baseball Parks That Were Never Built
Every MLB ballpark has its own unique charm and character. Those small differences from city to city are part of what makes baseball games special. Some of those stadiums never became a reality and instead live on as “what-ifs” for us to consider.
Let's journey through the most amazing baseball parks that were never built.
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Baseball’s Greatest Father-Son Duos
Let’s take a journey together through time and explore the stories of five fathers and their sons who stood at the top of pro baseball. We'll delve into their careers, their impact on the sport, and the legacy they've left behind on the diamond.
So, grab your glove, step up to the plate, and join us as we celebrate the greatest father-son duos in baseball history. Today, on Rounders: A History of Baseball in America.
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Bob Slaybaugh: The One-Eyed Pitching Wonder
This is the inspiring story of Robert "Bob" Slaybaugh, a professional baseball player who, despite losing an eye in a freak accident, continued pursuing his passion for the game, proving that even the most challenging obstacles can be overcome.
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Bobby Balcena: The First Asian American in Major League Baseball
In the annals of baseball history, the name Bobby Balcena may not ring as loudly as some others, but his significance in the sport is undeniable. Balcena holds the distinction of being the first Asian American professional baseball player, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of diverse talent in the sport. Let's explore his story.
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5 Biggest Rules Changes in Baseball History
Over the years, a number of significant changes have been introduced in professional baseball, each one altering the game in its own unique way. Let’s explore five of the biggest rule changes in the sport’s history and examine their impact on the game and their place in baseball lore.
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Team Autopsies: The Philadelphia Athletics
In this episode, we explore the history of the Philadelphia Athletics. This iconic team has a long and storied history, featuring some of the game's most legendary players and groundbreaking innovations. We’ll cover their story, from founding to relocation to the present day.
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James Creighton: Death by Pitch Style
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Chief Thiefs: Baseball’s 5 Greatest Base Stealers
One of the most exciting aspects of baseball is base stealing. It takes skill, speed, and strategy to be successful at swiping bags, and some players have mastered this art form.
Let’s look at some of baseball's top base stealers over the years and examine their techniques for success. Today on Rounders: A History of Baseball in America.
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Roots of Greatness: Mookie Betts
Today we're continuing our series, "Roots of Greatness," where we explore the key foundational pieces in a star's life that contributed to their greatness. Today we will learn about Mookie Betts, the star outfielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
We've already done episodes about Mike Trout and Scott Rolen if you'd like to go back and check those out.
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Baseball Team Autopsies: The Homestead Grays
The Homestead Grays were one of the most successful and influential teams in the history of baseball. Let's uncover the team's origins, uniforms, top players, legacy, and more!
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A Hero for All Generations: Honoring the Legacy of Josh Gibson
In this episode, we honor the life and career of Josh Gibson and explore what he means to baseball, both then and now.
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Roots of Greatness: Scott Rolen
In 2023, Scott Rolen was inducted into the Hall of Fame. His distinguished baseball career is a testament to his determination and passion for the game. But what were his foundational keys to success? In this episode, we look at Scott Rolen’s roots of greatness.
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Don Mattingly & The Haircut That Rocked the Baseball World
Don Mattingly played for the New York Yankees from 1982 to 1995 and was a beloved player and fan favorite. However, during one fateful season, "The Don's" signature hairstyle got him into a conflict you have to hear to believe. Let’s take a look at the haircut that rocked the baseball world!
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Baseball's First Long-Term Contract
Baseball in the 21st century has seen no shortage of long-term deals for the game's best players. But fifty years ago, there were no such contracts. That all changed when one team decided to go all-in on a standout pitcher that could take them all the way. Who was he? Why offer such a big contract? How did he perform? Today, let's learn about baseball's first long-term contract on Rounders: A History of Baseball in America.
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The Greatest Pinch Hitters in Baseball History
In this video, I'm counting down the five greatest pinch hitters in baseball history.
Now, if you're like me, you love a good pinch hit. These guys were some of the most clutch players to ever step up to the plate, and they all made their mark on the game. So without further ado, let's get started.
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Fans Behaving Badly: Banned for Life Edition
Baseball is a sport that brings out the best in people, but sometimes fans can behave very badly. In this episode, we reveal even more stories of some of the worst-behaved baseball fans and the memorable actions they took. Today on Rounders: A History of Baseball in America.
Show Notes
- See the fan who threw the ball at Alex Verdugo
- See Adam Jones recount his experience at Fenway in this video
- See the flashers at the Astros/Nats game
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Roots of Greatness: Mike Trout
What makes a great athlete? Is it natural talent, hard work, or a combination of both? In this episode, we'll take a look at some of the greatest baseball players of all time and follow the unique journeys that made them so successful.
Today we're exploring the roots of the greatness of the Millville Meteor, Prince Fish, MT Hammer - the one and only Mike Trout.
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The Wacky Antics of Turk Wendell
Ever heard of Turk Wendell? This lovable, bizarre relief pitcher had a unique collection of on-field antics combined with solid relief pitching. His time in major league baseball is funny, uplifting, and a perfect story for baseball fans. Today on Rounders a History of Baseball in America.
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Baseball Team Autopsies: The Cleveland Spiders
Before the Guardians, before the Indians, and even before the Nat's, Blues, and Bronchos, Cleveland was home to a professional baseball team you may have missed. We break down the rich history of the Cleveland Spiders in this week's episode!
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Pitchers on Offense: The Top 5 Moments in Baseball History
Some pitchers can hit. Some can't. But when they do, it's a thing of beauty. Check out some of the top moments of pitchers on offense and see for yourself!
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That Time the KKK Played an All-Black Baseball Team
The year is 1925. The KKK is alive and thriving in American culture and politics. A group of Klansmen in Kansas set up a game against a local all-black professional baseball squad.
Would racism and divisiveness win the day? Or would a game of baseball show the local community, and the country at large, unveil racial superiority as the hoax it really is? Find out what happened - today on Rounders: A History of Baseball in America.
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Satchel Paige: 5 Decades of Baseball Greatness
Satchel Paige is one of the most iconic and celebrated players in baseball history. In this episode, learn about his five decades of baseball excellence and see why he remains a role model for players and fans to this day.
Other Episodes to Check Out:
- My episode on Martin Dihigo (another amazing player robbed of a big-league spotlight due to discrimination)
- My episode on Bill Veeck (baseball's most interesting club owner and a friend and supporter of Satchel Paige)
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How the Deaf Community Changed Baseball
They were called “dummies.” But the deaf community’s contribution to baseball is certainly anything but. Learn about the players who helped move baseball forward towards a better game and a more inclusive sport, today on Rounders a History of Baseball in America.
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This Episode's Sponsor:
- Pair offers the best in web hosting services, fully managed dedicated servers, VPS, and domain name registration services. Sign up now and get a FREE month of web hosting! Just visit www.pair.com/free and use promo code QUICKSTART.
Baseball Team Autopsies: The Montreal Expos
Were the Toronto Blue Jays the first MLB team in Canada? Nope. That accolade goes to a franchise that developed one of the best player development systems of all time. That’s right. We’re conducting an autopsy on the Montreal Expos. Today, on Rounders: A History of Baseball in America…
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Fan Corrections
1) The Olympic Stadium was built for the 1976 Summer Olympics, not Winter Olympics, which were actually held in Innsbruck, Austria that year. (Submitted by Joe B.)