Set 2: Hot Foot (w/ Roger McDowell)

In this episode of Stugotz and Company, the hosts dive into the aftermath of a pivotal NBA play-in game, dissecting Steph Curry's standout performance and the chemistry between him and Draymond Green, which they liken to a musical partnership. They explore the broader implications of the Warriors' advancement, the emotional weight of Joel Embiid's absence due to appendicitis, and the controversy around Tyrese Maxey announcing Kyle Lowry's retirement. The conversation shifts to conspiracy theories about the Heat's draft prospects and the NBA's potential favoritism. The highlight of the episode is the in-depth interview with Roger McDowell, 1986 World Series champion with the Mets, who shares humorous and heartfelt stories from his career in his new book, 'Hot Foot, My Hijinks and Upside-Down Life with the World Champion New York Mets.' McDowell reflects on the team's camaraderie, the hijinks in the clubhouse, and the unique culture of a 'hometown' team that felt like family. He recounts pranks like setting Lenny Dykstra's bat on fire with rubbing alcohol and the legendary 'Rusty Staub wig day,' emphasizing how humor and levity helped maintain morale during high-pressure times. The episode closes with a celebration of baseball's golden era and the enduring legacy of the 1986 Mets.