To the Majors

The crew sits down with Ian Kinsler for a deep dive into his remarkable baseball journey. Ian reflects on the beginnings of Warstic, growing up in Tucson, and learning the art of scouting and player development. He shares stories from his time at Missouri, grinding through the minor leagues, and getting the call to the majors from Buck Showalter. The conversation covers earning his first contract, becoming an All-Star, dealing with snubs, battling the Yankees, World Series heartbreak and triumph, Gold Glove success, representing his country in the World Baseball Classic and Olympic baseball, and ultimately calling it a career.

The crew welcomes Brandon Workman to the show for a fascinating look at the journey from amateur standout to World Series champion. Brandon reflects on his time in the minors, becoming a high school legend, and choosing the University of Texas. He shares the heartbreak of falling short in the College World Series, competing in the Cape Cod League, and ultimately deciding to begin his professional career with Boston. The conversation covers his major league call-up, the impact of the Boston Marathon bombing, the intensity of the Yankees–Red Sox rivalry, winning the 2013 World Series, overcoming Tommy John surgery, navigating adversity, and closing the chapter on his career.

The crew welcomes David Murphy for a deep dive into his baseball journey from college standout to World Series contender. Murphy reflects on choosing Baylor, navigating the Cape Cod League, and realizing a professional career was within reach. He shares stories from getting drafted and joining the Red Sox, including playing alongside legends like Curt Schilling, Dustin Pedroia, Manny Ramirez, and David Ortiz. The conversation shifts to his move to Texas, unforgettable playoff moments, and the emotional highs and lows of the Rangers’ World Series runs. Murphy also discusses Nelson Cruz’s iconic home run, the missed catch, postseason exhaustion, and ultimately deciding to retire.

The crew welcomes New Hampshire legend Chris Carpenter for an incredible conversation about perseverance, greatness, and championship baseball. Carpenter reflects on how hockey helped shape his competitive edge before being drafted by the Blue Jays and grinding through the minors. He shares stories from his major league debut, learning from stars like Carlos Delgado and Roy Halladay, and witnessing the evolution of baseball firsthand. The conversation dives into his move to St. Louis, developing into an elite pitcher, winning the Cy Young Award, and battling through adversity. Chris also discusses Yadier Molina, Albert Pujols, Cardinals culture, World Series runs, and ultimately calling it a career.

The crew welcomes Derek Holland for a candid and entertaining conversation about his journey through Major League Baseball. Holland opens up about early financial struggles and how motivation from the Army helped shape his mindset. He reflects on proving himself, deciding to go pro, and what it takes to stay in the majors. Derek shares stories from his big league debut, the veterans who influenced him, and his unforgettable World Series experiences with the Rangers. He breaks down the 2011 controversy, elite competition in the MLB, the Texas-Toronto rivalry, and what it meant to watch the Rangers win it all in 2023.