Have A Seat with Jason Benetti and Dan Dickerson – Details, episodes & analysis

Tigers pitcher Tyler Holton sits down with Jason and Dan to discuss his impressive 2024 season. How did he make the transition to high-leverage reliever appear so seamless? Holton details the origins of his self-confidence and how it’s helped him be successful in several areas of life. Tyler also explains the building blocks behind creating a new pitch and the data he utilizes throughout that process. What is a “flow state” and how do high-performing players manage to channel it? Also in this episode, we learn about Tyler’s first job as a delivery driver, his love for all things Florida State, and which of his teammates is most vocal in the clubhouse after a win.

Tigers center fielder Parker Meadows joins Jason and Dan to discuss his early season struggles, bouncing back after a stint in Toledo, and maintaining joy throughout the entire process. What is it like to be a part of the youthful core the Tigers are building around? Meadows walks us through “the catch” he made in Seattle, including the mental and physical prep behind a home run robbery. When was the first moment that Parker realized he was fast? Also in this episode, Meadows expounds on his close-knit family, his competitive background in ping-pong, and lets us in on which teammate is a terrible three-point shooter.  

Tigers southpaw Tarik Skubal sits down with Jason and Dan to discuss his journey from Seattle University to The Show. What was it like making his MLB debut in 2020 without family, friends, or fans in the stands? Skubal recounts being on the wrong end of Jason calling one too many Tim Anderson knocks. How did he make the turn from self-described rocky start to dominant mound presence and Opening Day starter? Skubal also delves into the importance of first pitch strikes, making in-game adjustments, and injury prevention. We also learn how backyard make it, take it basketball helped forge Tarik’s competitive fire. 

Jason and Dan sit down with Detroit skipper, A.J. Hinch. The former MLB catcher explains why he never thought he’d be a manager, recounts throwing up after receiving his first offer, and relays his unconventional road to clubhouse leader. Hinch delves into his fascination with sports psychology and how he utilizes principles to create impactful and consistent messaging for players. How have his thoughts on lineup construction evolved over the years – or have they? Hinch also details the telltale signs of uncomfortable hitters, navigating the intricacies of pitching changes, and shares his thoughts on the 2024 Tigers. Finally, A.J. explains why he won’t be picking up water sports any time soon.   Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/have-a-seat-with-jason-benetti-and-dan-dickerson/id1742348104 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5925LAVAIHrpnRzn6GaKSE YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdcl1TGZ_-NZcXtRMYIbKLZUzfASShive

Tigers broadcasters Jason Benetti and Dan Dickerson sit down to preview their new podcast, Have a Seat. After years of podcasting refusals, what made Dan finally say yes? The pair discuss their very distinct pathways to the broadcasting booth. Plus, we learn how the wilderness almost ruined Jason’s career.

Tigers 2024 first round draft pick Bryce Rainer sits down with Jason and Dan to recount his journey from Harvard-Westlake standout to professional baseball player. The former two-way star explains why he ultimately made the decision to move away from pitching. How has Rainer’s swing evolved over time? What was his first visit to Detroit to like? Also in this episode, Bryce shares his hottest food takes, favorite home run memory, and recalls swimming in Vin Scully’s pool.

2024 National Baseball Hall of Fame Inductee Jim Leyland joins Jason and Dan to discuss his odyssey from Tigers minor leaguer to the illustrious halls of Cooperstown. The Skipper explains how growing up in a big family helped shape his appreciation for managing different personalities. How did the Tigers become his first love? Leyland recounts balancing his boss role on the field with being a father, brother, and friend figure in the clubhouse. How did he manage to consistently get the most out of his players? Ahead of his number retirement ceremony at Comerica Park, Leyland recalls some of his favorite Tigers memories including fostering a winning culture in 2006, advocating for a young Justin Verlander, and his genuine appreciation for Detroit fans. 

Detroit rookie Wenceel Pérez sits down with Jason and Dan to discuss his journey to the Big Leagues, one that began as a 16-year-old international free agent signing in 2016. What was it like moving to a foreign country at such a young age to pursue his dream? The Dominican Republic native recounts learning to switch-hit as a kid, as well as his recent transition from shortstop to outfielder. Manager A. J. Hinch describes Pérez as “fearless.” Where does his confidence and seemingly endless trove of joy come from? Also in this episode, we learn about what it’s like to face Aroldis Chapman, why triples are fun, and why we all need to try “La Bandera Dominicana.”

Tigers starting pitcher Reese Olson sits down with Jason and Dan to discuss his second season in the big leagues. The 24-year-old explains how he earned his “silent assassin” moniker and his reputation as a weight room monster. The guys delve into some pitch sequencing discussion, and Reese recounts the development of both his change-up and his slider. Which pitch is his favorite to throw? Also in this episode, we learn why catch partners are significant, why pitchers enjoy golfing, and where the typically stoic Reese channels his emotional output.  

Tigers President of Baseball Operations, Scott Harris sits down with Jason and Dan to discuss the challenges facing hitters in MLB, and how players like Riley Greene have rebounded from early adversity. We’ve seen flashes of what the team can do offensively this season, but the goal is to create more consistent run support for Tigers starting pitching, Harris explains. How is the organization building Detroit into a destination, a place that players equate with continual improvement? Also in this episode, Harris delves into his process for evaluating decisions (and non-decisions), highlights several Tigers prospects, and explains why being a new dad will humble you in an instant.