Next on the Tee with former Pirates outfielder Adam Hyzdu, 5-time Tour winner Jim Gallagher Jr.
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On this episode of Next on the Tee, host Chris Mascaro is joined by former Pirates and Red Sox outfielder Adam Hyzdu, and Jim Gallagher Jr., a five-time winner on Tour who is now a broadcaster.
Hyzdu’s journey in baseball began as a prospect in high school, where he left an indelible mark by breaking records, including surpassing Ken Griffey Jr.’s home run record at Moeller High School in Cincinnati. Despite not being selected as the first overall pick or landing with the Reds as he anticipated, being drafted 15th by the San Francisco Giants fueled his determination. Battling skepticism, his resilience led him to remarkable minor league seasons in 1999 and 2000, where he showcased his abilities by combining to hit 61 home runs and drive in more than 200 runs. His eventual stint with the Pittsburgh Pirates saw him etch his name in history. In Double-A Altoona, his number was retired, a testament to his impact on the organization. From his memorable Major League debut with the Pirates against the Reds to the clutch pinch-hit home run that sealed a victory just days after his call-up, Hyzdu shares stories from his time in the big leagues, including his stint with the 2004 Red Sox during their historic World Series season.
Gallagher, a beacon of sportsmanship, success and positivity in the world of golf, is the most decorated player in University of Tennessee history. His accolades span across prestigious halls of fame, including Indiana, Tennessee and Mississippi. Reflecting on his recent honor of inducting his siblings into the Indiana Golf Hall of Fame, Gallagher shares poignant insights into his family and the significance of their shared legacy. From discussing the UT Vols’ participation in the NCAA regional tournament to revisiting his third-place finish in the 1991 PGA Championship at Crooked Stick — a tournament that witnessed the meteoric rise of John Daly — his journey in golf is one of incredible triumphs and fantastic stories. He also offers his thoughts on what needs to happen to bring the professional game back together so it can move forward with the best players being in the same fields.
Listen: Next on the Tee with Chris Mascaro
