Armstrong & Getty On Demand: "Hotdog!!!" – Episode Summary

Release Date: March 31, 2025
Host/Authors: Jack Armstrong & Joe Getty
Guest: Ken Korak, Play-by-Play Announcer for the Oakland Athletics (A's)
Location: Sutter Health Park, Sacramento, California
Episode Focus: A's Opening Day at Sutter Health Park, Insights from Ken Korak, Baseball Rule Changes, Team Prospects, and Fan Experiences

1. Opening Remarks and Setting the Scene (03:02 – 03:18)

Jack Armstrong and Joe Getty kick off the episode live from Sutter Health Park for the Opening Day of the A’s baseball season, where the A's are set to face the Chicago Cubs. The hosts express excitement about being present at the stadium, highlighting the significance of the day for both players and fans.

Quote:
Jack Armstrong (03:13): "We are live at Sutter Health Park for opening day of the A's baseball. They take on the Cubs tonight."

2. Interview with Ken Korak: Career and Experiences (04:03 – 13:10)

Ken Korak joins Armstrong and Getty to discuss his illustrious 34-year career as a play-by-play announcer. He shares his journey to the major leagues, expressing gratitude and humility.

Key Points:

• Career Longevity: Ken reflects on his 34 years in the major leagues, attributing his success to hard work and passion for the game.

  Quote:
  Ken Korak (04:30): "I think tonight, looking out on the field... it is certainly a much more intimate atmosphere than what we're used to at a big league ballpark. I think it's going to be fun."

• Interview Insights: Ken discusses the differences between major league and the more intimate setting of Sutter Health Park, anticipating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere despite the stadium's smaller size.

• Comparisons with Legendary Announcers: The conversation delves into comparisons with iconic figures like Vin Scully and Harry Carey, highlighting Vin Scully's unparalleled legacy.

  Quote:
  Ken Korak (08:12): "Vin Scully is on a pedestal. He stands above everyone else... One of the great thrills of my life was getting to know him."

• Rule Changes in Baseball: Ken provides expert opinions on recent rule changes, specifically the implementation of the pitch clock, deeming it a positive alteration that enhances the game's tempo and keeps fans engaged.

  Quote:
  Ken Korak (11:16): "I think it's been better. I really do. I think fans like it. I think the tempo of the game has gotten better."

• Team Prospects for 2025: Ken expresses optimism about the A's improved roster and potential for a strong season, mentioning key players like Tyler Soderson who have shown significant performance in spring training.

  Quote:
  Ken Korak (12:14): "If things break right in the second half of the season, they could be in contention for a wild card. I'm enthused about their club."

3. Discussion on A's Relocation to Sacramento (13:13 – 23:35)

The hosts delve into the A's recent move to Sacramento, discussing potential impacts on the team, staff, and fanbase.

Key Points:

• Stadium Size and Atmosphere: The smaller capacity of Sutter Health Park (~14,000) compared to traditional major league stadiums allows for a more intimate and engaging fan experience.

  Quote:
  Joe Getty (05:12): "I think the regional support will amplify the energy at the ballpark, making it a motivating environment for the players."

• Impact on Team and Personnel: Speculation ensues about whether existing staff relocated or if new personnel will be hired. The hosts ponder the continuity and adjustments required for those moving from Oakland to Sacramento.

• Fan Engagement: Armstrong and Getty emphasize the importance of local support, encouraging fans to attend games and embrace their regional identity.

  Quote:
  Jack Armstrong (07:06): "Get your tickets in advance because they're going quickly, I can tell you that."

4. Anecdotes and Personal Stories (23:35 – 41:59)

The hosts share personal baseball experiences, humorous stories, and engage in light-hearted banter to entertain listeners.

Key Points:

• Babe Ruth Biography: Armstrong discusses intriguing facts from a recent Babe Ruth biography, highlighting the lack of visual records from Ruth's prime years and his dominance in both pitching and hitting.

  Quote:
  Jack Armstrong (29:10): "Babe Ruth was a giant, strapping fit man... He dominated orphanage baseball and rec leagues without even knowing traditional strategies."

• Ballpark Experiences: Getty reminisces about past games, sharing stories about hot dog mishaps and the superior quality of ballpark concessions compared to local food.

  Quote:
  Joe Getty (35:19): "Alpine Meats sent me cases of their products to make up for the bad experience – those hot links and brats are fantastic."

• Humorous Interactions: The hosts joke about dealing with anti-Tesla sentiments, emphasizing their laid-back approach to differing opinions.

• Field Maintenance Insights: Armstrong comments on the meticulous work of groundskeepers and the pristine condition of the playing field compared to local high school fields.

5. Final Thoughts and Closing Banter (48:19 – 50:23)

As the episode draws to a close, the hosts offer their final reflections on the day's events and the broader baseball landscape.

Key Points:

• Personal Aspirations: Getty shares his admiration for Ken Korak and expresses a whimsical desire to have pursued a career in baseball announcing.

  Quote:
  Joe Getty (49:26): "If I could go to a parallel universe, it'd be the one where I became a baseball announcer. Love the game so much."

• Encouragement for Fans: Armstrong and Getty encourage listeners to support local teams and engage with the community, promoting merchandise and interaction through their website.

• Light-Hearted Sign-Off: The hosts sign off with humor, referencing ongoing weather challenges and their yearning for hot dogs, ensuring a memorable and entertaining conclusion.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Ken Korak (08:12): "Vin Scully is on a pedestal. He stands above everyone else..."
• Ken Korak (11:16): "I think it's been better. I really do. I think fans like it. I think the tempo of the game has gotten better."
• Joe Getty (05:12): "I think the regional support will amplify the energy at the ballpark..."
• Jack Armstrong (29:10): "Babe Ruth was a giant, strapping fit man..."
• Joe Getty (35:19): "Alpine Meats sent me cases of their products to make up for the bad experience..."

Conclusion

In this episode of "Armstrong & Getty On Demand," listeners are treated to an engaging live broadcast from Sutter Health Park, comprehensive insights from a seasoned announcer, and relatable anecdotes that resonate with baseball fans. The thoughtful discussion on rule changes and team dynamics offers depth, while the personal stories and humor ensure an entertaining listen. Whether you're a die-hard baseball enthusiast or a casual fan, this episode provides a well-rounded perspective on Opening Day festivities and the evolving landscape of the A's baseball season.