Summary of The Moth Podcast Episode: "Marie Hershkowitz & Matthew McGough: Baseball Stories"
Release Date: October 6, 2015
Host/Author: The Moth
Episode Title: Marie Hershkowitz & Matthew McGough: Baseball Stories
Recording Location: Citi Field, Queens, New York
Introduction: Recording Amidst a Historic Mets Playoff Run
In this special episode of The Moth, host Dan Kennedy immerses listeners in a unique environment: Citi Field during a pivotal playoff run for the New York Mets. The decision, inspired by Moth podcast producer Whitney Jones, to record live at the stadium adds an extra layer of excitement and authenticity to the storytelling experience. Dan shares his personal connection to the game, despite not being deeply familiar with the Mets' season stakes, highlighting the emotional resonance sports events can have on individuals.
Notable Quote:
Dan Kennedy remarks, "[...] storytelling podcast people shouldn't be at sporting events, I guess, because I'm just looking around, seeing people like, leave it to the moth, really, to find the heartfelt weepiness of a baseball game."
(Timestamp: 12:29)
Marie Hershkowitz: A Lifelong Mets Fan’s Journey
Marie Hershkowitz takes listeners back to the summer of 1965, a transformative period just before her junior high school years. Raised in a hardworking family where vacations were virtually nonexistent, Marie found solace and excitement in discovering the New York Mets on television. Her initial disinterest in baseball turned into a passionate fandom as she and her sister began attending games, largely due to their parents' efforts to provide them with enriching experiences despite their demanding work schedules.
Key Highlights:
- Discovery of Baseball: Marie describes the moment she decided to watch the Mets: "I watched the game and I realized that this is simple. I can follow this." (Timestamp: 4:27)
- Attending Games: By 1966, Marie and her sister were making the hour-and-a-half train trip to Shea Stadium independently.
- Rise of the Mets: The team's dramatic improvement from last place to World Series champions in 1969 is a central theme, symbolizing hope and fulfillment of promises.
Emotional Climax: Marie recounts the intense experience of being at the World Series game in 1969. Her mother's determination to secure tickets, despite obstacles, culminates in a successful but frantic race to the ballpark. The moment the Mets clinched the championship live at Shea Stadium remains her "best sports moment ever," deeply intertwining her family's sacrifices with their shared love for the team.
Notable Quote:
Marie reflects, "parenting is more than that. It's about keeping promises and about self sacrifice."
(Timestamp: 12:29)
Dan Kennedy’s Reflections: The Humanity in Sports Fandom
After Marie's heartfelt narrative, Dan Kennedy offers his insights, emphasizing the human connections and shared experiences that sports bring to individuals and communities. He humorously contrasts his typical solitary nature with the vibrant, collective passion observed among fans at Citi Field. Dan appreciates how The Moth uncovers profound personal stories within the seemingly ordinary acts of being a sports fan.
Notable Observation:
Dan notes the emotional reactions of fans around him, stating, "I have scant idea of what's going on or what's at stake. I know how to play the game, but I don't really know what's happening in terms of [...] if they win this, what happens."
(Timestamp: 3:03)
Matthew McGough: Perseverance to Become a Yankee Bat Boy
Matthew McGough shares an inspiring tale of persistence and passion, detailing his quest to become a bat boy for the New York Yankees. Starting as a dedicated fan in his youth, Matthew's determination leads him to take unconventional steps—writing letters and making persistent phone calls—to secure his dream role, despite initial setbacks and skepticism from the organization.
Key Highlights:
- Initial Desire: Matthew's admiration for players like Dom Mattingly fuels his ambition to work with the Yankees.
- Persistence Pays Off: After multiple attempts and facing dismissive responses, Matthew finally secures an interview, leading to his official hiring as a bat boy.
- First Day Challenges: His first day involves navigating the chaotic environment of Yankee Stadium, interacting with players, and overcoming unexpected hurdles, such as finding a bat stretcher for Mattingly amidst the game's high stakes.
Emotional Climax: Matthew vividly describes the pressure and adrenaline of his responsibility: "If I don't come through on this mission, Mattingly is going to go up there against Roger Clemens and the Red Sox on opening day with a toothpick in his hand." His successful fulfillment of the task not only earns him respect but also leaves a lasting impression of achievement and mentorship from Mattingly himself.
Notable Quote:
Matthew encapsulates his experience with, "When there's a great deal of persistence and a little bit of common sense, even if the thing you're chasing may not exist, you can sometimes will it into being."
(Timestamp: 26:14)
Conclusion: Celebrating Stories Rooted in Passion and Dedication
As the episode wraps up, Dan Kennedy acknowledges the profound narratives shared by both Marie and Matthew, illustrating how passion for baseball transcends the game itself, fostering deep familial bonds and personal growth. The episode underscores The Moth's mission to spotlight genuine, heartfelt stories that resonate on a universal level, reminding listeners of the extraordinary within the ordinary.
Credits:
- Host: Dan Kennedy
- Producers: Whitney Jones
- Recording Supervision: Paul Ruest at Argo Studios, New York City
- Presentation: PRX, The Public Radio Exchange
Final Thoughts:
Dan closes with gratitude, encouraging listeners to continue sharing and cherishing their own "story worthy" moments, reinforcing the podcast's commitment to authentic and impactful storytelling.
This episode of The Moth masterfully intertwines personal anecdotes with the broader cultural tapestry of baseball, offering listeners both entertainment and meaningful reflections on dedication, family, and the human spirit.