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Is This A Great Game, Or What?
Is This A Great Game, Or What?
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Hall of Fame Baseball Writer Tim Kurkjian is joined by his son, Jeff, as they chat all things baseball. Each week you will hear from one of the sport's most storied experts on the history of the game and how it pertains to today. Plus, every week they will be joined by a guest. Without a question, there will be plenty of father-son prodding throughout the show!
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We said goodbye to an absolute legend, Bill Mazeroski. He also earned a spot on Tim’s All-Defense Team—alongside several other incredibly skilled defenders. We also recapped Jeff’s weekend adventure involving a pool of ice water (a bold but smart move, Jeff). Eddie Murray was a major topic this week as we celebrated his birthday, along with so many other great baseball birthdays. We also remembered Tony C., lost on this day—perhaps the bravest of them all. Dave Kingman’s baseball card made an appearance during the show, and honestly, he could probably still play in 2026—though maybe not for the best reasons. Tim shared some special memories from his very first Spring Training, especially fitting as he heads to much warmer weather this week (which we’re all looking forward to). And next week, we’ve got absolutely MASSIVE news we can’t wait to share. If you’ve been following along, nothing will change for you—and the same goes for anyone new. But be sure to tune in next week for all the details! Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights. Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We’re running the full gambit on the show this week with Tim Kurkjian and his son, Jeff. If you’re interested in attending Jeff’s live event, visit GreatGameOrWhat.com for details — we’d love to see you there.With Spring Training underway, no one is more excited than this father-son duo. We also couldn’t let the day pass without celebrating Michael Jordan’s birthday and debating the best No. 62 of all time — a conversation that certainly delivered.Plus, we’re taking the “Ober” on Three Cards in the Bathroom.Tim closes out the show with a beautiful All-Presidents Team for Team Tim. If you’ve created one of your own and want to hear it on the air, head to GreatGameOrWhat.com and submit it today! Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights. Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Super Bowl is DONE, which means for some teams, pitchers and catchers report TODAY! This is what we’ve been waiting for all offseason. Spring Training is here, and this is when our show hits primetime. We can’t thank you enough for being along for the ride — and don’t forget to hit subscribe!Today, we dive into Tim Kurkjian’s all-time favorite Spring Training stories, featuring warthogs, bicycles, and softball gloves. We also celebrate a few birthdays, including one from Australia (not something you see every day).We rip some cards and see what we can uncover — always a good time with “Three Cards in the Bathroom.” Tim may be a historian of the game, but there’s one never-achieved matchup he’ll defend forever.Soak it all in, folks. Spring Training has arrived, and Tim and Jeff Kurkjian are celebrating right along with you. Thanks for listening, and as always, thanks for being part of our family. Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights. Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tim and Jeff Kurkjian can’t help but be fascinated (once again) by the lingering snow from the storm—though their dogs are clearly over it. Big shoutout to our SABR friends in Las Vegas: thanks for having us, and welcome to the family to those who are new!Jeff quizzes Tim on Grammy nominees and winners, and surprisingly, Tim holds his own. How would you have done? If you love this country, you’ll love Team Tim, as we take a tour through America’s cities. We also dive into two major free-agent signings, with Tim breaking down the impact of Eugenio Suárez and Luis Arraez.And don’t even mention Pinewood Derby to Tim—or karate to Jeff—trust us, both are sore subjects. We also reminisce about some great players, including the “tenth man,” Will Clark (you’ll have to tune in to find out what that means).We’re hoping to grow our YouTube following, and it’s easy to help: search “Is This A Great Game, Or What?” on YouTube and hit subscribe. You can watch the full show in video form—how neat is that? Sure, we’re easy on the eyes, but the reactions and laughs are even better on video. Thanks so much for supporting the show! Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights. Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
SNOWED IN! We had a blast recording this episode from home—both of us snowed in (outside, of course). Tim was rescued by the plows just in time to hit record. Jeff, meanwhile, somehow still made it to his full-time job.On This Date in Baseball History, we tip our caps to “my man” and Harold Reynolds. And whenever Tim breaks out the cards, you know it’s going to be a good time. We also settle the debate on the greatest player to wear No. 59—and yes, it’s a current player!Plus, a puzzling story from Tim involving his grandson proves that even a guy with a massive baseball brain can struggle when it comes to actual puzzles.All this and more on this week’s edition of Is This a Great Game, or What? Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights. Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Carlos Beltrán and Andruw Jones will join Jeff Kent as the National Baseball Hall of Fame Class of 2026. Longtime Hall of Fame voter Tim Kurkjian weighs in with his thoughts, including the one other player he voted for who fell short this year.We break down Beltrán’s playoff performances, along with the lingering controversy surrounding sign-stealing. For Jones, we marvel once again at his elite center-field defense and his remarkable youth—highlighted by hitting two home runs in Game 1 of the World Series at just 19 years old. Incredible.The conversation continues with stories surrounding a notable retirement and the unfortunate passing of a pitching great. Tim also presses on toward No. 99 in his countdown of the best players to wear each uniform number. And this week, Team Tim takes advantage of a current weakness in Jeff’s life. Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights. Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Don Mattingly just took a job that lets him work alongside his son, so we couldn’t think of a better guest to have on. Oh—and he also happens to be one of Tim’s favorite players to cover back in the day. We cover everything from fishing for 200-pound fish to talking hitting with Ted Williams, plus a shared love of country music and Don’s questionable knowledge of Lou Gehrig. Widely known as one of the best guys in the game, Mattingly has done it all. From managing the Marlins and Dodgers to serving as bench coach for the Blue Jays—and now the Phillies—whether he’s playing, coaching, or managing, he’s always got stories to tell. We loved bringing you this exclusive offseason interview. If there’s anyone else you’d like to hear on the show, let us know—GreatGameOrWhat.com is the best way to reach us. Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights. Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It wouldn’t be a father-son podcast without some exciting family news, right? There’s another Kurkjian joining the mix! Jeff kicks off the show by sharing the big announcement, while Tim adds to the excitement and sends birthday wishes to a very special family member.Alex Bregman headlines the offseason with his signing by the Chicago Cubs—but who’s next to fall in the free-agent market? Plus, Tim continues his new series, stepping things up with some more challenging numbers.And Jeff pulls out a special baseball card for this episode’s edition of Three Cards in the Bathroom. Thanks for listening and for being part of our family! Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights. Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tim and Jeff Kurkjian entertain us with their knowledge of—and deep love for—the game. If you’re new to the show, welcome to another offseason edition. You’ll find a home here if you love baseball and enjoy sharing that passion with family.This week, Tim and Jeff share personal updates, including the exciting news of Tim’s fourth grandchild and the return of his dog, Rexie—an adventure Tim will explain.The offseason is always changing, and while free-agent signings continue to unfold, we stay as up to date as possible. The Hall of Fame vote is also a major focus this week. Ballots have been cast and are currently being counted, and Tim shares who he voted for and what he’s most looking forward to ahead of the announcement on January 20.Please support the show by following, subscribing, and rating. We love hearing your feedback! Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights. Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If you haven't listened to part one yet, STOP and go back one week and start with that episode. The best moment from each of our interviews from this year especially made just for you. These include Joe West, Harold Reynolds, Hall of Famers Chipper Jones and Billy Wagner, plus so many others. Make sure to let us know who you would like to join us in 2026 because we would love to have them on the air thanks to your suggestions. You can reach us at GreatGameOrWhat.com. Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights. Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Merry Christmas and a belated Happy Hanukkah to all who celebrated! We’re excited to bring you part one of our two-part year-end recap, featuring some of our favorite moments with our incredible guests this year.Cal Ripken Jr. joined us with his son around Father’s Day, Andy Kurkjian (Tim’s oldest brother) stopped by to talk about their late brother Matt on Lou Gehrig Day, and Dan Le Batard, as always, kept things fun by poking a little fun.The first half of 2025 was one heck of a ride, and we’re so grateful you took it with us. As always, subscribing and following is the best way to support this father-son show, and we truly appreciate you doing so! Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights. Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tim and Jeff Kurkjian are back with another offseason podcast, breaking down a few of the biggest moves teams made following the Winter Meetings. But the real highlight? They kick off the holiday spirit early with a special Team Tim Christmas celebration.After spending some quality time together, the duo recaps everything from shoveling snow to hanging TVs—proving once again they can do it all. It’s also time for Three Cards From the Bathroom… who will Tim pull this week? And, without further ado, they wrap up their Seamheads for 2025.Thanks for watching or listening! The best way to support the show is to follow and subscribe—and don’t forget to share it with a friend. Your support means a lot to both Kurkjian boys. Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights. Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tim and Jeff Kurkjian dive into the election of Jeff Kent to the National Baseball Hall of Fame—plus the players who just missed the cut, the steroid-era debates, and more. It’s a deeper dive than you usually hear from these two, but a warranted one, offering an interesting contrast between Jeff (born in 1993), who grew up watching these players, and Tim, who has been a Hall of Fame voter for what feels like 150 years.We also talk Christmas décor as both homes get fully decked out. Tim’s tree is so massive he couldn’t set it up on his own—honestly admirable that he asked for help, because most of us men wouldn’t. And Tim’s outfit this episode, while improved, is still far too nice for our usual format. Watch on YouTube to see it for yourself, and don’t forget to subscribe!We wrap up with a look at notable moments in baseball history that happened on this date, and Tim closes the show with an excellent Team Tim, fittingly all about birthdays—since tomorrow is his! Thanks for listening, and we wish you and your family health and happiness! Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights. Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tim and Jeff Kurkjian recap their Thanksgiving trip to Florida, including the results of their big golf match (though one of them wasn’t eager to offer many details). Tim also shares a bold move he made at the airport.With the Winter Meetings beginning this weekend, Tim reflects on some of his favorite stories from his early days as a young writer. He’ll be covering the events for ESPN from Bristol, so be sure to tune in for updates.The newly released Hall of Fame ballot features two major names — Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens — on the Contemporary Era ballot. Tim and Jeff break down all eight candidates, including one Jeff is especially passionate about.In “On This Date in Baseball and General History,” Jeff takes the lead, highlighting Hall of Famers replacing one another, the Dodgers’ back-to-back-to-back Rookie of the Year streak, and a notable SportsCenter milestone.Finally, they close with “Three Cards in the Bathroom,” where Tim sifts through a stack of cards he found in the baseball-themed guest bathroom, sparking even more stories from the Hall of Fame writer. Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights. Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tim and Jeff Kurkjian are bringing you fresh content every week throughout the offseason—every move, every storyline, all the offseason action. They’ve got it covered.You’ll also get the classic segments you love, including On This Date in Baseball History and Team Tim. And since it’s Thanksgiving, we couldn’t resist giving this episode a festive twist… let’s just say Tim’s team will have you gobbling.We’re also digging into some old baseball cards, each one sparking the kind of incredible stories only Tim Kurkjian can tell. Plus, a wardrobe malfunction somehow carries us through the entire episode.Enjoy—and be sure to follow or subscribe wherever you’re listening! Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights. Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tim Kurkjian, an expert on all things baseball, is joined by his son Jeff for Is This A Great Game, Or What? If you’re new to the show—welcome! Be sure to follow or subscribe wherever you’re listening, and thank you in advance.For our regular members of the family, welcome back to our offseason run of the podcast. Expect weekly episodes—sometimes even more. We kick things off with Jeff’s move to a new home, with help from Tim, of course—the greatest dad on earth.We also break down the major awards from the end of the 2025 season, and Tim brings not one but two “Team Tim’s” centered around the MVP races. It’s bound to be a great show for all of you to enjoy.Thanks so much for being part of our family! Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights. Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This offseason, you’ll hear from Tim and Jeff Kurkjian every Tuesday, bringing you more great baseball content each week.This week marks our very first DOUBLE PLAY episode — a look back at one of the best interviews from the previous season.While in Cooperstown for the 2024 Hall of Fame Induction Weekend, Tim and Jeff sat down with the greatest catcher of all time, Johnny Bench. A huge thank you to the Otesaga Hotel for letting us record in their historic home. Johnny shares stories that will make you both laugh and cry, and his love for his dad is a perfect fit for this podcast.Tim and Jeff are taking a much-needed week off after an exciting baseball season, but they’ll be back next week to recap all of the 2025 awards!Don’t stress—just subscribe or follow wherever you’re listening, and you won’t miss a thing! Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights. Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ken Rosenthal is a household name in baseball. You’ve seen him on the field during some of the game’s biggest moments, but he’s also one of the finest writers the sport has ever known. One day, we’re certain he’ll take his rightful place in the National Baseball Hall of Fame.Ken and Tim go way back to their days competing at rival newspapers in Baltimore during the 1980s. As Ken tells it, though, there wasn’t much of a competition—which happens to be Tim’s least favorite part of this interview (but we think you’ll love it).Ken shares the highs and lows of postgame interviews, some of his favorite stories he’s written, and a treasure trove of Ripken anecdotes that are sure to make any baseball fan smile.We also recap this incredible World Series, talk podcasts, and cover so much more in an interview you won’t want to miss. Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights. Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Well folks, that’s a wrap on the 2025 baseball season! The Los Angeles Dodgers have repeated as champions — but of course, you already knew that. Now, we bring you Tim Kurkjian’s in-depth breakdown of the 2025 World Series between the Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays — and what made it the best World Series Tim has ever covered.We’ll also take a look at some key On This Date moments in baseball history, including a memorable World Series finish that happened on this very day. Plus, we highlight the father of a former guest who gets a special mention, and we recognize one of you for inspiring today’s “Team Tim” segment — something Tim plans to do a lot more of now that we’re in the offseason.Don’t go anywhere — tomorrow, you’ll hear from Ken Rosenthal! Be sure to subscribe or follow wherever you get your podcasts. And even though the season’s over, we’ve got plenty of great content planned throughout the postseason. Don’t forget about The Kurkjians just because it’s November! Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights. Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thank you for what has been an absolutely incredible season of baseball and an amazing run for this podcast (can't wait for next year). We’re celebrating Halloween with unforgettable memories and a Team Tim episode that’s sure to blow your spooky socks off (with a little help from a special family guest).We recap the games in Los Angeles — packed with unbelievable baseball moments, including another first from Shohei, a surprising country star connection, and one wild coincidence. Plus, we dive into a pitching recap highlighting some unsung heroes who deserve their moment.What a postseason it’s been! But just wait until you hear how good the Blue Jays’ offense has been — it’s almost unbelievable. Even with the Dodgers’ strong pitching, this team continues to thrive.Oh, and Tim’s back in Canada! This time, though, he’s not recording from a hotel… but from a basement? Don’t worry, he explains. Visit GreatGameOrWhat.com to contact the show with your questions, quips and insights. Joy Pop Productions LLCSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.




