This episode of Bleav in San Diego Baseball brings Alex Miniak and Heath Bell to Mets Fantasy Camp for a special conversation with Mets legend Howard Johnson — two-time World Series champion, Mets Hall of Famer, and one of the most dynamic third basemen of the 1980s. HoJo reflects on his unlikely journey from facing the Padres in the 1984 World Series to becoming a cornerstone of the swagger-soaked Mets teams that defined an era in New York.
Johnson opens up about his evolution from a speed-first player into a power-hitting 30–30 trailblazer, redefining what was possible for a switch-hitting infielder. He shares how trusting his natural game — instead of chasing home runs — unlocked his most productive and consistent years. The conversation also explores the joy of his transition into coaching, where he helped shape the careers of Mets stars like David Wright and José Reyes.
It’s a love letter to baseball’s past, told through the voice of a player who lived it — and a fan-turned-broadcaster who never stopped believing.
Chapters:
00:00 - Welcome Mets Hall of Famer Howard Johnson!; 01:51 - HoJo Faced the Padres in the 1984 World Series?; 03:25 - Trammell, Gibson, Morris: A PhD in Baseball; 05:46 - Debuting at the Old Tiger Stadium; 07:15 - Transitioning to a Power Hitter and 30-30 Player; 11:54 - Ruling New York City in the 1980s; 15:12 - Coaching and Mentoring David Wright and Jose Reyes; 16:49 - Favorite Takeaways as a Met; 18:22 - ...and Some Ballpark Memories; 21:26 - Padres Junk Wax Gem: Craig Shipley 1992 Fleer Ultra; 25:39 - Update from Mets Fantasy Camp
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