The Huffington Post published this interview with Tim Kurkjian a couple days ago, which I found an interesting read. The interview was initiated as a result of the publication of his latest book, I’m Fascinated By Sacrifice Flies – Inside The Game We All Love. I’ve not read the book, nor do I have cable television to watch ESPN, so I’m 
afraid I can’t speak to Kurkjian himself nor my impressions of him. But I did enjoy reading this interview.
He discusses the skill level involved in baseball as compared to other sports and the declining popularity of Major League Baseball as compared to the NFL or NASCAR. I particularly love how he advocates against parents and coaches pushing their kids to specialize in a single sport, bemoaning the decline of three-sport letter winners in high schools. He points out that “when we have 14 year old kids having Tommy John surgery, then something is really wrong with this picture.” I often think the same kind of thing when the Little League World Series comes on, wondering about the futures these kids have given the stress they put themselves through so young.
Most of all, I just love the fact that Kurkjian’s love for baseball shows through so clearly in this interview. People who have a passion for this game — as many of you reading this have — absolutely fascinate me. And I enjoy reading and hearing about the reasons people love it so much.
Kurkjian is one my favorite baseball analysts. He is one that doesn’t take himself too seriously and it is apparent that he feels lucky to be able to do what he does. He is one of the great ones.
This is good to hear. I’ll have to make a point to check out more of his work. Thanks, Sean!
speaking of the one sport athletes, it becomes contentious when a player signs a big contract and the owners say no more other activities. soon, they may even ban casting a rod.
Welllll… those hooks might poke an eye out! *sigh* Sadly, I’m sure you’ll be proven right.