Dave Wainhouse
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In this lively episode of the Pacific Northwest Fungo Banter Podcast, hosts Eric Sorensen, Jason Jarrett, and Kelly Gao welcome former Washington State Cougars pitcher Dave Wainhouse for a candid and entertaining deep dive into his unconventional baseball journey. Wainhouse recounts being cut from his high school team, going undrafted out of high school, and then unexpectedly earning a spot at Washington State after a standout performance at an All-State game. His freshman year as a two-way player saw him thrust into the starting rotation after injuries to key pitchers, leading to a meteoric rise in velocity and a first-round MLB draft selection by the Montreal Expos. He shares thrilling stories from his brief pro career, including playing in the Olympics, competing against powerhouse nations like Cuba and Japan, and jumping straight into instructional league. After retiring at 23 to be present for his young son, Wainhouse transitioned into coaching, working with young athletes at Cochise and later at Seattle University under Donnie Harrell. He reflects on the stark differences in recruiting, training, and coaching culture in the 1980s and 1990s—emphasizing the value of competitive, multi-sport athletes and the raw, demanding environment shaped by legendary coaches like Bobo and Ed Sheff. The episode is filled with vivid anecdotes, including Bobo’s infamous 'Red Ass' nickname, a chin-opening line drive from a tee drill, and the legendary rivalry with L.C. State. The hosts and guest celebrate the grit, toughness, and authenticity that defined the era of Pacific Northwest baseball.
Unconventional paths to success are still possible—Wainhouse went from being cut from his high school team to being a first-round MLB draft pick.
Competitive mindset and toughness are more valuable than perfect mechanics or tee work; real baseball players thrive in high-pressure, game-like environments.
Coaching in the 1980s and 1990s was more intense, personal, and physically demanding—characterized by minimal staff, no safety nets, and legendary figures like Bobo and Ed Sheff.
The culture of baseball in the Pacific Northwest was built on neighborhood play, cul-de-sac wiffle ball, and summer leagues that fostered relentless repetition and resilience.
Multi-sport athletes often had an edge because they developed competitive instincts and mental toughness beyond the baseball diamond.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Sponsor Announcements & Podcast Intro
The episode opens with a series of sponsor reads for Max BP, Safeguard, DevoBats, and AstroTurf, highlighting gear and facility upgrades for baseball teams across the Pacific Northwest.
Welcome & Introduction to Dave Wainhouse
The hosts welcome listeners back, acknowledge the busy high school baseball season, and introduce Dave Wainhouse as the featured guest, setting the stage for a story-rich episode.
Dave’s Unlikely Path to Washington State
“I didn't make varsity until my senior year... I went 0-6. And I didn't have one offer, never talked to one coach about playing baseball after high school.”
From Walk-On to First-Round Draft Pick
“My junior year, I was 96. Right. And, and so they're coming to watch Oelrood every day. Right. And there's this weird redhead out there just throwing fucking bowling ball rockets.”
Olympic Dreams & Pro Ball Transition
“I was on the national team traveling through Europe, going to the Olympics to play. And then after we go to Amsterdam for like 15 days and we go to Italy to play in the world championships...”
“It's been an absolute joy watching you grow these last three years. He goes, good luck to you. And he just took off for his dugout. The only time I ever spoke to him, right? But it meant so much...”
“He was a great man. Yeah, he really was. He brought... Anyone who's played for him has been fortunate enough to have really been around him. If you played for him, you were lucky.”
“You can really, there's so many and you guys know it. There's guys that can do every single drill exceptional, but they can't play the game. Right? And so there's a lot of kids that play baseball and there's just very, very few baseball players.”
Hosts
Guest
Dave Wainhouse
person
Bobo
person
Washington State Cougars
other
Ed Sheff
person
Eric Sorensen
person
Jason Jarrett
person
L.C. State
other
Kelly Gao
person
Seattle University
organization
Mercer Island
place
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