Jessica Mendoza joins Justin Kutcher to relive a lifetime of standout sports moments — from her gold medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics to her rise as a national broadcaster for ESPN and the Dodgers. We get the backstory behind her unforgettable collision at home plate that landed her on the cover of Sports Illustrated, and the childhood lessons from her football-coaching dad that shaped her fearless playing style. Jessica reflects on her time at Stanford, navigating elite academics while becoming one of the best hitters softball has ever seen.

She also takes us inside the Olympic Village alongside legends like Michael Phelps and Kobe Bryant, opens up about being a woman in the male-dominated world of baseball, and shares what it’s like watching Shohei Ohtani elevate the game from the Dodgers booth.

This is a raw, funny, and deeply inspiring conversation about performance, preparation, and pride.

Subscribe to catch every behind-the-scenes sports moment.

⏰ TIMESTAMPS

• (00:00:00) — Jessica joins the show + Olympic intro

• (00:05:12) — From baseball with the boys to softball stardom

• (00:12:43) — The Stanford decision and academic pressure

• (00:20:48) — That Olympic collision and Sports Illustrated cover

• (00:27:06) — Olympic Village, Kobe Bryant, and Michael Phelps

• (00:34:19) — From Dodger fan to Dodgers broadcaster

• (00:36:50) — Mendoza’s favorite Women’s College World Series memory

• (00:39:10) — Final reflections + fun moments with Justin

• 
  

  💡 KEY TOPICS

  📌 Olympic softball + 2004 gold medal legacy

  📌 Mendoza’s iconic home plate collision vs. Greece

  📌 Navigating Stanford as an elite student-athlete

  📌 Broadcasting MLB & Women’s College World Series

  📌 Inside the Olympic Village with Kobe & Phelps

  📌 Coaching influences from her football dad

  📌 Representation and resilience in male-dominated spaces

  
  

  ⚾️ About Jessica Mendoza

  Jessica Mendoza is a trailblazing athlete and broadcaster. A four-time All-American at Stanford, she won gold with Team USA softball in the 2004 Olympics. She has since become a prominent voice in baseball, covering the MLB for ESPN and calling games for the LA Dodgers. Her insights, experience, and passion for the game make her one of the most respected analysts in sports media today.

  
  

  🎙️ About The JustIn Time Podcast

  The JustIn Time Podcast brings you exclusive, in-depth conversations with the biggest names in sports and beyond. As a veteran broadcaster, Justin Kutcher shares unfiltered discussions with legendary coaches, professional athletes, and influential figures who offer behind-the-scenes stories you won’t hear anywhere else.

  
  

  🔔 Subscribe now on any major platform to never miss an episode of these timeless conversations.

  
  

  #JessicaMendoza #TeamUSA #TheJustInTimePodcast #OlympicSoftball #BehindTheScenesSports #DodgersBaseball #SportsIllustratedMoments

Few voices in sports are as instantly recognizable—or as deeply woven into the fabric of American athletics—as Joe Buck. Hall of Fame broadcaster, longtime voice of Major League Baseball and the NFL on Fox, and now the lead announcer for Monday Night Football, Joe joins us for an unfiltered, heartfelt conversation. We revisit his front-row seat to history, from calling Mark McGwire’s record-breaking home run to sharing the booth with his father, Jack Buck, and reflecting on the emotional return of baseball after 9/11. Joe opens up about the pressure of big moments, the importance of authenticity, and what it means to carry on a family legacy in sports. We also dive into the lighter side of broadcasting, mentorship, and the behind-the-scenes stories that only someone who’s “been there” can tell. If you love sports, storytelling, and the human side of greatness, this episode is for you.

⏰ Timestamps:

(00:01:00) – Justin introduces Joe Buck and their personal connection

(00:03:36) – Joe’s childhood in the booth and growing up around baseball

(00:06:13) – First memories at the ballpark and lessons from Jack Buck

(00:10:04) – Early career, maturity, and breaking into national broadcasts

(00:14:41) – Family in the booth: raising daughters and the lighter side of broadcasting

(00:16:44) – Staying calm before big games: rituals, humor, and crew camaraderie

(00:20:41) – Super Bowl prep, nerves, and focusing on the big moments

(00:21:16) – Barry Bonds at Yankee Stadium: calling the game vs. relying on notes

(00:24:48) – Broadcasting philosophy: instincts vs. analytics and the “old school” approach

(00:27:25) – Bruce Bochy, Joe Maddon, and the evolution of managing in baseball

(00:37:22) – Myths about drinking in the booth and classic Mike Shannon stories

(00:40:26) – Calling games with his dad: mentorship, guidance, and sharing big moments

(00:43:26) – Calling Mark McGwire’s record-breaking home run: behind the scenes

(00:45:35) – The pressure of making the right call on historic moments

(00:47:30) – Scripted vs. spontaneous home run calls and paying homage to history

(00:52:30) – 9/11, Jack Buck’s poem, and the emotional return of baseball

(00:56:26) – Signing autographs, fan interactions, and lessons from his father

(01:00:25) – Making mistakes on air, forgiveness, and moving forward

(01:06:42) – Partnership with Troy Aikman and building chemistry in the booth

(01:09:51) – Rapid fire: favorite World Series, most nervous moments, and best athletes seen

(01:16:41) – Greatest athletes and final reflections on career and mentorship

💡Key Topics:

📌 Joe Buck’s journey from the broadcast booth as a kid to national icon

📌 The pressure and privilege of calling sports history (McGwire, 9/11, World Series)

📌 Family legacy: lessons from Jack Buck and sharing the booth

📌 The evolution of sports broadcasting: stats, instincts, and authenticity

📌 Mentorship, mistakes, and the human side of sports media

📌 Behind-the-scenes stories with legendary athletes and broadcasters

🎤 About Joe Buck:

Joe Buck is a Hall of Fame sportscaster, the voice of Monday Night Football, and former lead play-by-play announcer for MLB and NFL on Fox. Known for his iconic calls and deep family legacy, Joe has covered some of the most historic moments in sports. His unique perspective and storytelling have made him a beloved figure for generations of fans.

🎙️ About the JustIn Time Podcast:

The JustIn Time Podcast brings you exclusive, in-depth conversations with the biggest names in sports and beyond. As veteran broadcasters, Justin brings unfiltered discussions with legendary coaches, professional athletes, and influential figures who share their remarkable journeys and behind-the-scenes stories you won’t hear anywhere else.

🔔 Subscribe now on any major platform to never miss an episode of these timeless conversations.

#JoeBuck #JustInTimePodcast #JustinKutcher #SportsPodcast #MLB #NFL #SportsBroadcasting #BaseballHistory #MondayNightFootball

This week on The JustIn Time Podcast, we sit down with Paul Biancardi—ESPN’s National Recruiting Director, 2004 Horizon League Coach of the Year, and former assistant to basketball giants like Tom Thibodeau, Rick Majerus, and Mike Jarvis. We journey through Paul’s decades-long career, from his gritty days as a walk-on at Salem State under Thibodeau, to his pivotal roles in Boston College’s legendary upsets and Ohio State’s Final Four run. Paul shares never-heard stories about coaching against legends like Dean Smith, Bobby Knight, and John Thompson, and breaks down the physical, no-mercy culture of the 90s Big East. He opens up about his transition to ESPN, how he evaluates high school talent, and the evolution of the game. If you love behind-the-scenes basketball tales, coaching wisdom, and the human side of sports, you won’t want to miss this episode. Subscribe and join us for a courtside seat to basketball history!

⏰ Timestamps:

(00:00:12) - Justin introduces Paul Biancardi and their broadcasting history

(00:05:23) - Paul’s playing days at Salem State under Tom Thibodeau

(00:12:47) - Coaching journey: From Boston University with Mike Jarvis to Boston College

(00:18:35) - The 1994 Boston College upset over North Carolina—game plan and execution

(00:25:18) - Big East battles: Facing Mourning, Mutombo, Iverson, and the era’s intensity

(00:34:42) - Prepping for legends: Dean Smith, Bobby Knight, and coaching strategies

(00:45:10) - Lessons from Rick Majerus and the art of teaching basketball

(00:58:05) - ESPN recruiting: Evaluating high school stars and changes in the game

(01:10:22) - Rapid fire: Best players, biggest hits and misses, and favorite Celtics memories

(01:20:33) - Reflections on coaching, media, and the relationships built over a lifetime in basketball.

💡Key Topics:

📌 Coaching legends: Tom Thibodeau, Rick Majerus, Mike Jarvis, and their impact

📌 Big East basketball in the 90s—physicality, rivalries, and iconic players

📌 Game planning for upsets: Boston College’s run and beating North Carolina

📌 High school recruiting: Evaluating talent, biggest hits and misses, and today’s challenges

📌 Behind-the-scenes stories: Locker room tales, coaching philosophies, and memorable games

📌 Evolution of the game: Shot clock debate, player IQ, and the rise of international talent

🏀 About Paul Biancardi:

Paul Biancardi is ESPN’s National Recruiting Director for boys high school basketball and a lead analyst for ESPN’s showcase events. A former Horizon League Coach of the Year at Wright State, Biancardi served as a top assistant at Boston College, Ohio State (Final Four 1999), and St. Louis under Rick Majerus. He’s renowned for his eye for talent, deep coaching pedigree, and storytelling ability.

🎙️ About the JustIn Time Podcast:

The JustIn Time Podcast brings you exclusive, in-depth conversations with the biggest names in sports and beyond. As veteran broadcasters, Justin brings unfiltered discussions with legendary coaches, professional athletes, and influential figures who share their remarkable journeys and behind-the-scenes stories you won’t hear anywhere else.

🔔 Subscribe now on any major platform to never miss an episode of these timeless conversations.

#PaulBiancardi #ESPN #BigEast #CollegeBasketball #Recruiting #BostonCollege #OhioState #RickMajerus #TomThibodeau #BasketballStories #JustInTimePodcast #JustinKutcher #SportsPodcast #SportsInterview #BasketballLegends

This week on The JustIn Time Podcast, we sit down with Chris Spielman—four-time NFL Pro Bowler, College Football Hall of Famer, and current Detroit Lions executive. Chris takes us behind the curtain of his storied football journey, from growing up with a legendary high school coach for a father and starring at Ohio State, to leading the Detroit Lions in tackles and helping build their current contender as a front office leader. We relive unforgettable stories: Chris’s days on the Wheaties box, his fierce battles with Barry Sanders and Bo Jackson, and the emotional decision to step away from football to care for his late wife. Chris shares powerful lessons on operating without fear, building team culture, and the importance of giving back—highlighted by his family’s $26 million cancer research fund at Ohio State. This episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and the kind of authentic storytelling only a true football lifer can deliver. Don’t miss this candid conversation with one of the game’s most respected voices.

Subscribe now for more timeless sports stories and exclusive interviews!

⏰ Timestamps:

(00:00:00) - Justin welcomes Chris Spielman; career highlights and first impressions

(00:05:30) - The importance of health after football and balancing life post-retirement

(00:09:50) - Growing up with a legendary coach as a father; early football influences

(00:13:40) - High school days: basketball, Wheaties box, and handling pressure

(00:17:00) - The college decision: Ohio State vs. Michigan, recruiting stories

(00:22:00) - Giving back: Starting a cancer research fund and family legacy

(00:28:00) - Life after loss: Remarriage, blended families, and operating without fear

(00:36:00) - Building the Lions: Draft strategy, Dan Campbell, and team culture

(00:45:00) - Instincts, toughness, and playing through pain

(00:49:45) - Inside stories: Practicing with Barry Sanders, NFL battles, and humility

(00:57:00) - Rapid-fire: Favorite games, toughest opponents, and lasting lessons

(01:02:00) - Closing reflections and gratitude

💡Key Topics:

📌 Chris Spielman’s journey from Ohio State to the Detroit Lions (Ohio State, Detroit Lions, NFL legacy)

📌 Building a winning culture in Detroit with Dan Campbell (team leadership, front office, NFL draft)

📌 Life lessons on adversity, family, and giving back (cancer research, personal sacrifice, resilience)

📌 Behind-the-scenes stories from the NFL: Barry Sanders, Bo Jackson, and more (NFL legends, locker room stories)

📌 The value of humility and authenticity in sports (teamwork, leadership, sports values)

🏈 About Chris Spielman:

Chris Spielman is a College Football Hall of Famer, four-time NFL Pro Bowler, and the Detroit Lions’ all-time leading tackler. After a standout career at Ohio State and 11 seasons in the NFL, he transitioned to broadcasting and now serves as Special Assistant to the President/CEO of the Detroit Lions. His impact off the field is equally profound, leading a $26 million cancer research fund in honor of his late wife and mentoring the next generation of athletes.

🎙️ About the JustIn Time Podcast:

The JustIn Time Podcast brings you exclusive, in-depth conversations with the biggest names in sports and beyond. As veteran broadcasters, Justin brings unfiltered discussions with legendary coaches, professional athletes, and influential figures who share their remarkable journeys and behind-the-scenes stories you won’t hear anywhere else.

🔔 Subscribe now on any major platform to never miss an episode of these timeless conversations.

#ChrisSpielman #DetroitLions #OhioStateFootball #NFLLegends #DanCampbell #SportsPodcast #JustinKutcher #SportsStories #FootballLife #BehindTheScenes #NFLHistory #LionsCulture #CancerResearch #BarrySanders #BoJackson

Join us for an unforgettable conversation with Curtis Strange, the legendary American golfer and World Golf Hall of Famer, as he sits down with Justin Kutcher for a deep dive into the stories that shaped his remarkable career. Strange, best known for his back-to-back U.S. Open victories in 1988 and 1989—the first to do so since Ben Hogan—shares candid insights from his time as a PGA Tour star, Ryder Cup competitor, and team captain. We relive the intensity of his epic playoff against Nick Faldo at the 1988 U.S. Open, explore the unforgettable team dynamics of the Ryder Cup (including his captaincy after 9/11), and hear about the emotional highs of winning alongside his Wake Forest teammates. Strange also reflects on the resilience of his family, the evolution of golf, and his transition to broadcasting, offering rare behind-the-scenes perspectives on the sport’s greatest moments.

⏰ Timestamps:

(00:00:00) – Justin introduces Curtis Strange, highlighting his back-to-back U.S. Open wins and Hall of Fame status.

(00:02:44) – Curtis reflects on choosing Wake Forest, the team culture, and playing with Jay Haas, Bob Byman, and David Thor.

(00:05:43) – NCAA Championship: Curtis recounts the dramatic 72nd hole and the team’s victory over Gary Koch and Florida.

(00:08:28) – Family influence, the loss of his father, and his relationship with his twin brother.

(00:11:34) – Curtis shares Ryder Cup stories about playing for Jack Nicklaus, Lee Trevino, Raymond Floyd, and Lanny Watkins.

(00:14:42) – Curtis details captaining the Ryder Cup, the impact of 9/11, and the patriotic atmosphere in 2002.

(00:24:35) – The pressure of the 1988 U.S. Open Playoff with Nick Faldo, the “Boston Tea Party” headlines, and the memorable final round.

(00:34:24) – The humorous story of his twin brother sneaking into the playoff and celebrating together.

(00:38:40) – 1989 U.S. Open: Curtis talks about the challenge of winning back-to-back U.S. Opens and the emotional significance for his family.

(00:43:50) – Curtis discusses moving into TV, working with legends, and learning from career failures.

(00:54:30) – Curtis recounts the “You’ll learn” interview with Tiger Woods and its aftermath.

(01:02:25) – Curtis remembers his first PGA Tour win in Pensacola and being paired with golf greats afterward.

(01:12:18) – Rapid Fire Q&A: Ryder Cup, Nerves, and Favorite Shots

(01:16:06) – Favorite Memory & Personal Reflections

(01:19:25) – Curtis shares thoughts on courage, remembering those who have battled illness, and the importance of storytelling.

💡Key Topics:

📌 Back-to-back U.S. Open victories and historic golf achievements

📌 Ryder Cup experiences: Team camaraderie, captaincy, and unforgettable matches

📌 Wake Forest NCAA Championship: Clutch moments and the foundation of a champion

📌 Transition to broadcasting: Insights from inside the booth and working with sports legends

📌 The Tiger Woods interview: Changing the mindset of golf and the impact of social media

🏌️ About Curtis Strange:

Curtis Strange is a two-time U.S. Open champion, World Golf Hall of Famer, and one of the most respected voices in golf broadcasting. With 17 PGA Tour wins and a reputation for fierce competitiveness, Strange’s influence extends from the fairways to the broadcast booth, where he continues to share his passion for the game and its stories. His legacy is defined by his historic major victories, Ryder Cup leadership, and authentic approach to sports storytelling.

🎙️ About the JustIn Time Podcast:

The JustIn Time Podcast brings you exclusive, in-depth conversations with the biggest names in sports and beyond. As veteran broadcasters, Justin brings unfiltered discussions with legendary coaches, professional athletes, and influential figures who share their remarkable journeys and behind-the-scenes stories you won’t hear anywhere else.

🔔 Subscribe now on any major platform to never miss an episode of these timeless conversations.

#CurtisStrange #GolfLegends #USOpen #RyderCup

NBA All-Star Caron Butler talks Kobe Bryant stories, Pat Riley and The Miami Heat, UConn basketball and Jim Calhoun, Kevin Durant, Gilbert Arenas, Shaq, and much more.

On this episode of The JustIn Time Podcast, we sit down with Caron Butler—two-time NBA All-Star, NCAA standout at UConn, and current Miami Heat assistant coach. Caron takes us behind the curtain of his remarkable basketball journey, from his days growing up in Racine, Wisconsin, to starring under Coach Jim Calhoun at UConn, and being drafted 10th overall by the Miami Heat. We dive deep into Caron’s unique bond with Kobe Bryant, sharing never-before-heard stories of their legendary workouts, the trust they built, and the life lessons Kobe passed on. Caron opens up about the emotional impact of being traded, the business side of the NBA, and what it meant to return to Miami as a coach. Plus, he reveals how his entrepreneurial spirit was shaped by his upbringing and how he’s building generational wealth off the court.

⏰ Timestamps:

(00:00:00) - Justin introduces Caron Butler, NBA All-Star, coach, and broadcast partner

(00:02:17) - UConn days: Coach Calhoun’s recruitment and family’s influence

(00:05:06) - Declaring for the NBA Draft and emotional departure from UConn

(00:07:33) - Becoming a lottery pick, joining Miami Heat, and signing first NBA contract

(00:13:15) - Entrepreneurial roots: early business mindset and learning at UConn

(00:17:41) - Early NBA years in Miami: young core and Pat Riley’s influence

(00:19:01) - The Shaq trade: Moving to the Lakers, and learning the business side of basketball

(00:21:33) - Joining Kobe Bryant in LA: breaking the ice and forging a brotherhood

(00:24:07) - Legendary Kobe workouts and the “blackout” training sessions

(00:27:23) - Impact of Kobe’s mentorship on Caron’s game and All-Star leap

(00:29:41) - Washington Wizards era: All-Star seasons and staying connected with Kobe

(00:31:02) - On-court rivalry and mutual respect with Kobe Bryant

(00:32:02) - Famous foul story: Kobe’s mind games and competitive edge

(00:34:56) - The day of Kobe’s passing: Atlanta memories and personal loss

(00:36:53) - Kobe’s influence on Caron’s second act, philanthropy, and family

(00:39:19) - Full circle: returning to Miami as a coach and Heat family culture

(00:42:28) - The origin of “Tough Juice” nickname and playing through pain

(00:44:26) - Rapid fire: best trash talkers and toughest matchups

(00:45:38) - Guarding T-Mac and reflections on NBA rivalries

(00:46:57) - Most memorable game: 40-point hometown performance in Milwaukee

(00:48:13) - Favorite dunk: posterizing Yao Ming

(00:49:25) - Best restaurant in an NBA city: KD’s in Oklahoma City

💡Key Topics:

📌 Caron Butler’s journey from UConn to NBA All-Star (UConn basketball, NBA Draft, Miami Heat)

📌 Behind-the-scenes stories of Kobe Bryant’s mentorship and legendary work ethic (Kobe Bryant, NBA brotherhood)

📌 Coaching philosophy, player development, and returning to Miami (Miami Heat, NBA coaching)

📌 Memorable NBA moments: guarding T-Mac, dunking on Yao Ming, and favorite team memories (NBA highlights, basketball stories)

🏀 About Caron Butler:

Caron Butler is a two-time NBA All-Star, NCAA All-American at UConn, and currently serves as an assistant coach for the Miami Heat. Caron’s 14-year NBA career included stints with the Heat, Lakers, Wizards, and more.

🎙️ About the JustIn Time Podcast:

The JustIn Time Podcast brings you exclusive, in-depth conversations with the biggest names in sports and beyond. As veteran broadcasters, Justin brings unfiltered discussions with legendary coaches, professional athletes, and influential figures who share their remarkable journeys and behind-the-scenes stories you won’t hear anywhere else.

🔔 Subscribe now on any major platform to never miss an episode of these timeless conversations.

#CaronButler #KobeBryant #NBAAllStar #MiamiHeat #UConnBasketball #JustInTimePodcast #JustinKutcher #SportsPodcast #NBAStories

Unlock legendary Duke basketball stories, Coach K insights, unforgettable NCAA moments, ACC rivalries, and exclusive behind-the-scenes ESPN broadcasting tales with Jay Bilas—ESPN’s lead college basketball analyst, former Duke Blue Devil, and Final Four veteran—on this must-listen sports podcast episode.

Jay Bilas—ESPN’s lead college basketball analyst, former Duke Blue Devil, assistant coach, and practicing attorney joins the podcast. Jay’s journey from LA to Durham under a then-unknown Coach K is the stuff of basketball legend, and today he shares stories you won’t hear anywhere else. We dive deep into the early days of Coach K, the brotherhood behind Duke’s rise, and the unforgettable battles with ACC greats like Len Bias, Michael Jordan, and Mark Price. Jay opens up about the heartbreak and triumph of Duke’s first Final Four run, the inside story of the legendary 1992 Kentucky game, and what it was like to witness LeBron James as a high school phenom.

⏰ Timestamps:

(00:01:51) – Jay’s recruitment: Choosing Coach K over other legendary coaches and the decision to attend Duke

(00:07:49) – Facing Len Bias, Michael Jordan, and ACC legends; what made the league and those rivalries special

(00:17:21) – 1986 Final Four run: From freshman struggles to national title contention and the experience of losing the championship

(00:20:29) – Why so many Duke players returned as coaches; Coach K’s mentorship and helping players beyond basketball

(00:22:24) – Jay’s early broadcasting experience: Working the 1984 Olympics, learning the ropes, and behind-the-scenes stories

(00:27:45) – Transition to broadcasting: Reuniting with old colleagues, memorable moments as an assistant coach, and Digger Phelps stories

(00:29:16) – Coaching at Duke: The 1990 blowout loss to UNLV, the 1991 upset, and lessons from Coach K

(00:34:40) – The pain of losing the 1986 title game and the emotional toll of coming so close

(00:40:27) – Inside “The Shot”: 1992 Duke-Kentucky, drawing up the play, practice memories, and Coach K’s empathy for Kentucky

(00:48:52) – Duke’s floor slap tradition: Origins, meaning, and how it became a national meme

(00:51:28) – ESPN’s Big Monday crew: First broadcast with Bill Raftery and Sean McDonough, chemistry, and favorite moments

(01:03:55) – Broadcasting LeBron James’ first high school game and the evolution of high school basketball coverage

(01:12:11) – Rapid fire: Best game witnessed, favorite postgame spots, all-time Duke starting five, and more personal favorites

💡 Key Topics:

📌 Jay Bilas’s Duke career and the rise of Coach K (Duke basketball, Coach K, ACC history)

📌 Behind-the-scenes stories from Duke’s Final Four and legendary ACC rivalries (Final Four, NCAA Tournament, ACC basketball)

📌 The making of “The Shot” and the 1992 Duke-Kentucky game (Christian Laettner, Grant Hill, NCAA upsets)

📌 Reflections on LeBron James, Len Bias, and the evolution of the college game (LeBron James, Len Bias, NBA Draft, basketball legends)

🏀 About Jay Bilas:

Jay Bilas is a former Duke Blue Devil, NCAA Final Four participant, assistant coach under Mike Krzyzewski, and one of ESPN’s most respected college basketball analysts. Known for his sharp insights, storytelling, and advocacy for student-athletes, Jay has shaped how fans experience the game—on the court and in the broadcast booth.

🎙️ About the JustIn Time Podcast:

The JustIn Time Podcast brings you exclusive, in-depth conversations with the biggest names in sports and beyond. As veteran broadcasters, Justin brings unfiltered discussions with legendary coaches, professional athletes, and influential figures who share their remarkable journeys and behind-the-scenes stories you won’t hear anywhere else.

🔔 Subscribe now on any major platform to never miss an episode of these timeless conversations.

#JayBilas #CoachK #DukeBasketball #ESPN #CollegeBasketball #NCAATournament #TheShot #SportsPodcast #JustinKutcher #ACC #GrantHill #BillRaftery #SportsStories

This week on The JustIn Time Podcast, we sit down with Mark DeRosa—16-year MLB veteran, current MLB Network analyst, and Team USA manager. Mark’s journey from Ivy League standout at Penn to playing alongside Hall of Famers with the Atlanta Braves, and now leading America’s best on the international stage, is packed with incredible stories and wisdom. We reminisce about collecting baseball cards, childhood idols like Don Mattingly, and those pinch-me moments facing legends like Randy Johnson and Greg Maddux. Mark opens up about mentoring Bryce Harper as a rookie, the art of building team chemistry, and the thrill (and heartbreak) of managing Team USA in the World Baseball Classic. You’ll hear candid tales from inside iconic clubhouses, lessons from Chipper Jones and Bobby Cox, and why Mark’s passion for the game—and its next generation—remains as strong as ever.

⏰ Timestamps:

(00:00:00) - Justin welcomes Mark DeRosa; they bond over Don Mattingly and baseball card collecting

(00:03:52) - Mark’s prized photo with Don Mattingly and childhood card collecting stories

(00:06:21) - Early fan moments: meeting Yankee players, the impact of player-fan interactions

(00:12:47) - First MLB at-bat vs. Randy Johnson; “pinch me” moments in Yankee Stadium

(00:15:43) - Facing Hall of Famers: Bobby Cox’s tough assignments, early struggles, and learning to belong

(00:21:35) - Braves clubhouse culture, Chipper Jones’ mentorship, and learning to add value

(00:25:09) - Reinventing his swing: Texas, Michael Young, and the turning point in Mark’s career

(00:26:59) - Greg Maddux stories, clubhouse pranks, and the art of pitching

(00:30:53) - Mentoring Bryce Harper, rookie lessons, and earning your place in the clubhouse

(00:34:36) - Buster Posey’s arrival and recognizing future stars

(00:36:06) - Yankees vs. Braves in the World Series; Mark’s dual loyalties and Judge admiration

(00:38:42) - Comparing Aaron Judge and Barry Bonds; Bonds as the most dominant opponent

(00:41:42) - 2009 World Baseball Classic: playing with Jeter, David Wright, and Jimmy Rollins

(00:43:27) - Managing Team USA: Trout vs. Ohtani, WBC heartbreak, and building a winning culture

(00:54:05) - Bringing back infield/outfield drills and team bonding at the WBC

(00:55:38) - Venezuela game: team meeting, Trey Turner’s grand slam, and the power of chemistry

(00:57:15) - Learning to manage on the fly, trusting instincts, and the challenge of leading stars

(01:03:27) - Family influence, choosing Penn, and the decision between football and baseball

(01:04:44) - Losing his father, playing one last year for himself, and the meaning of legacy

(01:06:27) - Rapid fire: favorite athletes, Big East basketball, and jersey numbers

(01:10:14) - Favorite positions, shortstop memories, and realizing his role in the big leagues

(01:13:31) - Reflections on leadership, Team USA’s future, and the dream of winning it all

💡Key Topics:

📌 Mark DeRosa’s MLB journey: Atlanta Braves, Texas Rangers, and beyond

📌 Mentoring Bryce Harper and building veteran leadership

📌 Legendary teammates and stories: Chipper Jones, Greg Maddux, Jimmy Rollins

📌 Behind the scenes of Team USA and the World Baseball Classic

🧢 About Mark DeRosa:

Mark DeRosa played 16 seasons in Major League Baseball, contributing to teams like the Atlanta Braves, Chicago Cubs, and San Francisco Giants. An Ivy League graduate from Penn, he’s now a respected MLB Network analyst and serves as the manager for Team USA, bringing his wealth of experience and leadership to the next generation of stars.

🎙️ About the JustIn Time Podcast:

The JustIn Time Podcast brings you exclusive, in-depth conversations with the biggest names in sports and beyond. As veteran broadcasters, Justin brings unfiltered discussions with legendary coaches, professional athletes, and influential figures who share their remarkable journeys and behind-the-scenes stories you won’t hear anywhere else.