5.22.24

Episode 9

Former MLB All-Star Jair Jurrjens' Journey From Curacao to Co-Owner

Baseball United Co-Owner Jair Jurrjens joins the show to discuss his love for the game, his career in MLB, and his international playing experience. He talks about the ups and downs of baseball and the importance of perseverance. Jurrjens shares his journey from growing up in Curacao and being influenced by his family and Andrew Jones to playing in the MLB and representing the Netherlands in international tournaments. He also discusses the growth of baseball globally and the impact of international tournaments like the World Baseball Classic. Jurrjens highlights the unique atmosphere and camaraderie at Baseball United and the importance of putting ego aside for the greater good of the mission. He also dives into the impact of Baseball United and the future of the league. He emphasizes the importance of government partnerships and support in order to grow the league and provide opportunities for young players. Jurrjens also talks about the current state of baseball in Curacao and the challenges faced by young players in balancing school and sports. He shares advice for aspiring baseball players and expresses his gratitude to the fans in the Middle East and South Asia. The final segment features a surprising question that Jurrjens had never encountered before.

What We Discuss

• 0:30 Introduction
• 3:20 Growing up in Curaçao
• 4:17 Early coaching influences
• 7:25 Biggest challenge in MLB career
• 8:49 Representing the Netherlands in the World Baseball Classic
• 14:45 Opening doors for Curaçaoan players
• 17:36 Comparing the Baseball United showcase to other leagues
• 19:15 Fan reception in the Middle East
• 20:03 Motivations for becoming a Baseball United co-owner
• 23:57 Sacrifices made by Baseball United leadership
• 28:07 Belief in the league's future success
• 31:00 Ownership group putting egos aside for the greater mission
• 35:25 Vision for the league over the next decade
• 38:33 Importance of government partnerships for league progress
• 43:13 Sports and school rules in Curaçao
• 45:58 Baseball United's potential impact on Curaçaoan baseball
• 51:20 Advice for younger players
• 54:22 Message to fans in the Middle East
• 56:20 Experience on reality TV