Major League Baseball (MLB)

1951 MLB Audio & Video Clips

Ted Williams Radio Interview

3 minutes

1969 MLB·1969 Red Sox·Keith Morris·Sports Illustrated·Ted Williams·

In 1969, amidst a transformative era for Major League Baseball, a radio interview featuring Ted Williams, one of the sport's most revered figures, took place. By this time, Williams had already cemented his legacy as one of the greatest hitters in baseball history, having retired as a player in 1960. His post-retirement career saw him transitioning into various roles, including that of a manager, notably taking the helm for the Washington Senators in 1969. This interview offers insights into Williams' perspectives on baseball, his managerial philosophy, and his reflections on a storied playing career that spanned over two decades. The interviewer, navigating the conversation, draws out Williams' deep knowledge of the game, his approach to leadership, and his thoughts on the current state of baseball.

This exchange serves not only as a historical record but as an intimate exploration of the mind of a baseball legend at a pivotal moment in his post-playing career. The year 1969 marked Williams' entry into managing, a role that would challenge him to impart his wisdom to a new generation of players. The interview illuminates the challenges and rewards of this transition, providing a rare glimpse into Williams' aspirations and challenges as he embarked on this new chapter. It's a compelling listen for anyone interested in the evolution of baseball legends and the insights they carry beyond their playing days.

Angels in the Outfield

1½ hours 1951

The batters couldn't hit water if they fell out of a boat. The fielders must...

Angels in the Outfield / The batters couldn't hit water if they fell out of a boat. The fielders must be using frying pans instead of baseball mitts. It looks like the lowly Pittsburgh Pirates haven't got a prayer...until the prayers of a young orphan girl get the Pirates some celestial support! Comedy and charm form the winning lineup of Angels in the Outfield, starring Paul Douglas as the team's short-fused manager. "Dogs have fleas, managers have sportswriters," he grouses to a columnist (Janet Leigh) covering the team. Adding to the fun are game footage from back in the day (buffs will love to spot the stars); support from Keenan Wynn, Spring Byington and more familiar talents; plus unbilled bits by baseball greats Joe DiMaggio and Ty Cobb. One more footnote about this nifty '50s diamond: President Eisenhower called it his favorite movie. Batter up!

Ernie Harwell - 1950s Giants and Orioles - Radio Interview Part 4 of 8

29 minutes 1951–1959

In this 2006 audio segment, Ernie Harwell, the legendary voice of baseball, shares his experiences...

Ernie Harwell - 1950s Giants and Orioles - Radio Interview Part 4 of 8 / In this 2006 audio segment, Ernie Harwell, the legendary voice of baseball, shares his experiences from his early broadcasting career with the New York Giants and the Baltimore Orioles, prior to his iconic tenure with the Detroit Tigers. Known for his warm, eloquent delivery and deep connection with baseball fans, Harwell’s recounting of his time with these two teams offers a rare insight into the formative years of his illustrious career. The clip provides a glimpse into Major League Baseball during the mid-20th century, through the eyes of one of its most eloquent narrators. At this point, Harwell had been retired, yet his narratives and memories continued to resonate with a sense of timelessness and passion for the game. Reflecting on the period before he became synonymous with Detroit baseball, Harwell discusses the distinct atmospheres, key players, and memorable games associated with the Giants and Orioles. His tenure with these teams laid the foundation for a broadcasting career that would endear him to millions of fans and leave an indelible mark on the sport. This segment is not just a trip down memory lane but a masterclass in the history and evolution of baseball broadcasting. It showcases the early stages of a career that would profoundly influence how the sport was experienced by fans around the world.

Tops-in-Sports interview with Ralph Kiner

5 minutes May 14, 1962May 14, 1962

Hosted by retired NFL star Kyle Rote, these 5-minute programs feature interviews with some of the top figures in sports

Tops-in-Sports interview with Ralph Kiner / Hosted by retired NFL star Kyle Rote, these 5-minute programs feature interviews with some of the top figures in sports during 1962

Interview with First Baseman Mickey Vernon

39 minutes Feb 19, 1974

Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.

Interview with First Baseman Mickey Vernon / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.

Ted Williams Interviewed by Leo Cloutier in 1952

6 minutes Feb 1, 1952

Ted Williams, aka The Splendid Splinter, The Greatest hitter of the Boston Red Sox, is...

Ted Williams Interviewed by Leo Cloutier in 1952 / Ted Williams, aka The Splendid Splinter, The Greatest hitter of the Boston Red Sox, is interviewed by Leo Cloutier in early 1952. Ted talks about Fly Fishing and Leo invites him to hunt deer in New Hampshire.

Interview with Hall of Fame Outfielder Enos Slaughter

1½ hours Dec 21, 1976

Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s.

Interview with Hall of Fame Outfielder Enos Slaughter / Historian Eugene C. Murdock interviewed several former baseball players that had been active in baseball in the 1920s and 1930s. Murdock was chairman of the history department at Marietta College. The interviews were not professionally recorded, and the audio quality is variable.