Pacific Swings

In this episode of Pacific Swings, we sit down with Lewis Brinson — first-round pick, centerpiece of one of MLB's most talked-about trades, and the man who wore number 42 at the Tokyo Dome for the Yomiuri Giants in 2023.Lewis opens up about what it really felt like to arrive in Miami as the Marlins' top prospect with the weight of a city on his shoulders, how that pressure shaped him as a player, and why signing with Japan's most storied franchise turned out to be the best decision he ever made — for himself and his family. He also reflects on the Tokyo Dome experience, Japanese fans crying at the sight of him on the subway, and what he'd tell his younger self if he could.One of the most honest conversations we've had on Pacific Swings.🇯🇵 Japanese subtitles available on YouTube.

In this episode of Pacific Swings, we sit down with Trey Hillman — the only manager in baseball history to have managed teams in Major League Baseball, Nippon Professional Baseball, and the Korea Baseball Organization. He didn't just manage in all three leagues. He won in two of them. Hillman managed the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters from 2003 to 2007, winning the 2006 Japan Series — ending a 25-year championship drought — while managing a young Yu Darvish in his development years. He then managed the Kansas City Royals in MLB before heading to Korea, where he won the Korean Series with SK Wyverns in 2018. He's also coached with the Dodgers, Yankees, Astros, and Marlins. Nobody in baseball has seen more of the game from the dugout across three different worlds. Key Topics Covered: Why Trey left a clear MLB path to take a risk on Japan in 2003The biggest cultural shocks of managing Japanese playersManaging Yu Darvish — and knowing early he was destined for the big leaguesHow he built the 2006 Fighters into champions after 25 years without a titleThe famous "Shinjirarenai!" moment after winning the Japan SeriesStructuring a roster under NPB's foreign player limitsWhat MLB can learn from Japan and Korea — and vice versaHow management style has to shift between American, Japanese, and Korean playersAbout Trey Hillman: Trey Hillman began his career in the Yankees and Rangers organizations before becoming one of the most traveled managers in global baseball history. As manager of the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters (2003–2007), he won the 2006 Japan Series and oversaw a 14-game winning streak in 2007. He managed the Kansas City Royals (2008–2010) and later won the 2018 Korean Series with the SK Wyverns. He has served as a coach with the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, Houston Astros, and Miami Marlins. Hosted by Jasper Spanjaart and David MacKinnon. 🇯🇵 Japanese Episode Notes エピソードタイトル： MLB、NPB、KBOすべてを制した唯一の監督 — トレイ・ヒルマン エピソードノート： MLBとNPBとKBO、三つのリーグすべてで監督を務めた唯一の人物、トレイ・ヒルマンが登場。2006年の日本シリーズ制覇（北海道日本ハムファイターズ）と2018年の韓国シリーズ制覇（SKワイバーンズ）を達成した伝説の監督が、異なる野球文化でのチームマネジメント、ダルビッシュ有との思い出、そして日米韓の野球から学んだ教訓を語る。 🇰🇷 Korean Episode Notes 에피소드 제목： MLB, NPB, KBO — 3개 리그를 모두 경험한 유일한 감독, 트레이 힐먼 에피소드 노트： 메이저리그, 일본 프로야구, KBO 리그 세 곳 모두에서 감독을 맡은 역사상 유일한 인물, 트레이 힐먼. 2006년 일본시리즈 우승과 2018년 SK 와이번스와의 한국시리즈 우승을 이끈 그가 세 리그의 야구 문화 차이, 다르빗슈 유와의 추억, 그리고 국제 야구에서 배운 교훈을 솔직하게 털어놓는다.

In this episode of Pacific Swings, we sit down with Cooper Hummel — an outfielder whose 2025 season reads less like a baseball career and more like a fever dream written by someone who has never seen a contract before. Astros. Yankees. Orioles (for 48 hours). DFA'd. Re-signed. DFA'd again. And then: 11 homers in 22 games with Tampa Bay in AAA, a flight to Tokyo, and a deal with the Yokohama DeNA BayStars. David MacKinnon, former NPB player and Seibu Lions alumnus, guides Cooper through what's coming. Jasper Spanjaart watches from a safe distance, having never been DFA'd in his life. Inside This Episode: - The high school coach who told Cooper he'd never amount to anything as a switch hitter (current status: professional switch hitter, year 10) - Being drafted in the 32nd round and building an MLB career anyway - Why Cooper always knew NPB was in his future — he lived in Japan as a kid - Playing Little League in Musashi-Fuchu with a future NPB player as a teammate - First impressions of Yokohama: the food, the shopping, the neighborhood - Why the BayStars care more about the CL pennant than the Japan Series - The NPB dead ball era coming to an end (allegedly — we know nothing, don't sue us) - Goal-setting: OBP .400 every year, compare yourself to the best in the league - If Cooper hits 40 homers, he's buying dinner. We're holding him to this. 🎙️ Hosted by David MacKinnon (@DCMacK24) & Jasper Spanjaart (@spnjrt) 📺 Subscribe: https://youtube.com/@PacificSwings #CooperHummel #YokohamaBayStars #DeNABayStars #NPB #JapaneseBaseball #PacificSwings #DavidMacKinnon #BaseballPodcast #NPB2025 #BayStars2025 #MiyazakiToshiro #YoshiTsutsugo #ShugoMaki #MLBtoNPB #SpringTrainingJapan #NPBDeadBall #横浜DeNAベイスターズ #クーパー・ヒュンメル #宮崎敏郎 #牧秀悟 #筒香嘉智 #プロ野球2025 #外国人選手NPB #野球ポッドキャスト

Royals AAA. Pirates trade. MLB debut. Released. Signed in Japan. All in the same year.In this episode of Pacific Swings, we sit down with Cam Devanney, whose 2024 was the most chaotic season imaginable - and ended with him becoming the newest Hanshin Tiger. From a 15th-round senior sign to a legitimate MLB shortstop prospect heading to one of Japan's most passionate fanbases, Cam breaks down the journey.David MacKinnon delivers a full NPB Survival Guide for Hanshin's new infielder, covering everything from the notorious daily in-and-out drills to why Japanese fastballs ride differently to the cultural shock of silent subway commutes.Topics Include:The same-day release-to-signing timelineTeam USA's Premier 12 experience in JapanWhy Hanshin are the "Cubs of Japan"Dave's insider tips on NPB pitching (fastball-splitter-curve dominance)Playing in front of 45,000 fans vs 3,000 in AAAThe 42-day Duolingo streak12-inning ties and why they just... end🇯🇵 日本語: エピソードタイトル: MLBデビューから阪神タイガースへ：キャム・デバニーの日本への道 エピソードノート: 2024年シーズン、ロイヤルズAAA、パイレーツへのトレード、MLBデビュー、解雇、そして同日に阪神タイガースと契約という激動の1年を経験したキャム・デバニーが登場。デビッド・マッキノンがNPBサバイバルガイドを伝授します。 主要トピック: プレミア12での日本体験、阪神ファンの熱狂、NPBの投球スタイル、日本での生活準備 シーズン番号: 1 キーワード: キャム・デバニー、阪神タイガース、NPB、日本野球、MLBデビュー🇰🇷 한국어: 에피소드 제목: MLB 데뷔에서 한신 타이거스까지: 캠 데바니의 일본행 에피소드 노트: 2024시즌 로열스 AAA, 파이리츠 트레이드, MLB 데뷔, 방출, 그리고 같은 날 한신 타이거스 계약이라는 격동의 한 해를 보낸 캠 데바니가 출연. 데이비드 맥키넌이 NPB 서바이벌 가이드를 전수합니다. 주요 주제: 프리미어12 일본 경험, 한신 팬들의 열광, NPB 투구 스타일, 일본 생활 준비 시즌 번호: 1 키워드: 캠 데바니, 한신 타이거스, NPB, 일본야구, MLB 데뷔

Two Seibu Lions aces. One former teammate who faced them both. Everything you need to know about the next NPB stars heading to MLB.David MacKinnon (@dcmack24) joins us to break down his 2023 teammates:Kona Takahashi - The captain who hit 99mph in 2023 and deserves redemptionTatsuya Imai - The 26-year-old "rockstar" with the best stuff in NPBInside this episode: 🔥 "$250M for Imai might be cheap" ⚾ The "vertical slider" mystery (we still don't know) 🎯 Why Toronto might be the perfect landing spot for Imai😅 David's horror stories from facing them in spring training 💰 Contract predictions that will shock you"He threw me a slider that started BEHIND me and ended outside" - actual quote about ImaiWhether you're an MLB scout, NPB fan, or just love baseball stories from inside the clubhouse, this is the deepest dive you'll find on these two aces.Full episode on YouTube (link in bio) and all podcast platforms tomorrow!Hosts: @spnjrt & @dcmack24 Sponsored by @jaxathletics#PacificSwings #NPB #MLB #SeibulLions #BaseballPodcast #JapaneseBaseball #TatsuyaImai #KonaTakahashi #MLBPosting #BaseballScouting #西武ライオンズ #今井達也 #髙橋光成 #野球 #ポッドキャスト

Dietrich Enns went from Yankees prospect to NPB (Seibu Lions) to KBO (LG Twins) and back to MLB with the Tigers and Orioles. The gap between MLB starts? 2,877 days. One of the longest this century.In this episode, Dietrich joins David and Jasper to talk about:🔥 Facing Schwarber, Harper & Castellanos in the 8th 🚂 Taking trains with Japanese fans after games ⚾ Breaking down NPB vs KBO vs MLB hitting styles 🦁 Which Seibu Lions pitchers could dominate MLB 👨‍👧 How becoming a father changed everything"My stuff is so much better now... you just go out there and have fun and enjoy the game."The Pacific Swings boost is real - he got called up 2 days after our first interview 😏Hosts: @spnjrt & @DCMacK24 Guest: @dietrichenns #PacificSwings #MLB #NPB #KBO #Baseball #BaseballPodcast #DietrichEnns #BaltimoreOrioles #DetroitTigers #SeibulLions #LGTwins #JapaneseBaseball #KoreanBaseball #MLBComeback #BaseballLife #PodcastLife #SportsPodcast #BaseballStories #오리올스 #西武ライオンズ

Ronnie Dawson: From Indie Ball to KBO All-StarFrom thinking his career was over to becoming one of the KBO's most beloved players - Ronnie Dawson's story is about finding freedom, being yourself, and redefining success.In this episode of Pacific Swings, former Kiwoom Heroes outfielder Ronnie Dawson joins David MacKinnon and Jasper Spanjaart to share his incredible journey from a $85,000 contract to KBO All-Star and fan favorite.Ronnie's Journey:Second-round pick by Houston Astros (2016, 61st overall, $1M+ signing bonus)Struggled in the minors with pressure and expectationsTwo MLB stints with Houston Astros and Cincinnati RedsPlaying indie ball in 2023, preparing to become a coach at Ohio StateGot the call from Kiwoom Heroes: $85,000 contract, 3 hours to decideHit .336 with .852 OPS in 57 games (July-September 2023)Selected to KBO All-Star GameBecame a fan favorite for his personality, dancing, and authenticityCurrent free agency status and what's nextThe Japanese concept of "Kintsugi" as his comeback mantraWhy This Episode Matters: Ronnie's story isn't just about baseball success - it's about resilience, taking risks, being authentic, and finding yourself when you're 6,000 miles from home. It's about redefining what success means and having the courage to take a chance when everyone (including yourself) thinks it's over.What's Next: Ronnie is currently a free agent, working out, rehabbing his knee, and looking for his next opportunity. He's open to returning to Korea, Japan, or any league that gives him a chance. He's also been umpiring youth baseball and giving lessons while staying ready.Sponsored by JAX Athletics - Premium baseball and softball batting gloves. Use code PACIFICSWlNGS for 15% off at jaxathletics.comHosts: Jasper Spanjaart & David MacKinnon (@spnjrt & @DCMacK24)Subscribe to Pacific Swings: YouTube: youtube.com/@pacificswings Spotify: [link] Apple Podcasts: [link]#PacificSwings #RonnieDawson #KBO #KiwoomHeroes #IndieBall #BaseballStory #로니도슨 #키움히어로즈 #AllStar #Redemption #FindingFreedom🇯🇵 日本語:エピソードタイトル: ロニー・ドーソン：独立リーグからKBオールスターへ | Episode 19独立リーグでキャリアが終わったと思っていたロニー・ドーソンが、8万5000ドルの契約でキウム・ヒーローズに加入。わずか57試合で打率.336を記録し、次の年には55万ドルの契約を獲得。KBオールスターに選出され、ファンに愛される選手になるまでの物語。主要トピック:韓国からの電話：決断まで3時間キャリアが終わったと思った理由韓国で自分らしくいられた自由外野で踊ってファンのお気に入りに父親になって変わった野球への向き合い方「ただプレーする」ことの大切さ調子が悪い時に踊って批判された経験KBOとMLBの投球の違いSeason Number: 1 Episode Number: 19Sponsored by JAX Athletics - コード「PACIFICSWlNGS」で15%オフキーワード: ロニー・ドーソン、KBO、キウム・ヒーローズ、独立リーグ、オールスター、復活、自由🇰🇷 한국어:에피소드 제목: 로니 도슨: 독립리그에서 KBO 올스타까지 | Episode 19독립리그에서 커리어가 끝났다고 생각했던 로니 도슨이 키움 히어로즈와 8만 5천 달러 계약을 체결. 단 57경기에서 타율 3할 3푼 6리를 기록하며 다음 해 55만 달러 계약을 따냈고, KBO 올스타에 선정되며 팬들이 사랑하는 선수가 되기까지의 이야기.주요 주제:한국에서 온 전화: 결정까지 3시간커리어가 끝났다고 생각한 이유한국에서 찾은 자유와 자신다움외야에서 춤추며 팬 페이버릿이 되다아버지가 되어 달라진 야구 접근법"그냥 플레이하라"의 중요성부진할 때 춤춰서 받은 비판KBO와 MLB 투구의 차이무릎 부상과 컴백FA: 다음 행선지는?Season Number: 1 Episode Number: 19Sponsored by JAX Athletics - 코드 "PACIFICSWlNGS"로 15% 할인키워드: 로니 도슨, KBO, 키움 히어로즈, 독립리그, 올스타, 재기, 자유

Can Kazuma Okamoto and Munetaka Murakami succeed in MLB?In this episode of Pacific Swings, David MacKinnon and Jasper Spanjaart break down two of NPB's biggest power hitters: Kazuma Okamoto (Yomiuri Giants) and Munetaka Murakami (Tokyo Yakult Swallows).David analyzes their swings, projects their MLB futures, and makes bold predictions about contracts and team fits.Key Topics Covered:Kazuma Okamoto's swing mechanics: "His swing will play anywhere"Why Okamoto's approach translates to MLBMunetaka Murakami's Triple Crown season breakdownThe biggest challenges Japanese power hitters face in MLBWhich MLB teams should be calling right nowContract predictions: Okamoto $125-180M, Murakami $250MWhy David thinks Okamoto has higher upside but Murakami will get paid more"I think Okamoto might have the better five years"Best MLB fits: Murakami to Yankees? Okamoto to Red Sox or Giants?Can they hit MLB breaking balls?Comparing them to current MLB playersThe mental adjustments required for Japanese hitters in MLBSponsored by JAX Athletics - Premium baseball and softball batting gloves. Use code PACIFICSWlNGS for 15% off at jaxathletics.comHosts: Jasper Spanjaart & David MacKinnon (@spnjrt & @DCMacK24)#PacificSwings #KazumaOkamoto #MunetakaMurakami #NPB #JapaneseBaseball #MLBProspects #YomiuriGiants #YakultSwallows🇯🇵 日本語:エピソードタイトル: 岡本和真 & 村上宗隆 徹底分析 | Episode 18読売ジャイアンツの岡本和真と東京ヤクルトスワローズの村上宗隆について、デビッド・マキノンとジャスパー・スパンヤールトが徹底分析。MLB移籍の可能性、スイング解析、契約予想、最適な球団について語ります。主要トピック:岡本和真のスイング分析「このスイングはどこでも通用する」村上宗隆の三冠王シーズンの秘密MLB移籍時の課題と調整点契約予想：岡本1億2500万〜1億8000万ドル、村上2億5000万ドル「岡本の方が可能性は高い。でも村上の方が高額契約になる」「今後5年間は岡本の方が良い成績を残すと思う」最適なMLB球団：村上→ヤンキース？岡本→レッドソックス？日本人パワーヒッターがMLBで苦戦する理由MLBの変化球に対応できるか？現役MLB選手との比較分析岡本和真 成績: 通算248本塁打、打率.277、OPS .882、6年連続30本塁打以上村上宗隆 成績: 史上最年少三冠王、2022年56本塁打（日本人最多記録）Season Number: 1 Episode Number: 18Sponsored by JAX Athletics - コード「PacificSwings」で15%オフキーワード: 岡本和真、村上宗隆、読売ジャイアンツ、東京ヤクルトスワローズ、MLB移籍、スイング分析、契約予想🇰🇷 한국어:에피소드 제목: 오카모토 가즈마 & 무라카미 무네타카 완벽 분석 | Episode 18요미우리 자이언츠의 오카모토 가즈마와 도쿄 야쿠르트 스왈로스의 무라카미 무네타카를 데이비드 매키넌과 재스퍼 스판야르트가 완벽 분석. MLB 이적 가능성, 스윙 분석, 계약 예상, 최적의 팀에 대해 이야기합니다.주요 주제:오카모토 가즈마 스윙 분석 "이 스윙은 어디서든 통한다"무라카미 무네타카의 트리플 크라운 시즌 비결MLB 이적 시 과제와 조정점계약 예상: 오카모토 1억 2500만~1억 8000만 달러, 무라카미 2억 5000만 달러"오카모토가 더 높은 잠재력을 가지고 있지만 무라카미가 더 큰 계약을 받을 것"오카모토 가즈마 성적: 통산 248홈런, 타율 .277, OPS .882, 6년 연속 30홈런 이상무라카미 무네타카 성적: 역대 최연소 트리플 크라운, 2022년 56홈런 (일본인 최다 기록)Season Number: 1 Episode Number: 18Sponsored by JAX Athletics - 코드 "PacificSwings"로 15% 할인키워드: 오카모토 가즈마, 무라카미 무네타카, 요미우리 자이언츠, 도쿄 야쿠르트 스왈로스, MLB 이적, 스윙 분석, 계약 예상

Sponsored by JAX Athletics - Premium baseball and softball batting gloves. Use code PACIFICSWINGS for 15% off at jaxathletics.comIn this episode of Pacific Swings, David MacKinnon reunites with his 2023 Seibu Lions teammate Mark Payton for a conversation that goes beyond the box scores—diving into injuries, Japanese baseball culture, and the reality of playing in NPB when everything goes wrong.Mark Payton was drafted by the Yankees in 2013 and made his MLB debut with Oakland in 2020. In 2023, he signed with the Seibu Lions alongside David, becoming instant teammates and the only English-speaking position players on the roster. But their season together didn't go as planned—Mark faced a series of devastating injuries that turned his year into a test of mental toughness and perseverance.Key Topics Covered:The infamous press conference where Mark forgot his Japanese and just said "Hi, I'm Mark"Spring training in Miyazaki - waking up at 3am with 14-hour time difference and nowhere to goWhy Japanese defensive practice is completely different and lasts for hoursThe stretcher incident - Mark gets hit in the head by a 92mph fastball and is carried off the fieldRolling his ankle during backward skipping warmups three days before opening dayRehabbing alone in Tokyo - watching David play while stuck doing treatmentWhy Yamashita Shunpeita of Orix might be the best pitcher Mark's ever faced (better than MLB)Genda Sosuke's defense - potentially the best defender in the worldJapanese fan culture - traveling with supporters, custom t-shirts, and loyalty through slumpsFrom being carried off on a stretcher to discovering the best BBQ in Tokyo during rehab, from dealing with injuries to battling through turf-field pain with icy hot and tape, Mark's story is about resilience, adaptation, and the bond between teammates who lean on each other when everything falls apart.This is the Lions Reunion Episode - two Americans who lived the same experience but had completely different years.Sponsored by JAX Athletics - Premium baseball and softball batting gloves. Use code PACIFICSWINGS for 15% off at jaxathletics.comHosts: Jasper Spanjaart & David MacKinnonSubscribe to Pacific Swings on YouTube: youtube.com/@pacificswings#PacificSwings #MarkPayton #SeibuLions #DavidMacKinnon #NPB #JapaneseBaseball #BaseballPodcast #西武ライオンズ #プロ野球🇯🇵 日本語: エピソードタイトル: ライオンズ：再会エピソード2023年、西武ライオンズで共に戦ったマーク・ペイトンとデビッド・マキノンが再会。怪我、日本の野球文化、そしてNPBでプレーする現実について語ります。主要トピック:悪名高い記者会見「はい、マークです」宮崎春季キャンプ - 午前3時に目覚める日々ペッパー練習での苦戦開幕3日前の後ろ向きスキップでの足首負傷東京での孤独なリハビリ生活怪我中の東京探索オリックス・山下舜平大投手についてキーワード: マーク・ペイトン、西武ライオンズ、デビッド・マキノン、怪我、リハビリ、記者会見、山下舜平大、源田壮亮🇰🇷 한국어: 에피소드 제목: 라이온즈: 재회 에피소드2023년 세이부 라이온즈에서 함께 뛴 마크 페이튼과 데이비드 매키넌이 재회. 부상, 일본 야구 문화, NPB에서 플레이하는 현실에 대해 이야기합니다.주요 주제:기자회견 실패담미야자키 춘계 캠프일본의 수비 연습머리에 맞은 공과 들것 사건키워드: 마크 페이튼, 세이부 라이온즈, 데이비드 매키넌, 부상, 재활, 야마시타 슌페이타, 겐다 소스케

In Part 2 of Pacific Swings, David MacKinnon and Jasper Spanjaart continue their conversation with Gosuke Katoh, diving into the mental strategies and development philosophies that shaped his unique career path.After 10 years grinding through six different MLB organizations, Gosuke finally reached the majors with Toronto before setting NPB rookie records with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters. Now at 30, he's bringing that experience to the Blue Jays front office, evaluating players with a perspective few scouts can match.Key Topics Covered:How different organizations approach player development - from Yankees' power focus to Blue Jays' contact-heavy approachWhy contact hitting is finally getting valued in modern baseballThe "I am invincible" mindset he told himself every at-bat to reach league-average confidenceManaging 10 years of slumps and why experience breeds fearlessnessMeeting childhood idol Ichiro and learning the importance of routineWhy he chose Toronto's front office over other opportunities, including the FightersNPB vs MLB development: Japanese infield instruction is "next level"The pitch clock and tie debate - why NPB needs both changesKiyomiya Kotaro: The Bryce Harper of Japan and why he's so impressiveWatching young Fighters teammates succeed in NPB todayHis advice to his 18-year-old self struggling in rookie ball: "Just never give up. A lot of good things will happen.""The first couple years were the hardest. I was miserable every day in rookie ball. But you just gotta keep going. Me and Mac have the same trajectory - in the end, you just gotta keep going."From the pressure of being an 18-year-old second-round pick to scouting for a top-5 payroll MLB team, Gosuke's journey shows that persistence and adaptation create opportunities talent alone never could.Gosuke Katoh is a baseball operations assistant for the Toronto Blue Jays, former utility infielder for the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, and the first player in baseball history to be drafted by both MLB and NPB.🇯🇵 日本語: エピソードタイトル: ネバー・ギビング・アップ 加藤豪将（後編）パート2では、加藤豪将の独特なキャリアパスを形作ったメンタル戦略と育成哲学を深掘りします。主要トピック:球団ごとの選手育成哲学の違い - ヤンキースのパワー重視からブルージェイズのコンタクト重視までコンタクト打法がついに評価される理由打席で自分に言い聞かせた「無敵」マインドセット10年間のスランプ管理と経験が生む恐れ知らず憧れのイチローとの出会いとルーティンの重要性ファイターズを含む他のオファーではなくトロントのフロントオフィスを選んだ理由NPB vs MLB育成：日本の内野守備指導は「次元が違う」ピッチクロックと引き分け論争 - NPBが両方必要な理由清宮幸太郎：日本のブライス・ハーパーと彼が印象的な理由若手ファイターズの同僚が今NPBで活躍する姿を見る喜びルーキーリーグで苦しむ18歳の自分へのアドバイス：「諦めるな。良いことが起こる」「最初の数年が一番辛かった。ルーキーボールで毎日惨めだった。でも続けるしかない。俺とマックは同じ軌跡をたどった - 結局、続けるしかないんだ」Season Number: 1 Episode Number: 15 Part 2 加藤豪将インタビュー 後編キーワード: 加藤豪将、選手育成、メンタルゲーム、イチロー、清宮幸太郎、トロント・ブルージェイズ、日本ハムファイターズ

In this first-part of a two-part episode of Pacific Swings, David MacKinnon and Jasper Spanjaart sit down with Gosuke Katoh, the first player in baseball history to be drafted by both MLB and NPB, who just retired at 30 to join the Toronto Blue Jays front office.Drafted 66th overall by the New York Yankees in 2013 as an 18-year-old, Gosuke spent a decade grinding through six different organizations in the minor leagues. Then many years later, he woke up at 3am in California to discover he'd made history - the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters had drafted him in Japan, making him the first player ever selected by both leagues.After finally reaching the majors with Toronto, Gosuke headed to Japan where he set an NPB rookie record with 10 consecutive games with a hit to start his career. Now he's bringing that unique perspective to the Blue Jays front office, scouting and evaluating players while watching the game from an entirely new angle.Key Topics Covered:The historic double draft - being selected by both MLB and NPB10 years in the minor leagues across six organizations and what kept him goingWaking up at 3am to discover he'd been drafted in JapanWhy he felt out of place in Japan despite knowing the language and culturePlaying for Tsuyoshi Shinjo-san and those custom jerseys at Es Con FieldFrom Yankees farmhand to historic draft pick to Japan Series contender to MLB front office - Gosuke's journey proves that persistence and adaptation can take you places you never imagined.Gosuke Katoh is a baseball operations assistant for the Toronto Blue Jays, former utility infielder for the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, and the first player in baseball history to be drafted by both MLB and NPB.🇯🇵 日本語: エピソードタイトル: ネバー・ギビング・アップ 加藤豪将（前編）史上初のMLB・NPB両ドラフト指名選手、加藤豪将が登場！2013年ヤンキース2巡目指名から10年間のマイナーリーグ生活、2016年日本ハムファイターズからの指名、そして30歳でブルージェイズのフロントオフィスへ転身するまでの軌跡を語ります。主要トピック:史上初のMLB・NPB両ドラフト指名の舞台裏マイナーリーグで10年間生き残る方法午前3時に目覚めて知った日本ハムからの指名日本語が話せても感じた日本での違和感新庄監督の下でのプレーSeason Number: 1 Episode Number: 15 Part 1 加藤豪将インタビューキーワード: 加藤豪将、日本ハムファイターズ、トロント・ブルージェイズ、ドラフト、新庄剛志、イチロー🇰🇷 한국어: 에피소드 제목: 네버 기빙 업 가토 히데마사 (1부)역사상 최초로 MLB와 NPB 양쪽에서 드래프트된 선수 가토 히데마사가 출연! 2013년 양키스 2라운드 지명부터 10년간의 마이너리그 생활, 2016년 홋카이도 닛폰햄 파이터즈 지명, 그리고 30세에 블루제이스 프런트오피스로 전향하기까지의 궤적을 들려줍니다.주요 주제:역사상 최초 MLB·NPB 양쪽 드래프트 지명마이너리그에서 10년간 생존하는 법새벽 3시에 일어나 알게 된 일본 드래프트 지명일본어를 해도 느낀 일본에서의 이질감신죠 감독 밑에서의 플레이Season Number: 1 Episode Number: 15 Part 1 가토 히데마사 인터뷰키워드: 가토 히데마사, 홋카이도 닛폰햄 파이터즈, 토론토 블루제이스, 드래프트, 신죠 타케시, 이치로

In this episode of Pacific Swings, David MacKinnon and Jasper Spanjaart sit down with Anthony Kay, the Yokohama DeNA BayStars left-hander who went from first-round draft pick heartbreak to Japan Series champion in one of baseball's most inspiring turnaround stories.Drafted 31st overall by his hometown New York Mets in 2016, Anthony's dream quickly turned into a nightmare when he needed Tommy John surgery immediately after signing. Fast-forward to 2024, and he's throwing six hitless innings in the playoffs and celebrating Japan's ultimate prize with the BayStars.Anthony opens up about the mental challenge of that year-plus rehab, why he's become a "completely different pitcher" in Japan, and how Trevor Bauer has helped refine his approach. From learning a devastating two-seam fastball to keep Japanese hitters honest, to understanding why throwing 500 batting practice swings daily is just normal in Japanese spring training.Key Topics Covered:The Tommy John surgery right after being drafted and the lonely rehab processWhy the 2024 Japan Series championship was every kid's dream scenarioHow he's transformed his pitch arsenal: 90-92 mph cutter and new two-seam fastballTrevor Bauer's mentorship and analytical approach to pitchingFacing Murakami, Okamoto, and Sato - the Central League's most dangerous hittersThe bizarre Japanese playoff system that gives teams free winsWhy NPB training culture is completely different from AmericaLearning to control emotions on the mound in Japanese cultureHow the strike zone is wider but shorter in JapanWhy balls hit 440 feet only reach the warning track in Japanese ballparksThe Cape Cod connection with David and those simpler baseball daysFrom Wareham Gatemen teammates to crossing paths again on Pacific Swings - Anthony proves that sometimes baseball takes you exactly where you need to be, even if it's 7,000 miles from where you started.Anthony Kay is the left-handed pitcher for the Yokohama DeNA BayStars, 2024 Japan Series champion, and former first-round draft pick of the New York Mets who has found his home and success in Japanese baseball.🇯🇵 日本語: エピソードタイトル: アンソニー・ケイ：トミージョン手術から日本シリーズ優勝まで横浜DeNAベイスターズの左腕アンソニー・ケイが登場！2016年メッツ1巡目指名直後のトミージョン手術から2024年日本シリーズ制覇まで、野球人生の波乱万丈な軌跡を語ります。主要トピック:トミージョン手術とリハビリの孤独な過程2024年日本シリーズ優勝の軌跡投球フォーム改造：90-92マイルのカッターと新ツーシームトレバー・バウアーとの関係村上・岡本・佐藤との対戦日本の練習文化とアメリカとの違いSeason Number: 1 Episode Number: 14 Anthony Kay Interview キーワード: アンソニー・ケイ、横浜DeNAベイスターズ、日本シリーズ、トミージョン手術、トレバー・バウアー🇰🇷 한국어: 에피소드 제목: 앤서니 케이: 토미 존 수술에서 일본시리즈 우승까지요코하마 DeNA 베이스타즈의 좌완 앤서니 케이가 출연! 2016년 메츠 1라운드 지명 직후 토미 존 수술부터 2024년 일본시리즈 제패까지, 파란만장한 야구 인생을 들려줍니다.주요 주제:토미 존 수술과 재활의 고독한 과정2024년 일본시리즈 우승 여정투구 폼 개조: 90-92마일 커터와 새로운 투심트레버 바우어와의 관계무라카미·오카모토·사토와의 대결일본 연습 문화와 미국과의 차이Season Number: 1 Episode Number: 14 앤서니 케이 인터뷰 키워드: 앤서니 케이, 요코하마 DeNA 베이스타즈, 일본시리즈, 토미 존 수술, 트레버 바우어

In this episode of Pacific Swings, David MacKinnon and Jasper Spanjaart sit down with Tyler Nevin, the Seibu Lions first baseman who's transformed from MLB organizational depth to becoming one of NPB's most consistent hitters and a legitimate batting title candidate. Tyler's having the season Lions fans have been dreaming about since 2023, opening up about why choosing Japan over grinding in Triple-A was the best decision he ever made.Fresh off becoming the first player to 100 hits in the Pacific League and winning MVP honors for May, Tyler explains how he escaped MLB "survival mode" where you're just trying to get hits to avoid getting optioned the next day. Instead of worrying about his next paycheck, he's actually been able to develop as a player for the first time since Double-A ball.Key Topics Covered:How he escaped MLB "survival mode" and finally found consistent playing time after five yearsThe early 2-year extension that shocked NPB after just months with the LionsGrowing up as Phil Nevin's son and learning from big league clubhousesThat legendary Angels-Mariners brawl and Phil's player-first managing philosophyBreaking an 87-year NPB record by collecting all four of his team's hits in one gamePlaying baseball in the desert winds of Lancaster, California where mishits became homersJapanese fan culture: custom towels, kimonos, and why respectfulness mattersWhy he accidentally injured rookie sensation Seiya Watanabe twiceLiving in Tanashi vs American cities and the $40 grocery bill phenomenonFacing elite NPB pitching: Miyagi's six-pitch arsenal vs Moinelo's raw powerThe grand slam at Belluna Dome that made Jasper nearly fall out of his seatWhy Japanese convenience store fish-shaped pancakes are elite snack foodTyler Nevin is the first baseman for the Seibu Lions, the first player to 100 hits in the 2025 Pacific League season, May MVP winner, and holder of a rare mid-season extension after proving essential to the organization.🇯🇵 日本語: エピソードタイトル: タイラー・ネビン：MLBサバイバルモードから西武ライオンズ成功への道西武ライオンズのタイラー・ネビン選手が初登場！MLB組織の底辺からNPB最高の打者の一人へ、そして正当な首位打者候補になるまでの軌跡。日本選択がトリプルAでの苦闘より最良の決断だった理由を語ります。主要トピック:パリーグ初の100安打達成、5月MVP受賞MLBサバイバルモードからの脱却フィル・ネビンの息子として育った経験87年ぶりのNPB記録更新日本のファン文化と田無での生活Season Number: 1 Episode Number: 13 Tyler Nevin Interview キーワード: タイラー・ネビン、西武ライオンズ、NPB、首位打者争い、一塁手、フィル・ネビン🇰🇷 한국어: 에피소드 제목: 타일러 네빈: MLB 서바이벌 모드에서 세이부 라이온즈 성공까지세이부 라이온즈의 타일러 네빈이 첫 출연! MLB 조직 하부에서 NPB 최고의 타자 중 한 명이 되어 정당한 타율왕 후보가 되기까지의 여정. 트리플 A에서의 고군분투보다 일본 선택이 최선의 결정이었던 이유를 들려줍니다.주요 주제:퍼시픽리그 첫 100안타 달성, 5월 MVP 수상MLB 서바이벌 모드 탈출필 네빈의 아들로 자란 경험87년 만의 NPB 기록 갱신일본 팬 문화와 다나시 생활Season Number: 1 Episode Number: 13 타일러 네빈 인터뷰 키워드: 타일러 네빈, 세이부 라이온즈, NPB, 타율왕 경쟁, 1루수, 필 네빈

Dave fired his translator app, paid to ride trains with his own face on them, and somehow convinced us he's funnier than the average Joe. Meanwhile, Jasper's threatening to sell Dave's signed NPB card for five bucks and we're introducing "Cartoon Dave" - complete with progressive beatdowns every episode.In this episode of Pacific Swings Q&A #2, we tackle your burning questions about Asian baseball. From heated debates about whether Samurai Japan could win the WBC without their MLB superstars to Dave's embarrassing encounters with 19-year-old Korean robot umpires (yes, really), this mailbag episode has it all.Key Topics Covered:NPB vs KBO talent levels - why players choose each league and Dave's hot takes on earning potentialSamurai Japan without Ohtani, Yamamoto, and Sasaki - could an all-NPB roster still win it all?Young Seibu Lions prospects flying under the radar (spoiler: Watanabe and Takizawa are studs)Japanese stadium experience - beer girls with kegs, cheap curry, and why you can bring anything you wantUmpiring across three countries - from robot zones in Korea to Dave thinking MLB umps are "almost like robots"Dave's NPB baseball card collection and the tragic story of his .235 batting average being immortalized foreverMedia relationships and social media - why post-game interviews are terrible for everyone involvedDave also reveals he was never "gifted with a swing" like Mike Trout, explains why he timed himself up for 85 mph splitters against Japanese pitchers, and shares his master plan for live shows in Japan and Korea. Plus: Dustin Pedroia losing his mind in the most relatable post-game interview ever.🇯🇵 日本語: エピソードタイトル: 太平洋スウィングス Q&A #2: NPB対KBO、MLB抜きの侍ジャパン、デイブの野球カードデイブの翻訳アプリが解雇され、自分の顔が載った電車に運賃を払い、平均的な人より面白いと自分を納得させた第2回Q&Aエピソード。NPBとKBOの実力差、大谷・山本・佐々木なしの侍ジャパンのWBC優勝可能性、若手西武選手、日本の球場体験などファンの質問に答えます。主要トピック: NPB対KBO実力比較、MLB抜き侍ジャパン論争、注目若手選手、日本球場体験、各国審判比較、NPB野球カード、メディア関係シーズン番号: 1 エピソード番号: Q&A #2 キーワード: Q&A、NPB、KBO、侍ジャパン、WBC、野球カード、審判、球場体験🇰🇷 한국어: 에피소드 제목: 태평양 스윙스 Q&A #2: NPB vs KBO, MLB 없는 사무라이 재팬, 데이브의 야구카드데이브의 번역앱이 해고되고, 자신의 얼굴이 붙은 전철에 요금을 내며, 평균적인 사람보다 재미있다고 스스로를 설득한 두 번째 Q&A 에피소드. NPB와 KBO의 실력차, 오타니·야마모토·사사키 없는 사무라이 재팬의 WBC 우승 가능성, 젊은 세이부 선수들, 일본 구장 경험 등 팬들의 질문에 답합니다.주요 주제: NPB vs KBO 실력 비교, MLB 없는 사무라이 재팬 논쟁, 주목할 젊은 선수들, 일본 구장 경험, 각국 심판 비교, NPB 야구카드, 미디어 관계시즌 번호: 1 에피소드 번호: Q&A #2 키워드: Q&A, NPB, KBO, 사무라이재팬, WBC, 야구카드, 심판, 구장경험#PacificSwings #QandA #NPBvsKBO #SamuraiJapan #WBC #BaseballCards #NPB #KBO #JapaneseBaseball #KoreanBaseball #SeibuLions #UmpireComparison #StadiumExperience #YoungProspects #BaseballPodcast #AsianBaseball #ProfessionalBaseball #BaseballCulture #MLBvsNPB #BaseballMedia #SocialMedia #BaseballFans #태평양스윙스 #야구 #프로야구 #사무라이재팬 #세이부라이온즈 #太平洋スウィングス #野球 #プロ野球 #侍ジャパン #西武ライオンズ

In this episode of Pacific Swings, David and Jasper talk with Casey Kelly, the man who truly mastered the Pacific swing. After five and a half years with the LG Twins, Casey became Korean baseball royalty - earning the nickname "Jamsil Jesus" and helping end the team's 29-year championship drought in 2023.From nearly walking away from baseball to becoming a Korean legend, Casey opens up about his transformative journey that took him from reluctant Korea signing to beloved superstar who brought a championship to Seoul.Key Topics Covered:From reluctant Korea signing to five-year legend: How his wife convinced him to take the leapWinning the 2023 Korean Series and ending LG's 29-year championship droughtThe emotional farewell ceremony that had the entire stadium in tearsKorean baseball culture vs MLB: Why emotion and passion rule the KBOLearning Korean language and culture while raising a family in SeoulThe incredible fan support and celebrity status foreign players achieve in KoreaTechnical adjustments needed to succeed against Korean hitters who approach at-bats differentlyHis dramatic MLB comeback with Cincinnati after being released by LGPlaying for his father as AAA manager and getting called up mid-fireworks showWhy Korean baseball fans are the most passionate in the worldThe "foreigners in a smaller bubble" experience and finding brotherhood overseasBat-flipping culture and embracing the emotional side of Korean baseballHow Korea "made him fall in love with baseball again" after becoming bitter in the minorsCasey also breaks down the differences between Korean and Japanese baseball, shares stories about becoming Korean celebrities, and explains why David MacKinnon's release from Samsung still doesn't make sense.Whether you're curious about international baseball culture or want to understand what it takes to become a legend in a foreign country, this episode delivers authentic insights from someone who lived the dream.Casey Kelly is a former MLB pitcher who became a Korean baseball legend with the LG Twins, earning the nickname "Jamsil Jesus" while helping end their 29-year championship drought in 2023.🇰🇷 한국어: 에피소드 제목: 케이시 켈리가 어떻게 '잠실 예수'가 되어 29년 만의 우승 가뭄을 끝냈는가에피소드 노트: LG 트윈스에서 5년 반을 보낸 케이시 켈리가 한국 야구의 로열티가 되어 '잠실 예수'라는 별명을 얻고 2023년 팀의 29년 만의 우승 가뭄을 끝내는 데 도움을 준 이야기를 들려줍니다.주요 주제:한국행을 망설였던 선수에서 5년 전설로의 변화2023년 한국시리즈 우승과 LG의 29년 우승 가뭄 종료한국 야구 문화 vs MLB의 차이점서울에서 가족을 키우며 한국어와 문화 학습외국인 선수들이 받는 엄청난 팬 지지와 유명인 대우한국 타자들을 상대로 한 기술적 조정LG 방출 후 신시내티에서의 극적인 MLB 복귀Season Number: 1 Episode Number: 11 키워드: 케이시 켈리, LG 트윈스, KBO, 잠실 예수, 한국시리즈, 우승, 한국 야구

In this episode of Pacific Swings, David and Jasper talk with Kaima Taira (平良海馬), the Seibu Lions ace closer who has dominated Japanese baseball with a legendary 1.88 career ERA across seven NPB seasons. For the first time ever, Kaima Taira speaks in English!From his devastating slide step that makes elite hitters look foolish to his ambitious quest to throw 170 km/h (105 MPH), Taira opens up about his journey from a tiny 6-player junior high school team in Okinawa to becoming one of the most feared closers in Japanese baseball.Key Topics Covered:The secret behind his slide step technique that baffles elite hittersWhy his high school coach's advice changed his entire pitching approach foreverHow he prepares differently as a starter vs closer (spoiler: he doesn't prepare much as a closer)The mental game of closing tight games with bases loaded and 40,000 fans screamingHis devastating pitch arsenal: 100+ MPH fastball, unhittable cutter, and why he switched from splitter to changeupFacing Japan's best hitters like Yanagita (SoftBank) and why the Fighters lineup is so dangerousHis YouTube channel documenting the quest to throw 170 km/h and why that final 10% is nearly impossibleLife as a new father while still throwing 100+ MPH (spoiler: no sleep, no video games)Growing up in Okinawa as a Chiba Lotte fan and watching spring trainingHis off-season hobbies: fishing in beautiful Okinawan waters and terrible golfWhy he'd be a YouTuber if he wasn't a professional baseball playerWhether you're fascinated by elite pitching mechanics or want to understand what separates NPB's best closers from the rest, this episode delivers rare insights from someone operating at the absolute pinnacle of Japanese baseball.Kaima Taira is the ace pitcher for the Seibu Lions with a career 1.88 ERA across seven NPB seasons, known for his devastating slide step and 100+ MPH fastball while pursuing his goal of throwing 170 km/h.🇯🇵 日本語: エピソードタイトル: 日本の100マイル・クローザーが打てないスライドステップの秘密を明かすエピソードノート: 西武ライオンズのエース・クローザー平良海馬が、NPB通算防御率1.88という伝説的な成績を誇る投手として、沖縄の6人制高校チームから日本最恐のクローザーまでの軌跡を語ります。主要トピック:打者を翻弄するスライドステップの秘密先発とクローザーの違い柳田悠岐など日本最高打者との対戦170km/h達成への挑戦新米パパとしての生活Season Number: 1 Episode Number: 10 キーワード: 平良海馬、西武ライオンズ、NPB、クローザー、スライドステップ、100マイル🇰🇷 한국어: 에피소드 제목: 일본의 100마일 마무리 투수가 치기 어려운 슬라이드 스텝의 비밀을 공개에피소드 노트: 세이부 라이온즈의 에이스 마무리 투수 타이라 카이마가 NPB 통산 평균자책점 1.88이라는 전설적 성적을 자랑하는 투수로서, 오키나와의 6인제 고교팀에서 일본 최강의 마무리 투수까지의 궤적을 들려줍니다.주요 주제:타자를 농락하는 슬라이드 스텝의 비밀선발과 마무리의 차이점야나기타 유키 등 일본 최고 타자들과의 대결170km/h 달성을 향한 도전신임 아빠로서의 생활Season Number: 1 Episode Number: 10 키워드: 타이라 카이마, 세이부 라이온즈, NPB, 마무리 투수, 슬라이드 스텝, 100마일

In this special episode of Pacific Swings, David MacKinnon addresses his viral tweet about NPB ties that sparked outrage across Japanese baseball Twitter with 1.4 million impressions. Now he's officially launching his campaign to become NPB Commissioner with a platform built on controversy and questionable logic."Most home runs wins. That's it."Key Topics Covered:The viral tweet that broke Japanese baseball Twitter (1.4 million impressions)Why NPB ties must die according to Commissioner MacKinnonHome run contests as the ultimate tiebreaker solutionCentral League DH adoption in 2027 - finally bringing pitchers reliefHow to anger an entire nation's baseball fans in one tweetMacKinnon's first executive orders: pitch clocks and earlier start timesThe "Ghost Runner" debate: MLB solution or baseball sacrilege?Why he's "a man of the people... and the owners"KBO vs NPB: automatic strike zones and 20-second pitch clocksCreating jobs through better baseball (somehow)David doubles down on his controversial stance while Jasper tries to rein in the chaos. From abolishing ties to implementing home run contests, Commissioner MacKinnon's platform is equal parts revolutionary and ridiculous. Whether you love him or think he's completely lost it, one thing is certain: Japanese baseball will never be the same.David MacKinnon played professional baseball in MLB, NPB (Seibu Lions), and KBO before retiring to become a controversial voice for baseball reform and self-appointed NPB Commissioner candidate.🇯🇵 日本語: エピソードタイトル: マキノンNPBコミッショナー候補：引き分け撲滅宣言 エピソードノート: デビッド・マキノンのNPB引き分けに関する物議を醸したツイートが140万インプレッションを記録し、日本野球界を騒然とさせる。彼が提案するNPB改革案とコミッショナー就任への野望を語る。主要トピック:140万インプレッションを記録した炎上ツイートNPB引き分け制度撲滅論「ホームラン数で決着」セリーグDH制導入支持（2027年）ピッチクロック導入とゲーム時間短縮案日本野球ファンを怒らせる方法自動ストライクゾーンとKBO vs NPB比較「民衆の味方であり、オーナーの味方」宣言🇰🇷 한국어: 에피소드 제목: 맥키넌 NPB 커미셔너 후보: 무승부 폐지 선언 에피소드 노트: 데이빗 맥키넌의 NPB 무승부 관련 논란의 트윗이 140만 노출수를 기록하며 일본 야구계를 발칵 뒤집어놓았다. 그가 제안하는 NPB 개혁안과 커미셔너 취임 야망을 들어본다.주요 주제:140만 노출수를 기록한 논란의 트윗NPB 무승부 제도 폐지론 "홈런 개수로 결정"센트럴리그 DH 제도 도입 지지 (2027년)피치클락 도입과 경기시간 단축안일본 야구팬들을 화나게 하는 방법자동 스트라이크존과 KBO vs NPB 비교"민중의 편이자 구단주의 편" 선언Season Number: 1 Episode Number: 9#DavidMacKinnon #NPBCommissioner #MacKinnonForCommissioner #VoteMacKinnon #NPBTies #TiesMustDie #JapaneseBaseball #NPB #BaseballReform #NPBRules #PacificSwings #BaseballCommissioner #CentralLeague #DH #BaseballControversy #NPBNews #BaseballPodcast #BaseballDebate #NPBChanges #SeibuLions #KBO #MLB #BaseballRules #ViralTweet #BaseballTwitter #Commissioner #NPBReform #BaseballMemes #RetiredPlayer #BaseballChaos#マキノンNPBコミッショナー #NPBコミッショナー #マキノン #NPB #日本プロ野球 #引き分け撲滅 #野球改革 #NPB改革 #セリーグDH #プロ野球 #野球 #PacificSwings #埼玉西武ライオンズ #西武ライオンズ #コミッショナー #野球ルール #プロ野球改革 #野球論争 #引き分け #ホームラン #野球Twitter #炎上ツイート #140万インプレッション #ピッチクロック #野球ファン #アメリカ人選手 #元プロ野球選手 #野球解説 #最高 #面白い#맥키넌NPB커미셔너 #NPB커미셔너 #맥키넌 #NPB #일본프로야구 #무승부폐지 #야구개혁 #NPB개혁 #센트럴리그DH #프로야구 #야구 #PacificSwings #세이부라이온즈 #커미셔너 #야구룰 #프로야구개혁 #야구논란 #무승부 #홈런 #야구트위터 #논란트윗 #140만노출 #피치클락 #야구팬 #미국선수 #전프로야구선수 #야구해설

In this episode of Pacific Swings, David and Jasper talk with Trey Cabbage, the Tennessee slugger who went from breaking exit velocity records in the minors to demolishing baseballs at the Tokyo Dome for the Yomiuri Giants. From 487-foot home runs to 121.1 mph exit velocity, Cabbage opens up about the mental and technical adjustments needed to succeed in NPB."My job is to barrel the baseball and do some damage" Key Topics Covered:Breaking the minor league distance record with a 487-foot home runHolding the hardest exit velocity record at 121.1 mph (for three glorious weeks)The technical differences in NPB pitching: speed changes vs. raw stuffMental preparation adjustments: from playing scared to playing with swaggerCultural immersion: learning Japanese slang vs. textbook languageTokyo life with wife Kenzie: seasonings, safety, and daily grocery runsMechanical changes that unlocked his power: getting the barrel behind the baseballThe art of barrel depth and chasing the baseball with the batGiants teammates who helped with the transition: Chono, Sakamoto, and the pitching staffCabbage gets candid about the mental side of international baseball, from dealing with information overload in scouting meetings to the discipline required when preparation routines change. He breaks down why NPB pitchers attack foreign hitters differently, explains the humidity's effect on ball flight, and shares what it's like being married to baseball in the world's biggest city.Trey Cabbage was drafted by the Minnesota Twins and played in MLB with the Los Angeles Angels and Houston Astros before joining the Yomiuri Giants in NPB, where he's become known for his mammoth home runs and 121.1 mph exit velocity record.🇯🇵 日本語: エピソードタイトル: 巨人のパワー：トレイ・キャベッジが語る487フィート弾、NPB適応、東京生活 エピソードノート: 2024年読売ジャイアンツのトレイ・キャベッジが、マイナーリーグでの記録破りから東京ドームでの活躍まで、NPBでの技術的・精神的調整について語ります。487フィート本塁打と121.1マイル/時の打球速度記録保持者が、日本野球への適応と東京での生活を率直に語る。 主要トピック: 487フィート本塁打でマイナーリーグ記録更新 121.1mph打球速度記録（3週間保持） NPB投手の技術的違い：球速差対パワー 精神的準備の調整：恐れから自信へ 文化的適応：教科書的日本語対スラング ファン文化：MLB5人対NPB50人のメディア対応 巨人チームメイトとの関係：長野、坂本らとの交流 Season Number: 1 Episode Number: 8

In this episode of Pacific Swings, we sit down with Matt Davidson, who became the KBO's home run king in 2024, launching 46 bombs for the NC Dinos and establishing himself as one of Korea's premier power hitters. Davidson shares his journey from MLB to international baseball stardom across two countries.Key Topics Covered: ⚾Becoming Korea's home run championAdapting to unique Asian pitching styles and different training methodsThe difference between Japanese and Korean baseball cultures and approachesWhy consistency separates good players from great players at any levelLife as an international baseball player: motocross, whiskey collecting, and fatherhoodThe mental approach to hitting and building confidence through resultsHow family and perspective changed his approach to professional baseballAnd more!Davidson breaks down his time with the Hiroshima Carp in Japan versus his success with the NC Dinos in Korea, explains why timing adjustments are crucial when facing pitchers with longer windups, and shares his philosophy that elite players simply execute more consistently. He offers insights into the international baseball lifestyle and what it takes to succeed overseas.Whether you're curious about the technical aspects of hitting in different countries or want to understand what separates successful international players from the rest, this episode delivers authentic insights from someone who mastered the art of Pacific baseball.🇯🇵 日本語: エピソードタイトル: ホームラン王：マット・デイビッドソン エピソードノート: 2024年にKBOホームラン王となったマット・デイビッドソンが、NCダイノスで46本塁打を放ち韓国野球界のスーパースターとなった経験を語ります。主要トピック： トリプルAスタンダウトから韓国ホームラン王への変貌 アジア投手スタイルへの適応と異なる練習方法 日本と韓国の野球文化の違い 一貫性がトップ選手を分ける要因シーズン番号: 1 エピソード番号: 7 キーワード: マット・デイビッドソン、NCダイノス、KBO、ホームラン王、国際野球🇰🇷 한국어: 에피소드 제목: 홈런왕: 매트 데이비슨 에피소드 노트: 2024년 KBO 홈런왕이 된 매트 데이비슨이 NC 다이노스에서 46홈런을 때려 한국 야구계의 슈퍼스타가 된 경험을 들려줍니다.주요 주제: 트리플A 스탠드아웃에서 한국 홈런왕으로의 변신 아시아 투수 스타일에의 적응과 다른 훈련 방법 일본과 한국의 야구 문화 차이 일관성이 톱 선수를 가르는 요인시즌 번호: 1 에피소드 번호: 7 키워드: 매트 데이비슨, NC 다이노스, KBO, 홈런왕, 국제야구

In this episode of Pacific Swings, we dive into your questions in our first-ever Fan Mail episode. David shares stories from his time with the Seibu Lions, revealing the cultural surprises, unforgettable teammates, and incredible experiences that defined his NPB journey. Plus: an unsolicited golf update and why train station food in Japan is better than most American restaurants.Key Topics Covered:Japanese cheering culture vs. MLB crowds - why the coordinated songs and drums hit differentLife surprises in Japan: train station sushi and David's friendship with Mr. YamanakaWhy Japanese players deeply respect MLB veterans who return to NPBDavid's take on potential MLB rule changes coming to Japanese baseball (pitch clocks, ghost runners, bigger bases)Facing elite NPB pitching: Miyagi's impossible changeups, Yamamoto's splitters, and why some guys are unhittableDefensive role models and rising young talent like Takizawa and YamamuraLearning Japanese with teammates: dirt vs. grass conversations with Sosuke GendaDavid also breaks down which NPB pitchers gave him the most trouble, shares his defensive limitations compared to Genda's wizardry, and explains why he thinks baseball ties are stupid.Whether you're curious about the cultural differences between Japanese and American baseball or want to understand what it's really like adjusting to life overseas, this episode delivers authentic insights from someone who lived it firsthand.🇯🇵日本語: エピソードタイトル: ファンレター：電車駅の寿司と日本の応援文化 エピソードノート: デイビッド・マッキノンが西武ライオンズでの経験について語る初のファンメールエピソード。日本の応援文化、電車駅での生活、エリート投手との対戦など、ファンからの質問に答えます。主要トピック： 日本とMLBの応援文化の違い 日本での生活の驚き：電車駅の寿司と文化 NPBの高レベルな投手陣との対戦 源田壮亮などの守備職人との経験シーズン番号: 1 エピソード番号: 6 キーワード: ファンメール、西武ライオンズ、NPB、日本野球、応援文化、電車駅、寿司🇰🇷한국어: 에피소드 제목: 팬메일: 기차역 스시와 일본 응원 문화 에피소드 노트: 데이비드 맥키넌이 세이부 라이온즈에서의 경험에 대해 이야기하는 첫 번째 팬메일 에피소드. 일본 응원 문화, 기차역 생활, 엘리트 투수들과의 대결 등 팬들의 질문에 답합니다.주요 주제: 일본과 MLB 응원 문화의 차이점 일본 생활의 놀라운 점들 NPB 고수준 투수진과의 대결 겐다 소스케 등 수비 장인들과의 경험시즌 번호: 1 에피소드 번호: 6 키워드: 팬메일, 세이부 라이온즈, NPB, 일본 야구, 응원 문화#PacificSwings #FanMail #NPB #JapaneseBaseball #SeibuLions #TrainStationSushi #JapaneseCheering #BaseballCulture #NPBPitching #Miyagi #Yamamoto #Genda #TokyoLife #BaseballPodcast #QandA #JapanLife #CulturalDifferences #MLBvsNPB #ElitePitching #DefensiveWizardry #BaseballStories #ProfessionalBaseball #AsianBaseball #TokyoTrains #JapaneseFood #BaseballFans #응원문화 #일본야구 #NPB #세이부라이온즈 #야구팟캐스트 #팬메일 #기차역스시 #야구문화 #プロ野球 #西武ライオンズ #応援文化 #電車駅 #寿司 #野球ポッドキャスト #ファンメール #日本野球