Podcast
Sports' Forgotten Heroes
Hosted by Warren Rogan · EN
Sports' Forgotten Heroes is a tribute to the stars who shaped the games we love to watch and the games we love to play. Sports' Forgotten Heroes is not about reliving the careers of superstars we talk about every day like Muhammed Ali, Jim Brown, Babe Ruth or Michael Jordan. Rather, Sports' Forgotten Heroes is about the stars who have faded away with time. Some were elected to their respective Hall of Fame, others might have had one great season, or just one great game that will live in infamy. Guys like Billy Cannon, Ed Delahanty and Bill Barilko - stars whom time has forgotten.
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168 - Bert Sproston - Premier League
6d ago01:09:34Tap to summarizeThe name Bert Sproston might not ring a bell to many. But his heroics off the pitch are extraordinary. As we celebrate the 2026 World Cup, there isn't a better time to bring Bert's story to the fore than now. Sproston was a star defender for the English National Team when it paid Berlin a visit in 1938 for an exhibition game against the Germans. As expected, England won the game. But that's not what this story is about. While Sproston made his mark with teams such as Leeds United, Manchester City, and Totenham Hotspur (and a few other clubs as well), perhaps his biggest contribution in life is what he did for a Jewish teenager who approached him in Germany after the English had defeated the host team. Rolf Friedland asked Sproston for help ... to help him escape Berlin and Germany during this turbulent time when Hitler was in the process of building his concentration camps and carrying out atrocities beyond imagination. World War II was beckoning, and Friedland needed a way out. He approached Sproston and the English star obliged and helped Friedland escape Nazi Germany just a few months later. In this very unique episode of Sports' Forgotten Heroes, I discuss all of this with three very special guests, beginning with Jenny Leonard and Fiona Thomas, the sisters of John Leonard who recently had a new book published, "Escape From Berlin, England's Bert Sproston and The Football Refugee." Sadly, Leonard passed away prior to the book being published, but his two sisters carry on his legacy and know the story well. Also joining for this special podcast is Alan Freeman, Rolf's son (Rolf later changed his name to Ralph Freeman, and we discuss why during the podcast). Not only is this story about soccer and heroism, we touch upon the political firestorm surrounding this particular timeframe that included England's goal of not being pulled into the War, and their gesture of offering a salute to Hitler not going over as well as they had hoped.
Transcribe →167: Chuck Klein - MLB
3w ago01:04:30Tap to summarizeWhen Chuck Klein broke into Major League Baseball with the Philadelphia Phillies in 1928, few knew about the power he possessed. In just 64 games, he connected for 11 home runs and hit .360. A great debut. What followed was six of the most prolific seasons in not just Phillies history, but MLB history, too! From 1929 through 1933, he averaged 36 home runs a season, averaged .359 a season, and averaged 138 RBI a season. He won an MVP, won a triple crown, four times he led the National League in total bases, twice in hits, twice in doubles, and he even led the National League in stolen bases one season. As if all that isn't enough, he set the record for most assists as an outfielder with 44 in 1930. Back to total bases, his 445 in 1930 rank fourth all-time, and his 420 in 1932 ranks ninth all-time. Lou Gehrig is the only other player to appear in the top 10 twice. Yet, for all Klein accomplished, his career is largely overlooked. When he played, the Phillies' home field was the Baker Bowl, and it was only 280 feet down the right field line. But the right field wall was 60-feet-tall. Many experts hold the 280-feet against Klein despite the height of the wall. Yet, those same experts don't hold the dimensions of 314 feet down the right field line against left-handed hitters in the Yankees lineup, or the 258 feet down the right field line against Mel Ott of the New York Giants, or the 310 feet in left field with the 37-foot wall in Fenway Park against right-handed batters. Klein's numbers were phenomenal. Klein retired, for good, after the 1944 season with 300 homeruns and a career batting average of .320. Yet, it took until 1980, 36 years after he retired, before he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY, by the Veterans Committee. On this episode of Sports' Forgotten Heroes, the host of Midnight Library of Baseball podcast, Ben Orlando, joins for a terrific discussion about a forgotten baseball great - Chuck Klein.
Transcribe →166: Baseball & The Korean War - MLB
Jun 1601:01:32Tap to summarizeBaseball’s golden age collided with one of the most turbulent periods in American history when war broke out on the Korean Peninsula in 1950. In this episode of Sports’ Forgotten Heroes, author Steven P. Gietschier joins the show as we discuss his book, "Warm Summers and Cold Winters," and explore the profound impact the Korean War had on Major League Baseball, its players, and the U.S.Together, we examine how the conflict interrupted careers, sent players from ballparks to battlefields, and forced baseball to navigate the realities of a country once again at war. The discussion highlights the stars who left the game to serve, the opportunities created for younger players, and the ways the Korean War shaped pennant races, team rosters, and baseball’s postwar evolution. Beyond the statistics and standings, this episode explores the personal sacrifices made by players and their families, the relationship between patriotism and professional sports, and why the Korean War’s influence on baseball has often been overshadowed by World War II.Gietschier shares fascinating stories from his research, offering a fresh perspective on a pivotal era when America’s pastime and military service became deeply intertwined. If you enjoy baseball history, military history, and the stories of athletes whose lives extended far beyond the diamond, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Join us as we uncover the little-known connection between Major League Baseball and the Korean War.
Transcribe →165: Bill Mazeroski - MLB
Jun 201:00:54Tap to summarizeThe focal point of this podcast episode is a comprehensive examination of the illustrious career of Bill Mazeroski, a Hall of Fame second baseman renowned for his unparalleled defensive prowess and memorable World Series accomplishments. Throughout our discussion, we delve into the profound impact Mazeroski had on the game of baseball, particularly highlighted by his iconic walk-off home run in the 1960 World Series, a moment that remains etched in the annals of sports history. We also explore Mazeroski's exceptional statistics, including his record for the most double plays turned, which showcases his remarkable skill on the field. As we pay tribute to this remarkable athlete, we reflect on his significance not only to the Pittsburgh Pirates but also to the broader landscape of Major League Baseball. Join us as we celebrate the legacy of Bill Mazeroski and the enduring influence of his contributions to the sport. The discussion revolves around the illustrious career of Bill Mazeroski, a revered figure in baseball history, particularly noted for his remarkable defensive prowess and his pivotal role in the 1960 World Series. The podcast begins by paying tribute to Mazeroski, who passed away in February 2026, underscoring his legacy as a second baseman for the Pittsburgh Pirates. The speakers delve into Mazeroski's unique status, not merely as a player celebrated for his batting averages and home runs, but as an exceptional defensive player whose skills transformed the second base position. They highlight his record of double plays and Gold Glove awards, emphasizing that his induction into the Hall of Fame was primarily due to his defensive excellence rather than offensive statistics. The conversation progresses to the iconic moment of his walk-off home run in Game 7 of the 1960 World Series against the New York Yankees, which remains a defining moment in both his career and baseball history. The speakers reflect on the improbability of the Pirates' victory over a formidable Yankees team, establishing Mazeroski's home run as a legendary moment in sports, encapsulating the essence of baseball nostalgia and the significance of individual moments within team sports.Takeaways:Bill Mazeroski, a distinguished second baseman, is renowned for his exceptional defensive skills, earning eight Gold Glove awards throughout his illustrious career.The only walk-off home run in the bottom of the ninth inning during World Series Game Seven history was struck by Mazeroski, solidifying his legacy in baseball lore.Mazeroski's remarkable record of 1,706 double plays remains unmatched, highlighting his unparalleled impact on the game defensively.His offensive statistics may not be as impressive, yet Mazeroski's defensive prowess undeniably justifies his induction into the Hall of Fame.Despite his quiet demeanor, Mazeroski's contributions to the Pittsburgh Pirates have cemented him as a beloved figure in the city's sports history.The 1960 World Series, where Mazeroski's dramatic home run secured the championship for the Pirates, stands as a defining moment in baseball history.Links referenced in this episode:sportshistorynetwork.combaseballreference.commcfarlandbooks.comsportsfh.infomail.comCompanies mentioned in this episode:Sports History Networkbaseballreference.comAmazonMcFarland Books
Transcribe →164: Al Rosen - MLB
May 1900:56:56Tap to summarizeAl Rosen wasn’t just the American League MVP in 1953, he was one of the most dominant, driven, and intellectually fascinating figures the baseball has ever seen. In this episode of Sports’ Forgotten Heroes, we take a deeper look at the life and career of the “Flip,” a man whose peak was as powerful as almost any player of his era. From his rise with the Cleveland Indians to his extraordinary 1953 season, when he hit .336 with 43 home runs and 145 RBIs and came within a fraction of the Triple Crown, we examine what made Rosen not just great, but historically significant. But Rosen’s story goes far beyond numbers. The adversity he faced as a Jewish player in a time when antisemitism was far more overt, and the fierce, often intimidating intensity that shaped both his success and his reputation inside the clubhouse. Rosen was never a typical star. He was outspoken, highly intelligent, and unafraid to challenge authority, which made him both respected and, at times, misunderstood.After his playing career was cut short by injuries, Rosen brought that same sharp mind to the front office, where he helped build winning organizations with the Yankees, Astros, and Giants. His impact on the game extended well beyond his playing days, influencing how teams evaluated talent and constructed rosters.This episode goes beyond the highlight reel to tell the full story of a player who burned bright, battled through obstacles, and left a lasting imprint on baseball history. Al Rosen may not always be the first name mentioned among the greats, but by the end of this conversation, it’s clear he should be far from forgotten. Joseph Wancho, author of the book, "Hebrew Hammer, A Biography of Al Rosen, All-Star Third Baseman," joins the podcast for a wonderful conversation about one of baseball's greats.
Transcribe →163: Bill Virdon - MLB
May 501:05:36Tap to summarizeThe focus of this podcast episode centers around the illustrious yet often overlooked career of Bill Virdon, a distinguished figure in the annals of baseball history. We delve into the remarkable trajectory of Virdon, who transitioned from a talented player, securing the National League Rookie of the Year title in 1955, to a successful manager for teams such as the Pittsburgh Pirates, New York Yankees, Houston Astros, and Montreal Expos. His adeptness in elevating struggling teams to playoff contention is particularly noteworthy, as is his legacy as a player who not only excelled on the field but also contributed significantly to the development of the sport through his managerial roles. Throughout our discussion, we are joined by David Jerome, author of the biography "Bill: A Life in Baseball," who provides an intimate glimpse into Virdon's life, reflecting on his dedication, work ethic, and the profound impact he had on his teammates and the game itself. This episode serves as a tribute to Virdon's enduring influence and an exploration of the qualities that define a true sports hero.In this episode of Sports’ Forgotten Heroes, we take a deep dive into the life and career of Bill Virdon, one of MLB's most respected managers of the 1970s and 1980s. He was a steady, respected figure in baseball whose impact spanned decades both on the field and in the dugout. On the field, he is best remembered as the 1955 National League Rookie of the Year for the St. Louis Cardinals, and later as a terrific outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Originally signed by the New York Yankees, his road to the Majors was not typical. In fact, he didn't play baseball in high school; he played it recreationally. A terrific athlete, he had natural ability, and the Yankees recognized that ability very quickly. But his baseball story didn’t end with his playing days. Virdon went on to manage multiple major league clubs, including the Pittsburgh Pirates, New York Yankees, Houston Astros, and Montreal Expos, bringing leadership, baseball intelligence, and a steady hand to every stop along the way. Joining the show is author David Jerome, who shares insight from his book “Bill Virdon, A Life in Baseball.” Together, we explore Virdon’s journey from Rookie of the Year, to his evolution into a respected manager, and why his contributions to the game deserve greater recognition today. It’s a story of consistency, resilience, and quiet excellence, exactly the kind of legacy that defines a true “forgotten hero.”
Transcribe →162: Unsung Olympic Heroes
Apr 2100:59:14Tap to summarizeNot all Olympic heroes win the gold. In fact, there are so many heroes who never stepped onto the medal podium. On this episode of Sports' Forgotten Heroes, we're going to look back at some very unique heroes from several past Olympics, summer and winter. We shine a spotlight on a different kind of greatness—the kind that doesn’t always come with gold medals or headline recognition. Joining me on this episode is Doug Levy, whose new book, "Hero Redefined – Profiles of Olympic Athletes Under the Radar," uncovers the powerful, often overlooked stories of Olympians who defined heroism in ways that go far beyond the podium. From unimaginable perseverance to acts of selflessness and quiet courage, these are the stories that deserve to be told—and remembered. Doug also hosts the podcast, "Under the Radar, Olympic Athletes You Gotta Meet," where he continues his mission of bringing these incredible athletes and their journeys to light. In this episode, we dive into: • What truly defines a “hero” in sports • The stories that stayed with Doug long after the research ended • Why some of the most impactful Olympic moments are the ones we’ve forgotten • And how these athletes changed the way he—and now we—see competition, sacrifice, and legacy We concentrate heavily on Peter Norman from Australia, who stood on the medal podium in 1968 in Mexico City with Tommie Smith and John Carlos. We discuss Manteo Mitchell from the U.S., who competed with a broken fibula at the 2012 Olympic Games in London. Alexander Cushing, who didn't compete but was instrumental in bringing the 1960 Winter Olympics to Squaw Valley, California. And we also talk about the incredible heroism of Lawrence Lemieux of Canada, who was disqualified from his race in the 1988 Seoul, South Korea, Games, when he veered off course to rescue a fellow sailor. Plus, we touch upon a few others as well. On this episode of Sports' Forgotten Heroes, Doug Levy the author of the book, "Hero Redefined: Profiles of Olympic Athletes Under the Radar," joins the podcast for a wonderful discussion about olympic athletes time has forgotten.
Transcribe →161: Cleveland CryBabies - MLB
Apr 701:26:35Tap to summarizeThis episode of Sports' Forgotten Heroes dives into the intriguing saga of Ossie Vitt, manager for the Cleveland Indians from 1938 to 1940, exploring his tumultuous tenure which ultimately led to the team's notorious nickname, the 'Cleveland Crybabies.' Vitt, who had a terrific record in the minor leagues, was brought in to elevate the Indians amidst a competitive landscape dominated by teams like the New York Yankees and the Detroit Tigers. Despite initial improvements in the team's performance under his leadership, tensions brewed as Vitt's management style clashed with the players' expectations. Key incidents, such as verbal altercations with star players Bob Feller and Mel Harder, culminated in a revolt that saw the players demand his dismissal from management. Cleveland Sports' Historian/author Gary Webster, who recently authored a book on this period of Cleveland's history called, "CRYBABY REBELLION," joins the podcast as we discuss the dynamics between Vitt and his players, shedding light on how his abrasive approach, while effective in some respects, ultimately alienated the very individuals he was tasked with leading. We explore his management style, how Ty Cobb influenced Vitt, and how the intersection of management philosophy and player morale can lead to significant ramifications for a team's success.
Transcribe →160: Ernie Lombardi - MLB
Aug 1201:00:08Tap to summarizeErnie Lombardi retired from Major League Baseball in 1947 and was not enshrined in the Baseball Hall of Fame until 1986. Many theories abound as to why it took Lombardi so long to get in. But, facts are facts, and his enshrinement was way over due, after all, Lombardi did things as a catcher that few before, or since, have accomplished. Despite his lack of speed, he might have been one of the slowest to ever play the game, and that could have been one of the reasons it took him so long to make it to Cooperstown, he retired from the game with a .306 career batting average. Twice he led the National League in batting average. In 1938 he hit .342 and won the MVP award. In 1942, at the age of 34 with the Boston Braves, he again led the National League in batting with a .330 batting average. A 7-time All-Star, during the 5-year stretch of 1934 through 1938, Lombardi hit .305, .343, .333, .334, .342. He had a career OPS of .818. On this episode of SFH, guest Robert Baker and I look back at the 17-year career of Ernie Lombardi, the highlights, and the depressing low lights as well.
Transcribe →159: Charlie Berry - MLB/NFL
Jul 2900:54:12Tap to summarizeCharlie Berry is one of the most unique individuals in the history of sports. Not only did he play Major League Baseball for 11 seasons with the Philadelphia Athletics, Boston Red Sox, and Chicago White Sox, he also played in the NFL with the Pottsville Maroons in 1925 and 1926. Pottsville, which owned the best record in the 1925 season to claim the NFL Championship, was stripped of its title (check out SFH episode 158 for more), due to a series of administrative controversies, none of which stemmed from playing the game. After his playing days were over, Berry became an American League umpire and was on the field for Don Larsen's perfect game in the 1956 World Series. In fact, Berry was an umpire for over two decades. At the same time, Berry was also a head linesman in the NFL and was a part of the crew that officiated the 1958 NFL Championship Game between the New York Giants and Baltimore Colts, the game commonly referred to as the "Greatest Game Ever Played." On this episode of SFH, we look back at the career of Berry with guest Jeffrey Payne.Companies mentioned in this episode: Sports History Network Sports Forgotten Heroes Charlie Berry Cal Hubbard Pro Football Hall of Fame Baseball Hall of Fame Pottsville Maroons Don Larson New York Giants Baltimore Colts Philadelphia Athletics Boston Red Sox Chicago White Sox Eager Sculpture Ingersoll Rand
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