Major League Beginnings Podcast

Mark Sweeney, Mike Pomeranz, and Barry Axelrod discuss the MLB's lockout, effective Dec. 2, 2021. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

White Sox folk hero, Geoff Blum talks title, trades and tributes on this episode of Major League Beginnings. Enjoy Geoff's ride over 14 seasons with six clubs. The highlight, his prolific game 3-run homer in the 2005 World Series against his former team, the Houston Astros. Hear all the great backstories about the parties, parade, and being included in the statue that forever immortalizes the team that broke an 88 year title drought on the South Side.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

All Star outfielder and World Series champ, Preston Wilson, joins the show.Preston shares his favorite stories from a 10 year, six team big league career, including what it was like following in the footsteps of his famous father, Mets legend Mookie Wilson, having a 30/30 season, and winning it all with the 2006 Cardinals!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Eight-time gold glove winner, Jim Edmonds, a perpetual highlight reel, shares his amazing story. From “the catch” that put him on the map, to a World Series championship with the Saint Louis Cardinals, Jim's got you covered like centerfield! Hear Edmonds at his most candid, on Pujols, McGwire, La Russa and more!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Former Giants star, J. T. Snow talks magical postseason moments and a trophy case packed with awards! J. T. Tells us what it was like breaking in with the Yankees and learning from Don Mattingly. You won't want to miss his stories including the hysterical conversation he had when Rawlings tried to convince him to use their gloves when they presented him with six straight Gold Glove awards.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, the guys are joined by the gravity-defying, 2006 All-Star outfielder, Gary Matthews Jr. With 12 years in the big leagues, seven teams and THAT catch he made in 2006, Matthews Jr. has stories to tell. He also shares the impact and importance of his father, who was also in the big leagues and how his family influenced his approach to the game.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hall of famer, Craig Biggio joins the podcast. Biggio spent his entire 20 year career with the Houston Astros. The 7-time all star, had more than 3,000 hits and was the first player to be enshrined in Cooperstown wearing an Astros cap.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Arizona Diamondbacks hero, Luis “Gonzo” Gonzalez, joins the guys to talk about the epic 2001 World Series, the year a country in mourning watched his team topple the mighty New York Yankees.Luis takes you on a fabulously entertaining run through his 19 seasons. You will learn who impacted him most as he broke in with the Houston Astros, why he tried to buy all his rookie cards on E-Bay, which of his five all-star games meant the most to him.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you like hitting and social media stars, former big leaguer Jeff Frye is your man!Jeff tells us how he beat the odds against a 30th round draft pick and parlaying his opportunity into an eight year major league career that included hitting for the cycle in his final season. Frye, now an agent, is also the satirical magician behind the “She gone” viral videos. Catch up with the former Ranger, Red Sox, Rockie and Blue Jay on this episode of Major League Beginnings.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brewer favorite, Geoff Jenkins visits with the guys on Major League Beginnings. One of the game's great tale tellers, Geoff takes you on his fantastic, decade long ride in Milwaukee, his all star season, taking a run down Bernie Brewer's slide and how he once won the famous sausage race!You will also hear the high stakes story of how he became part of the 2008 World Series champion, Philadelphia Phillies and the crazy nights of celebration that followed!Privacy Policy and California Privacy Notice.

Former big league pitching workhorse, Aaron Harang takes you on his eight team journey spanning 14 MLB seasons.Hear what it was like breaking in as part of the “Moneyball A's,” with Hudson, Zito and Mulder. Aaron shares his proudest memories and tells you about the honor and pressure of being the opening day starter five different seasons, the secret to avoiding serious injury and what it took to win a strikeout title.Privacy Policy and California Privacy Notice.

El Titán, Adrián González, talks with us as he prepares for the 2021 Olympics in Japan as a member of Team Mexico.Once a hitter, always a hitter, González takes us along on his journey through five organizations. The former first overall pick in the 2000 draft thrills you with stories of his five postseason runs and five all-star games representing the Padres and Dodgers.

14 year big leaguer, Andy Ashby, shares the inspiring story of his odds-defying rise from un-drafted free agent to All-Star pitcher.Andy tells us what brought him to tears when he made his major league debut, who most shaped his pitching career, and what the emotions were like pitching for the star-studded San Diego Padres during their 1998 World Series run.

Seattle slugger, Bret Boone, talks Mariners, Ichiro and All-Star games in this episode of Major League Beginnings.Boone is part of the first and only third generation baseball family, following his dad and grandfather. Find out who Bret feels most shaped his career, what he really thought of Ken Griffey Jr., and what it was like to play along his Big League brother, Aaron.

“Nomah!” Talks Beantown, BoSox and big moments. Six-time all-star and two-time batting champ, Nomar Garciaparra takes you through his Rookie of the Year campaign, friendship with Ted Williams and his quest to hit .400.Nomar tells you what he thinks led to his trade out of Boston prior to the Red Sox 2004 World Series title and what it was like being compared to Joe DiMaggio, all while being among the game’s greatest shortstops.Join Nomar and his former teammate, Mark Sweeney, on this episode of Major League Beginnings.

Teenage phenom, Bret Saberhagen discusses his magical climb from 19th round high school draft pick to World Series MVP by age 21!Follow along as Bret shares with us which of his three all-star games meant the most to him, what it was like “off the field” with the great Kansas City Royals teams of the 80’s, and how he managed to join only Doc Gooden and Fernando Valenzuela as the only three men ever to win the Cy Young before age 22.

Major League all-star closer, Huston Street takes you on a fabulous journey through his life. Huston grew up the son of a Texas sports legend, proudly followed in his father’s footsteps, became Rookie of the Year, and carved out his own successful path.You will enjoy Huston’s self-deprecating candor making his personal stories relatable and endearing. From a self-described “cocky hotshot” out of the University of Texas, to one of baseball’s top 20 all-time saves leaders, Huston’s life is a story well worth hearing.

World Series Champ, All-Star, and Gold Glove Winner, Steve Finley shares his favorite clubhouse stories from 19“seasons in the sun!”Steve takes you into the batter’s box for his division-clinching grand slam for the Dodgers and onto the field for the Diamondbacks 2001 World Series title.Hear about Cal Ripken’s impact on him as a rookie, the career-changing lesson he learned from Tony Gwynn, and which facet of his well-rounded game he is most proud of.One of the finest in the field, Steve Finley, on this episode of Major League Beginnings.

Cincinnati Reds broadcasting legend, Marty Brennaman, takes you on a hilarious and candid run through his 46 years behind the microphone. Known for his thoughtful and entertaining play-by-play, Brennaman never shied away from controversy or expressing his opinion.Marty discusses his relationship with longtime broadcasting partner Joe Nuxhall, his public push to get Pete Rose into the Hall of Fame, how the reds convinced him not to retire, and why being in Cincinnati’s Hall of Fame means so much to him. From dust-ups with players to milestone calls, it is Marty “unfiltered” on Major League Beginnings.

Phillies legend and current big league star, Cole Hamels grants you front row access to his most personal MVP stories from a 15 year career that includes a 2008 World Series championship and four all-star games!Cole candidly discusses how it felt, when after 10 seasons in Philadelphia, he was traded days after throwing a no-hitter, his postseason runs with Texas and the Cubs, and who he credits for shaping his career as he shops for a new baseball home.Star left-hander, Cole Hamels, on this episode of Major League Beginnings.

Marlins GM, Kim Ng, the highest ranking woman in baseball, joins Major League Beginnings. Kim takes you on her 30 year climb to the top, from University of Chicago softball star and Yankee fan, to White Sox intern and club and league executive, before finally shattering baseball’s glass ceiling. Find out who actually tried to talk her out of chasing her dream, what Derek Jeter said to convince her to take the Marlins’ job, and how she views the impact her role has on women in and out of the game.

“Bo knows” Nike legend, Bill Frishette. Now, you will too!No one at Nike had more impact on baseball than Bill. He was the man behind the legendary Bo Jackson ad campaign, having brought Nike to the Big Leagues more than 40 years ago.You will hear how he rose from malt vendor at Dodger Stadium to top Nike executive, how he convinced major league players to wear a shoe brand no one in baseball had ever heard of, and how he convinced Nike founder Phil Knight the push into MLB was worth the risk.

ESPN’s rising star broadcaster, Laura Rutledge, brings skill and versatility to any lineup. On this episode, you will hear how the host of ESPN’s NFL Live and the SEC Network’s SEC Nation, carved out her niche.Laura takes us on her journey that includes winning “Miss Florida” in 2012, landing her first TV job while still in journalism school, and honing her craft as a sideline reporter for the Tampa Bay Rays and the San Diego Padres. Find out who inspired her, which sport she loves most, and how she feels the sports world is evolving regarding women. Laura joins the guys, on this episode of Major League Beginnings.

Former Chicago Cub Mark Prior flashed through baseball like a comet, brilliantly lighting up a city and sport before flaming out far too soon.Few players burst onto the scene with as much hype and expectation. But even with that pressure, Prior tantalized fans before a cruel string of injuries robbed him of his baseball gifts. On this episode, Mark shares his journey from top pick and pride of Chicago, to a seven year battle to return to the majors. Now a World Series champion coach with the Dodgers, Mark’s perspective has been reshaped.

ESPN’s versatile star and former Big Leaguer, Eduardo Perez joins the guys. Eduardo tells us what it was like growing up as Tony’s little boy inside the clubhouse of the Big Red Machine and later his unexpected rise to first round draft choice.Never before told stories including the shocking thing Eduardo’s dad told him when he was called to the majors, how he overcame a debilitating eye injury, the unexpected journey from player to broadcaster, interviewing a president, his favorite baseball souvenirs and waking up at 3am to call games in Korea! Eduardo’s fantastical journey and where it may lead, on this episode of Major League Beginnings.

Phillie great, Larry Bowa brings his razor-sharp edge to the podcast! The fiery face of Philadelphia for more than a decade shares his best stories from more than 50 years in the game. Hear how a guy who never made his high school team managed to become a five-time all-star and World Series champ!Larry tells us who is responsible for his success, what he really thought of his legendary teammates and he shares the “secret sauce” when it comes to evaluating big league players. Larry “unleashed”...on this episode of Major League Beginnings!

Fresh off the scandal that rocked baseball, Detroit Tigers manager A.J. Hinch joins us for a frank and open discussion. A.J. talks about restoring his tarnished image and reviving a storied franchise. Hinch served a year in baseball exile for his role in the 2017 Houston Astros sign-stealing scandal. You will hear what he learned, how his actions deeply affected his family and how he hopes to reshape his life and legacy.

Former San Francisco Giants all-star and current wine connoisseur, Rich Aurilia joins his former agent and teammate on this episode of Major League Beginnings.Mark, Mike, Barry and Rich discuss the perils of free agency, what it was like hitting in front of MLB’s all-time home run leader, and why Rich’s greatest personal memories from his 15 seasons come from the most unexpected perspective any of our guests have ever offered.

Jump into the chaos of sideline reporting when ESPN’s versatile star, Kris Budden joins us on Major League Beginnings. Kris covers many of the sporting world’s biggest events including the Olympics, college and pro football, basketball and baseball.On this episode, find out which sport Kris loves most, which is the most challenging to cover, how she deals with the hot button issue of sexism in sports, and why her latest venture is among her most satisfying!

World Series champ and one of baseball’s funniest storytellers, Ryan Dempster joins us!Ryan’s fun and raucous ride over 16 big league seasons is a must listen for Marlins, Cub, and Red Sox fans alike.Find out why the glove-flapping right hander put host Mark Sweeney’s hotel furniture out on the balcony, how former teammate Kevin Millar changed his career, how Lou Piniella impacted his role as both starter and reliever in Chicago, and Ryan shares with you the greatest World Series celebration story ever told on Major League Beginnings!

Self-made star, Kirby Yates, one of the game’s finest relievers, joins the podcast. In a sport where kids and cash grab the headlines, Kirby bucks the trend and inspires fans and players alike.We will share his journey from undrafted free agent to 2019’s best closer. Find out why he nearly left the game, who turned his career around, and what his run through free agency has been like.

“Captain America,” Mets legend David Wright joins Mark and Mike on this episode. The seven time all-star and WBC hero takes you behind the scenes of his emotional farewell at CitiField in New York, that included walking the concourse in full uniform!You will also hear what rattled him most about returning to the team after rehabbing excruciating back injuries, why he decided to write a book after retiring, and whether the former Mets captain intends to remain part of the game after 14 seasons as the face of their franchise.

There is nothing more exciting for a young fan than getting their first baseball glove. The feel and smell of the new leather, and of course, breaking it in! An indelible sensory experience that inexorably links you to the game forever.No one knows that better than Jim Hughes who just retired after nearly 40 years with Rawlings, the official glove of MLB.Jim shares his favorite memories of the countless players he’s outfitted, their quirks and requests, the megadeals he’s done and the surprising life that led him to him becoming among “The Finest in the Field.”

One of baseball’s sharpest and most engaging storytellers joins the guys on this episode of Major League Beginnings. Former big league pitcher, CJ Nitkowski, brings years of globetrotting playing experience and next-gen analytics into his current role as color analyst for the Texas Rangers.CJ takes you along on the rollercoaster ride of his professional life. A first round pick who played 10 seasons in the majors, Japan and Korea, CJ also takes us with him as he was cast in the Jackie Robinson biopic, “42,” and into his current, seemingly ubiquitous broadcasting career.

Dodgers sideline star, Alanna Rizzo, one of baseball’s best and most popular broadcasters talks Tinseltown and titles on this episode of Major League Beginnings! This Emmy award winner shares the crazy “bubble backstory” of the Dodgers 2020 run that was capped by their World Series championship. You will hear how she landed her LA gig, why she nearly “passed” on it, what the legendary Vin Scully meant to her, and how she sees womens’ roles in the changing landscape of Major League Baseball. Plus, how you can support her foundation to help rescue animals, guidrysguardian.org !

Royals royalty, Alex Gordon joins the podcast!Alex honors fans and teammates as he tells us what went into his decision to retire in 2020 after 14 seasons with the team he grew up rooting for, the Kansas City Royals. One of the game’s great defenders opens up about the pressures of KC’s 2015 title run, what he learned from dealing with high expectations and failure early in his career, playing in the shadow of Hall of Famer, George Brett, and what the next chapter of his life will look like.Alex Gordon, on life, legacy and a “jersey full of pine tar” on this episode of Major League Beginnings.

A big-time double-play on this edition of Major League Beginnings! First, go inside Cooperstown when we visit with Jeff Idelson, the former president of baseball’s Hall of Fame. Jeff shares his favorite moments from his 11 year tenure atop sports’ grandest museum. Hear the craziest behind the scenes stories from the annual induction ceremonies and Jeff reveals the Hall’s hidden gems you can’t afford to miss when you visit Cooperstown.Then, learn about the perfect gift for the fan in your life, when Jeff and renowned photographer Jean Fruth share stories from their latest project, “Grassroots Baseball: Where Legends Begin.” This beautifully designed hardcover coffee table book features 250 of Jean’s spectacular images from around the world illustrating the beauty of the game enhanced with essays written by baseball’s greatest players! Be sure to visit www.majorleaguebeginnings.com to order your legendary player autographed edition today!

Clayton Kershaw, baseball’s superstar lefthander and Dodgers’ ace, joins the guys fresh off winning the 2020 World Series! The three-time Cy Young Award winner tells us how deeply meaningful it was to be part of ending the Dodgers’ 32 year title drought.Kershaw tells you about the raw emotion behind winning, how it compares to the many personal accolades he has received, what his relationship is like with the great Sandy Koufax and which Dodger helped him most as a struggling rookie.This certain Hall of Famer is also taking his off-field charity projects to new heights. You’ll see what he is doing to help underserved children and how you can get involved.

15 years in the Big Leagues and this former Brewer can still "tap" a great story! Two-time All-Star, Mark Loretta joins Major League Beginnings. He's seen it all from the field to the front office. 'Lo is undeniably one of baseball's sharpest and funniest men. He'll tell you what turned him from a gap hitter into a "pull with pop" guy, which of the five teams he played for impacted him most, and the power of performing on Patriots Day in Boston.

World Series Champ and gregarious Philly cheesesteak connoisseur, Mark Gubicza, joins Major League Beginnings! Take the ride from Mark's early days as young star pitcher with the Kansas City Royals during the 80's to his current role as the color voice of the Los Angeles Angels. "Goobie" tells us what it really took to win 20 games in a season, what happens when your relatives have to sleep in your hotel room before the playoffs, why hanging out with Hall of Famer, George Brett, could be both fun and dangerous, and the difference between being Mike Trout and what "Bo knows!"

Our guest on this episode helped propel the Houston Astros to their first World Series! Brad Ausmus spent 18 seasons behind the plate and now he’s behind the mic on Major League Beginnings. Brad takes us on his journey from late-round draft pick and Ivy Leaguer to catching some of the game’s most incredible pitchers before becoming a manager and front office executive. Find out who had the best stuff he ever caught and who he would want pitching a game 7!From his debut as a player to the lessons he’s learned as a Big League manager, Brad shares the highlights from an extraordinary career that’s still unfolding.

Houston, this one is a Hall of Famer, no problem! Astros legend, Jeff Bagwell digs in for a fantastic conversation on Major League Beginnings! For 15 incredible seasons, “Baggy” was the most powerful of Houston’s “Killer B’s,” tormenting pitchers en route to becoming a Rookie of the Year, an MVP, a four time All-Star, and one of the game’s greatest first basemen enshrined in Cooperstown. Come along with Jeff as he shares his favorite stories with Mark, Mike and his longtime agent and friend, Barry Axelrod!

First overall pick. Olympic hero. Major League All-Star. Current Yankee coach Phil Nevin has led a baseball life most only dream of. Phil joins the guys in a raw and insightful conversation about his extraordinary road to the Big Leagues, his most memorable playing days, meaningful moments and life-shaping relationships. Plus find out why the next few years may actually be the most stressful and exciting of his life.

The sound of Hells Bells let’s you know our guest on this episode is none other than the greatest closer in National League history, Trevor Hoffman. The Hall of Famer tells us the three things that FEW fans know truly shaped his career. Learn what makes him most proud...and why his teammates meant more to him than anything else in the game. A Master class on pitching, family, friends and humility from the man with 601 career saves.

Cardinal and Rockie big bopper, Matt Holliday joins us on this edition of Major League Beginnings. Matt spent 15 seasons in the Big Leagues, was a seven time all-star, hit 20 plus homers in 9 straight seasons, and was a World Series Champ!Learn what it was like growing up in a baseball family, playing with current and future Hall of Famers in Saint Louis and Colorado, and the pain of the trades that shaped him personally and professionally. Catch up with one of the game’s great men both on and off the field!

The most prolific home run hitter in Los Angeles Dodgers’ history joins the guys on this edition of Major League Beginnings. 1992 Rookie of the Year, Eric Karros tells you about his favorite teammate, his greatest all-star snub and the moment that he earned his Hall of Fame manager’s trust ensuring his spot as LA’s first baseman for a decade! Join Eric on his journey from UCLA walk-on to longtime Dodger star and into the broadcast booth where you can catch still catch him each season!

Hey Chicago, what do you say? The Red Baron joins the boys today! Rick Sutcliffe and his longtime agent, friend and podcast co-host, Barry Axelrod stroll down memory lane with Mark and Mike. "Sut" spins hilarious and personal stories of his Major League Beginnings and beyond. You will hear about the man who saved Rick's life, his force-fed Dodgers debut, the drought-busting playoff runs, night baseball at Wrigley and cracking open a cold...Camden Yards! The rarely-if-ever -told stories, from the man who lived 'em all, on this episode of Major League Beginnings.

From San Francisco to Boston, he became a quiet legend. Without him, the Red Sox might not have broken an 86 year World Series title drought. Batting champ and fan favorite, Bill Mueller joins the guys on this episode of Major League Beginnings.As the only player to hit Grand Slams from both sides of the plate in one game, Mueller goes inside his prolific Boston at bat in the 2004 American League Championship Series, the nail-biting race for the 2003 batting title, and all the unfiltered stories of his difficult climb to the Big Leagues.

Hall of Famer...and TIGER for life...Alan TRAMMELL is with us. He was called to the bigs as a wide eyed teenager, spent the next 20 seasons anchoring the Detroit Tiger infield along side his buddy, Lou Whitaker. Alan takes us through his rough initiation to the Motor City, how he convinced his manager Sparky Anderson, he could actually play in the big leagues, what surprised him most about winning the World Series, and the raw emotion even now, after his long overdue call to the Hall of Fame.

One of Cooperstown’s most colorful characters, Bert Blyleven joins the guys. As baseball’s first Dutch-born Hall of Famer, Bert tells us how a kid from Zeist, Holland managed to make it to the Major Leagues by 19 years old. You will hear how he earned the nickname, “The Frying Dutchman,” who really taught him one of the greatest pitches in baseball history, and the surprising story of what he considers to be his greatest moment in a career that included a no-hitter, two World Series championships and a hall of fame induction.

The man who led all of baseball in hits and doubles through the decade of the 90’s, Mark Grace, is featured in this episode. The Cub star and member of the World Series winning Diamondbacks hangs out with his longtime agent and podcast cohost, Barry Axelrod, to share his favorite memories from Wrigleyville to Copper Square. “Gracey” relives the electricity of Wrigley’s first night game, reveals the legends who shaped his career, and opens up about the pain of being asked to leave Chicago, and why now, after 20 years, he is headed back to the Windy City!