6.21.24

Episode 13

Inside the Dugout with Longtime MLB Coach John McLaren

In this episode of the Baseball United Podcast, host Liam Skiffington sits down with longtime MLB coach John McLaren. With over five decades of experience in professional baseball, John has coached around the globe and impacted countless players' careers. Currently the manager of the Arabia Wolves, John reflects on what made players like Roger Clemens, Ichiro Suzuki, and Barry Larkin so great, and discusses his experience coaching with Lou Piniella. John also talks about his time coaching in three World Baseball Classics. He shares why he believes the league will thrive, highlights the unique leadership at Baseball United, and expresses his excitement for being a part of this groundbreaking initiative to bring professional baseball to the Middle East and South Asia.

What We Discuss

• 0:30 Introduction
• 1:43 John’s baseball journey
• 3:45 Transition to coaching
• 7:20 MLB coaching debut with the Blue Jays
• 10:31 The greatness of Roger Clemens
• 12:55 Lessons from Lou Piniella
• 15:18 The Ggreatness of Ichiro
• 21:11 Importance of preparation
• 25:01 Thoughts on the All-Star Showcase in Dubai
• 28:26 Unique leadership at Baseball United
• 33:12 Teaching baseball in Europe with Barry Larkin
• 43:14 Nurturing local talent
• 43:44 Coaching in three World Baseball Classics
• 46:03 Baseball in the Olympics
• 47:50 Baseball’s unifying power
• 51:27 Message to the fans
• 52:34 Kash Shaikh’s fearless leadership
• 55:00 Excitement of being part of Baseball United