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In this first edition of Monthly Swings, we sit down with Cooper Hummel (横浜DeNA BayStars) and Trey Cabbage (Yomiuri Giants) — two Americans playing on opposite sides of Japan's most storied rivalry — for what will be a monthly check-in from inside the NPB. Cooper is one month into his Japan adventure. Trey is navigating his second year with the Giants. Together they break down what nobody tells you about playing in Japan — from what it's really like guarding the outfield when the band won't stop playing, to taunting each other mid-game during a BayStars-Giants matchup, to the unwritten rules of baseball that Cooper may or may not have broken by borrowing Trey's bat mid-series. Hosted by documentary filmmaker Jasper Spanjaart and former MLB/NPB/KBO player David MacKinnon. 🎧 Pacific Swings is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Keywords: Cooper Hummel, Trey Cabbage, Monthly Swings, NPB, Japanese Baseball, Pacific Swings, Yokohama BayStars, Yomiuri Giants, Baseball Podcast, Americans in Japan, NPB 2026, BayStars Giants 月刊スウィングス：NPBの中から — クーパー・ヒュンメル & トレイ・キャベッジ | Pacific Swings |「試合で戦って、その後話す。」| 第1回 概要： 新企画『月刊スウィングス』第1回。ゲストはクーパー・ヒュンメル（横浜DeNAベイスターズ）とトレイ・キャベッジ（読売ジャイアンツ）。NPBの伝統の一戦で対戦する2人が、毎月Pacific Swingsに登場します。 来日1ヶ月のクーパーと、2年目を迎えたトレイが語るのは、ハイライトには映らないNPBのリアル。爆音スタジアムで外野を守る感覚、ベイスターズ対ジャイアンツの試合中に互いを煽り合った瞬間、そしてシリーズ中にバットを借りて野球の暗黙のルールを破った件まで。 そして2人は、まだこの番組の名前を決めていません。 ホスト： ドキュメンタリー映像作家 Jasper Spanjaart と、MLB・NPB・KBOでプレーした元プロ野球選手 David MacKinnon。 🎧 Pacific Swings は Spotify、Apple Podcasts、YouTube で配信中。 キーワード： クーパー・ヒュンメル、トレイ・キャベッジ、月刊スウィングス、NPB、日本野球、Pacific Swings、横浜DeNAベイスターズ、読売ジャイアンツ、野球ポッドキャスト、NPB2026

In this episode of Pacific Swings, we sit down with Scott Mathieson — a Canadian pitcher who survived two Tommy John surgeries before the age of 25, made it to the Philadelphia Phillies, and then made a decision that changed his life: he went to Japan. What was supposed to be a one-year deal turned into eight seasons with the Yomiuri Giants, an NPB all-time record for holds by a foreign pitcher, and — in a first for the franchise — a foreigner being named pitching captain. Scott opens up about the brawl in year three that turned his worst season around, what Jim Thome told him that saved his career, why he kept turning down MLB offers, and what it felt like to be handed the Giants captaincy as the first foreigner in club history. He also reflects on raising two Japan-born children, facing a young Shohei Ohtani, and what he told every new foreign player arriving in Tokyo. One of the most complete stories we've had on Pacific Swings. Hosted by documentary filmmaker Jasper Spanjaart and former MLB/NPB/KBO player David MacKinnon. 🇯🇵 Japanese subtitles available on YouTube. 概要： 今回の Pacific Swings のゲストは スコット・マシソン。25歳になる前に2度のトミー・ジョン手術を乗り越え、フィラデルフィア・フィリーズでメジャーデビューを果たしたカナダ人投手です。そして彼は、人生を変える決断をします——日本行きです。1年のつもりが 読売ジャイアンツ での8シーズンとなり、NPB外国人投手歴代最多ホールド記録を樹立。さらに球団史上初の外国人キャプテンにも就任しました。 3年目に経験した乱闘がどうシーズンを変えたか、ジム・トームの一言がどうキャリアを救ったか、なぜMLBのオファーを断り続けたか、そして外国人初のキャプテン就任がどんな意味を持ったか——率直に語ってくれました。日本生まれの2人の子どもを育てた経験、若き大谷選手との対戦、東京に降り立つ新しい外国人選手たちへ伝え続けたこと。Pacific Swingsの中でも特に充実したエピソードの一つです。 ホスト： ドキュメンタリー映像作家 Jasper Spanjaart と、MLB・NPB・KBOでプレーした元プロ野球選手 David MacKinnon。 🎧 Pacific Swings は Spotify、Apple Podcasts、YouTube で配信中。 🇯🇵 日本語字幕はYouTubeでご覧いただけます。 キーワード： スコット・マシソン、読売ジャイアンツ、NPB、日本野球、Pacific Swings、野球ポッドキャスト、トミー・ジョン手術、大谷翔平、外国人キャプテン、フィラデルフィア・フィリーズ、ホールド記録

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 Imai Whether 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-Star From 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.com Hosts: 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: 19 Sponsored 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 19 독립리그에서 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: 19 Sponsored by JAX Athletics - 코드 "PACIFICSWlNGS"로 15% 할인 키워드: 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.com Hosts: 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: 18 Sponsored 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 18 요미우리 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 이상 무라카미 무네타카 성적: 역대 최연소 트리플 크라운, 2022년 56홈런 (일본인 최다 기록) Season Number: 1 Episode Number: 18 Sponsored by JAX Athletics - 코드 "PacificSwings"로 15% 할인 키워드: 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.com In 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.com Hosts: Jasper Spanjaart & David MacKinnon Subscribe 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 에피소드 2023년 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 인터뷰 키워드: 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 우승까지 요코하마 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 성공까지 세이부 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