48. John W. Miller (“The Last Manager”)

Andy reminisces about Baltimore Orioles legend and Hall of Fame manager, Earl Weaver, with his biographer John W. Miller. The author now resides in Pittsburgh after a childhood spent abroad (mostly in Belgium) and recently wrote the ultimate Weaver in full book. 

From the early years in St. Louis to the spring training in St. Petersburg, Florida in 1952 with Eddie Stanky as manager, hoping to earn a roster spot with the big club in St. Louis led by Stan Musial, Enos Slaughter amongst others. Weaver didn’t make that team and began his 20-year trek as player and manager in the minors. Finally, ascending to the Big Leagues, Weaver managed the Orioles from 1968-1982 and again from 1985-1986. 

His winning percentage was .583 career with a postseason record of 26-20 .565. One of the most fiery, intense and cerebral managers the game has ever known, John and Andy unpack the “Oriole Way” and Weaver’s place in baseball history.

In this episode:

• Andy and John discuss the legacy of Earl Weaver and what made him stand out

• Weaver’s sense of showmanship, including playing the kazoo and letting fans vote on decisions

• Why John wrote The Last Manager and what the title means

• Recreating one of Weaver’s most memorable moments in St. Petersburg

• John’s connection to baseball while growing up in Brussels

• The story behind the tomato patch planted in Weaver’s honour

• A look back at the legendary 1983 Orioles vs. White Sox game

The Last Manager: How Earl Weaver Tricked, Tormented, and Reinvented Baseball

The show is supported by www.wrightwoodmedical.com.

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