The Road to the Big Leagues (with Coach James Baker)

from Laughter Included · host Johnny Mack & Ricky G

In this episode of The Mack & G Show, we sit down with James Baker, a former professional pitcher turned coach, who takes us through his incredible baseball journey. From getting cut in high school to playing seven seasons of pro ball—including time with the San Diego Padres organization—James knows all about perseverance. Now, as the head coach at The Governor’s Academy and co-owner of Baker O'Flynn Sports, he’s mentoring the next generation of athletes. We dive into everything from the grind of minor league baseball to coaching philosophy, player development, and what it takes to succeed at the next level. Highlights Include: • Overcoming setbacks in high school baseball • Making it to pro ball & minor league life • Coaching philosophy and training young athletes • Recruiting differences between college & prep school • The balance of coaching, business, and family If you’re a baseball fan, coach, parent, or just love a great underdog story, this episode is for you! Timestamps 00:00 Intro and Should Boston fans boo the Canadian anthem? (Four Nation's Face-off) 01:13 Introducing James Baker: From Boxford to Pro Baseball 04:55 Getting cut in high school & the turning point 12:23 The inspirational story of Tim Bransfield 16:26 Making it to the College World Series 23:20 Minor league reality: The grind of pro baseball 46:05 Coaching at Colby College (NESCAC) 50:56 Coaching at Governor's Academy 1:00:42 Velocity, control, or movement - which is most important? 1:07:28 James coaching philosophy 1:10:25 Favorite New England sports moments: Pedro & The Snow Bowl 1:12:10 Upcoming baseball camps & how to train with James Links & Mentions: A Life Interrupted - A Moving Memoir by Tim Bransfield Baker O'Flynn Sports on Facebook Baker O'Flynn Sports on Instagram BOS Program Guide Pedro Throws Don Zimmer to the Ground The 1999 All Star Game was Epic The Governor's Academy Baseball The Wall of Gaylord Wichita Baseball Follow us: Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Twitter Join our Newsletter Visit the Mack & G Store

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Feb 20, 2025

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This episode was published on February 20, 2025.

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