Big League Dreaming The Podcast

Join John Gonzalez and his sons, Zak and Ty, as they dive into the world of baseball on "Big League Dreaming the Podcast." In this episode, Zak shares the enchanting tale of the Mariners Etsy Witch, a story that has seemingly sparked the team's recent success. The family also takes a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminiscing about Bob the Rally Log from their Little League days. It's a wholesome, heartwarming show where a dad and his sons bond over the game they love. Tune in for laughter, memories, and a shared passion for baseball.

In this episode of Big League Dreaming, John Gonzalez and his sons, Zak and Ty, welcome special guest Sam Dykstra from MLB Pipeline. They discuss the top prospects for 2026, focusing on Nolan McLean, a promising pitcher for the Mets, and Kevin McGonigal, a standout hitter in the minor leagues. Sam shares insights into the challenges and strategies of ranking prospects, the impact of new MLB rules, and his personal journey in baseball journalism.

The guys discuss all the drama in the postseason, as well as who will win all the MAJOR awards! The conversation takes a turn as it always does into the future of the Detroit Tigers, focusing on the pivotal role of Tarik Skubal in their potential success. The discussion highlights the tough decisions the team faces regarding whether to retain Skubal for another season or trade him for valuable prospects, weighing the risks and rewards of each option.

On this special podcast, John, Zak and Ty Gonzalez of Big League Dreaming recap the Seattle Mariners 8-4 win over the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park (Oct. 7, 2025). John and Zak recap their experience at the recent Tigers vs. Mariners game, discussing the excitement of game day, the impact of a rain delay, and their predictions for the upcoming games. They share personal anecdotes about fan interactions, the atmosphere at the stadium, and insights into the pitching matchups. The conversation highlights the emotional rollercoaster of being a baseball fan and the importance of family and community in the experience.John and Ty will be going to today's elimination game at 3:08 p.m. ET at Comerica Park. The Mariners lead the best of 5 series, 2-1. If the Tigers win, they will travel back to Seattle for a winner take all Game 5. We will have a recap later tonight or Thursday morning.Chapters00:00 Post-Game Reflections: Tigers vs. Mariners Game 311:09 Game Day Predictions and Analysis22:10 Looking Ahead: Elimination Game Dynamics

Game 3 Predictions - 2025 ALDS Detroit Tigers vs. Seattle MarinersIn this episode of Big League Dreaming the Podcast, John and Zak Gonzalez discuss the excitement surrounding the playoff games between the Tigers and Mariners. They reflect on past playoff experiences, analyze team performances, and make predictions for the upcoming games. The conversation highlights the unpredictability of playoff baseball and the significance of player matchups.John and Zak recorded this episode before Game 3 in Detroit at Comerica Park.TakeawaysThe excitement of attending a playoff game together for the first time.The unpredictability of playoff baseball keeps fans engaged.Team dynamics can change significantly from previous seasons.Pitching matchups are crucial in determining game outcomes.The importance of a strong bullpen in playoff series.Player performances can swing the momentum of a game.Fan support and atmosphere play a role in playoff games.Predictions can vary widely based on team form and injuries.The significance of individual player contributions in critical moments.The bond between father and son is strengthened through shared sports experiences.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Playoff Excitement02:34 Analyzing the Teams and Game Predictions05:26 Player Performances and Key Matchups08:08 Final Thoughts and Predictions for the Series

In this episode of Big League Dreaming, host John Gonzalez and his sons discuss the upcoming implementation of the Automated Ball Strike (ABS) system in Major League Baseball (MLB) set for 2026. They are joined by Sam Perry, who provides insights into the technology behind ABS, its impact on the game, and how it will change the dynamics between players and umpires. The conversation also touches on fan engagement and the potential strategies teams might employ with the new challenge system.

Big League Dreaming The Podcast - Can the Whitecaps Win It All This Year?In this episode of Bigly Dreaming, John and Ty Gonzalez discuss the excitement surrounding minor league baseball, particularly focusing on the West Michigan Whitecaps and their playoff journey. They reflect on the team's success, player development, and the dynamics of minor league playoffs. The conversation also touches on player rehabilitation, the impact of moving players up to the majors, and the upcoming Arizona Fall League.A show about fulfilling your dreams and taking it to the next level. Life is built on dreams.A family podcast about pursuing your Big League Dreams.Where to listen to the podcastSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/51WmGrQyjEgrZ0cP9uV9B5Anchor: https://anchor.fm/big-league-dreaming-the-podcastGoogle Podcasts: https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy81OWU0M2ExNC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw==Breaker: https://www.breaker.audio/big-league-dreaming-the-podcastPocket Casts: https://pca.st/h3v0lgceRadioPublic: https://radiopublic.com/big-league-dreaming-the-podcast-853orxWhere to follow us atTwitter: @BLDPODTikTok: @bigleaguedreamingTimecodes00:00 Introduction to Big League Dreaming Podcast02:48 Minor League Baseball Playoffs Overview05:40 The Whitecaps' Success and Player Development08:14 Rehab Assignments and Player Movements11:08 Upcoming Playoff Matchups14:07 Team Dynamics and Player Roles16:50 Looking Ahead: Arizona Fall League

Big League Dreaming - The Podcast is a family show about baseball, dreams and family. In this episode of Big League Dreaming, former youth baseball coach John Gonzalez and his son Zane (IUSB associate head coach) discuss the excitement surrounding the 2025 Little League World Series, the upcoming MLB Little League Classic game (Seattle Mariners vs. NY Mets), and the importance of community in youth baseball. The Little League World is Aug. 13-24, 2025. All games on ESPN. The finals are on ABC.The MLB Little League Classic is at 7 p.m. Aug. 17 on ESPN.On the podcast, John and Zane delve into pitching rules, strategies for managing games, and the unique experiences of young players. The conversation highlights the joy of baseball and the connections it fosters among families and communities.TakeawaysThe Little League World Series is a significant event for young athletes.Pitching rules in Little League are designed to protect young arms.The Little League Classic game provides a unique experience for MLB players and fans.Community involvement is crucial in LL and youth sports.The atmosphere of the Little League World Series is filled with excitement and joy.Players often miss their first days of school to participate in the series.The importance of fun in youth baseball is emphasized.Changes in youth baseball have shifted the focus from local teams to travel teams.The MLB's efforts to create intimate settings for games are appreciated by players.Future BLD episodes will feature insights from past Little League coaches.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Big League Dreaming02:55 Current State of Major League Baseball Teams05:40 Little League World Series Overview08:30 Pitching Dynamics in Little League11:24 Major League Baseball Little League Classic14:03 The Impact of Little League on Youth Baseball16:48 Monet Davis and Women's Professional Baseball19:28 Looking Ahead to the Championship Game22:28 Conclusion and Future Episodes

Big League Dreaming The PodcastA show about fulfilling your dreams and taking it to the next level. Life is built on dreams. A family podcast about pursuing your Big League Dreams.Way Too Early MLB Playoff Predictions 2025In this episode of Big League Dreaming, John Gonzalez and his sons discuss their favorite baseball teams and make early predictions for the 2025 playoffs. They analyze the performance of the Mariners, Red Sox, Tigers, and other teams in the American League, as well as the competitive landscape of the National League. The conversation highlights the excitement of the upcoming playoffs, the impact of recent trades, and the future prospects of various teams, particularly the Red Sox.Where to listen to the podcastSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/51WmGrQyjEgrZ0cP9uV9B5Anchor: https://anchor.fm/big-league-dreaming-the-podcastGoogle Podcasts: https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy81OWU0M2ExNC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw==Breaker: https://www.breaker.audio/big-league-dreaming-the-podcastPocket Casts: https://pca.st/h3v0lgceRadioPublic: https://radiopublic.com/big-league-dreaming-the-podcast-853orxWhere to follow us atTwitter: @BLDPODTikTok: @bigleaguedreamingTimecodes00:00 Introduction to Big League Dreaming02:27 Playoff Predictions Overview05:14 American League East Analysis09:57 American League Central Insights10:49 American League West Discussion17:31 National League Overview20:21 National League Dynamics22:31 Brewers' Resurgence and Managerial Excellence25:00 Dodgers vs. Padres: A Division Showdown27:06 Wild Card Predictions and Team Performance30:45 Red Sox's Future: Young Talent and Extensions33:40 Mariners' Prospects and Trade Strategies

Big League Dreaming The Podcast - A show with a dad and his three sons, talking about baseball, dreams and family. In this episode, John Gonzalez (the dad, and our resident Tigers fan) and Zane Gonzalez (son No. 3 and the resident Red Sox fan) discuss the excitement surrounding the MLB All-Star break, the surprising performance of the Red Sox, and their predictions for the upcoming 2025 Home Run Derby. They analyze the participants, the format of the event, and share their thoughts on which players might shine. The conversation highlights the joy of baseball and family, making it a perfect listen for fans. They also ponder: Can anyone beat Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners. Oldest son Zak (Mariners fan) and middle son Ty (Mets fan) will have to make their predictions in the comments.Participants this year include: Cal Raleigh (Seattle Mariners), James Wood (Washington Nationals), Byron Buxton (Minnesota Twins), Oneil Cruz (Pittsburgh Pirates), Junior Caminero (Tampa Bay Rays), Brent Rooker (Athletics), Jazz Chisholm Jr. (New York Yankees), and Matt Olson (Atlanta Braves).The T-Mobile 2025 HR Derby airs at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN and ESPN2.

In this episode of Big League Dreaming, John Gonzalez and sons Zak and Ty discuss the often-overlooked position of catcher in baseball. They share personal experiences, favorite catchers, and insights into the evolution of catching techniques. The conversation highlights legendary catchers like Johnny Bench and Mike Piazza, as well as emerging talents like Cal Raleigh and prospect Caden Bodine of Coastal Carolina, who is expected to be drafted in the first round in July 2025. The episode concludes with a preview of the College World Series, showcasing the excitement of the game.

In this episode of Big League Dreaming, host John Gonzalez and his sons Zak and Zane welcome Jim 'Mojo' Morrison, a seasoned baseball enthusiast with a rich history in the sport. They discuss Mojo's journey from a young fan to a coach and official scorekeeper, touching on the importance of teaching fundamentals to young players, the impact of technology in baseball, and the challenges faced by youth baseball today. The conversation also explores the evolution of international baseball and the role of the pitch clock in modern games, emphasizing the need for a balance between analytics and traditional baseball values.

What does everyone think? Can the Tigers do it this year?

In this episode, the hosts dive into their predictions for the College World Series, analyzing various regional matchups and discussing the strengths and weaknesses of different teams. They reflect on the excitement of the NCAA selection show, the surprising absence of top-ranked teams like Texas A&M and Virginia, and the potential for upsets in the regionals. The conversation highlights key players, team dynamics, and the historical context of college baseball, all while maintaining a familial and engaging atmosphere. In this episode, the hosts discuss various college baseball regionals, analyzing team strengths, potential matchups, and standout players. They provide insights into the performance of teams like Georgia, North Carolina, LSU, and Tennessee, while also highlighting underdog teams that could surprise in the tournament. The conversation emphasizes the excitement and unpredictability of college baseball, especially during the regional rounds leading up to the College World Series.

A show about fulfilling your dreams and taking it to the next level. Life is built on dreams.A family podcast about pursuing your Big League Dreams.In this episode of Big League Dreaming, John Gonzalez and his sons discuss their favorite ballpark foods in a fun and engaging draft format. They explore classic stadium snacks like hot dogs, peanuts, and nachos, while also sharing personal anecdotes and memories from past games. The conversation highlights the joy of baseball and family, culminating in a light-hearted debate over who has the best picks. The episode wraps up with plans for future food drafts and a call for listener engagement.Where to listen to the podcastSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/51WmGrQ...Anchor: https://anchor.fm/big-league-dreaming...Google Podcasts: https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=...Breaker: https://www.breaker.audio/big-league-...Pocket Casts: https://pca.st/h3v0lgceRadioPublic: https://radiopublic.com/big-league-dr...Where to follow us atTwitter: @BLDPODTikTok: @bigleaguedreamingTimecodes00:00 Introduction to Big League Dreaming03:04 Drafting Favorite Ballpark Foods06:07 Exploring Classic Ballpark Snacks09:02 The Importance of Ice Cream at Games11:59 Nostalgic Ballpark Favorites15:07 Final Picks and Honorable Mentions19:59 Ballpark Food Draft Begins30:11 Honorable Mentions and Final Picks35:51 Reflections on Ballpark Experiences

In this episode of Big League Dreaming, host John Gonzalez and his son Zak discuss the upcoming baseball season with Steve McCarthy and Jim Jarecki from the West Michigan Whitecaps. They delve into the significance of the Whitecaps as a minor league affiliate for the Detroit Tigers, the excitement surrounding new prospects, and the renovations at LMCU Ballpark. The conversation highlights the evolution of the Tigers' minor league system, the anticipation for opening day, and the impact of legendary players on the development of young talent.

Big League Dreaming The Podcast - In this episode of Big League Dreaming, John Gonzalez and his sons Zak and Ty discuss the excitement of spring training 2025, the advancements in pitching and hitting, and the upcoming Spring Breakout games. They delve into the new ABS system, the dynamics of pitching versus hitting, and share their predictions for the season ahead.Big League Dreaming the Podcast, a show about fulfilling your dreams and taking it to the next level. Life is built on dreams.A family podcast about pursuing your Big League Dreams.Where to listen to the podcastSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/51WmGrQ...Anchor: https://anchor.fm/big-league-dreaming...Google Podcasts: https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=...Breaker: https://www.breaker.audio/big-league-...Pocket Casts: https://pca.st/h3v0lgceRadioPublic: https://radiopublic.com/big-league-dr...Where to follow us atTwitter: @BLDPODTikTok: @bigleaguedreaming

SummaryIn this episode of Big League Dreaming, the hosts discuss the kickoff of the college baseball season, highlighting key performances, team dynamics, and coaching styles. They delve into Cincinnati's surprising success, the challenges faced by northern teams, and the excitement surrounding the upcoming season. The conversation also touches on predictions for the Omaha tournament and the impact of new technologies in baseball, such as ABS systems. The episode wraps up with a look ahead to spring training and the evolving landscape of college baseball.

On this episode the guys rip some brand new topps product!

Big League Dreaming The Podcast - A show about Baseball, dreams and family. It's a dad and his three sons talking about the game they love. The dad is John Gonzalez, longtime coach and founder of the Grand Rapids Flames travel baseball club, and sons Zak, Ty and Zane, who are all still involved with the game one way or another. All three pitched collegiately.To us, baseball is more than a game, it’s life, and life is made up of dreams. Our goal is to bring families together through inspirational stories and following our passion for all levels of the game.On this special Podcast, it’s an interview between John Gonzalez and oldest son, Zak, our resident Mariners fan who is based in Charlotte, NC. They talk about the return of baseball with the Caribbean Series, as well as college baseball.The interview was on Jan. 25 when John filled in as host of the Sports Project Show on WYGR in Grand Rapids.Where to listen to the podcastSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/51WmGrQyjEgrZ0cP9uV9B5Anchor: https://anchor.fm/big-league-dreaming-the-podcastGoogle Podcasts: https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy81OWU0M2ExNC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw==Breaker: https://www.breaker.audio/big-league-dreaming-the-podcastPocket Casts: https://pca.st/h3v0lgceRadioPublic: https://radiopublic.com/big-league-dreaming-the-podcast-853orxWhere to follow us atTwitter: @BLDPODTikTok: @bigleaguedreaming