Casuals with Katie Nolan: "Doggy Day Care, First Base Podcasts & CBA Negotiations | with Vinnie Pasquantino"
Release Date: April 17, 2025
Host: Katie Nolan
Guest: Vinnie Pasquantino, First Baseman for the Kansas City Royals
Introduction
In this engaging episode of Casuals with Katie Nolan, host Katie Nolan welcomes Vinnie Pasquantino, the charismatic first baseman from the Kansas City Royals. Known affectionately as the "Pasquatch," Vinnie brings his firsthand experiences from Major League Baseball to the conversation, delving into a variety of topics ranging from on-field antics to off-field insights.
Vinnie's Nickname and Team Dynamics
Katie Nolan: "We've spoken about you before on this podcast, the Pasquatch. Are you wearing the chain?"
Vinnie Pasquantino: "I am. I always have it on me." [18:32]
Vinnie shares the origin of his beloved nickname, "Pasquatch," likening himself to a Sasquatch—a mythical creature. The nickname was coined by a teammate, Ryan O'Hearn, and quickly caught on with both teammates and fans. This moniker has become a beloved part of his identity within the Royals' community.
Vinnie Pasquantino: "It was like, rumor has it there's been a sighting of a Pasquatch." [19:21]
Life as a First Baseman
Playing first base comes with its own set of challenges and responsibilities. Vinnie discusses the pressure of making crucial plays and the personal accountability that comes with the position.
Vinnie Pasquantino: "It is not the most fun feeling when you mess up a play like that... It sucks." [53:20]
He recounts memorable moments, both triumphant and trying, such as scoring a home run and dealing with defensive mishaps.
Vinnie Pasquantino: "But it's great to be in the lineup." [48:32]
Fantasy Sports and Unique Leagues
Vinnie is an avid fantasy sports participant, engaging in traditional leagues and more unconventional formats like guillotine and vampire leagues. He explains the complexities and thrill of these competitions, highlighting his strategic approaches and humorous anecdotes.
Vinnie Pasquantino: "Vampire League is awesome, too." [60:38]
Katie Nolan: "You bite each other." [60:43]
His enthusiasm for innovative fantasy formats showcases his deep passion for the game beyond just playing professionally.
CBA Negotiations and Player Rights
A significant portion of the discussion centers around the ongoing Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) negotiations. Vinnie provides insight into the players' perspectives, the relationship with team owners, and the importance of maintaining player rights and mental health resources.
Vinnie Pasquantino: "I think the Royals are a really good organization. They actually give a shit about us." [73:35]
He emphasizes the support systems in place, including mental health resources, and commends the Royals' commitment to player well-being.
Vinnie Pasquantino: "We have a mental health person on staff. She's great. Yeah, she's awesome." [73:36]
Technology in Sports: AI and Live Auto-Tune
The conversation shifts to the impact of technology in sports and social media. Katie raises concerns about AI integration on platforms like Instagram and the use of live auto-tune in performances. Vinnie shares his thoughts on these advancements, balancing skepticism with acceptance where appropriate.
Vinnie Pasquantino: "Live auto tune should be illegal... It feels like being lied to and I don't want to chat with stepsister." [02:34 - 04:06]
He articulates the potential downsides of artificial enhancements, advocating for authenticity while recognizing the evolving landscape of technology in entertainment and sports.
Mental Health and Support Systems
Vinnie addresses the importance of mental health within the professional sports environment. Reflecting on stories like Jaron Duran's struggles, he underscores the value of having accessible mental health resources and a supportive team environment.
Vinnie Pasquantino: "If something was going on in any one of our guys' lives, we would know where to go to talk about it." [73:37]
This segment highlights the Royals' proactive approach to player mental health, fostering a culture of openness and support.
Insights on Player Performance Metrics
The discussion delves into advanced baseball statistics, specifically Wins Above Replacement (WAR). Vinnie critiques the metric's effectiveness and fairness, especially for positions like first base.
Vinnie Pasquantino: "Big dumb idiot, basically. So, yeah, that's it." [52:15]
He voices frustration with how WAR can sometimes undervalue players based on their position, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of player contributions.
Relationships with Teammates and Community
Vinnie speaks fondly of his relationships within the team and the broader baseball community. His camaraderie with teammates, including humorous interactions and shared experiences, paints a picture of a tight-knit and supportive environment.
Vinnie Pasquantino: "If you don't like somebody, just don't talk to them." [67:21]
His approachable nature and ability to connect with others contribute to the positive team dynamics of the Royals.
Personal Life and Hobbies
Beyond baseball, Vinnie shares snippets of his personal life, including his work at a dog daycare and his love for television shows like Brooklyn Nine-Nine. These insights add depth to his persona, showcasing his interests outside the diamond.
Vinnie Pasquantino: "I like 30-minute comedies... I've watched Brooklyn Nine Nine probably 100 times." [57:12]
Closing Thoughts
As the episode wraps up, Vinnie's optimistic outlook on the future of the Royals and his dedication to the team shine through. He underscores the importance of staying positive and supportive, both for himself and his teammates, amidst the challenges of professional sports.
Vinnie Pasquantino: "I think Shohei Ohtani could be the MVP... It's crazy and insane." [49:10]
His reflections offer listeners a blend of humor, sincerity, and deep-seated passion for baseball.
Notable Quotes
- Vinnie Pasquantino: "Live auto tune should be illegal... It feels like being lied to and I don't want to chat with stepsister." [04:06]
- Vinnie Pasquantino: "It is not the most fun feeling when you mess up a play like that... It sucks." [53:20]
- Vinnie Pasquantino: "We have a mental health person on staff. She's great. Yeah, she's awesome." [73:36]
- Vinnie Pasquantino: "Big dumb idiot, basically. So, yeah, that's it." [52:15]
Conclusion
This episode of Casuals with Katie Nolan offers a comprehensive look into the life and thoughts of Vinnie Pasquantino. From the intricacies of playing first base to the broader discussions on technology and player welfare, Vinnie's insights provide a valuable perspective for both casual fans and baseball enthusiasts alike. His candidness and humor make for an engaging and informative listen, embodying the spirit of making sports enjoyable without the usual high-pressure environment.
Note: This summary intentionally omits advertisements, introductions, and conclusions as per the guidelines, focusing solely on the substantive content of the episode.