Padres EVT Podcast: Episode 05 with Don Orsillo
Credit: EVT Sports
This one had been a long time coming, as Mr. Orsillo and I had been coordinating a time best for us both. We were fortunate to be given this opportunity to talk to him fresh off his hiring as the San Diego Padres new announcer.
After 15 years in Boston, he takes his prized personality and recognizable voice to America’s Finest City. Most novice Padres fans really probably don’t know the quality of announcing Orsillo possesses. They will be in for a treat as he should blend well with Mark Grant and form and excellent duo. Grant has a personality much like Jerry Remy, whom Orsillo formed a great partnership with in Boston. The two will have a lot of fun in the booth.
We speak to Mr. Orsillo about his time in Boston and how much the Red Sox faithful has meant to him. In particular, he shares some stories about Manny Ramirez and some of his favorite moments in Bean Town. We also speak about his new beginnings in California and how his life has come full circle from California to New England and now back to California. As in life, the game of baseball is circular. Amazing how that happens.
We also included some fantastic footage from the Red Sox television network. We discuss the famous “Pizza Incident” and have fun talking about other memorable and funny moments he has had behind the microphone. The video of the “Pizza Incident” and Don’s reaction is priceless and worth a look at.
He speaks about his history calling no-hitters and the fact the Padres are awaiting the franchises first. Orsillo’s first game for TBS was the 2007 N.L. Wild Card game in which he announced the famous slide at home in which Matt Holliday failed to touch the plate against Trevor Hoffman and the Padres. Bad memories for Padres fans, but ironic that was his first time doing a playoff game for the network.
Of course, we discuss the 2016 Padres and what the team looks like on paper. He has some interesting comments in regards to the team and who he is looking forward to seeing this coming season. We also tackle the stigma that the Red Sox overturned while he was there to form a successful franchise. Something that the Padres are currently trying to do.
He also talked about his relationships with former Padres icons Jerry Coleman and Tony Gwynn. Don recognizes the special place that both men have in the hearts of San Diego Padres fans. Don Orsillo is a class act. We hear that from all that know and interact with him, and now we at EVT know that firsthand. Please enjoy the podcast and if you have any questions or concerns, let us know.
James was born and raised in America’s Finest City. He is a passionate baseball fan with even more passion towards his hometown Padres. Editor-In-Chief of EastVillageTimes.com. Always striving to bring you the highest quality in San Diego Sports News. Original content, with original ideas, that’s our motto. Enjoy.