The Erik Sherman Show

Tune in for a conversation with Hall of Fame baseball writer and New York Times bestselling author Bill Madden, as he joins The Erik Sherman Show to reflect on more than five decades covering the game. From the chaos of the Steinbrenner-Reggie-Billy years to the heartbreaking loss of Thurman Munson and his friendship with Tom Seaver, Bill shares powerful behind-the-scenes stories with insight and authenticity. He also discusses his Hall of Fame induction and the making of his latest memoir, Yankees, Typewriters, Scandals, and Cooperstown: A Baseball Memoir, offering a candid look at baseball's past, present, and the legacy of its legends. A must-listen for anyone fascinated by the rich history of America's pastime.

Join host Erik Sherman as he welcomes baseball legend Davey Johnson for an intimate conversation about his remarkable journey through America's pastime. You'll hear firsthand accounts of Johnson's championship years with the Orioles, his record-setting 43 home runs as a second baseman, and the unforgettable 1986 Mets World Series victory. With candid stories about playing alongside greats like Hank Aaron and Brooks Robinson, plus insights into his successful managerial philosophy, this episode offers you a delightful glimpse into baseball history through the eyes of one of its most colorful and accomplished figures.  

In this episode, Erik sits down with Justin Sherman, one of MLB's Youth Ambassadors for the Play Ball Initiative and president of JustinTime Baseball. Justin shares his passion for teaching young children the fundamentals of baseball through his innovative coaching programs. From overcoming his own speech challenges to building a successful baseball instruction enterprise that serves over 3,000 kids across 13 little leagues, Justin reveals how empathy and understanding are key to connecting with young players. The conversation explores the importance of proper youth coaching, working with parent coaches, and features stories about collaboration with baseball legends like Doc Gooden and Paul O'Neill. Along the way, Justin shares his vision for expanding JustinTime Baseball's methodology nationwide to help develop the next generation of baseball players and fans.

The Erik Sherman Show welcomes Rene LeRoux, the executive director of the New York State Baseball, Hockey, and Basketball Halls of Fame. In this engaging episode, Rene shares with Erik the fascinating origins of these halls of fame and provides insights into the induction process. He recounts his personal experience at the 1980 "Miracle on Ice" hockey game and discusses with Erik the recent opening of the New York State Baseball Hall of Fame building in Gloversville. As a veteran baseball author and Hall of Fame inductee himself, Erik draws out Rene's preview of the upcoming 2024 baseball induction class, which includes legends like Yogi Berra and Don Mattingly.

In this episode, Erik Sherman interviews Don Wardlow, the first blind professional baseball broadcaster. Don shares his inspiring journey from a baseball-loving child to a pioneering minor league color commentator. He discusses his innovative techniques for game preparation, his partnership with play-by-play announcer Jim Lucas, and his popular seventh-inning stretch performances. This conversation highlights Don's passion for baseball and his remarkable ability to excel in broadcasting despite being born without sight.

This episode was recorded live at the East Coast National Card Show and features a conversation with New York Mets Hall of Famer Cleon Jones. Cleon shares candid insights from his remarkable career, from the Mets' early struggles to their miraculous 1969 World Series victory. Tune in to hear fascinating stories about legendary figures like Casey Stengel and Gil Hodges, and gain a player's perspective on the transformation of the Mets from "lovable losers" to world champions.  

In this episode of the Erik Sherman Show, recorded remotely from Cooperstown, New York, Erik sits down with baseball legend Denny McLain. McLain, the last pitcher to win 30 games in a season, reflects on his incredible 1968 season where he won both the Cy Young Award and MVP. He also discusses the challenges of achieving such a feat in today's game, shares his thoughts on recent rule changes in baseball, and recounts how the 1968 Detroit Tigers helped unite a city torn by riots. The conversation offers fascinating insights into baseball history and the perspective of one of the game's great pitchers.

In this episode, Erik is joined by Boston Red Sox legend Dwight Evans. Erik and Dwight discuss their upcoming book, "Dewey: Behind the Gold Glove," which offers an intimate look at Dwight's illustrious career, his close bond with teammate Carl Yastrzemski, and the challenges he faced as a father with two sons who suffered from neurofibromatosis. Dwight also shares his thoughts on the iconic 1975 and 1986 Red Sox teams, the evolution of baseball, and his current role in player development. Join Erik and Dwight for a revealing conversation about life, baseball, and their collaboration on this highly anticipated autobiography. 

Erik welcomes acclaimed authors Glenn Allen and Richard Kaufman to discuss their riveting new novel, "Played: The Games of the 1936 Berlin Olympics". The writing duo delves into their extensive research and creative process behind the book, which weaves together the stories of iconic athletes, politicians, and everyday people during one of the most politically charged Olympic Games in history. Allen and Kaufman explore the parallels between the 1936 Games and today's global political climate, offering a thought-provoking and cautionary tale that reminds listeners of the importance of remaining vigilant in the face of rising authoritarianism. Throughout the interview, the authors share their hopes for the novel's impact on readers, from providing entertainment to inspiring a deeper understanding of history. 

In this episode Erik interviews legendary baseball author Peter Golenbock, who has written over 60 books including 10 New York Times bestsellers. Peter shares fascinating stories about his journey from lawyer to sportswriter, his experiences collaborating on tell-all books with baseball personalities like Sparky Lyle, Billy Martin, and Graig Nettles, and reveals the inspiration behind his latest book "Baseball Heaven". Through colorful anecdotes and insights, Peter brings to life the characters from baseball's past and present, humanizing the players in a way that goes beyond mere statistics. Tune in for an engaging conversation with one of baseball literature's most prolific and influential authors.