Baseball By Design: Stories of Minor League Logos and Nicknames
Paul Caputo
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Baseball By Design tells the story of America one minor league baseball logo and nickname at a time. Paul Caputo covers minor league baseball at all levels for the website SportsLogos.net. On this podcast, he talks with front office personnel and designers about the origins of some of the game‘s best and wackiest logos and nicknames.
Twitter: @Count2Baseball
Instagram: @baseballbydesign
Available episodes
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2 days ago
Buffalo Bisons
The Buffalo Bisons' nickname dates back to the late 1800s and has endured—along with its unique pronunciation and pluralization—since then. Guests on this episode include:
* Pat Malacaro, Bisons Broadcaster, Twitter @PatWGR
* Ranger Amy, Twitter @RangerAmy
* Dan Simon, Studio Simon: www.studiosimon.net, Insta @studio_simon
Find the Baseball By Design podcast online:
* Twitter @Count2Baseball
* Instagram @baseballbydesign
* linktr.ee/BaseballByDesign
Baseball By Design is a member of the Curved Brim Media Network.
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Sep 12, 2023
Staten Island FerryHawks
The independent Staten Island FerryHawks brought baseball back to the New York City borough after the untimely demise of the Staten Island Yankees with a brand that personifies baseball fans in the area. Guests this week include:
* Eric Schuffler, GM, Staten Island FerryHawks, Twitter @eric_shuffler
* Skye Dillon, www.skyedesignstudios.com
* George Falkowski, "Meet Me at the Bat," Twitter @GeorgeFalkowski
* Dan Simon, Studio Simon: www.studiosimon.net, Insta @studio_simon
Find the Baseball By Design podcast online:
* Twitter @Count2Baseball
* Instagram @baseballbydesign
* linktr.ee/BaseballByDesign
Baseball By Design is a member of the Curved Brim Media Network.
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Sep 5, 2023
Baseballpalooza Ride-Along
Join the guys as we take you through the magic of a Baseballpalooza road trip! This year, the gang visited the Vancouver Canadians, Tri-City Dust Devils, Hillsboro Hops, and Tacoma Rainiers, and each of the guys chimes in over the course of four days.
Find the Baseball By Design podcast online:
* Twitter @Count2Baseball
* Instagram @baseballbydesign
* linktr.ee/BaseballByDesign
Baseball By Design is a member of the Curved Brim Media Network.
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Aug 29, 2023
Birmingham Barons
The Birmingham Barons have one of the oldest nicknames in minor league baseball. Since 1901, various teams that have played in Birmingham have gone by the name, or some variation, including the historic Coal Barons and Black Barons. On this episode:
* Jonathan Nelson, Birmingham Barons, www.milb.com/birmingham, Twitter @JonathanN_Bham
* Marc Cheatham, Black Baseball Mixtape, blackbaseballmixtape.com, Insta @blackbaseballmixtape
* Dan Simon, Studio Simon: www.studiosimon.net, Insta @studio_simon
Find the Baseball By Design podcast online:
* Twitter @Count2Baseball
* Instagram @baseballbydesign
* linktr.ee/BaseballByDesign
Baseball By Design is a member of the Curved Brim Media Network.
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Aug 22, 2023
Florence Y’alls
The Florence Y'alls, a team in the independent professional Frontier League, are named for a mall, a water tower, and a grammatical staple of Southern culture. Guests include:
* Max Johnson, Florence Y'alls, florenceyalls.com
* Jay Becker, BLDG Design, www.bldgbrands.com
* Mignon Fogarty, Grammar Girl, www.quickanddirtytips.com/grammar-girl
* Dan Simon, Studio Simon: www.studiosimon.net, Insta @studio_simon
Find the Baseball By Design podcast online:
* Twitter @Count2Baseball
* Instagram @baseballbydesign
* linktr.ee/BaseballByDesign
Baseball By Design is a member of the Curved Brim Media Network.
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Aug 15, 2023
Columbus Clippers
The Columbus Clippers are named for a seafaring vessel that has certain alliterative qualities with the team's hometown, and have a brand that is classic and longlasting. Guests include:
* Matt Leininger, Voice of Huntington Park, Twitter @_bigmatt
* Joe Santry, Team Historian
* Dan Simon, Studio Simon: www.studiosimon.net, Insta @studio_simon
Find the Baseball By Design podcast online:
* Twitter @Count2Baseball
* Instagram @baseballbydesign
* linktr.ee/BaseballByDesign
Baseball By Design is a member of the Curved Brim Media Network.
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Aug 8, 2023
Dayton Dragons
The Dayton Dragons have been a stalwart of minor league baseball branding, with a flying lizard who has served as their logo for a quarter century. Guests include:
* Eric Deutsch, Executive Vice President, Dayton Dragons, www.milb.com/dayton
* Terry Smith, Terry Smith Creations, terrysmithcreations.com
* Ranger Amy, Twitter @RangerAmy
* Dan Simon, Studio Simon: www.studiosimon.net, Insta @studio_simon
Find the Baseball By Design podcast online:
* Twitter @Count2Baseball
* Instagram @baseballbydesign
* linktr.ee/BaseballByDesign
Baseball By Design is a member of the Curved Brim Media Network.
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Aug 1, 2023
Springfield Lucky HorseShoes
The collegiate summer level Springfield Lucky HorseShoes have a brand that is layered like a huge, open-faced sandwich, with no fewer than five distinct brands rolled into one. Guests this week include:
* Jamie Toole, Shoes team owner: shoesbaseball.com
* Ryan Foose, Fooser Sports Design: foosersports.com
* Summer Ball Summit: summerballsummit.com
* Dan Simon, Studio Simon: www.studiosimon.net, Insta @studio_simon
Find the Baseball By Design podcast online:
* Twitter @Count2Baseball
* Instagram @baseballbydesign
* linktr.ee/BaseballByDesign
Baseball By Design is a member of the Curved Brim Media Network.
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Jul 25, 2023
Frisco RoughRiders
The Double-A Frisco RoughRiders base their identity on the 26th president of the United States, Teddy Roosevelt, who famously led the 1st United States Volunteer Cavalry, which was commonly referred to as the Rough Riders, famous for their charge up San Juan Hill in support of Cuban independence from Spain.
Guests this episode include:
* Scott Burchett, RoughRiders GM: www.milb.com/frisco
* Jason Klein, Brandiose: www.brandiose.com
* Teddy Roosevelt, as portrayed by Joe Wiegand: teddyrooseveltshow.com
* Dan Simon, Studio Simon: www.studiosimon.net, Insta @studio_simon
Find the Baseball By Design podcast online:
* Twitter @Count2Baseball
* Instagram @baseballbydesign
* linktr.ee/BaseballByDesign
Baseball By Design is a member of the Curved Brim Media Network.
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Jul 18, 2023
Minot Hot Tots
The Minot Hot Tots play in the collegiate summer level Northwoods League, and are named for a potato-based regional delicacy. Guests include:
* John Bollinger, team owner: northwoodsleague.com/minot-hot-tots
* John Worthen, Worthen Design: www.worthendesign.com
* Elizabeth Meyers, I d'Eclair Pastry: www.ideclairpastry.com
* Jessie Elsbernd, Morning Fresh Dairy: www.morningfreshdairy.com
* Dan Simon, Studio Simon: www.studiosimon.net, Insta @studio_simon
Find the Baseball By Design podcast online:
* Twitter @Count2Baseball
* Instagram @baseballbydesign
* linktr.ee/BaseballByDesign
Baseball By Design is a member of the Curved Brim Media Network.
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Jul 11, 2023
Bismarck Larks
The Bismarck Larks of the collegiate summer level Northwoods League pay homage to a mild-mannered bird that makes its home in the area. But when they're feeling a bit frisky, they play as the Missouri River Motor Boaters. Team owner John Bollinger, designer John Worthen, and wildlife consultant Ranger Amy Burnett join, and Dan Simon is back with a Studio Simon Stumper!
Bismarck Larks website / Twitter @bismarcklarks
John Worthen, Worthen Design website
Wildlife Consultant Ranger Amy Burnett Twitter @RangerAmy
Baseball By Design Twitter @Count2Baseball / Instagram @baseballbydesign / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter @Curved Brim
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Jul 4, 2023
Northern Colorado Owlz with a Z
The Pioneer League's Owlz with a Z brought their name with them when they moved from Orem, Utah, to their new home in Northern Colorado, just down the road from your host. Guests this week include the Owlz with a Z's Communications Manager Blake Baker and designer Nate Martinez; designer Dan Simon, who created the original branding for the Orem Owlz with a Z back in 2005; and Baseball By Design Wildlife Correspondent Ranger Amy Burnett, live from a cemetery in Fort Collins, Colorado.
NoCo Owlz with a Z website / Twitter @OwlzNoCo
Nathan Martinez Twitter @n8martinez89
Dan Simon, Studio Simon Website / Instagram @studio_simon
Wildlife Consultant Ranger Amy Burnett Twitter @RangerAmy
Baseball By Design Twitter @Count2Baseball / Instagram @baseballbydesign / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter @Curved Brim
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Jun 27, 2023
Arkansas Travelers
The Double-A Arkansas Travelers have a storied history and a brand based on a historic fable that tells the tale of a minstrel's never-ending tune. Guests this episode include broadcaster and baseball operations director Steven Davis, Brandiose's Jason Klein, and Arkansan Hollie Sanders live from opening day.
Arkansas Travelers website / Twitter @artravs
Steven Davis Twitter @StevenDavispxp
Brandiose Website / Twitter @Brandiose
Dan Simon, Studio Simon Website / Instagram @studio_simon
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Jun 20, 2023
Walla Walla Sweets
The Walla Walla Sweets of the collegiate summer level West Coast League are named for the produce their part of the continent is known for—the sweet onions of Walla Walla, Washington. Guests on this episode include the team's first GM, Zachary Fraser, designer Dan Simon, and Nathan Castoldi of Walla Walla's own Castoldi Family Farms. Plus, Dan Simon is back with a Studio Simon Stumper!
Walla Walla Sweets linktr.ee/SweetsBaseball / twitter @WWSweets
Zachary Fraser gobulldogs.com
Dan Simon, Studio Simon Website / Instagram @studio_simon
Castoldi Family Farms www.castoldifamilyfarm.com
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Jun 13, 2023
Omaha Storm Chasers
The Omaha Storm Chasers are named for a uniquely midwestern art of seeking out the heart of the storm. On this episode, your host Paul is joined on the road by Ed Rivera of the Dad Hat Chronicles podcast, at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City by Eric Proffitt of the Earned Fun Average podcast, and in studio by Storm Chasers president Martie Cordaro and broadcaster Nicholas Badders. Plus, Dan Simon is back with a Studio Simon Stumper!
Ed Rivera, The Dad Hat Chronicles Twitter @thedadhat216
Martie J. Cordaro Twitter @OmahaPrez
Nicholas Badders Twitter @BadderUpSports
Eric Proffitt, Earned Fun Average Twitter @EPro04
Dan Simon, Studio Simon Website / Instagram @studio_simon
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Jun 6, 2023
Florence Flamingos
The collegiate summer level Florence Flamingos derive their name from alliteration—but the they've made the most of the nickname with an eye-popping brand. Guests include team president Brandon Raphael, designer Tony Canepa, and wildlife correspondent Ranger Amy Burnett, and Dan Simon is back with a Studio Simon Stumper.
Florence Flamingos Website / Twitter @FloFlamingos
Tony Canepa Website / Instagram @thetonycanepa
Ranger Amy Burnett Twitter @RangerAmy
Dan Simon, Studio Simon Website / Instagram @studio_simon
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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May 30, 2023
Las Vegas Aviators
The Las Vegas Aviators moved into a beautiful new ballpark in 2019, and got a new brand to go with their new ownership, the Howard Hughes Corporation. Guests this week include Aviators director of media relations Jim Gemma, Let's Get Two host James Christopher, and F-16 pilot Vic DiTommaso, plus Dan Simon is back with a Studio Simon Stumper!
Las Vegas Aviators Website / Twitter @AviatorsLV
James Christopher, Let's Get Two YouTube / Twitter @LetsGet2TheShow
Dan Simon, Studio Simon website / Instagram @studio_simon
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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May 23, 2023
Brandiose: Live from San Diego!
The guys from Brandiose welcome your host Paul to their studios in San Diego. This episode features Brandiose partners Jason Klein, a regular guest on this podcast, and for the first time, Casey White! The guys talk embroidery, LEGO gorillas, celery, and so much more.
And Dan Simon is back with another Studio Simon Stumper!
Brandiose Website / Twitter @Brandiose
Dan Simon, Studio Simon Website / Instagram @studio_simon
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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May 16, 2023
Jackson Rockabillys
The collegiate summer level Jackson Rockabillys are named for a unique music style associated with their hometown, located halfway between Memphis and Nashville. This episode features president and CEO Dennis Bastien, designer Ryan Foose, wildlife consultant Ranger Amy Burnett, and a Studio Simon Stumper from Dan Simon.
Jackson Rockabillys Website / Twitter @RockabillysJTN
Fooser Sports Design Website / Twitter @foosersports
Ranger Amy Burnett Twitter @RangerAmy
Dan Simon, Studio Simon Website / Instagram @studio_simon
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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May 9, 2023
Great Falls Voyagers
The Pioneer League's Great Falls Voyagers draw their name from a famous UFO sighting—the so-called Mariana Incident. GM Jim Burks tells the story of the nickname, Dan Simon shares how the close the team was to being called the Skeeters years before that Sugar Land team, and live from 1950, Great Falls Electrics manager Nick Mariana describes how he captured the UFOs on 16mm film.
Great Falls Voyagers Website / Twitter @gfvoyagers
Dan Simon, Studio Simon Website / Instagram @studio_simon
Great Falls History Museum Mariana UFO Incident article
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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May 2, 2023
Macon Bacon
The town of Macon, Georgia, does not have a particular connection to pork products, so the collegiate summer level Macon Bacon's brand is based entirely on a rhyme. This episode features Bacon president Brandon Raphael and designer Tony Canepa, as well as a hockey-themed Studio Simon Stumper from Dan Simon.
Macon Bacon Website / Twitter @GoMaconBacon
Tony Canepa Website / Instagram @thetonycanepa
Dan Simon, Studio Simon Website / Instagram @studio_simon
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Apr 25, 2023
Fond du Lac Dock Spiders
The Fond du Lac Dock Spiders are a collegiate summer level team named for venomous spiders that catch live fish and eat them as they die. So that's fun! Guests include GM Jim Misudek, Brandiose's Jason Klein, and Wildlife Consultant Ranger Amy Burnett. Plus, Dan Simon is back with another Studio Simon Stumper!
Fond du Lac Dock Spiders Website / Twitter @DockSpiders
Brandiose Website / Twitter @Brandiose
Ranger Amy Burnett Twitter @RangerAmy
Dan Simon, Studio Simon Website / Instagram @studio_simon
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Apr 18, 2023
Lake County Captains
The Lake County Captains play on the shores of Lake Erie, just east of their parent club in Cleveland. New team owner Alan Miller (of Portland Pickles fame), designer Dan Simon of Studio Simon, and one-time Captains general manager Brad Seymour join the podcast to talk about what the team name means to the local community.
Dan comes back at the end of the episode for a lighthouse-themed Studio Simon Stumper.
Lake County Captains Website / Twitter @LCCaptains
Dan Simon, Studio Simon Website / Instagram @studio_simon
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Apr 11, 2023
Vancouver Canadians
The High-A Vancouver Canadians are the only affiliated Minor League Baseball team in Canada. While most Minor League teams adopt hyper-local brands, the Canadians fully embraced a national identity. Guests include general manager Allan Bailey, designer Jason Klein of Brandiose, and sports branding expert (and Canadian) Chris Creamer of SportsLogos.net. And of course Dan Simon is back with a Studio Simon Stumper trivia question!
Vancouver Canadians Website / Twitter @vancanadians
Brandiose Website / Twitter @Brandiose
Dan Simon, Studio Simon Website / Instagram @studio_simon
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Apr 4, 2023
Tacoma Rainiers
The Triple-A Tacoma Rainiers draw their identity from the predominant geological feature in the Pacific Northwest, Mount Rainier—and indirectly from the branding for a mediocre beer. This episode features team president Aaron Artman, Mount Rainier National Park Ranger Darby Robinson, and lifelong Mariners fan Chris Trebon. And of course, Dan Simon is back with a Studio Simon Stumper.
Tacoma Rainiers Website / Twitter @RainiersLand
Mount Rainier National Park Website
Dan Simon, Studio Simon Website / Instagram @studio_simon
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Mar 28, 2023
Mudville Nine
For two seasons in 2000 and 2001, the Low-A Stockton Ports rebranded as the Mudville Nine, staking their town's claim to being the "Mudville" featured in the 1888 poem "Casey at the Bat." This episode features San Diego Padres Vice President Tom Seidler, who was instrumental in the team, and designer Dan Simon, who created the logo (and who is back with another Studio Simon Stumper).
Also, stay tuned for a special reading Casey at the Bat by Anna Ditommaso, Ed Rivera, Pat Larson, Amy Burnett, Eric Proffitt, and Johnny Bowlin.
Dan Simon, Studio Simon Website / Instagram @studio_simon
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Mar 21, 2023
Kansas City Monarchs, with Bob Kendrick, Negro Leagues Baseball Museum President
The Kansas City Monarchs were the premier franchise of Negro Leagues baseball from the 1920s through the 1960s. Through a partnership with the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, a team in the American Association of Independent Professional Baseball has reprised the logo and nickname of that historic franchise. NLBM President Bob Kendrick joins the podcast to talk about the unique partnership.
Plus Dan Simon returns with another Studio Simon Stumper!
Negro Leagues Baseball Museum Website / Twitter @NLBMuseumKC
NLBM President Bob Kendrick Twitter @nlbmprez
Dan Simon, Studio Simon Website / Instagram @studio_simon
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Mar 14, 2023
Inland Empire 66ers
The Inland Empire 66ers in San Bernardino, California, are one of 18 professional or collegiate summer level baseball teams that play on Route 66, but they're the only one whose brand has anything to do with the iconic highway. This episode features GM Joe Hudson, Brandiose's Jason Klein, Baseballpalooza founder Jeremy Soule, a cameo from Baseball Mapper's Patrick Noote, and Dan Simon of Studio Simon with another Studio Simon Stumper.
Inland Empire 66ers Website / Twitter
Brandiose Website / Twitter
Jeremy Soule Twitter
Patrick Noote BaseballMapper.com | Twitter
Dan Simon, Studio Simon Website / Instagram @studio_simon
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Mar 7, 2023
World Baseball Classic
The 2023 World Baseball Classic starts this week! This global tournament of America's pastime debuted in 2006 with a brand created by designer Todd Radom, who joins the podcast to talk about how that brand. Ed Rivera of The Dad Hat Chronicles also stops by to discuss his favorite WBC team logos, including his native Puerto Rico, and Dan Simon is here with another Studio Simon Stumper.
Todd Radom Website / Twitter @ToddRadom
Dad Hat Chronicles Twitter @thedadhat216
Dan Simon, Studio Simon Website / Instagram @studio_simon
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Feb 28, 2023
Louisville Bats
The Triple-A Louisville Bats play just a mile down Main Street from the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory—but the team's brand is based on the flying mammal rather than the famous wooden instrument of the game. This episode features longtime Bats general manager Greg Galiette and Nick Fuchs of the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory, as well as Baseball By Design Wildlife Consultant Ranger Burnett and another round of Studio Simon Stumpers with designer Dan Simon.
Louisville Bats website / Twitter @LouisvilleBats
Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory website / Twitter @sluggernation
Wildlife Consultant Ranger Amy Burnett Twitter @RangerAmy
Dan Simon, Studio Simon website / Instagram @studio_simon
Baseball By Design Twitter @Count2Baseball / Instagram @baseballbydesign / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter @Curved Brim
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Feb 21, 2023
Copa de la Diversión
The Copa de la Diversión program features Spanish-language brands for Minor League Baseball teams intended to expand MiLB's outreach to Latinx. The program has been wildly popular, and guest Ryan Foose of Fooser Sports Design has worked with teams to create more than 30 of those brands.
Also joining the podcast are Ed Rivera of the Dad Hat Chronicles to talk about his Puerto Rican heritage and logo fandom, and Dan Simon with another Studio Simon Stumper.
Fooser Sports Design Website / Twitter @foosersports
Dad Hat Chronicles Twitter @thedadhat216
Dan Simon, Studio Simon website / Instagram @studio_simon
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Feb 14, 2023
Charlotte Knights
The Charlotte Knights are a high-level Minor League team in a Major League city, and their brand and ballpark reflect that. Guests include general manager Rob Egan and designer David C. Ruckman, plus Dan Simon returns with another Studio Simon Stumpers trivia question.
Charlotte Knights website / Twitter @KnightsBaseball
David C. Ruckman Creative website / Twitter @RuckmanCreative
Dan Simon, Studio Simon website / Instagram @studio_simon
Baseball By Design Twitter @Count2Baseball / Instagram @baseballbydesign / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter @CurvedBrim
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Feb 7, 2023
Chicago Dogs
The Chicago Dogs are the third team in the Second City—an independent minor league team that plays in a Major League market. In this episode, the team's Director of Sales Evan Gersonde talks all things Chicago Dogs, designers Dan Price and Kevin Gilsdorf delve into the primary Chicago Dogs brand and the alternate Chicago Wieners brand respectively, Dogs Super Fan Mike Trippi talks about the fan experience, and Dan Simon returns with another round of Studio Simon's Stumpers trivia.
Chicago Dogs Website / Twitter @TheChicagoDogs
Dan Price, Adrenalin Sports Marketing Website / Twitter @figadvertising
Kevin Gilsdorf, Kindle Point Website / Instagram @kevin.gilsdorf
Mike Trippi Twitter @chidogfool
Dan Simon, Studio Simon website / Instagram @studio_simon
Baseball By Design Twitter @Count2Baseball / Instagram @baseballbydesign / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter @CurvedBrim
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Jan 31, 2023
Spearfish Sasquatch
The collegiate summer level Spearfish Sasquatch base their identity on perhaps most well-known characters from the world of cryptozoology. The team's owner and general manager Eric Schmidt talks about the brand, and Jeremiah Byron of the Big Foot Society podcast joins to discuss cryptids in general and Big Foot in particular. And new to Baseball By Design, we debut "Studio Simon Stumpers," a segment in which designer Dan Simon asks a trivia question pertinent to the topic of the week.
Spearfish Sasquatch website / Twitter @sprfshsasquatch
Big Foot Society Podcast website / Twitter @bigfoot_society
Dan Simon, Studio Simon website / Instagram @studio_simon
Baseball By Design Twitter @Count2Baseball / Instagram @baseballbydesign / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter @CurvedBrim
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Jan 24, 2023
Montgomery Biscuits
Since 2004, the Montgomery Biscuits have spread buttery goodness throughout the Southern League. This episode features general manager Mike Murphy, who talks about the Biscuits brand and some of their innovative alternates, as well as pastry chef Elizabeth Meyers of I d'Eclair Pastry live from her commercial kitchen.
Montgomery Biscuits Website / Twitter @BiscuitBaseball
I d'Eclair Pastry Website
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Jan 17, 2023
Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp
The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp have one of the signature wacky logos in the era of wacky logos. In this episode, GM Harold Craw talks about the initial fan reaction to the brand, Jason Klein of Brandiose talks about the creation of the logo, and Kathleen Clark of ReefTeach talks about what makes a shrimp a badass baseball mascot. Also, keep an ear out for mention of humuhumunukunuku a pu'a'a.
Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp Website / Twitter @jaxshrimp
Brandiose Website / Twitter
Kohala Center: Kahalu'u Bay Website / Instagram / Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Jan 10, 2023
Todd Radom on Interlocking Letter Logos
Todd Radom is a man of his word! Back in 2021 on episode 2 of Baseball By Design, noted designer Todd Radom promised to come back on the podcast for episode 58 and nerd out about typography. That promise manifests this week in a conversation about interlocking letters—the sports logo take on the typographic convention of ligatures.
Todd Radom Website / Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Jan 3, 2023
Dan Simon Podcast Takeover, Part 2
The great designer Dan Simon has taken over the podcast! It's part two of Dan's interview with deposed Baseball By Design host Paul Caputo, and this week Dan adds surprise guest Wildlife Consultant Ranger Amy Burnett to the mix!
Dan Simon, Studio Simon Website / Instagram
Wildlife Consultant Ranger Amy Burnett Twitter @RangerAmy
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Dec 27, 2022
Podcast Takeover! Dan Simon is the Host Now
Noted designer Dan Simon can add podcast host to his impressive resume now. He takes over Baseball By Design and interviews deposed host Paul Caputo, covering a range of topics.
Dan Simon, Studio Simon Website / Instagram
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Dec 20, 2022
Salt Lake Bees
The Triple-A Salt Lake Bees have an adorable logo and a classic, simple nickname that pay homage to their Utah's nickname the beehive state, which is a reflection of the predominant faith in the area. This episode features voice of the Bees for all 28 years of the team's existence, Steve Klauke, Baseball By Design Wildlife Consultant Ranger Amy Burnett, and minor league fan and member of the Church of Latter Day Saints Zach Beeson.
Salt Lake Bees website / Twitter @SaltLakeBees
Steve Klauke Twitter @slbeesradio
Wildlife Consultant Ranger Amy Burnett Twitter @RangerAmy
Zach Beeson Twitter @zachbeeson22
Baseball By Design Twitter @Count2Baseball / Instagram @baseballbydesign / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter @Curved Brim
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Dec 13, 2022
FredNats
The Fredericksburg Nationals—FredNats to friends—highlight the history of George Washington and his mother Mary with their brand. Team owner Seth Silber, designer Dan Simon, and historian Phillip Greenwalt talk about the team and the history it celebrates.
Fredericksburg Nationals Website / Twitter
Dan Simon, Studio Simon website / Instagram
Phillip Greenwalt Twitter @ParkRanger86
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Dec 6, 2022
Binghamton Rumble Ponies
The Binghamton Rumble Ponies are one of the signature new brands of the wacky era of minor league baseball logos. They play in the carousel capital of the world, the source of their equine name. This episode features John Hughes, who was integral in the naming of the team, Jason Klein of Brandiose, and Visit Binghamton's Judi Hess.
Binghamton Rumble Ponies Website / Twitter
Brandiose Website / Twitter
Visit Binghamton Website
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Nov 29, 2022
Greensboro Grasshoppers
The Greensboro Grasshoppers logo is an insect and their nickname derives from a weapon used in the Revolutionary War. This episode features longtime team president and general manager Donald Moore, historian Phillip Greenwalt, and Baseball By Design Wildlife Consultant Ranger Amy Burnett
Greensboro Grasshoppers Website / Twitter @GSOHoppers
Phillip Greenwalt Twitter @ParkRanger86
Wildlife Consultant Ranger Amy Burnett Twitter @RangerAmy
Baseball By Design Twitter @Count2Baseball / Instagram @baseballbydesign / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter @Curved Brim
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Nov 22, 2022
Erie SeaWolves
The Double-A Erie SeaWolves pay tribute to the extensive maritime history in Erie, Pennsylvania, on the shores of Lake Erie. This episode features general manager Greg Coleman, the great designer Dan Simon of Studio Simon, and Chuck Johnson of the Erie Maritime Museum.
Erie SeaWolves website / Twitter / Greg Coleman Twitter
Dan Simon, Studio Simon website / Instagram
Erie Maritime Museum website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube / Chuck Johnson Facebook
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Nov 15, 2022
50 Episodes! Chris Creamer of SportsLogos.net
Who loves round numbers more than baseball fans? Nobody! Baseball By Design commemorates episode number 50 with a visit from the show's first-ever guest, Chris Creamer, founder of the website SportsLogos.net. Chris discusses the home runs as well as the swings and misses of the baseball branding world. There's also discussion of cauliflower-based poutine that you can get at Toronto Blue Jays games.
Follow Chris on Twitter at @sportslogosnet and Instagram at @sportslogosnet.
Baseball By Design: Twitter | Instagram | Website
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Nov 8, 2022
Grand Junction Jackalopes
It's baseball branding breaking news! At long last, the Grand Junction Rockies have ditched their former parent club's name, and adopted a new, unique one—the team is now the Grand Junction Jackalopes. On this episode, Nathan Martinez, graphic design manager for the Future Legends Complex, which owns the team, talks about his process in creating the logo. And Baseball By Design Wildlife Consultant and Resident Cryptozoologist Ranger Amy Burnett returns the discuss the origins of the mashed up mammal.
Grand Junction Jackalopes Website / Twitter @GJJackalopes
Nathan Martinez Twitter @n8martinez89
Wildlife Consultant Ranger Amy Burnett Twitter @RangerAmy
Baseball By Design Twitter @Count2Baseball / Instagram @baseballbydesign / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter @Curved Brim
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Nov 1, 2022
Fort Wayne TinCaps
The High-A Fort Wayne TinCaps are named for John Chapman, who you might know as Johnny Appleseed. Team president Michael Limmer tells the story of the nickname, Sky Design's Tiffany Chen talks about the creation of the logo, Logan Wiening of the Old Fort Baseball Company talks about his childhood affinity for the Fort Wayne Wizards, and historian Bob Dispenza of Allen County Parks fills in the details of John Chapman's story.
Fort Wayne TinCaps Website / Twitter
Sky Design Graphics Website / Instagram
Old Fort Baseball Co. Website / Twitter
Allen County Parks Website
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Oct 25, 2022
Columbia Fireflies
The Columbia Fireflies, Single-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals, are named for a natural phenomenon that takes place in Congaree National Park in South Carolina. Team broadcaster John Kocsis, Jr., talks about the origin of the nickname, Tiffany Chen and Rick Daniel of the design firm Sky Design join the podcast for the first time, and Baseball By Design Wildlife Correspondent Ranger Amy Burnett returns to talk about synchronous fireflies.
Columbia Fireflies Website / Twitter
Sky Design Graphics Website / Instagram
Wildlife Consultant Ranger Amy Burnett Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Oct 18, 2022
Skye Dillon, Skye Design Studios: Ferry Hawks, Zoo Keepers, Chili Peppers, Banana Slugs, and More
Skye Dillon of Skye Design Studios has been working in the field of sports branding for more than two decades. We talk about his process and work on brands like the Staten Island Ferry Hawks, Ashboro ZooKeepers, Tri-Cities Chili Peppers, New Britain Bees, and (outside the world of minor league baseball) the UC Santa Cruz Banana Slugs.
Skye Design Studios Website / Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Oct 11, 2022
Brooklyn Cyclones
The High A Brooklyn Cyclones play against the iconic backdrop of Coney Island. Visitors to the area can catch a game after a visit to America's most famous boardwalk, where they can grab a hot dog and ride the tooth-rattling roller coaster, which has been around for almost a century.
On the episode, noted designer Todd Radom talks about one of his favorite creations, Cyclones broadcaster Keith Raad stops by to discuss the team's role in contemporary Brooklyn, and Coaster101 contributor Andrew Stilwell expounds on the parallels between roller coaster enthusiasts and minor league baseball fans.
Todd Radom Website / Twitter
Brooklyn Cyclones Website / Twitter / Keith Raad Twitter
Coaster 101 Website / Twitter / Andrew Stilwell Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Oct 4, 2022
Everett AquaSox
The High-A Everett AquaSox have had a brand based on a groovy frog since 1995, but the team's branding goes a lot deeper than that. Playing less than 30 miles from their parent club in Seattle, the AquaSox's identity delves deep into winks and nods to the Mariners. The team's owner at the time of the AquaSox debut, Bob Bavasi, talks about the creation of the brand; General Manager Danny Tetzlaff talks about the team's ties to the Mariners; and Baseball By Design Wildlife Consultant Ranger Amy Burnett is live at Funko Field to talk about frogs.
Everett AquaSox Website / Twitter / Danny Tetzlaff Twitter
Bob Bavasi Bavasi Sports website
Wildlife Consultant Ranger Amy Burnett Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Sep 27, 2022
Hillsboro Hops
The High-A Hillsboro Hops are named for an important crop in Oregon, but more than that, they're a celebration of the magical association of beer and baseball. The team's president, general manager, and 2021 MiLB executive of the year K.L. Wombacher talks about the origins of the nickname, designer Dan Simon talks about the creation of the logo—and his adventures joining a game during Baseballpalooza—and Ira Bletz, head of the Historic Eating and Drinking Society (HEADS), talks about how beer is responsible for the existence of all of civilization.
Hillsboro Hops website / Twitter
Dan Simon, Studio Simon website / Instagram
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Sep 20, 2022
Midland RockHounds
The Midland RockHounds are named for the geologists who work in Texas's oil industry but since 1999 their logo has been a literal hound. The team's Assistant GM Jeff VonHolle talks about the origins of the nickname, Torch Creative's Brad Bishop and Mike Thurman talk about a 2021 rebrand, and in a Baseball By Design exclusive (!) McGruff the Crime Dog joins to clear the air about his suspicious resemblance to Rocky the RockHound.
Midland RockHounds Website / Twitter / Jeff VonHolle Twitter
Torch Creative Website / Twitter / Instagram
MacGruff the Crime Dog National Crime Prevention Council / McGruff on Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Sep 14, 2022
Groundbreakers: UniWatch’s Paul Lukas, Helmet Sundae Guru Eric Lichtenberg
Paul Lukas has been covering sports branding for nearly a quarter century through his popular online platform, UniWatch. Paul joins the show to talk about trends in the field, and how they influence (or are influenced by) minor league baseball.
And for dessert, the godfather of helmet sundae collecting, Eric Lichtenberg, talks about that hobby, and how it has inspired by his own work in graphic design.
Paul Lukas, UniWatch Website / Twitter
Eric Lichtenberg Website / Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Sep 7, 2022
Saint Paul Saints
The Saint Paul Saints made a name for themselves as an independent franchise with wacky promotions, pig-themed branding, and a heavy-hitting ownership group that includes Bill Murray and Mike Veeck. Now as a Triple-A affiliate of the Minnesota Twins, the team is carrying on its tradition of fun with wacky branding but a classic brand. The team's executive vice president Derek Sharrer discusses the team, its promos, and the relationship between Saint Paul and pigs.
Plus, stay tuned for surprise guest, accomplished philosophy and religion academic Dr. John D. Caputo (Paul's dad!), who discusses why a team of Saints would be unbeatable.
Saint Paul Saints Website / Twitter
Derek Sharrer Twitter
John D. Caputo Facebook
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Aug 31, 2022
Bowie Baysox
The Bowie Baysox, Double-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, pay tribute to the nearby Chesapeake Bay with their time-honored brand. GM Brian Shallcross talks about the history of the brand, Curved Brim Media Month rounds out with Patrick Noote of the invaluable resource Baseball Mapper dot com, and Baseball By Design's newest contributor, Wildlife Consultant Ranger Amy, stops by to talk about the Baysox's alternate Copa brand, the Cangrejos Fantasmas de Chesapeake, or Ghost Crabs.
Bowie Baysox Website / Twitter / Brian Shallcross Twitter
Baseball Mapper Website / Twitter
Wildlife Consultant Ranger Amy Burnett Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Aug 24, 2022
Gwinnett Stripers
The Gwinnett Stripers pulled a bait and switch when they announced a name that was not one of the five finalists in their name-the-team contest. Find out how that went down from the team's GM at the time, North Johnson, and Brandiose's Jason Klein.
And on week four of Curved Brim Media month on Baseball By Design, Pat Larson of the MiLB Hat History Series talks about singing the National Anthem at a Stripers game (and performs a rendition for us!), and walks us through his 15 (!) Stripers caps.
Gwinnett Striper Website / Twitter
Brandiose Website / Twitter
Pat Larson, MiLB Hat History Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Aug 17, 2022
Corpus Christi Hooks
The Corpus Christi Hooks are named for the fishing industry in the Gulf of Mexico and for the curve ball of one of Texas's most famous native sons (OR ARE THEY?!). This week, CEO of Ryan Sanders Sports & Entertainment (and son of Nolan Ryan) Reid Ryan and designer Dan Simon talk about the napkin sketch that led to the Hooks' logo.
And on week three of Curved Brim Media month on Baseball By Design, James Christopher of the Let's Get Two show stops by to talk about the Hooks' Blue Ghosts alternate identity.
Reid Ryan Twitter
Dan Simon, Studio Simon website / Instagram
James Christopher, Let's Get Two YouTube / Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Aug 10, 2022
Durham Bulls
The Durham Bulls went from being the very image of the gritty, no-frills minor league experience, as seen in the classic movie Bull Durham, to being one of the iconic brands with one of the most recognized logos in the minors—thanks in no small part to that movie. The team's production designer Paxton Rembis discusses the team's history and the work he's doing with the brand today.
And on week two of Curved Brim Media month on Baseball By Design, Anna DiTommaso, host of the Baseball Bucket List podcast and website, stops by to talk about the Bulls and their parent club, her favorite MLB team, the Rays.
Finally, Paul's brother Dave stops by in-person from the Jersey Shore to talk about his experience as a Duke undergrad attending ballgames at the old Durham Athletic Park in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Durham Bulls Website / Twitter
Paxton Rembis Twitter
Anna DiTommaso, Baseball Bucket List Website / Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media…
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Aug 3, 2022
Akron RubberDucks
The Akron RubberDucks are named for the long history of the tire industry in Akron, not to mention the city's longstanding association with the team's eponymous bath toy. Akron GM Jim Pfander and Brandiose's Jason Klein stop by to talk about the team. Plus, it's Curved Brim Media month in August—each week Baseball By Design will highlight a content creator from the network, starting this week with CBM co-founder Ed Rivera of the Dad Hat Chronicles.
Akron RubberDucks Website / Twitter
Brandiose Website / Twitter
Dad Hat Chronicles Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Jul 27, 2022
Charleston Dirty Birds
The Charleston Dirty Birds pay homage to the tiniest heroes of local industry with their brand—the literal canaries in the coal mine. The Godfather of Minor League Baseball Branding, Chuck Domino, stops by to talk about his philosophy of naming teams; designer Carolina Buchas talks about the development of the logo; and Jordan Bennett, curator of the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum, educates us on the history of the use of canaries in the mining industry.
Charleston Dirty Birds website / Twitter
Caroline Buchas website
National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum website / Facebook
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Jul 19, 2022
Kannapolis Cannon Ballers
The Single-A Kannapolis Cannon Ballers have one of the most popular brands in the minors, but they had a unique challenge in replacing a brand based on beloved native son Dale Earnhardt. Alicia Amling of Temerity Baseball, designer Dan Simon of Studio Simon, and six-time Guinness Record holder and human cannon baller himself David "The Bullet" Smith tell the story of this unique brand on this episode.
Kannapolis Cannon Ballers website / Twitter / Alicia Amling Instagram
Dan Simon, Studio Simon website / Instagram
David "The Bullet" Smith website / Facebook
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Jul 12, 2022
Bowling Green Hot Rods
The High-A Bowling Green Hot Rods are more than just a cool minor league team with a great logo—they're an integral part of their community. On this episode of Baseball By Design, the team's award-winning general manager Eric Leach stops by to talk about not just the team's brand, but the role they play in being good neighbors; home-grown designer Brandon Lamarche of 3-2 Designs talks about his work on all of the team's brands; and Mariah Hughes of the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green joins to discuss car culture, sink holes, and the museum experience.
Bowling Green Hot Rods Website / Twitter
Eric Leach Twitter
Brandon Lamarche, 3-2 Designs Website / Instagram
National Corvette Museum Website
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Jul 5, 2022
Baseball Is Great: Mariners Pizza, MiLB Branding
In Baseball By Design's first ever Tampa Bay Rays-style opener, Sofie Dill joins to tell the story of how she ordered a pizza for Mariners player Jesse Winker. Then, we're joined by Tyler Maun and Josh Jackson, who cover Minor League Baseball in lots of ways, including writing for MiLB's website and on the Show Before the Show podcast. Most importantly for the purposes of this podcast, Tyler Maun writes in-depth stories about teams' logos, nicknames, and uniforms, and Josh Jackson hosts a podcast segment called "Ghosts of the Minors," which delves into some of the quirkiest team names in early days of the sport.
Sofie Dill Twitter
Tyler Maun MiLB.com author page / Twitter
Josh Jackson MiLB.com author page / Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Jun 28, 2022
Missoula PaddleHeads
For two decades, the Pioneer League team in Missoula, Montana, was called the Osprey before they rebranded as the PaddleHeads—a nickname that describes both moose and people who love being on the river. The team survived a season cancelled by COVID and losing their Major League affiliation when the minors were reorganized in 2020, and now have a popular brand new in an idyllic setting. On this episode, team president Matt Ellis, Brandiose partner Jason Klein, and Pioneer League Vice President Henry Hunter discuss the unique identity.
Missoula PaddleHeads Website / Twitter
Brandiose Website / Twitter
Pioneer League Website / Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Jun 21, 2022
Burlington Sock Puppets
The Burlington Sock Puppets are the only team in the new-look Appalachian League whose logo was not created by Major League Baseball. In the first-ever group interview on Baseball By Design, designer Dan Simon of Studio Simon is joined by Sock Puppets Owner/Team President Ryan Keur, General Manager Anderson Rathbun, and Assistant General Manager Thomas Vickers to discuss the disagreements and discussions that led to the groundbreaking identity.
Burlington Sock Puppets website | Twitter
Dan Simon, Studio Simon website | Instagram
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website | Twitter
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Jun 14, 2022
Wichita Wind Surge
Designer extraordinaire Todd Radom is back on Baseball By Design, this time to discuss his work on the Wichita Wind Surge's Pegasus-based brand and what the nickname Wind Surge means to the up-and-coming city of Wichita, Kansas—not to mention the alternate Turbo Tubs brand that he created. The team's director of fan experience Bob Moullette also joins, offering his perspective on the transition from the notably wacky New Orleans Baby Cakes brand to the more austere Wind Surge identity.
Todd Radom Website / Twitter
Wichita Wind Surge Website / Twitter / Bob Moullette Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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Jun 7, 2022
WooSox
The Triple-A Worcester Red Sox—or WooSox to friends—have a brand built around the iconic yellow smiley face created by commercial artist and Worcester native Harvey Ball. This episode features the team's director of productions Tim Quitadamo, Brandiose designer Jason Klein, baseball media member and Red Sox fan Gabrielle Starr, and Harvey Ball's son Charles.
WooSox Website / Twitter / Tim Quitadamo on Twitter
Brandiose website | Twitter
Gabrielle Starr Twitter / Girl at the Game
Baseball By Design Twitter / Instagram / Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website / Twitter
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May 31, 2022
Rob Neyer, West Coast League
It's opening day for the collegiate summer level West Coast League, owner of a brand new logo that highlights the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, where the league operates. The 16-team league features such wacky teams as the Portland Pickles, Walla Walla Sweets, and Nanaimo Night Owls/Bars (who play by different names according to the time of day), but the new logo is understated and subtle.
The league's commissioner Rob Neyer, TV commentator and author or co-author of eight books on baseball, joins the podcast to talk about the league, the logo, some of the teams, and his latest book, The Umpire Is OUT, about openly gay umpire MLB umpire Dale Scott.
Rob Neyer website | Twitter
West Coast League website | Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website | Twitter
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May 24, 2022
Danville Otterbots
The collegiate summer level Danville Otterbots made a splash with their aquatic robot mammal logo. Otterbots general manager Austin Scher stops by to discuss the many layers of significance to the team's brand—along with his own extensive knowledge of minor league baseball branding. Plus, Otterbots Ambassadors Tim Stoops of Montana and Johnny Bowlin of Mississippi discuss the team's ground-breaking ambassador program.
Danville Otterbots website | Twitter
Ambassadors on Twitter Tim Stoops: @timmer82 | Johnny Bowlin: @johnnymilbfan
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website | Twitter
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May 17, 2022
Rocket City Trash Pandas
The Rocket City Trash Pandas made a splash with their new brand right before the 2020 season, then had to keep the momentum going in spite of a year lost to COVID. The team still set merchandise sales records with their patriotic astronaut raccoon logo and are now one of the best known in the minors. Trash Pandas Vice President Lindsey Knupp and Brandiose's Jason Klein join the podcast to talk about the ground-breaking brand.
And stay tuned for real live NASA engineer and actual rocket scientist Jay Hollenbeck of the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, who is a former college baseball player and an avid fan of minor league baseball. Jay weighs in on the Trash Pandas brand.
Rocket City Trash Pandas website | Twitter
Brandiose website | Twitter
Marshall Space Flight Center website / Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website | Twitter
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May 10, 2022
Idaho Falls Chukars
The Idaho Falls Chukars base their identity on a bird that can best be described as a small, husky turkey. This week, Chukars Assistant GM Chris Hall, Pioneer League Vice President Henry Hunter, and Arkansas State Parks Director Shea Lewis (formerly of Idaho State Parks) stop by Baseball By Design to talk about what makes this bird the perfect foundation for a baseball team in southeast Idaho—plus we discuss exciting innovations in the Pioneer League at large.
Idaho Falls Chukars Website | Twitter
Pioneer League Website | Twitter
Arkansas State Parks Website
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website | Twitter
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May 3, 2022
Carolina Disco Turkeys
The collegiate summer level Carolina Disco Turkeys have only played one full season, but they've taken the world of baseball branding by storm. Team president Greg Sullivan, artist Brittain Peck, and Matt Strangewayes of the Phoenix Zoo talk about what makes disco turkeys—or peacocks—an appropriate mascot for a team in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
Carolina Disco Turkeys website | Twitter | Instagram
Brittain Peck website | Twitter | Instagram
Phoenix Zoo website | Twitter | Instagram
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website | Twitter
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Apr 26, 2022
Joliet Slammers
The iconic prison in Joliet, Illinois, opened in 1858 and has been highlighted in countless pieces of pop culture, from The Blues Brothers to Prison Break to songs by Bob Dylan and Memphis Minnie—and since 2011, the nickname of the Joliet Slammers baseball team, which plays in the independent Frontier League. In this episode of Baseball By Design, guests include Bill Waliewski, who was the Slammers' president when the team was founded; Dan Simon of Studio Simon, who created the identity; and Steven Wright, Curator of the Joliet Area Historical Museum and Old Joliet Prison Historic Site.
Joliet Slammers Website | Twitter
Bill Waliewski Twitter
Dan Simon, Studio Simon website | Instagram
Joliet Area Historical Museum Website
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website | Twitter
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Apr 19, 2022
Hartford Yard Goats
The Hartford Yard Goats are one of the most popular brands in Minor League Baseball. They're named for locomotive switchers in rail yards—appropriate to Hartford because the rail industry features prominently in the city's history. But the team's identity extends well beyond trains. General Manager Tim Restall, Brandiose designer Jason Klein, and sports journalist Suzie Hunter join Baseball By Design this week to talk about this little engine that could.
Hartford Yard Goats website | Twitter | Tim Restall Twitter
Jason Klein, Brandiose website | Twitter
Suzie Hunter website | Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
Curved Brim Media Network Website | Twitter
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Apr 12, 2022
Bakersfield Blaze
The erstwhile Bakersfield Blaze were not the most glamorous of franchises, but before they were contracted by Minor League Baseball, their backwards-facing ballpark was home to stories that feel like they're right out of a Hollywood movie—games that had to be paused as the sun set over the center field wall, the time they intentionally set the field on fire, a game played with a 12-man roster and a 44-year-old coach pitching. Longtime Blaze employees Philip Guiry and Tim Wheeler share these stories in inimitable fashion, and discuss the somewhat ignominious branding history of the long gone franchise.
Philip Guiry: Twitter
The defunct Bakersfield Blaze: Tweeting from Baseball Hell, to which they are banished
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
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Apr 5, 2022
Baseball Road Trips
It's opening day for Triple-A baseball and other affiliated and independent leagues are getting underway soon! We can start taking those baseball road trips we've been planning all offseason! Guests this week include Benjamin Hill of MiLB.com, who has been to 182 minor league ballparks; Jeremy Soule, who in 2014 co-founded the annual Baseballpalooza road trip that Paul talks about all the time; and Patrick Noote of the website BaseballMapper.com, an invaluable tool for planning road trips.
Ben Hill Ben's Biz on MiLB | Twitter
Jeremy Soule Twitter
Patrick Noote BaseballMapper.com | Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
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Mar 29, 2022
Savannah Bananas
The Savannah Bananas have become a phenomenon in the world of baseball branding. Their popular logo represents more than just a baseball team, but rather an entirely new version of the sport. As the Banana Ball World Tour takes the country by storm, this episode visits with team owner Jesse Cole, designer Dan Simon of Studio Simon, and the Young Professor, who is providing entertainment to fans at sold-out stadiums where the Bananas are playing.
The Savannah Bananas website | Twitter | Instagram
Dan Simon, Studio Simon website | Instagram
The Young Professor Instagram | Twitter | Facebook
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
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Mar 22, 2022
Beloit Snappers
The Beloit Snappers are no more, but their legend lives on, as told by Chris Kretz, the designer who created the logo in 1995, and Bobby Coon, the team's media director for five years in the 2010s. Find out how Pete Rose, Shoeless Joe, and Ken Griffey Jr. factor into the turtle-based logo.
Plus, stay tuned for a surprise post-credit sequence with Howard Aprill, a Wisconsin-based naturalist who is not only an expert on turtles, but who has been to multiple Snappers games, including opening day in the new ballpark, and who had lunch with Charlie Sheen on the set of Major League.
Chris Kretz Twitter
Bobby Coon Pulling Tarp Podcast | Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
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Mar 15, 2022
Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, Kiona Sinks
The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City, Missouri, tells the incredibly important story of the baseball teams and players who endured unspeakable hardships to succeed, against all odds, in the face of a segregated America. Similarly, the museum itself has overcome obstacles—most notably a global pandemic that shut their doors for the better part of a year—to succeed when the odds were stacked against them.
The museum's digital marketing strategist Kiona Sinks kept the story of the Negro Leagues alive and in the forefront of the minds of baseball fans in spite of the shuttered gates—with assists from museum president Bob Kendrick, actor Taye Diggs, and Barack Obama, to name a few. Kiona shares the stories and strategies that have launched the museum to national prominence in recent years.
Negro Leagues Baseball Museum Website | Twitter
Kiona Sinks Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
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Mar 8, 2022
Dub Sea Fish Sticks
The collegiate summer level Dub Sea Fish Sticks were the darlings of the offseason with their hotly contested online vote to determine a new name. The team's general manager comes on the show to break down the Fish Sticks/Seal Slingers electoral map, to track live polls on whether fish sticks are junk food, and react in real time to rival minor league social media accounts still bitter about how the online vote turned out.
Jason Klein from Brandiose joins the podcast again to talk about the unique idea to have two fully fleshed out brands go head to head in an online vote, and the process of designing a logo that looked just the right amount of fish stick crunchy.
And Ed Rivera from the Dad Hat Chronicles stops by to discuss his process in developing a new dad hat for the Fish Sticks (even though he was team Seal Slingers).
Dub Sea Fish Sticks Website | Twitter | Instagram
Brandiose Website | Twitter | Instagram
Dad Hat Chronicles Podcast | Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter | In…
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Mar 1, 2022
Richmond Flying Squirrels
The Double-A Richmond Flying Squirrels were one of the original wacky minor league brands, but now in their 13th season, they're one of the game's classic brands. On this episode, Flying Squirrels CEO "Parney" Parnell talks about the origin of the nickname and logo, Creative Services & Production Director Nick Elder talks about his work creating the team's Copa brand, the Ardillas Voladoras, and Marketing & Social Media Manager Samantha McCloskey discusses the responsibility of reflecting the team's persona on social media.
Plus, be sure to stay through the end credits for that surprise scene! On this episode, Christen Miller of Virginia State Parks joins the podcast to talk about what makes actual flying squirrels so great.
Richmond Flying Squirrels website | Twitter | Instagram
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
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Feb 22, 2022
El Paso Chihuahuas
In many ways, the Triple-A El Paso Chihuahuas are the poster team for the era of wacky logos in minor league baseball. Lifelong El Paso resident and Chihuahuas Senior Director of Marketing & Communications Angela Olivas joins the podcast to talk about what the team's identity means to the community, and Brandiose's Jason Klein stops by again to share the thinking behind the development of the brand.
El Paso Chihuahuas Website | Twitter | Instagram
Brandiose Website | Twitter | Instagram
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
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Feb 15, 2022
Tri-City Dust Devils
The reason for the Tri-City Dust Devils' identity becomes apparent when you learn that they have had just one single rainout in more than two decades of playing baseball in Pasco, Washington. But their brand is about so much more than their logo—it's about their place in the community.
This week, Erik "The Peanut Guy" Mertens, who has been the face of the team for its entire existence, and who was recently commemorated by the team with a life-size bobblehead outside the stadium, joins Baseball By Design to talk Dusty, the Viñeros, and the sure to be future food-based brand, the Tri City Tres Leches!
Tri-City Dust Devils Website | Twitter
Erik the Peanut Guy Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
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Feb 8, 2022
Lehigh Valley IronPigs
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs are, by design, a Triple-A team with a Single-A approach, which has led to one of the most fun brands in the minors—and lots of bacon! The team's general manager Kurt Landes stops by to talk about the logo, as well as the team's Salute to Philly alternate brands, and we settle once and for all which team started the food-based logo trend.
Plus, for the first time, Jason Klein of Brandiose stops by to talk about the work his firm did in creating this suite of logos.
Lehigh Valley IronPigs Website | Twitter | Instagram
Brandiose Website | Twitter | Instagram
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
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Feb 1, 2022
Reno Aces
Reno Aces general manager Emily Jaenson talks about the unique challenges of branding the Triple-A team that plays in the Biggest Little City in the World. The Reno Aces, who have been an affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks since their inception have a fun but grownup identity that has undergone subtle shifts over the years—with more coming soon!
At the time of her hiring, Emily Jaenson was the only female general manager in Triple-A Minor League Baseball, and is now one of four. She hosts the Leadership is Female podcast, which highlights women in leadership positions in sports.
Also, Ed Rivera from the Dad Hat Chronicles stops by again to discuss the Aces' cap offerings!
Reno Aces Website | Twitter | Instagram
Emily Jaenson Instagram
Leadership is Female Podcast Podcast | Instagram
Dad Hat Chronicles Podcast Podcast | Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
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Jan 25, 2022
Dan Simon, Studio Simon
Dan Simon is one of the most prolific and influential graphic designers in sports, and especially in minor league baseball at all levels. In two and a half decades, he has created hundreds of brands, including Super Bowl logos, identities for major league teams in multiple sports, and nearly 100 minor league baseball team logos. On this episode, we discuss the impact Dan's work has had on minor league baseball, with some great stories about teams like the Savannah Bananas, Kannapolis Cannon Ballers, Memphis Redbirds, Great Falls Voyagers, and Idaho Falls Chukars.
Find Studio Simon online at studiosimon.net and on Instagram at @studio_simon.
And stay tuned for the surprise post-credit sequence with Zack Gold, the mind behind the hit @mlb_paint accounts on Twitter and Instagram!
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
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Jan 18, 2022
Portland Pickles
The collegiate summer-level Portland Pickles take minor league fun to the next level with a wacky logo and nickname and a hilarious social media presence. I talk with the team's very funny co-owner Alan Miller about how serious the team is about having fun.
Also, I speak with Ed Rivera of the Dad Hat Chronicles podcast to get his take on Pickles caps, and Emma Segerman, who has been ranking minor league baseball logos on TikTok and Twitter, stops by to weigh in on a few logos.
Portland Pickles Website | Twitter | Instagram
Dad Hat Chronicles Podcast | Twitter
Emma Segerman TikTok | Twitter
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
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Jan 11, 2022
Daytona Tortugas
The Daytona Tortugas, Low-A affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds, were forced into rebranding when they changed parent clubs before the 2015 season, and the result is one of the most popular brands in the minors. Paul speaks with the team's general manager Jim Jaworski and the logo's designer Dan Simon about the identity and the role the team plays in the community, plus there's a surprise post-credit appearance by Sarah Rhodes-Ondi of the Sea Turtle Conservancy.
Daytona Tortugas: Website | Twitter: @daytonatortugas
Dan Simon: Website | Instagram: @studio_simon
Sea Turtle Conservancy online: conserveturtles.org
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
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Jan 4, 2022
Portland Sea Dogs
The Double-A Portland Sea Dogs logo was created in 1994 by Guy Gilchrist, whose career includes creating characters for the Muppets, Fraggle Rock, The Pink Panther, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Looney Tunes, Tom & Jerry, and more. Paul talks with Guy and the team's award-winning broadcaster Emma Tiedemann about the brand, plus a surprise post-credit sequence from Ann-Marie Lisi of the Maritime Aquarium stirs up controversy: Is Slugger really a harbor seal?
Guy Gilchrist on Instagram: @guyfgilchrist
Emma Tiedemann on Instagram @emmatieds and Twitter @emmatieds
Portland Sea Dogs: Website | Twitter @portlandseadogs
Maritime Aquarium online: maritimeaquarium.org
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
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Dec 28, 2021
Toledo Mud Hens (featuring Jamie Farr!)
The iconic TV show M*A*S*H introduced millions of viewers to minor league baseball's Toledo Mud Hens through the quirky character Corporal Max Klinger, played by Toledo native and lifelong Mud Hens fan Jamie Farr. Mr. Farr, now 87 years old, joined me to talk about the team he grew up watching, the impact his fandom had on the TV show, and his current relationship with the team.
I also speak for the first time on the podcast (but certainly not the last!) with prolific graphic designer Dan Simon of Studio Simon, who in 2005 created the current branding for the team.
Find Jamie Farr on IMDB.
Find Studio Simon online at studiosimon.net and on Instagram at @studio_simon.
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
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Dec 21, 2021
Albuquerque Isotopes
The real-life Albuquerque Isotopes, currently Triple-A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, debuted in 2003, shortly after an episode of The Simpsons portrayed Homer thwarting plans that the Duff Beer Company had to move the fictional Springfield Isotopes to New Mexico. Paul is joined by longtime Isotopes General Manager John Straub, we hear Paul's 2018 appearance on the Isotopes pre-game show with Josh Suchon, and we learn what the heck an isotope is in a surprise post-credit sequence from Chris Smith of the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.
Albuquerque Isotopes Website | Twitter: @ABQTopes
John Traub on Twitter: @TopesGM
Josh Suchon on Twitter: @Josh_Suchon
NC Museum of Natural Sciences Website | Twitter: @naturalsciences
Chris Smith on Instagram: @envedchris
Baseball By Design Twitter | Instagram | Website
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Dec 14, 2021
Todd Radom
Todd Radom has created logos for Super Bowl XXXVIII, the 2009 NBA All-Star Game, the 2014, 2016, and 2018 MLB All-Star Games, and Major League and minor league baseball teams, including the Brooklyn Cyclones and Wichita Wind Surge. On this episode, Todd and Paul discuss Todd's ride on the rickety old Cyclone roller coaster on Coney Island, the 1979 Phillies all-maroon uniforms, some nitty gritty nerdy typography details, and more!
Follow Todd at www.toddradom.com, on Twitter at @toddradom, and on Instagram at @toddradom.
Baseball By Design: Twitter | Instagram | Website
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Dec 7, 2021
Chris Creamer, SportsLogos.net
Chris Creamer founded the website SportsLogos.net 25 years ago, and since then it's become an invaluable resource for fans of sports logos, uniforms, and branding news. Baseball By Design host Paul Caputo has been covering minor league baseball logos for Chris's site since 2014, and so it's only fitting that Chris is the guest on the debut episode of the podcast.
Follow Chris on Twitter at @sportslogosnet and Instagram at @sportslogosnet.
Baseball By Design: Twitter | Instagram | Website
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Nov 22, 2021
Baseball By Design Trailer
Baseball By Design will explore the stories behind the nicknames and logos of minor league baseball teams at all levels. Join SportsLogos.net minor league baseball Paul Caputo correspondent for conversations with front office personnel, designers, players, and fans!
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