ABCA Podcast

2026 ABCA/Soldier Sports NCAA Div. I Assistant Coach of the Year, Scott Jackson, is one of the most respected assistant coaches and recruiters in college baseball—and someone who has spent more than two decades helping build winning programs and develop players at the highest level. Jackson has been a key part of some of the most successful stretches in both North Carolina and Liberty baseball history, taking the 2026 Tar Heels team to the CWS Championship Series. During his first stint in Chapel Hill, Jackson helped the Tar Heels go 345-156, make three College World Series appearances, reach six straight NCAA Regionals, and win the 2013 ACC Championship. Jackson was also instrumental in building those Carolina rosters, helping recruit eight first-round MLB Draft picks and more than 40 players who went on to be selected in the draft. His recruiting classes were consistently among the nation's best, including the No. 1-ranked class in 2014 and another top-ranked class in 2016. Then, Jackson took over as head coach at Liberty, where he went 246-181 over eight seasons. He led the Flames to five 30-win seasons, three NCAA Regional appearances, a program-record 43 wins in 2019, and Liberty's first ASUN Championship. Along the way, 15 of his players were selected in the MLB Draft and 16 went on to play professionally. Jackson’s coaching journey stops included Campbell, Barton, Wofford, UNC Wilmington, Liberty, and even the Wilmington Sharks of the Coastal Plain League, where he earned Coach of the Year honors. So today, we're going to talk about what it takes to recruit at an elite level, develop players for professional baseball, build championship programs, and ultimately create a culture that consistently produces winning baseball. This episode is brought to you by Rapsodo Baseball. Great coaching starts with knowing what to work on next. Rapsodo gives coaches the objective data, video, and instant feedback they need to make every rep more purposeful. With 20+ hitting and pitching data points, Live-on-Live capabilities, Seam Orientation, Scripted Sessions, and more, Rapsodo’s PRO 2.0 and PRO 3.0 units help coaches dial in on player development for their athletes with pro-level data and ball-tracking technology. From establishing baselines to validating adjustments and tracking progress, Rapsodo takes the guesswork out of development. Measure what matters. Train with purpose. Learn more by emailing sales@rapsodo.com or visit their website: Rapsodo.com/Baseball. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Download & Subscribe to the Podcast: https://abca.castos.com https://www.abca.org/podcast Online: https://www.abca.org ABCA Member Benefits: https://www.abca.org/benefits Become a Member: https://www.abca.org/apply X/Twitter: https://x.com/abca1945 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abca1945 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABCA1945 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/abca1945

Today’s guest on the ABCA Podcast is ABCA/Soldier Sports High School Div. I Assistant Coach of the Year, Kobe Wixon. Today’s guest is someone who understands that coaching is about far more than what happens between the lines. Wixon led Arizona College Prep to their first ever Arizona 5A State Championship this Spring. Wixon is an award-winning baseball coach, pitching coordinator, educator, and youth pastor based in Arizona. His coaching journey has included stops at the high school, junior high, and collegiate levels, including Arizona Christian University and Westwood High School. But what really sets Wixon apart is the way he approaches player development. He’s passionate about pitching, mental skills, team culture, leadership, and communication—but at the center of all of it is a simple philosophy: people first, always. Relationships matter more than anything else. Wixon is also deeply invested in developing young people away from the baseball field. After earning his degree in education from Northern Arizona University, he worked as a teacher and has served as a youth pastor in the Tempe area, using both ministry and coaching as avenues to help develop the next generation of leaders. He’s also an author and contributor, writing about pitching, mental skills, culture, and the lessons that baseball can teach us about life. You can read his article “No Such Thing as “Little Things” in the July/August 2025 edition of Inside Pitch Magazine . So today, we’re going to talk about pitching development, building a winning culture, the mental side of the game, leadership, relationships, and what it really means to coach the person—not just the player. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Download & Subscribe to the Podcast: https://abca.castos.com https://www.abca.org/podcast Online: https://www.abca.org ABCA Member Benefits: https://www.abca.org/benefits Become a Member: https://www.abca.org/apply X/Twitter: https://x.com/abca1945 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abca1945 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABCA1945 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/abca1945

Today’s guest on the ABCA Podcast is ABCA/Soldier Sports Pacific Association Assistant Coach of the Year, George Carralejo. Carralejo led Santa Ana College to the 3C2A Championship with a 44-7 record overall. Santa Ana had to beat Palomar in a double header on the last day of the championship. Carralejo has spent more than 20 years in the healthcare industry and 16 years coaching athletes at the collegiate, high school, and youth levels. Carralejo’s built sales teams, developed strategies for healthcare organizations, founded an eight-figure healthcare consulting company, and served as a chief strategist for multiple clinical diagnostics startups. Carralejo’s also earned national recognition throughout his corporate career, from Presidents Club honors to national awards as both a Regional Director and National Sales Director. Since 2009, Carralejo’s coached baseball at virtually every level, including serving as the pitching coach for a CIF Champion and a California State JUCO Champion. Along the way, his teams have won five league championships, 44 of his pitchers have earned Division I or Division II scholarships, 23 have received All-Conference recognition, eight former players have reached Major League Baseball, and an incredible 31 MLB Draft picks have played for him. Carralejo is a former Division I player at Cal State Fullerton, he was part of the 1999 Titans team that reached the College World Series, won two Big West Conference Championships, and was also part of a Cape Cod League championship team. In this episode you will get resources on organizational leadership and how to build successful teams in baseball and business. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Download & Subscribe to the Podcast: https://abca.castos.com https://www.abca.org/podcast Online: https://www.abca.org ABCA Member Benefits: https://www.abca.org/benefits Become a Member: https://www.abca.org/apply X/Twitter: https://x.com/abca1945 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abca1945 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABCA1945 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/abca1945

ABCA/Soldier Sports NAIA Assistant Coach of the Year, Justin Barber, is someone who has built his coaching career around developing pitchers and building championship-caliber pitching staffs. Barber finished his ninth season on staff at Taylor University, where he serves as the pitching coach and recruiting coordinator. And over that span, his pitching staffs have consistently ranked among the best in the NAIA. This past season Barber led Taylor University to a 56-7 record, finishing ranked 2nd in the country and played in the NAIA World Series Championship game. The Trojans pitching staff had a 4.73 era and held opponents to a .253 batting average. In 2025, Taylor put together the best regular season in program history at a 41-8 record and finished with a program-record 47 wins, climbed to No. 9 nationally, and captured its third straight Crossroads League regular-season championship and second consecutive tournament title. Barber’s pitching staff was a huge part of that success, ranking second nationally in WHIP, third in opponents’ batting average, and fourth in both ERA and strikeouts per nine innings. The staff also produced the Crossroads League Pitcher of the Year, three first-team all-league selections, an NAIA All-American, and an MLB draft pick. Barber’s track record goes well beyond his time at Taylor. Before arriving in Upland, he spent eight years with the Indiana Chargers, helping more than 90 players reach the collegiate level and working with four pitchers who eventually reached professional baseball, including three MLB draft picks. Barber started his coaching career as a high school varsity head coach and also worked as a pitching and hitting instructor at Great Lakes Baseball Academy. In this episode, we’re going to talk pitching development, recruiting, player development, and what it takes to consistently build a pitching staff that can compete at the highest levels of college baseball. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Download & Subscribe to the Podcast: https://abca.castos.com https://www.abca.org/podcast Online: https://www.abca.org ABCA Member Benefits: https://www.abca.org/benefits Become a Member: https://www.abca.org/apply X/Twitter: https://x.com/abca1945 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abca1945 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABCA1945 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/abca1945

This week on the ABCA Podcast is ABCA/Soldier Sports NJCAA Assistant Coach of the Year Montgomery (MD) College, John Silk. Silk finished his 21st season with the Raptors this Spring leading them to 36 wins, 91 home runs and 505 runs scored. Silk and head coach, Dan Rascher, both came to Montgomery in 2006 and in that time the MC Raptors have had 45 All Americans, 9 Rawlings “Gold Glove” Winners, 9 NJCAA Div. III World Series Appearances and 1 NJCAA Div. II World Series Appearance. Prior to coming to Montgomery, Silk was a head high school coach in the DC Metro area and coached in the college summer leagues. In this episode we cover all aspects of coaching hitters and outfielders. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Download & Subscribe to the Podcast: https://abca.castos.com https://www.abca.org/podcast Online: https://www.abca.org ABCA Member Benefits: https://www.abca.org/benefits Become a Member: https://www.abca.org/apply X/Twitter: https://x.com/abca1945 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abca1945 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABCA1945 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/abca1945

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is ABCA/Soldier Sports NCAA Div. III Assistant Coach of the Year Denison University’s, Ryne Romick. Romick finished his 11th season on the Denison University coaching staff in 2026 and his sixth as Associate Head Coach. Romick led Denison to a 51-3 record, their first National Championship and a 3.14 team ERA coaching the pitchers. In 2025, Denison put together a remarkable 41-7 season, won its fifth straight NCAC regular-season championship and sixth straight conference tournament title, and made program history by advancing to the NCAA Division III World Series for the first time. Along the way, Romick helped develop a pitching staff that produced multiple All-Americans and conference award winners. That success didn't happen overnight. Romick has built an impressive coaching résumé that includes stops at Denison, the University of Dayton, and Ohio University. At Dayton, he helped the Flyers produce their best ERA, walks, and batting-average-against numbers since 2011, while his first stint at Denison included back-to-back NCAC West Division titles. Before becoming a coach, Romick was a standout pitcher at the University of Akron, where he earned Pitcher of the Year honors as a senior after posting a 3.45 ERA and a .208 opponent batting average. Romick later earned his bachelor's degree in biology from Akron and a master's in education from Ohio Valley. And now, after years of coaching, developing arms, and competing at a high level, Romick brings a unique perspective on pitching development, player development, leadership, and what it takes to build a consistently successful college baseball program. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Download & Subscribe to the Podcast: https://abca.castos.com https://www.abca.org/podcast Online: https://www.abca.org ABCA Member Benefits: https://www.abca.org/benefits Become a Member: https://www.abca.org/apply X/Twitter: https://x.com/abca1945 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abca1945 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABCA1945 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/abca1945

Today’s guest is someone who has spent more than 15 years immersed in the game of baseball—not just playing it, but teaching it, coaching it, studying it, and helping shape the next generation of players. Tyler Goodro has worked with thousands of youth, high school, and collegiate athletes as a player development instructor, coach, catching specialist, and scout. His baseball journey has taken him from Creighton Prep, where he was a two-time First Team All-Nebraska selection and helped lead his team to a state championship at historic Rosenblatt Stadium, to college baseball at Arkansas, Butler Community College, and the University of Cincinnati. As a catcher, Goodro helped Butler reach the NJCAA World Series and earned All-Tournament Honorable Mention honors after hitting an incredible .461. Goodro later signed as a non-drafted free agent with the Los Angeles Dodgers and went on to spend five seasons playing professional baseball, gaining firsthand experience alongside and behind the plate with players and coaches who reached the highest levels of the game. But Goodro's impact on baseball goes well beyond his playing career. He's served as an Area Associate Scout for both the Minnesota Twins and Philadelphia Phillies, evaluating talent across Nebraska and Iowa. He's coached at the high school, college, and professional levels, including stops with Creighton Prep, Elkhorn South, the Lincoln Saltdogs, and the University of Nebraska-Omaha. Goodro's also the founder of Goodro Catching, a certified Rapsodo and OnBaseU instructor, and a student of modern player development technologies including TrackMan, K-Vest, FlightScope, and Edgertronic. Goodro has presented at ABCA Barnstormers Clinics, participated in ABCA Catching Hot Stove panels, and has been featured by The Athletic for his expertise in the art of catching. So today, we're going to dive into the world of catching, player development, scouting, recruiting, and what it really takes to develop players from the youth level all the way to professional baseball. And also his current work with the 6Tool app. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Download & Subscribe to the Podcast: https://abca.castos.com https://www.abca.org/podcast Online: https://www.abca.org ABCA Member Benefits: https://www.abca.org/benefits Become a Member: https://www.abca.org/apply X/Twitter: https://x.com/abca1945 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abca1945 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABCA1945 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/abca1945

Next up on the ABCA Podcast are Krista Ross and Joe Pennucci. Ross is Senior Manager of Athletic Programs & Partnerships at NMDP (formerly Be The Match) who provides leadership and strategic direction for the nationally recognized NMDP Get in the Game® program. Ross was Co-founder of the Andy Talley Bone Marrow Foundation and spent 12 years as ATBMF's Executive Director. Ross has spent 16 years leveraging the power of sports to drive life-saving impact and leads the only athletics-based blood stem cell donor recruitment program of its kind in the United States. Ross has helped grow Get in the Game into one of NMDP's most impactful donor recruitment initiatives. Through partnerships with coaches, student-athletes, and athletic departments nationwide, the program has connected hundreds of thousands of young adults and has resulted in more than 2,100 donations, helping save lives for patients battling blood cancers and blood disorders. Pennucci has been the head coach at East Tennessee State University since 2017 after a successful stint as recruiting coordinator at Stony Brook. Pennucci joins us to give his insights on the donation and treatment process with his Father. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Download & Subscribe to the Podcast: https://abca.castos.com https://www.abca.org/podcast Online: https://www.abca.org ABCA Member Benefits: https://www.abca.org/benefits Become a Member: https://www.abca.org/apply X/Twitter: https://x.com/abca1945 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abca1945 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABCA1945 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/abca1945

This week’s ABCA Podcast was recorded on location from Eastlake, Ohio, at the NCAA Division III World Series. We are handing hosting duties off to Jim Koerner, Assistant Executive Director-Coaching Development, who was covering the event. To capture as many conversations as possible, we’re splitting our coverage into two episodes. In Part II, we sit down with: Troy Brohawn – Salisbury University, Craig Rainey – Adrian College and Mike Deegan – Denison University. These coaches share their thoughts on competing on the biggest stage in Division III baseball. A special congratulations to ABCA Member Mike Deegan and Denison University on capturing their first NCAA Division III National Championship. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Download & Subscribe to the Podcast: https://abca.castos.com https://www.abca.org/podcast Online: https://www.abca.org ABCA Member Benefits: https://www.abca.org/benefits Become a Member: https://www.abca.org/apply X/Twitter: https://x.com/abca1945 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abca1945 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABCA1945 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/abca1945

This week’s ABCA Podcast was recorded on location from Eastlake, Ohio, at the NCAA Division III World Series. We are handing hosting duties off to Jim Koerner, Assistant Executive Director-Coaching Development, who was covering the event. To capture as many conversations as possible, we’re splitting our coverage into two episodes. In Part I, we sit down with: Nate Mulberg – Johns Hopkins University, Jared Hood – East Texas Baptist University, Bryan Haley – Endicott College and Mike Dickson – Rowan College. These coaches share their thoughts on competing on the biggest stage in Division III baseball. A special congratulations to ABCA Member Mike Deegan and Denison University on capturing their first NCAA Division III National Championship. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Download & Subscribe to the Podcast: https://abca.castos.com https://www.abca.org/podcast Online: https://www.abca.org ABCA Member Benefits: https://www.abca.org/benefits Become a Member: https://www.abca.org/apply X/Twitter: https://x.com/abca1945 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abca1945 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABCA1945 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/abca1945

This week’s ABCA Podcast was recorded on location from Cary, North Carolina, at the NCAA Division II World Series. Since 2009, the city of Cary has hosted the NCAA Division II World Series and has become one of the premier championship destinations in college baseball. To capture as many conversations as possible, we’re splitting our coverage into two episodes. In Part II, we sit down with: Mike Hill – Bentley University Al Ready – University of Indianapolis Kyle Crookes – University of Central Missouri Mike LaRosa – West Chester University These coaches share insights on navigating the postseason, building championship-caliber programs, and competing on one of the biggest stages in Division II baseball. A special congratulations to ABCA Member Joe Urso and the University of Tampa on capturing a third consecutive NCAA Division II National Championship. The title was Urso’s eighth national championship, further cementing his place among the most accomplished coaches in college baseball history. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Download & Subscribe to the Podcast: https://abca.castos.com https://www.abca.org/podcast Online: https://www.abca.org ABCA Member Benefits: https://www.abca.org/benefits Become a Member: https://www.abca.org/apply X/Twitter: https://x.com/abca1945 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abca1945 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABCA1945 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/abca1945

Cary, NC has been the premier home of the NCAA Div. II Baseball National Finals since 2009, hosting the championship event nearly every year at the USA Baseball National Training Complex. This will be part I of on-location episodes we will hear from Catawba’s Jim Gantt, Point Loma’s Justin James, UT-Tyler’s Brent Porche and Tampa University’s Joe Urso. Congrats to Tampa University’s Joe Urso for winning his eighth NCAA Div. II Championship and an unprecedented 3-Peat. As always, I appreciate the coaches for taking time out of their schedules to sit down with me. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Download & Subscribe to the Podcast: https://abca.castos.com https://www.abca.org/podcast Online: https://www.abca.org ABCA Member Benefits: https://www.abca.org/benefits Become a Member: https://www.abca.org/apply X/Twitter: https://x.com/abca1945 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abca1945 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABCA1945 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/abca1945

This week’s ABCA Podcast was recorded on location from Lewiston, Idaho, at the NAIA World Series. The ABCA and the Lewiston community continued one of the tournament’s great traditions by hosting a youth baseball clinic the night before the tournament began, welcoming more than 500 young players this year. The opening ceremonies before Friday night’s final game also remain one of the most unique and memorable traditions in college baseball. For 24 years, Lewis-Clark State and the city of Lewiston have hosted the NAIA National Tournament, creating one of the best championship environments in the game. To capture as many conversations as possible, we’re splitting our coverage into two episodes. In Part II, we sit down with: Dave Serrano - Johnson University Tommy Goodale - Georgia Gwinnett College Gabe Grinder - Southeastern University Brett Stanton - Mid-America Christian University Josh Oltmans - Doane University A special congratulations to ABCA Member Billy Berry and Tennessee Wesleyan on capturing their third NAIA National Championship. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

This week’s ABCA Podcast was recorded on location from Lewiston, Idaho, at the NAIA World Series. The ABCA and the Lewiston community continued one of the tournament’s great traditions by hosting a youth baseball clinic the night before the tournament began, welcoming more than 500 young players this year. The opening ceremonies before Friday night’s final game also remain one of the most unique and memorable traditions in college baseball. For 24 years, Lewis-Clark State and the city of Lewiston have hosted the NAIA National Tournament, creating one of the best championship environments in the game. To capture as many conversations as possible, we’re splitting our coverage into two episodes. In Part I, we sit down with: Vincent Tornincasa – IU Southeast Jeremiah Robbins – Lewis-Clark State Kyle Gould – Taylor University Billy Berry – Tennessee Wesleyan A special congratulations to Billy Berry and Tennessee Wesleyan on capturing their third NAIA National Championship. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

We’re continuing our discussion from last week's episode as we hand the microphone back over to Tyrone Brooks for Part II of our two-part mental health series. Brooks is a key member of the ABCA’s Frank Robinson BATS (Building Accessibility Through Support) Committee and serves as Senior Director of Workforce Development for Major League Baseball. Joining him for this important conversation this week are Dr. Yarlie Nicolas and James Jones. Dr. Nicolas is a Human Performance Consultant and Mental Health Strategist who works with leaders, athletes, and organizations to thrive in high-performance environments while prioritizing mental well-being. Jones, a former Major League player, now serves as Mental Performance Coordinator for the Texas Rangers, helping athletes develop the mental skills necessary to perform at their best. Together, they explore the challenges of maintaining mental health in competitive environments, the importance of support systems, and practical ways to prioritize well-being while pursuing excellence. As we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month, this episode serves as an important reminder that none of us are alone. If you or someone you know needs support, help is available. Call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

We’re doing something a little different on this week’s ABCA Podcast as we hand the microphone over to Tyrone Brooks for Part II of our two-part mental health series. Brooks is a key member of the ABCA’s Frank Robinson BATS (Building Accessibility Through Support) Committee and serves as Senior Director of Workforce Development for Major League Baseball. Joining him for this important conversation are Jadyn Lewis and Travis Snider. Lewis is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who is a Mental Health Counselor at the University of Missouri. Providing mental health services to student-athletes in need of support. Snider is a former big leaguer who is now the CEO of 3A Athletics, a company dedicated to helping the parents of young athletes, organizations and clubs and youth athletes. Together, they explore the challenges of maintaining mental health in competitive environments, the importance of support systems, and practical ways to prioritize well-being while pursuing excellence. As we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month, this episode serves as an important reminder that none of us are alone. If you or someone you know needs support, help is available. Call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Today’s ABCA Podcast guest is one of the baseball minds behind one of the most respected player development turnarounds in modern Major League Baseball. Kyle Stark spent years helping shape the Pittsburgh Pirates (07’-19’) organization, serving as Director of Player Development before rising to Assistant General Manager and Vice President/Assistant GM. During that stretch, he played a major role in rebuilding the Pirates’ farm system and helping guide the club back into postseason contention in the mid-2010s. Before his time in Pittsburgh, Stark also worked in baseball operations with the Cleveland Indians (04’-07’), building a reputation as a thoughtful leader with a deep understanding of organizational development, culture, and talent growth. But what makes Stark’s perspective unique is that his work extends far beyond baseball. Since leaving the Pirates organization, Stark’s transitioned into leadership coaching and consulting, helping teams, businesses, and organizations build stronger cultures, improve communication, and maximize performance with his company Stark Contrast. From player development and front office strategy to leadership and culture-building, this conversation is packed with insight for coaches, athletes, executives, and anyone interested in building winning organizations. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Download & Subscribe to the Podcast: https://abca.castos.com https://www.abca.org/podcast Online: https://www.abca.org ABCA Member Benefits: https://www.abca.org/benefits Become a Member: https://www.abca.org/apply X/Twitter: https://x.com/abca1945 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abca1945 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ ABCA1945 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/abca1945

Today’s ABCA Podcast guest is one of the most beloved personalities to ever step on a Major League field. A three-time MLB All-Star and 12-year big league veteran, Sean Casey—better known as ‘The Mayor’—built a reputation not just for his bat, but for the way he connected with everyone around him. From his standout years with the Cincinnati Reds to stints with the Cleveland Indians, Pittsburgh Pirates, Detroit Tigers, and Boston Red Sox, Casey was one of the purest hitters and most respected teammates in the game. Off the field, that same energy carried over. Since retiring, Casey’s become a staple on MLB Network, sharing insight and passion for the game, and even stepped into the dugout as the New York Yankees’ hitting coach in 2023. Casey is the host of ‘The Mayor’s Office,’ where he brings that same charisma into conversations with athletes, entertainers, and leaders from all walks of life. Known as one of the friendliest guys in baseball, Casey brings knowledge, authenticity, and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. Casey also has an 8-week mental performance program out now, Breakthrough Pro, you can find that at breakthrough-pro.com. Baseball is a story told across generations — through the players, the moments, and the gloves that shape the game. Now, that story comes to life in Rawlings’ "The Finest in the Field" book, available now for pre-sale at Rawlings.com! Each of the 50 gloves is presented through detailed photography and paired with immersive essays that place the artifact within its historical context. Captivating imagery, period advertisements, and additional memorabilia further illuminate the era each glove represents.Reserve your copy today at Rawlings.com and be among the first to experience baseball’s evolution as told through the story of these iconic gloves. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Download & Subscribe to the Podcast: https://abca.castos.com https://www.abca.org/podcast Online: https://www.abca.org ABCA Member Benefits: https://www.abca.org/benefits Become a Member: https://www.abca.org/apply X/Twitter: https://x.com/abca1945 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abca1945 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABCA1945 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/abca1945

Today’s ABCA Podcast guest is at the forefront of research where nutrition, exercise, and cutting-edge science all collide. We’re joined by Dr. Catherine Saenz, Assistant Professor at Ohio State University, whose work focuses on how training and nutrition influence the molecular mechanisms behind energy metabolism. Her research tackles big questions around optimizing performance, recovery, and long-term health, with a strong emphasis on moving beyond one-size-fits-all approaches. Dr. Saenz is leading the charge toward personalized performance strategies, helping athletes better understand how to fuel and recover based on their individual needs. Her experience includes working with collegiate baseball players and professionally with the Cleveland Guardians, bringing real-world application to her scientific expertise. In this episode, we dive into a wide range of topics including nutrition timing, recovery strategies, metabolic health, and how coaches and players can better align training with fueling to maximize results. Baseball is a story told across generations — through the players, the moments, and the gloves that shape the game. Now, that story comes to life in Rawlings’ "The Finest in the Field" book, available now for pre-sale at Rawlings.com! Each of the 50 gloves is presented through detailed photography and paired with immersive essays that place the artifact within its historical context. Captivating imagery, period advertisements, and additional memorabilia further illuminate the era each glove represents.Reserve your copy today at Rawlings.com and be among the first to experience baseball’s evolution as told through the story of these iconic gloves. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Download & Subscribe to the Podcast: https://abca.castos.com https://www.abca.org/podcast Online: https://www.abca.org ABCA Member Benefits: https://www.abca.org/benefits Become a Member: https://www.abca.org/apply X/Twitter: https://x.com/abca1945 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abca1945 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABCA1945 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/abca1945

Today’s ABCA Podcast guest is a leader, builder, and one of the driving forces behind player development and culture in Midwest baseball and fastpitch. Jake Banwart is the Co-Owner and President of BAMFAM, where he wears multiple hats—from Director of Operations to Infield and Mindset Coordinator, all while leading teams like the BAM 2029 Signature squad and FAM 11U Prime. Banwart is also the Co-Owner of The Lab Sports Performance, continuing his work in developing athletes both physically and mentally, and serves as President of Midwest Ghost National, where he coaches at the 2029 level. Banwart built a reputation as a winning high school coach. At Perry Meridian, he led the program to multiple county championship appearances and the winningest three-year stretch in school history. He also made history at Liberty Christian with the program’s only conference championship and single season wins record, and was part of a state championship staff at Daleville. Known for his focus on culture, mindset, and infield development, Banwart brings a unique, holistic approach to building athletes and teams. Baseball is a story told across generations — through the players, the moments, and the gloves that shape the game. Now, that story comes to life in Rawlings’ "The Finest in the Field" book, avail able now for pre-sale at Rawlings.com! Each of the 50 gloves is presented through detailed photography and paired with immersive essays that place the artifact within its historical context. Captivating imagery, period advertisements, and additional memorabilia further illuminate the era each glove represents.Reserve your copy today at Rawlings.com and be among the first to experience baseball’s evolution as told through the story of these iconic gloves. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Download & Subscribe to the Podcast: https://abca.castos.com https://www.abca.org/podcast Online: https://www.abca.org ABCA Member Benefits: https://www.abca.org/benefits Become a Member: https://www.abca.org/apply X/Twitter: https://x.com/abca1945 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abca1945 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABCA1945 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/abca1945