Friends --

I was gonna write a long involved post about how the A's recent run of mediocrity was the result of a clandestine conspiracy between the Commissioner, Lew Wolff, Billy Beane and malevolent extraterrestrials to move the franchise to an Earth-like planet in the constellation of Taurus -- and how they were attracted to the Athletics instead of the other 29 MLB teams because many of their given names on their home-world are strange, acronymical monikers like VORP and wOBA and FIP -- but somehow Brodie's post here seemed more constructive, relevant and valuable.  That, and we want our mainstream-media pals to post more than once every three years, so in a hopelessly-starstruck and semi-sycophantic move I am placing this one atop the front page for the day, until we start to Take a Leake on the Redlegs at around 7 PM.

Enjoy!  And thank you Mr. Brazil for asking our opinions!

Peace, love, and Kouzmanoff,
emperorum nobodius II

Hello again, AN.  I've continued lurking for quite some time, but I believe the last time I posted was almost three years ago, when we were doing the pregame shows for KICU.  My young career almost 'jumped the shark' back then with Swisher Unscripted... haha.. but i digress.

Anyways, to the present, I've been with Comcast SportsNet for the last year and a half.  Most recently covering the Sharks on a regular basis throughout the season, and beyond.  The playoff beard was one heck of an experiment.  But now in the summer, I'm fortunately back to being able to work on our A's Pre/Postgame Live shows quite frequently.  Love going back to my East Bay roots!

You guys here on the site are obviously at the core of our target audience, being loyal, dedicated and flat out hardcore A's fans.  So with that, I wanted to pose a couple questions...

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Hello AN,

We have just put up a couple of nice recap videos from the 2007 season on our website http://www.ondeckshow.com

Also, there you will find most all the segments from our pregame shows this year, including what we understand as the fan favorite, Swisher Unscripted.

Don't forget, tonight in Cleveland and Tuesday in Boston are the final telecasts of 2007 on Action 36 Cable 6.  Thanks for watching throughout the year!

Brodie Brazil

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Hello AN:

Hope you are all among the first 10,000 fans to get your very own Nick Swisher Belt Buckle today!

We had 2 A's On Deck pregame shows this week, and many of the segments are now available online for those of you who missed them on TV the first time:

Go to: http://www.ondeckshow.com

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Usually it goes against broadcast etiquette to premiere a video on the web instead of on a television show.  But I wanted to make sure all of Athletics Nation has the chance to enjoy "flA'Shback: Then And Now", which can be found at OnDeckShow.com.

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Hello AN:

Just wanted to spread the word that we've posted a bunch of new video content at www.ondeckshow.com.

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Hello AN;

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On the eve of the 2007 A's debut, we have posted new features, packages and videos from our recent pregame shows at:

OnDeckShow.com.

The site also has a schedule for upcoming pregame broadcasts on Action 36 Cable 6.

Enjoy!

Brodie Brazil

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Hello AN,

Thought I'd do the deed of informing you all there is a full hour of pregame coverage before tonight's A's/Giants contest on Action 36 Cable 6 KICU-TV.  Here's the agenda:

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Hello AN,

After a couple days of doing interviews and working A's Spring Training at the Papago Park Complex, I thought you all might enjoy some very early observations.

• All the guys are elated to have Geren as manager.  Bobby Crosby told me something to the effect of: "We all really liked his personality before, and were hoping as Manager it wouldn't change.  And so far it hasn't".  Chavez, Ellis, Swisher, Harden... right on down the roster, everyone is excited for Geren, and happy to have him.  
• Alan Embree has velocity.  Hard to describe the sound his fastball makes here in a post... but lets just say it has extra zip.  He should be a benefit not only in the bullpen but also in the clubhouse... a genuinely nice guy who fits the A's reputation.
• Mike Piazza is doing overtime, with great work ethic.  It would be easy to just complete the workouts, grab a bat, take some cuts, and call it a day.  But we've seen him in full gear working out with the catchers, trading tips with Kendall, and passing along knowlege to Brown and Suzuki.  I might add he was a genuinely nice guy to interview.
• Milton is the man.  Hard to believe this time last year his personality was in question.  With his play in the second half and playoffs of last season and his leadership and work ethic since day one... it's clear to see Milton has become one of the many backbones in the clubhouse.
• Of course there are many other positives: Shannon Stewart is healthy and hungry, a beefed-up Bobby Kielty was hitting 420 foot moonshots during batting practice, and the virtually revamped coaching staff says it's coming together just fine.

We'll have an hour of pregame coverage on March 31 before the A's/Giants preseason broadcast on Action 36 Cable 6, and we'll be back with another pregame On Deck Show for the home opener April 9th on Action 36 Cable 6.

Once again we'll be posting all our television features online at OnDeckShow.com

Brodie Brazil
Action 36 Cable 6

AN:

It's my pleasure to present this one to you: the clubhouse celebration from Friday's ALDS clincher.  Many of you have seen the quick clips on the news and web and ESPN.  But here's a nice 5 minute extended version, and we spoke with almost everyone we could find in the madness.  Enjoy the new 16x9 widescreen format!

ALDS Celebration: Quicktime | Windows Media
More videos at: ondeckshow.com

Brodie Brazil
Action 36 Cable 6

Hey AN:

I know you all enjoyed watching the A's celebrate last night on television in Seattle.  Here are some additional exclusive interviews from the clubhouse...

Celebration!: Quicktime | Windows Media
More videos at: www.ondeckshow.com

Also, mark your calendars for the following programs on Action 36 Cable 6:
Saturday, Sept 30th, 6:00p - A's On Deck Special: 2006 in Review
Saturday, Sept 30th, 6:30p - A's All Access 2006
Saturday, Sept 30th, 7:00p - A's vs. Angels

In addition, both shows will replay Monday night, Oct 2nd starting at 8pm

Enjoy!
Brodie Brazil

Hey AN...

Here's another batch of videos for your viewing pleasure.  As a reminder, if you want to see more, check out: ondeckshow.com.

Life in Left: Quicktime | Windows Media
Meet some of the most hardcore baseball fans, who just happen to call the left field bleachers home.

Swisher Unscripted #15: Quicktime | Windows Media
The Season Finale...

Sharp Shooter: Quicktime | Windows Media
We introduce you to A's Team Photographer Michael Zagaris, and show you some of the incredible behind the scenes pictures he's caputred in 2006

Thanks for the support this year, see you all at the park... in the postseason!

Brodie Brazil

Hey AN,

Just wanted to let you know what is scheduled for our final live pregame show of the 2006 regular season, Tonight at 6:30p on Action 36 Cable 6

"Life in Left" - An extended feature on some incredible A's fans who literally call the left field bleachers home.

"Swisher Unscripted: Season Finale" - It's unscripted... who knows what might happen?

"One Frame at a Time" - We meet A's Team Photographer Michael Zagaris, and show you some INCREDIBLE behind the scenes photos he's captured this year.  Much of it has never been seen before.

That plus interviews with Harden, Chavez, Kotsay, Ellis and DJ.  I'll post all the video after it airs at: www.ondeckshow.com, but tune in and check it out if you get the chance!

All the best,
Brodie Brazil

Hello AN Faithful:

As most of you know, I frequently post videos from our pregame shows here on the site so those of you attending the game, or out of town have the opportunity to watch.

Now, many of the best videos from 2006 and 2005 have been compiled at the website:

http://www.ondeckshow.com

Special thanks to Blez for letting me announce this here, and I hope you all enjoy.  

Brodie Brazil

Hey AN:

Here's video from a feature we aired tonight on the pregame show.  As you all probably know the Raiders had two preseason games last week.  Then on Sunday afternoon after fanfest, crews had about 24 hours to change the stadium from football to baseball configuration, just in time for the A's/Red Sox opener last night.  

Here is a look at what goes on, hopefully it brings a new respect to the massive operation that takes place each time the changeover occurs.

Coliseum Changeover: Quicktime | Windows Media

Hey AN,

Thanks for all the great response about the "Swisher Unscripted" segment we do for the On Deck pregame shows on Action 36 Cable 6.  The latest episode is sure to be one of the most popular, as Nick's mom sent us photos from his childhood.  As always, Swish was a good guy for playing along, especially since we completely surprised him with the photos.

Enjoy!,

Brodie Brazil

Swisher Unscripted #12: Quicktime | Windows Media

Hey AN:
I have another fresh batch of videos from the pregame show we aired tonight.  Enjoy:

Root Beer Float Day: Quicktime | Windows Media
The A's help raise $40,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation

Swisher Unscripted #11: Quicktime | Windows Media
We talk about 'staying cool', potential makeovers and Canadian knowledge

All Star Game with Barry Zito: Quicktime | Windows Media
A look back at the mid-summer classic with the A's lone representative, Barry Zito

Hello AN.  Wanted to give you all a quick update on the A's lone All Star representative while I am here in Pittsburgh.  I spoke with Zito yesterday afternoon, he said he was feeling quite relaxed and would be staying pretty low key during his stay in the Steel City.  He said more than anything, he is focused on going over to Boston for the next A's series.  I asked Barry if it's still possible for him to get star struck while here.  Although this was his 3rd All Star appearance, he said it never gets old to walk around the locker room and take a look at the other great names that surround him.

I also interviewed Barry tonight after the game.  He made the interesting point that he was not quite sure how to approach coming out of the bullpen.  He and Roy Halladay were apparently trading tips on the topic, but neither really had any good advice for each other.  Although it only lasted 8 pitches, Barry said he enjoyed his quick inning and was glad to be a part of the AL earning home field advantage in the World Series.

We'll have this complete Road Report and much more on our next pregame show.  Here are also some pictures and narration for your  (intended) enjoyment:

Players arrived by vehicle on a 2,000 foot long red carpet that stretched across the bridge connecting PNC Park to downtown.

A lot of media outlets covering this event.  Nothing close to the Superbowl, but still enough cameras, reporters, and satellite uplinks to make your head spin.

View from the right field press area:

National Anthem performed by Carrie Underwood, complete with a flyover.

Downtown Pittsburgh and the Allegheny River

The home plate entrance of PNC Park

Yours truly sweating it out in the humidity.

Greetings AN.  Thought you all might enjoy these features from our most recent pregame show:

Swisher Unscripted #8: Quicktime | Windows Media
Taped in Denver, Colorado.  Topics include 'Rocky Mountain Oysters' and Nick's less than legible signature.

A's Clubhouse Tour: Quicktime | Windows Media
Clubhouse Manager Steve Vucinich tours our cameras around the A's locker room, and other places that are normally off limits.

When Pitchers Hit: Quicktime | Windows Media
The A's just finished a 9 game stretch in National League ballparks, forcing Oakland's pitchers to become hitters.

What's up AN.  It's been quite a while since I uploaded some video.  We will be doing another live pregame show tomorrow, Saturday June 25th at 12:30p on Action 36 Cable 6 right before A's/Giants.  Some of the features include: Mike Rouse, A's Pitchers Now Hitting, and a Behind the Scenes Tour of the A's Clubhouse and much more.  Until then, enjoy:

Swisher Unscripted #5: Quicktime | Windows  Media

Swisher Unscripted #6: Quicktime | Windows  Media

Swisher Unscripted #7: Quicktime | Windows  Media

Ron Washington: Quicktime | Windows  Media

Baseball 101: Quicktime | Windows  Media

Roadtrips: Quicktime | Windows  Media

Preshow #7: Quicktime | Windows  Media

For those of you who couldn't watch tonight:

We're broadcasting another pregame show this Friday night, 6:30p, immediately before A's/Giants on Action 36 Cable 6

Swisher Unscripted, Road Trip Edition: Quicktime | Windows Media

Ron Washington, More Than A Base Coach: Quicktime | Windows Media

A's Build A House: Quicktime | Windows Media

Hey AN, just wanted to alert you all to the On Deck show we're broadcasting live tonight, 6:30pm on Action 36 Cable 6.  Here's what you'll see...

• Recap of last night's game
  
• Swisher Unscripted: with Nick on the team airplane
  
• 2 Minutes with Bobby Crosby
  
• Ask The A's with Ken Macha
  
• Ron Washington: More than just a 3rd base coach
  
• A's Build A House... literally.
  
• Barry Zito flashback: Late Late Show appearance from 2002
  
• Live interview scheduled with Joe Blanton
• I'll post most of these features sometime after tonight for those who weren't able to watch the show live.

Whats up AN.  More video for your viewing pleasure.  This is all content from our pregame show Friday 4/21.

Swisher Unscripted #4: Quicktime | Windows Media

Nick talks about his special handshake with Milton, pointing to the sky, and his relationship with Frank Thomas.

Zito's Strikeouts for Troops: Quicktime | Windows Media

Barry's Strikeouts for Troops foundation hosted a celebrity charity bash on Thursday in Walnut Creek

A's Beat Writers: Quicktime | Windows Media

You likely read their work every day, now meet the beat reporters who cover the A's

More videos for the AN faithful...

Mark Ellis Feature: Quicktime | Windows Media

Swisher Unscripted #2: Quicktime | Windows Media

Swisher Unscripted #3: Quicktime | Windows Media

Brodie at the Ballpark, The Fans: Quicktime | Windows Media

Opening Night Spectacular: Quicktime | Windows Media

Thought I would also share some of the feature clips from our pregame shows last year on Action 36 Cable 6.  Unfortunately since they were all done last season, they are only available in Quicktime format.

P.A. Announcer Roy Steele: Quicktime

Travelling With the A's: Quicktime

Zito's Strikeouts For Troops: Quicktime

Athletics Nation: Quicktime | Windows Media

A's All Access 2005 Show (Quicktime Only): Segment 1 | Segment 2 | Segment 3 | Segment 4

Thanks to those of you AN regulars who watched our hour long set of pregame shows tonight on Action 36 Cable 6.  I have made some of the segments available online for those who missed the show.  More video to follow in the coming days... we have 2 more pregame shows coming up soon, Monday (4/3) and Wednesday (4/5) at 6:30pm preceeding the A's/Yankees games. I will post another diary with video from those shows too.

A's 2006 TV Commercials: Quicktime | Windows Media

Frank Thomas Profile: Quicktime | Windows Media

Handling the Media in Spring: Quicktime | Windows Media

One on One with Lewis Wolff: Quicktime | Windows Media

Show Closing Montage: Quicktime | Windows Media

Monday April 3rd, 6:30pm: A's On Deck Show - LIVE From McAfee Coliseum

Features: Scheduled interview with Eric Chavez, Live presentations of Gold Glove and Rookie of the Year Awards, "Swisher Unscripted", Live Team Introductions, Tribute to Bill King... and more!

Brodie Brazil
Reporter, Action 36 Cable 6

Hello AN, I'm Brodie Brazil from the A's pregame show on Action 36 Cable 6.  I just got back from a week of covering A's Spring Training, including interviews with most of the players.  I thought I would share a few observations and reports with AN.

• Players told me that "spring training is always an optimistic time", however this year they are especially excited due to the additions they made without having to lose anybody as in past offseasons.  Speaking of the new guys: Milton hit a homer in the first intersquad scrimmage yesterday... Loaiza has been getting his work in... and Frank Thomas has been hitting the cage on a daily basis as well as enduring serious agility workouts.  Thomas hits the ball noticibly harder than anybody else in the cage, the crack of his bat just sounds different.
• Milton Bradley was a class act, he gave me a great interview.  And that was after signing autographs for EVERY SINGLE person that waited for him after workouts.
• You probably won't ever see a team captain with this club.  Kotsay told me it's just not how this team works, there are so many guys and they all handle each other just fine.  He also gives Macha credit for letting the players lead each other.
• Frank Thomas said although his incentive salary is different, he is looking to "earn his way and become the biggest bargain in baseball"
• Loaiza has actually played with Kendall before back in 1996.  Esteban is also looking forward to chasing Fernando Valenzuela for the most wins by a Mexican born pitcher.  Loaiza has 112, Valenzuela holds 173.  
• Dan Haren says this rotation is impressive from 1 to 5.  He also said the A's pitcher all fit the same kind of "mold".
• Barry Zito is looking forward to this season.  Of course he'll be getting a lot more attention because it's a contract year, but he really doesn't overthink it, nor does it stress him out.  He says he's very peaceful inside about it, which in turn helps him play better with a clear head.  Zito's Strikeouts for Troops foundation will continue this year, he has added a couple more players including Manny.
• Nick Swisher is the definition of fan favorite.  Myself and a cameraman hung out with Swish after workouts yesterday, taping a segment while he went out mini-golfing.  Probably the nicest guy you might ever meet... ballplayer or not.  Nick says that unlike a lot of athletes he is purposely trying to be a role model.
• Now of course, if you all want to see all this and so much more, here's the first couple shows on Action 36 Cable 6:

March 31 6:30pm - A's 2006 Preview Show
March 31 7:00pm - A's On Deck Show
March 31 7:30pm - A's vs. Giants

April 3 6:30pm - A's On Deck Show
April 3 7:00pm - A's Home Opener v. Yankees

Hope you can all check it out, feedback and questions are always welcome.

Brodie