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The Show Before the Show Podcast

In The Show Before the Show, MiLB.com writers Tyler Maun and Sam Dykstra break down Minor League Baseball's biggest storylines with guests from around the Minors, including top prospects, managers, player development experts and other newsmakers. They'll also have a weekly look at what's going on outside the lines with business of the Minors expert Benjamin Hill.

Episodes

Phillies No. 3 prospect Justin Crawford talks about his hitting ability, his time in Triple-A and how he handles the Trade Deadline as a player. Also, the group recaps Erie’s first Moon Mammoths game, Ben previews his upcoming trip to the West and Sam and Tyler look ahead to big transactions coming in the next week.

It’s been one of the most loaded weeks for prospect news so far this year. Sam and Tyler check in from the madness by reviewing the All-Star Futures and 2025 MLB Draft, each of which took place last weekend in Atlanta. They also preview the Erie Moon Mammonths’ first game on Saturday.

It’s a big weekend in baseball and the world of prospects. Sam and Tyler preview the All-Star Futures Game by drafting their own squads from the players participating in Atlanta on Saturday. The pair also looks at the main storylines from the 2025 Draft set to begin Sunday. In the opening segment, Ben shares the story of Iowa team photographer Dylan Heuer, who is deaf.

Ben brings details of Erie’s new Moon Mammoths identity, reviews his trip to visit Knoxville, Hub City and Columbus and interviews Lauren Matthews about the Spartanburgers' food options. Also, Sam breaks down MLB Pipeline's new Top 100 prospects ranking and looks at the recently announced All-Star Futures Game rosters.

Sam and Ben review their recent trips to Frisco, Knoxville and San Antonio and bring along interviews with Missions manager Luke Montz and Smokies president Chris Allen.

Nationals No. 5 prospect Alex Clemmey talks about his first-half adjustments with Wilmington, his Rhode Island roots and last season’s trade from the Guardians. Also, Ben, Sam and Tyler review last week’s visit to Somerset, Sam and Tyler break down the Rafael Devers trade and the gang plays another round of Name That Dude in the final segment.

The Somerset Patriots hosted Ben, Sam and Tyler for The Show Before the Show Night on June 11. The guys share interviews from the doubleheader against Portland and bring listeners along for a fun day at TD Bank Ballpark.

Ben shares details from his most recent trip to the Carolinas and interviews Columbia team president Brad Shank. Also, Sam and Tyler look at promotions for first-base prospects Jac Caglianone and Bryce Eldridge, and the entire groups previews Somerset’s The Show Before the Show Night coming next Wednesday.

Ben, Sam and Tyler choose their favorite Minor League home hats from all four levels as part of the New Era Clash of the Caps contest. Also, the gang discusses John Oliver’s pick of the Erie SeaWolves, Ben previews next week’s road trip and Sam and Tyler look at the Check Swing Challenge’s arrival in the Florida State League.

Ben, Sam and Tyler look at some of the most interesting stats and moments of the early Minor League season. Also, Ben shares Reading player interviews with Braeden Fausnaught and Robert Moore, and Sam and Tyler discuss MLB Pipeline’s updated Top 100 prospects ranking.

Rays prospect Aidan Smith talks with Sam about his 2024 trade from the Mariners, and Des Moines Register reporter Tommy Birch chats with Ben about the importance of local Minor League coverage. Also, Ben, Sam and Tyler look at John Oliver’s segment about Minor League promos, and Ben recaps his Midwest road trip.

Orioles No. 5 prospect Vance Honeycutt talks to Sam about the start to his first full season in Aberdeen and the adjustments he’s made at the plate. Also, Ben chats with Tyler to preview his first multi-stop road trip of the year and the rest of his itineraries for the 2025 campaign.

Ben, Sam and Tyler celebrate the 500th episode of The Show Before the Show with plenty of stories and interviews, and Josh intros the entire pod with a special edition of Ghosts of the Minors. The gang also shares a big announcement involving a promotion coming to Double-A Somerset on June 11. Tickets for that game can be purchased here.

Syracuse GM Jason Smorol chats with Ben about the team’s recent Jim Morrison promotion following a documentary that posits The Doors frontman is alive in the New York city. Also, Sam and Tyler look at hot starts for top prospects across the Minors.

Winston-Salem president/GM Brian DeAngelis chats with Ben about what it’s like to host a prom during a game, and Mets prospect Chris Suero talks with Sam about his New York City roots and hot start with High-A Brooklyn. Also, Josh goes over the edge in Ghosts of the Minors.

Ben, Sam and Tyler discuss prospect assignments and on-field promotions before the Minors’ second Opening Day. Harrisburg broadcaster Terry Byrom joins the show ahead of his final season in the booth, and Josh delivers an enigmatic edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Ben, Sam and Tyler are joined by Josh Jackson and Kelsie Heneghan to make Minor League and prospect predictions for the 2025 season. Sam and Tyler also highlight some Triple-A matchups to watch for the first weekend of the season.

Nationals No. 5 prospect Seaver King chats from West Palm Beach about his first Spring Training, his time at Wake Forest and more. Also, the full gang is back together (plus Josh!) to talk Copa de la Diversión and the Maine Candlepins, and Josh unearths another edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Broadcaster Rylee Pay talks to Ben and Tyler about her new role with Triple-A Tacoma, Sam checks in from the start of Spring Breakout and Josh emerges with another Ghost of the Minors.

Director Carson Lund shares details behind the making of his new baseball move, “Eephus”. Also, Ben and Tyler talk about new alternate identities across the Minors, Sam has stories from Spring Training and Josh needs a new pair of shoes in Ghosts of the Minors.

Royals pitching prospect Steven Zobac discusses his first Spring Training in Major League camp and his past as a two-way player at Cal. Also, Ben, Sam and Tyler get caught up in Minor League news, both on and off the field, and Josh hops to it in Ghosts of the Minors.

With pitchers and catchers reporting this week, Sam and Tyler preview Spring Training through a prospect lens. Also, Ben shares recent promotion unveils from across the Minor Leagues, and Josh crows about the latest Ghost of the Minors.

Double-A Hartford continues to come up with alternate identities that capture national attention. GM Mike Abramson shares two new ones in the Thunder Chickens and Leaf Peepers. Also, Ben, Sam and Tyler recap a full offseason of Minor League rebrands, and Josh coughs up another edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Racer Riley Neal's car is sponsored by the Winston-Salem Dash this weekend for the 2025 Cook Out Madhouse Classic at Bowman Gray Stadium. Neal joins the podcast, along with club president Brian DeAngelis, to discuss the unique partnership. Also, Ben, Sam and Tyler look at the longest championship droughts in Minor League Baseball, and Josh comes clean in Ghosts of the Minors.

Sam and Tyler break down MLB Pipeline’s updated 2025 Top 100 prospects ranking, and Cardinals right-hander Tink Hence (No. 77 on that list) discusses offseason preparation and his work to improve his durability. Also, Ben looks at the Akron Galley Boys, and Josh sends salutations from the latest edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

The Show Before the Show journeys to the Eastern League with interviews about the Binghamton Bathtub Donkeys identity and Erie’s new mascot book. Also, Ben shares which celebrities have Minor League pasts, Sam and Tyler break down new prospects lists and Josh harvests another edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Ben, Sam and Tyler share their 2025 resolutions for the baseball industry as well as others for their professional work and personal lives. Also, Josh lays low in the latest edition of Ghosts of the Minors, and the group takes a cinematic look at the career of a former Minor Leaguer.

Ben, Sam and Tyler take turns sharing their favorite memories of 2024 from Minor League Baseball and the larger baseball world. Also, Ben details one Athletics prospect’s video-game prowess, Sam breaks down Caleb Durbin’s prospect profile and Josh shines in the latest edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

No. 24 Red Sox prospect Connelly Early chats with Sam and Tyler about his offseason prep and the lessons he learned from his successful first full season. Also, Ben details the Lake County Captains’ refreshed look, Sam and Tyler preview the Winter Meetings and Josh ends on a high note in Ghosts of the Minors.

A lot has happened across the Minor Leagues since our last episode. Ben and Sam chat about rebrands, renamings and refreshes announced by MiLB clubs over the last few weeks. The cohosts also share what they’re thankful for from the 2024 season ahead of Thanksgiving in the United States.

Ben shares details of the Smokies’ official name switch to Knoxville in the Southern League, and Sam and Tyler chat about big weekend coming up in the Arizona Fall League. Also, Josh shares the dirt in the latest edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Ben brings details of the new Oklahoma City Comets identity that will land for the 2025 season, and Sam shares excerpts from interviews with Drake Baldwin (Braves) and Edwin Arroyo (Reds) from the Arizona Fall League before discussing more AFL news with Tyler.

Ben details the Hickory Goat-Karts alternate identity coming in 2025, Sam and Tyler chat about the Arizona Fall League, Tommy Troy stops by to talk about his AFL turnaround and Josh understands the assignment in Ghosts of the Minors.

The postseason clip shows continue! The Show Before the Show reshares previous interviews with more players from this Major League postseason including Jazz Chisholm, Alec Bohm, Tarik Skubal, Adley Rutschman, Bobby Witt Jr. and Vinnie Pasquantino.

The gang is off the next two weeks, but the Major League postseason is very much on. The podcast revisits interviews with stars of this year’s playoffs from back when they were Minor League prospects, including ones with Brandon Nimmo, Kyle Higashioka, Will Smith and Pete Alonso. More talks with similar players coming on next week’s edition of The Show Before the Show.

Salt Lake broadcaster Tony Parks shares memories of the final game at Smith’s Ballpark ahead of the Bees’ move to a new facility nearby next spring. Also, Tyler recaps the Triple-A National Championship, Ben reviews Crooked Numbers, Sam previews the Arizona Fall League and Josh detonates an explosive edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Double-A Birmingham broadcaster Curt Bloom shares stories from the Barons' improbable run to a Southern League title this week. Ben, Sam and Tyler also discuss more Minor League postseason news and results, and Josh checks in with the latest Ghost of the Minors.

Ben details the Columbus Clingstones identity coming to the Southern League in 2025, and Mississippi director of group sales David Kerr helps bid adieu to the M-Braves with stories from Pearl. Also, Josh goes deep into history in the latest edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Toledo broadcaster Matt Melzak speaks to Ben about the legacy of longtime Mud Hens voice Jim Weber. Also, Ben previews September promos, Sam looks at Single-A and High-A storylines from the 2024 season and Josh takes a knee in the latest edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Top Tigers prospect Max Clark talks to Ben from High-A West Michigan about what it’s like to be a player wearing alternate-identity uniforms. Also, Ben shares stories from his trip to the Midwest, Sam and Tyler discuss late-season prospect callups and Josh dusts off the latest edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Top Phillies prospect Aidan Miller talks to Sam about his first full season, his recent turnaround and his 2023 Draft experience following a broken hamate injury that spring. Also, Ben previews his upcoming trip to Michigan and other parts of the Midwest, and Josh delivers an epic edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Sam and Tyler chat about the updated Top 100 overall and Top 30 organizational prospect rankings for MLB Pipeline. Also, Ben talks with Durham VP of baseball ops Mike Birling about his tenure with the Bulls, and Josh gives an honest account in the latest edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Sam and Tyler chat about how prospects and farm systems were affected by this year’s Trade Deadline, and Ben returns from his North Carolina road trip with stories from Down East, Durham and more. Finally, Josh finds good fortune in the latest edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Ben and Tyler look at some recent Minor League Crooked Numbers, Sam previews the All-Star Futures Game and 2024 Draft and Josh releases a sick edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

During a short holiday week, Sam jumps in quick to chat about Futures Game rosters, MLB Pipeline’s updated Top 100 prospect ranking and James Wood’s callup to the Nationals.

Ben returns from his most recent road trip with stories from stops in Arkansas and Northwest Arkansas. Also, Ben and Sam share interviews with Rome PA announcer Larry Gardner and Negro Southern League Museum director Anthony C. Williams, and Josh makes himself at home in Ghosts of the Minors.

Kelsie and Sam chat with Tyler about their coverage of MiLB at Rickwood Field, Willie Mays’ death and their road trip from Daytona Beach to Birmingham. They also share an interview with Jacksonville general manager Harold Craw that was recorded one day after the Jumbo Shrimp did their own Negro Leagues celebration. Finally, Ben reports the road following stops to Rome, Rocket City and Memphis.

Former Salt Lake broadcaster Steve Klauke died this week at 69 years old. Fellow voices from around Minor League Baseball share their memories of Klauke and talk about the legacy he leaves behind in Utah and beyond. Also, Ben and Sam share itineraries for their swings through the South, and Josh strikes fear in all with the latest edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Ben, Sam and Tyler asked for fake Minor League team names, and listeners responded in droves. The cohosts comb through their favorite submissions before picking and designing the 2024 winner. Also, Josh rattles off another edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Rancho Cucamonga broadcaster Mike Lindskog talks about the club's BBQs alternate identity. Also, Ben shares three more new looks coming to Minor League teams soon, the podcast hosts asks for creative Minor League team names from listeners and Josh extracts the latest edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Sam and Tyler discuss the hottest prospect performances at Triple-A, including those of Junior Caminero and Coby Mayo. Also, Ben interviews author Erick Vickrey about his book covering a 1946 Spokane bus disaster, and Josh shares another noble edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Sam shares an excerpt from his interview with top pitching prospect Paul Skenes, and Sam and Tyler discuss the Pirates right-hander’s early dominance. Also, Ben talks about his favorite bobbleheads and interviews Jersey Shore’s Greg Giombarrese and Gianna Fiocco about the club’s new song “ShoreTown is Your Town” that was released this week. Finally, Josh shares the fruits of another edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Sam calls in from Indianapolis to chat with Ben and Tyler about his visit to see top pitching prospect Paul Skenes. Also, Ben talks with Wichita general manager Matt Hamilton about the club’s new Chili Buns alternate identity, and Josh plays another round of Ghosts of the Minors.

Erie SeaWolves president Greg Coleman details the team ring after last year's Eastern League title. Also, Ben previews his 2024 road trips, Sam and Tyler talk about Jackson Holliday’s ascent to the Majors and Josh proves his mettle in Ghosts of the Minors.

Happy second Opening Day! Ben, Sam and Tyler are joined by Kelsie Heneghan and Josh Jackson for a second draft around Double-A, High-A and Single-A teams. Also, Ben looks ahead to next week’s eclipse, Sam details early prospect assignments and members of the MLB Pipeline and MiLB.com crew explain why they’re excited for the 2024 season ahead.

To celebrate the start of the Minor League season, Ben, Sam and Tyler build their own Triple-A franchises using categories like main identities, ballparks and mascots. Also, Sam and Tyler discuss notable prospects opening the season at the Minors’ top level, and Josh puts in the work in Ghosts of the Minors.

Emma Tiedemann, Jesse Scaglion and their baby daughter Lucy join the podcast to share stories of working as a growing Portland Sea Dogs family. Also, the group looks at coming Double-A promotions for 2024 and recaps the best Spring Breakout performances. Josh fortifies the episode with the latest edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Nationals No. 3 prospect Brady House checks in from Spring Training. Also, Sam previews this week’s Spring Breakout series, Ben looks at Triple-A promotions and Josh takes a swing at the latest edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Rays No. 4 prospect Xavier Isaac chats with Sam about his first full season, second Spring Training and sleeper status in the 2022 Draft. Also, Ben and Tyler discuss Spokane’s King Carl campaign, Sam has the details on the Spring Breakout roster reveal and Josh glues together the latest edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Ben, Sam and Tyler look at alternate identities for Winston-Salem and Great Lakes and take a certain left bovine turn into summer collegiate ball too. Also, Winston-Salem GM Brian DeAngelis gives more details on his club’s Tobacco Beetles look, and Sam and Tyler chat about early prospect performance in Spring Training. Finally, Josh revisits Babylon in Ghosts of the Minors.

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp promo director David Ratz discusses his club’s upcoming jersey featuring famous characters and images in the public domain. Also, Ben, Sam and Tyler talk about the role of speed in today’s game, and Josh brings the fire in Ghosts of the Minors.

Bowling Green general manager Kyle Wolz chats with Ben about his club’s new Cavemen alternate identity. Also, Sam and Tyler look at Spring Training prospects to watch, and Josh goes bust in Ghosts of the Minors.

MLB.com's Michael Clair shares the story of Hudson Valley's connection with Bhutan baseball, and Reading's Jake Starr talks ballpark updates with Ben, Sam and Tyler. Also, Josh opens a box o’ joe in the latest edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Sam and Tyler discuss MLB Pipeline’s updated Top 100 prospect ranking, Ben looks at the King Cakes identity coming to Biloxi in 2024 and the gang interviews MiLB logo designer Ryan Foose of Fooser Studios, who was involved in the Jersey Diners branding. Also, Josh brings a spark to Ghosts of the Minors.

Ben, Sam and Tyler each present their five favorite Minor League or baseball-related things from the 2023 season and dive into the pop-culture world in this year-end podcast. Also, Josh hollers about the latest Ghosts of the Minors.

Ben, Sam and Tyler talk about the new Spring Breakout series coming in 2024 and the Oklahoma City Baseball Club identity revealed this week. Also, Akron merchandise manager Luke Trese discusses the anniversary of the flooding of the RubberDucks team store and the club’s apparel comeback.

On this week’s episode, Ben shares the new look of the Northwest Arkansas Naturals, and Sam and Tyler chat about Winter Meetings moves, including Juan Soto’s trade to the Yankees and the Rule 5 Draft. Also, Braves No. 14 prospect David McCabe stops by to talk about his first full season and the Arizona Fall League, and Josh cleans up in Ghosts of the Minors.

Eastern League Home Clubhouse Attendant of the Year Jon Weinberg takes us behind the scenes of the Bowie Baysox and the successful Baltimore Orioles farm system. Also, Ben shares the story of how Italian chef Alessandro Buccino ended up working at the ballpark in Lehigh Valley, Sam and Tyler preview the Winter Meetings and Josh takes a hike through history in Ghosts of the Minors.

Ben, Sam and Tyler interview each other about their careers – both where they are now and how they got there – on a Thanksgiving episode of the Minor League Baseball podcast. Also, Josh swings by for his own unique version of Ghosts of the Minors.

Columbia broadcaster John Kocsis Jr. discusses his book “Play-by-Play from the Minors: Profiles of Baseball Broadcasters from Scranton to Yakima,” Tyler and Ben look at the end of title droughts and Josh spreads his wings in another Ghosts of the Minors.

Red Sox prospect Corey Rosier talks to Sam from the Arizona Fall League about his two trades and his progress in 2023. Also, Ben shares stories from a recent trip to Triple-A Columbus, the gang looks at the MLB postseason and Josh is in the tank for another edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

No. 11 Padres prospect Graham Pauley chats with Sam about his early time in the Arizona Fall League and his breakout 2023 season in the San Diego system. Also, Ben talks about his Indianapolis visit, the group discusses the MLB postseason and Josh lays gloomy stonework in Ghosts of the Minors.

Ben chats about a Mike Veeck documentary on Netflix, Tyler and Sam look at new champions at the High-A and Single-A levels, Biloxi manager Mike Guerrero speaks about a loaded roster and Josh propagates a new edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Ben is on the road for his final road trip of 2023 with early stops in Nashvile and Bowling Green, and he interviews Hot Rods assistant general manager Ashlee Wilson on this week’s episode. Also, Tyler and Sam talk September callups, and Josh makes a household name out of a Minor Leaguer of yore.

Nationals top prospect Dylan Crews chats about his insane 2023 calendar year, the national title game with LSU and the start of his career in the Washington system. Also, Ben shares stories from Montgomery and Lehigh Valley, and Josh drinks in another edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Lake County blind broadcaster Allan Wylie and Captains director of broadcasting Cole Liggett join the podcast to discuss Allan’s time in the booth. Also, Ben recaps his recent road trip through New York and Pennsylvania, and Sam breaks down the new MLB Pipeline Top 100 prospects ranking.

Sam and Kelsie bring interviews from the MLB Pipeline Game of the Month in Nashville, including one on the art of the callup with Sounds manager Rick Sweet. Also, The Other Boys of Summer director Lauren Meyer talks to the show about her Negro Leagues documentary, and Josh presents a seasoned edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Rochester GM Dan Mason talks to the podcast about the Red Wings’ Intentional Walk fundraiser. Also, Ben recaps his trip to Biloxi, Tyler and Sam break down the 2023 Draft and Josh ascends to the peak of Ghosts of the Minors.

USA Baseball 18U National Team manager Michael Cuddyer talks PDP League play about the game’s next generation, Ben reviews the first half of the MiLB season, Sam previews the All-Star Futures Game and Josh enumerates his options in the latest edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Ten Minor League broadcasters share their favorite calls from over the years and take listeners behind the scenes. Also, Ben previews his trip to the South, and Josh is up to his usual antics in Ghosts of the Minors.

Triple-A Louisville catcher Chuckie Robinson talks to Sam about his hot start, his 2022 Major League debut and the effect the ABS system has on his defensive work. Also, Ben shares more tales from the northwest, and Josh blusters through another edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Ben brings stories from his first road trip of the season to the Pacific Northwest along with interviews with D-backs prospects Dylan Ray and Conor Grammes. Also, Sam and Tyler preview an update to MLB Pipeline’s Top 100 prospect ranking, and Josh travels to non-international waters in Ghosts of the Minors.

It’s a new theme episode of The Show Before the Show! Minor League execs from Durham, Reading, Rochester, West Michigan and Wisconsin take Ben and Tyler through ballpark renovations for the 2023 season.

Top 30 Brewers prospect Cam Robinson talks to the podcast about his first Major League Spring Training trip and his 2022 season in which he led the Minors in saves. Also, Tyler and Sam discuss Noah Song’s arrival in Phillies camp, and Ben has details on the Akron Devil Strips.

After working in the Minors for 30 years, broadcaster Johnny Doskow joins the podcast to talk about his jump from the Triple-A Sacramento booth to Oakland. Also, Josh plays favorites in the latest edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Daytona emcee The Young Professor (Matt Graifer) talks about his approach to an entertaining gig. Also, Ben previews the return of Ballpark Guides, Tyler and Sam look at a big weekend in the Arizona Fall League and Josh takes his seat in Ghosts of the Minors.

Hudson Valley general manager Tyson Jeffers talks to the podcast about the club's fall-themed identity coming to the field in 2023. Also, Ben shares details of new looks in Charlotte and Erie, Tyler and Sam preview a big weekend ahead in the Arizona Fall League and Josh launches another edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

High-school teammates, Top 100 prospects and Nationwide Road to the Show ambassadors Anthony Volpe and Jack Leiter make guest appearances to talk about their history and future. Also, Tyler and Sam preview the MLB postseason through a rookie lens, and Ben looks ahead to the MiLB-Marvel logo partnership.

Tyler wraps up what he saw from his time as a play-by-play announcer at the World Baseball Classic qualifiers in Germany, Ben brings stories from Erie and Rochester and Sam previews the prospect-filled Arizona Fall League following last week’s roster release.

Pensacola director of communications Daniel Venn discusses their fan-created jerseys that were unique to each player. Also, Ben brings details on the St. Paul ball pigs, Tyler and Sam break down MLB Pipeline’s Top 100 prospect list and Josh sees red in the latest Ghosts of the Minors.

Tyler, Sam and Ben remember Vin Scully following his passing, preview next week’s Field of Dreams Game and recap a Trade Deadline filled with blockbusters. Cedar Rapids general manager Scott Wilson also stops by the show to discuss preparations for next week’s event in Dyersville, Iowa.

In the midst of the All-Star break for both the Majors and Minors, Sam and Tyler recap the Futures Game and Draft and preview the second half for prospects. Also, Ben shares Seigo Masabuchi's story in St. Paul, and Josh cracks open the safe of another edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Ben and Sam talk with Asheville assistant GM Hannah Martin about a bear visitor to McCormick Field. Also, Tyler and Sam discuss midseason clinches, and Josh takes to the friendly skies of Ghosts of the Minors.

Modesto Nuts exec Veronica Hernandez discusses her place as the first Latina GM in Minor League Baseball. Also, Ben reviews his Texas trip, and Tyler and Sam discuss Adley Rutschman’s ascension to the Majors.

Ben calls in from Texas during his first Minor League road trip of the season after making his first stop in Sugar Land. Also, Tyler and Sam review the ABS system as it comes to the PCL, and Josh breaks out the shades for another edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

No. 8 Guardians prospect Logan Allen shares stories from his development as he closes in on Cleveland from Double-A Akron. Also, Ben announces his first road trip of 2022, Tyler and Sam look at the Minor League Players of the Month for April and Josh saunters into another edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Vancouver president Andy Dunn talks about the Canadians' homecoming for the first time since 2019. Also, Ben looks at Copa luchador identities, Tyler and Sam break down a pair of 14-strikeout starts and Josh provides some pulp in Ghosts of the Minors.

Tyler, Sam and Ben look ahead to Triple-A Opening Day on Tuesday and pick their favorite identities among the 2022 Copa clubs. Also, San Antonio president Burl Yarbrough stops by to discuss his club’s hosting of a Mexican League series, and Josh heads to Civics class in the latest Ghosts of the Minors.

Tyler, Sam and Ben break down rules changes sweeping across the Minors in 2022 and take a look at the High-A promotional calendars for the season ahead. Tyler and Sam also go over MLB Pipeline's Top 100 prospect ranking following its release.

Tyler and Ben celebrate the return of historic league names (from the International League to the California League) to the Minor League landscape, while Sam checks in from his Spring Training trip to Florida.

Frisco president/GM Victor Rojas talks about the RoughRiders' plans to honor a local Negro Leagues team from the last century. Also, Tyler, Sam discuss prospects in early spring, Ben tells the tale of Bud Fowler and Josh has a spicy edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Drive general manager Eric Jarinko joins the Minor League Baseball podcast to discuss his club’s 2022 celebration of the Greenville Black Spinners, a local organized Black team from the city’s history. Also, Tyler, Sam and Ben look at two new food-based club identities in Peoria and Akron.

Tyler, Sam and Ben discuss Rachel Balkovec's historic hire as manager of the Low-A Tampa Tarpons, and the trio of co-hosts also hold a Minor League Hat Draft in celebration of National Hat Day. Meanwhile, John Katz talks about his move from the Columbia front office to Woking FC in England, and Josh brings another shocking edition of Ghost of the Minors.

Outgoing Iowa owner Michael Gartner surprised employees with a sizable check before he left. Scott Sailor and Brent Conkel have details. Also, Tyler, Sam and Ben bring some New Year’s resolutions for the 2022 season ahead, and Josh peels back some historical layers in Ghosts of the Minors.

Bowling Green Hot Rods general manager Eric C. Leach talks to Ben and Sam about what the club is doing to help residents of the local community after tornados devastated the area last week. Also, Ben and Tyler detail their recent Ballpark Guides on Delmarva and Quad Cities, and Josh takes another dip into history with Ghosts of the Minors.

Ray Ortiz and Jonathan Bravo celebrate Fresno's 10th Taco Truck Throwdown, coming this Saturday, by going into the history of the event and the importance of the taco in California’s Central Valley. Also, Tyler and Sam review the early days of the Arizona Fall League, and Josh adds a dash of old-timey humor in Ghosts of the Minors.

Stockton president Pat Filippone discusses the club's celebration of the Asparagus Capital of the World. Also, Ben brings stories about the return of baseball to Double-A Somerset following serious storm damage, Tyler and Sam present MiLB.TV picks that fans can watch for free and Josh gets down right sartorial for the latest Ghosts of the Minors.

Lansing’s Jesse Goldberg-Strassler talks to the Minor League Baseball podcast about the #DemoCritiqueDay initiative aimed at giving tips to broadcasters of all experience levels. Tyler and Sam predict which prospect could receive equal hype to Wander Franco upon his future Major League debut. Ben breaks down how a foul ball caused a fire-alarm emergency in Jupiter. Josh keeps listeners guessing with another episode of Ghosts of the Minors.

Ben and Sam talk to High-A Wisconsin broadcaster Chris Mehring about the club’s weekend-long Udder Tuggers promotion, Tyler breaks down prospect standouts at the Olympic qualifiers in Florida and Josh returns with a rock-solid edition of Ghosts of the Minors.

Myrtle Beach president/GM Ryan Moore talks to the Minor League Baseball podcast about how his club’s beer bats went viral and how the Pelicans are now selling the ballpark items through his personal Venmo. (Hint: It involves a lot of beer.) Also, Ben discusses how Hudson Valley found a fun solution to a high-tech problem with its videoboard over the weekend, Tyler and Sam recap storylines from Week 2 of the Minor League season and Josh Jackson returns with his throwback “Ghosts of the Minors” game-show segment.

Tyler and Sam are joined by Josh Jackson and Kelsie Heneghan to preview the 2021 Major League season from a prospect and rookie perspective. The gang makes predictions on AL and NL Rookies of the Year, which clubs will be most reliant on their prospects and much more. Also, Ben stops by to discuss Vancouver’s ballpark arrangement with Hillsboro that will be in place to begin the Minor League campaign next month.

Baltimore Orioles No. 6 prospect Gunnar Henderson joins the Minor League Baseball podcast to discuss his time in camp, his basketball background and the future of his rebuilding organization. Also, Tyler and Sam preview the remaining Spring Training roster battles, and Ben talks about bringing the joys of Minor League Baseball to new audiences.

No. 28 overall prospect Max Meyer joins the Minor League Baseball podcast to break down his first trip to Marlins Spring Training, his ascent to become last year's third overall pick and his multi-sport background in Minnesota. Also, Tyler, Sam and Ben celebrate the podcast’s 300th episode by looking back on what has happened in Minor League Baseball in the last six years and what they are most excited to see next.

Triple-A St. Paul broadcaster Sean Aronson calls into the podcast to help introduce one of the newest clubs to the Minor League landscape with discussions on the organization’s history, new partnership with the nearby Minnesota Twins and legendary promotional schedule. Also, Tyler and Sam preview which prospect-laden Spring Training camps are worth following and break down the new affiliations of the National League West.

Mariners Triple-A manager Kristopher Negrón talks to the Minor League Baseball podcast about his expectations for the role, his recent experience as a player and his excitement for leading a roster filled with top Seattle prospects. Also, Tyler and Sam break down recent trades, and Ben shares stories of Hank Aaron’s brief time in the Minors.

Tyler Maun, Sam Dykstra and Benjamin Hill come together to look back on the year that was in Minor League Baseball – what was lost, what they missed, what they learned and what they’re looking forward to most about the year to come. (Trust us, it ends on an optimistic note.) Happy holidays from everyone at the podcast and MiLB.com!

Tyler and Sam preview the 2020 Major League Baseball postseason by drafting separate squads of top prospects prepared to leave their marks on the game’s biggest stage. Also, Ben Hill recaps the 2020 MiLB Innovators Summit, and MiLB.com’s Gerard Gilberto discusses the long road that has taken baseball lifer Guillermo Quiroz to a managerial job at Class A Kannapolis.

With the news now official that the 2020 Minor League Baseball season has been canceled, we hear from a dozen top prospects as well as every MiLB.com writer on what makes the Minor Leagues so special to all of us.

Houston Astros No. 8 prospect Korey Lee calls into The Show Before the Show to talk about how water polo may have made him a better catcher and what it's like to play as himself in MLB The Show 20. Also, Benjamin Hill brings Minor League book recommendations, and Josh Jackson tells the tale of the long-gone Fort Worth Cats.

The Show Before the Show cohosts Tyler Maun and Sam Dykstra drafted their own prospect teams on the April 23, 2020 episode of the Minor League Baseball podcast. Now, the two MiLB.com writers sim their matchup, using the Hartford Yard Goats and Rocket City Trash Pandas for their rosters, on the video game MLB The Show 20 and commentate over the action. The download information for last week's episode is below.

Third-ranked Cincinnati Reds prospect Tyler Stephenson joins the podcast to talk about how he's staying sharp and what it was like being in Spring Training as a member of the 40-man roster. Also, Benjamin Hill shares the promos that would have been from this week, and MiLB.com's Michael Avallone gets into his story of how Dave Hoskins broke the Texas League color barrier.

Sam and Tyler discuss some early news from Spring Training camps in Arizona and Florida. Plus, Ben breaks down what went into the jump in 2019 Minor League attendance figures.

MLB.com's No. 98 overall prospect Simeon Woods Richardson joins the The Show Before the Show to discuss his first Spring Training with the Toronto Blue Jays following last year's trade from the New York Mets. Also, Tyler and Sam break down the top farm systems for pitching, and Ben details how Jacksonville is honoring arguably the most famous toy car of all time with a coming 2020 promotion.

Cardinals outfield prospect Trejyn Fletcher joins the show to talk about his road to becoming the highest Draft pick out of a Maine high school. Also, Tyler and Sam break down MLB.com's new Top-100 prospect ranking, and Ben looks back at four newly defunct Minor League stadiums.

No. 13 Atlanta Braves prospect Tucker Davidson joins the first episode of 2020 from the Rookie Career Development Program in Miami. Also, Tyler and Sam present some farm system resolutions, and Ben brings a story of how one former Trenton intern became an owner in Visalia.

Chicago Cubs No. 3 prospect Brennen Davis joins the show to discuss his successful season at Class A South Bend and his transition to full-season ball. Also, Tyler and Sam preview Winter Meetings transactions, and Ben breaks down the new Worcester Red Sox and Fort Myers Mighty Mussels identities.

Fourth-ranked Mets prospect Matthew Allan joins the show to discuss his whirlwind first year in pro ball plus a playoff recap, Benjamin Hill and more.

Tyler and Sam recap a busy Trade Deadline that saw several prospects move to new organizations before 4 p.m. ET on July 31. Also, Ben is back from his road trips to Las Vegas and Fresno. He shares a story about one very special promotion in Jacksonville.

No. 7 Arizona Diamondbacks prospect Alek Thomas joins The Show Before the Show to talk about his Futures Game experience and how he uses his status as a second-round pick as motivation. Also, Tyler and Sam preview the Trade Deadline, and Ben brings tales from his trips to Syracuse and Auburn.

Newest Red Sox prospect Marcus Wilson calls into the podcast to discuss his trade from the D-backs, Tyler and Sam break down Will Benson's four-homer game with Class A Lake County and Ben discusses Omaha's embrace of the Potholes.

It's the first day of the 2019 Minor League Baseball season! Tyler Maun, Sam Dykstra, Kelsie Heneghan and Josh Jackson celebrate by providing their predictions for best lineups, pitching staffs, overall teams and so much more. Benjamin Hill also has his picks for most intriguing promotions for the year to come. Padres No. 2 prospect MacKenzie Gore joins the show to preview his second full season and his move to Class A Advanced Lake Elsinore. (It's a packed show, people.)

Tyler and Sam wrap up their trips to Arizona and Florida, Ben has all the details on the new Copa de la Diversion identities for 2019 and San Diego Padres relief prospect Todd Van Steensel takes us through the arduous life of a Minor League free agent.

New York Yankees No. 8 prospect Trevor Stephan talks from Tampa about his time in Major League camp and his expectations for the 2019 season. Sam brings more stories about his Spring Training time in Florida, and both he and Tyler look back on the 200-episode run of The Show Before the Show.