Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Chasing Baseball Dreams
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35: All The Smoke's Matt Barnes | Why Parents Push Kids Too Hard in Youth Sports | 30 oct. 2026 | 01:00:22 | |
How hard should you push your son in sports? And how do you know when you're pushing too hard? Matt Barnes spent 14 seasons in the NBA, won a championship with the Golden State Warriors, and helped build All The Smoke into one of the biggest names in sports podcasting. But some of his strongest opinions have nothing to do with professional basketball. They're about parents and what's happening in youth sports. In this episode of the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast, Bobby Minor sits down with Matt to talk about raising his own sons, why he waited until his twins were ready to take training seriously, and why he believes too many parents are turning their kids' sports into a job before they're ready. Matt also shares a pretty incredible story about Kobe Bryant training his twins, explains why he wouldn't make a 10-year-old specialize in one sport, and talks about the pressure parents put on kids who aren't developing as quickly as their teammates. In this episode, we talk about: ⚾ Why Matt believes parents are one of the biggest problems in youth sports 🏀 Why he waited until his twins were 13–14 before pushing them into serious training 🔥 What Kobe Bryant told Matt's sons about their basketball dreams ⚾ Why he believes 10-year-olds should still be playing multiple sports 💪 Why young athletes need to learn how to compete for playing time instead of immediately changing teams 👨👦 How Matt handled coaching his own sons without giving them special treatment 💰 Why he believes youth sports have become too focused on making money 🏆 What Matt learned about Kobe Bryant as a teammate, friend, and father ⚾ Why he launched All The Smoke Baseball and what he hopes to bring to the game ❤️ What he hopes his sons remember about him, regardless of how far they go in sports One thing that really stood out to me was how Matt handled his twins' development. He knew exactly what it took to play professionally. He had the experience, the connections, and the ability to start training them seriously at a young age. But he waited. He wanted them to show him they loved the game enough to put in the work themselves. That's something worth thinking about if you're a baseball parent trying to decide when to push your son, when to back off, and how much of this journey should be driven by him. Whether your son is playing 9U travel baseball or getting ready for high school, there's a lot in this conversation that will make you think. ABOUT THE PODCAST The Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast is hosted by Bobby Minor, a former Division I baseball player, longtime coach, and college baseball dad. Through conversations with professional athletes, coaches, and people who've lived the game, Bobby helps baseball parents think through the decisions they're making for their sons. Subscribe for new episodes and conversations about player development, travel baseball, recruiting, and raising young athletes. 🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. #MattBarnes #YouthSports #BaseballParents | |||
| 34: Mexican League MVP Nick Torres | Playing Time, Late Recruiting & What Baseball Parents Get Wrong | 28 oct. 2026 | 01:10:24 | |
What if your son isn't getting playing time because he needs to get better? And what if his college baseball opportunities don't come until the spring of his senior year? 2025 Mexican Baseball League MVP Nick Torres joins Bobby Minor on the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast to share his journey from an overlooked high school player to a fourth-round MLB Draft pick, professional baseball in Mexico, and an MVP season that earned him another opportunity with the New York Yankees organization. Nick's junior year of high school, he barely played and was used only as a pitcher. His senior year, he won conference Player of the Year. He didn't receive his offer from Cal Poly until late April of his senior year. After more than a decade in professional baseball, Nick has plenty to say about what young players need to develop and what parents should be paying attention to. In this episode, we cover:
If you're raising a young baseball player and wondering whether he's on the right team, developing fast enough, or falling behind other kids his age, this conversation is worth your time. 🎙️ Host: Bobby Minor | Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast ⚾ Guest: Nick Torres | 2025 Liga Mexicana de Béisbol MVP 📱 Follow Nick on Instagram: @n_torres93 #ChasingBaseballDreams #BaseballParents #TravelBaseball #NickTorres #YouthBaseball #CollegeBaseball | |||
| 33: Party Animals' Mikey Ballard | Overlooked Recruit to 81,000 Fans | Banana Ball | 20 oct. 2026 | 00:42:19 | |
From an undersized high school player with almost no recruiting interest to playing Banana Ball in front of 81,000 fans. Party Animals infielder Mikey Ballard's baseball journey didn't follow the path most parents expect. On this episode of the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast, Bobby Minor sits down with Mikey to talk about his journey from Lake Mary High School to Division II Eckerd College, his transfer to Division I Louisiana Tech, independent professional baseball, and eventually the Party Animals. Mikey shares how he nearly gave up on playing college baseball before one final showcase changed his opportunities. He also explains why playing time mattered more than the name on his jersey, how growing up undersized affected his recruiting, and why his parents' simple advice, "Be Mike," still matters to him today. In this episode, we cover:
If you're a baseball parent wondering whether your son is falling behind, whether he's on the right team, or whether a Division I offer should be the ultimate goal, Mikey's story gives you plenty to think about. The decisions you make for your son should be based on what actually helps him develop, not what looks impressive to everybody else. 🎙️ Host: Bobby Minor | Chasing Baseball Dreams ⚾ Guest: Mikey Ballard | Party Animals, Banana Ball 📱 Follow Mikey: Instagram @michael_ballard14 | TikTok @mike.b14 🔔 Subscribe to the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast for conversations with professional players, coaches, and baseball parents about the decisions that matter throughout the baseball journey. #BananaBall #PartyAnimals #BaseballParents #TravelBaseball #CollegeBaseball | |||
| 32: MLB Vet Jay Jackson | Why Are Parents Flying 8-Year-Olds Across the Country for Baseball? | 17 oct. 2026 | 00:39:14 | |
Why are baseball parents flying 8-year-olds across the country for travel baseball? Former MLB pitcher Jay Jackson questions the youth baseball rankings, expensive tournaments, and pressure that have become so common at an early age. Jay spent 17 years playing professional baseball, including time with six Major League teams and in Japan. In this episode of the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast, he joins Bobby Minor to share what he learned about player development, choosing the right opportunities, handling disappointment, and helping young players enjoy the game. In this episode we cover:
Jay also shares the years he spent waiting for his Major League opportunity, what happened when he didn't make Toronto's Opening Day roster despite a strong spring training, and why he created the S.M.I.L.E. Zone to help young players with the mental side of baseball. If you're a baseball parent trying to decide which teams, tournaments, rankings, and opportunities are actually worth your money, this conversation will give you plenty to think about before you spend another dollar. 🎙️ Host: Bobby Minor ⚾ Guest: Jay Jackson, former MLB pitcher and founder of the S.M.I.L.E. Zone 🎧 Podcast: Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast Connect with Jay Jackson: Instagram: @jaxland58 S.M.I.L.E. Zone community: https://smilezone.app/ 🔔 Subscribe to Chasing Baseball Dreams on YouTube so you don't miss future interviews with Major League players, coaches, and baseball parents. You can also listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. #JayJackson #YouthBaseball #TravelBaseball #BaseballParents #ChasingBaseballDreams | |||
| 31: Brian Jacobus | TCU Commit's Dad: Why High School Baseball Came First | 15 oct. 2026 | 00:42:49 | |
Ben Jacobus started in center field, hit leadoff as a freshman, and helped Corona del Sol win the 2025 Arizona 6A state championship. Now he's committed to TCU. His dad, Brian Jacobus, played professional baseball after being drafted by the San Diego Padres. He's coached high school baseball, run travel baseball organizations, and experienced the recruiting process firsthand as a parent. One of the biggest takeaways from our conversation? Brian built Ben's baseball development around preparing him for high school, and he believes there are things high school baseball provides that travel ball has a hard time replicating. In this episode of the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast, Brian shares the decisions they made along the way, including some he'd handle differently. In this episode we cover:
Brian also shares something he wishes he'd emphasized earlier in Ben's development, even with all his years of experience playing and coaching baseball. If you're spending money on travel baseball, preparing your son for high school, or starting to think about college recruiting, this conversation will give you plenty to think about before making your next decision. 🎙️ Host: Bobby Minor ⚾ Guest: Brian Jacobus 🎧 Podcast: Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast Subscribe for conversations with players, coaches, and baseball people who can help parents think more clearly about the decisions they're making for their sons. #ChasingBaseballDreams #TravelBaseball #BaseballParents | |||
| 30: Shane Greene | MLB Players Feared Their Dads More Than the Media | 15 oct. 2026 | 00:51:12 | |
Some Major League players were more afraid of talking to their dads after a bad game than facing the media. Former MLB All-Star Shane Greene saw it firsthand. And he has a lot to say about what baseball parents need to understand. Shane spent 10 seasons in the big leagues with teams including the Yankees, Tigers, and Braves. But his journey was anything but typical. He didn't pitch a single varsity inning as a sophomore, received just one college offer, underwent Tommy John surgery, and took the JUCO route before being drafted in the 15th round. He eventually became an MLB All-Star in 2019. In this episode, we cover:
Shane also shares what helped him through injuries, setbacks, and the pressure of professional baseball, along with his advice for parents who are worried their sons are falling behind. If you're a baseball parent trying to figure out what actually matters for your son's development, this is a conversation worth hearing. 🎙️ Host: Bobby Minor 🎧 Watch or listen to the full Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast episode on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. Subscribe so you don't miss future conversations with people who've experienced the game at the highest levels. #ChasingBaseballDreams #BaseballParents #ShaneGreene | |||
| 29: Savannah Bananas' Coach RAC | Should You Miss Church for Travel Baseball? | 14 oct. 2026 | 00:39:52 | |
Your son's team plays tournaments on Sundays. Your family wants to be in church. And you're worried that missing games could cost him playing time or put him behind. How do you handle that? Savannah Bananas star RobertAnthony Cruz, better known as Coach RAC, joins Bobby Minor on the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast for a conversation about faith, family, and the decisions baseball parents face. Coach RAC shares his journey from UC Riverside to the Washington Nationals, the heartbreak of being released from professional baseball, and how his faith helped him find purpose beyond the game. We also talk about Sandlot Revival, the faith-based movement that grew from a Savannah Bananas team Bible study into worship nights in more than 20 cities. In this episode we cover:
Coach RAC also shares his personal testimony, what fatherhood has taught him, and why his biggest accomplishments on the baseball field don't compare to what matters most in his life. Whether you're a Christian family struggling with Sunday tournaments or a parent trying to keep baseball in perspective, this conversation will give you plenty to think about before your next season. 🎙️ Host: Bobby Minor 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with players, coaches, and baseball people who can help you think through the decisions you're making for your son. #ChasingBaseballDreams #CoachRAC #SavannahBananas #TravelBaseball #FaithAndBaseball | |||
| 28: 90% Development, 10% Games? | Team Moms' Will Armijo on Travel Baseball | 14 oct. 2026 | 00:45:02 | |
Six games in three days. That's the kind of schedule that makes Will Armijo question what we're doing in youth baseball. Will believes youth baseball should be 90% focused on development and only 10% on playing games. That's a pretty strong opinion coming from someone who runs a baseball academy. Will is a former Division II pitcher at Grand Canyon University who went through Tommy John surgery and some serious setbacks during his playing career. Today, he's the CEO and co-founder of Legendary Prep Academy in Scottsdale, Arizona, which was featured on the Paramount+ reality series Team Moms: Baseball. In this episode we cover:
Will also shares what it was like growing up playing baseball in New Mexico, including a high school coach who told him he'd never be good enough to play beyond high school. If you're spending thousands on travel baseball, considering a prep academy, or wondering whether your son needs to play more games to keep up, this conversation will give you plenty to think about before making your next decision. 🎙️ Host: Bobby Minor Subscribe to Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more conversations about the decisions baseball parents face. #ChasingBaseballDreams #TravelBaseball #BaseballParents | |||
| 27: Ty Buttrey | He Got Cut From Travel Ball, Made MLB, Then Walked Away | 14 oct. 2026 | 00:45:12 | |
Ty Buttrey got cut from a travel baseball team, was sent down to JV in high school, and still became a fourth-round draft pick who made it to the big leagues. Then, in 2021, he walked away from baseball. What surprised me most during our conversation was hearing Ty admit that he never really loved pitching, even though he loved playing baseball. Ty spent years battling performance anxiety, struggling with his mechanics, and pushing himself to get better. He eventually reached the Major Leagues with the Los Angeles Angels, but getting there didn't make those struggles disappear. In this episode of the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast, Ty and I talk about his journey from getting cut to pitching in the big leagues, what he learned about himself along the way, and what baseball parents can take from his experience. In this episode we cover:
One of the most interesting parts of our conversation came when Ty talked about how much he loved playing baseball but never really enjoyed the part of the game that became his profession. He also shares what parents should pay attention to when their sons start putting too much pressure on themselves, and why he'd encourage parents to help their sons develop interests outside of baseball. If you're a baseball parent with a son who's serious about playing at the next level, this is a conversation worth hearing. Especially if you're trying to figure out how hard to push him, what kind of training he needs, and whether he's still enjoying the game. 🎙️ Host: Bobby Minor ⚾ Guest: Ty Buttrey, Former MLB Pitcher | Los Angeles Angels 🎧 Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast Subscribe for more conversations with former Major Leaguers, professional coaches, and people who've lived the game, with lessons that can help you make better baseball decisions for your son. #BaseballParents #YouthBaseball #TravelBaseball | |||
| 26: Corey Hart | He Coached Vlad Jr. and Yelich. Here's What Parents Get Wrong About Hitting | 14 oct. 2026 | 00:36:53 | |
Your son looks great hitting in the cage. Then he gets into a game and can't buy a hit. So what's the answer? More hitting lessons? Change his swing? Find a different instructor? Corey Hart spent 18 years coaching professional hitters in the Milwaukee Brewers, Miami Marlins, and Toronto Blue Jays organizations. He's worked with hitters like Christian Yelich and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and he's now an assistant softball coach at Syracuse University. In this episode of the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast, Corey and I talk about what parents need to understand before spending more money on hitting instruction. We get into the mental side of hitting, what separates good hitters from great ones, and why some of the advice parents give from the stands might be making things harder for their sons. In this episode we cover:
Corey also shares what he believes separates players who eventually reach the big leagues from those with similar talent who never get there. If you're a baseball parent spending money on hitting lessons, this conversation will give you a better idea of what to look for in an instructor and what actual progress should look like. And the next time your son steps into the batter's box, you might want to think twice before yelling another swing tip. 🎙️ Host: Bobby Minor ⚾ Guest: Corey Hart, Former Professional Hitting Coach | Syracuse University Softball 🎧 Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast Subscribe for more conversations with former Major Leaguers, professional coaches, and people who've lived the game, with lessons that can help you make better baseball decisions for your son. #BaseballParents #YouthBaseball #HittingLessons | |||
| 25: Coach Ferber | What Baseball Parents Get Wrong About Travel Ball, Rankings & Development | 10 oct. 2026 | 01:09:45 | |
Are baseball parents spending thousands of dollars on travel teams, national rankings, and private lessons without knowing whether any of it is actually helping their son? Coach Jason Ferber, better known as Coach Ferber on Instagram, joins Bobby Minor on the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast for a conversation every travel baseball parent needs to hear. A former San Diego Padres scout who has worked with some of the country's top young baseball players, Coach Ferber shares what he's learned about player development, youth baseball rankings, recruiting, and the decisions parents face as their sons grow in the game. We get into why he thinks cutting 6U and 7U players is ridiculous, what parents should investigate before joining an expensive national team, and why locking a 9-year-old into one position can hurt his long-term development. He also shares the story of an overlooked young player who became one of the country's top prospects, explains what separates a good hitting instructor from someone who's just selling a swing philosophy, and gives parents practical advice on finding the right coach. And when it comes to college recruiting, Coach Ferber explains why he'd start with local college programs before spending thousands chasing exposure across the country. In this episode:
Episode Chapters 00:00 Meet Coach Jason Ferber Follow Coach Ferber: Follow Chasing Baseball Dreams: If you're a baseball parent trying to make the best decisions for your son, subscribe to the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast for conversations with experienced coaches, former Major Leaguers, and people who know what it takes to develop baseball players. #TravelBaseball #YouthBaseball #BaseballParents #PlayerDevelopment #CoachFerber | |||
| 24: No. 1 in Texas | What Landon Bonner’s Dad Would Do Differently | 09 oct. 2026 | 00:41:14 | |
Landon Bonner is committed to the University of Oklahoma and ranked No. 1 overall in Texas and No. 11 nationally by Perfect Game for the 2028 class. His dad, Marcus, will still tell you they spent money chasing exposure before Landon needed it. Some of that money would’ve been better spent helping him get better. In this episode of the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast, Marcus and I talk about what he’d do differently if Landon were 10 again. We also get into the college decision. Oklahoma wasn’t initially in Landon’s top five, and Marcus explains what the coaches showed their family that set OU apart from the other schools they spoke with. In this episode we cover: - The money Marcus would rethink spending on showcases and exposure at 10, 11, and 12. - What made hitting instruction worth paying for, and why going to another lesson wasn’t always the answer. - When they started focusing on recruiting and how much Marcus thinks Perfect Game rankings factored into the interest Landon received. - Why the Bonners looked back five years to see how many freshmen each program actually played. - How NIL factored into the decision without becoming more important than an opportunity to get on the field.- The two years of Landon’s ABs Oklahoma’s coaches broke down and the development plan they laid out for him. - What Marcus would change about the car ride home after a bad game, and how he learned to let Landon come to him. Before you follow another family’s recruiting plan, hear what this family would change about its own. 🎙️ Host: Bobby Minor ⚾ Guest: Marcus Bonner, father of Oklahoma commit Landon Bonner 🎧 Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast Watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other podcast platforms. Subscribe for more conversations about the decisions you’re making for your son. #ChasingBaseballDreams #BaseballParents #CollegeBaseballRecruiting #TravelBaseball #LandonBonner | |||
| 23: Team Moms | Joey & Trina Taylor Respond to the Backlash | 08 oct. 2026 | 01:03:46 | |
Episode description Joey and Trina Taylor have an answer for people who watched 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐌𝐨𝐦𝐬 and decided they weren’t real baseball parents. The couple joins Bobby Minor on the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast to talk about the criticism and the years at the ballpark that came before reality TV. They also explain why they think the show portrayed them accurately, even though viewers didn’t see the whole story. The Taylors get into the cast drama, including the confrontation Joey says never aired. They also walk through some big decisions for their family. Trina explains how their daughter’s dance opportunities factored into the Arizona move, and both parents share what they’re learning as Jett takes more responsibility for his baseball development. In this episode we cover: - Is Team Moms scripted? What Joey and Trina say about the drama and the editing - Nina’s barbecue and why the singing at the field upset them - How they’ve tried to keep disagreements between parents from affecting the boys - Jett’s regional championship home run and what reaching Williamsport meant to their family - Why Joey challenges the comparison between local Little League teams and national travel rosters - Their move from Washington to Arizona and why they chose Legendary Prep Academy - Watching for burnout, letting Jett own his development, and handling struggles against older players For a parent wondering how hard to push, there’s a moment worth hearing: Joey describes Jett going outside to hit without being asked and without filming it. Trina is seeing him take more interest in his nutrition. They explain what those choices tell them while keeping the conversation open about needing a break. 🎙️ Host: Bobby Minor ⚾ Guests: Joey and Trina Taylor from 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐌𝐨𝐦𝐬 🔔 Subscribe to the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast for conversations that help baseball parents think through the decisions they’re making for their sons. Watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other podcast platforms. #TeamMoms #BaseballParents #TravelBaseball #LittleLeague #ChasingBaseballDreams | |||
| 22: Jorden Hussein | Stop Chasing the “Right” Baseball Path | JUCO, Indie Ball & Banana Ball | 01 oct. 2026 | 00:39:30 | |
Texas Tailgators shortstop Jorden Hussein never planned on playing Banana Ball. His path went from North Shore High School in Houston to Crowder College, Division I baseball at Little Rock, two seasons of independent ball, the Party Animals, and now the Texas Tailgators. At several points, the next opportunity looked nothing like what he originally pictured. That’s exactly why I wanted him on the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast. Jorden talks about why he chose JUCO when he had a Division I opportunity, why parents need to be realistic about where their son actually is as a player, and what his own parents got right throughout his baseball career. He also gives one of the better analogies I’ve heard about what a player needs from his dad after a bad game. We also get into Banana Ball. Is the baseball real? Are the games scripted? And after playing inside it, does Jorden believe Banana Ball is actually here to stay? His answer might surprise some traditional baseball people. In this episode we cover:
Jorden’s path is a good reminder for baseball parents: your son’s best opportunity may not have the name, logo, division, or path you pictured. Pay attention to where he can play, where he can get better, and where people genuinely want him. 🎙️ Host: Bobby Minor Subscribe for conversations with players, coaches and baseball people who can help parents think more clearly about the decisions they’re making for their sons. #ChasingBaseballDreams #BaseballParents #BananaBall | |||
| 21: Former MLB Player Aaron Barrett | Youth Baseball Development, Arm Health & the FOMO Trap | 24 sept. 2026 | 00:51:55 | |
Baseball parents spend a lot of time worrying about winning, playing time and whether their son is falling behind. Former MLB pitcher Aaron Barrett says one of the biggest things parents worry about is FOMO. Trying to keep up with what everybody else is doing instead of looking at where your own kid is right now. Aaron has seen player development from just about every angle. He pitched parts of four seasons with the Washington Nationals, made it back to the Major Leagues after more than four years away following Tommy John surgery and a fractured humerus, and was part of Washington’s 2019 World Series team. After his playing career, he moved into player development with the Philadelphia Phillies. In his first season managing the Single-A Clearwater Threshers, his team finished 74-55 and Aaron was named Baseball America’s Single-A Manager of the Year and Florida State League Manager of the Year. In this episode of the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast, Aaron and I get into what actually separates players as they move up, why consistency and handling failure matter so much, what development should look like at younger ages, and why playing catch still matters. We also talk about youth pitching and arm health, how parents should vet coaches and instructors, multi-sport athletes, baseball IQ, analytics, player ownership, Aaron’s four MLB Draft experiences, his incredible comeback to the big leagues, and some of his favorite Major League memories. Aaron also explains why parents need to ask more questions before handing their son’s development over to somebody else, especially when it comes to pitching and training. His closing advice is simple: use the information and experience available to you, then bring the decision back to your child and what’s best for him right now. Development isn’t linear. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Aaron Barrett’s MLB career, comeback and move into managing 02:05 What separates players in professional baseball 05:08 Baseball IQ and how players are being developed today 08:17 Development vs. winning 11:31 What development should look like for young players 14:24 Why playing catch still matters 17:17 When parents should stop trying to fix every struggle 19:35 Helping a young player through an injury 22:25 What parents should ask about pitching and arm care 25:19 Aaron on youth arm injuries and Dr. Andrews 26:48 Aaron’s wild MLB Draft story 29:10 Growing up as a multi-sport athlete 31:02 When parents should hand ownership back to the player 35:28 Data, analytics and paralysis by analysis 39:37 In-and-Out with Aaron Barrett 40:20 What baseball parents worry about too much 41:38 What he’d tell the parents of his 12-year-old self 42:34 The toughest hitter Aaron faced in the Major Leagues 43:39 Aaron’s favorite baseball memories 50:41 Favorite baseball movie and his upcoming documentary 53:53 Aaron’s final advice for baseball parents | |||
| 20: Lou Collier | Reclassing, Playing Up & What Baseball Parents Get Wrong | 18 sept. 2026 | 00:53:51 | |
Is your son dominating youth baseball because he’s developing, or because the competition isn’t challenging him anymore? Former MLB player Lou Collier joins Bobby Minor on the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast to talk about reclassing, playing up and the decisions behind his son Cam Collier’s path to the MLB Draft.
Before the Cincinnati Reds selected Cam 18th overall, his family made the decision to have him graduate early and play junior college baseball against older competition. Lou explains what he saw in Cam, how he used feedback from experienced baseball people and why the decision involved much more than his son’s ability on the field. We also get into what would’ve told him they’d moved too soon.
That leads to a conversation about reclassifying in the other direction. Lou shares his concerns about older players dominating younger competition and what happens when the game finally gets tougher. He also makes an important distinction: challenging a player doesn’t mean putting him at a level he isn’t physically ready to handle.
We talk about the challenge of being both a coach and a baseball dad, including what Lou learned about backing off as Cam matured. Later, he explains why a younger player needing encouragement isn’t the same as an older teenager refusing to put in the work his goals require.
For parents thinking about baseball training and player development, Lou gets specific about infield fundamentals, learning multiple positions and what working alongside Ron Washington taught him about instruction. He also discusses baseball access for young African American players, his work with MLB Develops and the training behind the Hillboys program. His explanation of practice reps versus game reps gives parents something to consider before filling another weekend with games.
Cam’s path gives us a real decision to examine. The question for your family is what your son needs, how you’re evaluating that and whether his baseball environment is preparing him for tougher competition.
Timestamps
00:00 Meet Lou Collier, former MLB player and Cam Collier’s dad 02:25 Being a baseball dad without always being the coach 05:02 Why Cam Collier reclassified and played junior college baseball 10:50 What would’ve told Lou they moved too soon 12:19 College baseball beyond the “D1 or bust” mentality 13:41 Infield fundamentals and learning multiple positions 17:05 What Ron Washington taught Lou about infield development 19:47 Recognizing when a player needs tougher competition 20:47 When should your son take ownership of his baseball goals? 23:09 Growing up playing baseball on Chicago’s South Side 25:31 African American players, baseball costs and access 31:30 MLB Develops, Dream Series and Breakthrough Series 36:38 Reclassing down and the temporary age advantage 41:52 What separates players who keep getting better 43:10 The toughest MLB pitchers Lou faced 44:19 Favorite ballparks and playing back home in Chicago 46:41 In-and-Out with Lou Collier 48:29 A Wrigley Field home run and a favorite baseball movie 50:44 Lou’s message to parents: Be honest about your son 52:54 The Hillboys and Lou’s approach to youth baseball training 55:22 Practice reps versus game reps 56:31 Closing thoughts
Subscribe to the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss the next episode.
#BaseballParents #YouthBaseball #ChasingBaseballDreams | |||
| 19: Niko Goodrum | What Baseball Parents Rush...Travel Ball, Development & MLB Lessons | 17 sept. 2026 | 00:49:54 | |
Former MLB player Niko Goodrum joins Bobby Minor on the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast to talk youth baseball, travel baseball, player development, versatility, mindset, and what parents may be rushing too soon. Niko was a second-round pick out of high school and played seven seasons in Major League Baseball with the Minnesota Twins, Detroit Tigers, Houston Astros, Tampa Bay Rays and Los Angeles Angels. One of the most surprising parts of his journey: he didn’t grow up playing travel baseball. He played local summer ball, attended a few showcases and still developed into a Major League player. For baseball parents, some of Niko’s strongest advice comes when he talks development. He says he wouldn’t rush power, exit velocity, throwing velocity or strength with young players. Niko was 168 pounds when he was drafted and eventually played at 220. Physical development comes with time, but the skill of actually playing baseball still has to be there. Niko also talks about when a player may be ready for travel ball, why parents should watch how much their son is driving his own development, and why decisions should fit the individual kid instead of what everybody else is doing. We also get into how versatility helped Niko reach and stay in the Major Leagues, playing multiple sports, becoming a switch hitter in high school, professional baseball in Korea, the moment he knew his playing career was over, and what separates talented players who keep moving from those who stall out. If you’re a baseball parent trying to make better decisions about travel baseball, training, strength, player development, versatility or your son’s long-term path, this conversation is for you. TIMESTAMPS
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| 18: Lewis Brinson | What Baseball Parents Get Wrong About Stats, Pressure & Development | 16 sept. 2026 | 01:08:09 | |
Former MLB outfielder and first-round pick Lewis Brinson joins Bobby Minor on the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast for a conversation every youth baseball and travel baseball parent should hear. Brinson was selected 29th overall by the Texas Rangers in the 2012 MLB Draft out of Coral Springs High School. He went on to play six seasons in the Major Leagues with the Milwaukee Brewers, Miami Marlins and San Francisco Giants, and his career later took him to Japan and Mexico. In this episode, Lewis talks about the parts of the baseball journey parents rarely get to see. He explains why parents can put way too much stock in batting average, exit velocity and other metrics at 9U and 10U, what actually mattered in his development as a young player, and why youth baseball shouldn’t start feeling like a business before baseball is actually a player’s job. Lewis also gives an inside look at what being a top MLB prospect really means. More attention. More expectations. More opportunities to fail. And, sometimes, more pressure than a young player knows how to handle. He shares what he learned after being traded by the Rangers in the Jonathan Lucroy deal, becoming a centerpiece of the Christian Yelich trade to Miami, and returning home with enormous expectations placed on him. The conversation also gets into hitting development, why every kid shouldn’t be taught to swing like Aaron Judge, how parents can get more value from private lessons, what longtime big leaguers have in common beyond talent, and what a parent should say on the ride home after a bad game. If you’re raising a young baseball player and trying to make better decisions about travel baseball, player development, hitting lessons, youth baseball stats, pressure, expectations and the long-term journey, there’s a lot in this one. Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast with Bobby Minor Timestamps00:00 Lewis Brinson joins Chasing Baseball Dreams | |||
| Episode #17 College Baseball Recruiting: What Coaches See vs. What Parents Live | 15 sept. 2026 | 00:18:18 | |
A coach can help a player get recruited. A parent has to live with everything attached to that decision.
In this solo episode of the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast, Bobby Minor talks about the side of the college baseball recruiting process he didn’t fully understand until his own son went through it. He had already coached players and helped them through recruiting. Going through it as a dad gave him a completely different view of the same process.
For baseball parents, recruiting goes way beyond whether a player is talented enough or whether a college coach likes him. There’s the financial side. Distance from home. Playing time. Roster competition. Coaching changes. Injuries. Knowing whether a school really wants your son or is simply keeping him on the board.
And then there’s the part nobody can make easy for you: helping your son make the decision without making it for him.
Bobby talks about college baseball recruiting, JUCO baseball, scholarship and financial decisions, roster math, college coach interest, travel baseball, playing time, and the pressure the recruiting process can put on the relationship between a parent and his son.
He also shares why getting an offer isn’t the finish line, how difficult it can be to interpret what college coaches really mean, and the unexpected way Julian’s eventual college opportunity started with a conversation inside a Fort Worth gym.
If you’re looking for college baseball recruiting tips for parents, especially as your son moves through high school baseball and starts hearing from college programs, this episode will help you think beyond simply getting the offer.
TIMESTAMPS
00:01 Why recruiting feels different when you’re the parent 02:16 When the coaching staff leaves two weeks before school 04:36 The waiting, comparison, and financial pressure parents carry 07:02 Roster math and the real path to playing time 09:25 Letting your son own the decision 11:14 What college coach interest really means 13:42 What recruiting costs emotionally 16:07 How Julian actually got recruited
If your son is going through the recruiting process right now, leave your biggest question in the comments.
#CollegeBaseballRecruiting #BaseballParents #TravelBaseball | |||
| Episode #16 Aiden McIntyre | The Expensive Mistake Baseball Parents Keep Making | 11 sept. 2026 | 00:59:42 | |
Aiden McIntyre was benched in high school, cut in college, and still drafted by the Oakland A’s. How much are baseball parents spending because they’re afraid their son is falling behind?
The former professional pitcher and baseball YouTuber joins Bobby Minor on the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast to talk about late-blooming players, travel baseball costs, and the pressure parents feel to keep up.
Aiden was a 5-foot-2 high school freshman who struggled throughout high school. He transferred three times in college before being selected in the 2018 MLB Draft. He shares what his parents got right during those difficult years and why being one of the best players at 12 tells you so little about what happens next.
We get into private pitching lessons, $500 baseball bats, youth player rankings, and baseball showcases. Aiden explains why he wouldn’t consider a showcase before 16, why players need something to show when they get there, and how the fear of falling behind pushes families into spending they don’t need.
For pitchers and their parents, Aiden walks through the development that took him from the mid-80s to the mid-90s, his experience with Driveline, and how baseball analytics helped him understand his strengths. He also explains why he’d rather face a hitter swinging for the fences than a scrappy hitter who refuses to strike out.
We talk about minor league baseball, the injuries that helped him decide to walk away, and how a job at vidIQ helped him build a full-time YouTube career.
And stay for his story about giving up eight runs without getting out of the first inning. A Dodgers scout was watching. What that scout told him afterward is something worth remembering the next time your son has a bad game.
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Meet Aiden McIntyre 01:47 Late bloomers and judging players too early 05:04 Chasing big dreams while being honest about your ability 08:58 Supporting your son without adding performance pressure 14:31 Pitching development: how Aiden reached the mid-90s 17:35 Pitch design, baseball analytics, and the hitters he hated facing 22:31 Minor league baseball, injuries, and knowing when to stop 27:06 From professional pitcher to full-time baseball YouTuber 31:28 Youth baseball costs: $500 bats and private lessons 34:21 When should players attend baseball showcases? 36:38 FOMO, falling behind, and the pressure to “make it” 44:20 Why Aiden opposes ranking young baseball players 46:15 Your son doesn’t have to be the number-one player 49:11 Looking ahead to the Field of Dreams event 51:20 In-and-Out: pitching velocity, statistics, and handling failure 53:28 Going 0-for-5 and still being a great teammate 55:02 What a Dodgers scout saw in Aiden’s worst outing 58:18 Favorite baseball memories and a first-year Triple-A win 59:36 Wrigley, Fenway, and favorite MLB ballparks 1:01:44 Where to follow Aiden McIntyre
What’s one thing you’ve felt pressured to pay for because you were told your son would fall behind? Tell us in the comments.
Subscribe to the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts for more conversations that help baseball parents make better decisions for their sons.
#BaseballParents #YouthBaseball #AidenMcIntyre | |||
| Episode #15 Josh Reddick | What Youth Baseball Parents Get Wrong: Talent, Exposure & Development | 10 sept. 2026 | 00:30:15 | |
Josh Reddick was cut from his middle-school baseball team two years in a row. He went on to play 13 seasons in Major League Baseball, win a Gold Glove, collect more than 1,100 hits, and win a World Series.
So what should baseball parents take from a story like his?
In this episode of the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast, Josh Reddick talks about youth baseball development, travel baseball, exposure, hitting, positional development, slumps, routines, and why parents shouldn't decide what a young player can become based on what he looks like at 10, 11, or 12 years old.
Josh explains why reps matter more than where your son plays, when exposure actually begins to matter, and why talented players will eventually get found if they perform.
We also get into one of the biggest problems in youth baseball today: trying to manufacture a mechanically perfect swing instead of teaching kids how to hit. Josh explains why there is no single perfect swing, using players like Ken Griffey Jr., Barry Bonds, Jose Altuve and others as examples.
He also shares what he actually notices when evaluating talented young players, what Ron Washington taught him about keeping baseball simple, how he handled one of the worst stretches of his MLB career, and the one trait he'd choose in a 12-year-old player over everything except talent.
If you're a baseball parent trying to figure out what actually matters for your son's development, this conversation is worth watching all the way through.
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Josh Reddick joins Chasing Baseball Dreams 00:36 Cut from his middle-school team twice 03:03 What matters most for young baseball players 04:20 When does baseball exposure actually matter? 06:43 Being told he wasn't good enough 08:11 Why kids shouldn't specialize at one position too early 10:58 What Ron Washington did for Marcus Semien 12:29 There is no blueprint for becoming a Major Leaguer 14:42 Ron Washington and keeping baseball simple 17:18 What parents get wrong when their son starts struggling 20:18 The problem with chasing the "perfect" baseball swing 22:42 What Josh notices when evaluating young players 24:02 The sound of the bat and raw athletic ability 25:18 Josh knew Junior Caminero was different 26:17 Why you can't evaluate a player's future at 9U 27:07 Josh's three favorite baseball memories 28:04 Making his Major League debut with the Red Sox 29:56 The one trait Josh wants in a 12-year-old player 31:05 Final thoughts
Josh Reddick played more than 1,300 Major League games during a 13-year MLB career with the Boston Red Sox, Oakland Athletics, Los Angeles Dodgers, Houston Astros and Arizona Diamondbacks. He won the 2012 American League Gold Glove in right field and was a member of Houston's 2017 World Series championship team.
Chasing Baseball Dreams helps baseball parents cut through the noise surrounding travel baseball, youth baseball development, recruiting, exposure, showcases and the decisions that actually matter as their sons grow through the game.
#JoshReddick #YouthBaseball #BaseballParents #TravelBaseball | |||
| Episode #14 Anthony Mendez | Jane the Virgin Narrator on Travel Ball, Parenting & Letting Kids Lead | 05 sept. 2026 | 00:39:54 | |
You probably know Anthony Mendez as the Latin Lover Narrator from Jane the Virgin, the role that earned him two Emmy nominations. You may also recognize his voice from Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, American Dad, Elena of Avalor, GTA V and, if you listen to this podcast, the opening and closing of Chasing Baseball Dreams. But this conversation isn't really about Hollywood. It's about being a baseball dad. Anthony's son is now a sophomore in high school, but Anthony admits he got caught up in the travel baseball machine when his son was younger. Stats. Winning. Better teams. Expensive bats. Travel. The fear that if they didn't keep doing more, his son would fall behind. Then his son told him he didn't want to play anymore. That changed everything. Anthony joins Bobby Minor to talk about pulling back, becoming Dad instead of Coach Dad, why nobody who matters is evaluating your 10-year-old, why his son hasn't attended a single showcase yet, and the baseball lesson he wishes more parents understood: Let the kid guide you. They also talk about Anthony's voice acting career, Jane the Virgin, Antonio Banderas, growing up at Yankee Stadium, Cooperstown, youth baseball expenses and why some of the memories parents worry about end up looking completely different through their son's eyes. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Meet Anthony Mendez 00:57 Becoming the Latin Lover Narrator and a voice actor 02:45 Why Anthony hasn't done much on-camera acting 04:16 Getting caught up in the travel baseball machine 06:23 When his son wanted to quit baseball 06:37 How Anthony changed from Coach Dad to Dad 09:10 What he worried about way too much when his son was younger 10:07 Expensive bats, gloves and custom cleats 11:39 The Dominican baseball swagger 12:06 Does anyone recognize THAT voice at the ballpark? 13:23 Growing up a Yankees fan 15:19 Petco Park, Dodger Stadium and favorite ballparks 17:40 What Anthony would tell the dad about to go all-in on travel ball 20:34 Why the baseball machine makes parents feel behind 22:04 “Don't let anybody tell you a freshman is behind” 24:00 The problem with comparing your son's development 26:07 Why Anthony's son hasn't attended a showcase 28:46 Don't showcase until you have something to show 29:46 IN & OUT with Anthony Mendez 29:54 The travel ball expense he'd rethink 30:16 Jersey name or playing opportunity? 30:32 What his son needs from him now 31:21 The biggest plot twist in his son's baseball journey 31:57 The Cooperstown memory that changed Anthony's perspective 32:38 Growing up at Yankee Stadium 34:30 The message every young baseball parent needs to hear 36:01 What's next for Anthony Mendez 37:17 Where to follow Anthony #TravelBaseball #BaseballParents #YouthBaseball #AnthonyMendez | |||
| Episode #13 Todd Greene | The Truth About Travel Baseball, Rankings & Player Development | 05 sept. 2026 | 00:50:32 | |
Former Major Leaguer and current Arizona Diamondbacks special assignment scout Todd Greene has seen baseball from just about every angle. He played parts of 11 seasons in the Major Leagues, became one of the greatest power hitters in college baseball history, moved into professional scouting, and built a travel baseball program that has helped more than 350 players reach college baseball. In this episode of the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast, Todd joins Bobby Minor for a straight conversation every baseball parent needs to hear. Todd explains why youth rankings “mean absolutely nothing,” why the best team isn't always the best situation for your son, why kids shouldn't be playing baseball year-round, and why parents need to stop treating 10U, 11U and 12U success like a prediction of what a player will become. They also get into early specialization, showcases, playing time, choosing the right travel organization, late bloomers, multi-sport athletes, scout teams, the car ride home after a bad game, and the questions parents should ask before writing another check. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Meet Todd Greene 01:36 What does a special assignment scout actually do? 03:08 What successful players had in common as kids 04:16 The problem with the D1 obsession 06:02 Todd's path from 27th-round pick to the Major Leagues 09:39 Why youth baseball rankings mean nothing 12:14 How early is too early to specialize at one position? 15:46 What Todd learned from Derek Jeter 16:40 Why kids shouldn't play baseball year-round 19:12 When baseball specialization starts to make sense 21:41 What parents should look for in a travel baseball program 25:29 Does an 8-year-old really need travel baseball? 28:36 When young players should start facing better competition 30:05 The truth about youth “scout teams” 31:54 IN & OUT: 80-game seasons, national teams, showcases and the ride home 34:04 Better team or better reps? 36:33 Early bloomers, late bloomers and development 39:37 Were Major Leaguers always the best players growing up? 41:48 Todd's greatest baseball memory 44:00 Todd's advice for the parent of a 12-year-old 45:18 Questions to ask BEFORE choosing a travel team 47:17 How much should young players practice versus play? 48:10 Where to find Todd Greene and TG D-backs If you're raising a baseball player, this one is worth watching all the way through. #TravelBaseball #YouthBaseball #BaseballParents #PlayerDevelopment | |||
| Episode #12: House of Cards Star Michael Kelly on Baseball, Fatherhood & Raising a Ball Player | 03 sept. 2026 | 00:39:20 | |
Four-time Emmy-nominated actor Michael Kelly, best known as Doug Stamper on House of Cards, joins Bobby Minor on the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast for a conversation that goes way beyond Hollywood. ⠀ Michael grew up in Georgia as a diehard Atlanta Braves fan. His dad passed that love of baseball down to him, and now Michael is watching the same thing happen with his own son, Clint, who has entered high school baseball. ⠀ Michael talks about balancing fatherhood with an acting career that can take him around the world for weeks at a time, following his son’s games on GameChanger from hotel rooms overseas, and how hard it is knowing some moments simply can’t be replaced. ⠀ They also get into something every baseball parent deals with: watching your kid struggle. ⠀ Michael shares how he helped Clint through a difficult season at the plate, why failure in baseball reminds him so much of rejection in acting, and what seven years of grinding before his own acting breakthrough taught him about perseverance. ⠀ He also explains the 30-minute no-phone rule before and after games, why he tries to let the baseball experience belong to his son, and the two qualities he sees in successful actors and athletes over and over again: work ethic and respect. ⠀ Plus, Michael talks Dale Murphy, Chipper Jones, Hank Aaron, Jack Ryan, Lioness, throwing out the first pitch at an Atlanta Braves game, and an unforgettable 2021 World Series memory shared with his father, brother and son. ⠀ If you’re raising a young baseball player, there’s a lot in this conversation worth hearing. ⠀ TIMESTAMPS ⠀ 00:00 Intro 00:50 Meet Michael Kelly 02:04 How his dad made him a Braves fan 03:49 Becoming a baseball dad 05:35 Dale Murphy, Chipper Jones & Braves memories 06:54 Why Michael never played baseball 08:14 Watching your kid do what he loves 09:53 Being “Clint’s dad” at the ballpark 11:46 House of Cards, Jack Ryan & Lioness 13:04 The baseball movie Michael wanted to make 16:54 Missing his son’s games while filming overseas 19:14 The 30-minute no-phone rule 21:19 Acting rejection and baseball failure 23:18 Watching his son struggle at the plate 27:13 Choosing family over an acting role 30:05 Seven years of rejection before his breakthrough 31:03 Why work ethic and respect matter 35:06 Throwing out the first pitch for the Braves 37:41 His favorite baseball memory | |||
| Episode #11: Cameron Rupp | College Baseball Recruiting, Travel Ball & What Coaches Actually Want | 02 sept. 2026 | 01:00:44 | |
What do college baseball coaches actually look for when recruiting a high school player? And how much do Perfect Game rankings, showcases, travel baseball teams, character, and parents really matter? Former Philadelphia Phillies catcher and current University of Texas at Arlington assistant coach Cameron Rupp joins Bobby Minor on the Chasing Baseball Dreams Podcast for a conversation every baseball parent with a son who wants to play at the next level needs to hear. Cameron played at the University of Texas, competed in the 2009 College World Series, was an All-Big 12 selection, and was drafted in the third round of the 2010 MLB Draft before spending five seasons with the Phillies. In this episode, Cameron explains why he doesn’t care about a player’s Perfect Game ranking, what catches his eye when evaluating recruits, why he wants to see players fail, and why character matters to college coaches. They also dig into college baseball recruiting, JUCO baseball, the transfer portal, showcases vs. college camps, specialization, multi-sport athletes, positional versatility, catching development, swing-and-miss rates, recruiting emails, and how parents can help or hurt the recruiting process. Cameron’s message to baseball parents is simple: stop trying to project where a 12-year-old will be six years from now. Let him develop. Let him play. And let him run his own race. Timestamps00:51 Meet Cameron Rupp: Phillies catcher to college coach | |||
| Episode #10: Adam Eaton | What Baseball Parents Get Wrong About Success, Development & Failure | 01 sept. 2026 | 01:09:50 | |
Adam Eaton was 5-foot-9, a 19th-round draft pick and, by his own admission, never a big-time prospect. He still found a way to play 10 years in the Major Leagues and win a World Series. And his message to baseball parents is one I wish more people heard early: “It is not a talent contest.” Adam joins me on Chasing Baseball Dreams to talk about what actually helped him beat the odds, what he learned working with college players at Michigan State, and what he now sees every day as the first base coach for the Los Angeles Angels. We get into why parents put way too much importance on early success, why he believes kids need to play multiple sports, what coaches notice when a player goes 0-for-4, and why learning how to fail may be one of the most important skills a young player can develop. Adam also shares what he’s learned being around players like Shohei Ohtani, Juan Soto and Mike Trout, why young players need to actually watch and study baseball, and the advice he gives parents of 10-year-olds: “Your only job as a parent is to make sure he signs up next year.” TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Adam Eaton joins Chasing Baseball Dreams | |||
| Episode #9: Dustin Pedroia | Why Your Son Should Play LESS Baseball | 28 août 2026 | 01:01:03 | |
Dustin Pedroia spent 14 seasons in the big leagues, won Rookie of the Year, an MVP, four Gold Gloves and three World Series championships. ⠀ But this conversation really isn’t about any of that. It’s about what we’re doing with kids before they ever get close to the big leagues. ⠀ Dustin talks about why his sons don’t play year-round baseball before 14, why 12U rankings and exit velo can fool parents, why he would rather watch a talented player go 0-for-4 than 3-for-3, and why travel baseball has the practice-to-game ratio completely backwards. ⠀ He also shares what he actually says to his own son after a bad game, why kids need to experience failure, what David Ortiz told him about developing his swing, what scouts really notice over time, and why being the 12th player on a national team may be worse than playing every day somewhere else. ⠀ There is a LOT here for baseball parents. ⠀ TIMESTAMPS ⠀ 00:00 Dustin Pedroia joins Chasing Baseball Dreams 02:02 Why he gave back his Arizona State scholarship 03:05 Why young players need multiple sports 06:02 The tryout that changed everything 08:30 The knee injury that ended his career 11:46 Pedroia played only 20 baseball games a year 12:16 Fall in love with the work 13:42 “Your son will not fall behind” 15:22 What hitters ages 8 to 13 should work on 17:38 The business of youth baseball 20:24 Don’t showcase before you’re ready 21:25 What scouts can’t measure in one workout 24:23 Attitude, effort and preparation 28:49 What Dustin says after his son goes 0-for-3 30:44 What has changed in Major League hitting 34:22 Development vs. just playing more games 38:40 The coaching red flag parents should watch for 41:43 What matters for talented 11- and 12-year-olds 46:47 In & Out with Dustin Pedroia 49:36 12U exit velo and player rankings 50:55 Elite roster or everyday playing time? 53:01 When should a player go all-in on baseball? 55:12 Dustin’s favorite baseball movie and memories 59:00 Dustin’s advice for Bobby ⠀ If you’re raising a baseball player, especially between 8 and 14, there’s a good chance something Dustin says in this episode will make you rethink what development is supposed to look like. ⠀ Subscribe to Chasing Baseball Dreams for straight talk from people who have actually lived this game. | |||
| Episode #8: Stop The Pressure, Let Them Play | Coach Ballgame | 24 août 2026 | 00:58:52 | |
Coach Ballgame sits down to name something most parents haven't been able to see: the early specialization trap that's become industry gospel. Twenty-two years ago, kids played three sports a year. Now you hear it constantly from travel ball orgs, from coaches, from Facebook groups. Your son needs to specialize or he falls behind. Parents lie awake over this decision. But here's what Mookie Betts did. Here's what Mike Trout did. Here's what every major league player Coach Ballgame interviewed at All-Star games said: we got better because we played everything. Shohei Ohtani. Paul Skeens. Freddie Freeman. The pattern is not specialization. It's the opposite. The machine survives by convincing you that early specialization works. It doesn't. What works is fundamentals, joy, and a coach who understands that winning a 12U tournament means absolutely nothing down the road. This episode gives you what MLB players are actually telling travel ball coaches, which culture decisions actually matter, and how to recognize whether your kid's team is building him up or just paying its own commission. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 - Intro and Coach Ballgame's background 03:09 - The shift: what changed from the '90s to now 06:44 - The trap parents fall into (financial incentives behind fall ball pressure) 08:05 - What Paul Skeens and MLB players actually said at All-Star games 10:27 - The Freddie Freeman principle: detach your joy from your kid's results 15:00+ - Finding the right coach and culture. Red flags to run from 51:36 - Nicknames, trust, and why connection beats winning 55:23 - How Coach Ballgame was born 56:46 - Helping kids overcome fear of getting hit by pitches CONNECT: Website: coachballgame.com Coach Ballgame University: Online coaching curriculum Social: @coachballgame (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube) | |||
| Episode #7: Chose the Hardest Path First | Former MLB Player Travis Hafner | 21 août 2026 | 00:43:02 | |
From a North Dakota farm, no high school baseball team, to 213 MLB home runs. Travis Hafner (Pronk) chose the hardest path first, and it changed everything. We talk about turning down guaranteed starting spots, why multiple sports matter, how to actually parent through failure, and what his own sons taught him about the game that 12 years in the majors couldn't. TIMESTAMPS 0:00 - Intro: From Pronk bars to the big leagues | |||
| Episode #6: Long Beach State Head Coach TJ Bruce | 14 août 2026 | 01:04:18 | |
TJ Bruce, Long Beach State head coach and D1 veteran, breaks down the one habit that separates parents who keep their kids' love for the game from parents who burn it out: looking inside out instead of outside in. ⠀ Most parents chase what's happening outside. The ranking, the team name, the comparison to other kids, what the college board might think someday. Meanwhile, their son is drowning under the weight of expectations he never made. TJ discovered this the hard way when his 12-year-old broke down in the car and said, "I feel that pressure every day I step on the field." ⠀ This is a one-hour conversation with a coach who sits in every chair: player, coach, college head coach, dad. He finally figured out that the scoreboard you need to read is not the one in the field. It's inside your kid. ⠀ What you'll hear: ⠀ 03:08 ... The car ride home that hit him like a ton of bricks ⠀ 04:36 ... Why the coach's kid carries a different kind of pressure ⠀ 07:38 ... Do you have 12-year-olds on your recruiting board? His answer cuts straight through ⠀ 08:33 ... The first base coaching story that says everything about parenting vs. coaching ⠀ 15:00 ... Multiple sports vs. year-round baseball: what actually matters at 12 ⠀ 30:00+ ... The "eleventh man on the expensive roster" and why playing time beats pedigree ⠀ 45:00+ ... How comparison becomes the thief of joy, and parents pass it straight to their kids ⠀ 55:00+ ... The mental game most parents refuse to teach ⠀ 58:00+ ... What it means to "be great with Johnny being who he is" ⠀ 59:39 ... Stop looking outside in. Start looking inside out. | |||
| Episode #5: Justin Cryer | Don't Make It Bigger Than It Is | 08 août 2026 | 00:58:28 | |
Former Division I pitcher, six-time MLB scout for the Houston Astros, and now director at Marucci Sports, Justin Cryer sits down to expose what scouts actually see, what parents waste money on, and why most travel baseball spending never shows up on a single scouting report. Justin played two years on the bench at Ole Miss, got Tommy John, and still made it. He knows what the machine sells parents and what scouts are actually looking for. This episode cuts through every layer of the youth baseball industry: fake elite teams, rankings that don't matter, equipment that won't fix your swing, and the one thing that separates players who make it from the ones who quit. Full interview includes rapid-fire In & Out questions and Justin's parting wisdom on keeping youth baseball the size it actually is. TIMESTAMPS [0:00] Introduction: Justin's background and path #ChasingBaseballDreams #TravelBall #ScoutsTruth | |||
| Episode #4: Brandon & Deanna Emerson | Parents of #2 Overall Pick Grady Emerson | 06 août 2026 | 01:03:51 | |
Parents of #2 MLB Draft Pick: Grady Emerson's Journey ⠀ Brandon and Deanna Emerson share the real story behind their son Grady's path to becoming the #2 overall pick in the MLB draft by the Tampa Bay Rays. This isn't about rankings, showcases, or expensive travel teams. It's about recognizing talent, protecting your kid, and not getting caught in the machine. ⠀ In this episode: ⠀ (0:00) The moment they realized Grady was different. 12 years old, youngest on a loaded team, walks out with tournament MVP. ⠀ (4:48) Why those expensive loaded 8U and 9U teams almost killed it. What they wish they'd done instead. ⠀ (15:00) The dark side of Perfect Game rankings. Why scouts don't care what parents think matters. ⠀ (28:00) How they navigated people trying to exploit Grady. Why parents are the only filter that works. ⠀ (42:00) What they'd change about their journey. Trusting coaches too much on arm care and not questioning people with ulterior motives sooner. ⠀ (59:00) The unpopular truth about select baseball, youth baseball recruiting, and why the events matter more than the rankings. ⠀ This is essential listening for any travel ball parent asking if the machine is worth it. | |||
| Episode #3: Ben Jenkins CEO of Warstic Understanding the New High School Bat Rules | 30 juil. 2026 | 00:51:54 | |
Welcome to Episode #3 of the Chasing Baseball Dreams podcast where Bobby talks to Ben Jenkins. Ben is the CEO of Warstic and a former Mississippi State shortstop. He designs bats for major league players. And in this conversation, he says the thing most bat companies won't say out loud. The new USA high school bat rules are coming. Drop 4, drop 5, drop 6. Parents lost their minds thinking high school kids would be swinging USA bats that launch missiles. That's not what's happening. Ben breaks down why, and what the rule change actually means for your son. But the bigger conversation here is about something most baseball parents have never thought about. The heaviest, longest bat your son can control and flush the ball with is the bat he should be swinging. Not the lightest one. Not the one with the biggest barrel. Not the one a reviewer ranked number one. Ben talks about why mass matters more than bat speed when it comes to real exit velo. He explains why major league hitters almost never go lighter than a drop 2. He walks through bat profiles, from the 243 to the 271, and why the bat that looks the best almost never swings the best. He talks about what contact really means and why the game is shifting back toward hitters who can beat a pitcher multiple ways instead of swinging for the fence every at bat. He also gets honest about something most CEOs would never admit. When Warstic had the number one ranked bat, not every kid who bought it was a good fit for it. That's the part parents need to hear. The "best bat" is only the best bat if it matches what your son does in the box. We talk about his son Shaw heading to college baseball, the real reason kids struggle with a drop 3 in high school, why wood bats are one of the simplest and best training tools at any age, and how USA Baseball taking over bat standards from the NCAA could raise bat prices through licensing fees. If you've ever stood in a store staring at a wall of 100 bats wondering which one your son needs, this episode will cut through the noise. ⠀ 0:49 ... Welcome and intro to Ben Jenkins, CEO of Warstic 1:18 ... The new USA high school bat rules explained 3:18 ... What bats were like when we played (beezers, BESRs, and taking ground balls from guys with drop 4s) 5:43 ... The myth that a lighter bat means more exit velo 7:01 ... Ben's bat formula: swing the heaviest, longest you can control and flush 8:42 ... Why flushing the ball matters more than max exit velo 10:02 ... Why mass wins the physics equation 12:19 ... MLB players who want smaller barrels than most 13U kids swing 12:46 ... Why bat reviews feel so good to parents (and what they miss) 16:56 ... Bat profiles: the 243, the 271, the 110, and why shape changes everything 21:20 ... The overwhelm of 100 bats on a wall 24:05 ... Should every player swing wood in the cages? 25:49 ... How a parent with no baseball background can tell if the bat is wrong 27:42 ... "My kid is behind, he needs a lighter bat" ... why that's almost never the answer 29:53 ... Contact is coming back (and real uniforms at the All-Star Game) 33:37 ... Transition back to the USA bat rules and the "sell more bats" conspiracy 37:51 ... How USA Baseball benefits from the rule change through licensing fees 40:36 ... Why kids struggle with a drop 3 in high school (and how to fix it early) 41:25 ... Ben's son Shaw and his team switching to drop 3 a year early 44:20 ... What if Shaw wanted to swing a competitor's bat? 48:37 ... Being real in the age of AI and the repaint story #baseballbats #travelbaseball #youthbaseball #warstic #highschoolbaseball | |||
| Episode #2: D1 Coach Says Your 12 Year Old's Rankings Don't Matter | Texas A&M HC Michael Earley | 30 juil. 2026 | 00:42:31 | |
Youth baseball parents hear the truth directly from Texas A&M head coach Michael Earley in Episode 2 of the Chasing Baseball Dreams podcast. 35 years of coaching select baseball and high school, plus going through this process with my youngest son, who's playing baseball in college right now, taught me one thing: most parents are spending money and energy on the wrong stuff at the wrong time. Coach Earley confirms it from the D1 side. ⠀ In this conversation we cover: ⠀ 0:00 What D1 coaches actually evaluate when recruiting 3:15 Do PG rankings and grades matter? 5:14 Are college coaches scouting 12U showcases? 9:38 Transfer portal vs high school recruiting 12:08 Why the JUCO route is not plan B 15:17 A dad spending 30K a year on his 10 year old 17:27 Nothing at 12U matters in the context of recruiting 20:02 Compete over compare 21:29 How does an undersized kid without resources get found? 25:06 What "being seen" actually means to a head coach 27:47 Only go to showcases when you have something to showcase 28:52 What to tell a dad who is convinced his 12 year old is D1 32:39 Has a parent ever gotten a kid crossed off the board? 34:08 In and Out rapid fire with Coach Earley 36:44 Roster rules, scholarship math, and what a good offer looks like 40:43 Advice for the parent of a 9 or 10 year old ⠀ Coach Earley's starting center fielder this year played JV his freshman and sophomore year and was on the second team of his organization. He hit .340 with 20 homers and 20 doubles for the Aggies and went in the second round to the Chicago Cubs. Early dominance does not predict who makes it. That's one of the biggest things parents get wrong. ⠀ If you're a travel baseball parent spending thousands and wondering if any of it is working, this interview will change how you think about the journey. ⠀ Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don't miss Episode 3. ⠀ @ChasingBaseballDreams | |||
| Episode #1: SwagnShades Tells Parents What Nobody Else Will About Travel Baseball | 29 juil. 2026 | 01:04:17 | |
Alex Hale played 2 ways in college. Got drafted. Built Chips Performance from the ground up. And he's put over 400 players through the recruiting process. ⠀ So when he says 90% of baseball is just playing catch... that's not a hot take. That's 400 recruiting journeys talking. ⠀ In this conversation we get into why most travel teams get development completely wrong, what college coaches are actually watching (and when they start watching), why the JUCO path might be the smartest move most families never consider, and the one question every parent should ask before they commit to a team and swipe their card. ⠀ Alex also breaks down why a dominant 12U team can actually hurt your son, why switching teams just so your kid plays shortstop is a trap, and what happens when parents chase the name on the hoodie instead of the reps their son actually needs. ⠀ If your son plays travel baseball and you've ever wondered whether the money is going to the right place... sit through this one. ⠀ Follow SwagnShades / Chips Performance: @chipsperformance Follow Chasing Baseball Dreams: @chasingbaseballdreams | |||