Is This A Great Game, Or What?

We say goodbye today to one of the greatest baserunners ever on Is This A Great Game, or What? But baseball never stops—especially for the incredibly young players getting locked up for the future, something Tim Kurkjian quite frankly hasn’t seen before. Catch that in our “GameChanger of the Week.” Jeff attempts a Quirkjian and falls a bit flat, creating a hilarious moment between this father-son duo. On This Date, a great number eight comes up, leading Tim to this week’s Team Tim. We’ve got the best “C” hitter and pitcher, another Wheel of Kurkjian, and three (not two!) Cards in the Bathroom. But before the baseball talk begins, we had to celebrate The Masters with a Kurkjian Quandary that absolutely NEEDS to be discussed. As always, thanks for listening and for being part of our family. Don’t forget to subscribe and follow—and most importantly, share the show with a friend or family member who loves this game! Coach Smarter, Connect Live, Replay the Action with GameChanger at gc.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hall of Famer Jim Palmer joins us this week for a riveting interview. The greatest Orioles pitcher ever turned broadcaster has stories you won’t believe—and a memory that is second to none. What did his signing bonus look like 60 years ago? A lot different than today’s players, that’s for sure. He retells a conversation with Barry Bonds that had us stunned. And he was roommates with Robin Roberts? We didn’t know that! There are plenty of fascinating stories about the late, great Howard Cosell, plus some love for Kevin Brown and Ben McDonald, too. We keep it long, lean, and loose with Palmer. Don’t forget to subscribe or follow wherever you’re listening!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Filming on Easter Sunday, Tim Kurkjian brings us the All-Easter Team that everyone has been asking for—including a favorite of our former guest, Dan Patrick. Dylan Cease (a pitcher, of course) is the last to do something at the plate—man, do we miss pitchers hitting, don’t you? Tim also dives deeper into the difficulty of an umpire’s job, sharing a story that might just knock you off your feet. Jeff had a conversation with a 10-year-old that left him stunned—and after retelling it to Tim, let’s just say we’re feeling pretty good about the future of baseball fans. Jeff also breaks out the only impressions he knows how to do, and honestly… they’re not terrible, so we’ll take it. We even get to the important questions—like what shoe size Tim Kurkjian wears—and somehow make our way to Star Wars. Safe to say, we had a lot of fun this week… but we’ll have even more tomorrow when Hall of Famer Jim Palmer joins us once again. Don’t forget to follow or subscribe so you don’t miss that interview—and so much more! Use our code TERRITORY10 for 10% off your next SeatGeek order* seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pitching across baseball is absolutely electric right now—and we’re loving every second of it. Tim and Jeff Kurkjian are back together in person and debut a brand-new segment, “The Wheel of Kurkjian,” inspired by your suggestions. After one full week of baseball, the show is packed with highlights. Quirkjians and On This Date in Baseball History lead the way—but not before Jeff kicks things off with a classic April Fools’ Day prank on his dad. “Three Cards in the Bathroom” and “Alphabest” spark plenty of debate between the two. And when it comes to the best “B” last name pitcher and hitter? That’s up to Tim—but we want to hear your picks. Remember: this is his list, not the list. A big thank you to our friends at GameChanger for supporting another GameChanger of the Week. This time, we spotlight a player who wasn’t even sure he’d make the team out of Spring Training—but once he did, he made it count. Coach Smarter, Connect Live, Replay the Action with GameChanger at gc.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Baker is a former Major Leaguer turned coach who is wiser than both of us—that’s for sure. He is well-studied in the minds of individuals, which he applies to the mindset of ballplayers. Visit www.baker-hq.com for more details and see how your ballplayer can benefit from his life’s work. We talk all things big leagues, including something we never knew about John Lackey and the COVID year. Plus, we dive into that incredible Cubs team that won it all in 2016. He also got us into the minds of Paul Skenes and up-and-comer Konnor Griffin—trust me, these guys are next level. For moms and dads of little leaguers, we spent a lot of time talking about growing up in the game—there’s plenty here for all of us to learn. And speaking of learning, we picked up new words and explored new books with Baker. What a great guest. Stranger things have happened on this podcast—that’s for sure! Subscribe and follow for more!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

First full weekend of baseball and Tim and Jeff Kurkjian have you ready for a ton of Takeaways and Quirkjians. Don't forget to submit yours at GreatGameOrWhat.com, it's that easy! The 2026 season is underway with a whole lot of strikeouts—are we surprised? But it’s the star power behind those strikeouts that’s really driving us crazy! Plus, we have ABS in full swing. Tim and Jeff weigh in on its effectiveness and break down the rules behind it (for those who might not know—like Jeff’s wife). A hidden ambidextrous player got Tim all giddy, and we highlight some great birthdays in “On This Date” in baseball history. Finally, Tim celebrates the anniversary of a player’s retirement. Now that we’re in the full swing of the regular season, remember—we’ve got three episodes a week: Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. So make sure to hit that subscribe or follow button so you don’t miss a thing!  Get 10% off your first month of BlueChew Gold with code FOUL at BlueChew.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re celebrating Opening Day this year with our friends at GameChanger. They’ve been an incredible partner for the past couple of years, and nothing captures the spirit of Opening Day quite like family—which is exactly what they’re all about. We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: Opening Day should honestly be a holiday. Maybe next season we make that happen. At the top of the show, Tim dives into some of his favorite Opening Day memories, and he wraps things up with a “Team Tim” featuring some all-time Opening Day heroes. On This Date in Baseball History highlights some notable names, and we’ve got another edition of “Three Cards in the Bathroom” this week. Tim even made the trip up to Jeff’s house—just like old times—so we could put together a true celebration of an episode for everyone. One thing to remember: this season could be your team’s season. It’s the best time of the year—so hold onto that kid-at-heart energy heading into 2026. It makes everything more fun. Coach Smarter, Connect Live, Replay the Action with GameChanger at gc.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As tradition continues, we welcome Eduardo Perez back for our first interview of the regular season—for the third straight year since the podcast began. And as always, he delivers. We dive into Opening Day and the memories that come with it—not just from his time as a player, but from his childhood. As the son of a Hall of Famer, Eduardo brings a truly unique perspective on growing up around the game. We also revisit an unforgettable World Baseball Classic, including the one moment that almost kept Eduardo from experiencing it fully—something he carefully shares with us. From hitting behind Bo Jackson to his connection with Sean Casey, plus a little 6-4-3 talk, it all comes together in this fun Opening Week special of Is This A Great Game, Or What? Be sure to share the show with a friend, and don’t forget to subscribe or follow wherever you’re listening! Coach Smarter, Connect Live, and Replay the Action at gc.com Use our code TERRITORY10 for 10% off your next SeatGeek order* seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discount If you like your money, Mint Mobile is for you. Plans start at $15/month at MintMobile.com/Territory See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tim Kurkjian had an absolute monster of a day, sitting down with Nolan Ryan and Dwight Gooden separately—on the same day. Even after all his years covering the game, he says there have been few days outside of Cooperstown inductions as story-filled as this one. He recaps both conversations for us. Who made their ball club? We break down the end of Spring Training, an exciting time for players who’ve finally achieved their dream of making a big league roster—including one player who made his promotion even more special. Plus, we dive into what happened On This Date in baseball history, Tim revisits some classic baseball cards, and as always, we wrap things up with a Team Tim. If you have something to share, head to GreatGameOrWhat.com or find us on social media—just search “GreatGameOrWhat.” Enjoy 50% off for life plus Free Shipping AND 3 Free Gifts at MenGoToMars.com Get 10 free meals and a FREE Zwilling Knife (a $144.99 value) on your third box at HelloFresh.com/FT10FM. Offer valid while supplies last. Free meals applied as a discount on first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We had an absolute blast chopping it up with Kevin Pillar—former MLB standout turned broadcaster and podcaster! Catch him on Foul Territory and Blue Bird Territory where he’s been absolutely crushing it. Huge thanks to Kevin for taking the time to talk WBC with us. Sure, it wasn’t the finish Team USA fans were hoping for, but it doesn’t take away from how electric the game is right now. And who knows—maybe we’ll see Pillar involved in the next one… or even the Olympics. We also got into some fun debates: the four best switch-hitters, the four best center fielders, and of course… can Pillar still dunk? (You know we had to ask.) From growing up listening to Vin Scully, to being inspired by Kobe’s work ethic, to now carrying that mindset into life as a girl dad—Kevin’s story is as real as it gets. A  math major turned Major Leaguer—Kevin Pillar, we appreciate you. And to everyone listening, thank you! Be sure to subscribe or follow wherever you get your podcasts. Full episodes are available everywhere you listen, and you can also watch on YouTube!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! It’s also the World Baseball Classic Championship tonight, and with the regular season starting in just eight days, this is an incredible week for baseball. Tim Kurkjian jumps right in to discuss the Cal Raleigh and Randy Arozarena drama surrounding the handshake that never happened. After the WBC, we’ll be joined by  Foul Territory and Blue Bird Territory's Kevin Pillar to recap it all with us.  Jeff also makes his pick for a March Madness sleeper this year—maybe not to win it all, but a team he believes can make a run to the Sweet Sixteen. We also hear Tim’s incredible St. Patrick’s Day team and cycle through more baseball cards. Plus, we reveal the results of the All-Robinson vs. All-Johnson matchup that had us debating last week… and let’s just say, we did NOT see this one coming. Thanks for listening and watching. Be sure to follow and subscribe so you don’t miss anything. We’ll be back to three episodes next week, and as tradition goes, Eduardo Perez will join us to help kick off the season.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Back in 2024, we had the pleasure of welcoming our friend Scott Van Pelt to the podcast. For years, he and Tim Kurkjian have been staples on ESPN, but it’s their segments together that have truly made the internet smile. This episode originally ran on July 9th, 2024. Their shared home state of Maryland gave rise to one of the great recurring bits — Scott cracking Tim up with his take on the Baltimore accent. If you’re a sports fan, you’ve probably seen one of these moments somewhere, whether on ESPN or circulating around the internet. During our conversation, we talked about The Masters and Scott’s love of all things golf, as well as his upbringing as an Orioles fan and how that helped spark his passion for baseball — and plenty more along the way. We’re bringing this episode back as a thank-you to our new followers and subscribers. We’ve got a lot of fun and exciting interviews coming your way in the 2026 season, and we’re thrilled to have you along for the journey. Get 10 free meals and a FREE Zwilling Knife (a $144.99 value) on your third box at HelloFresh.com/FT10FM. Offer valid while supplies last. Free meals applied as a discount on first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan. Use our code TERRITORY10 for 10% off your next SeatGeek order* seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/TERRITORY10 Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $20 discountSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tim Kurkjian and his son Jeff are back at it again—and this time the hype is all about the incredible World Baseball Classic and one player who says the experience ranks as a career highlight. With the clocks set back, it means we’re one step closer to the start of the regular season. Tim also shares a few standout young players he had the chance to see during his time in Florida and Arizona. Then there’s the matter of a Ron Howard appearance. After a recent text exchange with Buck Showalter, it suddenly doesn’t seem so impossible. Pete Rose also comes up—specifically the stat he might be most proud of. In fact, he was so proud of it that he offered it to Tim without even being asked. Plus, we rip open some baseball cards and uncover a minor-league moment from Larry Anderson that will absolutely make you smile. Let’s load the cannon on another great episode. Don’t forget to subscribe wherever you’re listening or watching right now!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Big partnership news to start the show! A huge thank you to  @foulterritoryshow  Network for bringing us on board for the 2026 season. We’re incredibly grateful to their team for embracing our little show. The best part? Nothing changes for you as a listener! Tim is at Spring Training and fired up to talk about everything he’s seen so far. The impact of the World Baseball Classic is already being felt across clubs, and looming negotiations for the 2027 season are hanging over just about everyone. Tim Kurkjian has exclusive insight on both. “On This Date” in baseball history inspires a brand-new Team Tim — and it wasn’t an easy roster to build. If we missed someone, drop a comment or head to GreatGameOrWhat.com to message us directly. Jeff took the lead on baseball cards this week, and it didn’t disappoint. He even pulled from his personal collection, so we’ve got some heavy hitters (and pitchers) featured in this episode. One quick note: beginning in the 2026 season, we’ll be adjusting our episode schedule to better serve our audience. We’ll still be dropping three episodes a week — just on different days — so stay tuned for the updated lineup. Thanks for listening, and don’t forget to share the show with a friend! Subscribe to the show on YouTube!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We said goodbye to an absolute legend, Bill Mazeroski. He also earned a spot on Tim’s All-Defense Team—alongside several other incredibly skilled defenders. We also recapped Jeff’s weekend adventure involving a pool of ice water (a bold but smart move, Jeff). Eddie Murray was a major topic this week as we celebrated his birthday, along with so many other great baseball birthdays. We also remembered Tony C., lost on this day—perhaps the bravest of them all. Dave Kingman’s baseball card made an appearance during the show, and honestly, he could probably still play in 2026—though maybe not for the best reasons. Tim shared some special memories from his very first Spring Training, especially fitting as he heads to much warmer weather this week (which we’re all looking forward to). And next week, we’ve got absolutely MASSIVE news we can’t wait to share. If you’ve been following along, nothing will change for you—and the same goes for anyone new. But be sure to tune in next week for all the details! Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights.  Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re running the full gambit on the show this week with Tim Kurkjian and his son, Jeff. If you’re interested in attending Jeff’s live event, visit GreatGameOrWhat.com for details — we’d love to see you there.With Spring Training underway, no one is more excited than this father-son duo. We also couldn’t let the day pass without celebrating Michael Jordan’s birthday and debating the best No. 62 of all time — a conversation that certainly delivered.Plus, we’re taking the “Ober” on Three Cards in the Bathroom.Tim closes out the show with a beautiful All-Presidents Team for Team Tim. If you’ve created one of your own and want to hear it on the air, head to GreatGameOrWhat.com and submit it today! Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights.  Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Super Bowl is DONE, which means for some teams, pitchers and catchers report TODAY! This is what we’ve been waiting for all offseason. Spring Training is here, and this is when our show hits primetime. We can’t thank you enough for being along for the ride — and don’t forget to hit subscribe!Today, we dive into Tim Kurkjian’s all-time favorite Spring Training stories, featuring warthogs, bicycles, and softball gloves. We also celebrate a few birthdays, including one from Australia (not something you see every day).We rip some cards and see what we can uncover — always a good time with “Three Cards in the Bathroom.” Tim may be a historian of the game, but there’s one never-achieved matchup he’ll defend forever.Soak it all in, folks. Spring Training has arrived, and Tim and Jeff Kurkjian are celebrating right along with you. Thanks for listening, and as always, thanks for being part of our family. Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights.  Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.