Explore every episode of the podcast The Baseball United Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arabia Wolves Pitcher Brian Schlitter Ready To Rock At UAE Series | 12 Feb 2025 | 00:23:54 | |
Arabia Wolves pitcher Brian Schlitter shares his journey through professional baseball, from playing for Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg to making his MLB debut with the team he grew up rooting for—the Chicago Cubs. He talks about launching his custom shoe design business, Schlit’s Kicks, reflects on the 2023 All-Star Showcase, and looks ahead to this week’s historic UAE Series (February 14–16, 2025) with excitement. Brian shares why he believes Baseball United’s leadership is a key factor in the league’s rapid growth and selects his warmup song for the UAE Series live on the show. Tickets to the UAE Series can be found exclusively on Platinumlist. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Mid East Falcons Infielder Mitch Piatnik Previews UAE Series | 07 Feb 2025 | 00:20:33 | |
Mid East Falcons infielder Mitch Piatnik dives into his professional baseball journey, including his time in the Cincinnati Reds organization and playing in the independent league. He shares his passion for mentoring the next generation of players, reflects on his relationship with Baseball United Co-Founder and MLB Hall of Famer Barry Larkin, and talks about his excitement for representing Baseball United in the upcoming UAE Series (February 14–16, 2025). Tickets to the UAE Series can be found exclusively on Platinumlist. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Italy’s Alex Liddi Talks Baseball United and Beyond | 27 Sep 2024 | 00:31:58 | |
Mid East Falcons infielder Alex Liddi takes center stage in this episode as he shares his remarkable journey from Italy to becoming the first Italian player in Major League Baseball. He discusses the cultural nuances and challenges he encountered along the way and reflects on how his journey has paved the path for other players from Italy to pursue their dreams. With unwavering confidence, Alex talks about the promising direction of Baseball United under its leadership and ownership, expressing excitement about the league's potential to thrive. He also highlights the significance of the upcoming Baseball United Arab Classic (November 7-10, 2024), discussing the positive impact these events will have on players and the overall development of baseball in the Middle East. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Baseball United's Vishnu Kalel on the Rise of Baseball in India | 20 Sep 2024 | 00:38:59 | |
Vishnu Kalel, Baseball United’s Development Specialist for India, joins the show to share his inspiring journey from school teacher to nurturing some of the country’s top baseball prospects. He reflects on the moment he fell in love with the game and expresses deep gratitude for how Baseball United has enabled him to fulfill his dream of coaching young players. Vishnu provides insight into his role within the organization and shares his strong connection with Baseball United's Manager of Baseball Operations, Carlos Mirabal. He discusses the current state of baseball in India and the unique challenges of introducing the sport to a new market. Grateful for the support of Baseball United’s leadership and ownership group, Vishnu highlights their belief in his ability to elevate players to the next level. He reflects on last year’s All-Star Showcase, emphasizing the impact of his pupils, Akshay More and Saurabh Gaikwad, as they competed on an international stage alongside some of the game’s greatest. Looking ahead, Vishnu shares his excitement for the upcoming Baseball United Arab Classic (November 7-10, 2024) and the positive influence he believes it will have on the participating nations. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Robbie Ross Jr. Reflects on MLB Journey & The Impact of Baseball United | 13 Sep 2024 | 00:36:30 | |
Mumbai Cobras pitcher Robbie Ross Jr. joins the show to reflect on his experiences in the Major Leagues and beyond. Robbie discusses his time with the Texas Rangers and Boston Red Sox, sharing memorable stories of playing alongside legends like David Ortiz and Mookie Betts. He highlights his experience at the All-Star Showcase in Dubai and the potential for baseball’s growth in the UAE. Robbie dives into the unique atmosphere of playing in Dubai, the unity among players from diverse backgrounds, and the impact Baseball United is having in the Middle East and South Asia. The conversation wraps up with a look at upcoming events and the excitement of building a new fanbase in the region. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Baseball United to Build Middle East’s First-Ever Professional Ballpark | 04 Sep 2024 | 00:02:16 | |
Baseball United has announced a historic milestone with plans to build the first-ever professional baseball ballpark in the Middle East. Located at The Sevens sports complex in Dubai, this groundbreaking field will be a hub for the region’s growing baseball community. The playing field will be named Barry Larkin Field, in honor of the Baseball United Co-Founder and MLB Hall of Famer. The ballpark will feature cutting-edge technology, a modular seating configuration, and dimensions modeled after Yankee Stadium, marking a significant moment in the region’s baseball history. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Steven Moya’s Journey from Vitilla to Baseball United | 30 Aug 2024 | 00:30:15 | |
Karachi Monarchs outfielder Steven Moya joins the show to share his journey from playing vitilla on the streets of the Dominican Republic to the Major Leagues. He discusses being scouted by MLB teams at 16 and his transition to professional baseball after signing with the Detroit Tigers in 2008. Steven reflects on his MLB debut, the lessons he learned from legends like Miguel Cabrera and Torii Hunter, and his current pursuit of the Triple Crown with the TSG Hawks in the CPBL. He also highlights the impact of Baseball United's ownership & leadership, the memorable fan support at last year’s All-Star showcase, and his excitement for the upcoming BU Cup (February 22, 2025 - March 1, 2025) and Baseball United’s inaugural season (October 23, 2025 - November 23, 2025) while emphasizing the importance of growing the game. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Dillon Thomas Welcomes Exciting Opportunity with Baseball United | 23 Aug 2024 | 00:36:47 | |
Mid East Falcons outfielder Dillon Thomas joins the show to offer his compelling insights into his journey through professional baseball. Dillon reflects on his recent experience playing in the Mexican League, and learning Spanish. He discusses the biggest differences between affiliated baseball and the independent leagues and shares what it was like to make his MLB debut after 11 seasons in the minor leagues. Dillon also talks about playing alongside Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani, giving an inside look at Shohei’s preparation. He explains how he adjusted to being a role player at the MLB level and what it means to him to help grow the game with Baseball United. As one of the first players to play professional baseball in Dubai, Dillon describes the immersive fan experience at the All-Star Showcase and highlights the passion of Baseball United’s leadership. He also touches on his role as a mentor to young prospects. Dillon expresses his excitement to compete in Dubai during the Baseball United Cup (February 22, 2025- March 1, 2025) and Baseball United Season 1 (October 23, 2025 - November 23, 2025), and he mentions the interest other players have shown in getting involved with the league. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Arabia Wolves Outfielder Dwight Smith Jr. Talks MLB Career and Global Growth of Baseball | 16 Aug 2024 | 00:37:03 | |
Dwight Smith Jr., former first-round draft pick and Arabia Wolves outfielder, joins the show to reflect on his journey through baseball, from his early career to his impact on the game today. He reflects on his father, Dwight Smith Sr.’s, memorable 1995 World Series win with the Atlanta Braves and his own journey from being drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays to making his major league debut against his hometown Braves. Dwight delves into his thoughts during the 2018 trade that sent him to the rebuilding Baltimore Orioles and his role as a leader with the team. He also provides insight into his experience at last year’s All-Star Showcase in Dubai and the significance of expanding the game globally. With excitement, Dwight discusses the upcoming Baseball United Cup (February 22, 2025 - March 1, 2025) and Baseball United Season 1 (October 23, 2025 - November 23, 2025), expressing his confidence in the league’s bright future. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Baseball United's #1 Overall Draft Pick Karan Patel Discusses His Historic Journey | 09 Aug 2024 | 00:37:57 | |
Baseball United's #1 overall draft pick, Karan Patel, joins the show to share an exclusive look into his historic journey. Karan discusses his childhood, where he developed a love for both cricket and baseball. He reflects on his experience as one of fourteen players chosen to represent the USA Cricket U-19 team for the World Cup qualifiers. Selected by the Chicago White Sox in the seventh round of the 2019 MLB Draft, Karan shares valuable lessons from his time in the organization and the significance of being the first Indian-American drafted by an MLB franchise. With roots in India, Karan expresses his excitement and gratitude for representing the country’s first professional baseball franchise, the Mumbai Cobras. He also praises Baseball United's leadership for their vision and execution, reminisces about his participation in last year’s All-Star showcase, and reveals his anticipation for the Baseball United Cup (February 22, 2025- March 1, 2025), Baseball United Season 1 (October 23, 2025 - November 23, 2025), and the potential rivalries that may emerge. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Baseball United Announces Dates for First Full Season | 01 Aug 2024 | 00:02:45 | |
Baseball United has announced its schedule for the league's inaugural full season running from October 23,2025 to November 23, 2025, highlighting an exciting year of events. In addition to the season, the league will hold a professional tournament, the Baseball United Cup, and a national team competition—the Baseball United Arab Classic—which will feature eight national teams from countries across the Middle East and South Asia. For more details, visit www.baseballunited.com/events Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Nick Swisher Spreading The Joys Of Baseball Around The World | 26 Jul 2024 | 00:40:09 | |
In this episode of the Baseball United Podcast, host Liam Skiffington sits down with Baseball United Co-Owner Nick Swisher. A 12-year MLB veteran and World Series champion, Swisher brings his unmatched energy and passion to the show as he reflects on his journey from being a first-round draft pick by the Oakland A's to winning a World Series with the New York Yankees. He shares insights on what made that Yankees team so great and learning 'how to be a Yankee' from legends like Mariano Rivera, Derek Jeter, and Jorge Posada. Swisher also delves into his role with Baseball United, recounting his experiences in the broadcast booth at last year's All-Star Showcase. 'Swish' emphasizes the importance of growing the game globally and shares his perspective on being part of the most prestigious ownership group in sports. He expresses his belief in Chairman & CEO Kash Shaikh and the league's leadership team, confident that Baseball United will become the biggest international sports brand in the world. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Arabia Wolves Pitcher Alex Katz Fired Up For Historic UAE Series | 31 Jan 2025 | 00:25:16 | |
Arabia Wolves pitcher Alex Katz shares his journey through the minor leagues, his experience representing Team Israel in international competitions like the World Baseball Classic and the Olympics, and how he built his business, Stadium Custom Kicks. He discusses the importance of leadership in any venture, his excitement for competing in the upcoming UAE Series (February 14–16, 2025) and the potential for baseball’s growth in the Middle East. Tickets to the UAE Series can be found exclusively on Platinumlist. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| World Series Champion Matt Barnes Discusses The Impact Of Baseball United | 19 Jul 2024 | 00:45:07 | |
In this episode of the Baseball United Podcast host Liam Skiffington sits down with 2018 World Series champion and Baseball United Co-Owner Matt Barnes to discuss the global expansion of baseball. Matt discusses his childhood as a die-hard New York Yankees fan and his decision to play for the University of Connecticut under legendary coach Jim Penders. He reflects on being drafted 19th overall by the Boston Red Sox in the 2011 MLB Draft and making his big league debut. Barnes reminisces about winning Game 1 of the 2018 World Series and what made that championship team so special and successful. Matt expresses his excitement about being part of an ownership group that has had a profound impact on the game and discusses Baseball United Chairman and CEO Kash Shaikh’s relentless vision and dedication to growing the sport. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Didi Gregorius Helping Ignite Professional Baseball In The Middle East | 12 Jul 2024 | 00:38:39 | |
In this episode of the Baseball United podcast, host Liam Skiffington sits down with Baseball United Co-Owner and MLB veteran Didi Gregorius. They discuss Didi's recent experiences in the Caribbean Series and the Mexican League, his love for baseball, and his journey to the major leagues. Didi shares insights on playing under different managers, handling pressure, and competing in the postseason. He also talks about the experience and challenges of taking over as the New York Yankees shortstop after Derek Jeter. He reflects on representing his home country in the World Baseball Classic and the growth of baseball in Curaçao and globally. Didi emphasizes how baseball unites people, allowing for the sharing of knowledge and experience. He reminisces about his time in last year’s All-Star Showcase and reveals what motivated him to invest in Baseball United. Gregorius discusses the vital role of fans, the significance of community, and the opportunities for young players. He praises Baseball United's leadership for their vision, determination, and resilience, expressing confidence that the league will become one of the premier leagues in the world, offering a unique experience for players and fans alike. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| NPB Legend Carlos Mirabal Embracing New Challenges With Baseball United | 28 Jun 2024 | 01:14:37 | |
Join host Liam Skiffington as he welcomes Carlos Mirabal, Baseball United’s Manager of Baseball Operations, for an exclusive deep dive into his fascinating baseball career. From his beginnings with the New York Yankees to becoming a star in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball League, Carlos shares his enduring passion for the sport and his current role with Baseball United. Carlos discusses his journey into coaching and scouting, and emphasizes the importance of developing baseball cultures in countries like India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. He highlights the crucial role of mentorship for young players and how Baseball United is creating opportunities for them to thrive. Carlos underscores the importance of consistency and dedication in the game and shares his thoughts on the global expansion of baseball. Carlos also praises the exceptional leadership at Baseball United, including Kash Shaikh, John Miedreich, Eddie Diaz, and Barry Larkin, noting their passion, work ethic, and ability to inspire everyone in the organization to achieve the greater mission. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Inside the Dugout with Longtime MLB Coach John McLaren | 21 Jun 2024 | 00:56:29 | |
In this episode of the Baseball United Podcast, host Liam Skiffington sits down with longtime MLB coach John McLaren. With over five decades of experience in professional baseball, John has coached around the globe and impacted countless players' careers. Currently the manager of the Arabia Wolves, John reflects on what made players like Roger Clemens, Ichiro Suzuki, and Barry Larkin so great, and discusses his experience coaching with Lou Piniella. John also talks about his time coaching in three World Baseball Classics. He shares why he believes the league will thrive, highlights the unique leadership at Baseball United, and expresses his excitement for being a part of this groundbreaking initiative to bring professional baseball to the Middle East and South Asia. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Former MLB All-Star Elvis Andrus Goes Beyond The Diamond With Baseball United | 15 Jun 2024 | 00:44:40 | |
In this episode of the Baseball United Podcast, host Liam Skiffington welcomes Baseball United Co-Owner Elvis Andrus. With 15 years of MLB experience, Elvis offers a unique perspective on the game and his new role in ownership. Elvis shares how he was inspired by his older brothers and fellow Venezuelan shortstop Omar Vizquel. He talks about achieving his dream of making it to the majors at just 20 years old and the incredible experience of playing in back-to-back World Series. Elvis provides insights into managing the pressures of a Game 7 at such a young age and reflects on his relationship with longtime teammate and fellow Baseball United Co-Owner, Adrian Beltre. Elvis delves into his motivations for joining Baseball United and his vision for the league's future. He reflects on last year's All-Star showcase in Dubai and how he left with a newfound appreciation for the behind the scenes work of putting on such a major event. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| World Series Champion Dennis Cook's New Chapter With Baseball United | 07 Jun 2024 | 00:54:50 | |
In this episode of the Baseball United Podcast, host Liam Skiffington sits down with 15-year MLB veteran and manager of the Mid East Falcons Dennis Cook. Cook opens up about his early passion for baseball and his memorable journey through the big leagues. He shares insights on his versatile roles, transitioning from starting pitcher to a formidable reliever, and his experiences during the intense steroid era. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Two-Time MLB All-Star Starling Marte Joins Baseball United Ownership Group | 30 May 2024 | 00:02:35 | |
Baseball United proudly welcomes two-time MLB All-Star and two-time Gold Glove Award winner Starling Marte to its esteemed ownership group. Marte, currently the starting right fielder for the New York Mets, brings his impressive career accolades and passion for the game to Baseball United. He joins a growing roster of baseball legends, including Barry Larkin, Mariano Rivera, and Adrián Beltré, and becomes the fifth active MLB player to invest in the league, joining fellow All-Stars Elvis Andrus, Matt Barnes, Luis Severino, and Ronald Acuña Jr. Hailing from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Marte is eager to help expand baseball's reach in the Middle East, India, and Pakistan, continuing Baseball United’s mission to inspire one billion new fans to fall in love with the game of baseball. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Former MLB All-Star Jair Jurrjens' Journey From Curacao to Co-Owner | 22 May 2024 | 01:06:16 | |
Baseball United Co-Owner Jair Jurrjens joins the show to discuss his love for the game, his career in MLB, and his international playing experience. He talks about the ups and downs of baseball and the importance of perseverance. Jurrjens shares his journey from growing up in Curacao and being influenced by his family and Andruw Jones to playing in the MLB and representing the Netherlands in international tournaments. He also discusses the growth of baseball globally and the impact of international tournaments like the World Baseball Classic. Jurrjens highlights the unique atmosphere and camaraderie at Baseball United and the importance of putting ego aside for the greater good of the mission. He also dives into the impact of Baseball United, the future of the league, and his motivations for becoming a co-owner of the league. He emphasizes the importance of government partnerships and support in order to grow the league and provide opportunities for young players. Jurrjens also talks about the current state of baseball in Curacao and the challenges faced by young players in balancing school and sports. He shares advice for aspiring baseball players and expresses his gratitude to the fans in the Middle East and South Asia. The final segment features a surprising question that Jurrjens had never encountered before. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Bridging Cultures Through Baseball With Co-Owner Ryan Howard | 15 May 2024 | 00:44:36 | |
In this episode of the Baseball United podcast, host Liam Skiffington sits down with co-owner of Baseball United, Ryan Howard. They discuss Ryan's extensive MLB career, his involvement with Baseball United, and his children's book series. Ryan shares his enthusiasm for expanding professional baseball to the Middle East and South Asia, emphasizing the sport's potential to unite countries. He also highlights the importance of investing in passionate leaders and the necessity of transparency and hard work in building a successful league. Reflecting on his MLB days, Ryan talks about his rookie year, his MVP season, and insights from interactions with mentors like Charlie Manuel and Jim Thome. He also expresses his love for Philadelphia, the significance of playing his entire career with the Phillies, and his experiences playing in Japan and thoughts on the designated hitter in the National League. He envisions Baseball United becoming one of the premier professional leagues and expresses his excitement for bridging cultural gaps and advancing the game of baseball. The episode wraps up with Ryan urging young athletes to engage with and practice baseball, while also sharing his personal Mount Rushmore of Philadelphia Phillies legends. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| From the Field to the Front Office with VP of Baseball Operations Eddie Diaz | 10 May 2024 | 00:58:46 | |
In this episode of the Baseball United podcast, host Liam Skiffington sits down with Eddie Diaz, the Vice President of Baseball Operations at Baseball United. Eddie shares insights from his remarkable 40-year journey in professional baseball, transitioning from player to executive. He reflects on his experiences in the minor leagues, managing teams in Mexico, and his current role focusing on recruiting global talent while promoting inclusivity and diversity within the sport. Highlighting the importance of character in scouting, he also discusses the leadership dynamics within Baseball United and the success of international players in the organization. Further, Eddie delves into his passion for charity, influenced by his mother’s dedication to helping others. He talks about the essential skills for scouting and managing, the achievements in the Mexican league, and his contributions to the careers of notable players like Julio Franco and Jose Ramirez. Finally, he considers the challenges faced by Latin American players and the importance of strong support networks, envisioning a bright future for Baseball United driven by unity and ambition. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Arabia Wolves Outfielder Courtney Hawkins Gears Up for UAE Series Showdown | 17 Jan 2025 | 00:29:54 | |
Arabia Wolves outfielder Courtney Hawkins shares his journey through professional baseball—from being a first-round draft pick to navigating the challenges of being released and reviving his career through independent leagues. He reflects on how these experiences shaped him as a player and a mentor, including his work with the next generation of athletes through private lessons. Hawkins also discusses participating in the 2023 All-Star Showcase, his excitement for representing the Arabia Wolves in the upcoming UAE Series (February 14–16, 2025), and how Baseball United’s leadership inspires players like him to grow the game globally. Get your tickets to the UAE Series exclusively on Platinumlist! Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Inside Baseball United With Co-Founder & EVP of Baseball Operations John Miedreich | 01 May 2024 | 00:53:28 | |
In this episode of the Baseball United podcast, host Liam Skiffington sits down with Co-Founder & EVP of Baseball Operations, John Miedreich. They explore John's journey from being the general manager of a baseball academy in the Dominican Republic to his current role with Baseball United. They delve into the unique challenge of transforming a cricket stadium into a professional baseball field and discuss Kash Shaikh's leadership as CEO and Chairman of Baseball United. John shares insights on Baseball United’s partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the ambitious future of Baseball United, underlining their mission to impact the world by turning the impossible into possible. The conversation also covers the organization's commitment to recruiting high-character professional players to introduce baseball to new markets. With a robust database of potential recruits and ongoing interest from players, John emphasizes the league's focus on diversity and inclusivity. The choice of the Middle East and South Asia as league locations reflects the regions' youthful, diverse, and sports-loving demographics. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Baseball United Co-Founder Barry Larkin on Pioneering New Grounds in the Game of Baseball | 24 Apr 2024 | 01:01:40 | |
Join host Liam Skiffington as he sits down with Baseball United co-founder Barry Larkin to explore the origins and core values of the organization, including innovation, inclusivity, and diversity. Larkin discusses the importance of community engagement alongside the development of the professional league and the challenges of introducing baseball to new regions. Barry also highlights the role of the ownership group in fostering sustainability and becoming integral to community fabric. Reflecting on his MLB career, Larkin shares how his leadership roles have shaped his business approach and the profound impact his mentors had on him. He recounts his proudest moments, such as winning the World Series, and observes changes in player development and management strategies since his retirement. The conversation concludes with Barry’s insights on the qualities of today's promising young shortstops, wrapped up by a rapid-fire session where he shares quick thoughts on various baseball topics. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| President of Dubai Little League Roger Duthie on Partnering with Baseball United | 17 Apr 2024 | 00:37:52 | |
Roger Duthie, President of Dubai Little League, sits down with host Liam Skiffington to delve into the league's transformative partnership with Baseball United. He highlights the opportunities and benefits this alliance brings to both the players and the wider community. Throughout the conversation, Roger explores the growth of baseball in the Middle East, emphasizing Dubai Little League’s commitment to community engagement, inclusivity, and the promotion of core values within the sport. He passionately advocates for grassroots development, encouraging families and aspiring players to get involved with Dubai Little League, helping to foster a thriving future for baseball in the region. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Baseball United Co-Owner Robinson Chirinos On Fueling Baseball's Global Reach | 10 Apr 2024 | 00:45:18 | |
MLB veteran and Baseball United Co-Owner Robinson Chirinos sits down with host Liam Skiffington to discuss his involvement in the league and the organization's vision. Chirinos highlights the significance of Baseball United chairman Kash Shaikh’s leadership and being a part of the most prolific ownership group in sports. The two discuss the value of mentoring young players and fostering teamwork, emphasizing their pivotal role in shaping the future of baseball. Additionally, Chirinos reflects on his time in MLB and the state of baseball in Venezuela. Robinson further delves into Baseball United's impact and future, driving the expansion of baseball into new regions and inspiring young players. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Baseball's Best Player Ronald Acuña Jr. Joining Baseball United Ownership Group | 02 Apr 2024 | 00:01:59 | |
Baseball United adds reigning National League MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. to their prestigious ownership group. Acuna made history last season as he became the first player to hit at least 40 home runs and steal at least 70 bases in a single season. A four time All-Star, the 26-year old becomes Baseball United’s youngest Co-Owner and fourth Venezuelan-born MLB star to invest, joining Felix Hernandez, Elvis Andrus, and Robinson Chirinos in their mission to inspire one billion new fans to fall in love with the game of baseball. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Interview With Baseball United Chairman, CEO, & Co-Founder Kash Shaikh | 27 Mar 2024 | 00:56:17 | |
In the debut episode of The Baseball United Podcast, join host Liam Skiffington as he sits down for an exclusive conversation with Baseball United's Chairman, CEO & Co-Founder Kash Shaikh. From navigating the challenges of starting a new league to fostering the unique Baseball United culture and determining the right people to work with, Kash shares personal insights into the journey of Baseball United. Kash also gives us the inside scoop on Baseball United's groundbreaking partnership with Saudi Arabia and the strategic vision driving the creation of new franchises in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| The Baseball United Podcast | 22 Mar 2024 | 00:00:30 | |
The Baseball United Podcast serves as the premier voice for international baseball, spotlighting the first-ever professional league in the Middle East and its role in globalizing the game. Through breaking news, exclusive interviews, and deep dives into the cultural and strategic facets of Baseball United, we aim to foster a global community united by a love for baseball. This podcast is a celebration of the sport's international journey, offering insights into how Baseball United is influencing baseball's landscape worldwide. Each episode invites listeners to explore the rich diversity and shared passions that connect fans and players across continents. Join us to witness the unfolding story of baseball's expansion, where every play and personality contributes to the sport's global heritage. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| SVP Of Emerging Markets Max Shaukat On Pushing The Boundaries Of Baseball | 13 Dec 2024 | 00:41:20 | |
Max Shaukat, Baseball United's SVP of Emerging Markets and a veteran in the sports and entertainment industry, joins the show to share his remarkable journey. Known for his instrumental role in bringing professional cricket to the United States, Max discusses the parallels between his cricket experience and his mission to help pioneer professional baseball in the Middle East. He dives into topics like the leadership of Baseball United's founder, Kash Shaikh, the rapid growth of the league, and the significance of the Arab Classic. Max also highlights fan engagement strategies, the importance of education in building a love for the sport, and how Baseball United is creating a foundation for the game’s growth in the region. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Eddie Diaz On Baseball’s Breakthrough In The UAE | 05 Dec 2024 | 00:39:23 | |
Eddie Diaz, manager of the UAE National Baseball Team, brings years of leadership experience to the game. In this episode, he discusses the historic Arab Classic tournament, the rapid construction of Baseball United Ballpark, and the journey of the UAE National Team. Diaz explores the challenges of building team chemistry, the strategies used during the tournament, and the future of baseball in the UAE. He shares his insights on player development, the importance of creating opportunities for young athletes, and the impact of fostering a thriving baseball culture in the region. Diaz concludes with reflections on the team’s growth, the significance of this milestone for the UAE, and his vision for the sport’s expansion in the Middle East. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| The Future of Saudi Baseball With Jean-Michel Mayeur | 25 Oct 2024 | 00:26:33 | |
Jean-Michel Mayeur, Technical Director for the Saudi Baseball and Softball Federation, has over 25 years of experience in the game. In this episode, he shares his journey from player to coach, the challenges of developing baseball in Saudi Arabia, and the importance of grassroots initiatives for growing the sport. Mayeur delves into youth development, the potential for baseball in Saudi Arabia as part of the kingdom’s broader sports strategy, and the excitement surrounding the upcoming Arab Classic. He also discusses the significance of the Saudi national team's participation, the impact of the new Baseball United Ballpark, and how Baseball United's unique approach to development is setting the stage for a bright future. Mayeur also emphasizes baseball’s unifying power and its role in bridging cultures, while laying out a vision for the sport’s continued growth in the region. Tickets to the Baseball United Arab Classic can be found exclusively at Platinumlist. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Chris Beyers On Inspiring the Next Generation of UAE Baseball Players | 11 Oct 2024 | 00:30:33 | |
Arabia Wolves infielder Chris Beyers shares his remarkable journey, from growing up in Saudi Arabia to becoming one of the first players selected for the UAE’s inaugural national baseball team. As the Baseball United Arab Classic approaches (November 7-10), Chris reflects on his recent professional season in Germany and his childhood memories of representing Saudi Arabia in the 2007 and 2008 Little League World Series. Born in South Africa, he also touches on the pride of representing his country in the World Baseball Classic. Chris dives into the significance of the UAE getting its first ballpark and how it symbolizes the growth of baseball in the region. He talks about his role as a mentor for the next generation of UAE players and the impact the national team will have on sparking more interest in the sport. Chris also praises Baseball United’s Chairman & CEO Kash Shaikh for his pivotal role in bringing the UAE team to life and guiding the league’s exciting trajectory. As the Baseball United Arab Classic nears, Chris eagerly anticipates the tournament’s role in continuing to expand the game. Tickets to the Baseball United Arab Classic can be found exclusively at Platinumlist. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Baseball United Arab Classic Tickets On Sale Now | 09 Oct 2024 | 00:01:56 | |
The 2024 Baseball United Arab Classic is set to take place from November 7th to November 10th at the new Baseball United Ballpark in Dubai. This historic tournament will showcase national teams from nine nations across the Middle East and South Asia, including the debut of the UAE national team. With limited seating and tickets starting at 49 AED, fans are encouraged to secure their spots early. Tickets are available exclusively through Platinumlist. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||
| Arabia Wolves Outfielder Connor Panas Driven By The Passion To Win | 05 Oct 2024 | 00:33:39 | |
Arabia Wolves outfielder Connor Panas joins the show to share insights from over a decade of professional baseball. Drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays in 2015, Connor reached Triple-A before transitioning to the independent leagues. As a longtime member of the Canadian National Team, he discusses the meaning of representing his country in international tournaments and the added pressure that comes with it. Connor reflects on last year’s All-Star Showcase, highlighting how Baseball United successfully brought together so many talented individuals for a greater mission. He emphasizes the influence of Baseball United’s leaders, including Chairman & CEO Kash Shaikh and the legendary ownership group. Connor expresses his enthusiasm for the league’s role in growing baseball internationally, what it means to be one of the first players to help bring the sport to the region, and his excitement to return to Dubai and compete. Stay in the Loop: Follow Baseball United on Social Media! | |||