Michael Schatz

Michael Schatz

Born in Philadelphia, Michael is a screenwriter now residing in Los Angeles. But despite the move, he has stayed loyal to the Phillies - even after years of losing and playoff failures. But it all became worth it when he finally got to witness a World Series championship in 2008. To celebrate, he flew home to Philadelphia the next day for the victory parade - still the best sports experience he's had. His all time favorite player is Darren Daulton, who was the reason Michael wore #10 during his short stint as a baseball player. Connect with Michael on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-schatz-2b0a58b" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">LinkedIn</a>.

Todd Frazier celebrating his MLB All-Star achievement after Williamsport success.

From Williamsport to the Majors — 10 Kids Who Actually Made It

Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Michael SchatzFrom Williamsport dreams to Major League stardom, these 10 players achieved the rare feat of competing in both the Little League World Series and MLB. Their journeys showcase how youth baseball excellence can translate into professional success, inspiring the next generation of baseball stars. Jason Varitek: From Altamonte Springs to Red Sox Legend Jason Varitek’s baseball journey began in the 1984 LLWS with Altamonte Springs, Florida, where he …

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A screenshot showcasing Adam Wainwright's iconic curveball pitch.

These Curveballs Were Basically Illegal

Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Michael SchatzBaseball’s most devastating curveballs have left batters baffled and fans amazed for generations. From Sandy Koufax’s “Lord Charles” to Clayton Kershaw’s “Public Enemy No. 1,” these breaking balls have defined careers and changed the game. Here are the 11 most memorable curveballs in baseball history. 1. Sandy Koufax’s “Lord Charles” Koufax’s curveball dropped an astounding 12-15 inches, earning its royal nickname. His unusually long fingers created exceptional spin …

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A player admires a home run, illustrating a key unwritten rule in baseball.

10 Unwritten Rules That Can Still Get a Fastball Aimed at Your Ribs

Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Michael SchatzBaseball is a sport steeped in tradition and unwritten rules that govern player conduct and sportsmanship. From respecting a no-hitter to proper dugout etiquette, these sacred customs have shaped America’s pastime for generations. Here are the 10 most important unwritten rules every baseball fan should know. Never Bunt to Break Up a No-Hitter One of baseball’s most controversial unwritten rules forbids bunting to break up a no-hitter, especially …

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Jeff Bagwell showcasing his unconventional batting stance, emphasizing form flexibility.

Ugly Swings, Beautiful Results: Legends Who Ignored the Textbook

Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Michael SchatzThroughout baseball history, certain players have become legendary not just for their hitting prowess, but for their distinctively unique batting stances. From extreme crouches to dramatic bat waves, these unconventional approaches to hitting have become iconic parts of baseball lore. Here are 10 of the most memorable and unusual batting stances ever seen in Major League Baseball. Rod Carew’s “The Iceman” Stance Rod Carew’s distinctive crouch and wide-open …

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Ken Griffey Jr. joyfully celebrating his iconic victory at the 1998 Home Run Derby.

11 Home Run Derby Nights That Stopped the Country Cold

Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Michael SchatzFrom Josh Hamilton’s legendary display at Yankee Stadium to Sammy Sosa’s mammoth shots at Turner Field, here are the 11 most memorable Home Run Derby performances that left baseball fans in awe. 1. Josh Hamilton’s Legendary 2008 Performance In one of baseball’s most electrifying moments, Josh Hamilton put on an unforgettable show at the old Yankee Stadium, launching 28 first-round homers, including 13 consecutive blasts. His longest shot …

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Image of Mike Mussina, highlighting his achievements and Cy Young snub.

Where’s the Cy Young? Hall of Fame Pitchers Who Never Got the Call

Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Michael SchatzDespite their incredible careers and numerous achievements, these legendary pitchers never managed to capture baseball’s most prestigious pitching award. From record-breaking strikeout kings to World Series heroes, here are 12 of the most dominant pitchers who somehow never won a Cy Young Award. Luis Tiant: The Man with the Unique Delivery Luis Tiant compiled 229 wins and a stellar 3.30 career ERA across his 19-year career. Known for …

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Image of the Mike Trout 2009 Bowman Chrome Draft Prospects Superfractor, a key item in expensive baseball memorabilia.

The Baseball Memorabilia Prices That Made Collectors’ Jaws Drop

Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Michael SchatzExplore the most valuable pieces of baseball history ever sold at auction. From rare cards to game-worn jerseys, these items represent the pinnacle of sports memorabilia collecting, with some pieces fetching prices that rival fine art masterpieces. Babe Ruth’s 1914 Baltimore News Card This pre-rookie card features a 19-year-old Babe Ruth as a minor league pitcher for Baltimore. With only about 10 copies known to exist, it’s one …

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Image depicting the intense final moments of the 2001 World Series Game 7, highlighting the Diamondbacks' historic victory.

Game 7: When the World Series Refused to End Quietly

Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Michael SchatzRelive baseball history through these unforgettable Game 7 moments that defined the World Series. From walk-off heroics to pitching masterpieces, these games represent the pinnacle of October baseball drama. 1960: Pirates Shock Yankees with Mazeroski’s Walk-Off Homer In one of baseball’s most dramatic moments, Bill Mazeroski became the first player to end a World Series with a home run. Despite being outscored 55-27 in the series, the Pirates …

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Image of Dallas Keuchel showcasing his distinctive bushy beard, part of baseball's iconic facial hair.

Fear the Beard, the Handlebar, and Everything Between

Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Michael SchatzFrom intimidating handlebar mustaches to iconic full beards, baseball has seen some truly memorable facial hair moments. Here are the most legendary mustaches and beards that have graced America’s pastime. 1. Rollie Fingers – The Handlebar Icon The Hall of Fame reliever’s waxed handlebar mustache became his trademark and set the standard for baseball facial hair. Originally grown during the Oakland A’s 1972 facial hair competition, Fingers maintained …

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These 12 Leadoff Hitters Terrorized Pitchers for Decades: See Who Made the Cut - 8. Johnny Damon: Mr. Consistency

Meet the Leadoff Men Who Made Pitchers Lose Sleep

Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Michael SchatzFrom the legendary Rickey Henderson to the versatile Craig Biggio, these 12 players revolutionized the leadoff position in baseball. Each brought their unique combination of speed, power, and on-base skills to become the catalysts for their teams’ success. 1. Rickey Henderson: The Greatest Leadoff Hitter of All Time The undisputed king of leadoff hitters, Henderson holds MLB records with 1,406 stolen bases and 2,295 runs scored. His combination …

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