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.

Chapters

00:00 Post-Game Reflections: Tigers vs. Mariners Game 3

11:09 Game Day Predictions and Analysis

22:10 Looking Ahead: Elimination Game Dynamics

Game 3 Predictions - 2025 ALDS Detroit Tigers vs. Seattle Mariners

In 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.

Takeaways

The 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.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Playoff Excitement

02:34 Analyzing the Teams and Game Predictions

05:26 Player Performances and Key Matchups

08:08 Final Thoughts and Predictions for the Series

The guys discuss the final game of MLB regular season making predictions on who gets in!

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.

In this exciting episode of "Big League Dreaming the Podcast," host John Gonzalez and his sons Zak and Ty welcome special guest Dan Hasty, the voice of the West Michigan Whitecaps. Dive into the thrilling journey of the Whitecaps as they clinch the 2025 Midwest League Championship. Dan shares exclusive insights and stories from the field, offering a unique perspective on the team's triumphant season. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the Detroit Tigers or not, this show shares a family passion for baseball and a dedication to winning championships.

Takeaways

The West Michigan Whitecaps won their seventh Midwest League championship this year.

Player development is crucial for the success of MLB teams.

Winning culture in minor leagues helps players transition to the majors.

The Whitecaps had a record-breaking season with 96 wins.

Dan Hasty has been the voice of the Whitecaps for 10 seasons.

The 'Big Three' prospects (Max Clark, Kevin McGonigle and Josue Briceno) are expected to make a significant impact in the MLB.

Isaac Pacheco is a standout player with a bright future.The Tigers' minor league system is one of the best in baseball.

Winning championships at the minor league level builds confidence in players.

The importance of work ethic and player development in achieving success.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Big League Dreaming

02:53 Introducing Dan Hasty and the Whitecaps

05:31 Reflecting on the Whitecaps' Championship Season

11:34 Emerging Talents in the Tigers' Farm System

15:17 Home Field Advantage in Playoffs

17:03 Tigers' Player Development and Winning Culture

23:15 The Big Three: Future Stars of the Tigers

28:36 Closing Thoughts and Future of the Whitecaps

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.

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

Join hosts John, Zak, and Ty Gonzalez of Big League Dreamin as they dive into an inspiring conversation with Coach Rick Thorning of Taylor North Little League. In 2021, Coach Thorning led his team to victory in the Little League World Series, marking Michigan's first win since 1959. Discover the challenges and triumphs of that unforgettable journey, the importance of teamwork, and the lasting impact on the players' lives. Whether you're a baseball enthusiast or a fan of heartwarming stories, this episode is a home run!

Highlights:

Coach Thorning shares behind-the-scenes stories from the 2021 Little League World Series. Insights into the unique challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The importance of teamwork and camaraderie in achieving success. Updates on the players' current pursuits and future aspirations.

Tune in to hear more about the unforgettable journey of Taylor North Little League and the lessons learned along the way.

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