Turn a Pair Baseball Podcast host Chris MacLean takes a trip around the bases with a new guest each episode. Join us as we dive in to the back story to some of baseball's most memorable events. We'll meet the players, the writers, announcers and many more that experienced it all in and around the…
Luisa's Mom signed her up for baseball at 12 because it was more convenient than softball. Baseball isn't very popular in Australia so her Mom didn't know the difference between the two. The error proved to be a blessing. Luisa fell deeply in love with the game and has pushed well beyond the societal limits that have been placed on girls and woman in the game of baseball. At 20 years old Luisa has made the roster at Green River College; not as a novelty but as a key member that will contribute to the overall success of the team. She lives baseball 24 hours a day. When she's away from the field, she's at Driveline where she works as the Baseball Technologies Coordinator. She gets to play with all the really cool data and technology offered at Driveline. In our conversation she tells her incredible story, and shares tips to improve strength, bat speed and enhance arm care. Twitter - @luisagauci IG - luisagauic_
Derrik Watson grew up in Stl dreaming of one day playing basketball for John Calipari and the Kentucky Wildcats. He's a pro now, but baseball is his sport. He met Coach Cal, and he shares the pivotal moment in his life on this show. Derrik has been grinding his way through baseball. After graduating from Hazelwood Central High School, he made his way to Southwest Illinois College and eventually Murray State. After 4 years in college the Colorado Rockies selected Derrik in the 25th round of the 2017 draft. His numbers have improved every year from his freshman year of college to now. Baseball Reference: Position: Relief Pitcher Bats: Right • Throws: Right 6-2, 175lb (188cm, 79kg) Team: Colorado Rockies (minors) Born: August 21, 1994 (Age: 26-240d) in St. Louis, MO us Draft: Drafted by the Colorado Rockies in the 25th round of the 2017 MLB June Amateur Draft from Murray State University (Murray, KY). School: Murray State University (Murray, KY) Full Name: Derrik J. Watson Twitter/IG: @dwatson746_
Reagan grew up in a house full of athletes. His Mom, Dad and Sister all played sports at the collegiate level. Competition is fierce in the Todd household. Family card nights got intense during the Covid lockdown. Reagan fell in line with the family tradition of playing a sport in college. After walking off the High School state semi finals game with a grand slam, he went off to Arizona State. He eventually made his way to Colorado Mesa University before being drafted in the 32nd round of the 2018 draft by his hometown Rockies. He's working his way up the system as a high leverage asset out of the bullpen. When he's not making life difficult for MiLB hitters, he's running his own business; a recruiting service for potential college athletes. We talk all about his venture in the episode. Check out his business (www.toddurichrecruiting.com) Reagan is the 4th graduate of Regis Jesuit High School out of Aurora, Colorado to join the show. Twitter - @ReaTodd IG - reagan_todd13 Baseball Reference: Positions: Pitcher and Rightfielder Bats: Left • Throws: Left 6-3, 218lb (190cm, 98kg) Team: Colorado Rockies (minors) Born: August 30, 1995 (Age: 25-224d) in Centennial, CO us Draft: Drafted by the Colorado Rockies in the 32nd round of the 2018 MLB June Amateur Draft from Colorado Mesa University (Grand Junction, CO). High School: Regis Jesuit HS (Aurora, CO) Schools: Arizona State University (Tempe, AZ), Colorado Mesa University (Grand Junction, CO) Full Name: Reagan John Todd
In the summer of 2018, Joel Condreay slashed .355/.438/.532 while playing shortstop at Whitworth University. He threw 2 2/3 innings and managed an ERA of 13.50. In June of that summer, the Rockies drafted him in the 31st round. When he received the call from the scout, he was told he was drafted as a pitcher. His tools are off the chart. He's worked tirelessly from that moment on to reshape himself into a professional pitcher capable of earning a spot on the 25 man roster. We talk about the challenges he has faced and how he has progressed over the last 2 1/2 years. Back of the Baseball Card: - Drafted by the Colorado Rockies in the 31st round of the 2018 MLB June Amateur Draft. - School: Whitworth University (Spokane, WA) - Spent 2018 and 2019 in Boise (53.1 IP, 3.71 ERA, 47 K's, 1.331 WHIP) Twitter: @JCondreay Instagram: @j_condreay
Cordell Greene grew up in Washington state. He eventually made his way to Indiana State's roster (he shares a really cool Larry Bird story on the podcast), then to Des Moines Area Community College and finally Washington University in 2011. A lot has happened from 2011 to now and that's what this episode is about. Cordell is extremely open and raw on this episode. Cordell hasn't played affiliated ball. In fact he has spent the bulk of that time between '11 and now training baseball players from Little League to MLB. He owns a gym in Kirkland, Washington. You can see what he has going on by checking out his Instagram page @thenaturalballplayer. At 30 years old he's putting everything he's got into a comeback. He's a few tenths away from hitting triple digits on the radar gun and hopefully only a few weeks away from signing with an affiliate.
Max Bain was a lightly recruited High School pitcher that landed at Northwoods University in Midland, MI. After four solid years, he failed to land with an affiliated club. A lot of players would have quit. Max Bain is not like a lot of players. He rededicated himself to fitness, nutrition and pitching. He shares his incredible story with us here. Baseball Reference Essentials: Positions: Relief Pitcher and Centerfielder Bats: Right • Throws: Right 6-5, 240lb (196cm, 108kg) Team: Chicago Cubs (minors) Born: September 25, 1997 (Age: 23-170d) in Clarkston, MI us School: Northwood University (Midland, MI) Full Name: Maxwell Aaron Bain Social Media: Twitter - @mbain_38 IG - maxbain38 YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFXwSwmeH9I (check out his vlog)
Justin Topa was a free agent on the heals of a rough 2018 in the Texas Rangers organization. Options weren't plentiful. That all changed one afternoon while throwing live BP to a few Harvard freshman. After blowing up a radar gun the coaches decided to film the session. After posting the video on Twitter the Milwaukee Brewers picked up the phone. Fast forward to September 1st, 2020 and Justin found himself on the mound in Miller Park throwing for the Beer Makers. His east to west slide and filthy two seamer flummoxed MLB batters all the way into October. We sat down with Justin to chronicle his journey. Baseball Reference Data: Position: Pitcher Bats: Right • Throws: Right 6-4, 200lb (193cm, 90kg) Team: Milwaukee Brewers (majors) Born: March 7, 1991 (Age: 30-000d, Happy Birthday!) in Binghamton, NY us Draft: Drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in the 33rd round of the 2012 MLB June Amateur Draft from Long Island University, Brooklyn Campus (Brooklyn, NY) and the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 17th round of the 2013 MLB June Amateur Draft from Long Island University, Brooklyn Campus (Brooklyn, NY). High School: Chenango Valley HS (Binghamton, NY) School: Long Island University, Brooklyn Campus (Brooklyn, NY) Debut: September 1, 2020 (Age 29-178d, 19,847th in MLB history) Rookie Status: Still Intact through 2021 2021 Contract Status: Pre-Arb Eligible Service Time (01/2021): 0.050 • Arb Eligible: 2024 • Free Agent: 2027 Full Name: Justin Robert Topa Twitter: @Justin_Topa
This week we sat down with Top 30 KC Royals prospect Noah Murdock. Noah was drafted in the 7th round of the 2019 draft and is spending his first Spring Training Pitching in Big League camp. The 6'8 hurler proves that pitchers are athletes. In his senior year of high school (2016) he was the Virginia Volleyball player of the year, and led them to a state championship. After dominating the court and diamond at Colonial Heights High, he took his talents to Charlottesville where he pitched for the University of Virginia. Noah's fiancé is a softball coach. She helped him through quarantine by catching his bullpens. She's even given him advice on pitching...you'll have to listen to hear about it. Noah Murdock social media accounts: Twitter - @NoahMurdock28 Instagram - noahmurdock28 Baseball Reference Essentials: Bats: Right • Throws: Right 6-8, 190lb (203cm, 86kg) Born: August 20, 1998 (Age: 22-184d) in Richmond, VA us Draft: Drafted by the Washington Nationals in the 38th round of the 2016 MLB June Amateur Draft from Colonial Heights HS (Colonial Heights, VA) and the Kansas City Royals in the 7th round of the 2019 MLB June Amateur Draft from University of Virginia (Charlottesville, VA). High School: Colonial Heights HS (Colonial Heights, VA) School: University of Virginia (Charlottesville, VA)
The former Michigan State Spartan was chosen in the 12th round of the 2019 MLB draft by the Los Angeles Dodgers. Mitchell grew up in Michigan where hockey and cabin life reign supreme, and we spent a good chunk of time covering those two topics. We even learned about Detroit style pizza. What struck us during the interview was learning how close the Dodgers 2019 draft class had become. The entire class is vying for only a few spots on the MLB roster, yet Mitchell goes in to great detail the lengths these guys go for each other on and off the field. Twitter @mitchtyranski Baseball Reference https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=tyrans000mit Sportscenter Top 10 Play https://twitter.com/BroRiceWarriors/status/999624757153878022?s=20
Often times we think professional baseball players walk a road paved with gold. This certainly hasn't been the case for Brendan Cellucci. In this episode we talk about scary health situations, personal mistakes and how he has worked very hard to overcome. Brendan now uses his struggles to help others. Follow him on social media: Twitter - @brendan_mike27 IG - brendan_cellucci & lettersbylucci Baseball Reference Page: https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=celluc000bre
How does the front office of an historical MiLB franchise cope with the rumors that they're going to lose their affiliation, a cancelled season and lost revenue? Fortunately, on 11/30/20 MLB announced the formation of the MLB Draft League. The Williamsport Crosscutters were one of five teams announced as original participants (eventually they will have a sixth). There are so many questions that need to be answered, and Gabe is our man. Gabe and Chris spend time on Bowman Field staples like The Little League Classic and Rhashan.
Brad Balukjian is a man unafraid of a big adventure, whether it's a lunar chat with Buzz Aldrin or navigating the camel clutch from The Iron Sheik. His latest adventure came to him while sitting in the upper deck enjoying an Oaklan A's game. He'd purchase a pack of unopened 1986 Topps baseball cards and set out on an adventure to meet all 15 players featured on the cards. He'd then compile the interview data and write a book. It was a bold move that turned in to a fantastic book filled with nostalgia, travel humor and a whole lot of personal growth opportunities (for both Brad and the reader). In our conversation with Brad we talk through his 11,341 mile trip around the country. How did the idea come about? What was his objective? What was a surprising theme shared by most of the former stars? If you've read the book, this interview should provide answers to the questions you may have had. If you haven't read the book, this will be the conversation that pushes you over the edge. To purchase this incredible book visit www.waxpackbook.com. The Wax Packers include: Al Cowens, Carlton Fisk, Don Carman, Doc Gooden, Garry Templeton, Gary Pettis, Jaime Cocanower, Lee Mazzilli, Rance Mulliniks, Randy Ready, Richie Hebner, Rick Sutcliffe, Steve Yeager, Vince Coleman
Preston, the son of former Mets star Mookie Wilson, spent his youth at Shea Stadium. The Mets selected an 18 year old Preston Wilson in the 1st round. At 23, he made his big league debut. Hearing the story of his debut gave us the chills, and Preston said he was nearly drawn to tears sharing. Preston spares no detail in his incredible 10 year journey. Profile: Twitter - @PrestonWilson44 Position: Centerfielder Bats: Right • Throws: Right 6-2, 193lb (188cm, 87kg) Born: July 19, 1974 (Age: 46-049d) in Bamberg, SC us Draft: Drafted by the New York Mets in the 1st round (9th) of the 1992 MLB June Amateur Draft from Bamberg Ehrhardt HS (Bamberg, SC). High School: Bamberg Ehrhardt HS (Bamberg, SC) Debut: May 7, 1998 (Age 23-292d, 14,845th in MLB history) vs. STL 4 AB, 3 H, 0 HR, 1 RBI, 1 SB - 1st player in Marlins history to hit 30 home runs and steal 30 bases in one season. - Led NL in RBI's (141) in 2003 - Played in 2003 All Star game going 1/2. - Played instrumental role in winning 2006 WS while a member of the Stl. Cardinals. Last Game: May 5, 2007 (Age 32-290d) vs. HOU 1 AB, 0 H, 0 HR, 0 RBI, 0 SB Rookie Status: Exceeded rookie limits during 1999 season National Team: us USA (18U) Named Baseball America High School Player of the year in 1992.
Scott realized his dream in 2008 by helping the Philadelphia Phillies win a World Series. The title was the capstone. This episode is about everything before that led to the crowing achievement. Scott Eyre Profile: Twitter - @Scotteyre47 Position: Pitcher Bats: Left • Throws: Left Born: May 30, 1972 (Age: 48-094d) in Inglewood, CA Draft: Drafted by the Texas Rangers in the 9th round of the 1991 MLB June Amateur Draft from College of Southern Idaho (Twin Falls, ID). High School: Cyprus HS (Magna, UT) School: College of Southern Idaho (Twin Falls, ID) Debut: August 1, 1997 (Age 25-063d, 14,724th in MLB history) vs. ANA 4.1 IP, 6 H, 4 SO, 5 BB, 6 ER, L 2005 - led the league in appearances, was a 2.3 WAR player and received MVP votes. Last Game: October 4, 2009 (Age 37-127d) vs. FLA 1.0 IP, 0 H, 1 SO, 1 BB, 0 ER
Bob File burst on to the scene in Toronto in April, 2001. He nasty sinker helped him earn a win in his debut. He's competitiveness in his second outing earned him a regular spot out of the bullpen. We talk about his journey from a D2 slugging Third Basemen to a high leverage Major League relief pitcher. Bob's Profile: Twitter - @BobFile Position: Pitcher Bats: Right • Throws: Right 6-4, 215lb (193cm, 97kg) Born: January 28, 1977 in Philadelphia, PA Draft: Drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 19th round of the 1998 MLB June Amateur Draft from Thomas Jefferson University (Philadelphia, PA). High School: Father Judge HS (Philadelphia, PA) School: Thomas Jefferson University (Philadelphia, PA) Debut: April 14, 2001 (Age 24-076d, 15,447th in MLB history) vs. KCR 0.1 IP, 0 H, 0 SO, 0 BB, 0 ER, W Last Game: September 30, 2004 (Age 27-246d) vs. BAL 1.2 IP, 1 H, 0 SO, 0 BB, 0 ER
Host RoseAnn Sapia circled the bases with SF Giants pitching prospect Trevor McDonald. Trevor was the Giants 11th round pick of the 2019 draft. The 19 year old is quickly ascending the prospect ranking boards. Trevor shared one of the funnies stories in Turn a Pair history. Trevor's Bio: Twitter: @trev_mcdonald18 Position: Starting Pitcher Bats: Right • Throws: Right 6-2, 180lb (188cm, 81kg) Team: San Francisco Giants (minors) Born: February 26, 2001 (Age: 19-179d) in Mobile, AL us Draft: Drafted by the San Francisco Giants in the 11th round of the 2019 MLB June Amateur Draft from George County HS (Lucedale, MS). High School: George County HS (Lucedale, MS) Full Name: Trevor Dale McDonald
Baseball has played a significant role in Randall Thompson's life. Once an undersized high school middle infielder, he grew and gained arm strength in his Junior year. He was good enough to play college ball and eventually sign as a free agent with the Toronto Blue Jays. After being cut by the Jays, he was sitting in the dugout at his alma mater watching a coach saw baseball bats. It was there he came up with the idea to drink beer out of a baseball bat. Yes, you read that right. He talks about how he went from prototype to multi-million dollar company poised to double revenue from 2019 to 2020. Follow Dugout Mugs on Twitter and IG: @dugoutmugs
Logan Hofmann's road to professional baseball is well traveled. The Saskatchewan native spent two years building his profile at Colby Community College. He pitched so well that he his 2019 included an All Star game appearance in the Cape Cod League and a 35th round selection by the Stl. Cardinals. He passed on signing to play at Northwestern State. How did that decision work? You'll have to listen to the episode to find out. Baseball Reference: https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=hofman000log Twitter: @lhofmann11
Caleb debuted in Dodger Stadium on July 25th, 2020 and earned the win after setting down the heart of LA's order. Caleb's path to the show was bumpy and windy. His story is complete with being overlooked out of High School, JUCO, a run with the Hoosiers, an up and down MiLB run and a Major League debut. The day we recorded, Caleb picked up his second win to make him 2-0 on the season.
We sat down with former Canadian National Team star Josh Burgmann for our 100th episode. Josh was a 5th round pick of the Chicago Cubs in 2019 out of the University of Washington. We talked about the NHL's new team the Seattle Kraken, the thrill of playing baseball in Japan, the college experience and being a part of the Cubs organization.
Everyone has a favorite baseball podcast. Our favorite show is 'Two Strike Noise'. Mark and Jeff first worked together while working for the Seattle Mariners. Both had a hand in what the fans and players saw on the scoreboard at Mariners home games. During games they'd talk about the history of the game and make each other laugh. It seemed like a natural fit to start recording. We talk through their journey, about their show and whole bunch of nonsense.
Before Rachel worked with professional hitters, she made a career out of hitting bombs. A 2019 inductee in to the Marshall athletic Hall of Fame, she also played professional softball. She shares her journey and how she went from home run hitting softball star to Chicago Cubs hitting coach. Along the way we talk about ice cream, records (like actual records to be played on record players) and a whole lot more. Have fun getting to know our new friend, Rachel Folden.
Ron grew up a baseball obsessed boy in Gary Indiana. After high school he set off to make a career for himself as an Iron Worker in the Steel Mills. On a whim he made his way to a local baseball field for an MLB tryout. He made such an impression (a literal impression - you'll have to listen to hear how) that the Dodgers signed him shortly after the tryout. This is where the story gets started. Ron talks about the time he broke his neck and was temporarily paralyzed, which forced him out of baseball. He talks of the once in a million meeting that led to his comeback. This all happened before he hit 35 home runs and won ROY in 1983. He even shares the story of his clubhouse dust up with Rickey Henderson.
We welcome in friends from two different podcasts - 4th Inning Podcast and Pulling Tarp Podcast! The 4th Inning crew features 4 teenage baseball players that talk sports, specifically baseball. They're up and coming podcast stars. Bobby Coon (Pulling Tarp Podcast) spent nearly a decade working in MiLB and has made a number of great connections. He invites them on his show to share some incredible war stories. I recommend subscribing to both shows. Twitter - @4thinningpod & ItsRACoon For a special offer on the most incredible baseball bat mug check out http://dugoutmugs.online/TURAPAIR
Joey Wiemer was the 4th overall pick of the Milwaukee Brewers at the historic 2020 MLB draft. The Temperance, MI native was a three sport star in High School. He had D1 football offers, but instead chose to follow his baseball passion at the University of Cincinnati. We talk about his journey, his incredible fashionable hair style while in college and much more.
Energy, Passion and Knowledge are three words that come to mind when describing this episode's guest. Demetre has spent his entire life learning the art of baseball. They say baseball is a mental game. Demetre was fortunate enough to spend time with The Godfather of Sports Psychology, Ken Ravizza. We take deep dive in to their relationship and the impact Ken had on Demetre. On a lighter note, you don't want to miss Demetre's mound visit stories.
Drafted in the 15th round out of Fordham, Kyle quickly became a key member of the Aberdeen Ironbirds bullpen. He recorded the last out of a no hitter, the first in Aberdeen history. Host RoseAnn Sapia uncovers Kyle's favorite sandwich shop is actually owned by her Uncle. It's a small world.
Bryce was a 3 sport star in High School. He turned down a D1 hoops offer to play baseball in college. As a Junior at Old Dominion University, Bryce was known as a 'Swiss Army knife' on the field. What he was not known for is being a pro prospect. That obviously changed. Bryce shares the incredible story of how he went from jack of all trades to master of one.
Ben Braymer is a top 30 prospect in the Nationals organization, but it wasn't always that easy. With no D1 options, he spent two years at JUCO LSU-Eunice. After a dominating performance, he earned a spot on the Auburn Tigers roster. He's made the most of each opportunity and now finds himself on the 40 man roster. A big league debut is on the horizon for the charismatic hurler.
Wil Crowe is the 4th ranked prospect in a loaded Washington Nationals farm system. He's poised to make his big league debut once baseball resumes. The challenge has been staying fit physically and mentally. He shares the unique way that he has been able to maintain his competitive edge. He's actually been so competitive that his wife has had to reign him in at times. Fortunately that fire will prove useful on the diamond.
After being drafted in the 6th round, Jackson spent his first big league season in Hagerstown Maryland. Sounds like the typical Minor League story, right? Well, it's not. Jackson Cluff spent two of his college years on a Mission trip - WITHOUT BASEBALL. He is now the 20th ranked prospect in the Nat's organization. How and why he eloquently shares on the podcast.
Tyler Dyson was given the ball as a true Freshman in the clinching game of the College World Series. Of course he picked up the win. In his first year after being drafted he posted a 1.07 ERA in 9 starts. When challenged, Tyler Dyson rises. The 2019 5th round pick is currently the 17th ranked prospect in the Nats organization.
Cole Freeman was told he's not good enough because of his size. His childhood dream was to play for LSU. His only opportunity came by way of the JUCO route. Per usual, he crushed the opportunity. Not only did he end up at LSU, but he was honored with the iconic #8 as a Senior (LSU tradition). Fortunately for Cole, SIZE HAS NO HEART. There isn't an obstacle that can slow him. Not even the Mexican Army can slow the progress of Cole Freeman (you'll need to listen to understand that reference).
They say some people carry a chip on their shoulder. Adam doesn't so much carry a chip as much as a mountain range. He uses failures experienced at the High School level to motivate his every move. He shares the intimate details of his journey and how it shaped the man he's become today. Anything less than greatness will be viewed as substandard by the supremely confident Blue Jays prospect. You won't want to to miss his story.
Imagine stepping in the box and staring back at you is a 6'6 man with long hair and a mid 90's fastball. Nervous yet? Kendall Williams is only 19 years old, but the Blue Jays 2019 2nd round pick and top 30 prospect is eating batters up at every stop. Even though he's intimidating on the mound, his demeanor off the field could be described as chill, confident and mature. He shares his journey on this week's show.
Josh Zeid's accomplishments include: Team USA U16 Gold Medal, Vanderbilt Pitcher, Big League Pitcher and WBC All Tournament team as a member of Team Israel. Josh has had an incredible run in the game of baseball. He shares fun details about that journey. We also talk about building forts, Disney movies and being a Dad.
Rob Neustrom is a man that only needs the door opened a crack to make his presence known. The best he could get after winning the Gatorade player of the year award in High School was a preferred D1 walk on opportunity. After exceeding expectations the Cape Cod League invited him out on a 'temp' contract. He turned that in to an All Star appearance. Rob now finds himself as one of the top Orioles prospects. You won't want to miss his story of grit and determination.
RoseAnn Sapia sat down with Yankees Hitting Coach Rachel Balkovec. Rachel accomplished a lot in college and as an intern that put her in prime position to climb the baseball coaching ladder. There was one problem. She's a woman. At least that's the problem that some in the game told her. How did she overcome so much to get to where she is today?
Aaron Slegers made his big league debut on August 17, 2017 and over 6 1/3 innings surrendered 2 hits and 2 earned runs. A smooth and sparkling debut was preceded by a jagged and bumpy road to the show. Find out why he played so little his Senior year of High School. Given that, how did he end up on the roster of a D1 team? The season before he enrolled in college, Indiana University was a middle of the pack program. In his final season at IU he helped lead them to the College World Series. He chronicles the mental blocks the team had to hurdle in order to reach unprecedented heights. Sit back, relax and enjoy!
Trevor Larnach, the 20th overall pick in 2018, is the Minnesota Twins 3rd ranked prospect. Baseball has provided a number of 'pinch me' moments for the rising star. He shares his experiences hitting game winning home runs in the College World Series, a trip to the White House and getting advice from some of the greatest baseball players in the game's rich history. We have a special background accompaniment to this episode as well. See how long it takes to pick up the ambient sound that Trevor provides. It'll be sure to put a smile on your face.
Rose Ann Sapia had the opportunity to sit down with Detroit Tigers 2014 1st round pick and current top 30 organizational prospect Derek Hill. Growing up Derek was a well rounded athlete. Baseball wasn't his best sport (he shares what was and it's a first for our show), but he knew baseball gave him the best shot at a career. Find out about his lifelong connection to pro ball and how that helped him mentally prepare at an incredibly young age. We touch on the joy of robbing a home run, Derek's new and improved off field routine and he dives in to his passions outside of baseball.
Ryan Halstead enjoys breakfast burritos, jams out to funk, old school hip hop and reggae, works yoga and meditation in to his workout regimen and throws a baseball wicked hard. He's one cool cucumber. We also cover his 2013 college season. He was the record setting closer on the Indiana University baseball team that made its first College World Series in school history.
David Fry can hit, golf, catch and has a knack for good tv. We’re all stuck inside and David helps by sharing his favorite binge worthy television. David grew up in a Dallas suburb, played his college ball in Natchitoches, Louisiana and now is a member of the Milwaukee Brewers farm system. We talk Dak Prescott, raking in college, hustling pitchers on the golf course and a whole lot more. Spend your quarantine with David and Chris.
Before Hannah was the Phillies Mental Skills coach, she was a D1 basketball and softball player at The University of Tennessee Chattanooga. We talk about her transition from athlete to coach. We discuss her approach to working with professional athletes. Hannah shares enough information that one should have a notebook and pen at the ready as her teachings will translate to every day life. We also talk about her weekly Mental Sweat Monday segment, Honey the dog and she shares the moment that she'd most like to relive.
Ryan Fineman and host Chris MacLean are both Indiana University alums. They reminisce over Kilroys, Sink the Biz at Nick's, candy stripes and the rise of Indiana baseball. Ryan was the subject of a viral video at the end of an NCAA Regional game against Louisville. He shares the details as far as why things escalated and what was said during the scrum. We both agree the called strike was definitely BALL FOUR!
Before Declan Cronin was drafted by the White Sox, he won a New York state basketball title, graduated from Holy Cross, was a four time member of the Patriot League Academic Honor Roll and was published in Time Magazine. Declan has a passion for Soviet history. That passion stems from learning about his Father's time in the FBI working surveillance on the Soviet's. Declan told us all about his offseason. He's worked hard on his slider and curve. He's ready to out pace his incredible 2019 season with an even better 2020.
At 17, Ryan Pepiot had a decision to make regarding academics and athletics. He had the option to hurl the pigskin and be chased by 300 pounders or hurl a rock really hard. Thankfully for Butler University he chose baseball. He went on to break the school's all time strike out record. As a result, the Dodgers drafted him 102nd overall in the 2019 draft. In addition to his athletic accomplishments, Ryan discusses his extensive jersey collection, Indianapolis sports, Ballet, his former role as the CFO of a company and Dominican sugar cane. Find out how we weave that all in to our conversation.
DJ was drafted by the SF Giants in the 9th round of the 2013 draft. He made his big league debut in the spring of 2018. Unfortunately his big league run was cut short by illness, an injury and subsequent lackluster performance. He spent 2019 in Independent Baseball. Not willing to give up on his big league dream, he hatched a plan; figure out how to increase his velocity, focus on nutrition and network. He's now in big league Spring Training with the Tampa Bay Rays. He shares the details of his incredible story right here.
Bryant Packard was drafted in the 5th round of the 2019 MLB Draft. He's already ascended to the top 30 prospect list for the Detroit Tigers. His journey required a lot of stops along the way. Guest host RoseAnn Sapia discusses that journey with Bryant. They discuss the origin of his name, trips to foreign lands, that infamous eating contest and a whole lot more.
Ernie was a two sport athlete in Rochester, NY. When he wasn’t terrorizing pitchers, he was slapping one timers past goaltenders. Eventually he made his way to Virginia where he starred for the baseball team and ate up ACC pitching. The Indians rewarded him by making him their 4th round pick in 2017. Since becoming a pro, Ernie has won titles with Mahoning Valley and Columbus. He's on the door step of the big leagues. In this episode, he shares the details of his journey, his favorite Buffalo Bills tailgating stories (GET THE TABLES), fishing, golf and a MLB The Show.
Before Josiah Gray was the 4th ranked Dodgers prospect and the 67th ranked prospect in baseball, he was an under recruited two way player from New Rochelle, NY. As a sophomore in college at DII Le Moyne, he was primarily the starting shortstop. After playing 8 games at short, he would hustle to the mound to close games. He would spend the summer between his Sophomore and Junior seasons playing in the Cape Cod Summer League. This is where his journey takes a significant turn. This is why you need to hear his story.