Q&A with Eric Byrnes

Goat Jerseys sits down with one of the most colorful athletes around. Former MLB player, Eric Byrnes. From playing HS against Tom Brady, to excelling at UCLA in the books and on the ball field. Carving out a really good pro career, to now thriving as a stellar broadcaster. Let’s not forget the Ironman Triathlons, his world record speed golf time, and his work with the Pat Tillman Foundation. Let’s get to know him…

1. Where did you grow up? San Francisco, Bay Area.

2. Were you a big sports fan growing up? If so, what was the first athlete and team you fell in love with? Yup, 49ers and Joe Montana, and the SF Giants and Will Clark.

3. What was life like as a teenager, what did Eric Byrnes dream of becoming? I wanted to do two things with my life – play sports, and talk about sports.

4. You were fun to watch on the diamond, you played with so much heart. Was the HS and college Eric Byrnes the same ballplayer? I played the same way my entire career as I did when I was 9 years old. My Dad taught me that the only 2 things we control are attitude and effort. It doesn’t take any skill to hustle.

5. All-time favorite uniform in sports? Astros, rainbows.

6. One ballpark to watch a game from the past, where would it be? Candlestick Park

7. What era of baseball do you think produced the best uniforms? The 70’s

8. One person in the world living or deceased that you could have 15 minutes to sit down with and pick their brain, who would it be? Teddy Roosevelt

9. Favorite food, favorite city, and all-time favorite sports movie? Mexican, New York, The Natural.

10. In life they say when you hear good advice, you should always do two things: Take it in and pass it on. What would you pass on to a younger colleague? Education and experience are life. Don’t ever stop learning and don’t ever stop charging!

Thanks to Eric for the time, much appreciated!

He’s a great follow on Twitter: @byrnes22