In this episode, we delve into the importance of player health and shine the spotlight on the intricacies of the Little League World Series. We cover the current MLB pennant race and make predictions for the upcoming 2026 Playoffs. We explore the cultural and social aspects of baseball, including nostalgia, new media, and youth development. We analyze a new baseball reality show, discuss the importance of representation, and highlight emerging young talent in the sport. Key Topics in this episode:

• Impact of new media on baseball culture
• Emerging young talent in the minor leagues
• Analysis of the 'Team Mom's Baseball' reality show
• Representation and diversity in baseball
• The importance of youth development and access to the game
• Memories and nostalgia associated with Pro Baseball games
• The role of Little League in fostering future stars
• The influence of streaming platforms on baseball viewership
• Youth baseball injuries and protection
• The importance of pitch counts and monitoring
• Climate and travel effects on young athletes
• MLB pennant race and 2026 playoff predictions
• The role of coaching and league oversight in player safety

Episode Highlights

• Young pitchers are at risk of serious injuries due to overuse and lack of proper monitoring.
• Climate differences and travel can add significant strain on young athletes' bodies.
• Coaches and leagues need to prioritize player health over winning at all costs.
• The MLB playoff race is highly competitive, with several teams vying for the top spots.
• Parental involvement and awareness are crucial in protecting young athletes from injury.

These are conversations that needed to happen. This is a platform built for engaging baseball & sports conversations. The show is led by hosts who lived it, loves the game, and refuses to let the entire story be buried, again. So pull up a chair. This isn't just baseball history. This is OUR history. And it's time we reclaim it. Subscribe. Share. Stay in the game.

This episode explores the deep-rooted connection between race and baseball, addressing historical and contemporary issues, and emphasizing the importance of understanding and acknowledging black contributions to the sport and society.

Johnnie and Coach Tre explore the intersection of race, culture, and sports, emphasizing the importance of representation, history, and honest dialogue in baseball and beyond. They highlight the trailblazing efforts of women in sports, the significance of Black contributions, and envision a more inclusive future for sports and society.

Key Topics in this Episode:

• The racial history of baseball and its origins
• The impact of race on sports and society
• The significance of Jackie Robinson and Moses Fleetwood Walker
• The influence of race on league policies and cultural narratives
• The ongoing fight for racial equality in sports
• The role of sports in social justice movements
• The importance of acknowledging black contributions to baseball and America
• The role of the WNBA in promoting diversity and equality Black contributions to baseball history and culture
• The importance of representation and ownership in sports
• The impact of race and culture on sports narratives
• The significance of honest dialogue about race in sports
• The influence of Black culture on music, food, and community
• The potential for sports leagues to create alternative platforms
• The importance of self-reflection and community dialogue

Before they let us in... we built our own game. This is OUR history. And it's time we reclaim it.

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One Love.

• Coach Tre' and Johnnie

Our very first recorded guest, "Cheats" from Black Baseball Mixtape, shares invaluable insights from his extensive experience covering and promoting black baseball. Black Baseball Mixtape is a digital media platform and podcast dedicated to baseball insights and the celebration of Black culture within the sport. With "Cheats" as the lead contributor to the media outlet, it sits at the intersection of baseball and hip-hop culture.

Black Baseball Mixtape serves as a positive community and space for fans, players, and anyone who supports Black culture at every level of baseball. The platform publishes a biweekly podcast, articles via Substack, video content on YouTube, and discussions covering Major League Baseball (MLB) storylines, historical retrospectives, and cultural impact... and Mark Cheatham "Cheats" is at the forefront of THE MOVEMENT.

In this episode, 'Cheats' shares insights on the growth of black baseball culture, the importance of community, and the evolving landscape of black participation at all levels of the sport. We discuss how grassroots efforts and storytelling are shaping the future of black baseball. We explore the current state and future of black baseball, the importance of relationships in the industry, and strategies to increase black representation at all levels of the game.

"Cheats" gives us his experienced take on many issues facing black athletes and baseball today, as well as what he would do if he was given $10 million by the MLB to increase the presence of African-American fanfare and player participation. Covered Topics

• Growth of black baseball culture and media
• Community building and grassroots efforts
• Storytelling and representation in baseball
• The role of social media and content creators
• Challenges and opportunities in black baseball development
• Historical context of black participation in baseball
• Impact of youth and college baseball on diversity
• Representation in coaching and front office roles
• The influence of hip hop and culture on baseball
• Future prospects for black baseball players
• The migration of black players and changing demographics in baseball
• The impact of middle-class and underfunded youth programs on player development
• The influence of MLB's grassroots initiatives like RBI and the importance of early exposure
• The shift in scouting and recruitment practices with the rise of video and analytics
• The significance of building relationships with industry insiders for media and player opportunities
• The challenges and opportunities for black players in the modern baseball landscape
• The importance of community support and fan presence in influencing ownership decisions
• The role of media, showcases, and tournaments in player exposure and development
• The impact of economic factors and family support on access to baseball resources
• The future pathways for black athletes and media professionals in baseball

Special Guest - Quez Cantrell shares his journey as a Nashville-based musician, community builder, and baseball enthusiast. We explore the deep roots of black baseball culture, the impact of gentrification, and the healing power of the game and music.

Quez shares his journey through music, community activism, and how the sport of baseball became a therapy for grief. Alongside host, Coach Tre and Johnnie King III, he highlights the cultural significance of preserving youth sports in the Black community and the importance of representation and community engagement.

Quez shares his East Nashville upbringing, that led him to the sport and eventually to the microphone as a prolific MC and rap artist, representing his city and neighborhood of birth, to the fullest.

Here's what you'll discover on this episode:

• Quez Cantrell's background and community work in Nashville
• The history and significance of black baseball culture in Nashville
• Impact of gentrification and capitalism on local communities and sports
• The role of sports and music in healing and community building
• The importance of youth sports and grassroots efforts to revive black baseball
• The connection between music and baseball in black culture
• The influence of hip hop and popular artists on baseball culture
• The legacy of black athletes and the importance of mentorship
• The impact of sports on Black communities
• Quez Cantrell's music and community work
• The history and significance of baseball in Black culture
• The importance of representation in sports and music
• Community activism and mental health initiatives

In this episode, we explore the challenges and opportunities in youth and professional baseball, including ownership, culture, and the impact of economics on the game. We also highlight inspiring stories of redemption and the importance of authentic voices in sports media.

Coach Tre and Johnnie share personal stories and insights on how to foster a positive sports culture and support the growth of youth baseball and other sports. We explore the impact of youth sports, access disparities, and the importance of community support in developing young athletes.

We cover the story of former MLB player, Scott Spiezio, and his redemptive journey after overcoming heavy drug and alcohol abuse. Former ESPN analyst, Ryan Clark was fired from the network and we share our sincerest emotions about this topic.

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Tell us what you think about these episodes and topics, we will talk back!

This episode dives into the ongoing issues of racism in sports, the history of black baseball, and the resilience of black athletes. It highlights stories from baseball history, recent incidents, and the importance of representation and activism. In this episode, we explore the rich history of baseball uniforms, the impact of Nike's involvement, and the cultural significance of team apparel. We also reflect on personal stories of how sports uniforms foster pride, unity, and life-changing moments. In this episode, Johnnie and Coach Tre dive into the world of baseball uniforms, discussing their favorite styles, throwbacks, and the cultural significance behind team colors and logos. They also share personal stories and insights into the history of baseball apparel, highlighting how uniforms reflect team identity and community pride. Takeaways

• Racism has deep roots in baseball, from segregation to modern incidents.
• Black athletes often face racial abuse, but their resilience inspires change.
• Representation matters: having black players in major leagues is vital.
• Historical stories like the Cannon Street All-Stars highlight past injustices.
• Systemic barriers like high costs and segregation limit black participation.

Key Topics

• Racism and segregation in baseball history
• Recent incidents of racial abuse in sports
• The significance of black representation in baseball
• Stories of resilience and activism among black athletes
• The impact of systemic racism on sports opportunities History of baseball uniforms and iconic designs
• Nike's influence on modern sports apparel and uniforms
• Cultural significance of team uniforms and pride
• Personal stories of sports saving lives and fostering brotherhood
• Vallejo's contribution to sports across multiple disciplines
• Favorite baseball uniforms and why they stand out
• The cultural significance of team colors and logos
• The history and evolution of throwback jerseys
• Discussion of City Connect jerseys and fan reactions
• Personal stories about baseball apparel and team pride

In this episode, we explore the intersection of sports, culture, and social justice, highlighting inspiring stories from baseball and basketball, and discussing the importance of representation and authenticity. We explore innovative ideas to revitalize baseball, discuss the impact of social media on athletes, and share insights on how Major League Baseball can attract new audiences and diversify it's fan base. Join us for a deep dive into sports culture, community engagement, and creative strategies for growth.

On this episode we compare the major sports of MLB, NBA, NFL, WNBA, & Soccer. We also dive deep into:

• Jordan Walker's HR Derby Show
• Caitlin Clark & politics in sports
• Paige Bueckers & lack of Black female coaches in WNBA
• the Black 5's (Negro league basketball)
• World Cup Soccer (understanding the sport)
• Bo Jackson, Deion Sanders, Ocho Cinco, & Terrell Owens
• & so much more

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Picking up where we left off in Episode 4...we're still talking about All-Star Game memories.

It's the Mid-summer Classic, and we're celebrating the Black baseball legends who made every summer unforgettable.

In this episode of Stolen Bases, we take a trip down memory lane as we honor generations of Black Major League Baseball All-Stars—from the trailblazers of the 1950s and '60s to the icons of the '70s, '80s, '90s, and today's game. These weren't just great players—they were cultural icons who inspired millions, changed the game, and made us proud every time they stepped onto the field.

Whether you're a lifelong baseball fan or someone who simply loves stories about sports, family, and culture, this episode is a celebration of the players, the memories, and the summers that shaped us.

⚾ Subscribe to Stolen Bases on YouTube or wherever you listen to podcasts, and join us as we celebrate the history, culture, and future of Black baseball.

Because we're stealing more than bases... we're reclaiming history.