Episode 2

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Published on:

3rd Sep 2024

EP 2 MLB Pennant Races With Expert Guest Tyler Flowers

"Fans First," Hall of Fame sportscaster Jim Powell sits down with former MLB catcher Tyler Flowers to discuss the Atlanta Braves' season, the art of pitch framing, and what it takes to make a deep postseason run. Tyler shares insights from his time with the Braves, offers his take on the current MLB season, and delves into his post-retirement life, including his unexpected passion for tennis. Whether you're a die-hard baseball fan or just love a good sports story, this episode has something for everyone.

IN THIS EPISODE:

  • [00:35] - Introduction of Tyler Flowers and his background with the Atlanta Braves
  • [01:45] - Tyler's assessment of the Braves' injury-plagued season and their postseason outlook
  • [03:20] - The impact of injuries on the Braves and the resilience of the team
  • [04:45] - How pitch framing extended Tyler's career and his thoughts on the future of catching
  • [06:50] - Tyler's decision to retire due to back issues and how he's managing his health post-retirement
  • [10:15] - Discussion on the National League contenders and the Braves' competition
  • [11:00] - Tyler's views on the Philadelphia Phillies and their postseason potential
  • [13:15] - The Dodgers' depth and how they might perform in the postseason
  • [14:50] - Analysis of the American League, including Tyler's thoughts on the Yankees and Orioles
  • [17:00] - Tyler's unexpected passion for tennis and how it became a big part of his life.
  • [18:32] Get Off my Lawn with Will Frampton on College Football

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Despite a season full of injuries, the Braves have managed to stay competitive, showcasing the team's depth and resilience.
  • Tyler Flowers is known for his pitch framing skills, a technique that extended his career and made him a standout catcher.
  • Tyler has found new passions post-retirement, including tennis, which has become an integral part of his life.
  • Tyler provides expert analysis on which teams are well-positioned to make a deep run in the upcoming postseason.


ABOUT THE GUEST: 

Cole Tyler Flowers (born January 24, 1986) is an American former professional baseball catcher. Flowers was drafted by the Braves in the 33rd round of the 2005 MLB draft. He played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Chicago White Sox from 2009, when he made his MLB debut, to 2015 and for the Atlanta Braves from 2016 to 2020.


RESOURCE LINKS 

X: https://x.com/Jim_Powell

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-powell-38715a5/

Website: Fansfirstpodcast.com 


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About the Podcast

Fans First a Sports Podcast
Welcome to "Fans First: A Sports Podcast," where your voice matters most! Hosted by the legendary Hall of Fame sportscaster Jim Powell, this show puts fans at the heart of the conversation. We believe sports are more than just games—they’re a way of life, a source of passion, and a community that brings people together. That’s why "Fans First" is here to celebrate your insights, opinions, and love for the game like never before. Whether you’re cheering in the stands, shouting at the TV, or debating trades with friends, "Fans First" is your go-to destination for all things sports. Each episode features fan-driven discussions, expert analysis, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Jim Powell brings his wealth of experience and storytelling prowess to every episode, guiding conversations that are as engaging as they are insightful. But this podcast isn’t just about the headlines—it’s about the stories that matter to you. From the thrill of victory to the agony of defeat, from blockbuster trades to unforgettable moments in sports history, "Fans First" covers it all. We’re here to give you a platform to share your thoughts, ask tough questions, and connect with a community of fellow sports enthusiasts.

Join us each week as we explore the stories behind the scores, the emotions behind the plays, and the fans who make it all possible. Plus, don’t miss our special segments—“Flip the Switch,” where we suddenly turn the conversation in an unexpected new direction, and “Get Off My Lawn,” where fans can offer their spirited opinions about the hottest current topics in sports before the host gets his chance to react. So, tune in, speak up, and be part of the sports conversation that celebrates what makes the game great—you, the fan!

Bio: Jim Powell is an American radio and television sportscaster, previously employed with Major League Baseball's Milwaukee Brewers (1996–2008) and Atlanta Braves (2009–2023). A native of Roswell, Georgia, Powell was educated at the University of Georgia. He began his baseball play-by-play career with the minor-league Columbia Mets (1987–89, 1993–94) and Charlotte Knights (1990–91, 1995), also calling games part-time for the Minnesota Twins in 1993–94 before being hired by the Brewers in 1996. Teaming with Bob Uecker, Powell called games for the Milwaukee Brewers Radio Network and was Uecker’s longest-tenured partner. Powell was named Wisconsin Sportscaster of the Year in 1998. In 2009, he began teaming with Don Sutton to call games on the Atlanta Braves Radio Network and continued his play-by-play role through 2023. In addition to his baseball work, Powell has called college football (for the University of South Carolina and CBS Radio) and college basketball (for Davidson College and South Carolina) at various points in his career. Powell was a National Merit Scholar and is MENSA-qualified. He was inducted into the Georgia Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2020.

Social Media Handles:
X: https://x.com/Jim_Powell
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-powell-38715a5/
Website: Fansfirstpodcast.com

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James Powell