Summary of "Matthew McGough: My First Day With The Yankees" – The Moth Podcast

Episode Release Date: September 15, 2008

Introduction

In the heartfelt and humorous story "My First Day With The Yankees," Matthew McGough recounts his passionate journey from being a devoted New York Yankees fan to securing a coveted role as the team's bat boy. Recorded live at The Moth mainstage, McGough's narrative is a testament to youthful determination, persistence, and the unexpected lessons that come with chasing one's dreams.

Early Years as a Yankees Fan

Matthew's love affair with the Yankees began early in his childhood. He fondly remembers attending games with his family, supporting legends like Reggie Jackson and Dave Winfield, and idolizing players such as Dom Mattingly during his teenage years.

"I grew up a huge fan of the New York Yankees... playing Dave Winfield and then when I kind of came into my teens, Dom Mattingly, who was, you know, my absolute favorite player." (03:15)

The Incident That Sparked Ambition

In the fall of 1991, while attending a game alone for the first time, Matthew observed the bat boy struggling to play catch with right fielder Jesse Barfield. Frustrated by the bat boy's ineptitude, he questioned the necessity of the position.

"He was Throwing the ball over Jesse Barfield's head... I don't understand why he has that job." (05:10)

Determined to secure the role himself, Matthew took a bold step by writing handwritten letters to every Yankees executive, expressing his desire to become the new bat boy.

Pursuing the Bat Boy Job

After not receiving responses to his letters, Matthew demonstrated his perseverance by following up with phone calls. His tenacity eventually paid off when he received an official invitation for an interview with Nick Priori, the clubhouse manager.

"I wrote a handwritten letter to everyone from Steinbrenner on down... And basically said, you know, my name is Matt and I'm 16 years old and I'm a huge fan of the Yankees." (08:00)

The Interview Experience

On the day of the interview, Matthew found himself navigating the vast Yankees Stadium alone. Awaiting Nick Priori in the lobby, he encountered a gruff and unprofessional demeanor from the manager, who brusquely dismissed his presence.

"He has this greased back hair... Are your parents going to mind you taking the train home late at night?" (12:30)

Despite the rocky start, Matthew remained hopeful about his application.

First Day at the Yankees

Six months later, on Opening Day 1993, Matthew returned to the stadium as the newly appointed bat boy. The experience was overwhelming, with the stadium buzzing with players, media, and dignitaries. Meeting his idol, Dom Mattingly, was a surreal moment that solidified his place within the team.

"It's my first day in pinstripes... [Mattingly] could have said so many other things that wouldn't have been as cool as that." (19:45)

The Bat Stretcher Quest

Matthew's first task was both simple and daunting: find a bat stretcher for Dom Mattingly. His initial attempt to secure one encountered challenges, including Nick Priori's abrasive response and the realization that he didn't know what a bat stretcher looked like.

"Could this possibly be a joke?... I don't even know what a Bach stretcher looks like." (25:10)

Undeterred, Matthew navigated through the stadium, seeking help from players like Danny Tartabull and ultimately succeeding in procuring the necessary equipment just in time for the game.

Conclusion and Lessons Learned

Reflecting on his experience, Matthew emphasizes the importance of persistence and common sense. His journey, though fraught with uncertainty and naïveté, taught him that unwavering determination can lead to unexpected successes, even when the path isn't clear.

"When there's with 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." (32:30)

Matthew McGough's story is not just about his first day with the Yankees but also about the broader lessons of chasing one's dreams with relentless commitment and adaptability.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• "I grew up a huge fan of the New York Yankees... playing Dave Winfield and then when I kind of came into my teens, Dom Mattingly, who was, you know, my absolute favorite player." — Matthew McGough (03:15)

• "He was Throwing the ball over Jesse Barfield's head... I don't understand why he has that job." — Matthew McGough (05:10)

• "I wrote a handwritten letter to everyone from Steinbrenner on down... And basically said, you know, my name is Matt and I'm 16 years old and I'm a huge fan of the Yankees." — Matthew McGough (08:00)

• "He has this greased back hair... Are your parents going to mind you taking the train home late at night?" — Matthew McGough (12:30)

• "It's my first day in pinstripes... [Mattingly] could have said so many other things that wouldn't have been as cool as that." — Matthew McGough (19:45)

• "Could this possibly be a joke?... I don't even know what a Bach stretcher looks like." — Matthew McGough (25:10)

• "When there's with 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." — Matthew McGough (32:30)

Matthew McGough's engaging storytelling encapsulates the essence of The Moth's mission: sharing true, personal stories that resonate with audiences through authenticity and emotional depth. His first day with the Yankees serves as an inspiring narrative about youthful ambition and the rewards of unwavering dedication.