How Bob Riker Built Brother Rice into a Michigan Baseball Powerhouse | The Up & In Show

Bob Riker never planned on being a coach — and certainly never imagined becoming one of the most respected high school baseball coaches in the country. In this episode of Up & In, host Anthony Ranaudo sits down with Bob Riker, longtime head baseball coach at Brother Rice High School in Michigan, to unpack the journey behind one of the most successful programs in the state. From his own playing days, to getting drafted by the Tigers, to being told it was “his time to give back,” Riker explains how culture, standards, and people — not wins — became the foundation of everything he built. They talk: Growing up in Michigan and finding baseball late Playing multiple sports and being a late bloomer Getting drafted by the Tigers and what pro ball taught him Why mentorship shaped his entire coaching philosophy Building Brother Rice’s culture through accountability and tough love Playing freshmen, earning roles, and ignoring “status” Why developing people matters more than chasing championships “Leave it better than you found it” — and what that actually looks like If you’re a coach, parent, or player looking for real lessons on leadership, development, and building something that lasts — this episode delivers. Subscribe for more baseball conversations, player development, and leadership stories from inside the game. #UpAndInShow #BaseballPodcast