Episode 42 (Feb. 22, 2021): Bobby Valentine, Former MLB Player/Manager and Current Athletic Director of Sacred Heart University

If you’re a baseball person, you know Bobby V. But even if you don’t keep up with America’s pastime, there’s still a chance you know this week’s guest for a few reasons: as an ESPN analyst, a restaurant owner in southern Connecticut, or most notably,  a “master of disguise.”

We are honored to have Bobby Valentine on our show this week to reflect on a career with a plethora of accomplishments.  We recall Bobby’s days at USC - from rooming with future Red Sox first baseman Bill Buckner, to his time in the Sigma Chi Fraternity with 3-time Super Bowl Champion coach Mike Holmgren.  Bobby reminisces on nearly stealing home his Major League debut, playing a role in 3 of Nolan Ryan’s no-hitters, and his “catcher’s balk” disguise incident in 1999 as the manager of the New York Mets.  We break down Bobby’s opinions on the future of the game of baseball and the inevitable universal designated hitter rule.  We shift gears to chat with Bobby about his role as the Athletic Director at Sacred Heart University, the gaps he had to fill going from professional to collegiate athletics, and what’s to come for the SHU Pioneers in the near future.

BEERS:  Vermont is known for its skiing scene and scenic outdoor activities, but its craft beer market is one of the best in New England. Will tries Big Bang by Foley Brothers Brewing - an unfiltered single IPA with some of our favorite hops, he thinks this is one you should have on the list.  Jake goes back to his Connecticut roots and reviews a classic - Sea Hag by New England Brewing Company.  A staple at any gathering and a great contribution for a friend’s party, Sea Hag is one of the most crushable IPA’s in the region.

BUSINESS:  Texas suffers its worst nightmare: after basically freezing over, there are still millions without power, thousands in need of shelter, and hundreds dead.  Why wasn’t Texas prepared for a winter storm in the same way that the Northeast or Midwest would’ve been?  We break down some potential factors, and look into some stocks you might be able to take advantage of...if they can make it out of this mess alive.

BALLS:  San Diego Padres standout shortstop Fernando Tatis inks himself a HUGE deal for $340 million over 13 years. How does this change the game for young stars that will hit free agency in the first few years of the 2020’s?