Giants Legend Rich Aurilia on Barry Bonds, Rally Monkeys, Red Stitch Wine & Crushing Hall of Famers

In this episode, Matt and Paul sit down with San Francisco Giants legend Rich Aurilia for an all-timer of a conversation. Straight from the back booth at Original Joe’s in North Beach (5:59).

They talk about Rich’s Brooklyn roots, growing up a Mets fan rooting for the Bad Guys during their ‘86 World Series run, and his journey from St. John’s University to becoming an All-Star shortstop in the Show. He shares stories from his early days under the tutelage of Robby Thompson and Matt Williams, how hot his bat was during the 2002 playoff run, and what it was like to take Greg Maddux and Pedro Martinez deep. They go deep on the pain of losing the 2002 World Series, playing alongside Barry Bonds and Jeff Kent, and what Benito Santiago really thought of the Rally Monkey.

The guys also break down the state of the 2025 Giants — what's wrong with the bats, what needs to change, and who Rich thinks they should target at the trade deadline. Plus, would he ever coach? And how personal was his recruitment pitch to Aaron Judge to come home to San Francisco? Later, they uncork the story behind Red Stitch Wine, the label he co-founded with Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, and how a guy who once worked backstage at the Metropolitan Opera ended up making premium Pinot.

Rich also talks about his guest spot on General Hospital, the one pitcher he loved to face, choosing between The Godfather and Goodfellas, and whether he’d pour a glass of Barolo or Pinot. Rich is a renaissance man with great stories, big opinions, and serious range. Don’t miss this one.

Hosts: Matt Ferrucci & Paul Ruehl

Producer: Nick Conrad

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